Saturday, November 2, 2024

Locally Grown 2022: Making a Connection

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

What was the last really great experience you had with a business? One that not only made you feel valued as a customer, but also valued as a person? We bet that was with a local business. We all understand the importance of supporting the area’s economy by shopping and getting services from local providers. However, the benefits of buying within our own community go beyond that. We asked some of Toledo’s trademark businesses questions about what they do and to share stories of their Local Connections, interactions with customers that made them proud to do business in the Glass City.

Dunright Building Services

Nobody does it better than Dunright Building Services.”
1020 Laskey Rd. 419-214-9264. dunrightbuildingservices.com
Hours: M-F 9am-5pm; weekends by appointment
Bill McConnell, Owner
Since 2011

For more than a decade, Dunright Building Services have been the first name in Toledo for home improvement. Founded in 2011 by Bill McConnell, the company has established its reputation home by home, providing quality services and products.

LOCAL CONNECTION
We once had a client who was disabled and needed some window work done. She could not afford the repair, so we agreed to order, purchase and install the windows as a gift. She has been a friend to the company ever since.

What do you love most about your job?
Seeing a project that comes from an idea to completion and how extremely happy our clients can be.

What is your motto for how you run your business?
We often ask our clients, “How would you like a new house at the same address?” Or we treat our clients like we would want to be treated.

What is the best business advice you have ever received?
Integrity— it is difficult to build and easy to lose. If you have a dream or a goal, follow it, achieve it and enjoy it, no matter the time it takes or the risk involved.

What’s your favorite local luxury?
Anything by Lake Erie.

What are three local businesses that you love?
Charlie’s Taverna, Tuffy in Perrysburg, Twisty Treats in Perrysburg.

What services does Dunright provide?
Locally owned and operated, Dunright is a certified contractor that installs doors (entry, patio and storm doors), vinyl windows and siding (both vinyl and fiber cement). Owner Bill McConnell is proud of his business and, especially, the quality work they consistently do for their many customers. Bill is also proud and honored by the well-deserved BBB Torch Award for Ethics and Remodeling Magazine’s Big 50 Award bestowed upon his company.

What is the key to the way Dunright interacts with area customers?
Bill McConnell does not believe in surprises when it comes to remodeling, and Bill thinks you shouldn’t either. You will receive a free consultation and top quality products and workmanship. All Dunright jobs commence only after customer review and approval of all costs for labor, materials and installation.

What is Dunright’s legacy in the Toledo community?
Dunright has received many awards and honors for their work and professionalism — evidenced by the wall at their office covered with plaques. Having over 100 years of combined experience, you can trust Dunright Building Services for your next remodeling project — to do the job on time and on budget, and to make sure it is “done right.”

Cocina de Carlos, Carlos Poco Loco, Lupitas Cantina

“In my kitchen, nothing is ever frozen but the ice cubes.”
Cocina: 27072 Carronade Drive, Perrysburg; 206 Farnsworth Rd. Waterville
Poco Loco: 1809 Adams St.
Lupitas Cantina: 209 Louisiana Ave, Perrysburg
419-872-0200. carlosrestaurants.com
Hours of operation: Tuesday-Sunday 11am-9pm
Carlos Mendez, owner
Since 2010

How does your business make an impact in the community?
We try to support various local causes from schools, churches and non-profit associations. We also love to hire high school youth and instill respect and responsibility for work. Many of them start when they are 16 years old and some return to work in summer vacations until they finish their university. It is very motivating for us to see their growth and develop as people.

What do you love about this community?
I am originally from Mexico, but after 16 years in the Toledo area, I feel like a 419 guy. I have always given my best and I have always received a lot of love and support. I greatly admire the solidarity that is felt here and the multicultural respect

Three words to describe your business: 
Honesty, quality and family.

What do you love most about your job?
Interacting with so many people, both employees and their families as well as customers. I also feel great pride in my Mexican roots and how I can share this feeling through my food and business vision.

What is your motto for how you run your business? 
I treat everyone as I would like them to treat me.

What’s your favorite local luxury? 
Downtown Perrysburg, haha.

What is the best business advice you have ever received?
If the client does not come to you, go out and find him.

What are three local businesses that you love?
Only three? Swig, Basil, Balance.

Most used app?
Facebook.

Is there anything else you would like our readers to know?
Supporting local businesses is good, but also support local businesses that support other local businesses.

Consign-It Home Interiors

6925 West Central Ave. 419-841-4663. consignittoledo.com
10am-6pm, Monday-Friday; 10am-5pm, Saturday; Noon-5pm, Sunday; closed major holidays
Mike Smith, owner. Questions answered by Tony Rasczyk, general manager
Since 1997

LOCAL CONNECTION
Our business makes an impact in the community by recycling furniture and accessories, donating to various non profits and fundraisers, filling a need  where people can buy nice and affordable furniture and are able to take with them. Our employees are local and many of our customers are local; we do draw customers from 1-2 hours away.

Three words to describe your business: 
Eclectic, Everchanging, Inspiring

What do you love most about your job?
Our long time customers, getting new inventory every day, recycling good used furniture and our long time employees.

What is your motto for how you run your business? With myself as a leader, I set the tone. Lead by example.

What is the best business advice you have ever received?
You’ll always have a list; you just need to prioritize. There are only so many hours in the day.  

What do you love about this community?
The people, being able to get from one end of town to the other in 20 minutes and the variety of restaurants and people.  

Directions Credit Union

“Directions Credit Union is a community-based financial institution dedicated to serving the financial needs of its members.”
200 N. St. Clair St., Ste. 1600. 1-888-508-2228. directionscu.org
Barry A Shaner, CEO
Since 1953

LOCAL CONNECTION
One that always comes to mind is a young lady whose auto loan we refinanced.  Her current rate on her loan was more than twice what she would have qualified for with the credit union.  That one sticks with me because it illustrates the fact that borrowers who are young or just don’t have experience with financial services often end up paying way more than they should.  That was one of the reasons our credit union was founded in 1953.

How does your business make an impact in the community?
For many, managing their personal finances can be intimidating. For others, it is a chore. We help our members better understand how they can improve their financial lives and we make that as easy as possible.

What do you love about this community?
I did not grow up in Toledo, but I have lived here for 28 years (longer than anywhere else). I love living in a community that is a manageable size but offers so many things. The Toledo Symphony and our minor league sports options are my favorites.

Three words to describe your business:
Easy, Fair and There.

What do you love most about your job?
I love working for a mission based organization where I can just focus on what’s right.

What is your motto for how you run your business?
When we work together as a community, everyone can benefit. There are no winners and losers.

What’s your favorite local luxury?
A beer and a bag of peanuts at a Mud Hens game.

What is the best business advice you have ever received?
Change comes whether we embrace it or not, and trying to resist it instead of adapting to it is a sure way to fail.

Frankel Dentistry

5012 Talmadge Rd. 419-474-9611.
Frankel & Puhl
4359 Keystone Drive, Maumee. 419-893-0221.
jonfrankeldentistry.com
Hours of operation: Monday-Saturday, Evenings Available
100% Employee Owned. Questions answered by Pamela Weitzel, R.D.H., B.S.

Three words to describe your business: 
Best dental experience.

What do you love most about your job?
Living our core values at Frankel Dentistry makes us love Monday mornings! Always Better. Serve All. G.E.T. (Gratitude-Encouragement-Trust). Owner Mindset.

What is your motto for how you run your business? 
Changing lives a smile at a time is our mantra. The doctors, healthcare workers, and staff at Frankel Dentistry are grateful to serve the community through dentistry. 

What are three local businesses that you love?
There are dozens of local businesses we just couldn’t live without, so we have chosen the last three that exceeded our expectations. Jupmode, Balance, and Adams Street Publishing make us smile.

Is there anything else you would like our readers to know?
We receive two to three reviews from our patients everyday. This recent review is feedback for the experience of Toledo’s Locally Grown, Locally Owned Frankel Dentistry. 

“Dentists offices have been intimidating to me in my life. I go way back to where a dentist office was usually above a bank or other business and there was only the owning dentist working there. No free water or smiling faces to greet you, no 30 minute time set aside to get to know me as a person before meeting my mouth. THIS VISIT TO FRANKEL WAS AMAZING. My hygienist BECCI was the best, She explained everything that would happen and asked how I PREFERRED to have things explained. Becky and the dentist spent a lot of time with me and explained everything to my satisfaction. The checkout and checkin areas were clean and spacious…and very friendly. WELL DONE BECCI AND FRANKEL TEAM!
R.R.”

Health Foods by Claudia

“Our store is a trusted source for teaching the fundamental principles and tools of natural healing from firsthand experience, knowledge and dedication.”
3904 Secor Rd. 419-474-2400. healthfoodsbyclaudia.com
9am-6pm, Monday-Saturday; 11am-5pm
Claudia K. David-Roscoe, owner
Since 1990

How does your business make an impact in the community?
We impact our community in a very positive way by proudly teaching the principles of natural healing and offering guidance for anyone seeking a different approach for their health. We are here from a place of knowledge, experience and Heartfelt dedication and grateful that so many in our community trust our guidance.

Three words to describe your business: 
Experience, knowledge and heart.

What do you love most about your job?
I’m so grateful to work in a health food store all these years because it has allowed me to work with thousands of people from every walk of life, to learn from what’s in their Heart and to witness what it truly means to heal the human body safely, naturally, wholly and Lovingly.

What is the best business advice you have ever received?
The best business advice I ever received was from an uncle that was a very successful businessman. He said in order to keep the doors open through the years and ups and downs in business…always know your margins. Simple but important advice!

What is your motto for how you run your business?
Our motto for running our business is that every member of our team is important and working together for the highest intention for ourselves, the business and every one walking through our doors is our goal.

Is there anything else you would like our readers to know?
I pray my legacy will be that people continue to learn the synergy between the human body and Nature’s pharmacy, honor the innate wisdom that connects them and learn the tools that empower our health safely, naturally and effectively.

Jeff’s Hauling & Cleanup

“Toledo area’s premier junk removal business serving residential and commercial clients.”
310 Mulberry St, Perrysburg. 419-508-3782. Find Jeff’s Hauling & Cleanup on Facebook.
Hours of operation: 8am-9pm
Owner: Jeff Hoffmann
Since 1999

LOCAL CONNECTION
Every interaction is a positive one and memorable one. Working directly with our clients I am able to create a connection with them and have a memorable experience. I have learned so much from speaking with my clients about their occupation, hobbies, etc. It is the connection and these interactions that are memorable to me. You’re more than a number to me, you’re a positive memory.

How does your business make an impact in the community? 
We live, work and support our local business in the Toledo area.

What do you love about this community?
Born and raised in the Toledo area. I love the diversity the Toledo area has to offer. We have so much to be thankful for in our little area of the earth.

Three words to describe your business:
Honest, hard-working, and professional.

What do you love most about your job?
Everything.

What is your motto for how you run your business? 
It’s easier to give superior customer service now, versus taking a customer complaint later.

What’s a local business that you love?
Rusty’s Roadtrip Food Truck.

Is there anything else you would like our readers to know?
We are licensed, insured,  BBB accredited with an A+ rating,  and we have also been voted the best junk removal company in the Toledo area. 

Lasalle Cleaners, Inc.

“As Northwest Ohio’s largest office pick-up and delivery dry cleaning service, we never lose sight of what is most important – providing a convenient, quality and cost-conscious program that is useful to everyone.”
Various locations.
419-242-2391.
lasallecleaners.com
Downtown Location Hours: 7am-6pm, Monday- Friday. 8am-3pm, Saturday. Closed Sunday.
Gary Resnick, President
Since 1930

Generations of Toledo customers have had their garments cared for by Lasalle, by generations of the Resnick family. Company president Gary Resnick and his wife Rachael are third generation dry cleaners, and their son Nate and his wife Rachael will follow in their footsteps. The company is also a dedicated and engaged part of the Toledo community, regularly donating to groups such as the Boys and Girls Club and the YMCA. With those family ties come a commitment to customer service that is second to none.

What is the best business advice you’ve received? 
Be patient, don’t make quick decisions based only on what is happening today.

What is your motto for how you run your business?
Our customers, employees, and vendors are our most important assets.

Maumee Bay Brewing Company

“Something for everyone from the Brew Pub to Rockwell’s their prime steakhouse as well as catering and events.”
27 Broadway St. 419-243-1302. mbaybrew.com
Hours of operation: 11am-10pm, Monday-Thursday; 11am-midnight, Friday; 10am-midnight, Saturday; 10am-9pm, Sunday
Patricia Appold, owner. Questions answered by: Danielle Perkins, General Manager
Since 1995

LOCAL CONNECTION
Being open 365 days a year, my most memorable experiences are getting to be a part of people’s holiday celebrations. Also having the opportunity to host weddings here is pretty special! There are times when we get to host a wedding here and people tell us stories about how their first date was at one of our restaurants.

How does your business make an impact in the community?
We offer something for everyone at MBBC, it is nice to be the destination for people to go for dinner or a fun event we are hosting. We try to partner with local charities to help give back to the community.

Three words to describe your business:
Beer, food, fun. 

What do you love most about your job?
I love my job because it is something new everyday! I get to work with great people and talk to great guests everyday. We have a lot of regulars that I see all of the time but we also get a lot of people that have not been to Toledo before and I get to talk to them about what Toledo has to offer. 

What is your motto for how you run your business?
Be the place that people want to work and you will also be the place that people want to eat. Happy staff = happy guests!

What is the best business advice you have ever received?
Take care of the team and they will take care of the guests. If I take care of my managers and staff they will take care of the guests, we have been fortunate not to have the staffing issues many restaurants have had over the last couple of years.

What are three local businesses that you love?
Jupmode, Maddie and Bella, Durty Bird.

Open Arms Wellness Center

“Therapy for the mind, body & soul.”
2300 Navarre Ave, Suite 204, Oregon. 419-720-8604. openarmsmassagestudio.com
9am-9pm, Monday-Friday; 9am-3pm, Saturday
Ashley J. Hirzel, owner
Since 2012

LOCAL CONNECTION
As a massage therapist and yoga therapist I find it remarkable what our bodies are truly telling us. Sometimes it’s the little aches and pains or sometimes it’s sleeping past your alarm. I was coming back from some time off and had accepted a new client on my schedule. She came to me from someone else and was hesitant to be on someone else’s massage table. I often assure anyone coming on my table and warn them that I will do my best and hopefully we will see some relief. She immediately said, “yeah, we’ll see.” I knew I had delivered one of the best massages I ever had given. The energy was flowing and her body was relaxing softly into the table within minutes of me beginning to work. When the massage was over, she came out of the treatment room absolutely astonished. She said she had traveled the world and never received that type of relief before and the flow felt smooth. She has continued coming to me ever since! Needless to say it’s never too late to try someone new. Your body may be calling for some healing!

How does your business make an impact in the community?
We work with our community to give back as much as we can through chair massage at charitable events and donations where needed.

What do you love about this community? 
I love everything about Toledo. My new love is kayaking in front of our mural! It just calls to me!

Three words to describe your business: 
A lost gem!

What do you love most about your job?
The power of touch! It is so beneficial!

What is your motto for how you run your business? Let’s see what today brings!

What’s your favorite local luxury?
Massage, of course!

What are three local businesses that you love?
Freight House Coffee, Pet Fanatics & not a “business” but Howard Marsh is where you find me most days on my kayak fishing!

Most used app?
Mindbody.

(l-r) Amy Drake, Alicia Gardiner, Lisa Butler 

The Pediatric Center Inc.

“A private medical office providing primary pediatric care to the children of Toledo and surrounding areas for over 35 years.”
3900 Sunforest Court, #215. 419-473-6670.
2702 Navarre Ave., #106, Oregon. 419-697-6777.
3417 Sterns Rd., Lambertville. 734-854-2428.
thepediatriccenterinc.com
Monday – Friday, 9am-5pm, closed for lunch 12:30-1:30pm
Lisa M. Butler, Amy Drake & Alicia Gardiner, owners. Questions answered by: Lisa M. Butler, Office Manager
Since 1985

LOCAL CONNECTION
Our business was opened by Lily Sim, M.D. and David Gemmill, M.D.One of the most rewarding experiences of working with The Pediatric Center Inc is the opportunity to become a “part” of the patient’s family. As care stretches through the years, we spend time talking about the whole family and everyone’s successes. The trust we build in the shy/scared child to become the child who runs in and gives you a hug is beyond rewarding.

How does your business make an impact in the community? 
We care for your children through the generations as we would care for our own children.

What do you love about this community?
Two of us are from Toledo and one from Bowling Green. The local sports comradery, beginning in grade school to high school events and then also the Toledo Mud Hens and the Walleyes.

Three words to describe your business:
Caring, compassionate and professional.

What is your motto for how you run your business?
To treat our work family with transparency and since we are their second home.

What’s your favorite local luxury?
Toledo Zoo and Toledo Public Libraries.

What are three local businesses that you love?
Buckeye Broadband. Stanley’s Market. Pasquale & Sons Shoe Repair.

Most used app?
Facebook – see us at Pediatric Center Inc.

Rosie’s Italian Grille

“Rosie’s is a tradition, a family tradition created from my mother Rosaria ‘Rosie’ Barone’s recipes and passed down to us, her kids, and something we now share with our community.”
606 N McCord Rd. 419-866-5007 rosiesitaliangrille.com
Phil Barone, owner
Since 1982

LOCAL CONNECTION
One time during lunch we had a lady dining out on our patio enjoying a glass of wine. I approached her and asked how everything was. She said she didn’t want to go back to work because she loved the patio and it felt like an Italian villa. I chuckled because that is exactly the environment I was going for when we designed our patios.

How does your business make an impact in the community?
Through Rosie’s, we are able to give back to our local community. We are constantly working with the community whether by donating gift cards, direct donations, or even when we put on our Jim Morrison tribute concert with my band Phil Barone and the Cruisers. Proceeds for those shows always go to a charity I really love called Unruly Arts.

What do you love about this community?
I was born and raised in West Toledo. What I love about our community is how family-friendly it is and the emphasis we have on supporting our local businesses. Plus, we have a really amazing music scene full of tons of talented artists.

Three words to describe your business:
Tradition, family and local.

What do you love most about your job?
What I love most about my ‘job’ is the people I surround myself with. They always say to do something you love and you’ll never have to work a day in your life.

What is your motto for how you run your business?
My motto has always been to treat others the way you wish to be treated. We think of all of our guests and employees as a part of our family, so I treat everyone with respect and gratitude.

Most used app?
I hate to admit it but I use Facebook the most.

Is there anything else you would like our readers to know?
If you haven’t been out to our new restaurant, Rosaria’s on 3rd Street, you have to check it out. We have a lot of great new dishes out there with a big emphasis on coastal Italian cuisine.

Schmucker’s Restaurant

“Schmucker’s is a 1948 family diner that offers home cooked comfort food and lots of amazing homemade pie.”
2103 N Reynolds Rd.
419-535-9116
schmuckersrestaurant.com
Hours of Operation: 6:30am-9pm, Monday-Saturday; Closed Sunday
Doug & Patty Schmucker, owners (questions answered by Doug)
Since 1948

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.

Spring Meadows Chiropractic

“A family oriented practice that treats newborns, pregnant moms, athletes of all ages and entire families.”
6823 Spring Valley Dr., Holland. 419-866-6525. springmeadowschiropractic.com
9am-6pm, Mondays and Wednesdays. 2-5pm, Tuesdays. 9am-noon, Thursdays. 9am-5:30pm, Fridays.
Dr. Jacek Czerwinski, Associate Chiropractor
Since 1997

LOCAL CONNECTION
One of my very first patients had numbness & tingling down to both hands and was told she needed surgery. After just two weeks of treatment all symptoms have been resolved.

How does your business make an impact in the community?
Our Chiropractic business impacts hundreds of people weekly & changes their lives. Many are hopeless and we give them hope with amazing results to get them back to doing the activities they love.

What do you love about this community?
I moved to Toledo in 2000. I attended St. Joan of Arc K-8 & St. John’s for high school. I love how the Toledo community is so friendly & close knit!

Three words to describe your business:
Passionate. Ethical. Persistent.

What do you love most about your job?
I love how every day I walk in knowing I am going to change people’s lives one day at a time.

What is your motto for how you run your business?Committed to giving the best quality care to the patient to improve their overall health & wellness and to get them back to enjoying the activities they love.

What is the best business advice you have ever received?
“Do what you love, love what you do and you will never work a day in your life.”

What are three local businesses that you love?
Barr’s Public House. Inside the Five. Corelife.

Toledo Alliance for the Performing Arts – home of the Toledo Symphony and Toledo Ballet 

“A community-centered artistic hub that presents the finest performing arts and educational programs in the region.”
Toledo Symphony,1838 Parkwood Ave., 419-246-8000, toledosymphony.com. Toledo Ballet, 5327 Monroe St., 419-471-0049, toledoballet.com.
Allie Dresser, Marketing Manager
Toledo Symphony: Since 1943
Toledo Ballet: Since 1939 

LOCAL CONNECTION
Toledo Alliance for the Performing Arts: TAPA, a 501(c)(3), was formed as a hub for the Toledo Symphony Orchestra and Toledo Ballet, two of the oldest performing arts organizations in northwest Ohio, with a mission to inspire our region to come together through the performing arts. 

In 2020, TAPA developed a streaming platform to deliver high-quality content to our audiences throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. It was challenging to learn and execute new technology in such a short amount of time but also very rewarding. I was working remotely at the time and vividly remember the conversations I had helping patrons step-by-step to get our streaming platform up and running in their own homes. Many of them reached out after our performances and were so happy to stay connected to our organization at a time when we were so distant from one another. I will never forget how memorable it was to play a small role in making that happen. 

How does your business make an impact in the community?  
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 (TAPA). Our vision for this combined entity is to bring our community together through the performing arts. 

Are you from Toledo? Toledo native? What do you love about this community? 
I grew up in a small town just outside of Toledo and have lived downtown since 2019. After becoming a true Toledoan, I have taken full advantage of everything the Glass City has to offer, including running in our beautiful area Metroparks, eating my way through every restaurant in town, attending live events of all types, strolling through our local farmers markets, and so much more. I feel lucky to live in such a vibrant community – there’s always something to do! 

Three words to describe your business: 
Creative. Inspiring. Community-focused. 

What do you love most about your job? 
I have the pleasure of working in a job that allows me to maximize my full potential, creatively and strategically. I’m lucky to work alongside talented people with the same values and goals. The past 5+ years at TAPA have been extremely rewarding and fulfilling.  

What is the best business advice you have ever received? 
Be kind to people and do your best! 

What are three local businesses that you love? 
I love and support many of our local businesses but if I had to choose only three, I would say Dave’s Running Shop, Hannon’s Block Restaurant and Metroparks Toledo. 

Is there anything else you would like our readers to know? 
From private music and dance instruction to world-class performances of many genres, the Toledo Alliance for the Performing Arts has something for everyone. Now is the time to take lessons on the instrument you always wanted to learn, experience a live symphony orchestra concert at one of our community’s stunning theaters, or sign up for adult ballet classes for the first time ever. It is our mission to bring our community together in lasting musical moments and to inspire the passions and spirit of our community through dance.

The Village Idiot

Voted Toledo’s Best Pizza along with Best Local Venue and boasting live music 365 days a year.”
309 Conant St. 419-893-7281. villageidiotmaumee.com
Hours: 11am-midnight, Sunday-Thursday; 11am-1am, Friday & Saturday
John Schaeffer, owner
Since 1997

What are some of the bar’s trademarks?
For over nearly two decades the Village Idiot in Maumee has hosted some of Toledo’s best pizza and great live music— seven days a week, 365 days a year, like clockwork. And after a hiatus in 2020, the bar is back to serving up some of the most memorable experiences for fans of both food and entertainment under owner John Schaeffer.

What kind of pizza does the Idiot offer?
Diners can totally customize their pie with a remarkable assortment of mouth-watering toppings, or try one of the Idiot’s trademark specialty pizzas. (Are you brave enough to try the Chef Surprise?)

Does the bar really offer live music every night?
The Idiot features live music seven days a week, from a remarkable assortment of Toledo’s most celebrated performers— not to mention it has hosted stops from nationally recognized acts like Dale Watson, Radio Free Honduras, Justin Townes Earl and more.

What can visitors expect from a visit?
Whether you want some delicious pizza, a great night of entertainment or just one of the area’s most memorable locations, the Village Idiot is the perfect destination.

We’ll Frame It

“We’ll Frame It is owner operated and we take the stress out of framing.”
328 W. Dussel Dr, Maumee. 419-897-0591. wellframeit.com
10am-6pm, Monday-Friday; 10am-4pm, Saturday
Rachel Wilcox, Owner
Since 1995

LOCAL CONNECTION
I had a customer that framed old swords for his Business partners memorial.  When I mentioned to the customer that his business partner had delivered my employees 2 children he was so touched that he was going to tell the story in the eulogy.  Each art work that we frame has a story and this story shows how our lives connect with others.

How does your business make an impact in the community? 
We’ll Frame It makes an impact on the community by framing memories that can be passed on from generation to generation.

What do you love about this community?
I love the art and music scene.

Three words to describe your business:
Creative, honest, friendly.

What do you love most about your job?
I love that every day I frame something new and there is always a story to go along with it. 

What is your motto for how you run your business?
My motto is to serve my customers the way I would want to be served and to frame their artwork the way I would like my artwork preserved.

What’s your favorite local luxury?
The Toledo Museum of Art and the Metroparks are my luxury.  They both recharge my batteries.

What is the best business advice you have ever received?
The best advice I have received is to have a business plan and a good accountant.  

What are three local businesses that you love?
Reve, Cocina de Carlos, Dave’s Running.

WPOS FM, 102.3 – Proclaim FM

Robin Sullivan, Winner of “Best Radio Show” on Proclaim FM, 102.3, host of the the afternoon drive show 3-7pm, Monday through Friday
Since 1966

How does your business make an impact in the community?
As one of the DJ’s on Proclaim FM, I am able to share the life changing Gospel every day in the afternoon drive, with the best, most uplifting music in the world!

What do you love about this community?
I am originally from Rhode Island, and spent much time in Detroit on the air, but am thrilled to now be a part of this vibrant community in Toledo. I love it here.

What do you love most about Toledo?
Toledo is filled with fabulous people, a loving and supportive community.

Three words to describe your business:
Communicating God’s love.

What do you love most about your job?
Sharing hope on the radio where hope is so desperately needed.

What is your motto for how you run your business?
The listener is the most important person.

What’s your favorite local luxury?
Shopping at Spring Meadows.

What is the best business advice you have ever received?
The customer comes first. Treat people the way you would want to be treated.

What are three local businesses that you love?
Chick-Fil-A. The YMCA. Jet’s.

Most used app?
Biblegateway.

Is there anything else you would like our readers to know?
Yes, you are loved by God! 

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

What was the last really great experience you had with a business? One that not only made you feel valued as a customer, but also valued as a person? We bet that was with a local business. We all understand the importance of supporting the area’s economy by shopping and getting services from local providers. However, the benefits of buying within our own community go beyond that. We asked some of Toledo’s trademark businesses questions about what they do and to share stories of their Local Connections, interactions with customers that made them proud to do business in the Glass City.

Dunright Building Services

Nobody does it better than Dunright Building Services.”
1020 Laskey Rd. 419-214-9264. dunrightbuildingservices.com
Hours: M-F 9am-5pm; weekends by appointment
Bill McConnell, Owner
Since 2011

For more than a decade, Dunright Building Services have been the first name in Toledo for home improvement. Founded in 2011 by Bill McConnell, the company has established its reputation home by home, providing quality services and products.

LOCAL CONNECTION
We once had a client who was disabled and needed some window work done. She could not afford the repair, so we agreed to order, purchase and install the windows as a gift. She has been a friend to the company ever since.

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What do you love most about your job?
Seeing a project that comes from an idea to completion and how extremely happy our clients can be.

What is your motto for how you run your business?
We often ask our clients, “How would you like a new house at the same address?” Or we treat our clients like we would want to be treated.

What is the best business advice you have ever received?
Integrity— it is difficult to build and easy to lose. If you have a dream or a goal, follow it, achieve it and enjoy it, no matter the time it takes or the risk involved.

What’s your favorite local luxury?
Anything by Lake Erie.

What are three local businesses that you love?
Charlie’s Taverna, Tuffy in Perrysburg, Twisty Treats in Perrysburg.

What services does Dunright provide?
Locally owned and operated, Dunright is a certified contractor that installs doors (entry, patio and storm doors), vinyl windows and siding (both vinyl and fiber cement). Owner Bill McConnell is proud of his business and, especially, the quality work they consistently do for their many customers. Bill is also proud and honored by the well-deserved BBB Torch Award for Ethics and Remodeling Magazine’s Big 50 Award bestowed upon his company.

What is the key to the way Dunright interacts with area customers?
Bill McConnell does not believe in surprises when it comes to remodeling, and Bill thinks you shouldn’t either. You will receive a free consultation and top quality products and workmanship. All Dunright jobs commence only after customer review and approval of all costs for labor, materials and installation.

What is Dunright’s legacy in the Toledo community?
Dunright has received many awards and honors for their work and professionalism — evidenced by the wall at their office covered with plaques. Having over 100 years of combined experience, you can trust Dunright Building Services for your next remodeling project — to do the job on time and on budget, and to make sure it is “done right.”

Cocina de Carlos, Carlos Poco Loco, Lupitas Cantina

“In my kitchen, nothing is ever frozen but the ice cubes.”
Cocina: 27072 Carronade Drive, Perrysburg; 206 Farnsworth Rd. Waterville
Poco Loco: 1809 Adams St.
Lupitas Cantina: 209 Louisiana Ave, Perrysburg
419-872-0200. carlosrestaurants.com
Hours of operation: Tuesday-Sunday 11am-9pm
Carlos Mendez, owner
Since 2010

How does your business make an impact in the community?
We try to support various local causes from schools, churches and non-profit associations. We also love to hire high school youth and instill respect and responsibility for work. Many of them start when they are 16 years old and some return to work in summer vacations until they finish their university. It is very motivating for us to see their growth and develop as people.

What do you love about this community?
I am originally from Mexico, but after 16 years in the Toledo area, I feel like a 419 guy. I have always given my best and I have always received a lot of love and support. I greatly admire the solidarity that is felt here and the multicultural respect

Three words to describe your business: 
Honesty, quality and family.

What do you love most about your job?
Interacting with so many people, both employees and their families as well as customers. I also feel great pride in my Mexican roots and how I can share this feeling through my food and business vision.

What is your motto for how you run your business? 
I treat everyone as I would like them to treat me.

What’s your favorite local luxury? 
Downtown Perrysburg, haha.

What is the best business advice you have ever received?
If the client does not come to you, go out and find him.

What are three local businesses that you love?
Only three? Swig, Basil, Balance.

Most used app?
Facebook.

Is there anything else you would like our readers to know?
Supporting local businesses is good, but also support local businesses that support other local businesses.

Consign-It Home Interiors

6925 West Central Ave. 419-841-4663. consignittoledo.com
10am-6pm, Monday-Friday; 10am-5pm, Saturday; Noon-5pm, Sunday; closed major holidays
Mike Smith, owner. Questions answered by Tony Rasczyk, general manager
Since 1997

LOCAL CONNECTION
Our business makes an impact in the community by recycling furniture and accessories, donating to various non profits and fundraisers, filling a need  where people can buy nice and affordable furniture and are able to take with them. Our employees are local and many of our customers are local; we do draw customers from 1-2 hours away.

Three words to describe your business: 
Eclectic, Everchanging, Inspiring

What do you love most about your job?
Our long time customers, getting new inventory every day, recycling good used furniture and our long time employees.

What is your motto for how you run your business? With myself as a leader, I set the tone. Lead by example.

What is the best business advice you have ever received?
You’ll always have a list; you just need to prioritize. There are only so many hours in the day.  

What do you love about this community?
The people, being able to get from one end of town to the other in 20 minutes and the variety of restaurants and people.  

Directions Credit Union

“Directions Credit Union is a community-based financial institution dedicated to serving the financial needs of its members.”
200 N. St. Clair St., Ste. 1600. 1-888-508-2228. directionscu.org
Barry A Shaner, CEO
Since 1953

LOCAL CONNECTION
One that always comes to mind is a young lady whose auto loan we refinanced.  Her current rate on her loan was more than twice what she would have qualified for with the credit union.  That one sticks with me because it illustrates the fact that borrowers who are young or just don’t have experience with financial services often end up paying way more than they should.  That was one of the reasons our credit union was founded in 1953.

How does your business make an impact in the community?
For many, managing their personal finances can be intimidating. For others, it is a chore. We help our members better understand how they can improve their financial lives and we make that as easy as possible.

What do you love about this community?
I did not grow up in Toledo, but I have lived here for 28 years (longer than anywhere else). I love living in a community that is a manageable size but offers so many things. The Toledo Symphony and our minor league sports options are my favorites.

Three words to describe your business:
Easy, Fair and There.

What do you love most about your job?
I love working for a mission based organization where I can just focus on what’s right.

What is your motto for how you run your business?
When we work together as a community, everyone can benefit. There are no winners and losers.

What’s your favorite local luxury?
A beer and a bag of peanuts at a Mud Hens game.

What is the best business advice you have ever received?
Change comes whether we embrace it or not, and trying to resist it instead of adapting to it is a sure way to fail.

Frankel Dentistry

5012 Talmadge Rd. 419-474-9611.
Frankel & Puhl
4359 Keystone Drive, Maumee. 419-893-0221.
jonfrankeldentistry.com
Hours of operation: Monday-Saturday, Evenings Available
100% Employee Owned. Questions answered by Pamela Weitzel, R.D.H., B.S.

Three words to describe your business: 
Best dental experience.

What do you love most about your job?
Living our core values at Frankel Dentistry makes us love Monday mornings! Always Better. Serve All. G.E.T. (Gratitude-Encouragement-Trust). Owner Mindset.

What is your motto for how you run your business? 
Changing lives a smile at a time is our mantra. The doctors, healthcare workers, and staff at Frankel Dentistry are grateful to serve the community through dentistry. 

What are three local businesses that you love?
There are dozens of local businesses we just couldn’t live without, so we have chosen the last three that exceeded our expectations. Jupmode, Balance, and Adams Street Publishing make us smile.

Is there anything else you would like our readers to know?
We receive two to three reviews from our patients everyday. This recent review is feedback for the experience of Toledo’s Locally Grown, Locally Owned Frankel Dentistry. 

“Dentists offices have been intimidating to me in my life. I go way back to where a dentist office was usually above a bank or other business and there was only the owning dentist working there. No free water or smiling faces to greet you, no 30 minute time set aside to get to know me as a person before meeting my mouth. THIS VISIT TO FRANKEL WAS AMAZING. My hygienist BECCI was the best, She explained everything that would happen and asked how I PREFERRED to have things explained. Becky and the dentist spent a lot of time with me and explained everything to my satisfaction. The checkout and checkin areas were clean and spacious…and very friendly. WELL DONE BECCI AND FRANKEL TEAM!
R.R.”

Health Foods by Claudia

“Our store is a trusted source for teaching the fundamental principles and tools of natural healing from firsthand experience, knowledge and dedication.”
3904 Secor Rd. 419-474-2400. healthfoodsbyclaudia.com
9am-6pm, Monday-Saturday; 11am-5pm
Claudia K. David-Roscoe, owner
Since 1990

How does your business make an impact in the community?
We impact our community in a very positive way by proudly teaching the principles of natural healing and offering guidance for anyone seeking a different approach for their health. We are here from a place of knowledge, experience and Heartfelt dedication and grateful that so many in our community trust our guidance.

Three words to describe your business: 
Experience, knowledge and heart.

What do you love most about your job?
I’m so grateful to work in a health food store all these years because it has allowed me to work with thousands of people from every walk of life, to learn from what’s in their Heart and to witness what it truly means to heal the human body safely, naturally, wholly and Lovingly.

What is the best business advice you have ever received?
The best business advice I ever received was from an uncle that was a very successful businessman. He said in order to keep the doors open through the years and ups and downs in business…always know your margins. Simple but important advice!

What is your motto for how you run your business?
Our motto for running our business is that every member of our team is important and working together for the highest intention for ourselves, the business and every one walking through our doors is our goal.

Is there anything else you would like our readers to know?
I pray my legacy will be that people continue to learn the synergy between the human body and Nature’s pharmacy, honor the innate wisdom that connects them and learn the tools that empower our health safely, naturally and effectively.

Jeff’s Hauling & Cleanup

“Toledo area’s premier junk removal business serving residential and commercial clients.”
310 Mulberry St, Perrysburg. 419-508-3782. Find Jeff’s Hauling & Cleanup on Facebook.
Hours of operation: 8am-9pm
Owner: Jeff Hoffmann
Since 1999

LOCAL CONNECTION
Every interaction is a positive one and memorable one. Working directly with our clients I am able to create a connection with them and have a memorable experience. I have learned so much from speaking with my clients about their occupation, hobbies, etc. It is the connection and these interactions that are memorable to me. You’re more than a number to me, you’re a positive memory.

How does your business make an impact in the community? 
We live, work and support our local business in the Toledo area.

What do you love about this community?
Born and raised in the Toledo area. I love the diversity the Toledo area has to offer. We have so much to be thankful for in our little area of the earth.

Three words to describe your business:
Honest, hard-working, and professional.

What do you love most about your job?
Everything.

What is your motto for how you run your business? 
It’s easier to give superior customer service now, versus taking a customer complaint later.

What’s a local business that you love?
Rusty’s Roadtrip Food Truck.

Is there anything else you would like our readers to know?
We are licensed, insured,  BBB accredited with an A+ rating,  and we have also been voted the best junk removal company in the Toledo area. 

Lasalle Cleaners, Inc.

“As Northwest Ohio’s largest office pick-up and delivery dry cleaning service, we never lose sight of what is most important – providing a convenient, quality and cost-conscious program that is useful to everyone.”
Various locations.
419-242-2391.
lasallecleaners.com
Downtown Location Hours: 7am-6pm, Monday- Friday. 8am-3pm, Saturday. Closed Sunday.
Gary Resnick, President
Since 1930

Generations of Toledo customers have had their garments cared for by Lasalle, by generations of the Resnick family. Company president Gary Resnick and his wife Rachael are third generation dry cleaners, and their son Nate and his wife Rachael will follow in their footsteps. The company is also a dedicated and engaged part of the Toledo community, regularly donating to groups such as the Boys and Girls Club and the YMCA. With those family ties come a commitment to customer service that is second to none.

What is the best business advice you’ve received? 
Be patient, don’t make quick decisions based only on what is happening today.

What is your motto for how you run your business?
Our customers, employees, and vendors are our most important assets.

Maumee Bay Brewing Company

“Something for everyone from the Brew Pub to Rockwell’s their prime steakhouse as well as catering and events.”
27 Broadway St. 419-243-1302. mbaybrew.com
Hours of operation: 11am-10pm, Monday-Thursday; 11am-midnight, Friday; 10am-midnight, Saturday; 10am-9pm, Sunday
Patricia Appold, owner. Questions answered by: Danielle Perkins, General Manager
Since 1995

LOCAL CONNECTION
Being open 365 days a year, my most memorable experiences are getting to be a part of people’s holiday celebrations. Also having the opportunity to host weddings here is pretty special! There are times when we get to host a wedding here and people tell us stories about how their first date was at one of our restaurants.

How does your business make an impact in the community?
We offer something for everyone at MBBC, it is nice to be the destination for people to go for dinner or a fun event we are hosting. We try to partner with local charities to help give back to the community.

Three words to describe your business:
Beer, food, fun. 

What do you love most about your job?
I love my job because it is something new everyday! I get to work with great people and talk to great guests everyday. We have a lot of regulars that I see all of the time but we also get a lot of people that have not been to Toledo before and I get to talk to them about what Toledo has to offer. 

What is your motto for how you run your business?
Be the place that people want to work and you will also be the place that people want to eat. Happy staff = happy guests!

What is the best business advice you have ever received?
Take care of the team and they will take care of the guests. If I take care of my managers and staff they will take care of the guests, we have been fortunate not to have the staffing issues many restaurants have had over the last couple of years.

What are three local businesses that you love?
Jupmode, Maddie and Bella, Durty Bird.

Open Arms Wellness Center

“Therapy for the mind, body & soul.”
2300 Navarre Ave, Suite 204, Oregon. 419-720-8604. openarmsmassagestudio.com
9am-9pm, Monday-Friday; 9am-3pm, Saturday
Ashley J. Hirzel, owner
Since 2012

LOCAL CONNECTION
As a massage therapist and yoga therapist I find it remarkable what our bodies are truly telling us. Sometimes it’s the little aches and pains or sometimes it’s sleeping past your alarm. I was coming back from some time off and had accepted a new client on my schedule. She came to me from someone else and was hesitant to be on someone else’s massage table. I often assure anyone coming on my table and warn them that I will do my best and hopefully we will see some relief. She immediately said, “yeah, we’ll see.” I knew I had delivered one of the best massages I ever had given. The energy was flowing and her body was relaxing softly into the table within minutes of me beginning to work. When the massage was over, she came out of the treatment room absolutely astonished. She said she had traveled the world and never received that type of relief before and the flow felt smooth. She has continued coming to me ever since! Needless to say it’s never too late to try someone new. Your body may be calling for some healing!

How does your business make an impact in the community?
We work with our community to give back as much as we can through chair massage at charitable events and donations where needed.

What do you love about this community? 
I love everything about Toledo. My new love is kayaking in front of our mural! It just calls to me!

Three words to describe your business: 
A lost gem!

What do you love most about your job?
The power of touch! It is so beneficial!

What is your motto for how you run your business? Let’s see what today brings!

What’s your favorite local luxury?
Massage, of course!

What are three local businesses that you love?
Freight House Coffee, Pet Fanatics & not a “business” but Howard Marsh is where you find me most days on my kayak fishing!

Most used app?
Mindbody.

(l-r) Amy Drake, Alicia Gardiner, Lisa Butler 

The Pediatric Center Inc.

“A private medical office providing primary pediatric care to the children of Toledo and surrounding areas for over 35 years.”
3900 Sunforest Court, #215. 419-473-6670.
2702 Navarre Ave., #106, Oregon. 419-697-6777.
3417 Sterns Rd., Lambertville. 734-854-2428.
thepediatriccenterinc.com
Monday – Friday, 9am-5pm, closed for lunch 12:30-1:30pm
Lisa M. Butler, Amy Drake & Alicia Gardiner, owners. Questions answered by: Lisa M. Butler, Office Manager
Since 1985

LOCAL CONNECTION
Our business was opened by Lily Sim, M.D. and David Gemmill, M.D.One of the most rewarding experiences of working with The Pediatric Center Inc is the opportunity to become a “part” of the patient’s family. As care stretches through the years, we spend time talking about the whole family and everyone’s successes. The trust we build in the shy/scared child to become the child who runs in and gives you a hug is beyond rewarding.

How does your business make an impact in the community? 
We care for your children through the generations as we would care for our own children.

What do you love about this community?
Two of us are from Toledo and one from Bowling Green. The local sports comradery, beginning in grade school to high school events and then also the Toledo Mud Hens and the Walleyes.

Three words to describe your business:
Caring, compassionate and professional.

What is your motto for how you run your business?
To treat our work family with transparency and since we are their second home.

What’s your favorite local luxury?
Toledo Zoo and Toledo Public Libraries.

What are three local businesses that you love?
Buckeye Broadband. Stanley’s Market. Pasquale & Sons Shoe Repair.

Most used app?
Facebook – see us at Pediatric Center Inc.

Rosie’s Italian Grille

“Rosie’s is a tradition, a family tradition created from my mother Rosaria ‘Rosie’ Barone’s recipes and passed down to us, her kids, and something we now share with our community.”
606 N McCord Rd. 419-866-5007 rosiesitaliangrille.com
Phil Barone, owner
Since 1982

LOCAL CONNECTION
One time during lunch we had a lady dining out on our patio enjoying a glass of wine. I approached her and asked how everything was. She said she didn’t want to go back to work because she loved the patio and it felt like an Italian villa. I chuckled because that is exactly the environment I was going for when we designed our patios.

How does your business make an impact in the community?
Through Rosie’s, we are able to give back to our local community. We are constantly working with the community whether by donating gift cards, direct donations, or even when we put on our Jim Morrison tribute concert with my band Phil Barone and the Cruisers. Proceeds for those shows always go to a charity I really love called Unruly Arts.

What do you love about this community?
I was born and raised in West Toledo. What I love about our community is how family-friendly it is and the emphasis we have on supporting our local businesses. Plus, we have a really amazing music scene full of tons of talented artists.

Three words to describe your business:
Tradition, family and local.

What do you love most about your job?
What I love most about my ‘job’ is the people I surround myself with. They always say to do something you love and you’ll never have to work a day in your life.

What is your motto for how you run your business?
My motto has always been to treat others the way you wish to be treated. We think of all of our guests and employees as a part of our family, so I treat everyone with respect and gratitude.

Most used app?
I hate to admit it but I use Facebook the most.

Is there anything else you would like our readers to know?
If you haven’t been out to our new restaurant, Rosaria’s on 3rd Street, you have to check it out. We have a lot of great new dishes out there with a big emphasis on coastal Italian cuisine.

Schmucker’s Restaurant

“Schmucker’s is a 1948 family diner that offers home cooked comfort food and lots of amazing homemade pie.”
2103 N Reynolds Rd.
419-535-9116
schmuckersrestaurant.com
Hours of Operation: 6:30am-9pm, Monday-Saturday; Closed Sunday
Doug & Patty Schmucker, owners (questions answered by Doug)
Since 1948

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.

Spring Meadows Chiropractic

“A family oriented practice that treats newborns, pregnant moms, athletes of all ages and entire families.”
6823 Spring Valley Dr., Holland. 419-866-6525. springmeadowschiropractic.com
9am-6pm, Mondays and Wednesdays. 2-5pm, Tuesdays. 9am-noon, Thursdays. 9am-5:30pm, Fridays.
Dr. Jacek Czerwinski, Associate Chiropractor
Since 1997

LOCAL CONNECTION
One of my very first patients had numbness & tingling down to both hands and was told she needed surgery. After just two weeks of treatment all symptoms have been resolved.

How does your business make an impact in the community?
Our Chiropractic business impacts hundreds of people weekly & changes their lives. Many are hopeless and we give them hope with amazing results to get them back to doing the activities they love.

What do you love about this community?
I moved to Toledo in 2000. I attended St. Joan of Arc K-8 & St. John’s for high school. I love how the Toledo community is so friendly & close knit!

Three words to describe your business:
Passionate. Ethical. Persistent.

What do you love most about your job?
I love how every day I walk in knowing I am going to change people’s lives one day at a time.

What is your motto for how you run your business?Committed to giving the best quality care to the patient to improve their overall health & wellness and to get them back to enjoying the activities they love.

What is the best business advice you have ever received?
“Do what you love, love what you do and you will never work a day in your life.”

What are three local businesses that you love?
Barr’s Public House. Inside the Five. Corelife.

Toledo Alliance for the Performing Arts – home of the Toledo Symphony and Toledo Ballet 

“A community-centered artistic hub that presents the finest performing arts and educational programs in the region.”
Toledo Symphony,1838 Parkwood Ave., 419-246-8000, toledosymphony.com. Toledo Ballet, 5327 Monroe St., 419-471-0049, toledoballet.com.
Allie Dresser, Marketing Manager
Toledo Symphony: Since 1943
Toledo Ballet: Since 1939 

LOCAL CONNECTION
Toledo Alliance for the Performing Arts: TAPA, a 501(c)(3), was formed as a hub for the Toledo Symphony Orchestra and Toledo Ballet, two of the oldest performing arts organizations in northwest Ohio, with a mission to inspire our region to come together through the performing arts. 

In 2020, TAPA developed a streaming platform to deliver high-quality content to our audiences throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. It was challenging to learn and execute new technology in such a short amount of time but also very rewarding. I was working remotely at the time and vividly remember the conversations I had helping patrons step-by-step to get our streaming platform up and running in their own homes. Many of them reached out after our performances and were so happy to stay connected to our organization at a time when we were so distant from one another. I will never forget how memorable it was to play a small role in making that happen. 

How does your business make an impact in the community?  
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 (TAPA). Our vision for this combined entity is to bring our community together through the performing arts. 

Are you from Toledo? Toledo native? What do you love about this community? 
I grew up in a small town just outside of Toledo and have lived downtown since 2019. After becoming a true Toledoan, I have taken full advantage of everything the Glass City has to offer, including running in our beautiful area Metroparks, eating my way through every restaurant in town, attending live events of all types, strolling through our local farmers markets, and so much more. I feel lucky to live in such a vibrant community – there’s always something to do! 

Three words to describe your business: 
Creative. Inspiring. Community-focused. 

What do you love most about your job? 
I have the pleasure of working in a job that allows me to maximize my full potential, creatively and strategically. I’m lucky to work alongside talented people with the same values and goals. The past 5+ years at TAPA have been extremely rewarding and fulfilling.  

What is the best business advice you have ever received? 
Be kind to people and do your best! 

What are three local businesses that you love? 
I love and support many of our local businesses but if I had to choose only three, I would say Dave’s Running Shop, Hannon’s Block Restaurant and Metroparks Toledo. 

Is there anything else you would like our readers to know? 
From private music and dance instruction to world-class performances of many genres, the Toledo Alliance for the Performing Arts has something for everyone. Now is the time to take lessons on the instrument you always wanted to learn, experience a live symphony orchestra concert at one of our community’s stunning theaters, or sign up for adult ballet classes for the first time ever. It is our mission to bring our community together in lasting musical moments and to inspire the passions and spirit of our community through dance.

The Village Idiot

Voted Toledo’s Best Pizza along with Best Local Venue and boasting live music 365 days a year.”
309 Conant St. 419-893-7281. villageidiotmaumee.com
Hours: 11am-midnight, Sunday-Thursday; 11am-1am, Friday & Saturday
John Schaeffer, owner
Since 1997

What are some of the bar’s trademarks?
For over nearly two decades the Village Idiot in Maumee has hosted some of Toledo’s best pizza and great live music— seven days a week, 365 days a year, like clockwork. And after a hiatus in 2020, the bar is back to serving up some of the most memorable experiences for fans of both food and entertainment under owner John Schaeffer.

What kind of pizza does the Idiot offer?
Diners can totally customize their pie with a remarkable assortment of mouth-watering toppings, or try one of the Idiot’s trademark specialty pizzas. (Are you brave enough to try the Chef Surprise?)

Does the bar really offer live music every night?
The Idiot features live music seven days a week, from a remarkable assortment of Toledo’s most celebrated performers— not to mention it has hosted stops from nationally recognized acts like Dale Watson, Radio Free Honduras, Justin Townes Earl and more.

What can visitors expect from a visit?
Whether you want some delicious pizza, a great night of entertainment or just one of the area’s most memorable locations, the Village Idiot is the perfect destination.

We’ll Frame It

“We’ll Frame It is owner operated and we take the stress out of framing.”
328 W. Dussel Dr, Maumee. 419-897-0591. wellframeit.com
10am-6pm, Monday-Friday; 10am-4pm, Saturday
Rachel Wilcox, Owner
Since 1995

LOCAL CONNECTION
I had a customer that framed old swords for his Business partners memorial.  When I mentioned to the customer that his business partner had delivered my employees 2 children he was so touched that he was going to tell the story in the eulogy.  Each art work that we frame has a story and this story shows how our lives connect with others.

How does your business make an impact in the community? 
We’ll Frame It makes an impact on the community by framing memories that can be passed on from generation to generation.

What do you love about this community?
I love the art and music scene.

Three words to describe your business:
Creative, honest, friendly.

What do you love most about your job?
I love that every day I frame something new and there is always a story to go along with it. 

What is your motto for how you run your business?
My motto is to serve my customers the way I would want to be served and to frame their artwork the way I would like my artwork preserved.

What’s your favorite local luxury?
The Toledo Museum of Art and the Metroparks are my luxury.  They both recharge my batteries.

What is the best business advice you have ever received?
The best advice I have received is to have a business plan and a good accountant.  

What are three local businesses that you love?
Reve, Cocina de Carlos, Dave’s Running.

WPOS FM, 102.3 – Proclaim FM

Robin Sullivan, Winner of “Best Radio Show” on Proclaim FM, 102.3, host of the the afternoon drive show 3-7pm, Monday through Friday
Since 1966

How does your business make an impact in the community?
As one of the DJ’s on Proclaim FM, I am able to share the life changing Gospel every day in the afternoon drive, with the best, most uplifting music in the world!

What do you love about this community?
I am originally from Rhode Island, and spent much time in Detroit on the air, but am thrilled to now be a part of this vibrant community in Toledo. I love it here.

What do you love most about Toledo?
Toledo is filled with fabulous people, a loving and supportive community.

Three words to describe your business:
Communicating God’s love.

What do you love most about your job?
Sharing hope on the radio where hope is so desperately needed.

What is your motto for how you run your business?
The listener is the most important person.

What’s your favorite local luxury?
Shopping at Spring Meadows.

What is the best business advice you have ever received?
The customer comes first. Treat people the way you would want to be treated.

What are three local businesses that you love?
Chick-Fil-A. The YMCA. Jet’s.

Most used app?
Biblegateway.

Is there anything else you would like our readers to know?
Yes, you are loved by God! 

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