Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Locally Grown 2019

Special Advertising Section

Businesses built on the hometown advantage

Photos by Kelli Miller and Courtney Probert

Operating local businesses, these Toledo professionals shine as MVPs. These locally-owned businesses maintain their competitive edge by embracing simple strategies—

  • Prioritize consistent quality
  • Play to their strengths
  • Keep open feedback channels
  • Appreciate their team, and
  • Never lose faith in the power of the hometown advantage.

Castillo Funeral Home

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John Castillo, owner

1757 Tremainsville Ave., 1-419-740-6151. Castillofuneral.com
A funeral home which celebrates individuals and focuses on one family at a time.
Since 2016.

Three words to describe your business:
Celebration of life.

What do you love most about your job?
Serving the families of Toledo.

What’s your favorite local luxury?
Promenade Park.

What are three Toledo businesses that you love?
Five Pints Bar & Grille, El Nuevo Vallarta, and the Turner Vault Company.

How do you become a better you?
Taking time to focus not only on business but the families I serve.

What do you want your legacy to be?
That my profession focuses on the celebration of life rather than the usual doom and gloom of the funeral industry.

What’s your purpose, and how did you find it?
To be the rock for families going through hard times. I found my purpose through mentorship with some of the finest funeral directors in the industry.

Where would we find you on a Friday night?
Hensville!

How many emails are in your inbox right now?
Too many!

What’s a tech gadget or app that you couldn’t live without?
My cell phone.

Fairwood Health & Body Transitions

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Jason Peisley, D.C., Owner

5215 Monroe St., Ste. 4. 419-517-1030. Fairwoodhealth.com
A health and weight loss center under one roof.
Since 2013.

How does your business make an impact?
We change lives through natural health solutions and clinical excellence.

How has Toledo changed since the business began?
Businesses really seem to be thriving on Monroe Street. I have seen a big difference with the new influx of businesses.

Three words to describe your business:
Health. Weight-loss. Vitality/Energy.

How do you become a better you?
Helping others but also focusing on your own health. Too often, people put themselves second and see their own health decline.

Where would we find you on a Friday night?
On tennis court with my daughters.

What do you want your legacy to be?
To help as many people with their health and weight as possible knowing it was the “right way”— all-natural!

Sofo’s Italian Market

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Christopher Sofo, Marketing Manager, Sofo Foods of Ohio

5400 Monroe St., 419-882-8555. shopsofos.com
9am-8pm, Monday-Saturday. 11am-5pm, Sunday.
Owners: Mike and Joe Sofo
A family-owned Italian specialty store, serving the Toledo area for over 70 years.
Since the 1950s, when Antonio Sofo and his son, Joe Sofo, opened it.

How does your business make an impact?
We strive to provide the Toledo area with the best in Italian imported products, as well as support a variety of other local food companies by stocking their goods and products on our shelves.

How do you fit into the cultural landscape of Toledo?
As a descendant of Italian immigrants, mine and our family’s goal has always been to provide Toledo with the foods and experiences we grew up with…the tastes and smells of Italian cooking and products that can’t be found at big box stores. We are proud to be a part of the Toledo community and contribute to its diversity by providing a piece of our Italian heritage.

Three words to describe your business:
Family. Passion. Hardworking.

What do you love most about your job?
Working with hardworking, top-quality people every day.

What’s your favorite local luxury?
Running the boat down the Maumee River and stopping by the docks.

How do you become a better you?
Looking up to those who have mentored me, such as my dad and my uncles.

Where would we find you on a Friday night?
Probably at my family’s cottage in the Irish Hills of Michigan.

How many emails are in your inbox right now?
111.

Angie Scott Skin Health

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Angie Scott, Owner, Medical Aesthetician, Certified Laser Technician, Permanent Cosmetic Professional

3409 Sterns Rd., Lambertville, MI. 734-568-6066. angiescottskinhealth.com
9am-5pm, Monday-Tuesday & Thursday. 11am-7pm, Wednesday. 9am-3pm, Friday.
Corrective skin care, laser treatments, non-surgical fat reduction, and permanent make-up in a safe, clinical, comfortable environment.
Since January 2017.

Three words to describe your business:
Competent. Innovative. Experienced.

What are three Toledo businesses that you love?
Only three? Domo, Toledo Yoga, and Renegade Fitness.

What’s your favorite local luxury?
A massage with Suzanne Harshman.

What do you love most about your job?
When my patients see results with their skin that they never thought were possible.

How do I become a better me?
I try to eat right, I try to get plenty of sleep and earlier this year I began meditating every night.

Where would we find you on a Friday night?
Ideally, in my sweats on the couch decompressing from the week!

How many emails are in your inbox right now?
60,970. True Story.

What’s a tech gadget that you couldn’t live without?
My laser. No Contest. It’s my magic wand.

Registry Bistro

 

Photo by Girl in the Glass City
Photo by Girl in the Glass City

Erika & Vickie Rapp, owners

144 N. Superior St., 419-725-0444. registrybistro.com
Bar opens at 4pm and dinner service begins at 5pm. Tuesday-Saturday.
Take 5 Cocktail Hour: 4-6pm, Tuesday – Thursday.
Casual elegant modern midwest dining.
Since 2012.

What do you love most about your job?
We love the opportunity to meet new people and provide memorable experiences for our guests.

How has Toledo changed since the business began?
When Registry opened in 2012 we were one of only a few restaurants in Downtown Toledo. Since 2017, quite a few new restaurants opened in our area, which means there are even more reasons to visit downtown!

How do you fit into the cultural landscape of Toledo?
We are very proud to be part of Downtown Toledo’s revitalization within the entertainment district. We are proud to feature work from local artists on our walls and partner with and support our neighbors, such as River House Gallery and the Toledo Opera.

What’s your purpose, and how did you find it?
We strive to offer a unique experience all for our guests. Whether it is dining on a Wednesday night at our bar enjoying a burger or hosting a couple’s wedding, we want every visit to be memorable. We are thrilled that every member of the Registry Bistro team is as passionate about the guest experience as we both are.

Where would we find you on a Friday night?
At Registry, of course, waiting to serve you!

What are three Toledo businesses that you love?
Flying Rhino Coffee, Mager Design, and Jupmode.

Whiskey & The Wolf

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Tony and George Bardwell

3515 W. Alexis Rd., 419-690-4280. whiskeyandthewolf.com
3-10pm, Monday. 11:30-10pm, Tuesday-Thursday. 11:30am-midnight, Friday-Saturday.
A neighborhood restaurant and bar with approachable food and great whiskey.
Since 2019.

How does your business make an impact?
We offer great food in a friendly environment.

Three words to describe your business:
Passion. Food. Whiskey.

What do you love most about your job?
Creating a concept that people enjoy.

What are three Toledo businesses that you love?
Joseph’s Beverage Center, Dave White Chevrolet, and Handel’s Ice Cream.

How do you become a better you?
Listen and read.

What do you want your legacy to be?
To build great relationships with our people that will allow them to grow through quality restaurants.

Where would we find you on a Friday night?
At Whiskey & The Wolf.

What’s a tech gadget or app that you couldn’t live without?
iPhone.

Heather Downs Country Club

Keith Bourdo, general manager

3910 Heatherdowns Blvd., Heatherdowns.com
Clubhouse: 419-382-3481. Pro Shop: 419-385-0248.
Hours are seasonal.
Toledo’s public country club, with all types of services include weddings, showers, reunions, golf outings, leagues, and more.
Since 1925.

How does your business make an impact?
The growth of Junior Golf.

How has Toledo changed since the business began?
More golf courses and banquet facilities.

How do you fit into the cultural landscape of Toledo?
We’ve been part of Toledo’s history for nearly a century.

Three words to describe your business:
Challenging. Competitive. Seasonal.

Where would we find you on a Friday night?
At home with my family.

How many emails are in your inbox right now?
Too many.

What’s a tech gadget or app that you couldn’t live without?
My smart watch and my Fitbit.

The Tip Jar

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Tim Tiderman, spiritual pilot of the Tip Jar
201 Morris St., 419-243-1302. mbaybrew.com
7-10pm, Wednesday.
A live jazz and blues music venue that includes food and spirits.
Since June 12, 2019.

How does your business make an impact?
The impact of the Tip Jar is to provide a venue for a truly eclectic mix of great listening music that is currently not being heard anywhere in the area. The Hammond organ based group is unique to Toledo’s music scene.

Three words to describe your business:
Unique. Funky. Cool.

What’s your favorite local luxury?
The wide range of cultural events that a person can take advantage of. From the Toledo Zoo to the Art Museum and all of the great outdoor venues around the area such as the Perrysburg Farmers Market, you can do something different every day.

What are three Toledo businesses that you love?
Wixey’s Bakery— I’ve been stopping in there since 1969. Cherry St Mission— they are doing the most important work of anyone. The Express Airport and the Toledo Lucas County Port Authority— they work tirelessly to make Toledo more accessible to the world around us.

How do you become a better you?
That is a question that everyone should be asking, every day of their lives. There are lots of answers and as many ways as there are people but, to me, it starts with who I am in the presence of. What kind of people do I allow into my life? Good people will lead me toward good outcomes. Bad people will bring out the bad in me every time. Not their fault. Never mistake your decision to do the wrong thing with the idea that someone talked you into it. You always have the ability to say “no”.

What’s a tech gadget or app that you couldn’t live without?YouTube. The ability to search for a video about tying a bow tie and then with a few clicks find yourself two hours later watching a documentary about Sister Rosetta Tharp, and then on to a how-to about repairing your dryer! What a resource. I have spent many an hour bewitched by it— and it’s free!

Georgjz419 Fun Food & Spirits

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George Thompson, owner

1205 Adams St., 419-842-4477. facebook.com/GeorgjzToledo
4pm-2am, Monday-Saturday. 11am-2am, Sunday.
Fun, food and spirits where everyone is welcome without prejudice.
Since 2016.

How does your business make an impact?
We offer a place where a diverse array of cultures and people can join together.

How has Toledo changed since the business began?
There has been a growing acceptance of individuals without judgment.

How do you fit into the cultural landscape of Toledo?
Born and bred in Toledo, like a beautiful flower.

Three words to describe your business:
Fun. Food. Spirits.

What do you love most about your job?
My staff and clientele.

What’s your favorite local luxury?
Spending time with family and friends.

What are three Toledo businesses that you love?
The Village on Adams, the Toledo Museum of Art and the Toledo Zoo.

How do you become a better you?
Understanding the needs of the community and participating in it to make a difference.

What do you want your legacy to be?
Giving back and making a difference in the community.

What’s your purpose, and how did you find it?
I saw a need in Toledo for equality for all.

Where would we find you on a Friday night?
Meeting and greeting clientele at Georgjez419!

How many emails are in your inbox right now?
Too many!

What’s a tech gadget or app that you couldn’t live without?
Cell phone.

Smokey’s BBQ Roadhouse

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Joey Carlo, owner

2092 Woodville Rd., Oregon. 419-725-2888. facebook.com/smokeysbbqroadhouse. smokeysbbq.restaurantwebexpert.com
11am-9pm, Sunday-Wednesday. 11am-10:30pm, Thursday-Friday.
Proudly serving homemade, local and fresh BBQ.
Since 2015.

How does your business make an impact?
It makes people come together to enjoy food and conversation. Plus, they leave full and relaxed.

How do you fit into the cultural landscape of Toledo?
I am from here, using local products, and serving the community.

What do you love most about your job?
I really enjoy seeing people eat and enjoy good food.

What’s your favorite local luxury?
Concerts and the Toledo Zoo, Huntington Center, or with ProMedica.

What are three Toledo businesses that you love?
The Toledo Farmers Market, Libbey Glass, and Tank’s Meats.

How do you become a better you?
Self-educate daily and improve self-representation.

What do you want your legacy to be?
Honest, hardworking and thoughtful.

Where would we find you on a Friday night?
At Smokey’s BBQ mingling with customers.

How many emails are in your inbox right now?
100+.

Beacon Associates

 

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Rhonda and Steven Wise, President & Vice President

1755 Indian Wood Crc., Maumee. 419-482-0280. beaconexperts.com
9am-5:30pm, Monday-Thursday. 9am-4pm. Friday.
Guiding Toledoans to make the best possible choices in finance and insurance.
Since 2004.

How does your business make an impact?
Beacon is an education-first business and we are known for our educational process. We make sure our clients understand their options so they can make the best decisions for themselves, and by themselves, with the education we provide to them. Whether it is choices for their Medicare plans, their retirement, or whatever the case may be, “knowledge is power” and the impact is felt. It’s rewarding to us when our clients refer their family or friends to us because they had a positive experience with Beacon and felt comfortable knowing that we would take care of their loved ones. Our clients are our extended family, and their referrals show that the feeling is mutual.

How many emails are in your inbox right now?
Only three— my O.C.D. doesn’t allow these to accumulate, unless I am on vacation and can’t access them. It drives me nuts! I look at my emails at home at night and, sometimes, I can’t stop myself from replying. Typically, my clients are happy to receive a response, but others will say, “aren’t you at home? Why are you answering my email? Tomorrow is fine— have some wine and go to bed!”

What are three Toledo businesses that you love?
Toledo Chop House— Beef Wellington and Chop House Martinis And Whiskey Sours are the best! Mancy’s Bluewater Grille— their selection of oysters are the best in town! Sheffield Road— the best little shopping place for gifts. Did you notice that they all revolve around eating, drinking and retail therapy?

Three words to describe your business:
Authentic— what you see is what you get. For long-term success, it’s essential that a business can build trust with customers, and the easiest way to do that is to show who you are and what you care about.

Adaptive— the single and most powerful element that any successful company can have is adaptability. While being innovative tells customers that you can do something new once, being adaptive tells them you can continue to keep up with the market’s demands.

Consistent— consistent, amazing output is the core reason consumers keep coming back to your brand. As you become more successful, it’s because your consistency continues to hold true, allowing more people to rely on your great output.

How do you become a better you?
This is a tough one. It’s been a long road to whom I have become today, but I recently started listening to myself and really paying attention to hear all the things around me. It took a while to learn this or allow myself to learn it (and I am still learning every day). It’s so easy to get consumed in the negativity that’s in the world today. You need to stop and listen; meditation is a wonderful thing for your mind a soul. Self-awareness and reflection are key to becoming a better you. It was for me.

Where would we find you on a Friday night?
Hanging out at home. Enjoying family and our beloved dogs Molly and Daisy. Did I say wine? Also, with an occasional marshmallow.

What’s your purpose, and how did you find it?
I am not sure if I know my purpose on Earth, that’s a hard question. What I can say is that I find helping people to be very rewarding— not in a monetary sense, but a soulful and spiritual way. I am truly the happiest when I help others. When I look back at all of the different jobs and roles I’ve held in my life— grocery bagger, owning a flower shop, a bakery, a dry cleaning business, working as a teacher, realtor, mtg loan processor, insurance broker and agency co-owner with my husband Steven— the most rewarding role is being a wife and mom. And, when I look at what all of those jobs have in common, the thing that stands out is that they all help people in one way or another. So, that’s my purpose.

The Boerst Law Office

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Bruce W. Boerst Jr., Esq., owner

413 N. Michigan St., 1(855)ToledoLaw. legaltoledo.com
Personal Injury and Criminal Defense Law Firm
Since 2009.

How does your business make an impact?
“At his best, man is the noblest of all animals; separated from law and justice he is the worst.” – Aristotle. At The Boerst Law Office, we spend every day fighting for justice for THE PEOPLE! Our personal injury practice is dedicated to representing individuals who have been seriously injured as a result of someone else’s negligence. Often, this puts us up against “big business” who try very hard to interfere with an individuals’ right to justice and fair compensation. Our criminal defense practice focuses on providing top-notch legal representation for individuals facing all levels of criminal and/or traffic charges. We believe in individual rights and liberties and are tireless champions for justice and the 7th Amendment (Right to Trial by Jury).

How has Toledo changed since the business began?
Toledo is like a fine wine…better with age. Toledo has been and will always be my home.

Three words to describe your business:
“Law, Done Differently.”

What do you love most about your job?
As one can imagine, rarely are lawyers contacted with good news. Rather, people typically contact us only during those times in which they are in serious need of legal representation and/or find themselves lost in either the civil and/or criminal justice system. We, at The Boerst Law Office, are humbly granted the opportunity to assist people throughout the most difficult time(s) of their lives.

What’s your favorite local luxury?
The ability to navigate just about anywhere within 25 minutes.

What are three Toledo businesses that you love?
The Village Idiot. Toledo Zoo. Walleye/Hens, baby!

How do you become a better you?
Along with a never-ending thirst for knowledge, I’d say my self-improvement requires honest self-reflection and surrounding myself with truly incredible and inspiring people.

What do you want your legacy to be?
Personally, I hope my children will always remember me as a caring and loving father and husband. Professionally, I pray that my clients will always know that I care(d) about each and every single one of them.

Where would we find you on a Friday night?
If I am not snuggled up on the couch with my family on a Friday night (the usual), you might find me listening to some of the best local musicians at The Village Idiot.

What’s a tech gadget or app that you couldn’t live without?
Waze. Man, I love Waze!

The Casual Pint

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Bill Burkett

3550 Executive Pkwy., 419-469-8965. Thecasualpint.com
3-10pm, Monday-Wednesday. Noon-midnight, Thursday-Saturday. Noon-8pm, Sunday.
Helping local breweries get products to consumers.
Since 2018.

How does your business make an impact?
100 years ago, breweries were common in most Toledo neighborhoods. Over time, these local breweries closed. At Casual Pint, we help local breweries get products to local consumers.

How has Toledo changed since the business began?
More and more people in NW Ohio are willing to try local craft beers. There is a new appreciation of local craftsman and this market allows local craft beers to be available outside of the sampling rooms where the beers are produced.

How do you fit into the cultural landscape of Toledo?
Craft beer has its own local culture and the level of cooperation between brewers is impressive. It’s almost like they don’t compete with each other and know that by cooperating, they can save money AND make a better product.

Three words to describe your business:
Unique. Casual. Fun.

What do you love most about your job?
Building relationships with brewers, introducing brews to customers and meeting with customers to hear what they think.

What’s your favorite local luxury?
Toledo is a big small town. Because of that connections are easier to make.

What are the Toledo businesses that you love?
All the hard-working brewers doing what they love.

How do you become a better you?
Opening at least one more, maybe two more Casual Pints. That would allow us to better serve the wide range in beer tastes, all age groups and wider food choices.

What do you want your legacy to be?
Helping breweries introduce their beers to the community.

What’s your purpose, and how did you find it?
Purpose – Casual Pint was an opportunity to become part of the local craft brew culture. I saw the ability to make the connection between the multiple small breweries and the public that was craving the chance to try new beers.

Where would we find you on a Friday night?
You will find me at the Pint.

What’s a tech gadget or app that you couldn’t live without?
We absolutely pay attention to social media including restaurant reviews. Like us on Facebook and come out and enjoy a Casual Pint.

Cocina de Carlos

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Carlos Mendez, owner

27072 Carronade Dr., Perrysburg. 419-872-0200. carlosrestaurants.com
11am-9pm, Sunday-Thursday. 11am-10pm, Friday-Saturday.
Inspired by family.
Since 2010.

How has Toledo changed since the business began?
Toledo has changed a lot, especially in food and restaurants, with a high quality offer and an excellent variety of restaurants for an increasingly demanding clientele.

How does your business make an impact:
We are always trying to be part of the community, helping in noble causes, sharing our pride in being Latino and promoting the consumption of local products.

Three words to describe your business:
Authentic. Fresh. Honest.

Whats your favorite local Luxury?
Downtown Perrysburg haha

What are three Toledo businesses that you love?
Belamere Suites. Balance Pan Grille. Holy Toledough Doughnuts

How many emails are in your inbox?
98.

What’s a tech gadget or app that you couldn’t live without?
Cellphone and maps haha

Where would we find you on a Friday night?
Working!!!!!!!!!!! in my restaurant or my backyard.

Dunright Building Services, Inc.

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Bill McConnell, owner

1057 Custer Dr., 419-537-7465. dunrightbuildingservices.com
9am-5pm, Monday-Friday. By appointment on Saturday.
A local and national award-winning company declared to providing the best experience possible.
Since 2011.

How does your business make an impact?
We offer products and services that everyone can afford.

How has Toledo changed since the business began?
Our neighbors all seem to be doing better economically.

How do you fit into the cultural landscape of Toledo?
We support several local charities, i.e. Open Door Ministry, Restoration Church, etc.

Three words to describe your business:
Knowledgeable. Honest. Fair.

What are three Toledo businesses that you love?
Ok [Hot] Sizzling Wok, Directions Credit Union, Dave White Cheverlot

How do you become a better you?
Always reading on how others became & maintained their success.

What do you want your legacy to be?
That we leave behind a model for others. That we leave behind a model for other contractors; that a profitable business can be run with compassion, integrity and determination.

Where would we find you on a Friday night?
Charlie’s Tavern in Maumee with my wonderful wife, Robin.

How many emails are in your inbox right now?
237

What’s a tech gadget or app that you couldn’t live without?
Text messaging.

The Original Gino’s Pizza

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Chuck Kreutz, owner

Toledo locations: 3981 Monroe St., 419-472-3567. 1280 W. Alexis Rd., 419-269-4466. 5307 Monroe St., 419-843-3567.
Perrysburg: 26597 N. Dixie Hwy., 419-874-9170.
Northwood: 2670 Woodville Rd., 419-690-4466.
Maumee: 449 W. Dussel, Maumee. 419-897-4466.
originalginos.com
Hours vary by location.
Great pizza tradition.
Since the Sparagowski Brothers in 1953.

How does your business make an impact?
Between sponsorships, donations and support of events and races, we give back every year.

Three words to describe your business:
Best pizza ever!

What do you love most about your job?
Engaging with the customers and creating new concepts; playing with food.

What’s your favorite local luxury?
Massage.

Where would we find you on a Friday night?
Behind my desk.

How many emails are in your inbox right now?
Too many.

What’s a tech gadget or app that you couldn’t live without?
iPhone.

Great Lakes Collaborative for Autism (GLCA)

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Renee Palacios, Executive Director

2040 W. Central Ave. 419-291-7031. greatlakesautism.org
Open by appointment.
Inspiring the growth of opportunities that will create a limitless future for all touched by autism.
Since 2004.

How did your organization begin?
More than 50 years ago, Bob and Suzy Tyner knew their two-year-old son was different. He wasn’t like other children. They took him to numerous professionals and no one could tell them what was wrong. After 10 years of searching for an answer, the Tyners finally learned that their son had autism.

Through their generosity and love for their son, they created the Great Lakes Center for Autism through the Tyner Foundation in 2004. The Tyners do not want other parents to travel the difficult path they had to take to get a diagnosis before they could help their son. They established the organization as a loving tribute to their son and all people with autism and their families.

In 2011, The Great Lakes Center for Autism changed its name to Great Lakes Collaborative for Autism (GLCA) to reflect the community commitment to working together. Since its inception, the GLCA has raised and distributed millions of dollars, launching several programs into the community and keeping an eye on emerging needs and identifying gaps in services.

Describe your business in one sentence.
Our Mission: Inspire the growth of opportunities that will create a limitless future for all touched by autism.

How does your organization make an impact?
Autism is a spectrum disorder that affects individuals differently and to varying degrees with 1 in 59 children receiving the diagnosis. GLCA is the facilitator of APN, the Autism Provider Network, bringing together autism programs and services across northwest Ohio, to ensure a flow and connection of information and services to benefit individuals and families affected by autism. We conduct a Community Needs Assessment to determine what direction the community could move to address needs identified and work with partners to fill service gaps.

How has Toledo changed since the business began?
One of the challenges the Tyner family experienced after their son was diagnosed with autism, was that providers of services worked in “silos.” The was a lack of knowledge between providers of resources, and a general lack of a continuum of care existed in Toledo. Today, through the work of GLCA and APN, service providers know each other, know of specialty areas and this networking has had a huge impact on the quality of care families and individuals affected by autism, receive today.

What do you love most about your job?
As a parent with a child with autism, I love talking with other parents about their journey and being part of the solution to resource gaps in our community. Watching service and program providers work together, refer clients between programs and talk about challenges has been very rewarding. The ability to combine my professional experience with program innovation and fundraising with my personal passion for people with autism has been the highlight of my career. Watching new resources begin from the Needs Assessment that includes input from families and people with autism is amazing!

What are three Toledo businesses that you love?
I wonder if people in Toledo realize how resource rich and compassionate our community really is. We have some incredible nonprofit organizations in our community that fill huge needs with dedicated staff and volunteers, on shoestring budgets. I can’t single out my favorite organizations but, can promise, whatever your passion is, whatever you are motivated to make a difference, you can find a local nonprofit doing great work for our neighbors.

How do you become a better you?
I think adversity, mistakes and the trials of life, teach you and make you a better person if you can be honest with yourself and keep perspective. Don’t take yourself too seriously. Brush off negativity. Always remember, tomorrow is an opportunity to start over and take the lessons you learned today, with you.

What do you want your legacy to be?
As a servant leader with compassion. A fierce advocate for the voiceless. Someone who wasn’t perfect but worked hard to serve the community with the best of intentions and with integrity. A great Mom – yeah, I’d love to think that’s my legacy too!

What’s your purpose, and how did you find it?
I think our purpose in life, is to find the gifts and talents we are given and give them away to enhance our world. My career started with working with domestic violence survivors and I just felt a deep sense of empathy for their situation and their feeling of being trapped in abuse. I remember being so angry with victim blaming and shaming, that I loved advocacy work and community education. It is the ability to relate to the feelings of others, without judgement, that helped me realize I would be a lifelong advocate for people who could not advocate for themselves.

Where would we find you on a Friday night?
Ha! Not very exciting – I’m probably at your local Costco, stocking up to feed my house of boys for the weekend (and all their friends).

Toledo Biomat USA, Inc.

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Steven Steinmetz, Center Manager

3217 Dorr St., 419-531-3332. Grifolsplasma.com
8am-6:30pm, Monday. 7am-6:30pm, Tuesday-Friday. 7am-5pm, Saturday. 7am-3:30pm, Sunday.
Part of a global health care company with a legacy of improving people’s health and well-being through the development of life-saving plasma medicines.
Since 2005.

How does your business make an impact?
Biomat employs 40 full-time employees from the local area. No experience is necessary and starting wages are above current minimum wage. Toledo Biomat collects Human Plasma to make life-saving medications that can only be produced from Human Plasma Proteins, without which, the quality of life for millions of people would be greatly impacted.

How do you fit into the cultural landscape of Toledo?
Toledo Biomat is very proud of its cultural diversity within both our donor and employee populations, we are a true representation of the community in which we operate.

Three words to describe your business:
Pride. Passion. Innovation.

What do you love most about your job?
It has to be the people! Our donors are amazing with their selfless commitment to saving lives, and our employees are amongst the most dedicated and caring in the industry.

What’s your favorite local luxury?
Lake Erie, it is a beautiful amazing resource right in our own backyard.

What’s your purpose, and how did you find it?
I feel at my best when I am serving others, I spent many years in the Fire / EMS service and believe that is where I began to realize the importance and the gratification of helping those in need. My current position with Toledo Biomat provides me with the same opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of others.

How many emails are in your inbox right now?
Wayyyyyyyyyyy too many!

Toledo Home Pros

Home-Pros

Gross Electric
Laurie Gross, president
2807 N. Reynolds Rd., 419-537-1818. grosselectric.com
9am-6pm, Monday-Friday. 9am-4pm, Saturday.

What year did your business open, and who opened it?
1910 George J. Gross my grandfather.

Describe your business in one sentence.
Distributor & Retailer of Lighting Fixtures & Electrical Supplies.

How does your business make an impact?
In the lighting end of the business, we help people “see”! People think that lighting is just about a “pretty fixture”, but there is a lot of science in lighting design. And we help people light their spaces correctly so that they can “see”. We help them get the most out of the lighting in their home or business.

How has Toledo changed since the business began?
At one time we had 7 branches, just in downtown Toledo, now we have 4 and they’re spread over 45 miles. The customer base has expanded geographically.

How do you fit into the cultural landscape of Toledo?
We’ve been here for 109 years, for our 100th anniversary we counted how many employees we have had over the years, it was well over 5,000 people. People constantly tell us they had a relative work for us at one time.

What do you love most about your job?
Working with our employees and our customers.

What’s your favorite local luxury?
Eating out at great restaurants. Exploring our parks.

What are three Toledo businesses that you love?
Karnik Pet Lodge, Sautter’s Grocery, Claudia’s Health Food store

Where would we find you on a Friday night?
Either in front of my computer working, or taking a walk with the dog in Wildwood.

How many emails are in your inbox right now?
50.

What’s a tech gadget or app that you couldn’t live without?
My Bluetooth headphones.

Toledohomepros.com
Toledo Home Pros is a collaborative of locally owned businesses providing home remodeling and decorating products and services, including Carpets by Otto, Cutting Edge Countertops, Gross Electric, Jamiesons Audio/Video, and Quality Overhead Door. Each member of Toledo Home Pros has been deeply rooted in the Toledo community for decades, understanding that supporting local businesses is important to the overall growth and success of the area.

HLS Orthodontics

dr.-hansen

Sarah Hansen, orthodontist

Sylvania: 6407 Monroe St., 419-882-1017.
Lambertville, MI: 7928 Secor Rd., 734-854-6221.
Maumee: 4359 Keystone Dr. Suite 200, 419-887-1247.
9am-7pm, Monday. 8am-5:30p, Tuesday-Thursday. 9am-noon, Friday (calls only).
Perfectbraces.com
Enhancing smiles and supporting the community.
Since 1981

How does your business make an impact?
A smile can make a huge difference in someone’s life! By straightening teeth, we help patients gain confidence in themselves. People want to show off their teeth much more after the braces come off, and everyone deserves a smile they’re proud of.

How do you fit into the cultural landscape of Toledo?
While people often associate orthodontic treatment with braces and children, we know that Toledo is filled with people of all ages who are interested in improving their smiles. We offer a diverse set of treatment options because we know that Toledo is diverse! We have standard metal brackets, clear brackets, Invisalign, and even brackets with fun shapes.

What do you love most about your job?
I love meeting new people and deciding what type of treatment is best for each patient. Every patient is different, and customizing each one’s treatment plan is almost like a puzzle. It’s fun putting together a plan that will accomplish all of the goals that I and the patient have for their teeth.

What’s your favorite local luxury?
I’m a coffee drinker, and I love supporting Toledo coffee shops. My favorite drink is a soy cappuccino, and when I need a caffeine boost, I try to find a new cafe in the area.

How do you become a better you?
I make time for my favorite hobby— running! Running keeps me in shape, physically and mentally, and I love the feeling I get every time I cross the finish line of a race. I support a lot of the local runs, so you might see me out on the course!

What’s a tech gadget or app that you couldn’t live without?
I feel like something is missing whenever I’m not wearing my Apple watch. My parents and brother all have watches and they track our standing and movement goals throughout the day. When I don’t have my watch on, my steps aren’t tracked, and I don’t want my family to outstep me!

Infinite Art Tattoo

monk

Monk Taylor, owner

3930 Secor Rd., 419-292-1990. Iatattoo.com
Noon-8pm, daily.
Quality tattoos and friendly staff.
Since 1994.

How has Toledo changed since the business began?
Better city pride, more artists and a growing downtown.

How do you fit into the cultural landscape of Toledo?
We help create trends and make tattoos more acceptable.

What do you love most about your job?
I get to do what I love and help people.

What are three Toledo businesses that you love?
Jupmode, The Art Supply Depo, and Barrys.

What do you want your legacy to be?
Making a positive impact on people’s lives.

Where would we find you on a Friday night?
On a patio drinking margs. Or, in bed!

What’s a tech gadget or app that you couldn’t live without?
My iPhone.

Jing Chuan Restaurant

Joni&Wesley_CProbert

James and Karen Sun, owners
Joni and Wesley Sun (General Managers, pictured)

4424 Secor Rd., 419-472-9612. jingchuanrestaurant.com
11:30am-2:30pm & 4:30-9:30pm, Tuesday-Thursday. 11:30am-2:30pm & 4:30-10:30pm, Friday. 4:30-10:30pm, Saturday. 11:30am-9pm, Sunday.
A Chinese restaurant with one basic concept in mind— Making delicious food from scratch with only the freshest ingredients, everyday.
Since 1985.

How has Toledo changed since the business began?
Jing Chuan opened its doors in 1985 by Shanteh and Peiying Sun. The restaurateur couple immigrated from Korea ultimately landing in Toledo with hopes of seeking better opportunities for their family. 34 years and three generations later, Jings is still proudly serving NW Ohio and SE Michigan.

Over the course of three decades there has been many changes but I think one of the biggest is that Toledo has become more adventurous in their food choices. Back in the 80s and 90s most people wanted the basic Chinese American favorites like sweet and sour chicken, General Tso and chop suey etc., but now with access to the internet and YouTube, many want to try more ethnic cuisines from different countries.

How do you fit into the cultural landscape of Toledo?
Besides bringing diversity into the city, we give Toledoans access to Chinese cuisine without having to travel across the world.

Three words to describe your business:
Authentic. Family-owned. Homemade.

What do you love most about your job?
We love the whole aspect of entertaining and bringing people together through the love of food. Meeting new guests, learning about them and making a special connection with our locals if what keeps us doing it day in and day out.

What are three Toledo businesses that you love?
Holey Toledough. Kotobuki. All Juice.

How do you become a better you?
Keep an open mind, be kind and respectful of others and really strive to do what you love; because once you find that then the rest will follow.

What’s your purpose, and how did you find it?
When you have a restaurant, I guess feeding and nurturing people with our food would probably be our main purpose but it also goes hand in hand with entertaining. The restaurant industry comes easy to us because it has always been intertwined with our lives, extending back to when our great grandparents owned several restaurants overseas.

How many emails are in your inbox right now?
583.

Where would we find you on a Friday night?
On a Friday night we would usually be at Jings for after hours. It usually involves cracking a bottle of wine, cooking food and good conversations.

What’s a tech gadget or app that you couldn’t live without?
Instagram.

Jonathon Khoi Nail Spa

Jonathon-Khoi

Vinh To & Donna Le, owners

132 Chesterfield Ln., 419-887-1862. JKnailspa.com
9am-7pm, Monday-Friday. 9am-5pm, Saturday.
Clean, friendly and professional service in a friendly environment.
Since 2001.

How does your business make an impact?
JKNS is changing the nail industry and what clients have come to expect of nail salons. We offer a cleaner, friendlier, and more professional environment. We are also offering and environment and culture that allows our team to thrive and grow professionally.

How has Toledo changed since the business began?
We love to see the positive direction Toledo is heading. Seems like Toledo is going through a revitalization.

Three words to describe your business:
Clean. Friendly. Professional.

What do you love most about your job?
As cliché as it sounds, we love how we can make a difference in people’s lives. Whether it’s putting a smile on a client’s face or creating and environment where our team members can succeed and change their own family tree.

What are three Toledo businesses that you love?
Lenhart Orthodontics. Kengo Sushi & Yakitori. Carefree Irrigation.

How do you become a better you?
It’s cheesy, but we want to be the happiest we can be. We realize that what makes us happiest is the relationship we have with the people in our lives. We want to be surrounded by happy positive people that help each other and celebrate each other’s success.

What’s your purpose, and how did you find it?
To be the happiest we can be. We try to surround ourselves around good, positive people so we can help each other win in life.

Where would we find you on a Friday night?
At home with our kids.

La Fiesta Mexican Restaurant

la-fiesta

Luis Arturo Fuentes, founder and owner

1406 Reynolds Rd, Maumee. 419-897-9222. lafiestarestaurante.com
11am-10pm, Monday-Thursday. 11am-11pm, Friday-Saturday. 11am-9pm, Sunday.
Taking pride in making fresh, delicious food, giving the best service and making all of our customers feel like they’re family, and creating a happy atmosphere.
Since 2001.

What’s your purpose, and how did you find it?
At the beginning of 2001, I was a part owner (and manager) of a restaurant in Champaign, Illinois that I started in 1998 with other partners. I was part owner and manager but after a while it was not what I was looking for. I didn’t really care for the partnership so I decided to go on my own and look for a building to open my own restaurant. I started driving from Champaign through various towns, talking to multiple real estate people, before eventually coming to Troy. There was already a Mexican restaurant for three years where La Fiesta stands today, and I knew the owner, so I stopped to visit him and tell him my intentions and about what I was doing in Troy. He told me that he could sell me the restaurant, so we talked numbers and made a deal and that’s how everything started. The first day that I took over was June 1, 2001, and it took a lot of time and hard work, but eventually the business grew to such an extent that I was able to expand the restaurant with a patio, a bar room, and an upstairs balcony.

The reason that we opened the restaurant in Maumee was because of my two brothers, Carlos and Jonny, who back then were working in Champaign, Illinois for the Mexican restaurant that I had originally opened in 1998. They wanted to come and be a part of La Fiesta, and that’s how everything started in Maumee. So it was me and my two brothers who opened it on October 4th, 2010.

How does your business make an impact?
By providing good quality food and a unique experience that citizens of Maumee and the surrounding areas are unable to get elsewhere in the area. Besides being actively involved in the community by helping and sponsoring.

Three words to describe your business:
We work by the motto “calidad, rapidez y limpieza.” (Quality, speed, and cleanliness.)

The Lakewoods Apartments

lakewoods

Edith Miller, manager

2125 Arlington Ave., 419-380-8079. lakewoodapts.com
8am-5pm, Monday-Friday.
Affordable housing for seniors.
Since 2000.

How does your business make an impact?
We provide affordable housing to seniors 55+.

How has Toledo changed since the business began?
A lot more attention to the downtown area!

How do you fit into the cultural landscape of Toledo?
We are located in a historic building. We are the former Maumee Valley Hospital which eventually became UTMC!

Three words to describe your business:
Safe. Clean. Affordable.

What do you love most about your job?
Never the same twice.

What’s your favorite local luxury?
The Toledo Museum of Art and the Toledo Zoo.

What are three Toledo businesses that you love?
TMA, Toledo Zoo, and the Metroparks.

What’s your purpose, and how did you find it?
Providing safe and clean housing for seniors.

Where would we find you on a Friday night?
Home.

How many emails are in your inbox right now?
Four.

What’s a tech gadget or app that you couldn’t live without?
Cell phone and Best Fiends game.

LBs Circuit Training

lbs

Lindsay Bowman, owner

2715 W Central Ave. 419-279-5921. LBs419.com
4:45am-12:50pm & 3:45-9pm, Monday-Thursday. 4:45am-12:50pm & 3:45-7pm, Friday. 5:45am-1pm, Saturday. 7:45am-10:30am & 3:45-6:30pm, Sunday.
Circuit Training designed for ALL ages, shapes, sizes and fitness levels in a Good Vibes Only atmosphere.
Since 2015.

How does your business make an impact?
We provide a “good vibes only” atmosphere that is designed to be welcoming to everyone! We have 17 different types of classes and 70 classes per week, so everyone can find something that motivates them. We also offer 3-4 local, charity events for our members to be a part of every month!

Three words to describe your business:
Positive. Family. Movement.

What do you love most about your job?
The people that walk in our doors everyday!

How do you become a better you?
Keep learning, keep working hard and remember to take some time for myself.

What’s your purpose, and how did you find it?
Growing up my Dad continuously told me to find a career that helps people and makes a difference. I feel blessed to be able to live out his advice.

Where would we find you on a Friday night?
Happy Hour Circuit at the gym!!

What’s a tech gadget or app that you couldn’t live without?
LBs App 🙂

Schmucker’s Restaurant

schmuckers

Patty and Doug Schmucker, owners

2103 N. Reynolds Rd., 419-535-9116. schmuckersrestaurant.com
5am-11pm, Monday-Saturday.
A third generation diner serving homemade food and over 20 kinds of made-from-scratch pies.
Since 1948.

What is the significance of your business’s name?
It is my family name.

What’s your relationship with the founder of the business?
Harvey and Nola Schmucker were my grandparents.

Why is your business in Toledo?
My grandfather moved to “the big city” from a farm in Stryker, Ohio 4.

How does Toledo bring you success?
Toledo loves it hometown businesses. Toledo’s support is amazing and is what has helped us make to our 70th anniversary.

What’s something unique about your business that people might not know?
Our 70 year-old pay phone is our business phone.

How does your business make an impact?
We believe in giving back to the community. Cherry Street Mission Ministries and Sunshine Communities are two of our favorites.

How have you seen your industry change?
30 years ago there were just a handful of restaurants serving breakfast. Now, almost every fast food place is offering food in the morning. Also, 30 years ago gas stations serviced your car, pumped your gas and sold candy. Today, many folks buy lunch from them too.

What has been one of the biggest disappointments, and one of the highest achievements, during your career?
My one disappointment was 40 years ago when I charged a customer 10 cents for raisins in his oatmeal. He said he’d never be back again. I think I’ve been successful in navigating the challenging and changing landscape of social media.

How do you stay inspired?
Each time a customer shares their appreciation for what we are doing here in fills my tank.

How do you know when you’re done for the day?
I am comfortable leaving when all the staff feel they are in a good place to provide Good Food and exceptional service to the customers.

What’s one of the best lessons you’ve learned through your business?
God is good all the time.

What’s your favorite part of interacting with customers?
I love hearing the stories of their life’s journey and offering words of encouragement. I also get excited hearing stories of Schmucker’s of yesteryears.

Sew-N-Such

Sew-N-Such

Mary Cianci, owner

Address: 1242 W. Sylvania Ave., 419-478-5455.
sew-n-such.com

9am-6:30om, Monday & Thursday. 9am-5:30pm, Tuesday & Friday. 9am-noon, Wednesday & Saturday.
Sewing and alterations— fix it & make it fit.
Since 1985.

How does your business make an impact?
Saves people money and make them look good.

How has Toledo changed since the business began?
Not in my industry.

How do you fit into the cultural landscape of Toledo?
We serve all, always have.

Three words to describe your business:
Cheerful. Chatty. Honest.

What do you love most about your job?
Never knowing what item will come through the door from plain to bizarre.

What’s your favorite local luxury?
Manicure & Pedicure at Universal Nails.

What are three Toledo businesses that you love?
Mancy’s, Sofo’s & Nuero.

What do you want your legacy to be?
Always available to fix and mend a customers challenge.

What’s your purpose, and how did you find it?
Couldn’t sing or dance, so I sew.

Where would we find you on a Friday night?
Out to eat.

How many emails are in your inbox right now?
800+ unopened

What’s a tech gadget or app that you couldn’t live without?
Google Chrome

Sidelines

Sidelines_Eric_KMiller_LocallyGrown_061919

Eric Sitter, owner

5806 Telegraph Rd., 419-724-0097.
2111 Mellwood Ave., 419-474-0000.
6060 Renaissance Pl., 419-724-1800.
sidelinessportseatery.com
11am-11pm, Monday-Wednesday. 11am-midnight, Thursday-Saturday. Noon-11pm, Sunday.
Locally owned and operated with concentration on quality food made with only the best ingredients, while providing comfort energetic for all.
Since 2001.

How does your business make an impact?
Involved with local schools sports.

How do you fit into the cultural landscape of Toledo?
Menu is diverse and welcomes and incorporates all.

Three words to describe your business:
Comfortable. Energetic. Value.

What do you love most about your job?
Building a team of employees that share your passion.

What’s your favorite local luxury?
Hollywood Casino.

What are three Toledo businesses that you love?
Ahmed’s Steakhouse.

What do you want your legacy to be?
Company that treated employees and customers like family.

Where would we find you on a Friday night?
Dining at a local establishment with family or at the Mudhens.

How many emails are in your inbox right now?
50.

What’s a tech gadget or app that you couldn’t live without?
Cell phone.

Sunika Sneakers

sunika

Mike Orra, owner

5689 Main St., Sylvania. 419-779-4899. sunikasneakers.com
Noon-6pm, Monday-Thursday. 11am-7pm, Friday-Saturday.
Changing the way people think of style compared to the same old style that is marketed to them.
Since 2018

How does your business make an impact?
Giving people the access to be different and express themselves with fashion. Also supporting the local kids and school fundraisers, events such as school plays ext.

How has Toledo changed since the business began?
It’s only been one year but you already see the demand increase for more crazy sneakers or the newest capsule drop.

How do you fit into the cultural landscape of Toledo?
Toledo has a great mix of people from all cultures. We have a lot of people who need more avenues to express their own style. The mall is not the only outlet, not anymore at least…

Three words to describe your business:
Trending. Fashion. Exclusive.

What do you love most about your job?
Meeting new people everyday who appreciate us trying to make a difference and change the way you shop for clothing. It’s the experience you get when coming here vs clicking “add to cart”. You will never walk out of here unhappy. We make sure of that, no questions asked. Just come back and will take care of the matter.

What’s your favorite local luxury?
Our museum. To be able to have something like that is awesome. I am there every week.

What are three Toledo businesses that you love?
Spacebar (best neighbor anyone can ask for), Balance Pan Asian (Respect them and have been friends with them when they first started), J&G Pizza (its the f***ing best pizza).

How do you become a better you?
Tough question. Just don’t stop!

What do you want your legacy to be?
To be recognized in Toledo for making a difference and helping our town grow.

What’s your purpose, and how did you find it?
Just make a positive impact in people’s lives. Being good to my neighbors and don’t let the small things take up too much of your time. Move on and keep moving forward.

Where would we find you on a Friday night?
HAHA… probably at home because I can never find a babysitter.

How many emails are in your inbox right now?
I stopped counting years ago. It’s just breading emails lol.

What’s a tech gadget or app that you couldn’t live without?
Weather App, I need that!

Toledo Hemp Center

hemp-center

Payton DeMoe, Manager

815 Phillips Ave., 419-724-9588. Toledohempcenter.com
10am-6pm, Monday-Friday. 10am-5pm, Saturday.
Providing a better quality of life for all ages
Since 2013.

How does your business make an impact?
We make an impact by helping the community in various different ways. Hosting community cookouts, water collections, and helping the homeless during the winter hosting a blanket drive.

How has Toledo changed since the business began?
Toledo has become more accepting and educated on the cannabis industry.

How do you fit into the cultural landscape of Toledo?
We fit into the cultural landscape because our major demographic of customers are the baby boomers.

Three words to describe your business:
Compassionate. Educational. Quality.

What do you love most about your job?
The thing I love most about my job is seeing people come back with a better quality of life.

What’s your favorite local luxury?
My favorite local luxury is going down to Fifth Third Field to watch the Mud Hens game.

What are three Toledo businesses that you love?
Pizza Cat. HolyToledough Dounts. Five Pints.

How do you become a better you?
To better myself, Personal Development is a huge thing. Listening to podcast and saying my “I ams” every morning.

What do you want your legacy to be?
I want my legacy to be that I always put others before myself and did everything I could to make the world a better place.

What’s your purpose, and how did you find it?
My purpose is to help anyone in need. I found this purpose through my job. I never saw myself giving myself less to give someone more because they need it more than I do.

Where would we find you on a Friday night?
At home hanging out with my puppy dog.

How many emails are in your inbox right now?
36 but now the Toledo Hemp Centers email is a whopping 6,263.

What’s a tech gadget or app that you couldn’t live without?
My cell phone and the Amaz.

Untamed Salon

untamed-salon

Lauren and Alicia Henderson

2712 W. Central Ave., 419-725-8404. Untamedbeauty.com
9am-5pm, Tuesday-Friday. By appointment, Saturday.
Giving each and every client a pleasurable experience and a feeling of self-assurance.
Since 2012.

How has Toledo changed since the business began?
It continues to flourish in its revitalization and makeover.

How do you fit into the cultural landscape of Toledo?
Like Toledo, we are completely diverse and everyone is welcome.

Three words to describe your business:
Relaxing. Authentic. Fun.

What do you love most about your job?
Helping people feel good about themselves.

What’s your favorite local luxury?
A night at The Heights!

What are three Toledo businesses that you love?
The Toledo Zoo, the YMCA and the Toledo Funny Bone.

How do you become a better you?
By giving to our clients, we receive twofold.

What do you want your legacy to be?
One that reflects us as honest, compassinate, loyal and giving.

Where would we find you on a Friday night?
Spending quality time with family and friends.

How many emails are in your inbox right now?
Over a thousand.

What’s a tech gadget or app that you couldn’t live without?
Cell phone.

You’ve Got Maids

Chris-Anthony1_CProbert

Chris Anthony & Liz Anthony, owners

1560 W. Sylvania Ave., 567-806-2437. Toledo. YouveGotMaids.com
8am-5pm, Monday-Friday. By appointment, Saturday-Sunday.
Cleaning houses so people can do other things.
Since 2019.

How does your business make an impact?
We are partnered with a nonprofit organization called Cleaning for a Reason which provides two free cleans (over the course of two months) to patients who are battling cancer.

How do you fit into the cultural landscape of Toledo?
We are locally owned and operated. We like to spend money locally and our fleet are Jeeps to support the factory here. The Jeeps also look really good wrapped.

Three words to describe your business:
Quality. Service. Always.

What do you love most about your job?
I like being able to get out into the city and some of the outlining areas and seeing what is going on. I like to interact with people and develop relationships with our clients. I want them to always feel like they can call me if they have anything good or bad to say.

What’s your favorite local luxury?
Downtown Toledo. ProMedica is doing a fabulous job fixing the area up.

What are three Toledo businesses that you love?
I don’t have just three. I love spending time downtown on Adams Street and anywhere near the ball field. A friend of mine owns Manhattan’s down there, which we go to often.

How do you become a better you?
Giving back, going above and beyond, and always doing what I say I’m going to do.

What do you want your legacy to be?
I just want to be remembered as a person who people liked to be around, and someone people can admire after they hear my story.

What’s your purpose, and how did you find it?
For many years I had no clue what I wanted to do. I served five years in the Navy as a Diesel Mechanic in the SeaBees, and was good at everything I did, so my options were limitless. Even in my early 30’s I had no clue, and I would work until I mastered what I was doing and move on. My wife and I were doing well, had most of our bills paid off, two kids, and we were involved in things like the GCC (Glass City Crawlers), the VFW, and Softball. In July of 2018 she was in a motorcycle accident that changed everything, she fought and lost her battle in January 2019. As a parent, I spent most of my time cleaning and cooking, and being widowed is a lot harder than being divorced— I’ve now been both. The weekends were spent cleaning and if we didn’t, things piled up. I wanted to do something besides blow all of the insurance money, and I wanted to make sure that it would last and grow so the kids could benefit from it, I also needed to work for myself because corporate employers tend to treat employees as criminals if they need to call off or work from home and I didn’t agree with that. So I quit my job and opened this franchise. I can help people, spend time with my kids, and be involved in the community. I am much busier than I’ve ever been, but its all worth it now.

Where would we find you on a Friday night?
Either at the Drive-in with my kids or singing karaoke at a local dive bar. Maybe even having dinner with friends or supporting a local event. Summertime = Concerts.

How many emails are in your inbox right now?
A lot.

What’s a tech gadget or app that you couldn’t live without?
I think I could live without any technology. I think we’ve all come to depend on a lot of things, like cell phones, but if I had to get rid of mine I could. Technology does make things more convenient and a lot easier to communicate with one another, but I could give it up if I had to.

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