The past year has brought into focus how much area businesses are the lifeblood of Toledo. As society changed, area entrepreneurs changed with it, providing essential services, products and economic stability in a time of uncertainty. Now, as things begin to resemble “normal,” we talked to the owners and proprietors of Toledo stores, restaurants and more about what they bring to our community— and what makes that same community so special to them.
Dunright Building Services, Inc.
1057 Custer Drive
419-537-7465
419-466-4410
dunrightbuildingservices.com
9am-5pm, Mon-Fri. By appointment only, Sat & Sun.
Bill McConnell, President
What year did your business open, and who opened it?
We opened in May of 2011 with a friend who has since moved on to his own business.
Describe your business in one sentence.
Dunright is a local company that has earned the trust of its neighbors by providing top quality materials, labor and service at a reasonable price.
How does your business make an impact in the community?
We donate and support several local charities such as The Open Door Ministries, Habitat for Humanity, and support a couple local church outreach programs
How has Lucas County changed since your business first opened?
We keep waiting for the promise of being business friendly to be kept.
What do you love most about Toledo?
The City Paper!
Three words to describe your business:
Trustworthy, Local, Expertise.
What do you love most about your job?
Everyday is something new and the fact that we are able to provide stable employment for an incredible staff who can be proud of the company they’ve chosen their career with.
What is your motto for how you run your business?
Do your best!
What’s your favorite local luxury?
Any of the Mancy’s restaurants!
What is the best business advice you have ever received?
Integrity is the most important facet to any business. It’s incredibly difficult to build but easy to lose. Choose your words and your customers carefully. This advice came from my very smart, late father who is and has always been my hero.
What are three local businesses that you love?
Charlie’s Taverna, K&K Screenprinting, K&R Automotive.
What do you want your legacy to be in Toledo?
Our legacy should always be that we were here to help anyone that needed assistance and that we met and exceeded all of our challenges.
Is there anything else you would like our readers to know?
It is our pleasure to meet the people of Toledo everyday with the best prices, best service, and probably the very best staff of any company our city has ever seen! Give us a try!
102.3 Proclaim FM
102.3 Proclaim FM7112 Angola Rd Holland OH 43528
419-865-9767
Business office: 9am-4pm, Mon-Fri; On Air 24/7
Owner: Maumee Valley Broadcasting Assoc.
Rebecca Vassar, general manager
What year did your business open, and who founded it?
In 1966 by a group of local businessmen who wanted a Christian station in Toledo. The effort was spearheaded by Jesse Fleck who also helped start Cherry Street Mission.
Describe your business in one sentence.
A family friendly radio station appealing to all generations with music, programming and activities year round.
How does your business make an impact in the community?
By involving the community, inviting local businesses and nonprofits to share their needs, events, etc. with our listeners. We also involve ourselves with events (the Rib Off, Maumee Parade and Fair, Toledo Blade Holiday Parade, etc.).
How has Lucas County changed since your business first opened?
We started in 1966, so a lot has changed since then! Even with all the advances in technology, people still tune into radio in their car, at home and now on their devices. We have kept up. We are on iHeart Radio and stream worldwide. We couldn’t do that in 1966 with just a tower signal.
What do you love most about Toledo?
Everything! The awesome parks, all the fabulous restaurants and especially our supportive community.
Three words to describe your business:
Loving, caring, exciting!
What do you love most about your job?
Being able to help those in need.
What are three local businesses that you love?
The Bard’s Coffee in Perrysburg, Tony Packos and Brondes Ford!
What do you want your legacy to be in Toledo?
That we are remembered for loving and caring for our listeners and our community.
Arrowhead Behavioral Health
Arrowhead Behavioral Health1725 Timber Line Road, Maumee
419-891-9333
arrowheadbehavioral.com
Open 24/7
Theresa Contreras, MSN, RN-BC, CEO
What year did your business open, and who opened it?
Opened in 2000 by Universal Health Services.
Describe your business in one sentence.
The premier behavioral health hospital in the area, helping individuals with psychiatric and substance abuse issues on their recovery journey.
How has Lucas County changed since your business first opened?
Arrowhead was one of the first detox facilities in the area. We saw a need in our community before anyone else had really even started talking about drug and alcohol addiction.
What do you love most about Toledo?
The people.
Three words to describe your business:
Compassionate, Integrous, Dedicated.
What do you love most about your job?
The ability to make a difference in the most vulnerable of populations.
What is your motto for how you run your business?
Do what’s best for our patients first and foremost….the rest will follow suit.
What is the best business advice you have ever received?
Don’t lose sight of your northern star, or, in other words, why you do what you do.
What do you want your legacy to be in Toledo?
That we worked hard to heal the residents of our community when they needed us the most.
Avocado and Cheese
711 Clifton Blvd., Toledo, OH 43607
419-360-0015
avocadoandcheese.com
Open Tues-Sun
Alisa Gafeney, Owner
What year did your business open?
May 2020.
Describe your business in one sentence.
Avocado and Cheese brings people together over food that is healthy, appetizing and appealing to the eye.
How does your business make an impact in the community?
My business helps bring family and friends together (especially after COVID) over food that is healthy, fresh and unique.
What do you love most about Toledo?
The small, hometown feel.
Three words to describe your business:
Healthy, unique and fresh.
What do you love most about your job?
Hearing my customers tell me how much they have enjoyed what I created for them.
What is your motto for how you run your business?
Trust the timing of your life, what is meant for you will always be for you.
What’s your favorite local luxury?
Poco Piatti.
What are three local businesses that you love?
Poco Piatti, Rumors and Herbaceous, LTD.
Barr’s Public House
3355 Briarfield Blvd. Ste. C.
419-866-8466
barrspublichouse.com
Lunch: 11:30am-3pm, Wed-Fri; Dinner: 3pm-9pm, Tues-Thurs, 3pm-10pm, Fri & Sat; Pub: Until 10pm, Tues & Wed, until 11pm, Thurs-Sat
Stephanie Soldner and Ken Gabel, owners (answers provided by Soldner)
What year did your business open?
2012.
Describe your business in one sentence:
A well–rounded community gathering space with an eclectic menu from the kitchen and craft drinks.
How does your business make an impact in the community?
We are very generous with the local sports teams’ fundraisers, we often host fundraisers, we team up with Driven Fitness Studio for our “Sip, Pose, Give,” beer/yoga series 6 times per year and each event benefits a different local charity. We support local businesses with a great place to network and much needed R & R.
Three words to describe your business:
Dynamic, fun, progressive.
What do you love most about your job?
Being creative and being social.
What is your motto for how you run your business?
Take care of the guests and the employees— if they’re happy, then I’m happy.
What is the best business advice you have ever received?
There’s competition everywhere, just focus on what’s within these four walls and we will succeed.
What are three local businesses that you love?
There are so many it’s hard to narrow down, but I’ll give a shout out to: Serenity Health & Wellness, Next Door Pub, Brew House Coffee Shop.
Is there anything else you would like our readers to know?
We have a great staff so if you want to join an award winning team, come apply with us…we’re hiring! Also, stay tuned for our 10 year anniversary party next year!
Benchmark Restaurant
6130 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg
419-873-6590
benchmark-restaurant.com
4-9pm, Wed, Thurs & Sun; 4-10pm, Fri & Sat
Jeff Dinnebeil and Edward Harmon, owners
What year did your business open?
2017.
Describe your business in one sentence.
Benchmark is a group of professionals focused on providing genuine hospitality, service and the best products.
What do you love most about Toledo?
Toledo is a great place to raise a family.
Three words to describe your business:
Energetic, Cravable, Passion.
What do you love most about your job?
There is something about looking out of the dining room and seeing both strangers and friends celebrating life. The fact that we get to have a little part in those special moments is what makes it all worth it.
What is your motto for how you run your business?
Always strive to be better and do better than the day before.
What is the best business advice you have ever received?
No one is the best at everything, so find those that compliment your weaknesses.
What are three local businesses that you love?
Beirut. Labib & his team have been doing it longer and better than anyone else. A true Toledo institution.
Jeffrey Mann Fine Jewelers. We admire Jeffrey & Corrine’s ability to build relationships with their clients. They are such huge supporters in the community.
Sautters. A cornerstone in Sylvania and family friends. We love to see how the next generation is stepping up.
Is there anything else you would like our readers to know?
Benchmark loves Toledo!
Cocina de Carlos
Cocina de Carlos27072 Carronade Drive, Suite F, Perrysburg OH
419-872-0200
cocinadecarlos.com
11am-9pm, Tues-Sun, closed Mon
Carlos Mendez, owner
What year did your business open?
2010.
Describe your business in one sentence.
Honest family restaurant.
How does your business make an impact in the community?
We are involved in many community support activities, mainly donating food for fundraisers. We also sponsor local sports activities. Lately we are working with local entrepreneurs, in the culinary field, with logistical support and even incorporating their products in our menus.
How has Lucas County changed since your business first opened?
In these 11 years I have seen many positive changes, but above all, I am impressed and proud to belong to this community because of the great support they have for local businesses. This global approach to supporting local business was crucial during the crisis caused by COVID.
What do you love most about Toledo?
It is very comforting to be able to live in a city that offers you everything you need to get ahead without having to leave it, but at the same time, it feels like living in a small town, with the tranquility and comfort of being able to travel to any part of the city without having to spend a lot of time at the wheel. I am anxious for all the road work to be completed, it will feel even more like we’re living in a larger town.
Three words to describe your business:
Quality, freshness, home.
What do you love most about your job?
The constant interaction with my employees and my clients. We are part of a great family and we enjoy so much when they come to celebrate with us for a graduation, a birthday or a family meal. We share those experiences and feel very close emotions with everyone.
What is your motto for how you run your business?
I try to instill in the employees (and in myself) that we must do everything thinking about how we would like them to do it for us, and do it simply, without complicating things. To think and act practically, as if we were going to welcome ourselves, our grandparents, our family, etc.
What’s your favorite local luxury?
For me it is a luxury to be able to have free time, and I try to enjoy every moment. First, to enjoy summers walking with my wife in one of the magnificent Metroparks of the city.
What is the best business advice you have ever received?
Never settle. Never wait in a comfortable place, always try to innovate. And, do not be selfish, share the success with others.
What are three local businesses that you love?
Too many…every Friday after work, I go to Swig in Perrysburg with my wife. We like to “discover” new places, but the regular ones are Basil, Zingos, Scramblers, Balance, Nagoya, Poco Piatti, Tea Tree and Local Thyme. Every Saturday I order food from a local restaurant to treat my employees and they love Zingos, Odd Fodder, Deets, Ground Round and Frickers.
Consign-It Home Interiors
6925 West Central Ave.
419-841-4663
consignittoledo.com
10am-6pm, Mon-Fri; 10am-5pm, Sat; Noon-5pm, Sun
Owner: Michael Smith
Tony Rasczyk, General Manager
What year did your business open?
We opened our store in September 1997. We’ll have our 24th anniversary coming up very soon.
Describe your business in one sentence.
We are an upscale resale shop of furniture and home accessories that also integrates brand new items as well.
Three words to describe your business:
Eclectic, fun, everchanging.
What do you love most about your job?
Our inventory is constantly changing every day; all kinds of styles from mid century to rustic, farmhouse, antique, classic and modern. We also have many long time customers and consignors; it’s nice to see familiar faces.
What is the best business advice you have ever received?
Prioritize. There’s not enough time in the day to get everything done, so prioritize what’s important.
What is your motto for how you run your business?
Treat people fairly, be kind and do your best.
What do you love most about Toledo?
The people, the Toledo Warehouse District and the short time you can get from one end of town to the other.
How does your business make an impact in the community?
Our business makes an impact in the community by employing local people, giving charitable contributions, recycling pre-owned items, and having a unique mix of items that you can’t find in a big box store.
Deb’s Body Jewelry and More LLC
Deb’s Body Jewelry and More LLCGreat Eastern Shopping Center, 2600 Woodville Rd., Northwood
419-691-3100
debsbodyjewelry.com
11am-6pm, Mon-Sat; Tattoo Hours: 11am-6pm, Tues-Sat
Debbie Reynolds, owner
What year did your business open?
I started my business in 2008 in a flea market in Toledo and it’s slowly grown to what it is today.
Describe your business in one sentence.
My business is a body jewelry store, head shop, tattoo studio, gift and novelty store with something for just about everyone.
How does your business make an impact in the community?
My business is one of many who are trying to save Great Eastern Shopping Center, a community staple since 1958.
What do you love most about Toledo?
My husband and I, and our kids, have lived in a couple different states, but we always came home. We now live in the house where my husband grew up in Oregon and we’re very happy. Our kids all graduated from Clay High School with solid educations, just like their dad, uncle and grandparents did.
What do you love most about your job?
I don’t know what I’d do if I didn’t have my business. My business gives me a reason to get out of bed every morning and a sense of purpose. What I love most about my job is the friends I’ve made here. We have lots of very loyal customers, some of whom I’ve watched grow up. I love our tattoo artist, Dragon, and he’s become one of my best friends.
What is your motto for how you run your business?
I use the Golden Rule, but we also have a lot of fun here.
What is the best business advice you have ever received?
To remember that I can’t please everyone (but I try).
What are three local businesses that you love?
I love Eats Toledo Speakeasy. Ya gotta love a speakeasy, and the food is delicious! Huntington Center is a great venue for concerts. The Toledo Zoo.
Ellis Ink
Ellis Ink3606 W Sylvania Ave., Ste. 5
567-315-8828
facebook.com/ellisinktoledo
2-10pm, Thurs; Noon-10pm, Fri-Sun
Michael Ellis, owner
How does your business make an impact in the community?
We provide the cleanest possible experience by being the only fully disposable tattoo and piercing studio in the area.
How has Lucas County changed since your business first opened?
We opened during the pandemic so there has been amazing support from the community once we went back to work.
What do you love most about Toledo?
How people want to give back to the community and support each other.
How has your business changed the most since the pandemic began?
We opened during the pandemic so everything we set into place has been our everyday life.
Three words to describe your business:
Modern, Inclusive, Creative.
What do you love most about your job?
Helping people express themselves and feel amazing about themselves.
What is your motto for how you run your business?
Never ask anyone to do anything you’re not willing to do yourself.
What’s your favorite local luxury?
All the amazing restaurants.
What is the best business advice you have ever received?
Treat your employees how you would want to be treated.
What are three local businesses that you love?
Yoga Six, San Marcos, Needle Masters.
What do you want your legacy to be in Toledo?
To provide the highest quality body art in the city.
Is there anything else you would like our readers to know?
We are a new business that’s full of experienced artists and fresh faces that are all excited to learn and do amazing body art.
Frankel Dentistry
Frankel Dentistry5012 Talmadge Rd., 419-474-9611
4359 Keystone Dr., Maumee, 419-893-0221
jonfrankeldentistry.com
Jon Frankel, DDS, owner (questions answered by Pamela Weitzel, Dental Concierge)
What year did your business open, and who opened it?
1946 by Dr. Sheldon Frankel.
Describe your business in one sentence.
Frankel Dentistry is changing lives a smile at a time by offering the best dental experience.
How does your business make an impact in the community?
The doctors, healthcare providers and staff at Frankel Dentistry are committed to serving all. They donate their time and professional skills to the community by offering free dental care on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Wednesday before Memorial Day. Annually Frankel Dentistry “buys back” excess Halloween Candy which is sent to local troops.
What do you love most about Toledo?
Toledo’s 1913 slogan holds true today, “You will do better in Toledo.” Toledo offers the best of all worlds— an art museum, a zoo, a baseball team, a hockey team, a symphony orchestra, an opera, 19 metroparks, a river, one of the Great Lakes and no traffic. Toledo follows the Frankel Dentistry Values: Always Better. Serve All. G.E.T. (Gratitude, Encouragement, Thankfulness.
Three words to describe your business:
Best Dental Experience.
What do you love most about your job?
It is a privilege to change lives through dentistry. The individual transformation from an unhealthy or unattractive smile to a beautiful, healthy smile is inexplicable. The doctors, healthcare providers, and staff at Frankel Dentistry feel grateful to offer the highest standards of dental care to our community.
What is your motto for how you run your business?
Changing Lives a Smile at a Time.
What are three local businesses that you love?
Everdry Toledo, Mancy’s Steakhouse, and Barry’s Bagels
Hannon’s Block Restaurant
Hannon’s Block Restaurant619 Monroe St.
419-407-5146
hannonsblockrestaurant.com
11am-10pm, Wed-Thurs; 11am-11pm, Fri-Sat; 11am-9pm, Sun; Closed Mon & Tues
Michael Stancati, owner
What year did your business open, and who opened it?
Hannon’s Block Restaurant opened in March of 2021 and is proudly owned by family and friends all with a lifelong connection to Toledo.
Describe your business in one sentence.
Hannon’s Block Restaurant is a full service bar and restaurant created to provide the great people of Toledo with a remarkably crafted and classic approach to food, beverage and hospitality.
How does your business make an impact in the community?
We partner with a variety of local vendors and other small businesses to support local homegrown products and services.
What do you love most about Toledo?
The relationships with the people that walk through our doors and the consistent support from the growing downtown population.
Three words to describe your business:
Timeless, welcoming, satisfying.
What do you love most about your job?
Being able to share my passion for hospitality, food and beverages with my team and the city of Toledo.
What do you want your legacy to be in Toledo?
I want my company and team to be known as leaders in the development of food and beverage operations involved in the continued revitalization of downtown Toledo.
Is there anything else you would like our readers to know?
We are open for lunch Wednesday-Sunday and look forward to people returning to the office this summer!
Health Foods by Claudia
Health Foods by Claudia3904 Secor Rd.
419-474-2400
healthfoodsbyclaudia.com
9am-6pm, Mon-Sat; 11am-5pm, Sun
Claudia K. David-Roscoe, owner
What year did your business open?
I opened the business in 1990.
Describe your business in one sentence.
We’re devoted to promoting personal health, environmentally-friendly products, and a community atmosphere.
How does your business make an impact in the community?
Our business makes a positive impact by supporting individuals seeking good health from a place of learning, dedication and self-nourishment. At Health Foods by Claudia, we are grateful to share our first-hand experience and heartfelt care. We are honored that so many have trusted our guidance over the years. We strive each day to live what we teach and teach what we live.
What do you love most about your job?
I have been blessed to actually see people heal themselves from all kinds of imbalances, even the ones everybody has been told it’s impossible to overcome. It’s been a unique opportunity to witness the true potential of the body’s ability to heal when nourished naturally, properly and with loving care. After witnessing thousands of people reclaim their health without aggressive approaches or synthetic treatments, the human body is certainly capable of finding balance if given a chance and the right tools to work with. I’ve been blessed to learn from some of the great visionaries of the natural health movement in the United States and because of them, I have learned to honor the powerful synergy that exists between Nature’s pharmacy and the human body and it’s a blessing to witness it firsthand.
What is the best business advice you have ever received?
The best business advice I ever received was from an uncle who was a successful businessman. He never really said much to me when I was growing up but when he heard I had started a business, he made it a point to tell me with all certainty, “Always know your margins because without them, you can’t pay your bills”. It was simple but important business advice and I’m grateful he instilled that in me.
What is your motto for how you run your business?
Our business motto is that success is achieved through a positive team effort and every team member plays an important role in achieving our common goal; to give guidance to others on their journey to good health. We have a great team of dedicated, hardworking and very caring people and we are grateful!
What do you want your legacy to be in Toledo?
I pray our legacy will be for people to always remember that each of us have an innate right to seek good health naturally and safely through knowledge and commitment without fear of harassment or infringement due to political or economic influences.
Is there anything else you would like our readers to know?
Something that is important to me is for people to always remember that our right to be healthy in a world that profits from sickness is an important right and because of the dedication of thousands of Ma and Pa health food stores across this country, we still have it today. The right to purchase supplements and access the education to support them is a freedom that has been hard fought to protect. Visionaries of the natural health movement in the 1900’s stood up to the industry of disease and fought tirelessly to protect the most intimate human right we have; our right to seek quality health without infringement or threat. They understood the political and economic influences profiting from disease are powerful and relentless and I for one am very grateful that they stood with courage to protect such an important right to be healthy naturally and safely through knowledge and dedication.
HLS Orthodontics
HLS Orthodontics6407 Monroe St., Sylvania, OH
419-882-1017
perfectbraces.com
Owners: Dr. Andre Haerian & Dr. Jennifer Ludwig
Dr. Sarah Hansen, orthodontist
What year did your business open, and who opened it?
HLS originally started as Sylvania Orthodontics. It was founded by Dr. Eugene Simon, a pediatric dentist who had first opened Sylvania Pediatrics. He then decided to go back to school to become an orthodontist and started the practice in 1981.
Describe your business in one sentence.
Our team helps patients achieve beautiful smiles through personalized orthodontic care, state of the art equipment, and lasting relationships.
How does your business make an impact in the community?
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.
What do you love most about Toledo?
There are a lot of things to love about Toledo, but one specific reason that made me want to come back was the abundance of Metroparks. I grew up running cross country on the trails of Swan Creek, and I love having so many different outdoor spaces to explore.
Three words to describe your business:
HLS is modern, personal, and successful. We stay current with all of our equipment and treatment options. We even use intraoral scanners to capture a 3D image of your teeth and 3D printers to create models of them! We adapt our treatment plans to fit what will work best for each individual patient. Whether we’re making big decisions, like using braces vs. Invisalign, or small decisions, like where to place a single bracket, we’re always thinking of what is best for the patient. Finally, we achieve results, and are confident in our abilities to create beautiful smiles
What do you love most about your job?
I love seeing how patient smiles and self-confidence improve with treatment. Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you, and straight teeth can make a big difference in how you view yourself. Sometimes patients have a difficult time letting themselves smile for photos before treatment, and it’s wonderful to see them flourish and begin to show off their teeth at the end!
What’s your favorite local luxury?
I’m a coffee drinker, and I love supporting Toledo coffee shops. My go-to drink is either a soy cappuccino or cold brew coffee, and when I need a caffeine boost, I try to find a new cafe in the area.
What are three local businesses that you love?
As a coffee drinker, I frequent a lot of local coffee shops, but one of my favorites is The Flying Joe in Perrysburg. Although I live at the other end of town, anytime I’m in the area, I will be sure to stop in! Toledo is also home to a lot of great local breweries, and for both great food and craft beer, I love Inside the Five, enjoying some Canton beer and chicken tenders is always a solid choice. Finally, Dave’s Running Shop is my go-to for running shoes and accessories. They sponsor a lot of races in the area, and I love to run with their marathon training groups.
Home Slice Pizza
28 S St. Clair
419-724-PIES
Homeslice419.com
11am-10pm, Sun- Thurs; 11am-2am, Fri & Sat
Michael & Ed Knight, owners (answers provided by Michael)
What year did your business open?
2005.
Describe your business in one sentence.
Where everyone knows your name.
How does your business make an impact in the community?
We were one of the first restaurants to start the revitalization of Downtown Toledo’s Warehouse District.
How has Lucas County changed since your business first opened?
Downtown Toledo has become a vibrant community, from games and concerts to Farmers Markets, there’s always something to do.
What do you love most about Toledo?
It’s a big city with a small town feel, this is home!
Three words to describe your business:
Pizza, friends and fun.
What do you love most about your job?
Meeting new people and seeing old friends daily.
What is your motto for how you run your business?
Bring them back.
What’s your favorite local luxury?
The parks, Mud Hens, Walleye, and the Muddy Maumee.
What is the best business advice you have ever received?
Treat guests like family.
What are three local businesses that you love?
Doc Watson’s, Manhattans, and Kengo.
What do you want your legacy to be in Toledo?
Home Slice Pizza always did what was best for the city first!
Is there anything else you would like our readers to know?
Local business, fresh ingredients, local beer served daily!
Innate Health Chiropractic
Innate Health Chiropractic26580 N. Dixie Hwy., Ste. 101, Perrysburg
419-872-2255
getinnatehealth.com
8am-11am & 3pm-6pm, Mon; 2pm-6pm, Tues; 8am-11am & 3pm-6pm, Wed; 9am-Noon & 3pm-6pm, Thurs; 9am-Noon, Fri
Dr. Nick Goin & Ashley Goin, owners (questions answered by Ashley)
What year did your business open?
October 2014
Describe your business in one sentence.
Innate Health Chiropractic is a family wellness center focusing on pediatrics, pregnancy and family care.
How does your business impact the community?
Each year we partner with other local organizations like The Pregnancy Center of Greater Toledo, Wood County Plays, Cherry Street Mission and more. We are always looking at ways to give back to our community and make a difference outside of our 4 walls at Innate Health Chiropractic.
What do you love most about Toledo?
There are so many fun things to do as a young family in Toledo. From the MudHens and Walleye games, to the local farmers markets and festivals, to the Toledo Zoo, we love to be out and about enjoying all that Toledo has to offer!
What are 3 words to describe your business?
Faith, function, and family. Faith is at the core of who we are and is the foundation to how we live our lives. Optimizing the function of the spine and nervous system to help improve one’s overall health is exactly what we do at Innate Health Chiropractic. We think of our patients at Innate as our family and strive every day to treat them as such.
What do you love most about your job?
What we love most about our job is having the opportunity each day to connect with people and make a positive difference in their lives. When our patients tell us how coming to Innate has impacted their lives, we can’t help but smile and appreciate how God is using us every day!
What is your favorite local luxury?
When we get a chance to have a date night, you will often find us eating at Benchmark restaurant. Having excellent service and great food is one of our favorite luxuries to enjoy and Benchmark delivers above and beyond on both.
What is the best business advice you have ever received?
Someone once told us to show up every day 1% better than you were yesterday. This advice has helped us to continue to grow, innovate and provide the best service we can.
Jeff’s Hauling & Cleanup
Jeff’s Hauling & Cleanup310 Mulberry St, Perrysburg
419-508-3782
Search “Jeff’s Hauling & Cleanup” on Facebook
7am-9pm daily
Jeff Hoffmann, owner
What year did your business open, and who opened it?
I opened this business in June of 1999
How does your business make an impact in the community?
We impact our local community by providing an affordable service to help keep our communities clean. We also donate services to local charities and non profit organizations.
How has Lucas County changed since your business first opened?
Lucas County has become more diverse over the last 22 years. Diversity is great for our local community as it brings fresh ideas to the table.
What do you love most about Toledo?
What’s not to love? Toledo is a great city and the metro Toledo area is phenomenal. I couldn’t think of operating my business anywhere else.
Three words to describe your business:
Friendly, prompt, professional.
What do you love most about your job?
Everything! I love meeting people, making them smile, and the results of a job well done.
What’s your favorite local luxury?
Our Metroparks.
What is the best business advice you have ever received?
It’s easier to give 100% now, than take a customer complaint later.
What are three local businesses that you love?
I can’t pick 3, I love them all.
The Kitchen Salon
The Kitchen Salon151 N. Michigan Ave. Suite 225
419-984-0395
TheKitchenSalon.com
5pm-9pm, Wed; 9am-5pm, Thurs & Fri; 8am-2pm, Sat
Megan Davis, owner
What year did your business open, and who opened it?
I established the business in 2012, but I am now full time as of January 2021.
Describe your business in one sentence.
The Kitchen Salon is a home for natural hair care and cultivation using handmade products from the garden to the kitchen to a beautiful you.
How does your business make an impact in the community?
It’s the only beauty business that, for more than a decade, has provided community and consumer education about natural hair care. Our Expo and curated events bring together small businesses and consumers to connect and support one another, often partnering with local organizations to bring awareness to causes such as domestic violence and autism, donating goods for programs or shelters.
How has Lucas County changed since your business first opened?
I have noticed a steady increase of small, niche businesses. Local media has truly changed. I used to advertise with flyers and newspaper ads, today newspapers are printed less and less and have moved to digital platforms, however I use them to get my message out to the many people who still prefer print.
What do you love most about Toledo?
We are in the middle of everywhere; a car ride can take us places that are easy to access by the highway or turnpike.
Three words to describe your business:
Culture, Care, Community.
What do you love most about your job?
Haircare is intimate, so connecting with people and their energy makes their service appointments meaningful and manifests their desired style while giving them confidence.
What is your motto for how you run your business?
Be honest and humble, be prepared.
What’s your favorite local luxury?
The Toledo Metroparks, and the Toledo-Lucas County Libraries are a close second.
What is the best business advice you have ever received?
Know who I am, what I am doing, why I am doing it and who I am serving/connecting with.
What are three local businesses that you love?
Gone Fishing Outdoor Adventures, Charming Gal Boutique, Hot Box Bistro
What do you want your legacy to be in Toledo?
That I remain local, I love the people I care for, and that I serve the community in a different but important way.
Is there anything else you would like our readers to know?
I’ve learned to adjust the sails when life’s wind blows to stay above water.
Knight Insurance Group
Knight Insurance Group22 N. Erie St.
419-241-5133
knightinsurance.com
8am-5pm, Mon-Fri
Diane Keil-Hipp, CPRM, COO
What year did your business open, and who opened it?
The business opened in 1859 under the name Shawen Stieg and Whitaker.
Describe your business in one sentence.
We provide insurance protection for individuals, families and businesses.
How does your business make an impact in the community?
We are locally owned and privately held, proudly located in the Warehouse District in downtown Toledo. Because we believe in supporting our local economy, we do business with many other local companies, several of them, clients. Supporting local charities is also important to our values. Our employees give their time to many worthwhile causes in the area, and we financially support numerous local nonprofits who do good in our area.
How has Lucas County changed since your business first opened?
Given that our agency was established in 1859, the area has changed tremendously! Lucas County–and the Ohio-Michigan border–were just 24 years old when our agency was founded. The population in Toledo was just shy of 14,000 people; by 1900, it grew to 131,000 people. The early days of our agency’s existence saw tremendous growth in Lucas County and Toledo. Through all the years, we have offered our clients insurance protection for their hard-earned assets.
Three words to describe your business:
Trusted, knowledgeable, relationship-focused.
What is your motto for how you run your business?
Every day, we strive for three outcomes: to delight our stakeholders, to grow and thrive in a fun environment, and to be the best at what we do.
What are three local businesses that you love?
Georgio’s Restaurant, Habitec Security and B Creative Graphic Design.
What do you want your legacy to be in Toledo?
To continue to be locally owned and privately held. In an era where many businesses are selling out to large, out-of-town companies, we are committed to remaining a Toledo business that cares about its community and its employees.
Nature’s Corner
6036 Angola Rd Holland
419-866-0420
MyNaturesCorner.com
9am-6pm, Mon-Fri; 9am-5pm, Sat
Owner: Ken Gilson & Keith Fager
Jenny Amstutz, Store Manager
What year did your business open, and who opened it?
Ken Gilson & Keith Fager, 1981.
Describe your business in one sentence.
A unique destination that changes with each season.
How does your business make an impact in the community?
When you want to stop at a locally owned shop with beautiful surroundings, friendly staff and unique treasures, this is the place to come. Many times I’ve overheard customers talking about how this is their favorite place to stop, or where they like to come to explore. Many products are made in the USA, and several are made right here in Ohio!
What do you love most about Toledo?
I love our customers. I’ve met the kindest people as they’ve come through our doors. Some come each week, others I only see a few times a year as they stop in from out of town. I hope that each person feels that their business and friendship means a lot to us.
What do you love most about your job?
I love working at a place where everyone works together, and takes pride in their work. A company that is always changing with each season never gets boring!
What is your motto for how you run your business?
Treat others as you want to be treated.
Is there anything else you would like our readers to know?
If you haven’t stopped in yet, make a trip out to visit us, you won’t be disappointed!
Needle Masters Tattoo Studios
527 S. Reynolds, 419-531-4652
5801 Telegraph, Ste. 10, 419-476-9015
needlemasters.com
11am-1pm, Sun-Wed; 11am-3pm, Thurs-Sat
Owner: Bradley C. Cooper
Ben Richards, professional piercer
What year did your business open?
1999.
Describe your business in one sentence.
Tattooing and piercing with jewelry sales and aftercare products, no appointment needed, walk-ins every day.
How does your business make an impact in the community?
We donate to several charities, and cover track marks for recovering addicts at no charge. We are one of the few shops that do walk-ins daily.
How has Lucas County changed since your business first opened?
Unfortunately, there is more hate than diversity.
What do you love most about Toledo?
Lake Erie, the park systems, the Zoo, the many diverse clubs and night spots.
What do you love most about your job?
Meeting people not only from Toledo but from all the surrounding areas.
What is your motto for how you run your business?
A good tattoo ain’t cheap and a cheap tattoo ain’t good.
Racing for Recovery
Racing for Recovery6202 Trust Dr., Holland
419-824-8462
racingforrecovery.org
8am-5pm, Mon-Fri; 8am-2pm, Sat
What year did your business open, and who opened it?
We started racing for recovery in 2001.
Describe your business in one sentence.
We are a federally approved 501 c3 nonprofit whose mission is to prevent substance abuse and self harm in adolescents, and assist those who are currently battling addiction and any form of self harm and their families attain and sustain wellness/sobriety through our ten lifestyles of recovery.
How does your business make an impact in the community?
Our business makes an impact by assisting people in regaining their lives through sobriety to be productive members of our community.
How has Lucas County changed since your business first opened?
We have seen a decline in emotional, physical and mental wellness which has led to more people in need of Racing for Recovery services and support groups.
What do you love most about Toledo?
I love the change of seasons and the “drive” to succeed.
Three words to describe your business:
Empathy, Humility and Gratitude.
What do you love most about your job?
To take what has graciously been given to me via support, education and experience and give it back to others so they can improve their lives and have the opportunity to give back to others to keep the cycle of wellness going.
What is your motto for how you run your business?
WITH SOBRIETY ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE.
What’s your favorite local luxury?
Travel.
What is the best business advice you have ever received?
Never give up on your dreams and put the customer FIRST.
What are three local businesses that you love?
ProMedica, Tam O Shanter and RunToledo.
What do you want your legacy to be in Toledo?
That we put the health and wellness of PEOPLE first and we always find a way to say YES to those seeking our assistance.
Is there anything else you would like our readers to know?
That we donate over $1 million per year in pro bono services and lodging to those who are less fortunate but have the desire along with making the effort to improve their lives through the Racing for Recovery lifestyles.
Rosie’s Italian Grille
Rosie’s Italian Grille606 N McCord Rd.
419-866-5007
rosiesitaliangrille.com
11:30am-9:30pm, Sun-Thurs; 11:30am-10pm, Fri & Sat
Phil Barone, owner
What year did your business open, and who opened it?
I opened our business in 1982 with my brothers John, and Mike. Rosie’s back then was just a deli with an adjoining arcade, in a building on Sylvania Avenue. It was opened with the help of our mother, Rosaria ‘Rosie’ Barone.
Describe your business in one sentence.
Rosie’s is a family owned business that provides authentic Italian recipes that pay homage to my mother Rosaria ‘Rosie’ Barone.
What do you love most about Toledo?
What I love most about Toledo is the people. Toledo is a great community full of amazing people. We have a great food scene, amazing parks, musicians, artists, and it is really just a great and up and coming city that I love to call home.
Three words to describe your business:
Family, Authentic, and Staple.
What do you love most about your job?
What I love the most about my job are the people I have worked with, mostly my partner, Chef Eric Kish. Honestly, our restaurant is like one big family, many of the people have worked here for years and we all know each other and work well together. That’s what makes Rosie’s so special and my ‘job’ special.
What is your motto for how you run your business?
My motto would have to be the golden rule. Treat others the way you would want to be treated. I like to think of all of our guests and employees as family, so I treat everyone with respect and gratitude.
What is the best business advice you have ever received?
The best business advice I ever received has to be to do what you love and love what you do so you never have to work a day in your life. Which is very true.
What do you want your legacy to be in Toledo?
I really want my legacy to revolve around Rosie’s and providing excellent and authentic Italian food to the Toledo area for decades through our restaurant and now our food trucks. In addition, I would want my legacy to also spawn around music, I love music and I think I will be well known for my Jim Morrison Tribute concert and the philanthropy that goes along with it. But, also I would want to be mainly known as a family man, I love my family and I wouldn’t be where I am today without them!
Is there anything else you would like our readers to know?
Yes, I have a secret and you will hear about it soon!
Schmucker’s Restaurant
Schmucker’s Restaurant2103 N Reynolds Rd.
419-535-9116
schmuckersrestaurant.com
8am-10pm, Mon-Thur; 7am-10pm, Fri-Sat; Closed Sun
Doug & Patty Schmucker, owners (questions answered by Doug)
What year did your business open, and who opened it?
1948, by Harvey and Nola Schmucker, my grandparents.
Describe your business in one sentence.
Schmucker’s is a 1948 family diner that offers home cooked comfort food and lots of amazing homemade pie.
How does your business make an impact in the community?
On National Pie Day, Jan 23rd we have a fundraiser for Cherry Street Missions by donating $1 for every piece of pie or whole pie we sell. Every 5 years we donate a percentage of our profits, the percentage equal to the years we have been in business, to Sunshine Communities.
What do you love most about Toledo?
Toledo is the best large small city in America! Top art museum, top Zoo, top Metropark system, AAA baseball team, AA hockey team, Lake Erie & Maumee Bay. Most of all, I love the people that love Toledo.
What do you love most about your job?
I LOVE PEOPLE. Both our “Schmucker’s Family” (staff) and customers bring joy to me. Our staff lets me be a part of their life’s journey. Customers often bring me old stories of my grandparents and my parents.
What is your motto for how you run your business?
I still follow my grandfather’s founding belief: He believed that if you provided quality food at a reasonable price and made sure the customer didn’t leave hungry they would be back. I have since added: Great service and a great experience.
What’s your favorite local luxury?
Mr. Freeze.
What is the best business advice you have ever received?
Love God and love people, from Jesus.
What are three local businesses that you love?
Mr. Freeze, CycleWerks, Dave’s Performance Footwear.
Six Fifths Distilling
Six Fifths Distilling120 W South Boundary St, Perrysburg
567-336-6057
sixfifthsdistilling.com
3pm-10pm, Wed-Thurs; 3pm-11pm, Fri; 12pm-11pm, Sat
Patrick Ryan, owner
What year did your business open, and who opened it?
Six Fifths Distilling opened in April 2019. It is a family owned and operated business.
Describe your business in one sentence.
We are a locally owned and operated distillery and tasting room featuring a casual atmosphere with high quality cocktails & food.
How does your business make an impact in the community?
We make an impact in our community by utilizing local ingredients and supporting small businesses around us.
What do you love most about Toledo?
We love the pride people have for Toledo. Everyone loves to share their experiences and suggestions for Toledo business and events.
What do you love most about your job?
What we love most about our jobs is being able to have a positive impact in our community. We love the time we spend with the locals and sharing what Toledo has to offer with visitors from out of town.
What’s your favorite local luxury?
The Toledo Zoo! Six Fifths has teamed up with the Zoo for events and it’s our favorite spot to take our own families to enjoy a beautiful day.
What are three local businesses that you love?
Inside the Five Brewing, Wildside Brewing and Four Fires Meadery.
Is there anything else you would like our readers to know?
I hope our readers use this opportunity to learn more about what local Toledo businesses have to offer and have a great time exploring and enjoying this great city!
Soto Signature Salon & Spa
Soto Signature Salon & Spa580 Craig Drive Suite 6, Perrysburg
419-872-5555
sotosalonspa.com
9am-9pm, Mon-Thurs; 9am-5pm, Fri-Sat; 10am-6pm, Sun
Jessica Johnson, Jennifer O’Connor, Victoria Perry & Leah Wilson, owners. (answers provided by Perry)
What year did your business open, and who opened it?
Soto Signature Salon & Spa opened in 2001 and was founded by the late Denise J. Soto. Her legacy has continued and carried forward by the current owners since 2008.
Describe your business in one sentence.
Soto inspires the evolution of beauty by providing professional haircare, skincare, massage and nail care services.
What do you love most about Toledo?
We love all the support happening between local businesses! You can definitely feel the love for local when you interact with other local businesses, working hard to support the entrepreneurial spirit.
Three words to describe your business:
“Evolution of beauty.” The roots of our company are based on education and support. There is not “Evolution” without passing on knowledge and support to not only our team of service providers, but also our guests who look to us for the latest trends on hair, skin and nail care.
What do you love most about your job?
We love being able to help individuals feel confident in their skin. Everyone has their own version of what beauty means to them. We love providing an array of services to help them achieve that.
What are three local businesses that you love?
Benchmark, Ft. Meigs Crossfit and Pure Barre.
What is the best business advice you have ever received?
No matter how you feel, get up, show up and never give up!
How does your business make an impact in the community?
Our Salon/Spa company is about growing young beauty professionals and supporting our industry through our community. We want to help our team be able to support their career aspirations, while also having the flexibility to focus on their work within the community.
Souk Mediterranean Kitchen
Souk Mediterranean Kitchen139 S Huron
567-777-7685
soukkitchenbar.com
11am-10pm, Tues-Sat
Chef Moussa Salloukh, owner
What year did your business open?
Opened October 1, 2019.
Describe your business in one sentence.
Mediterranean with a HIP twist.
How does your business make an impact in the community?
Our business makes an impact on the community by giving back with all of our charitable contributions.
What do you love most about Toledo?
What I love most about Toledo is the support and the love that they give to all independent business owners.
How has Lucas County changed since your business first opened?
I don’t think Lucas county has changed. I think life has changed since COVID-19. I think in the last year, to survive, we have all had to change the blueprint on how we do business.
What is your motto for how you run your business?
Passion, Persistence and Consistency.
What do you love most about your job?
What I love most about my job is that I get to put passion and love into every dish I make and create! To me that’s not a job…it’s having fun!
Is there anything else you would like our readers to know?
I would love for your readers to know how grateful we are for all their support throughout the past year. Without them, we would not be here!
Sunshine Studios
Sunshine Studios305 Conant St. Maumee
419-891-8877
sunshinestudio.org
10am-3pm, Mon-Fri; 6 pm-9pm, Tues-Thurs evening; 10am-4pm, Sat; Closed Sun
Larry Knight, manager
What year did your business open, and who opened it?
The studio opened in 2014 and is owned and operated by Sunshine Communities, a Maumee-based nonprofit that, since 1950, has supported people with developmental disabilities.
Describe your business in one sentence.
Sunshine Studios is a community studio, open to artists of all ages, experiences and abilities. Its mission is to offer a place for the entire community to create.
How does your business make an impact in the community?
We impact the community by providing supported employment to individuals with disabilities that may otherwise find it difficult to secure a job in the community.
How has Lucas County changed since your business first opened?
This area has become more open toward the capabilities of individuals with disabilities
Three words to describe your business:
Creative, artistic and opportunity.
What do you love most about your job?
I love seeing the self-satisfaction and the enthusiasm of the individuals when they have completed a job.
What is your motto for how you run your business?
Always look for opportunities to grow.
What’s your favorite local luxury?
Enjoying the lakeshore.
What is the best business advice you have ever received?
Support people along the way.
What do you want your legacy to be in Toledo?
That I served the community well.
Is there anything else you would like our readers to know?
Individuals with disabilities have a lot to offer!
Toledo Alliance for the Performing Arts
Toledo Alliance for the Performing Arts1838 Parkwood Ave.
419-246-8000
toledosymphony.com
9am-5pm, Mon-Fri
Zak Vassar, President and CEO
What year did your business open, and who opened it?
The Toledo Symphony and Toledo Ballet have a combined history of over 150 years of entertaining, educating, and enriching our community with beautiful music and dance. In 2019, these two organizations merged to create the Toledo Alliance for the Performing Arts, or TAPA.
Describe your organization in one sentence.
We bring our community together to create memorable moments, expand horizons, and engage in stunning artistic performances.
How does your organization make an impact in the community?
While the pandemic minimized and temporarily shuttered performing arts organizations across the country, our Alliance and commitment to this vision remained strong. Back in September, the Toledo Symphony was one of just 24 orchestras in the nation to begin a season. In December, Toledo Ballet was the only ballet company to present the Nutcracker. We knew that the pandemic would be long and taxing, and we knew that our community would struggle under the weight of disturbing headlines. We remained committed to presenting live performances every weekend to provide distraction from current events and perhaps a little healing and calm along the way. The pandemic provided its share of challenges, especially with socially-distancing across the audience, orchestra, and dancers. But, our organization turned into the wind, found a path forward, and persevered. We learned a lot about ourselves through the process, and we recognized our role in helping others to get through a challenging time. In the end, we kept our musicians and dancers safe, added warmth to the community, and created special light in a dark time.
What do you love most about Toledo?
I’m Toledo born and raised. And, while I lived in Boston for ten years, I always knew that I’d be back. This town has always punched above its weight class when it comes to the arts. When someone grows up here, we take it for granted that we can visit a world class art museum for free, see a top- notch symphony almost every weekend, or take in live performances of jazz, opera, or theatre throughout the year. We set the bar pretty high here in Toledo, and I am proud to work in such a creative community that makes its art so accessible to the community. When we are exposed to art, our world becomes bigger, our perspectives broaden, and our ideas are unbridled.
How has your organization changed the most since the pandemic began?
One of the most meaningful investments we made was the launch of TAPA Streaming, a cutting- edge online streaming platform. Our organization had invested in video production for several years, and we anticipated launching a streaming platform several years in the future. When the pandemic hit, however, we knew that streaming would become an immediate priority. We launched it very quickly, doing about 14 months of work in just three. TAPA Streaming went live in September 2020 and generated excitement across the organization and our community. Between September and June, we expanded our viewership dramatically to include over 3,000 users, from 45 states, and 31 countries.
Three words to describe your organization?
Passionate. Strategic. Nimble.
What do you love most about your job?
I have the pleasure of working in a job that is remarkable inside and outside. Within our walls, I’m lucky to work alongside creative, passionate, and talented individuals. Their commitment to our cause and this community is palpable. They create beauty every day. Externally, I get to work with our patrons, learning how art has changed their lives and how much our performances play a role in their Toledo experience. After working 15 years in consulting, these last five at TAPA have been extremely rewarding and fulfilling.
What do you want your organization’s legacy to be in Toledo?
If we do this right, our capacity to grow access to the performing arts is extraordinary. What would it mean if attending a live performance were as simple as visiting one of our beautiful Metroparks? Whom would we be as Toledoans? What would it change about the way we see our neighbors or our community? How would it change our perspectives if music were always in earshot or beautiful movement came naturally to everyone? These are fascinating questions that project a special future for our region.
Van Optical
Van Optical5307 Monroe St.
419-841-8550.
vanoptical.com
10am-5pm, Mon, Wed, Fri; 10am-6pm, Tues & Thurs; 10am-2pm, Sat
Kimberley J. VanTuinen, Owner
What year did your business open, and who opened it?
1974, my father Lou VanTuinen.
Describe your business in one sentence.
There is eyewear for everyone but personalized for you by our licensed opticians.
What do you love most about Toledo?
There’s always something to do, with the arts, entertainment, festivals, sports and museums.
Three words to describe your business:
Selection, Personalized, Experience.
What do you love most about your job?
The diversity of opticianry— it’s fashion, beauty, optics, medicine, engineering and customer care all in one field.
What is your motto for how you run your business?
In life as well, it’s always been to treat everyone like you wish to be treated.
What’s your favorite local luxury?
Refresh Spa.
What is the best business advice you have ever received?
Just ask…the worst thing you can hear is “no.”
What are three local businesses that you love?
Eli Antypas Jewelers, The Middle East Market and Rachel Michael’s Gourmet Popcorn.
Whiskey & The Wolf
3515 W. Alexis Rd.
419-690-4280
whiskeyandthewolf.com
3-9pm, Mon; 11:30am-9pm, Tues-Thurs; 11:30a-10pm, Fri & Sat; Closed Sun
George & Tony Bardwell, owners (questions answered by George)
What year did your business open, and who opened it?
We opened: My brother and I opened Whiskey & The Wolf January 29th. 2019
Describe your business in one sentence.
A neighborhood bar serving restaurant quality food.
How does your business make an impact in the community?
Creating a neighborhood restaurant with high quality food that people could come to more than once a week.
What do you love most about Toledo?
The community, and how close we are to so many great places.
What do you love most about your job?
Creating a concept that people enjoy and providing opportunities for others.
What is your motto for how you run your business?
Quality over cost, treat your staff well and create an experience that guests want to share with friends.
What are three local businesses that you love?
Dave White Chevrolet, Joseph’s Beverage Center and Howard, Nicholas and Baburek DDS.
