Toledo City Paper Digital Edition: September Issue

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FREE • september 2021

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Wedding Guide Honeymoon stories and venue ideas, p7

2021 Dining Guide Good eats in the Glass City, p16

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September 1 • September 30

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September 1 - 31, 2021 • Vol. 24 • Issue 08

Adams Street Publishing Co.

Marketplace changes

What’s one thing everyone should do in Toledo before they die?

The Summer of Road Repairs

Mark I. Jacobs (mjacobs@toledocitypaper.com) Enjoy a Handy Andy at the Green Lantern on Broadway.

Editorial

Assignment Editor: Jeff McGinnis

(mcginnis@adamsstreetpublishing.com)

See a show at the Stranahan.

Contributing Writers: Curtis Deeter, Jennifer Ellison, Ashley Hill, Erin Holden, Kiera Jacobs, Julie Pompa, Jon Ruggiero, Lila Waterfield and Johnny Hildo.

Interns:

A Day of Little Blessings

Photo courtesy: Little Blessings

Alexandra Bugaj, Nolan Cramer, Keira Jacobs, Evan Laslo, Araceli Olvera and Mary Racette

Advertising

Account Executives: Suzanne Bell (sbell@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Tube the Maumee River.

Bonnie Hunter (bhunter@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Explore the Toledo Art Museum AND the parks.

Jenny Leach (jleach@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Enjoy our Toledo Zoo & Aquarium.

Gabbie Huff (ghuff@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Explore Downtown Toledo and spend a day at the Art Museum.

Art/Production

Production Manager: Imani Lateef (imani@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Eat a slice of Gino’s Pizza.

Senior Designer: Leah Foley

(leah@adamsstreetpublishing.com)

Photo by Matthew Sackmann

Co-publisher/ Chief Financial Officer

toledocitypaper.com

Doobie Brothers’ anniversary tour to play Zoo

Go to a Mud Hens game.

Digital Media Nathaniel Light (digitalmedia@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Go see Middlegrounds Metropark.

Digital Marketing & Social Media Margot Jacobs (margot@adamsstreetpublishing.com) TMA or swim in the Centennial Quarry.

Administration

Accounting: Robin Armstrong (rarmstrong@toledocitypaper.com) A concert at the Toledo Zoo Amphitheater.

Distribution Karena Adams (distribution@adamsstreetpublishing.com)

Photo courtesy: thedoobiebrothers.com

Publisher/Editor in Chief

Collette Jacobs (cjacobs@toledocitypaper.com) Have a picnic lunch in the gazebo at Walbridge Park.

UPDATES IN LOCAL BUSINESS

Great Black Swamp Brewing has begun construction of a new facility in South Toledo at 2248 Tedrow Rd., just off of Byrne. The new establishment will be Black Swamp’s third in the area after their facilities in Perrysburg and Central Toledo, and will feature a tavern, an outdoor beer garden and a restaurant, as well as allowing views of the production facility. greatblackswampbrewing.com Toledo has to wait a bit longer for the opening of Bobcat Bonnie’s at 152 N. Summit St. in Fort Industry Square downtown. The Detroit-based restaurant chain planned to open its new Toledo location in time for early September’s Solheim Cup, but a lack of construction materials has delayed things for a few weeks. The owners now hope the restaurant/bar/arcade will be open by the end of September or early October.

Experience rowing for fitness in an engaging environment at Boxhouse, a fitness center at 3205 W. Central Ave. The ROW Studio is a group rowing location with state-of-the-art rowers and classes led by experienced instructors. Search “The ROW Studio” on Facebook.

For a unique bite, seek out Baba’s Eats, the Toledo area’s first Middle Eastern Taco food truck. Putting a unique twist on several classic flavors, the truck offers vegetarian options, as well. Find where they’ll be each week at facebook. com/babaseats419.

Food truck fans should also keep their eyes peeled for Lupita’s Comida, a new Mexican mobile eatery offering tacos, burritos, quesadillas, Quesabirria pizzas and more. facebook.com/lupitascomida419

Hungry and looking for variety? The new Graze! Shared Kitchen in Perrysburg may be the perfect destination.

Located at the Shoppes at 1121 Louisiana Ave., Graze! features fare from multiple restaurants, including Big Knuckle Burgers, Oasis Eats and the Sandwich Factory. grazeamerican.com Memorable eating — indoors or out— can be yours with a call to Destination Picnic. Serving Toledo and surrounding areas unique, custom picnic services at a variety of local landmarks and locations, or even in your own home. destinationpic.com Looking for a different kind of brewery experience? Try 60cc Brewing, now open at 2113 N. Reynolds Rd. near Schmucker’s. The kid-and-dog-friendly brewery features 10 rotating taps of craft beer. Open Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. 60ccbrewing.com HEAVY Beer Company and Metroparks Toledo have announced a collaboration to create HEAVY Wheelhouse, a new brewery, taproom, coffee shop and event space located in Oak Openings Metropark at the head of the Beach Ridge Bike Trail. The new venue will open in November. heavy.beer Two much-loved restaurants on W. Alexis Rd. suddenly announced this past summer they were closing permanently. In July, the Facebook pages of both Ahmed’s Steakhouse at 1923 W. Alexis and Sardini’s Good Time Eatery at 535 W. Alexis stated that “Due to circumstances beyond our control we will be closed for good. We thank you for all your years of coming in to eat with us.”

Know of any changes in the area? Send them to editor@adamsstreetpublishing.com

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 2 p.m. 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. © 2021 by Adams Street Publishing Co. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without written permission of the publisher.

3 Local Instagrams You Should Be Following!

Also publishers of: Member

Audited by

2021

BEST TOLINEATIODNSO NOM

Head to toledocitypaper.com and nominate your winners! Don’t cash in your chips until you’ve had your say! www.toledocitypaper.com

@fullerarthouse: Art gallery based in downtown Sylvania highlighting some of the best local & regional artists. The gallery curator & owner, Dani Fuller, has an amazing eye with in depth knowledge of the art world. She also offers fine art classes! Give @fullerarthouse a follow!

@deano2225: Local artist specializing in photorealism, murals & more. You literally can’t tell whether you’re looking at a high quality photograph or one of his paintings.

September 1 • September 30

@DirtyKics;: Local black and white photographer capturing objective portraits that catalogue humanity. Follow along, you won’t be disappointed.

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Take a dip, Fido!

Deb’s Body Jewelry & More

Your place for tattoos, jewelry, home decor, tobacco accessories and much, much more!

Dragon’s Body Art Tattoo Studio 2600 Woodville Road Northwood, OH 43619

419.691.3100 DEBSBODYJEWELRYANDMORE.COM

Jeff’s Hauling & Cleanup

Call him President Kral

Toledo Police Chief George Kral has garnered a new title: President of the Ohio Association of Chiefs of Police. Kral began his one-year term on June 1 after previously serving one-year terms as first and second vice president. First established in 1928, the Ohio Association of Chiefs of Police is a nonprofit group aimed at “continuing professionalism and innovation among police executives.” oacp.org.

• Storm Cleanup • Vacant Properties • Rental Trashouts • Business/Warehouses • Garages • Basements • Attics Garage/ Rummage Sale Leftovers • And More!

Site Selection names Toledo #1

Toledo’s commitment to sustainability was recognized in the July 2021 issue of Site Selection magazine, which named our city #1 in its Sustainability Rankings. The list, designed to spotlight countries and communities committed to environmental progress, considers factors such as the creation of the Toledo-Lucas County Sustainability Commission and First Solar’s manufacturing complex. Toledo ranked first among U.S. cities, just ahead of Grand Rapids, MI and Cincinnati.

Toledo has a Vision: End traffic deaths

(419) 508-3782 Call Toledo’s #1 Junk Removal Experts to see what we can cleanup for you!

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Does your pupper love to play in a cool swimming pool? Want to raise money for the Glass City Dog Park in the process? The ninth annual Jack’s Pooch Plunge will be held on Sunday, September 12 at Plummer Pool in Sylvania’s Burnham Park. The event will be divided into groups by dog size, with small dogs up to 30 pounds swimming from 12:30-1:45pm, medium sized dogs from 30-65 pounds swimming from 2-3:30pm, and large dogs from 65 pounds and up swimming from 3:45-5:15pm. All proceeds will benefit Glass City Dog Park, which was Toledo’s first off leash dog park when it opened in 2014. $5 per dog. 6930 Maplewood Ave., Sylvania. glasscitydogpark.org

September 1 • September 30

Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz announced this June that the city has joined the Vision Zero Network, a national initiative aimed at reducing traffic deaths. The move comes as Toledo faces one of the deadliest years for traffic fatalities in its history, as the city is on pace to double its average number of annual road deaths, according to Commissioner of Transportation Sean Burnett. Vision Zero is a collaborative effort among cities around the country to organize resources to end traffic fatalities. Toledo is the first Ohio city to join the program.

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CITY POLITICS Blue collar town Labor and City Politics

By Johnny Hildo

LABOR IS STRONG FOR TOLEDO Happy Labor Day! Here in the swamp, this is a big deal.

We’re a place where even executive level working folks are organized. If you don’t control your own wages, hours, and working conditions, you’re working class and can bargain collectively. It’s not just the major employers like Jeep and GM that are unionized. There are solo shops in T-Town with union contracts.

School administrators, fire chiefs, and police command? Unionized.

Ditto nurses at St. V’s. Truck drivers, bus drivers, school teachers, refuse workers, maintenance workers, electricians, pipe fitters, postal workers, HVAC installers, public sector, private sector, all sectors.

We have a long and proud labor history. The labor agitation that begat the UAW started, at least in part, in North Toledo. The earliest organizing in the building trades started here. Unskilled laborers and migrant workers in local farm fields fought for their dignity across the region. Working folks struggled and died for labor rights here

Solidarity on parade

The struggle continues. Our Labor Day parade puts much larger cities to shame, with thousands of workers from all walks of life celebrating the right to collective bargaining.

The union contracts they enjoy protect their right to a grievance process for unfair treatment on the job. Wages are guaranteed. Hours of work are stipulated. Working conditions are improved. Pensions are provided.

T-Town’s highly skilled workforce is a selling point for the region’s economic development, and union contracts contribute mightily. Well paid, well trained workers are secure, happy, and productive workers.

And union contracts don’t just protect workers in union shops. A rising

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tide does, in this case anyway, lift all boats. In order to compete for the best workers even non-union shops must try to pay better wages and provide better benefits.

Labor candidates

What has this to do with city politics, you ask?

Unions have an outsized influence on local elections. Union endorsements are coveted by candidates. The larger unions, like those representing electricians, pipe fitters, laborers, teachers, and teamsters, can give large campaign contributions. Even smaller unions can provide volunteers as boots on the ground going door to door or putting stamps on envelopes.

And unions can encourage their members to vote for endorsed candidates through mailings, meetings, and phone calls.

Unions endorse candidates they believe will best protect their interests once in office. And make no mistake.

Elected officials have major influence over unions as well.

The relationship goes in both directions. Laws can support collective bargaining, union wage scales, and better working conditions, or not.

Public investments can employ skilled, trained, and well paid labor, or not. In short, government can support the growth and development of labor and labor rights, or not.

Unions understand this, and throw their support accordingly.

And that’s a good thing for us all.

Think “all boats rising” above. As government supports labor, labor improves the lives of all workers. The result is a more prosperous, more livable, and all around better community.

So happy Labor Day, Toledo. Cook out, take a swim, and raise a glass to the laboring women and men who fought for your ability to do so.

September 1 • September 30

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MINDING OUR BUSINESS Jennifer Choconta.

Dar Vida

Local Toledo business aids Colombian Humanitarian Efforts

By Kiera Jacobs Dar Vida, a local Toledo charity organization, uses all the proceeds from their sales of Colombian coffee to aid people in need.

Owners Henry and Jennifer Choconta married 31 years ago in New York. Jennifer lived in Toledo when she was a child, while her dad worked to raise money to take his family to Uruguay for missionary work. Henry and Jennifer moved to Toledo eight years ago. “Toledo was a good place for us when I was growing up, and has proven to be great for my family now,” Jennifer said.

Jennifer and Henry have been providing help to Colombian people across different shelters and centers for years. Henry was born and raised in Colombia, one reason why they feel the urge to help the Colombian people.

“We have always been involved in many different countries and different human efforts,” explains Jennifer.

“There was a lot of political unrest in Colombia, and farmers had to be relocated to the coffee belt region. We met

a group of farmers there and visited several of their farms to meet them. It felt like it was an opportunity to love them.”

Since then, Henry and Jennifer have partnered with 37 female coffee farmers in the coffee belt of Colombia and have also developed partnerships there with the Revive Retreat Center, Hope of Life Shelter for the Elderly and a drug rehab shelter for men.

Give Life

Dar Vida sells organic coffee that is cultivated by female Colombian farmers and then shipped to the United States. Any proceeds from sales are returned by the pair to the farmers, as well as the Center and shelter that they are partnered with.

The brand Dar Vida, meaning “Give Life,” started back in 2017. “We went through a whole vision framing,” says Jennifer. “We had to figure out what we were doing and then we were finally incorporated as a non-profit that year.”

Dar Vida coffee owners Henry and Jennifer Choconta.

Find Dar Vida coffee at darvidacoffe.com

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by Nghi Vo Till The End

by CC Sabathia Everyone In This Room Will Someday Be Dead

by Emily Austin Thanks For Waiting: The Joy (& Weirdness) Of Being A Late Bloomer

by Doree Shafrir

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Dar Vida took off slowly, and it took some time for them to make a big leap as an organization. The first step was finding a way to get the coffee in Colombia transported to a bigger facility.

Then, they had to find a way to get it shipped.

Jennifer says that they were doing a lot of word of mouth at first but then set up a website and social media. From there, they connected to churches and started selling Dar Vida coffee in church cafes. “Proceeds are distributed based on needs,” says Jennifer. “Different issues come to our attention. There’s not a lot of government funding for elderly shelters there (in Colombia). A lot of people are poor and can no longer take care of their elders because they can’t afford it.

So they put their relatives out on the street, and a lot of older people are on the streets begging.”

Jennifer and Henry learned of two women in Colombia who rented a small house and began taking people in off the street. The Chocontas took over the rent payment for the house and found a farm that could provide shelter for three times the number of people.

After raising money to pay rent at that location for a year, they are now able to call it a shelter. “We want these women to be the owners of that shelter,” says Jennifer. “We are just here to support them.”

September 1 • September 30

First harvest

Since starting Dar Vida, Henry and Jennifer have formed their own company and planted their own coffee in Colombia. They are expecting to have their first harvest in October. Henry and Jennifer spend a lot of time in Colombia themselves and are directly involved in their work, touching base with those who support their mission.

Their future goal for Dar Vida is simple: Keep helping more Colombian people. They are currently looking for partners who have the same mindset of helping these people get to the next step. Moving forward, they are hoping Dar Vida eventually hfunds shelters for men, women and families.

For more information or to purchase Dar Vida coffee, visit darvidacoffe.org. Also, Dar Vida coffee is now sold at Sofo’s Italian Market and Kazmaier’s Market in Perrysburg.

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FALL 2021 EST. 1997

WEDDING GUIDE T O L E D O

C I T Y

PA P E R

Honeymoons, how we met and killer venues for your big day!

Full inter toledocit views at ypaper.c om

Weddings & Bridal Showers avocadoandcheese.com (419) 360-0015

Assembled by Erin Holden, Contibuting Writer

Honeymoon Stories}

E l l i e

&

B r a n d o n

Where did the two of you decide to go, and why did you make that choice?

We went out west and visited Zion National Park, the Grand Canyon and Lake Powell. Our final two nights were in Las Vegas. We had Thailand booked and paid for, but with COVID restrictions, we were forced to cancel and got our money back. On our one year anniversary, we took our honeymoon (finally) and wanted to see as much as we could in one trip. We love adventures, so a beach resort just wasn’t for us.

K a u f m a n

mountainside pub near Zion that had the best local brewed beers and burgers!

What were some of your most memorable experiences?

We didn’t - we planned it ourselves!

The most memorable experiences were our hikes. Our favorite was the four-mile round trip kayak excursion to Antelope Canyon from Lake Powell. Once you get there, you park your kayaks and hike another 2.5 miles. The slot canyons were some of the most mesmerizing views. Horseshoe Bend was another breathtaking moment as well.

Which hotels did you stay in, and what did you like about them?

Any advice for future honeymooners?

Did you go through a travel agency?

We stayed in small hotels near the parks, but splurged and stayed in a suite at The Venetian in Vegas! I loved the convenience of being so close to everything at the Venetian, but the small hotel in Zion had its own quaint charm with a gorgeous view at sunrise.

Were there any local spots that made your trip special?

My biggest advice is to research the national parks and make sure that you prepare for the hikes you choose! It’s very dry out west, so HYDRATE.

Continued On Page 8

Our favorite restaurant was a cool

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September 1 • September 30

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L i n d s e y

TOLED O

&

Where did the two of you decide to go, and why did you make that choice?

Photo Credit: Holly Omlor Photography

Fall in Love... Again Rated #1 in the USA for Romance

With the uncertainty of COVID-19 regarding international rules and restrictions, Cody and I decided we wanted our honeymoon to be in the U.S., where we had a bit more understanding of pandemic expectations and requirements. We decided to do an East Coast tour honeymoon with a focus on Vermont and Maine. We started our first night driving to Eastern Pennsylvania just to get closer to our first Airbnb.

We specifically wanted to travel up the coast of Maine.

Our first stop on our honeymoon was in Middletown Springs, VT. My husband is a huge Lord of the Rings fan, and we found a replica hobbit house in a Shire.

It was the most incredible experience!

We then left Vermont and stayed in York, a coastal town in Southeastern Maine. From there, we traveled up to Boothbay Harbor, ME, an adorable fishing town with AMAZING seafood.

How did you plan your trip?

We didn’t use a travel agency, but we spent a few nights looking everything over, mapping our route and planning our stays through Airbnb and VRBO.

Did you fly or drive?

Cody and I drove just so we had a bit more control on where and how we could travel during our honeymoon.

What did you love most about your accommodations?

With the Vermont Hobbit Shire Airbnb, we LOVED that it felt like you stepped into the actual movie. The inside of the hobbit home was filled with replica Lord of the Rings items, and the hosts

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September 1 • September 30

Wa l l a c e

had over 6,000 hours put into building, designing and creating the home, making it really feel as if you were in one of the movies.

In York, ME, we stayed in an AMAZING hotel called the York Harbor Inn (yorkharborinn.com), seven buildings over the York Harbor. Every building is a beautiful New England-style home that is filled with history. We stayed in the Chapman Cottage that was built in 1899 and has been beautifully kept; it was comfortable while still maintaining its historical roots. Our room featured a jacuzzi tub with two fireplaces for a really relaxing bubble bath!

In Boothbay Harbor, ME, we stayed at the Ocean Point Inn and Resort (oceanpointinn.com). We loved that this inn had its own pier that we could walk down and enjoy. It also had its own restaurant on site, making for an easy walk to dinner. There was also an amazing firepit directly next to the bay, provisioned with s’mores and beautiful views.

Advice for couples who are thinking of honeymooning in these spots:

If you’re looking to spend your time in one location without traveling further, I would HIGHLY recommend York, ME. It has everything you would need to fill your days, like amazing restaurants, shops and coastal beaches. With its beautiful New England architecture and atmosphere, it feels as if you’re stepping back in time and it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Continued On Page 10

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PRIVATE DINING ROOM AVAILABLE LUNCHEONS, DINNERS, SPECIAL OCCASIONS NEW HOURS CLOSED MON-TUES FOR PRIVATE PARTIES OF 15 OR MORE.

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CATERING AVAILABLE

The Black Pearl is experienced and licensed to offer catering services for any venue or scale.

2021

BEST O D E L TOOMINATIONS N

Get ready to roll! It’s time for Toledo City Paper’s 2021 Best of Toledo Nominations!

Which local people, places and plates have hit the jackpot with you in the past year? Head to toledocitypaper.com and nominate your

favorites starting September 1! Nominations will run through October 15!

Don’t cash in your chips until you’ve had your say!

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September 1 • September 30

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September 1 • September 30

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Toledo Country Club.

5 Venues for a Killer Reception}

Heather Downs Country Club.

3910 Heatherdowns Blvd.

419-385-0248. heatherdowns.com Heather Downs Country Club weddings serve up to 250 to 300 guests with a full-service experience that will require less work when it comes to wedding planning. The catering, bar, linens and chairs are provided in-house and the staff will also help with setting up your placement cards, lighting, centerpieces and more. If you’ve ever had to do all of this yourself for an event, you know how much work it is! You and your family deserve to relax on the day of your wedding. Plus, the private Grand Ballroom that overlooks the Club’s pristinely kept grounds will be an unforgettable experience for you and your guests.

3949 River Rd. 419-385-1762. toledocountryclub.com Toledo Country Club can accommodate up to 300 guests, with a main dining room and the scenic River Room, which has an adjoining deck and patio overlooking the outdoor dance floor and the Maumee River.

Surrounded by the Club’s timeless style and stealing a quiet moment with your partner on the patio as your friends party below, it’s not hard to imagine why so many people have chosen this venue for their receptions. Another perk: The Club also has a staff to help you execute all the little details that make a reception memorable, down to a personalized menu courtesy of their executive chef.

Oliver House.

27 Broadway St. 419-243-1302. mbaybrew.com Another downtown venue that encompasses the best Toledo has to offer, Maumee Bay Brewing Company’s Oliver House provides a unique experience. The historic venue has room for up to 250 guests, with catering and planning services included.

According to many happy brides who’ve left reviews on The Knot, working with the coordinator makes for a seamless experience, and there are several different spaces to choose from depending on your guest count.

Whether you decide on a simple function at The Cafe or a big soiree at The Warehouse, you can rest assured that the staff at Oliver House know what it takes to throw a great party.

The Toledo Club.

235 14th St. 419-254-2981. toledoclub.org For a downtown venue that makes you feel transported to another time, The Toledo Club is the venue for your reception. The dark wood accents and turn-ofthe-century architecture lend a level of class to an event that isn’t easy to match, but it’s certainly not a stuffy relic— the staff keeps up-to-date on wedding trends to personalize each couple’s experience.

The culinary service at this club sets it apart from many other venues, as well as the photo ops in this distinctive historic setting. See a virtual tour that will wow you on The Toledo Club website.

HeART Gallery & Studios.

428 N. Erie St. 419-243-4214. heartgalleryandstudios.com St. Paul’s Lutheran Church HeART Gallery has enough reception space for 300 guests— all of whom will be captivated by the venue’s elegant style— to dance the night away after your nuptials. It’s an excellent choice for couples who want a church wedding (a gorgeous church with stained glass windows and a German pipe organ) and a reception that doesn’t require moving to another location.

The staff helps with setting up and disassembling the reception decor, plus the furniture, centerpieces, napkins, tableware and many other necessities are provided. With ample space to dance and a no-fuss approach to planning, this reception venue will steal your HeART (come on, we had to).

Continued On Page 14

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September 1 • September 30

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The perfect venue, the perfect day for the perfect couple.

Wedding dates are available for 2022 and 2023.

For a private club tour, contact Elayne at Eharrison@toledoclub.org or call 419-254-2993 To inquire about date availability, Kathy at Knusbaum@toledoclub.org

Say ‘YES!” to The Toledo Club

Your perfect day is here…

toledoclub.org

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September 1 • September 30

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How we met} ...playing sand volleyball at The Docks downtown

Ashley & Brendan Buckley

Together for two years

Ashley: (Physical Therapist Assistant) “The connection was instant. We stayed out after our volleyball game until 2am just talking. He was different than anyone I’d ever met before, and I knew that any plans I made in the future should include him.”

Brendan: (Nuclear Operator) “She was so easy to approach. It was so natural. She asked me to hang out after my game finished, and we’ve been together ever since.

From day one, I knew I couldn’t imagine my life without her!”

Lindsay at Luckybird Photography

...on an emergency call

Chelsea & Steve Drouillard

Married for one year

Chelsea: (Radiologic technologist at Toledo Hospital Cardiac Cath Lab and Mercy Mobile Stroke Unit) “Steve is a paramedic/firefighter for Toledo Fire & Rescue Department. We met in 2018 while on an emergency call together for a stroke patient. We coincidentally ran into each other a few more times while working, until Steve reached out via Facebook.

HA ERIA N | LUDWIG | SIMO N | HAN S E N

“A smile is the bridge between you and everything.”

Aislinn Timmons (Malayter)

“Steve proposed during an impromptu photoshoot at Oak Openings the week of my birthday in February 2019. On November 15, 2019 we got married. We kept our plans intimate, and opted out of a wedding party to allow our closest friends and family to be fully present and enjoy the day entirely. We opted for edible cookie dough for dessert, an old used firehose for our guest book, and celebrated with sparklers on the rooftop overlooking the city.”

...at work

Paige & Matthew Powers

Together for five years

MAUMEE

4413 Keystone Maumee, OH 43537 419.887.1247

LAMBERTVILLE

7928 Secor Rd. • P.O. Box 860 Lambertville, MI 48144 734.854.6221

SYLVANIA

6407 Monroe St. Sylvania, OH 43560 419.882.1017

www.perfectbraces.com

Paige: (Business Office Manager At Assisted Living Facility) “We met working at The Home Depot distribution center in Van Buren, but our paths were always meant to cross.

Both he and my brother went to The Findlay University at the same time and had similar friends. While I was living in Toledo, my apartment was on the bottom floor and his best friend lived on the top floor. Then, when we both lived in Bowling Green, he lived in the apartments right next to me.”

Luckybird Photography

14

September 1 • September 30

www.toledocitypaper.com

s t a E d o o G e h t in y t i C s s a l G

In Toledo, food is serious business.

Sure, people debate over art and politics and other issues they’re passionate about. But if you want to see a really heated argument, ask Toledoans what restaurant has the best steak.

Or pizza. Or seafood. Or Mediterranean.

Every year, we ask our readers for their opinions for Toledo City Paper’s annual Dining Guide. They’ve identified the best in Toledo’s food scene by selecting favorites in over 100 categories. And now it is our honor to share our readers’ choices with you.

Here are your winners! Bon appetit!

PLACES

Best Restaurant: Inexpensive (under $10)

Best “Splurge” Restaurant

Benchmark

6130 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg 419-873-6590 benchmark-restaurant.com

RUNNER UP: Mancy’s Steakhouse

Ventura’s

mancys.com

7742 W. Bancroft St. 419-841-7523 venturasmexicanrestaurant.com

Best View

That’s a huge patio!

The Heights

RUNNER UP: Libardo’s Catering

444 N Summit St., 12th Floor 419-243-7565 theheightstoledo.com

Company Diner

libardos.com

RUNNER UP:

webbersrestaurant.com

thewhitehouseinn.net

realseafoodcotoledo.com

Best Waterfront Dining

Real Seafood Company 22 Main St. 888-456-3463 realseafoodcotoledo.com

Webber’s Waterfront Restaurant

Mancy’s Steakhouse

853 Phillips Ave. 419-476-4154 mancys.com Timeless. It’s a word that gets overused in marketing, but the term aptly describes the experience of eating at Mancy’s. For a century, diners have experienced the quintessential taste of Toledo when they’ve visited Mancy’s Steakhouse.

Their trademark steaks and chops are aged with the same method that Gus Mancy used when he first opened the restaurant in 1921. No wonder that this Toledo classic still ranks highly in the hearts (and appetites) of area diners.

RUNNER UP: Benchmark

benchmark-restaurant.com

Yep!

Souk Mediterranean Kitchen and Bar

139 S Huron St. 567-777-7685 soukkitchenbar.com Overseen by veteran Chef Moussa Salloukh, Souk’s sunny patio— spotted with umbrellas, casual tables and an iconic, vintage Sunkist sign— provides a cool, sophisticated respite for diners and Farmers Market shoppers. With inventive menu options and amazing service, this is one of Salloukh’s most remarkable restaurants.

RUNNER UP: Real Seafood Company

Best Restaurant: Overall

Best Outdoor Patio/Dining

Hidden Gem

Whiskey and the Wolf 3515 W Alexis Rd. 419-690-4280 whiskeyandthewolf.com

RUNNER UP: Libardo’s libardos.com

Fast Casual Eatery

Balance Pan-Asian Grille

5860 Central Ave., 419-578-7777 26520 N. Dixie Hwy., Perrysburg. 419-874-7777 balancegrille.com

RUNNER UP: Zingo’s Mediterranean eatzingos.com

RUNNER UP: Whitehouse Inn First Date Restaurant

Benchmark

6130 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg 419-873-6590 benchmark-restaurant.com

RUNNER UP: Ventura’s

venturasmexicanrestaurant.com

Mom & Pop Restaurant

Schmucker’s

2103 N Reynolds Rd. 419-535-9116 schmuckersrestaurant.com

RUNNER UP: Fundae Sundaes fundaesundaesicecream.com

Cont’d on p16

www.toledocitypaper.com

September 1 • September 30

15

Place to Impress Your Date

Benchmark

6130 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg 419-873-6590 benchmark-restaurant.com

RUNNER UP: Mancy’s Steakhouse mancys.com

Place to Be Seen

Ventura’s

7742 W. Bancroft St. 419-841-7523 venturasmexicanrestaurant.com

RUNNER UP: Benchmark

benchmark-restaurant.com

Restaurant: Bowling Green

Easy Street Cafe New Restaurant

Hannon’s Block

er.

Block Burg ing good! w lo b d Min

619 Monroe St. 419-407-5146 hannonsblockrestaurant.com A stone’s throw away from Fifth-Third Field, Hannon’s Block has quickly become a destination eatery for Toledo foodies. Blending eclectic and funky decor with some of the best burgers in the area, the Block is the brainchild of native Toledoan Mike Stancati, who returned to Toledo after working at top restaurants in Chicago for over a decade.

Thank You Toledo!

RUNNER UP: Condado Tacos condadotacos.com

Old School Favorite

WINNER 2021

Mancy’s Steakhouse

AWARDS

853 Phillips Ave. 419-476-4154 mancys.com

RUNNER UP: Schmucker’s schmuckersrestaurant.com

Restaurant You Want to Try

Benchmark

6130 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg 419-873-6590 benchmark-restaurant.com

BEST MOM & POP RESTAURANT BEST PIE BEST DESSERTS BEST COMFORT FOOD

RUNNER UP: The Chop House thechophouserestaurant.com

Restaurant to Take a Foodie

Benchmark

RUNNER-UP

OLD SCHOOL FAVORITE

6130 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg 419-873-6590 benchmark-restaurant.com

RUNNER UP: Doc Watson’s docwatsonstoledo.com

Place for a Business Lunch

Mancy’s Steakhouse 853 Phillips Ave. 419-476-4154 mancys.com

RUNNER UP: J. Alexander’s

27 Broadway St. 419-243-1302 rockwells.mbaybrew.com

RUNNER UP: Souk Mediterranean Kitchen and Bar

soukkitchenbar.com

Restaurant: East of the River

Cousino’s Steakhouse

1842 Woodville Rd., Oregon 419-693-0862 Search “Cousino’s Steakhouse” on Facebook

RUNNER UP: Smokey’s BBQ Roadhouse Search “Smokey’s BBQ Roadhouse” on Facebook.

Restaurant: Oregon

Oregon Inn

6067 Bay Shore Rd., Oregon 419-697-1000 theoregoninn.com

RUNNER UP: Luckies Barn and Grill luckiesbarnandgrill.com

Restaurant: Lower Michigan

Angelo’s Northwood Villa 6630 S. Dixie Hwy., Erie, MI 734-848-5511 angelosnorthwoodvilla.com

Village Idiot

309 Conant St., Maumee 419-893-7281 villageidiotmaumee.com

RUNNER UP: Dale’s Bar & Grill daleesbarandgrill.com

Restaurant: Perrysburg

Benchmark

6130 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg 419-873-6590 benchmark-restaurant.com

RUNNER UP: Swig Restaurant swigrestaurant.com

jalexanders.com

Visit our FB page for

16

Rockwell’s

Restaurant: Maumee

28 S St. Clair St. 419-724-7437 homeslice419.com

SCHMUCKERSRESTAURANT.COM hours & daily specials.

Restaurant: Downtown Toledo

soukkitchenbar.com

Home Slice Pizza

419.535.9116

sambs.com

RUNNER UP: Sidelines Italian Grille sidelinesitaliangrille.com

Place for a Late Night Bite

2103 N. Reynolds Rd, Toledo, OH

RUNNER UP: SamBs

RUNNER UP: Souk Mediterranean Kitchen and Bar

& R DINE-IN OPEN FO UT CARRY-O

104 S Main St., Bowling Green 419-353-0988

Like us!

September 1 • September 30

www.toledocitypaper.com

Rooftop Spot

Farmers Market

The Heights

Toledo Farmers Market

444 N Summit St., 12th Floor 419-243-7565 theheightstoledo.com

525 Market St. 419-255-6765 toledofarmersmarket.com

RUNNER UP: Fleetwood’s Tap Room

RUNNER UP: Perrysburg Farmers Market

hensvilletoledo.com/fleetwoods-tap-room

perrysburgfarmersmarket.com

Spot for Breakfast

Place We’ll Miss

Star Diner

Ahmed’s Steak House

Various locations stardiner.org

RUNNER UP: Executive on the Main

RUNNER UP: Fowl and Fodder

Boutique Bakery

fowlandfodder.com

7 Little Cupcakes

25661 Fort Meigs Rd., Ste. D, Perrysburg 419-252-0858 7littlecupcakes.com

Spot for Brunch Restaurant: Sylvania

Inside the Five Brewing Company

are cold!

Bet those

5703 Main St., Sylvania 567-408-7212 insidethefivebrewing.com Beer fans already love Inside the Five’s daily selection of brews on tap, but foodies have also fallen head over heels for the restaurant’s appetizers, salads, sandwiches and more, all accompanied by a fun football theme. With Inside the Five’s modern aesthetic, you have a delicious evening for the whole family.

RUNNER UP: Element 112 element112restaurant.com

Restaurant Worth a Drive

Whitehouse Inn

10835 Waterville St., Whitehouse 419-877-1180 thewhitehouseinn.net

RUNNER UP: Jolly Roger’s Seafood House “Jolly Roger’s Seafood House” on Facebook

Manhattan’s Pub ‘n Cheer 1516 Adams St. 419-243-6675 manhattanstoledo.com

RUNNER UP: Glass City Cupcakes glasscitycupcakes.com

RUNNER UP: Basil Pizza and Wine Bar basilpizzaandwinebar.com

Spot for Lunch

Mancy’s Bluewater Grille 461 W Dussel Dr., Maumee 419-724-2583 mancysbluewater.com

Our designer just really liked the picture of this ice cream cone.

RUNNER UP: Rosie’s Italian Grille rosiesitaliangrille.com

Best Use of Local Ingredients

Fowl and Fodder

Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream

614 Adams St. 419-214-1588 fowlandfodder.com

RUNNER UP: Souk Mediterranean Kitchen and Bar

soukkitchenbar.com

From them.

Best Ice Cream Parlor

5655 Secor Rd., 419-474-8861 5908 W. Sylvania Ave., 419-882-1118 handelsicecream.com

RUNNER UP: Fundae Sundaes fundaesundaesicecream.com

Best Takeout

Little Asia 3527 Dorr St. 419-539-9329 littleasia1.com

RUNNER UP: QQ Kitchen qqkitchen.com

Best Family Meal Deals

Adams Street Cafe 608 Adams St. 419-214-1819 theadamsstcafe.com

Most Creative Menu

Registry Bistro

ters ous ea r u t n Adve ttention! pay a

144 N Superior St. 419-725-0444 registrybistro.com Currently available from Registry’s menu: “Duck Duck Quail” with Hay Smoked Carrots and Roasted Pecan Wild Rice. Miso Roasted Chilean Sea Bass with Chilled Mango Couscous.

And that is just a sample of Chef/Owner Erika Rapp’s commitment to unique and inventive menu options. You can also stop by on Tuesdays and Wednesdays for their Spanish Tapas menu.

For adventurous food, there’s no place quite like the Bistro.

RUNNER UP: Fowl and Fodder fowlandfodder.com

RUNNER UP: Sebastiano’s Italiano sebastianositaliano.com

Cont’d on p18

Beer. Food. Coffee. Friends.

BEST OF BG AWARDS

(voted on by students) 3rd Place Best Latte or Cappuccino

RUNNER-UP 2021

3rd Place Best Coffee

AWARDS

RUNNER-UP BEST BAR IN BOWLING

2nd Place Best Off-Campus Study Spot

HOURS: M - F 7AM - 10PM Sat - Sun 8AM - 10PM

Kitchen closes at 3PM

139 S MAIN ST, BOWLING GREEN, OH 43402 | JUNIPERBREW.COM www.toledocitypaper.com

September 1 • September 30

17

PEOPLE

Maddie & Bella Coffee Roasters 44 S St. Clair St. 419-214-0822 maddieandbella.com

RUNNER UP: Grindhrs Coffee and Community

5305 Monroe St. 419-593-0073 bar-145.com

Best Overall Staff

Benchmark

6130 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg 419-873-6590 benchmark-restaurant.com

RUNNER UP: Ventura’s

venturasmexicanrestaurant.com

Food Truck

grinhrs.com

Rusty’s Road Trip

Best Bartenders

RUNNER UP: Beastro Burger

Barr’s Public House 3355 Briarfield Blvd.

419-866-8466 barrspublichouse.com

RUNNER UP: Premier Pour Bartending premierpour.com

Best Catering

Cork and Knife Provisions

186 E South Boundary St., Perrysburg 419-340-2044 corkandknifeprovisions.com

RUNNER UP: Back 40 backfortycatering.com

rustysroadtripfoodtruck.com

Search “Beastro Burger Truck” on Facebook

The love that the Toledo community has shown for Chef Hartford goes far beyond his cuisine. In April, the 25-year old Hartford almost died from contracting coronavirus and has struggled to recover ever since.

In response, the community has contributed over $10,000 through GoFundMe in support and also held a fundraiser at Bar 145 in Hartford’s honor.

City Paper readers send their deepest well wishes to Chef Hartford and hope he is back in the kitchen soon!

RUNNER UP: Aaron Sanchez, TolHouse tolhouse.com

Coffee Roaster

Cont’d on p20

Maddie & Bella Coffee Roasters 44 S St. Clair St. 419-214-0822 maddieandbella.com

THANK YOU TOLEDO

AWARDS

RUNNER UP: Actual Coffee Roasting Company

Best New Restaurant

HANNONS BLOCK 8th

actualcoffee.com

Local Food Supporter

Cork and Knife Provisions

619 MONROE ST, TOLEDO, OH 43604

186 E South Boundary St., Perrysburg 419-340-2044 corkandknifeprovisions.com

419.407.5146

RUNNER UP: Tim McMahon,

ORDER ONLINE @

HANNONSBLOCKRESTAURANT.COM

Host, Four One Nosh

bcanarts.com/four-one-nosh

WINNER 2021

Award-winning pizza available daily.

We pride ourselves on the freshest toppings and the hottest pizza around!

AWARDS

AWARDS

r, Voted Maumee’s best Baeative Cr Restaurant and Most Pizzas...Thanks Toledo!

WINNER 2021

Best Spot for Brunch RUNNER-UP 2021

Thank you Toledo!

AWARDS

WEEK! A S Y A D 7 T N E M LIVE ENTERTAIN

Best Bloody Mary

Drink Specials every day Local Beer & Spirits Lunch & Dinner Mon-Sat Sunday Brunch 10am-2pm Live Music Thurs thru Sat Private event space available

DINE-IN, were OPEN

Kitchen open till midnight weeknights, 1am weekends

1516 Adams St | 419-243-6675 | manhattanstoledo.com 18

You’ve got this Marcus!

Marcus Hartford, Bar 145

WINNER 2021

Best Baristas

Best Chef

September 1 • September 30

Beer & Pizza Pickup Available

Follow us on Instagram!

@VILLAGEIDIOT309CONANT

309 Conant Street Maumee, Ohio www.toledocitypaper.com

WINNER 2021

AWARDS

Thank youToledo

[

Summer...

If only it were trully endless.

139 South Huron | Downtown | soukkitchenbar.com

www.toledocitypaper.com

September 1 • September 30

19

20

September 1 • September 30

www.toledocitypaper.com

S N O I T A B I L

Best Meadery

Bar: Oregon

1683 Lance Pointe Rd. #106, Maumee 419-288-5007

3310 Navarre Ave., Oregon 419-725-4747 luckiesbarnandgrill.com

Four Fires Meadery

RUNNER UP: Funky Turtle Brewing funkyturtlebrewing.com

Bar: Bowling Green

Howard’s Club H

210 N. Main St., Bowling Green 419-352-3195 Search “Howard’s Club H” on Facebook

Luckies Barn & Grill

5703 Main St., Sylvania 567-408-7212 insidethefivebrewing.com

RUNNER UP: The V.I. Sylvania thevisylvania.com

RUNNER UP: Mancy’s Italian Grill

Sidelines Sports Bar Various locations sidelinessportseatery.com

toledospirits.com/bellwether

RUNNER UP: M’Osteria

Search “The Ottawa Tavern” on Facebook

Sports Bar

Search “Firefly Toledo” on Facebook

RUNNER UP: Levi & Lilac’s Whiskey Room

leviandlilacs.com

Various locations sidelinessportseatery.com

Bar: East of the River

Bar: Perrysburg

RUNNER UP: Shawn’s Irish Tavern

615 Riverside Dr. 567-315-8048 oldbagofnails.com

219 Louisiana Ave., Perrysburg 419-873-6224 swigrestaurantmenu.com

www.toledocitypaper.com

Swig Restaurant RUNNER UP: 5th Street Pub 5thstreetpub.com

Craft Cocktail Selection

444 N. Summit St., 12th Floor 419-243-7565 theheightstoledo.com

RUNNER UP: The Ottawa Tavern

Village Idiot

mancys.com

Barr’s Public House

The Heights

forestviewlanes.com

6130 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg 419-873-6590 benchmark-restaurant.com

Best Bar Overall

Sidelines Sports Bar

facebook.com/TMS141

Wine List

RUNNER UP: Bellwether at Toledo Spirits

309 Conant St., Maumee 419-893-7281 villageidiotmaumee.com

RUNNER UP: Toledo’s Mainstreet

Search “Orchard Inn” on Facebook

Bar: Lower Michigan

1205 Adams St. 419-842-4477 georgjz419.com

Bar & Grill

RUNNER UP: Orchard Inn

5305 Monroe St. 419-593-0073 bar-145.com

Bar: Maumee

Old Bag of Nails

4020 Secor Rd. 419-214-0029 Search “Rocky’s Bar” on Facebook

blackforestcafe.net

Bar 145

RUNNER UP: Black Forest Cafe

Bar: Downtown Toledo

RUNNER UP: Firefly Toledo

Rocky’s Bar

Benchmark

RUNNER UP: Forest View Lanes

Georgjz419

Inside the Five Brewing Company

Dive Bar

Bar: Toledo

RUNNER UP: Juniper Brewing Company juniperbrew.com

Bar: Sylvania

shawnsirishtavern.com

3355 Briarfield Blvd., Maumee 419-866-8466 barrspublichouse.com mosteriatoledo.com

Local Spirits

Toledo Spirits 1301 N Summit St. 419-662-9521 toledospirits.com

RUNNER UP: Six Fifths Distilling sixfifthsdistilling.com

Happy Hour

log on to see last year’s winners

toledocitypaper.com

September 1 • September 30

Ventura’s 7742 W. Bancroft St. 419-841-7523 venturasmexicanrestaurant.com

RUNNER UP: Tekela Mexican Cocina y Cantina

tekelacocina.com

Cont’d on p22

21

Place to Buy Local Beer Locally Brewed Beer

4342 S Detroit Ave. 419-318-8344 earnestbrewworks.com Local brewers Scot Yarnell and Keefe Snyder had over 25 years of experience between them making beer before they opened Earnest Brew Works in 2016. For the past five years, their endlessly inventive and delicious concoctions have graced the palates of beer drinkers. Stop by and see what’s on tap today.

Bar 145

RUNNER UP: The Casual Pint

RUNNER UP: Manhattan’s Pub ‘n Cheer

thecasualpint.com

Place to Drink Local Beer

Margarita

RUNNER UP: Earnest Brew Works

RUNNER UP: Loma Linda Restaurant

Man!! What’s with these cats? They’re all over the place

7742 W. Bancroft St. 419-841-7523 venturasmexicanrestaurant.com Search “Loma Linda Restaurant” on Facebook

Martini

Rosie’s Italian Grille 606 N McCord Rd. 419-866-5007 rosiesitaliangrille.com

RUNNER UP: Mancy’s Italian Grill mancysitalian.com

WINNER 2021

Thank you Toledo for voting us Best Late Night Bite

manhattanstoledo.com

Ventura’s

earnestbrewworks.com

insidethefivebrewing.com

5305 Monroe St. 419-593-0073 bar-145.com

Inside the Five

5703 Main St., Sylvania 567-408-7212 insidethefivebrewing.com

RUNNER UP: Inside the Five

e l g g Snu ith up w lice s ht! e m o H ST Every nig

Harvest

8060 Airport Hwy., Holland 419-491-0049 harvestinholland.com

Earnest Brew Works

Bloody Mary

AWARDS

Bubble Tea

Balance Pan-Asian Grille

5860 Central Ave., 419-578-7777 26520 N. Dixie Hwy., Perrysburg. 419-874-7777 balancegrille.com

RUNNER UP: Kay’s Table kays-table.com

* ALMO

Juice Bar

Local Roots Juice Co.

dy Slices rea 2pm from 11am

306 Elm St., Perrysburg 567-331-8037 localrootsjuiceco.com

RUNNER UP: The Nutrition Spot Search “Nutrition Spot Toledo” on Facebook

* Not responsible for weight gain, crumbs, or stains from snuggling up with a large pizza every night.

OKTOBERFEST CHEFS TABLE DINNER

419-724-PIES

Friday, September 24th

28 S. St. Clair DOWNTOWN TOLEDO, OH

Join Chef Rigot and team as they celebrate Oktoberfest by the Glass City Pond. We will be featuring a Toledo spin on German dishes paired with great local brews and a few classics!

FOOD AND BEER STATIONS $150 Per Guest / 6:30-9:30pm Book tickets at: http://toledorenaissance.eventbrite.com/

RENAISSANCE TOLEDO DOWNTOWN HOTEL 444 N Summit St. • Toledo, OH 419.243.7664 • brimhousetoledo.com

22

September 1 • September 30

www.toledocitypaper.com

PLATES

Creative Burger

Falafel

5305 Monroe St. 419-593-0073 bar-145.com

909 S. McCord Rd., Holland 419-868-9099 grape-leaf.com

Bar 145

Killer Salads

Grumpy’s 34 S Huron St. 419-241-6728 grumpys.net

Mmmmm...

TACOS

RUNNER UP: Zingo’s Mediterranean eatzingos.com

Grape Leaf Diner

Wings

RUNNER UP: Shawarmaholic

Sidelines Sports Eatery & Pub

Search “Beastro Burger Truck” on Facebook

shawarmaholic.com

2111 Mellwood Ave. 419-474-0000 sidelinessportseatery.com

Creative Pizzas

Gyro

RUNNER UP: Fricker’s

309 Conant St., Maumee 419-893-7281 villageidiotmaumee.com

3154 Markway Rd., 419-407-5586 106 Louisiana Ave., Perrysburg. 419-872-5800 eatzingos.com

RUNNER UP: The Beastro Burger Truck

Village Idiot

RUNNER UP: ZaZa’s Woodfired Pizza

RUNNER UP: Grape Leaf Diner

Steak

Pie

853 Phillips Ave. 419-476-4154 mancys.com

2103 N Reynolds Rd. 419-535-9116 schmuckersrestaurant.com

zazawoodfiredpizza.com

Mancy’s Steakhouse

Schmucker’s

RUNNER UP: Mayberry Diner

Sushi

Mac N’ Cheese

38 S St. Clair St. 419-214-0574 kengotoledo.com

25818 N Dixie Hwy, Perrysburg 419-931-9936 socialgastropub.com

Kengo Sushi & Yakitori RUNNER UP: Rayoka Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi

rayokatoledo.com

mayberrydiners.com

Social Gastropub RUNNER UP: Shorty’s True American Roadhouse shortystoledo.com

Desserts

Schmucker’s

Tacos

Condado Tacos

5215 Monroe St. 419-720-6330 condadotacos.com Toledo’s first Condado opened just this past spring, but has already made a name for itself with City Paper voters with their taco offerings. Whether you try one of the restaurant’s trademark creations or build your own, Condado’s take makes for a delectable munchable, whether eaten at their place or ordered to go.

grape-leaf.com

RUNNER UP: Benchmark

benchmark-restaurant.com

frickers.com

Zingo’s Mediterranean

2103 N Reynolds Rd. 419-535-9116 schmuckersrestaurant.com

RUNNER UP: Michael’s Cafe and Bakery michaelsoftoledo.com

Keto Options

Benchmark

6130 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg 419-873-6590 benchmark-restaurant.com

RUNNER UP: Carlos Que Pasa carlosquepasa.com

RUNNER UP: Blue Pacific Grill thebluepacificgrill.com

Ribs

Gluten-Free Options

Shorty’s True American Roadhouse

Fowl and Fodder 614 Adams St. 419-214-1588 fowlandfodder.com

5111 Monroe St. 419-841-9505 shortystoledo.com

RUNNER UP: Blue Pacific Grill thebluepacificgrill.com

RUNNER UP: Ventura’s

venturasmexicanrestaurant.com

Vegan/Vegetarian Options

The Leaf and Seed Cafe

Local Fried Chicken

Adams Street Cafe

116 10th St. 419-407-5333 theleafandseed.com

608 Adams St. 419-214-1819 theadamsstcafe.com

RUNNER UP: Fowl and Fodder

RUNNER UP: Fowl and Fodder

fowlandfodder.com

fowlandfodder.com

Best Healthy Lunch

Pasta Dish

Sidelines Italian Grille 7965 Summerfield Rd., Lambertville, MI 734-568-6055 sidelinesitaliangrille.com

Souk Mediterranean Kitchen and Bar 139 S Huron St. 567-777-7685 soukkitchenbar.com

RUNNER UP: Mancy’s Italian Grill mancysitalian.com

RUNNER UP: Balance Pan-Asian Grille balancegrille.com

Cont’d on p24

Pizza or Philly?

You decide... If you can!

LOOK FOR NEW PHILLOUR TRUCK TOO Y !

TEXT PIZZA ORDERS FOR PICK UP

419.320.4391

PIzza • Stromboli • Wings TEXT PHILLY ORDERS FOR PICK UP or Philly Steaks.

streetfoodfinder.com private parties & catering www.toledocitypaper.com

September 1 • September 30

419.350.4135

Menus and location schedules on our fb page 23

SIDELINES Sports Eatery & Pub

Most Instagram-Worthy Plates

Comfort Food

6130 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg 419-873-6590 benchmark-restaurant.com

2103 N Reynolds Rd. 419-535-9116 schmuckersrestaurant.com Believe it or not, Schmucker’s is more than pie.

A lot more. From the charming old school atmosphere that just screams “vintage diner” to a menu filled with favorites like homemade chili, roast beef sandwiches, chicken and biscuits, grilled baloney and more, Schmucker’s is a great place to enjoy simple, honest eats. But did we mention the pie?

Benchmark

RUNNER UP: Souk Mediterranean Kitchen and Bar soukkitchenbar.com

Healthy Selections

WINNER 2021

Souk Mediterranean Kitchen and Bar

AWARDS

Schmucker’s

139 S Huron St. 567-777-7685 soukkitchenbar.com

RUNNER UP: Adams Street Cafe

RUNNER UP: Fowl and Fodder fowlandfodder.com

Sandwiches

theadamsstcafe.com

Harvest

8060 Airport Hwy., Holland 419-491-0049 harvestinholland.com

RUNNER UP: Grumpy’s

grumpys.net

Local Artisanal Food Product

All Crumbs Artisan Bakery 1109 Adams St. 567-377-8999 allcrumbs.square.site

RUNNER UP: Holey Toledough holeytoledough.com

Sidelines

Nachos

Ventura’s

7742 W. Bancroft St. 419-841-7523 venturasmexicanrestaurant.com RUNNER UP: Whiskey & the Wolf whiskeyandthewolf.com Cont’d on p26

24

September 1 • September 30

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SPONSORED CONTENT

FIND US. LIKE US.

WINNER 2021

n, io t c e l e S il a t k c Craft Co rs, Best Bartendiles Best Cockta & More...

AWARDS !

Thanks Toledo!

3355 Briarfield Blvd Maumee

barrspublichouse.com | 419.866.8466 www.toledocitypaper.com

September 1 • September 30

25

sponsored content

A Refined Taste Rockwell’s classic dining

Exceptional cuisine served in an atmosphere that’s warm, relaxed and inviting best describes Rockwell’s.

On the second floor of the Oliver House, Rockwell’s is a refined, upscale experience, but not fussy. At once historic and modern, a classic steak-and-seafood menu is infused with novel culinary twists. The result is a meal to remember, whether dining with old friends or creating a magical impression on someone new.

Founded in 1998, Rockwell’s is a short drive from anywhere in the greater metro area. Located in downtown Toledo’s oldest commercial building still in use, exposed brick and rich accents provide a warm dining ambiance. From mouthwatering Lamb Chops to Scottish Salmon, Bourbon Street Chicken to Creole Crab Cakes, Twin Lobster Tails to a 32-ounce Wagyu Tomahawk Steak, the menu accommodates every taste. Accompanied by a huge selection of regional and international wines, craft beers and signature cocktails, Rockwell’s knowledgeable staff can steer customers in the right culinary direction.

Every Rockwell’s steak is from only the finest cuts of aged beef, and the seafood is always fresh. Sauces and dressings are made from scratch using exclusive recipes, ensuring that flavors patrons experience at Rockwell’s can’t be duplicated.

Rockwell’s is also equipped to host large parties, banquets and other events. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for an extraordinary evening, Rockwell’s is a place to make memories.

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CHOW LINE

Kay’s Table

Food prepared by a family, for your family

By Jon Ruggiero “I called it Kay’s Table because I only serve what I would serve to my family,” explained Kay Xiong Le, owner and operator of the new restaurant in Sylvania. Family is a big part of the Kay’s Table experience. Not only does the menu feature foods Kay would prepare for her own family, but the foods being served are prepared by Kay’s family.

“Growing up, my dad and I would bond over making dinner together. He believed in education and always encouraged me to go into medicine, which I did, but my first love was still cooking,” Kay, a former ER doctor, explained. “He taught me how to make my first pot of rice at a refugee camp in Ban Vinai, Thailand when I was about 6 years old. My father was always a great hunter. He is the cook in our family.

He can cook anything.”

Though she had no professional experience, Kay began taking up cooking when she started a family. “After I had our first child, I couldn’t go back to practice.

In seven years, I had five children. I ended up staying home and gave up my medical license five years ago. Over the last 20+ years, I cooked to try and perfect my skills and recipes. I always tell people I went into medicine so I can afford to buy all my ingredients to cook with.”

Traditional and new

Kay’s family grew over the years, and so did her appreciation of Southeast Asian cooking. Kay decided to open a restaurant with her children and signed a lease in February, 2020. Unfortunately the restaurant’s opening was delayed due to quarantine restrictions. Kay’s Table opened for take-out last December and began in-store dining this June.

The menu of Kay’s Table showcases foods from Korea, Vietnam, and throughout the Southeast Asian region.

Traditional fare such as Vitenamese pho are available, but Kay also likes to mix it up. “I do have the basic dishes that are well known and popular to bring in the crowds. But I will also surprise new customers and regulars with specials that vary depending on what I’m in the mood to cook.”

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Hearty and delicious

To try everything Kay’s Table had to offer, we took a look at the menu and specials (which change daily, according to ingredient availability). We started with a banh mi ($10.99), a traditional Vietnamese sandwich made with your choice of meat (we chose BBQ pork), pickled veggies and cilantro on a toasted bun. While the thick roll kept all of the ingredients together, the flavors complemented each other well. If you’ve had a banh mi, you will enjoy this great version. If you’ve never had one, this is a wonderful introduction.

After the sandwich, we went with bun cha ($16.99), a plate filled with lettuce, noodles, and other ingredients. Many different flavors came out in this dish, but they are all tied together with the nuoc mam dipping sauce, a sweet and garlicheavy mixture.

We ended our meal with a special item Kay and one of her daughters had just introduced before our visit; the crispy Korean hot dog ($5.50). Perhaps you feel like this is more likely to be found at a state fair: a hot dog on a stick, dipped in batter, rolled in sugar, and topped with either ketchup and mustard or sweet chili sauce. Though not a part of the regular menu, it pays to check in every day to see what new dish Kay and her family are serving.

Whether you are experienced with Asian cuisine or can’t differentiate a spring roll from an egg roll, you’ll find enjoyment at Kay’s Table.

6600 W. Sylvania Ave., Ste. 3E, Sylvania 419-517-0261 kays-table.com

New Menu by CHEF CHRIS

VIDACANTINA419.COM 4477 Monroe St., Toledo, Ohio 43613 | 567-315-8979

September 1 • September 30

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POPPERS Agni

Will Lobster Fest return to Kelleys Island?

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MASSAGE & ESTHETICS

Wholesale & Office Coffee Programs Available

Lobsters. Those delicious, succulent sea bugs are among most everyone’s idea of a luxury meal. Once a year, The Village Pump on Kelleys Island serves up first come, first served orders of full lobster dinners to go during its Lobster Fest event, currently scheduled for September 25. This year, however, there are questions about whether or not the Village Pump will be able to put on the trademark event. The increasing prices of lobster (another outcome of post-COVID times) are putting the likelihood of the festival in doubt. For the latest updates, visit villagepumpkioh.com.

Food truck frenzy at Glenwood Massage therapy specializing in women’s health.

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in Toledo’s Warehouse District!

RETAIL HOURS: MON. & WED. 8AM-3PM, FRI. 8AM-5:30PM 201 MORRIS, SUITE G, TOLEDO, OH 43604 419-378-1798 | INFO@FLYINGRHINOCOFFEE.COM

Toledo boasts a delicious variety of food trucks representing an amazing assortment of dining options.

Beginning in July, 2020, Glenwood Lutheran Church has hosted a monthly Food Truck Rally on the front lawn and in the parking lot of their church along Monroe St., immediately adjacent to the Toledo Museum of Art. The September edition of this regular celebration will be held on Wednesday, September 15. Stop on by and sample some of the 419’s best on-the-go cuisine! 4pm. 2545 Monroe St. 419-255-0886. glenwoodlc.net

THANK YOU TO OUR PARTY IN THE PARKING LOT SPONSORS! William Heck David Karmol

Mark Ralston Greg Kopan Luis Santiago

Paul Sullivan Christian Piazza

NOBLE WEALTH P

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CURTAIN CALL

THEATER NOTES

A Perfect Welcome Back

Let the Sunshine in!

The Village Players are back! The popular community theater group returns to the stage this month with a production of Neil Simon’s classic comedy The Sunshine Boys. The local show was a long time coming— it was cast over a year ago but was delayed for obvious reasons. Heartwarming and hilarious, the show tells the tale of a pair of vaudevillian comedians who had a falling out years ago who are reluctantly brought back together to do a television special. $20 for standard tickets, $18 for seniors and students. Friday, September 10 through Sunday, September 12. Also Thursday, September 16 through Sunday, September 19. Village Players Theatre, 2740 Upton Ave. 419-472-6817. thevillageplayers.org

Toledo Rep presents Something Rotten

By Julie Pompa

Stranahan kicks off new season

The Stranahan Theater has announced the first shows that will take its stage to open the 2021-22 season. Rockers REO Speedwagon will appear Friday, October 15, while Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles will perform Thursday, October 21 and Friday, October 22. The long-delayed tour stop of Whose Live Anyway? is scheduled for Sunday, October 31, while the Broadway musical version of the animated classic Anastasia will be staged Thursday, November 4 through Sunday, November 7. For the latest schedule information, visit stranahantheater.com.

SomethingRotten - Jarrod Alexander (center, standing) is William Shakespeare in the Toledo Rep’s performance of Something Rotten! Others rehearsing are (clockwise from Alexander) Matthew Leuck, Kevin O’Korn, Elizabeth Latta, Mikey DelVecchio, Jack Rust, Jeffery Beam, Neil Powell and Allen Owen.

Director Deb Calabrese is ready to stage a “bucket list” musical here in Toledo, one perfectly suited to our times. The play, the first full-scale production for the Toledo Repertory Theatre since the pandemic, could provide an evening to make you forget about the last 15 months?

The Rep’s production of Something Rotten!, September 10-26 at the 10th Street Theater, may be just the ticket.

The musical comedy, set in 1595, follows Nick and Nigel Bottom’s theatre troupe, which has to compete with a wildly popular contemporary— William Shakespeare. The show opened on Broadway in 2015 and has been nominated for 10 Tony Awards, including Best Musical.

Desperate to write a hit play but stuck in the shadow of “the Bard,” the Bottom brothers learn from a fortune teller that the future of theatre involves singing, dancing and acting, all at the same time. So, they set out to write the world’s first musical, complete with large scale song and dance numbers.

A treat for Toledo

Calabrese and her husband saw Something Rotten! on Broadway five years ago. “It was such a wonderful performance, I promised myself that I would do that show sometime,” she said.

Likewise, Steven Kiss, who plays Nigel Bottom in the Rep’s production, had a similar reaction when he saw the touring production in Detroit. “As soon as they did the opening number, ‘Welcome to the Renaissance,’” I thought, ‘This is something I have to do,’” he said.

Although Jeffery Beam (who plays Nick Bottom) hasn’t seen the play, he’s a self-proclaimed “Shakespeare nerd” who is a fan of Shakespeare’s complete works.

Careful but excited

Director Calabrese is excited to be working with the cast. “We’ve had to be cautious coming out of COVID-19,

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and we’re taking our rehearsals day by day,” she said. “The cast is enthusiastic about doing this. It’s a popular musical, and we’re excited to bring it here.”

A tap dance teacher since the 1970s, Calabresee is personally blocking and teaching the tap numbers for the production. “Tap is a core in the theater, and my goal is to share my knowledge and love of it with others,” she explained. “Even cast members who haven’t tapped before are picking it up.”

I Ought to Be on stage

The Neil Simon theme continues with area community theaters as the Black Swamp Players in Bowling Green present Simon’s I Ought to Be in Pictures beginning September 17.

Directed by Wayne G. Weber, the show follows the story of a screenwriter, struggling with writer’s block, whose long-absent daughter arrives at her home hoping he can help her start a career in Hollywood. Friday, September 17 through Sunday, September 19. Also Friday, September 24 through Sunday, September 26. 115 E. Oak St., Bowling Green. blackswampplayers.org

Perfection at the Rep

For Kiss, working with Calabrese is fate: “She directed my last show before the pandemic, and it’s perfect that she’s directing my first show after the pandemic,” he explained, adding, “This performance is almost like a grand opening– for me and the Rep.” Kiss has performed in theatre productions throughout northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan since he was very young, most often at the Croswell Opera House in Adrian. Something Rotten! will be his first Toledo Repertory appearance. “I’m excited to be playing Nigel, who is lighthearted and has many of the funny lines in the musical.”

It’s ironic that Jeffery Beam performs the song “God, I Hate Shakespeare.” “It is a parody, but at the same time a tribute to Shakespeare,” he explained. “It should be fun for people who love musicals, because there are so many references to musicals throughout the show.”

Beam has lived in Toledo since he was 12 when he performed in The King & I at the Westgate Dinner Theatre.

Calabrese anticipated that everyone will have fun at Something Rotten! “We need a little lift after the last one and a half years,” she said. “Laugh and have a great evening!” $14.74-24.75 8pm, Sept. 10-11, 17-18, 23-25 2:30pm, Sept. 19 and 26 16 Tenth St., 419-243-9277 Purchase tickets at toledorep.org,

September 1 • September 30

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FILM NOTES Pride back at the Drive-In

Last year, Toledo Pride was forced to adapt, adding a “Pride at the Drive-In” event as a substitute for some of the usual August celebration plans. The event proved so popular, however, that it has now become an annual addition to the City’s Pride festivities. This year’s Pride at the Drive-In will take place on Thursday, September 9 at the Sundance Kid Drive-In. Both screens will be showing a classic LGBT+ themed movie— Screen One will show “The Birdcage,” while Screen Two will show a film chosen via a vote held on the Toledo Pride webpage. $10 per car. 7:30pm. 4500 Navarre Ave. toledopride.com

Scoob! Where are you?

Get ready for the spooky season with a visit to see that classic ghost hunter, Scooby Doo. The City of Toledo will host a free screening of the 2020 family film “Scoob!” on Thursday, September 16.

Based on the iconic cartoon series, “Scoob! “features an all-star cast of voice talent, with stars like Zac Efron, Will Forte and Amanda Seyfried lending their voices to the members of Mystery, Inc. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own blankets and lawn chairs. The screening begins at dusk. 1226 Woodsdale Park Dr. Search “Movie in the Park, Sept. 16” on Facebook.

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September 1 • September 30

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ART TO HEART

Feel Hearty at Fuller

The Fuller Art House is bringing back one of its most popular events beginning in September. Hearty Nights at the Art House sees art lovers gather at Fuller for an evening of conversation and delicious salads. All attendees will go home with a handmade salad plate after enjoying the chance to meet and learn from guest artists. September will see a duo demo featuring Anne Kindl and Ed Kennedy, as well as three different salad tastings. $55. Thursday, September 16. 5679 Main St., Sylvania. 419-882-8949. Fullerarthouse.com

Savage donation leads to new TMA gallery

Toledo area artists will soon be able to showcase their work in the hallowed halls of the Toledo Museum of Art (TMA). A $200,000 donation from Robert C. and Susan Savage inspired the launch of a new Community Gallery on the lower level of the TMA, which opened this past June. The reimagined space gives area artists a place to display and sell their work to Museum visitors. Robert Savage worked as CEO and president of Savage and Associates before his retirement. Robert and Susan have become respected philanthropists over the past few years, with generous donations to organizations such as the Toledo-Lucas County Public Library along with the Museum.

ART by Mingo

Domingo Herrera follows his passion to success

By Kiera Jacobs Domingo Herrera likes to do a little bit of everything. Born and raised in South Toledo, the local artist has loved creating artwork since he was a kid, participating in summer art programs when he was as young as eight years old.

Mingo created art until he was about 17 or 18, but then stopped for a while due to personal matters. “Everytime anyone said something about it, I didn’t want to do it,” said Domingo.

“I had a fear of being made fun of. I forgot how much I liked doing it, and depression and anxiety runs in my family. So as I got older, I started to veer away from it.”

Back to work

Now 34 years old, Domingo is back to pursuing his passion, starting two years ago, after a 15 plus year hiatus.

“I tried for a long time to be happy,” said Domingo. “Two years ago I think it was a real click for me to want to be happier and normal. If I want to be happy, I have to at least try.”

Since then, Domingo’s work has begun to be noticed. He won Best Visual Artist in the City Paper’s 2019 Best of Toledo Awards. He says art has given him an outlet to feel young, peaceful, and free again. “When I started to get a lot of compliments on my art work, I started selling a few pieces to make a living,” Domingo said. “It’s scary but it’s everything to me. You never know until you try.”

As an artist, Domingo has experi-

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mented with several different mediums — he says it feels like he has tried it all. At the moment, his focus is abstract and modern art. “I’ll use a piece of just about anything to create art,” said Domingo. “If my dog tore one of my kids’ toys, I would save it to create art.”

At first, Domingo was creating his art pieces in one to two days and 5-7 art pieces a week. These pieces were smaller and more in the mold of mixed media. However, now that Domingo’s pieces have gotten larger and more detailed, it takes him about a week to create one art piece.

“I get my ideas on Sunday and then

by Friday, I post the making of the piece and how far the piece is along in the process,” he said.

Largely leaving his pieces untitled until recently, Domingo started naming his artwork within the past six months. The titles are simple and direct: “Voyage.” “Golden.” “Night Owl.” He also documents how he creates his artwork on social media for others to see and always posts his final products.

“Now that I do art, I like to document it a lot,” he says. “That way when I am older, I can say I accomplished a lot. I can say that I was positive and did so much.”

Patrons are able to purchase Domingo’s artwork by reaching out to him on Facebook through “Art By Mingo”.

ART EVENTS DAILY Hope Olson: The Language of Flowers - The artist from Holland, MI presents

a series of paintings all centered around a single theme— flower arrangements. Through September 15. Fuller Art House, 5679 Main St., Sylvania. 419882-8949. fullerarthouse.com

Jonathan Ralston: Shadows and Enlightenment - Toledo native Ralston

returns to his hometown with an exhibit of his detailed paintings of architecture. Through September 25. 20 North Gallery, 18 N. St. Clair St. 419-241-2400. 20northgallery.com

River House Arts Exhibits - Three new shows are currently ongoing: Waking Dream, Ritual Relations and Lawn. All three available by appointment through October 1. 425 Jefferson Ave. 419-4414025. river-house-arts.com

Supernatural America: The Paranormal in American Art - This

fascinating exhibit examines the relationship between American artists and the supernatural.

Through September 5. Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 Monroe St., 419-255-8000. toledomuseum.org

Untitled Kay Weprin Exhibit - The bold

and colorful works of Toledo, OH artist Weprin will be on display. Hudson Gallery, 5645 N. Main St., Sylvania. 419-885-8381. hudsongallery.net

WEDNESDAY 9.15 Creativo! - This event spotlighting Latino artists

will be held in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month.

Runs through October 15. Terhune Gallery, Owens Community College, 7270 Biniker Dr., Perrysburg.

567-661-7956. owens.edu

September 1 • September 30

THURSDAY 9.16 The Momentum Festival - The Arts

Commission and Momentum Toledo’s event celebrating the transformative importance of art in the community returns. The three day event showcases performing and visual artists from around the world in an effort to present interesting talent and to revitalize the waterfront area. Thursday, September 16 through Saturday, September 18. Water St. Search for “The Momentum Festival” on Facebook. Free

SATURDAY 9.18 Artalicious Fine Arts Fair - Fine art,

food and entertainment will be on hand with this event featuring local and regional artists, as well as live music performances. 11am-7pm. Main & Maumee St., Adrian, MI. artalicious.org. Free

Flying Pig Arts Fest - Toledo School for the Arts kicks off its year with exhibits, vendors, bands and much more. $10, $8 for alumni, $5 for students. 3-10pm. Toledo School for the Arts, 333 14th St. 419-246-8732. ts4arts.org

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2021

T S E B O D E TOOMLINATIONS N

Get ready to roll!

It’s time for Toledo City Paper’s 2021 Best of Toledo Nominations!

Which local people, places and plates have hit the jackpot with you in the past year? Head to toledocitypaper.com and nominate your favorites starting September 1! Nominations will run through October 15!

Don’t cash in your chips until you’ve had your say!

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September 1 • September 30

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Highlighted events indicates our picks for the week

wed, SEPT 1 Brew House: Aaron Hertzfeld (singer/ songwriter) Levis Commons Music at the Fountain: Cara Taylor Olander Park: Black Swamp Winds (woodwind) Stroll the Street in Rossford: Three 2 Many (alternative folk)

THURS, SEPT 2

Jazz in the Garden: Chris Buzzelli’s Quartet Plat8: Muddy and Chris Shutters (blues/ rock)

FRI, SEPT 3

Griffin Hines Farm: NuTones (Woodstock Tribute Show) Jefferson Stage: Chris Slayer, Black Swamp Rebels, Electrik Circus Levis Square Park Stage: Jeff Stewart, Amelia Airharts, Ramona Collins Promenade PromenadePark: Park:Gwen GwenStefani Stefani(pop) (pop)

sat, SEPT 4 Bar 145: DJ Jimmy Rock Kobe Bay on the Docks: Scott and Molly Fish (acoustic) Promenade Park: Chris Young (country)

sun, sept 5 Fulton County Fair: Grand Funk Railroad (rock) Kobe Bay on the Docks: Ross Thompson (guitarist) Thirsty’s Pub & Grub: The Promised Band Open Blues Jam Toledo Zoo Amphitheatre: The Doobie Brothers (rock)

mon, SEPT 6 Kobe Bay on the Docks: Dave Carpenter (acoustic)

wed, SEPT 8 Levis Commons Music at the Fountain: Bob Stevens (rock) Stroll the Street in Rossford: The Cheeks (rock)

THURS, SEPT 9 Jazz in the Garden: Maloney Quintet Lunch at Levis: Johnny Reed and the Houserockers (blues-rock) Plat8: Muddy Shutters (rock/pop) Proclaim FM Event Center: Joel Vaughn (Christian Pop) Ye Olde Cock and Bull: Captain Sweet Shoes (acoustic)

fri, SEPT 10 Wolverine Park: Vendetta Ride (country/ rock)

sat, SEPT 11 Bar 145: DJ Jimmy Rock Kobe Bay on the Docks: Christa McCutchen (folk) Ottawa Park Amphitheatre: Great Lakes Jazz Festival Over Yonder Concert House: The Rough and Tumble (folk) Toledo Farmers Market: Chloe and the Steel Strings (Americana)

sun, SEPT 12 Downtown Grand Rapids: Rhythm on the River Jackson Arboretum: The Sympathy Orchestra (progressive rock) Thirsty’s Pub & Grub: The Promised Band Open Blues Jam Toledo Museum of Art Peristyle: Rhiannon Giddens (country/blues)

wed, SEPT 15 Levis Commons Music at the Fountain: Swingmania (swing) Stroll the Street in Rossford: Quartet Bernadette (jazz)

THURS, SEPT 16 Arlyn’s Good Beer: Brad Billmaier Trio (jazz) Centennial Terrace: Justin Moore (country) Lunch at Levis: Arctic Clam (rock) Plat8: Tim Oehlers (guitarist) Ye Olde Cock and Bull: Captain Sweet Shoes (acoustic)

fri, SEPT 17 Backyard BBQ and Booze: Ethan Timm (guitarist)

Centennial Terrace: 1964 The Tribute (Beatles cover band) Dexter’s: Married with Children (rock) Mail Pouch Saloon: Aaron Hertzfeld (singer/songwriter)

sat, SEPT 18 Arlyn’s Good Beer: Tito Villareal (blues) Bar 145: DJ Jimmy Rock Benfield Wines: Abbigale Rose (folk) Dexter’s: 419 Music Fest Hollywood Casino: Draw the Line (Aerosmith tribute) Kobe Bay on the Docks: Steve Kennedy (rock) The Sandbar: Not Fast Enuff (party rock)

sun, SEPT 19 Thirsty’s Pub & Grub: The Promised Band Open Blues Jam

wed, SEPT 22 Levis Commons Music at the Fountain: Chris Shutters (blues/rock) Stroll the Street in Rossford: Dave Carpenter Duo (acoustic)

THURS, SEPT 23 Ye Olde Cock and Bull: Captain Sweet Shoes (acoustic)

fri, SEPT 24 Brookwood Metropark: SistaStrings (folk) The Polish Ostrich: JP and the Big Deal (Americana) Toledo Zoo Amphitheatre: Brett Eldredge (country

sat, SEPT 25 Bar 145: DJ Jimmy Rock Hollywood Casino: Swingtown (Steve Miller tribute)

sun, SEPT 26 Thirsty’s Pub & Grub: The Promised Band Open Blues Jam

wed, SEPT 29 Stroll the Street in Rossford: Randy Krajewski’s Polish Band Levis Commons Music at the Fountain: Ben DeLong Band (singer/songwriter)

THURS, SEPT 30 MyWay Bistro: The Skittle Bots (90s rock) Ye Olde Cock and Bull: Captain Sweet Shoes (acoustic)

Searchable lists updated daily at TOLEDOCITYPAPER.COM

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Eight hours of Jazz comes to Ottawa Park

Saturday, September 11 Get ready for an afternoon of great music at the Ottawa Park Amphitheater. The sixth annual Great Lakes Jazz Festival will be held on Saturday, September 11. The annual eight-hour event is organized by the H-Factor Jazz Enthusiast Club, the brainchild of H-Factor Jazz Show host Hugh Ross, Jr. Showcasing a variety of artists and styles of jazz, the eight-hour event has become an anticipated part of the Toledo music calendar. Noon-8pm. 2205 Kenwood Blvd. greatlakesjazzfestival.net Free

Brett Eldredge says Good Day to Toledo Zoo Friday, September 24

Country music singer-songwriter Brett Eldredge will play the Toledo Zoo Amphitheater on Friday, September 24, as part of his Good Day Tour. A native of Paris, Illinois, Eldredge has become a force in the country scene over the past decade, with songs like “Beat of the Music,” “Mean to Me” and “Lose My Mind” reaching number one on the Country airplay charts.

His most recent album, “Sunday Drive,” was released in July 2020. $49.75-79.75. 7:30pm. 2700 Broadway St., 419-385-5721. toledozoo.org

SistaStrings to enchant Brookwood Metropark

Friday, September 24 The remarkable, genre-bending talents of sisters Monique and Chauntee Ross— better known as SistaStrings— will grab attention at Brookwood Metropark on Friday, September 24. The concert will be presented as part of the park’s Folk Series, which this season is featuring renowned female artists both locally and from around the country. Originally from Milwaukee, SistaStrings have made a name for themselves over the past few years with their classically-trained violin and cello playing, mixed with notes of R&B and gospel. The concert is free to attend, but reservations are required. 6:30pm. 5604 Swan Creek Dr., 419407-9810. metroparkstoledo.com

WE HAVE IT ALL ONLINE! COMPLETE M U S I C E V E N T S AT T O L E D O C I T Y PA P E R . C O M

September 1 • September 30

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road TRIP

TUESDAY 7

A GPS trip through the Old West End

[music] Live Music, Poolside! - Brandywine Country Club invites you to an adults-only pool party with live music, Euchre tables, food, drink and more. 5:30-8:30pm. Also on Tuesday, September 21. 6904 Salisbury Rd., Maumee.

419-865-2393. brandywinecc.com Free

Ever wanted to take a leisurely stroll through the historic Old West End with a pair of experts to talk you through the legacy of the area’s beautiful buildings? A set of new GPS tours has you covered. The VoiceMap app now offers a bundle of three walking tours through Toledo’s Old West End, with voice commentary and insights from Tedd Long, the writer behind holytoledohistory.com, and Dr. Ted Ligibel, director emeritus of Eastern Michigan University’s Historic Preservation program. Each individual tour lasts up to three hours. $4.99 per tour, or $12.80 for the bundle. Go to voicemap.me to purchase.

SATURDAY 11 [fundraiser] On Tap and Uncorked - This evening of live music, beer and wine tastings, a silent auction and more will benefit Sylvania Area Family Services. $75. 7-11pm. Centennial Terrace, 5773 Centennial Rd., Sylvania. 419-882-8415. sa-fs.org

BRIM HOUSE BRINGS OKTOBERFEST TO CHEF’S TABLE

[food] Toledo Beer and Bacon Fest - The ultimate beer festival, paired with the ultimate food. Get 10 beer samples with admission. $30, $45 for VIP tickets. 4-9pm. Hungarian Club of Toledo, 224 Paine Ave., 419-698-5195. facebook.com/HungarianClubofToledo

It’s almost time for that most glorious of months, where ghouls and goblins come out and-- more importantly for some of us-- beer and pretzels are on the menu. The fine folks at Brim House will be honoring the occasion a bit early with an event on Friday, September 24.

Join Chef Rigot and the team as they celebrate Oktoberfest by the Glass City Pond. $150. 6:30-10pm. Brim House, 444 N. Summit St., 419-243-7664. brimhousetoledo.com

TUESDAYS [food] Sylvania Farmers Market - The weekly market finds a new home at the parking lot at Harroun Community Park. 3-7pm, through October. 5428 Main St, Sylvania. 419-283-7168.

Search “Sylvania Farmers Market” on Facebook.

Free

WEDNESDAYS [misc.]

Stroll the Street in Downtown Rossford - Visit arts vendors, food trucks, farm market booths, musical entertainment and more at this weekly event. 4:30-7:30pm. Ford Memorial Park, 146 Dixie Hwy., Rossford. visitrossfordohio.com. Free

THURSDAYS [music] Lunch at Levis - The popular concert series features live entertainment, a selection of great eats from area food trucks, as well as games and other activities. 11:30am-1:30pm. Through September 16. Levis Square Park, 285 N. St. Clair St. Free

WEDNESDAY 1 [food] Oregon Rollin’ Food and Farm Market - Stop out on the first Wednesday of the month for the best in local food trucks and fresh produce. 5-8pm. 2973 Dustin Rd., Oregon. embchamber.org Free

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

Our top must-attend, out-of-town events for SEPTEMBER:

No, the tour doesn’t start at 4:20

Get ready for one of the most highly entertaining and educational tours of your life. The Wacky Weed Tour is a multi-stop guided walking trip/party through Ann Arbor. Featuring stops at a bunch of the city’s most popular marajuana retailers— both medicinal and for general adult use— the tour includes an extensive presentation that has elements of historical lecture, mystery and comedy. Every stop includes discounts and offers exclusive to the tour group. Head for Ann Arbor and grab some bud! $25. Available Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Starts near Liberty Cannabis, 305 S. Ashley St., Ann Arbor, MI. Make reservations at wackyweedtours.com

SUNDAY 12

THURSDAY 2 [food] Beer and Wine Tasting - Personal chef Jennifer Schuerman hosts a tasting featuring creative foods. $36.05 per person. 6:30-8:30pm.

Schedel Gardens and Arboretum, 19255 W. Portage River South Rd., Elmore. 419-862-3182. schedel-gardens.org [film] Movie in the Park at Wilson Park The animated family flick “The Croods” will be shown. Bring your own blankets and lawn chairs.

7-9:30pm. 3251 Otto Rd. Search “Movie in the Park” on Facebook. Free

FRIDAY 3 [music] Solheim Cup Opening Ceremony Celebration - Multi-platinum artist Gwen Stefani headlines the Opening Ceremony Fan Fest at Promenade Park. $30-124. Opening ceremony begins at 5pm, concert begins at 8:15pm. 400 Water St. promenadeconcerts.com

SATURDAY 4 [festival] Grito Fest 2021 - This street festival, hosted by the El Corazon de Mexico dance group and Latins United, will feature live music and dancing, as well as plenty of food. 3-11pm. Latino’s, 706 St. St Clair St., 419-283-1628. elcorazondemexicodance.com [music] Solheim Celebration Day 2 - Country superstar Chris Young headlines the second day of performances at Promenade Park. Singersongwriter Eric Sowers will open. $25-85. Gates open at 5, Sowers performs at 6:15, Young performs at 8:30. 400 Water St. promenadeconcerts.com

[music] An Evening with Rhiannon Giddens - Grammy Award Winner and MacArthur Genius Grant recipient Giddens performs with the Toledo Symphony. $22-60. 7pm. Toledo Museum of Art Peristyle, 2445 Monroe St., 419246-8000. toledosymphony.com

THURSDAY 16 [art] The Momentum Festival - The Arts Commission and Momentum Toledo’s three day event showcases performing and visual artists from around the world in an effort to help revitalize the waterfront area. Thursday, September 16 through Saturday, September 18.

Water St. Search for “The Momentum Festival” on Facebook. Free

It’s Oktober in September!

Check your calendars, October is almost here!

For those who love beer and German heritage, that means the glorious arrival of Oktoberfest celebrations! Downtown Findlay gets a jump on the party with its 7th Annual Oktoberfest event on Saturday, September 25. One of the largest events in Hancock County, the party will feature plenty of traditional German music, authentic food, the Kinderplatz Kid Zone and, of course, barrels and barrels of beer! $5 for adults, $3 for under 21. 2-10:30pm. 328 Main St., Findlay. oktoberfestfindlay.com

FRIDAY 17 [fundraiser] Zoo to Do - The Toledo Zoo’s trademark black-tie-and-tennis-shoes fundraiser returns after being cancelled in 2020. $150. 6pm-midnight. 2 Hippo Way, 419-385-5721. toledozoo. org

SATURDAY 18 [health] 5k at Put in Bay - Join in with over 500 runners and take in some beautiful sights as part of the annual race. 9am-11am. Boathouse Grill, 218 Hartford Ave., Put-in-Bay, OH. Register at 5katputinbay.com. [music] Hispanic Heritage Month KickOff Concert - A celebration of Latino culture, music and food, which will feature the presentation of the Cesar Chavez Humanitarian Award and Amigo Award. $10 in advance, $15 at entrance. Promenade Park, 400 Water St., 419-244-8440. adelantetoledo.org

September 1 • September 30

[festival] Islamic Center of Greater Toledo International Festival - The 20th anniversary of this event will see cultural experiences from over 20 different ethnicities celebrated under one tent. Also held Sunday, September 19. 25877 Scheider Rd., Perrysburg. 419-874-3509. icgt.org Free [festival] Positively Perrysburg Fest - With arts and crafts, food, entertainment, family activities and more, Perrysburg’s largest outdoor festival returns for a new year.

9:30am-3pm. Downtown Perrysburg. perrysburgchamber.com Free [reunion] Start Class of 1970 Reunion Delayed a year, this 50 year celebration will include a full dinner plus a cash bar. $50.

6-11pm. Shorty’s Back Forty, 5215 Monroe St., 513-368-7003. startclassof1970.com

www.toledocitypaper.com

SUNDAY 19

FRIDAY 24

[lit.]

Northwest Ohio Comic Show - Get ready for an afternoon of digging through long boxes, as well as local artists and door prizes. $3, kids 12 and under free. 10am-4pm. Tremainsville Hall, 2347 Tremainsville Rd. Search “Northwest Ohio Comic Show” on Facebook.

[music] Musical Portraits - The Toledo Symphony Orchestra and pianist Sara Davis Buechner pay tribute to the faces of the Toledo community. $2252. 8pm. Also Saturday, September 25 at 8pm.

Toledo Museum of Art Peristyle, 2445 Monroe St., 419-246-8000. toledosymphony.com

WEDNESDAY 22 [misc.]

International Human Trafficking and Social Justice Conference - The University of Toledo will host the 18th annual event virtually over three days, featuring over 180 presenters. $80 for one day, $150 for two days, $200 for all three. Register to attend at traffickingconference.com.

THURSDAY 23 [misc.]

Hospice of NW Ohio 40th Anniversary - The Perrysburg High School Select Strings Orchestra will perform as part of this open house-style event. 5-7pm. The Pinnacle, 1772 Indian Wood Circle, Maumee. 419-661-4001. hospicenwo.org

SATURDAY 25 Roche de Boeuf Festival - Waterville’s 48th annual festival includes a parade, fine arts on display and a kids’ area. 9am-5pm. 122 Farnsworth Rd., Waterville. watervillechamber. com Free

SUNDAY 26 [fundraiser] Harvest Dinner with Toledo GROWS - Enjoy a four-course plated dinner from Chef Moussa Salloukh, with all proceeds going toward Toledo GROWs. $100 per person. 6-8pm. Souk Mediterranean Kitchen and Bar, 139 S. Huron St. toledogrows.org [music] Sacred Harvest Festival - The fifth annual edition of Grand Rapids’ celebration of the Ohio music and artistic scene will be held over the course of three days, through Saturday, October 2. 24401 Poe Rd. W, Grand Rapids. sacredharvestmusicfest.com Free

6925 W. Central Ave.

y sures ma Our trea our type! y t be jus

www.toledocitypaper.com

(Just west of McCord Road)

Find us on FB & IG!

consignithome@gmail.com

419.841.4663

September 1 • September 30

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SOCIAL STUDIES

Photos by Christine Senack

Maumee Summer Fair

A slew of locals turned out to enjoy a balmy summer weekend (and maybe a lovely beverage or two) in downtown Maumee for the 44th annual fair, held on August 13 and 14!

Leigh, Terry and Hailey Anderson

Amanda Ybarra, Sarah Lumbrezer and Danyelle Miller

Brittni Kwiatkowski, Nick Wong, Jake Wawrzyniak and Joe Yingling

Ross & Melissa Echler, Andy Ankenbrandt, Lauren Rush, Scott Markiewicz, Andrea Ankenbrandt

Festival of India 2021

One of the BEST festivals of the year returned in 2021, the Hindu Temple of Toledo’s Festival of India. It is a fun day of Indian food, dancing and market shopping!

Arjun Jayaraman, Hema Jayaraman and Kamatchi Subramanian

Sangeeta Mehta, Shveta Surana, Pooja Jain, Ankita Singh, Sonia Batra and Kandis Rich

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Abhay & Latika Shelke with Poonam Saini

September 1 • September 30

www.toledocitypaper.com

FREEWILL ASTROLOGY

IS NOT Across 1. Left each other’s company 7. “Amtrak Joe,” now: Abbr.

11. Coach K’s crew for one more season 15. “Guilty of grammatical purity as charged!”

16. River of the Basque Country 17. Server’s operating system 18. Moves effortlessly out of the way of danger?

20. Best Supporting Actor of 2019 21. Crime fighters named after Renaissance painters, briefly 22. See 4-Down 23. Series opener 25. Platter’s flip 27. Uses a stopwatch during “Take Me Home Tonight” singer’s set?

30. Phoebe of “Gremlins” 32. Moon unit?: Abbr.

33. Going either way, politically: Abbr.

34. Material 38. Slimes 40. Sign above the SCOTUS bar?

43. “La Vita Nuova” author 44. Diplomat’s dream 45. TV show with the video game tie-ins subtitled “Unsolved!” and “Fatal Conspiracy” 46. Digital form of communication 48. Gangster Gambino 51. Can’t get enough of a window treatment?

56. South American savannah 58. Where Heracles fought the lion 59. Does a landscaper’s job 61. Drinks served in a flight 62. Collective bargaining govt. group 63. Uses a vibrator on the ultrawealthy?

66. “___ Whore” (Cheap Trick song) 67. 1,000 baiza 68. Dreaded strains?

69. Unkind look 70. Ancient, quaintly 71. Mark in the World Golf Hall of Fame

Down 1. Ancient Scots 2. ___ clock 3. Country bordered by Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo 4. 22-Across face-off 5. Christmas in D.C. setting 6. Ultimate prop 7. They often take a bow 8. Construction piece similar to an H bar 9. Org. that sponsors competitive shooting programs 10. Non-moving character 11. Brick name 12. Organize employees, in a way 13. Created a litter 14. Nos. entered during a phone tree message 19. Guest’s sleeping spot 24. God-like 26. Achieve Zen 28. Model Sewell or Knowles 29. PGA units 31. Hindu sir 35. Immune system element 36. One who sits on a nest egg 37. D-Day craft 39. Like baggy clothes 40. He played Earl in “My Name Is Earl” 41. You are here 42. Citation at the bottom of a business letter: Abbr.

43. Number of the beast minus XVI 47. Pizza chain 49. Home to FC Barcelona and Real Madrid 50. Modest, as a garage 52. Confine to jail 53. Bit of braggadocio 54. Duchess or baron 55. Swerving crime, briefly 57. ___ Jackson Jr. (Ice Cube’s acting son) 60. Sign-stealing ballplayer, casually 62. Prince of Wales Trophy league 64. Need a sick day 65. Rice unit: Abbr.

need answers? get ‘em @toledocitypaper.com www.toledocitypaper.com

By Brendan Emmett Quigley (www.brendanemmettquigley.com)

© Copyright 2021 Rob Brezsny

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Several states in the US have statutes prohibiting blasphemy. Saying “God damn it” could theoretically get you fined in Massachusetts, South Carolina, and Wyoming. In the coming days, it’s best to proceed carefully in places like those, since you’ve been authorized by cosmic forces to curse more often and more forcefully than usual. Why? Because you need to summon vivid and intense protests in the face of influences that may be inhibiting and infringing on your soul’s style.

You have a poetic license to rebel against conventions that oppress you.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Aries poet Anna Kamienska wrote, “I’ve learned to value failed conversations, missed connections, confusions. What remains is what’s unsaid, what’s underneath. Understanding on another level of being.” In the coming weeks, I suggest you adopt her perspective as you evaluate both past and present experiences. You’re likely to find small treasures in what you’d assumed were wastelands. You may uncover inspiring clues in plot twists that initially frustrated you. Upon further examination, interludes you dismissed as unimportant or uninteresting could reveal valuable wrinkles.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): After studying your astrological omens, I’ve decided to offer you inspiration from the ancient Roman poet Catullus. I hope the extravagant spirit of his words will free you to be greedy for the delights of love and affection. Catullus wrote, “Give me a thousand kisses, then a hundred; then another thousand, then a second hundred; then yet another thousand.” I’ll add the following to Catullus’s appeal: Seek an abundance of endearing words, sweet favors and gifts, caresses and massages, help with your work, and fabulous orgasms. If there’s no one in your life to provide you with such blessings, give them to yourself.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Gemini author Elif Batuman writes that the Old Uzbek language was rich in expressions about crying. There were “words for wanting to cry and not being able to, for loudly crying like thunder in the clouds, for crying in gasps, for weeping inwardly or secretly, for crying ceaselessly in a high voice, for crying in hiccups, and for crying while uttering the sound ‘hay hay.’” I recommend all of these to you in the coming days, as well as others you might dream up. Why? It’s prime time to seek the invigorating release and renewal that come from shedding tears generated by deep and mysterious feelings.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): A blogger named MythWoven imagines an “alternate universe where I literally go to school forever (for free) so I can learn about art and literature and history and languages for 100 years. No job skills. No credit requirements. No student loans. Just learning.” I have longings like hers. There’s an eternal student within me that wants to be endlessly surprised with exciting information about interesting subjects.

I would love to be continually adding fresh skills and aptitudes to my repertoire. In the coming weeks, I will give free rein to that part of me. I recommend you do the same, my fellow Cancerian.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): In 2016, the International Garden Photograph of the Year depicted lush lupine flowers in New Zealand. The sea of tall purple, pink, and blue blooms was praised as “an elegant symphony” and “a joy to behold.” What the judges didn’t mention is that lupine is an invasive species in New Zealand. It forces native plant species out of their habitat, which in turn drives away native animal species, including birds like the wrybill, black stilt, and banded dotterel. Is there a metaphorically comparable phenomenon in your life, Leo? Problematic beauty? Some influence that’s both attractive and prickly? A wonderful thing that can also be troublesome? The coming weeks will be a favorable time to try to heal the predicament.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): “I often wonder who I am and where is my country and where do I belong and why was I ever born at all,” wrote Virgo author Jean Rhys (1890–1979). I don’t think you will be agitated by those questions during the next eight weeks, Virgo. In fact, I suspect you will feel as secure in your identity as you have in a long time. You will enjoy prolonged clarity about your role in the world, the nature

September 1 • September 30

of your desires, and how you should plan your life for the next two years. If for some inexplicable reason you’re not already enjoying these developments, stop what you’re doing and meditate on the probability that I am telling you the bold truth.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Everyone dreams at least three dreams per night. In a year, your subconscious mind generates over 1,100 dreams.

About this remarkable fact, novelist Mila Kundera writes, “Dreaming is not merely an act of coded communication. It is also an aesthetic activity, a game that is a value in itself. To dream about things that have not happened is among humanity’s deepest needs.” I bring this to your attention, Scorpio, because September is Honor Your Dreams Month. To celebrate, I suggest the following experiments. 1. Every night before sleep, write down a question you’d like your dreams to respond to. 2. Keep a notebook by your bed and transcribe at least one dream each time you sleep.

3. In the morning, have fun imagining what the previous night’s dreams might be trying to communicate to you. 4.

Say prayers of gratitude to your dreams, thanking them for their provocative, entertaining stories.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): In her autobiography Changing, Sagittarian actor Liv Ullmann expresses grief about how she and a loved one failed to communicate essential truths to each other. I propose we regard her as your anti-role model for the rest of 2021. Use her error as your inspiration. Make emotionally intelligent efforts to talk about unsaid things that linger like ghostly puzzles between you and those you care about.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): “I could do with a bit more excess,” writes author Joanne Harris. “From now on I’m going to be immoderate— and volatile,” she vows. “I shall enjoy loud music and lurid poetry. I shall be rampant.” Let me be clear, Capricorn: I’m not urging you to be immoderate, volatile, excessive, and rampant every day for the rest of your long life. But I think you will generate health benefits and good fortune if you experiment with that approach in the coming weeks. Can you think of relatively sane, sensible ways to give yourself this salubrious luxury?

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): While wading through the internet’s wilder terrain, I found a provocative quote alleged to have been uttered by the ancient Greek philosopher Socrates. He supposedly said, “My ultimate goal is to look totally hot, but not be unapproachable.” I confess that in the past I have sometimes been fooled by fake quotes, and I suspect this is one. Still, it’s amusing to entertain the possibility that such an august personage as Socrates, a major influencer of Western culture, might say something so cute and colloquial. Even if he didn’t actually say it, I like the idea of blending ancient wisdom with modern insights, seriousness with silliness, thoughtful analysis with good fun. In accordance with astrological omens, I recommend you experiment with comparable hybrids in the coming weeks. (PS: One of your goals should be to look totally hot, but not be unapproachable.)

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): “If you don’t know what you want,” writes Piscean novelist Chuck Palahniuk, “you end up with a lot you don’t.” Very true!

And right now, it’s extra important to keep that in mind. During the coming weeks, you’ll be at the peak of your ability to attract what you want and need. Wouldn’t you prefer to gather influences you really desire—as opposed to those for which you have mild or zero interest? Define your wants and needs very precisely.

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Make the Most of Your Summer the Toledo Library Make the Most ofwith Your Summer

with the Toledo Library

BE FAST, even if you’re walking

Runners and walkers can enjoy a brisk autumn race and raise money for stroke patients as part of the BE FAST 5k Run/1 mile walk on Sunday, September 19 in Ottawa Park. Entry fee entitles runners to a t-shirt, snacks, drinks and a free stroke risk assessment. All proceeds will benefit ProMedica’s Stroke Patient Assistance Fund, which helps patients with limited financial needs as a result of a stroke pay for medications, equipment, supplies, transportation and more. $20 per participant until September 5, $25 after.

10am. Ottawa Park Shelter House, 2310 Kenwood Blvd. Register at runsignup.com

Zepf offers CARE 24/7

Individuals having a mental health crisis or thoughts of committing self-harm can reach out for help at any time of day. The Zepf Center has launched its Crisis Services program, with a new Crisis CARE Line and Crisis CARE Mobile Outreach Team available to help 24/7. The program came about after Toledo’s Rescue Mental Health & Addiction Services was forced to close this past June. The Mental Health and Recovery Services Board of Lucas County chose Zepf to continue to provide crisis services. All those with mental health and substance use disorders may call the Crisis CARE Line at 419-904-CARE (2273).

The days are getting shorter. School is starting back up soon. Pumpkins, apple cider, and corn mazes are right around the corner. Squeeze a bit more fun out of your summer with help from the Toledo Lucas County Public Library.

Satisfy your tastebuds.

Planning a picnic or a backyard barbeque?

Be the consummate host with an assist from the Toledo Library. Master the craft of grilling or become a cocktail connoisseur with books from the Library as your guide.

The days are getting shorter. School is starting back up soon. Pumpkins, apple Go on a geocache adventure.

Millions of geocaches are hidden around cider, and corn mazes are right around the world—including at all Toledo Library locations! Begin your adventure by creating the corner.

Squeeze bit more fun out of Make your summeracampfires an account with the Geochaching® app, memorable. your summer with help from the Toledo then start exploring the outdoors at the Nothing beats a fireside hang with family Library. and friends, Public especially Library. when storytelling is Lucas County Take a stroll along a StoryWalk.® Enjoy reading and fun as you wander along a pathway, following signs to the next page in the story. Found at 19 locations, each StoryWalk® provides a new way to experience the grounds and gardens of various Toledo Library locales.

involved. Visit your nearest Library location before your campfire to find funny, silly, and scary stories to share.

Go on a geocache adventure. a summer soundtrack.

MillionsCreate of geocaches are hidden around Create the perfect playlist for your remaining sunny season activities using Freegal Library the world—including at all Toledo Music, a free music service from the Toledo locations!

Begin your ofadventure Library with thousands albums and by Build your backyard oasis. unlimited streaming.

Make the most of the outdoor spacecreating an account with the with the To make the most of your summer around your home using resources availToledo Library, all you need to get started Geochaching® app, then start exploring able from the Library. From landscape is your Library card. Don’t have a card? design and container gardens to do-itRegister online at toledolibrary.org/card the outdoors at the Library. yourself projects, the Library offers books to help you create an outdoor retreat of your own.

and get nearly instant access to all of the Library’s materials.

Take a stroll along a StoryWalk.® Enjoy reading and fun as you wander along a pathway, following signs to the next page in the story. Found at 19 Line Classifieds: Only $20 per issue for 20 words or less. Each additional word is 40 cents each and any artwork is $5 extra. Display StoryWalk® provides a Classifieds: Display classifieds with a box may be purchased locations, for $25 per column inch.each Photos are accepted with ads for an additional $5 per photo. ten spot car lot: Only $10 for 20 word or less that WILL RUN UNTIL CAR SELLS. Each additional word is 40 cents and any artwork is new way to experience grounds and $5 extra. Deadlines: Ad copy must be received by NOON on the Friday prior to publication.Payment: Payment mustthe be received before an ad can be placed. We accept checks, cash, money orders and credit cards (Visa/Mastercard/American Express).Phone: 419-244-9859 EMail: classifieds@adamsstreetpublishing.com Refunds: Sorry, NO gardens REFUNDS given. Misprints: Credit toward future ads. of various Toledo Library locales. help wanted Painting Services Plus LLC Currently hiring experienced residential and commercial painters Contact Alexander Clawson at 419-297-7046

FOR RENT Flexible Stay Studios – Toledo Siegel Suites, 6106 Trust Drive, Holland, OH Beautifully fully furnished Studios. Pet friendly w/ FREE utilities and Free cable. No lease, No Credit Check Required. Earn free days with our REWARDS program. Call now.

419-540-9029 ART STUDIOS to RENT: Downtown.

120-400 sq ft. 11’ ceiling. $90-$195/mo.

INCL utilities/WiFi. River view. Elevator. Free Parking. WORK only. Generous access. 2-D artists ONLY. 419-243-4944 Flexible Stay Studios – Toledo Siegel Suites, 6106 Trust Drive, Holland, OH Beautifully fully furnished Studios. Pet friendly w/ FREE utilities and Free cable. No lease, No Credit Check Required. Earn free days with our REWARDS program. Call now.

419-540-9029

NEEDED Models wanted for Life Drawing group. M/F, 18 yrs+, $17 hr. Undraped.

Group meets 2nd&4th Wednesday of each month. 6-9 p.m. No exp needed. 419243-4944

Announcements Become a Published Author.

We want to Read Your Book! Dorrance Publishing-Trusted by Authors Since 1920 Book manuscript submissions currently being reviewed. Comprehensive Services: Consultation, Production, Promotion and Distribution Call for Your Free Author`s Guide 1-866-482-1576 or visit http:// dorranceinfo.com/macnet

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September 1 • September 30

Build your backyard oasis.

Make the most of the outdoor space around your home using resources available from the Library. From landscape design and container gardens to do-it-yourself projects, the Library offers books to help you create an outdoor retreat of your own.

Satisfy your tastebuds.

Planning a picnic or a backyard barbeque? Be the consummate host with an assist from the Toledo Library.

Master the craft of grilling or become a cocktail connoisseur with books from the Library as your guide.

Make your summer campfires memorable.

Nothing beats a fireside hang with family and friends, especially when storytelling www.toledocitypaper.com is involved. Visit your nearest Library location before your campfire to find funny, silly, and scary stories to share.

www.toledocitypaper.com

September 1 • September 30

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