Musicians on a budget should look into Toledoan Ron Pollman's latest venture, The Used Music Shop, at 2425 W. Laskey (next to Sommerset Hall). Pollman, who has 47 years in the music business with former shops Ron's Music and Toledo Musical Instrument exchange, has created a new hub for buying, selling and swapping musical equipment. So get ready to start practicing again! 419-377-8964. Facebook page: The Used Music Shop.
We can walk a bit prouder, as retired orthopedic surgeon Tom Merritt, M.D. opens the first Toledo location of international shoe retailer Foot Solutions. The chain sells custom fitted footwear and health and wellness products from over 175 stores in 13 countries with an emphasis on professional personal service. The new location, slated for a January opening, is in the Talmadge Town Center at 4204 W. Sylvania Ave, near Westfield Franklin Park. 888-348-3668. www.footsolutions.com.
There's hope for a return of cheesy goodness, as fondue chain The Melting Pot plans to open a new location at Westfield Franklin Park in early 2013. This will be the franchise's second foray into the Toledo restaurant market; their former location on Monroe St. near US-23 closed in fall 2011. www.meltingpot.com.
Irish Eyes Heavenly Pub, the new themed spot from the owner of Tres Belle and La Casa De La Habana that we reported on previously in marketplace changes, has opened its doors. Chef John Keane’s Emerald Isle-inspired menu is heavy on spuds (there’s even a chocolate potato cake), and includes other culinary delights, like Guinness beer cheese soup. 3324 Secor Rd. (in the Home Depot plaza near Subway). 419-531-2427. www.irisheyesheavenlypub.com.
Take a deep breath — O2 Experience, Toledo's own "oxygen bar," has closed the doors of their 5201 Monroe St. location after several months in business. They're searching for a new home, and in the meantime plan to offer their services at private parties and events. www.facebook.com/o2toledo
Toledoans have to go a bit further for their white chicken chili and seafood, as Chowder's 'n Moor closes its Holland location on Airport Highway. They'll continue to offer your favorites at the Waterville location at 312 South St. 419-878-9105. www.chowdersnmoor.com.
It might not help your studies like that other library, but new bar The Library hopes to be just as important a destination for students — and everyone else. Under manager Danny Ruiz, the pub, on West Bancroft next to Rick's City Diner (the space formerly occupied by the Ale House) will offer a classy experience with live music, karaoke and more. 2633 W. Bancroft. 419-725-8401.
The Olive Tree's all-natural, alternative health approach won't be on offer in 2013 — the health store announced it will close on Saturday, December 29th. They'll end their run by offering 20 percent off all their products. A perfect chance to snap up some supplements? 3355 Briarfield Blvd. (in the shopping center next to Pyure Salon & Spa). 419-480-7530. www.facebook.com/OliveTreeHealthMaumee.
