Blizzard Bill Spencer: Toledo Meteorologist Still Predicting the Weather After 46 Years
TOP 5 STORIES FROM OUR WEBSITE
1. Blizzard Bill Spencer: Legendary Meteorologist Stll Predicting the Weather After 46 years
2. Mature Living Calendar of Events
3. YMCA to Add Sylvania Township Facility
4. Get Discounts Across Ohio with the Golden Buckeye Card
5. Local RailroadUnderground Sites Mapped Out
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Wayman D. Palmer YMCA Earns National Community Development Award
2,000, with expanded senior programs, youth services, food access and health initiatives strengthening Toledo’s Warren Sherman neighborhood. 200 E. Bancroft. 419-241-7218. ymcatoledo.org/branch/wayman-d-palmer
Sauder Heritage Inn Named Ohio Property of the Year
Sauder Heritage Inn has been named the 2025 Unique Lodging of Ohio Property of the Year by the Ohio Hotel and Lodging Association. Presented at the association’s annual conference, the award honors independently owned properties that demonstrate innovation, quality and excellence in guest experience. 22611 State Rte 2, Archbold. 800-590-9755. saudervillage. org/heritage-inn
TMA Named Top Art Museum in Country for Second Straight Year
Toledo Museum of Art has been named the Best Art Museum in America and Best Free Art Museum for the second consecutive year by the USA Today 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards. Competing against major institutions, TMA earned the top spot through public voting. 419255-8000. ToledoMuseum.org.
FirstLight Home Care Sylvania–Perrysburg Expands Compassionate In-Home Care Across
Northwest Ohio
FirstLight Home Care of Sylvania–Perrysburg continues to grow as a trusted provider of non-medical home care services, helping seniors and adults live safely and independently at home. Led by President and CEO Brian Epstein, the organization emphasizes caregiver-to-client matching, professional training and strong community partnerships to deliver personalized care and peace of mind for families. 5749 Park Center Ct. 419-5174612. firstlighthomecare.com
Second in the Nation — First in Great Lakes Stories
Big news on the waterfront!
The National Museum of the Great Lakes has been named the #2 Maritime Museum in the country by USA Today 10 Best, ranking second out of 20 outstanding maritime museums nationwide. nmgl.org
Leading Families Home Celebrates Acquisition of
Family House
Leading Families Home has announced the acquisition of Family House, uniting two of northwest Ohio’s long-standing family shelter organizations under one mission: strengthening housing stability and expanding services for families experiencing crisis. The acquisition, which took effect in January 2026, was supported by $290,000 in funding from the City of Toledo and a $20,000 Strategic Alliance Partnership Grant from the Greater Toledo Community Foundation. 2283 Ashland Ave. 419-244-2175. lfhtoledo.org
Gene Parker’s Jazz Life
60-years on Toledo stages
By Melissa Lee
On any given night in Toledo, if you listen closely enough, you might hear Gene Parker.
Maybe it is the warm swell of a saxophone drifting through a packed club or the crisp shimmer of vibraphone notes cutting through a big band chart. Maybe you’re hearing Gene in a classroom, with a young musician gripping an instrument for the first time, leaning in, patiently instructing. For more than half a century, Parker has played music in Toledo, defining the city’s sound.
And at 82, Parker is still at it. “I’ve played every hall, every church, every school, every nightclub,” he says. “Every musician in Toledo; I’ve worked with them at some point.”
Built in Toledo, trained for the world
Parker’s musical journey began at age seven continuing through high school, and study at the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music under renowned saxophonist Carmen Campione. Parker returned to Northwest Ohio and built a career that blended performance and education long before jazz studies became common in area schools.
By the early 1960s, Parker was teaching the elements of jazz, decades ahead of a national movement to formalize jazz education.
“I’ve been teaching since 1959,” he says. “Thousands of students, public schools, colleges, private lessons. Teaching just as important to me as performing.”
His reach across institutions is staggering: Bowling Green State University, the University of Toledo and now Ohio Northern University and Wayne State University in Detroit. Along the way, he has directed jazz bands, led faculty ensembles and mentored generations of musicians who carry his influence far beyond our region.
A musician’s musician
To call Parker a saxophonist feels incomplete. A true multi-instrumentalist, equally at home on clarinet, flute, piano, bass, percussion and Hammond B3 organ, his versatility landed him on stages with some of the biggest names in American music.
Over the years, Parker has performed with legends like Dizzy Gillespie, Tony Bennett, Nancy Wilson, Mel Tormé and Sammy Davis Jr. He’s appeared with symphony orchestras in Toledo and Detroit, played festivals including Montreux and even performed at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. But despite a career that offered to take him to far off places, Parker stayed rooted in Toledo. “I could have left,” he says. “But my family’s here. My friends are here. I love Toledo.”
The Detroit contrast
Much of Parker’s professional work has taken him north to the Motor City. “In Detroit, the clubs are full,” he says. “Even when people don’t have money, they show up. They support what they love.”
That’s a stark contrast to what he sees at home. “Toledo is struggling with live music right now,” Parker says. “People say there’s nothing to do but we’re out here playing to empty rooms sometimes. It’s not about money. It’s about presence. Just being there.”
For Parker, the issue isn’t talent, it’s attention. “We’ve got great musicians. Always have. But if people don’t come out, it (great performances) disappear(s).”
Recognition and responsibility
In recent years, 0Toledo has begun to formally recognize what many already knew. Parker has received the Key to the City of Toledo, the Glass City Award and the Great Lakes Jazz Award in 2024.
But for Parker, awards are secondary to impact. “What matters is keeping this alive,” he says. “Music doesn’t survive without people.”
A call to the community
After more than 60 years on stage, Parker’s message is simple and urgent. “Whatever you’re into, you need to support it,” he says. “Go out. Show up. That’s how it continues.”
That’s not nostalgia talking. It’s a working musician who still performs four to six times a week, still teaches, still believes in the power of a live room filled with sound and people. “I love Toledo,” Parker says. “I just want to see it love its music.”
For decades, Gene Parker has been the soundtrack and he’s asking the city to listen.
Q&A
with Gene Parker
Most important thing I’ve learned: Put people first.
Best professional memory: Playing with Dizzy Gillespie.
Worst professional memory: There wasn’t one, as long as I was playing, I was happy.
Your greatest adventure…
This past summer I toured Europe on a vacation to Paris and Italy. It was surreal.
Favorite motto/words to live by: Work hard and people will notice.
If you could tell the world anything, what would it be? Keep in your own lane.
As a child, I wanted to be: A musician.
The artist who inspires me is: My mother.
What age would you be again and why? Same age I am right now because I see things in front of me instead of behind me.
Gene Parker, Toledo’s own jazz man.
THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING
A WORLD-CLASS MIGRATION SPECTACLE ON LAKE ERIE
Every spring, northwest Ohio becomes the epicenter of birdwatching during The Biggest Week in American Birding, a 10-day period celebrating peak songbird migration along the Lake Erie shoreline. Hosted by the Black Swamp Bird Observatory, the event attracts birders from across the country to witness colorful warblers and hundreds of migrating species at hotspots like Magee Marsh Wildlife Area. The 2026 season runs May 8–17 and features guided bird walks, bird identification workshops, keynote presentations, and family-friendly activities. biggestweekinamericanbirding.com
BIRD WALKS & DAY TRIPS
EXPLORE NORTHWEST OHIO’S BEST BIRDING HOT SPOTS
Experience the incredible spring migration with a series of guided Bird Walks & Day Trips hosted by The Toledo Zoo & Aquarium. Led by resident ornithologist Brittany Leick-Laird, these outings explore some of the region’s most celebrated birding destinations along Lake Erie’s shoreline. Walks are scheduled on Saturday, Apr. 4 from 9 am–12pm, Saturday, April 18 from 9–11 am, and Thursday, Apr. 23 from 10:30 am–12 pm Registration is required. 2 Hippo Way. toledozoo.org/birding/ birding-day-trips
SPRING LECTURE SERIES –THE LOSS OF THE CLOUGH
Discover a dramatic chapter of Great Lakes history during the Spring Lecture Series at the National Museum of the Great Lakes. Shipwreck researcher Chris Kraska will present The Unfinished Sinking—Exploration, Discovery, and an Unexpected Tragedy, sharing the story of a recently discovered shipwreck tied to the historic loss of the Clough. The program is free and offered both in person and online via Zoom, though registration is required. Wednesday, April 15, 7–8:30 pm. National Museum of the Great Lakes, 1701 Front St. nmgl.org
MUSIC IN GREEN SPACES
OPERA UNDER THE OPEN SKY
Enjoy an evening of beautiful music in nature during the Music in Green Spaces concert series at Wildwood Preserve Metropark. Presented as part of Opera ’Round Town, the performances feature talented resident artists from Toledo Opera singing beloved selections from the classical repertoire alongside musical theater favorites and American standards. Bring a lawn chair or picnic blanket and relax on the front lawn of the Manor House. In case of rain, the performance will move indoors to the Manor House. No registration required. Wednesdays - April 22, Apr. 29, May 6, May 13, and May 20, 6-7pm. Wildwood Preserve Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. metroparkstoledo.com
FOOD + DRINK
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Television Station
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Premier Dining Experience In A Senior Living Community
Entertainment In A Senior Living Community
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Categories We Missed
LOCAL
More independent pharmacies in Toledo
By Jeff Glick
The Toledo landscape is strewn with the carcasses of big box, chain pharmacy stores. Chain pharmacies closed a total of 191 stores in Ohio in the last 10 years, including 35 that were closed in 2025. Also, the hulks of CVS stores, which were left when the chain left the Toledo market in 2001 remain, passed over when the chain returned to the area in 2013, when additional structures were built. Now the landscape is dotted with Walgreen’s stores and any number of pharmacies at big grocery retailers like Meijer, Kroger and Walmart. While some chain pharmacies and multi-function big box stores remain, there has been an influx of independent pharmacies into our community. Toledo has had some independent pharmacies that have been around for decades, like Monroe Pharmacy, Kahler Pharmacy, Ryan Pharmacy and Lagrange Pharmacy. In the recent past, new independents have set up shop in the Toledo area, which raises questions —Why is the pharmacy market so volatile and why do independents see Toledo a fertile field of opportunity? Why the Toledo area? And why now?
Benefits of Independent Pharmacies in the Toledo area
When assessing the benefits of independent pharmacies, there are some broad categories that can be seen in the market.
1. Personalized service & relationships. Independent pharmacies tend to know their customers by name, understand their medical histories, and are more likely to spend extra time explaining things. Independent pharmacies emphasize one-on-one patient counseling.
2. Convenience & responsiveness. They often offer services aimed at being more flexible: free delivery, prescription synchronization (so multiple meds are refilled together), more flexible hours or locations. Sylvania Family Pharmacy and Mayberry Pharmacy have recently opened second locations to bridge service gaps created by chain-store closures.
3. Competitive pricing and transparency. Many independent pharmacies work hard to keep costs low, especially for generics. They may also be more willing to discuss cost-saving alternatives, help you access patient assistance programs, or find ways to reduce copays.
4. Community impact & local ownership. These pharmacies are invested in Toledo’s wellbeing. They contribute to the local economy, fill in when chains leave, serve underserved areas, and sometimes focus on health disparities (e.g. Junction Family Pharmacy and Toledo Family Pharmacy, which are Black-owned, aims to address gaps in healthcare access in certain Toledo neighborhoods).
5. Additional services. Durable medical equipment, multi-dose packaging, medication therapy management, immunizations are options that independent pharmacies in Toledo commonly offer.
Should I choose an Independent Pharmacy?
With the advent of more independents in the Toledo market, consumers, and those seeking medication and prescription service, have the opportunity to make a choice. Here are some questions that can be asked to determine if an independent is the right selection for your pharmacy needs.
Do you accept my insurance or prescription benefit plan? Some independent pharmacies might not take every insurer.
What are your prices for generics vs brand-name drugs? Is there transparency in pricing?
Do you offer delivery, or pickup by appointment, or mail order?
What are your hours, and how soon can you fill new prescriptions?
What additional services do you provide (vaccines, MTM medication therapy management, durable medical equipment, automatic fills, etc.)?
How do you handle situations when a drug is out of stock?
What are the policies for medication synchronization or automatic refills?
What is your transfer prescription policy if I change providers?
How do you manage privacy, and how are pharmacists involved in patient counseling?
Do you call or text when a prescription is ready to be picked up?
Things to consider and potential drawbacks
While there are potential benefits of patronizing an independent pharmacy, there are also things to consider that may dissuade consumers from going that route. The considerations may be more pronounced depending on the needs of each individual and should be evaluated when deciding whether to move from a chain provider to an independent.
1. Limited inventory or variety. Smaller pharmacies may not stock as wide a range of over-the-counter products, brand-name drugs, or specialty medications compared to large chain stores. If a drug isn’t in stock, there may be more delays or effort required to get it.
2. Cost vs scale. Sometimes chain pharmacies leverage bulk purchasing or benefit from scale in ways that independents cannot; this can mean higher costs in some cases, although many independents counteract this through customer service or by joining buying groups.
3. Insurance / Billing issues. Some independents may not be preferred pharmacies under certain plans or may have difficulty with certain prescription benefit managers (PBMs). Coverage, copays, or reimbursement might differ. These can be significantly affected by mail order options.
4. Hours & staffing. Independents sometimes have more limited hours (weekends, late evenings), smaller staff, which can impact speed of service, availability of pharmacist help during busy times or emergencies.
5. Sustainability. The business climate for independent pharmacies is tough across the U.S. with pressure from PBMs pharmacy benefit managers, third-party intermediaries in the prescription drug supply chain, insurance reimbursement rates, regulatory requirements, etc. An independent may be more sensitive to economic shifts.
6. Location & convenience. The location matters: if the pharmacy is far from your workplace or home, the convenience advantage may be lost. Also, convenient parking, easy accessibility, and days/hours of operation matter.
Social Security Guide
YOUR LIFELONG PARTNER
Welcome, from the Social Security Administration
By Erin Thompson, Public Affairs Specialist Toledo, OH
This is the third edition of “Social Security- Your Lifelong Partner.” I would like to thank Mature Living for the time, effort, resources, expertise, and expense they have given to promote and provide this public service supplement to Northwest Ohio.
In this section, you will receive valuable information on a multitude of topics, as Social Security truly touches everyone’s life from birth to death. You will read about benefits for people of all ages, information on fraud, Retirement, Disability, Medicare, and how to access your own record through your “my Social Security” account.
As different situations arise in your life, this can become a handy reference to provide accurate information. It is our hope “Social Security- Your Lifelong Partner” will be beneficial to you and your family. Please keep this Social Security supplement and refer to it as issues and concerns arise.
***Produced at US Taxpayer Expense
How to Contact Social Security Visit the website at www.ssa.gov
Doing business with Social Security online is fast, convenient, and secure. You can get a quick and accurate estimate of your future retirement benefits, use the online planners to prepare for retirement, obtain your Social Security Statement and even apply for Social Security retirement, disability and Medicare online. It is also a valuable resource for information about all of Social Security’s programs, including a person’s own account at www.ssa.gov/myaccount
Ask the Expert SOCIAL SECURITY& RETIREMENT
QUESTION: My father receives social security retirement benefits and i will be in charge of his estate when he dies. Should that occur, do i need to report his death to social security or will benefits automatically stop?
ANSWER: When your father dies, please notify Social Security as soon as possible at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). Another person, such as a spouse, may be eligible for survivors benefits based on his record. Also, we might be able to pay a one-time payment of $255 to help with funeral expenses. We suggest reading a copy of our online publication, How Social Security Can Help You When A Family Member Dies, at www.ssa. gov/pubs/10008.html.
QUESTION: I’m trying to decide when to retire. Can Social Security help?
ANSWER: The best place to start is with a visit to the online Social Security Statement. The Statement provides you with estimates of benefits for you and your family as well as your earnings record and information you should consider about retirement and retirement planning. It is easy to access your statement online by creating a my Social Security account. To create an account, please visit www.ssa. gov/myaccount. The “right” time to retire is different for everyone and depends on your individual situation. To help you make your own decision, we offer an online fact sheet, When To Start Receiving Retirement Benefits, that highlights some of the factors to consider. Find this publication at www.ssa.gov/pubs/10147.html.
QUESTION: I’ve decided I want to retire. Now what do I do?
ANSWER: The fastest and easiest way to apply for retirement benefits is to go to www.ssa.gov/retireonline. Use our online application to apply for Social Security retirement or spouses benefits. To do so, you must:
• Be at least 61 years and 9 months old.
• Want to start your benefits in the next four months.
• Live in the United States or one of its commonwealths or territories.
QUESTION: I plan to retire soon. When are Social Security benefits paid?
ANSWER: Social Security benefits are paid each month. Generally, new retirees receive their benefits on either the second, third, or fourth Wednesday of each month, depending on the day in the month the retiree was born. If you receive benefits as a spouse, your benefit payment date will be determined by your spouse’s birth date. Here’s a chart showing how your monthly payment date is determined:
For a calendar showing actual payment dates, see the Schedule of Social Security Benefit Payments at www.ssa.gov/pubs.
Call the toll-free number
In addition to using the website, you can call Social Security toll-free at 1-800-772-1213. All calls are treated confidentially. Specific questions can be answered from 8 am to 7 pm, Monday through Friday. Information is provided by automated phone service 24 hours a day.
Spring into Better Living
Home & Garden Essentials
From comfortable senior living to expert home services and peaceful outdoor spaces, discover local businesses helping you refresh your home and lifestyle this season.
By Melissa Lee
Painting Services Plus LLC
paintingservicesplus.com
5242 Angola Rd #75
419-297-7046
Painting Services Plus is a locally owned painting company serving homeowners and businesses throughout the Toledo area. Known for its experienced team and commitment to craftsmanship, the company focuses on delivering reliable, high-quality results for every project.
Located on Angola Road, Painting Services Plus offers a wide range of services, including interior and exterior painting, cabinet refinishing, power washing, drywall repair and even flooring installation. Their versatility allows them to handle both residential and commercial projects of all sizes.
Open year-round, the company provides flexible scheduling and free estimates, making it easy for customers to plan improvements to their homes or businesses.
Painting Services Plus stands out for its attention to detail, professionalism and strong customer satisfaction. With consistently positive reviews, the company’s goal is to enhance the appearance and value of every property while ensuring a smooth, stress-free experience for clients.
Westgate Residential Suites
3433 Oak Alley Ct 419-535-0727
westgateresidential.com
Westgate Residential Suites is a welcoming apartment community designed for adults aged 55 and older who are seeking an active and independent lifestyle. This community offers a convenient setting near shopping centers, parks and local attractions, making everyday living both easy and enjoyable.
The property features spacious one- and two-bedroom suites equipped with modern amenities, including full kitchens, large balconies, secure building access and fitness facilities. Residents benefit from a maintenance-free lifestyle, allowing them to focus on relaxation, hobbies and social connections rather than home upkeep.
Open year-round, Westgate Residential Suites provides long-term housing in a safe and comfortable environment tailored to senior needs. The community’s purpose is to promote independence while offering convenience and peace of mind. For older adults looking to simplify their living situation without sacrificing quality or comfort, Westgate Residential Suites presents an ideal place to call home.
The Norma Stark Memory Garden and Labyrinth
normastarklabyrinth.org
345 W South Boundary St. 419-351-3268
The Norma Stark Memory Garden and Labyrinth is a serene public garden created for individuals seeking quiet reflection and healing. Designed in memory of Norma Stark’s parents, the space reflects her passion for nature, education and spiritual wellness.
Located in a quiet residential area, the garden features a beautifully landscaped setting with seating areas and walking paths. At its center is a 9-circuit labyrinth inspired by the historic Chartres design in France, offering visitors a unique opportunity for meditation and mindfulness.
Open to the public year-round, the garden welcomes visitors of all ages to walk the labyrinth, enjoy nature and find moments of peace. The garden is to provides a tranquil environment where people can reflect, heal and reconnect with themselves, making it a hidden gem in the Perrysburg community.
Consign-It Home Interiors
Consign-It Home Interiors is a premier destination for high-quality consigned and new furniture.
Whether you’re refreshing your home décor or searching for budget-friendly, unique pieces, the showroom offers a diverse selection of gently used and brand-new furnishings.
In addition to consignment, Consign-It Home Interiors features over 50 vendor spaces with booths of all styles of furniture and home décor. From vintage treasures to modern statement pieces, shoppers can explore an ever-changing inventory. Booth spaces are currently available to rent, to create your own store within ours—an excellent opportunity for artisans, collectors, and small business owners.
Consigning with them is an easy way to turn unwanted furniture into cash while giving items a second life. Shoppers enjoy well-crafted furniture at a fraction of retail prices, all while supporting sustainability. Whether you’re buying, selling, or looking to start your own booth, Consign-It Home Interiors offers stylish, affordable home furnishings.
Mental Health
The Power of Peer Support
Thomas
M. Wernert Center Offers Holistic Approach to Mental Health
By Steve Merangue
Treating mental illness and substance abuse disorder has come a long way since “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest.” For evidence, one only has to look at the Thomas M. Wernert Center.
A peer support center
Located at 208 W. Woodruff Ave., at the cross section between Uptown Toledo and the Old West End, the Wernert Center operates as a day center for those living with mental illness or substance abuse disorder. The Center is not a clinical or medical, but rather uses peer support as its main tool of support.
According to the Wernert Center handbook, “TMWC is certified by the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services as a Peer Run Service. This certification means that as your peers, we know
first-hand the challenges of living with mental illness or substance abuse disorders, and we can help with your recovery and wellness.”
This hands-on, holistic approach to mental health makes the Wernert Center unique in Toledo and Lucas County. To join the Wernert Center, a person must be a Lucas County resident and have a diagnosed mental illness and be receiving mental health services.
Meet Thomas Wernert and Stacey Stubblefield
Wernert Center operates as a day
The Wernert Center is named after the late Thomas M. Wernert, who served as Executive Director of the Lucas County Mental Health Board. During his tenure, Wernert oversaw the creation of mental health centers and drug and alcohol recovery services for Lucas County residents.
HALOTHERAPY
The Center is funded in part by Greater Toledo Community Foundation and Mental Health and Recovery Services Board of Lucas County, as well as through private contributions, fundraising, and grants. Leading the charge on the peer support approach to mental health is the Wernert Center Execu tive Director Stacey Stubblefield. A 26-year veteran employee of the Center, Stubblefield worked her way up from peer supporter to executive director. From a role in the insurance industry she came to the Center initially to supplement her income. However, it became her full time employment when she realized how special the Wernert Center was to the City of Toledo.
Peer-led programs
“The mission statement (of the Wernert Center) captured my attention immediately and I connected with their goals and values,” explains Stubblefield. “My personal motivation comes from knowing that when an individual is valued, understood, and accepted as part of their community, the quality of life goes up for everyone who is a part of that community.”
The Wernert Center offers a variety of peer-led support groups, ranging from Feelings First, which focuses on developing a better understanding of emotions, including anger awareness, grief, and loss, to Dual Recovery Anonymous, which is for those dealing with both mental illness and substance abuse disorders.
Positive effects on mental health
Since its founding in 1993, the Wernert Center has helped thousands of Lucas County residents lead more complete lives.
“A common misconception is that people with mental health diagnosis do not get well and stay well,” said Stubblefield. “Looking back over the past 26 years, I recognize many of our members maintain wellness by managing their temporary setbacks that did not completely derail their lives or independence. The state of mental health recovery does not mean the absence of the disease or diagnosis however the ability to manage not only the symptoms and side effects but to offer the essence of hope.”
For more information on the Thomas M. Wernert Center, visit wernertcenter.org
Stacey Stubblefield, Wernert Center Executive Director, a 26-year veteran employee.
The Center is not a clinical or medical facility, but rather uses peer support as its main tool.
The
center for those living with mental illness or substance abuse disorder.
40+ Training Tailored for You Customize your weightlifting regiment to become stronger
By Bob Baker
The process of aging brings about changes to our bodies over the years. When you were young your body was spongy, springy and supple. You were able to jump out of a tree without a second thought, do summersaults and jump into the air to catch a ball. You could fall down without breaking a bone and run until sunset.
Things are different now. You’re conscious of every step you take and the weight of everything you lift. You bruise and break more easily. A threemile run? Very doubtful. You have scars to prove past injuries and your body shows all of the signs of dealing with a lifetime of hard work and the effects of gravity.
Now that the children are raised you’ve decided to regain lost strength and get back into shape. You can’t do it like you did when you were young without incurring injury. Your tendons and ligaments don’t stretch like they used to. Hard work and
gravity have caused your spinal discs to become much less supple and your muscles won’t respond to stress like they used to. Not to mention that your digestive system doesn’t work as efficiently as in the past making recovery from workouts more taxing and time consuming.
Planning ahead
None of the above should thwart you from getting back into shape. Allowances for nearly every circumstance can be made to make your workout productive. Before you start lifting weights after 40 years old talk to your coach and let him know about any shortcomings you’re dealing with. Can’t lift overhead because of a shoulder injury? There is a workaround. Can’t squat because of sore knees or weak leg muscles? There’s a workaround. Can’t lift 20 pounds from the floor? Lift 10 pounds.
Keeping a watchful eye
The “workarounds” mentioned above are easy problems for a good coach to solve. However, the workout frequency, volume, intensity, rest between sets and rest between days of workouts are another thing entirely and must be closely monitored. In most cases a three day per week workout schedule will work well for anyone over 40 but only for a short time, after which the schedule must be changed to accommodate the demand for recovery. Total exhaustion from a poorly planned workout schedule must be avoided. This is where knowledge of how to safely reach your goal pays off.
I am all for anyone wanting to get stronger and fit after 40 and I train specifically for this class of people. Just be mindful of your age. With age comes limitations. Know what your limitations are and how to deal with them.
Baker
At Wood County Hospital, our orthopedic surgeons combine a patient-centered approach with advanced surgical techniques to help you regain the quality of life you deserve.
• Anterior Hip and Personalized Knee Replacements
• Foot & Ankle Surgery
• VelysTM Robotic Knee Replacement
• Shoulder Replacement, Rotator Cu and Labral Repair
• Ankle Replacement
• Arthroscopic Knee and Shoulder Surgery
• Supervision of Rehabilitation and Return to Sports
• Meniscus and Cartilage Procedures
• Fractures
• Bunion Treatment
• Soft Tissue Injuries
• Orthopaedic Trauma
• Pediatric Evaluations
• Carpal Tunnel
• Evaluation and Treatment of Work Injuries and Sports Injuries for All Ages
Alzheimer’s Association Works To Help Others
Outreach programs and advocacy are key
By Brian Trauring
One in nine seniors age 65 and older live with Alzheimer’s Disease. Those numbers are projected to grow significantly as the population ages. “So, we are all at risk if we have the privilege of living a long life,” says Pam Myers, Senior Director of Programs of the Northwest Ohio Alzheimer’s Association. But progress is being made on many fronts. The Association’s Northwest Ohio chapter covers 24 counties with a “small but mighty staff,” along with volunteers who deliver outreach, events, programs and advocate for those affected by the disease.
“Our mission is to make sure that people have the best care and support on this Alzheimer’s journey. We also want to lead the way in research so
that we can find a cure. And we want to be the best advocate for caregivers and people living with the disease.”
Early diagnosis,
better understanding
Myers began her career as a nurse and uses her background in healthcare to emphasize the importance of early diagnosis when a person exhibits cognitive or memory issues. The symptoms might also signal other issues. “You could be having strokes, mini-strokes, or an infection. You could have some issues with your gut. You could have a hormone imbalance. All those things…have a different course of treatment.”
A professional medical evaluation can distinguish between Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. “There is a treatment available specific for Alzheimer’s disease,” she adds. “What is really cool is the increase in availability of a blood test.” She calls it a game changer as it moves from clinical trials to mainstream availability.
A top priority for the Alzheimer’s Association is to help people better understand the disease. “We provide a lot of educational programs. We also do caregiver support groups. These are places where our caregivers can go to get a break, talk to other people on the journey to learn some strategies and tips.” Nearly all of the 24 counties covered by the local office include support groups. Services are provided free of charge and are funded largely by donations. The Walk to End Alzheimer’s each October is the organization’s largest annual fundraising event.
Many undiagnosed
The Association estimates about half of those with Alzheimer’s Disease, (about seven million Americans) go undiagnosed. The financial burden reaches billions of dollars. So, reducing the risk is urgent. “The focus on brain health includes strategies involving “diet, exercise, cognitive stimulation and making sure we’re on a structured pathway to achieve these goals.”
Research is underway to discover new treatments and medications. “We have two medications that actually treat the underlying causes of Alzheimer’s disease. You have to catch it early. So again…early detection and early diagnosis. You can’t just blow it off anymore and say, you know, Dad’s getting older.” Dementia tends to run in families. Research is taking place to discover the genetic code that may lead to predicting if a person may develop the disease.
To find a doctor, register for a program, volunteer or ask a question, a trained specialist is available through the association’s 24/7 helpline at 800-272-3900 or go to Alz.Org/NWOH.
Pam Myers, Senior Director of Programs of the Northwest Ohio Alzheimer’s Association.
MemoryLane Care Services Launches Care Transitions Program
MemoryLane Care Services introduces the Care Transitions Intervention program to help individuals and families navigate the often-stressful return home after a hospital stay. Designed for people living with dementia or developmental disabilities and their caregivers, the program provides personalized guidance to ensure a safer, smoother recovery at home. Participants are paired with a dedicated Transitions Coach who visits in the hospital and at home, with follow-up phone support to help manage medications, recognize warning symptoms, coordinate follow-up appointments and keep health information organized. For more information or to check eligibility, 419-720-4940 or lyndi@memorylanecareservices.org.
Charter Senior Living of Oak Openings Hosts Monthly Memory Care Conversations
Charter Senior Living of Oak Openings, 6805 Sylvania Ave., hosts memory care conversations on the last Thursday of each month. Through its Flourish℠ Memory Care program, specially trained staff provide personalized support for individuals living with Alzheimer’s or dementia in a safe, structured environment. Families receive education and resources to navigate memory loss together. 5:30-6:30pm. RSVP: receptionist@charteroakopenings.com. 419-670-6940 Charteroakopenings.com
AOoA Releases New Kinship Navigator Resource on Opioid Recovery
Area Office on Aging of Northwestern Ohio (AOoA) has introduced a new Kinship Navigator publication, “Empowering Kinship Families: Resources for Opioid Recovery & Prevention”, designed for families impacted by opioids, offering guidance and support for caregivers and individuals in recovery. Printed copies upon request. Electronic version accessible at AreaOfficeOnAging.com/programs. 419-382-0624. 2155 Arlington Ave.
Main Street Direct
Primary Care Brings
Personalized, Flat-Fee
Medicine to Sylvania
Main Street Direct Primary Care, offers a patient-focused alternative to traditional insurance billing. Founded by family physician Stefan Pomrenke, the clinic follows a direct primary care model with extended 90-minute visits and convenient telehealth access. Patients pay a flat monthly fee of $85 for individuals, $160 for couples and $50 for children, covering preventive care, routine exams and chronic disease management. The practice emphasizes accessible, relationship-based care while helping patients save on visits and medications. 5687 Main St. 419-210-5370 Facebook: @MainstreetclinicDPC-DirectPrimaryCareinSylvania
The brick building at 422 Conant Street in Maumee has had a number of faces over the past years, including a bank and a fondue restaurant. And its latest incarnation, Uptown Pizzeria + Wine Bar is a tasty addition to the tenant list.
Uptown Pizzeria’s owners Shawn and Megan McClellan also own Levis and Lilac’s Whiskey Room, and previously operated the Conant St. location as a fondue restaurant. The couple announced last October that they were switching their format to a different state of melted cheese, from fondue to pizza.
Walking into Uptown Pizzeria’s chic interior, the cool art on the walls is engaging along with the chill of the robust air conditioning. The dining room features large, comfortable chairs and sturdy tables of various sizes, from a cozy table for two, to a large table for five or six diners.
Shaken, not stirred
Our party of five visited Uptown Pizzeria where we were greeted by a friendly server, Sydney, who was a total expert on the selections available, from the craft cocktail menu to the wine list to the various artisan pizzas, salads and starters.
The cocktail menu featured old classics such as the martini (available with stuffed olives), the Sazerac, and an Old-Fashioned, but I was drawn to the specialty drinks, particularly the Lost In Oaxaca, a smoky potion containing mezcal, aperol, lime juice, simple syrup, pineapple juice, egg white, and my all-time favorite spirit, absinthe. The drink both wets your whistle and whets your appetite for the awesome selections on the eclectic food menu.
Ample appetizers
Before ordering from the pizza menu, our party indulged in some of the appetizers, which are not your usual pizzeria fare. Sure, they have such classics as mozzarella sticks and smoked chicken wings, but we were drawn to the duck bacon wontons, savory duck bacon and cream cheese
RUDY’S HOT DOG
filled pockets of goodness, served with a spicy and sweet dipping sauce. The stuffed mushrooms were also engaging, featuring large caps of fungi, packed with Italian sausage, cheese, diced tomatoes and chilies.
We also tried Uptown’s fresh salads, including the Caesar and the beet salad, a delightful mix of sweet, pickled beets tossed with mixed greens, apple slices, red onion and goat cheese, all drizzled with a delicious vinaigrette.
Pizza paradise
Finally, ready for the main event, we settled on our pizza order. And like the Italian flavor from the recent Winter Olympics, these pies did not disappoint.
We sought out the most unusual pizzas on the menu to see how far Uptown Pizzeria could take their culinary art. We ordered the Fiesta Verde, which attracted us with a pesto sauce base and toppings of chorizo, goat cheese, red onion, jalapeño, tomato and fresh arugula. The pie was delightfully spicy and featured
a mixture of flavors that make your taste buds dance. No red pepper flakes required. We also tried the ‘Shroom With A View (despite one member of our groups claimed aversion to cutesy names for food items), another pesto-based pie with large cremini mushrooms, red onion, lots of mozzarella, also topped with arugula. We ordered both these pizzas with thin crust, which was cracker-crispy, and not the least bit soggy (always a potential hazard when going ‘thin’). We also ordered the Spicy SwineApple on Uptown’s traditional Pinsa crust (inspired by flatbread made in ancient Rome), crisp on the outside with a soft center. This take on the classic Hawaiian pizza comes with ham, pineapple, bacon, jalapeños, and feta cheese, all set upon Uptown’s red sauce.
Our party was too full to sample any dessert offerings, which include peanut butter chocolate cake, chocolate torte and Italian lemon cream cake, but there will be a next time for us at Uptown because they offer pizza the way it’s meant to be served.
Uptown Pizzeria features an ample wine list, craft cocktails and artisan pies.
EVENTS
April
APRIL 3
Best of Toledo Awards Party
Kick up your heels at the Best of Toledo Awards Party and celebrate the 2025 winners with a honky-tonk–themed night of fun with food and drinks. Friday, April 3, 6pm. Erie Street Market, 525 Market St. $50 tickets on Eventbrite. Toledocitypaper.com
MONDAY 13
APRIL 7
Mud Hens
Opening Day Party
Step up to the plate for the 2026 Mud Hens Opening Day Party and enjoy food, drinks and fun. Tuesday, April 7, 1–5pm. Polaris Logistics Group, 43 S. Huron St. Free. Tickets on Eventbrite.
The Toledo Zoo Orchid Show
Experience the beauty of more than 2,000 exotic blooms at the Toledo Zoo Orchid Show. Runs through May 3. Included with zoo admission. 10am-4pm. Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way. toledozoo.org
WEDNESDAY 1
[fitness]
Wild Wellness Walkers Begins
Start your day with the Wild Wellness Walkers program at the Toledo Zoo. Enjoy free morning walks along scenic paths as the Zoo prepares for the day. Registration is required. Runs Apr. 1Oct. 31. 730-9am. The Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way. toledozoo.org
[fitness, safety & preparedness]
A Matter of Balance
A Matter of Balance is designed to help older adults reduce their fear of falling, improve strength and balance, and stay active. Wednesdays through May 13. 1130am-130pm. Mercy Health - Senior Wellness Center, 545 Indiana Ave. areaofficeonaging.com FREE
THURSDAY 2
[author events]
Authors! with Nick Petrie
Nick Petrie joins Authors to discuss his latest novel, The Dark Time. Ticketed. $26.38. 7pm. Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St. toledolibrary.org
FRIDAY 3
[poetry, parks & gardens]
#5Poets5Parks
Metroparks Toledo celebrates National Poetry Month by spotlighting five poets who have written poems in honor of five Toledo Metroparks. Registration is required. 5:30pm. Glass City Metropark, 1505 Front St. metroparkstoledo.com. FREE
[civic benefit, visual arts]
Meet Me at the Mural
The dedication of the “Roots of Sylvania” mural during Red Bird First Friday, honoring the city’s Underground Railroad history and celebrating its legacy as a place of refuge as part of the America 250 commemoration. 6pm. Fuller Art House, 5679 Main St., Sylvania
[award nights, parties & reunions]
2026 Best of Toledo Awards Party
Celebrate the city’s top people and places at the annual Best of Toledo Awards Party, honoring the winners who help make Toledo shine. Ticketed. $50. 6pm. Erie Street Market, 201 S. Erie St. toledocitypaper.com
MONDAY 6
[musical, theater]
The Music Man
The classic 1957 musical by Meredith Willson, follows charming con man Harold Hill as he poses as a band organizer in small-town Iowa but begins to change after falling for librarian Marian Paroo. Ticketed. $77-$127. 7:30pm.
Valentine Theatre, 410 Adams St. valentinetheatre.com
TUESDAY 7
[theater, musical]
The Great Gatsby
The Tony Award® winning musical The Great Gatsby, based on the classic novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald, brings the Roaring Twenties to life with a dazzling story of wealth, ambition, and longing. $48-$120. Multiple performances through Sunday, Apr. 12. thestranahan.com
THURSDAY 9
[lunch, talks & lectures]
Tea & Talk Series: Daring Through the Decades - First Ladies as Pioneers of Progress
Join historian Stephanie Bohnak of the National First Ladies Library and Museum exploring how America’s First Ladies have shaped history. Ticketed. $30-$35. 2-4pm. Wood County Museum, 13660 County Home Rd., Bowling Green. woodcountyhistory.org
[talks & lectures]
Libbey Salon Spring Lecture: by Tedd Long
Toledo historian Tedd Long presents Reams vs. Licavoli, the 1934 trial where Prosecutor Frazier Reams took on mob boss Yonnie Licavoli to dismantle Toledo’s crime syndicate. Registration is required. $10. Libbey House, 2008 Scottwood Ave. libbeyhouse.org
SATURDAY 11
[tradeshows & expos]
23rd Annual Sylvania Spring Expo
The 23rd Annual Sylvania Spring Expo brings together local businesses, artisans, and community organizations for a day of shopping, networking, and family-friendly fun. 9am-3pm. Tam-O-Shanter, 7060 W Sylvania Ave, Sylvania. business.sylvaniachamber.org FREE
[fishing, festivals & fairs] Maumee River Fest
The inaugural Maumee River Fest in Uptown Maumee combines family-friendly activities, a fishing tournament, and the Walleye Run 5K. 2-6pm. Uptown Maumee, Conant St., Maumee. maumee.org
TUESDAY 14
[talks & lectures, maritime history]
Spring Lecture Series: The Loss of the Historian Chris Kraska presents The Unfinished Sinking—Exploration, Discovery, and an Unexpected Tragedy, offered in person at the museum or online via Zoom. Registration is required. 7-8:30pm. National Museum of the Great Lakes, 1701 Front St. nmgl. org. FREE
THURSDAY 16
[senior dances]
Senior Prom 2026
Enjoy a lively night out with music, dancing, great food, and plenty of fun. Ticketed. $15-$30. 530-8pm. The Premier, 4480 Heatherdowns Blvd. areaofficeonaging.com
SATURDAY 18
[history]
Mr. Libbey's Birthday Celebration
Celebrate the birthday of Edward Drummond Libbey with an open house at the historic Libbey House in the Old West End,. 11am-3pm. Libbey House, 2008 Scottwood Ave. libbeyhouse.org FREE
SUNDAY 19
[food & drink]
Best Bites Toledo
Celebrate 419 Day at the ultimate foodie tour in Downtown Toledo, sampling small plates and drinks at 12 top local restaurants on a self-guided adventure. Ticketed. $50. 12-4pm. Downtown Toledo. explore419.com
[craft beer, parties]
419 Day Party
Celebrate 419 Day at Maumee Bay Brewing Co. with cold beer, good vibes, and live music from Distant Cousinz in the Warehouse. 2-6pm. Maumee Bay Brewing Co., 27 Broadway St. mbaybrew.com
[social causes]
2026 MLK Our Time To Break Silence: A Call to Action
Join the 9th annual community celebration in Toledo, featuring art, music, spoken word, historical displays, and a mass reading of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Beyond Vietnam: A Time to Break Silence. 3pm. Monroe Street United Methodist Church, 3613 Monroe St. @ Toledo MLK Time to Break Silence FREE
TUESDAY 21
[talks & lectures, history]
America250 Lecture Series: Historic U.S. R.T. 6
Explore the history of U.S. Route 6 as part of the America250 Lecture Series. $7, free for members. 6-730pm. Wood County Museum, 13660 County Home Rd., Bowling Green. woodcountyhistory.org
WEDNESDAY 22
[opera, parks & gardens]
Music in Green Spaces
Enjoy an evening of classical, musical theater, and American standard favorites on the Manor House lawn with Toledo Opera’s 2025-26 Residents. Each Wednesday through May 20. 6-7pm. Wildwood Preserve Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. metroparkstoledo.com FREE
[comedy]
Jeff Dunham Artificial Intelligence Comedian and ventriloquist Jeff Dunham brings his Artificial Intelligence tour to Toledo. $75. Huntington Center, 500 Jef ferson Ave. huntingtoncentertoledo.com
May
MAY 1–3
SUNDAY 26
[fundraisers, musicals]
Musical Theatre BINGO!
Join a Musical Theatre BINGO fundraiser supporting Children's Theatre Workshop, where hit songs from popular musicals are played for players to mark their BINGO cards and win prizes. $4-$50. Ohio Theatre & Events Center, 3112 Lagrange St. ctwtoledo.com
TUESDAY 28
[health & wellness]
Rooted in Wellness Expo 2026
Connect with holistic health experts and explore nutrition, stress relief, and natural therapies at the annual Rooted in Wellness Expo. $75-$85. 9am-430pm. Lourdes University, 6832 Convent Blvd., Sylvania. buchuvida.com
[dance, performing arts]
Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana - Experience the passion of flamenco through Andalusian dance, music, and storytelling. $28-$51. 730pm. Valentine Theatre, 410
Wood County Home Show
Explore home improvement ideas at the Wood County Fairgrounds, 13800 West Poe Rd, Friday–Sunday, May 1–3, 12–4pm daily. Enjoy hands-on demos, expert advice and exclusive offers. Free. 419-352-0441. nationwideexpos.com
MAY 8–9
Night Market in the Garden
Kick off the season at the Night Market in the Garden with live music, food trucks, craft drinks, local artisans and family fun in a beautiful outdoor setting. Friday, May 8, 4–9pm; Saturday, May 9, 3–9pm. Toledo Botanical Garden, 5403 Elmer Dr., Toledo. 419-536-5566. FREE
MAY 15
Don D.C. Curry at Funny Bone Comedy Club
Laugh all night with Don D.C. Curry at Funny Bone Comedy Club, Friday, May 15, 9:30–11:30pm. funnybone.com/ Perrysburg
FRIDAY 1
[history]
Early Ohio on the Portage
Step back in time at this living history event featuring reenactors portraying daily life in early Ohio. 10am-3pm. Also on Saturday, May 2, 10am-5pm and Sunday, May 3, 10am-3pm. Wood County Museum, 13660 County Home Rd., Bowling Green. woodcountyhistory.org FREE
[film]
The Shawshank Redemption
Enjoy The Shawshank Redemption with a special pre-show Ohio-themed beer tasting. 730pm. The Valentine Theater, 410 Adams St. valentinetheatre.com FREE
FRIDAY 8
[birdwatching]
Biggest Week in American Birding 2026 Keynote Speakers
Hear inspiring voices from across the birding world as experts share perspectives through art, science, advocacy, and storytelling. Daily through Saturday, May 16. 4-5pm. Maumee Bay Lodge, 1750 State Park Road #2, Oregon. biggestweekinamericanbirding.com FREE
SATURDAY 9 [tours]
Backstairs and Brunch Tour
Step beyond the front parlors of the historic Wolcott House and explore the hidden spaces where domestic servants lived and worked, followed by a relaxed brunch and conversation. Saturday, May 9, 9–11am. Wolcott Heritage Center, 1031 River Rd. 419893-9602.
[visual arts, wine]
THURSDAY 14
[law]
Advance Care Planning
Learn to complete a living will and designate a healthcare power of attorney at free presentations with a trained facilitator from Hospice of Northwest Ohio. 530pm. Sanger Branch Library, 3030 W. Central Ave. hospicenwo.org, toledolibrary.org FREE
SATURDAY 16
[BBQ, military]
Armed Forces Day "Chill out at the Grill out"
Celebrate 2026 Armed Forces Day at “Chill Out at the Grill Out!”—a public event honoring Active, Guard, and Reserve service members with food, fun, and community spirit. 11am-3pm. Lucas County Veterans Service Commission, 2555 Arlington Ave. lucascountyvets.org. FREE
[parties & reunions, multicultural]
Maifest 2026
Celebrate Spring with authentic German music, dancing, food, and drink. 1-9pm. Oak Shade Grove, 3624 Seaman Rd., Oregon. @ToledoBUV FREE
SUNDAY 17
[Mother’s Day, tea]
Mother’s Day Tea
Celebrate Mother’s Day with a Tea at The Libbey House. Three seatings are available. Ticketed. $40. Libbey House, 2008 Scottwood Ave. libbeyhouse.org
MORE EVENTS ONLINE mlivingnews.com
Swanton Art Walk - Sip and Stroll
Enjoy a relaxed afternoon featuring handmade art, live acoustic music, open DORA beverages, and a chance to meet local artists while celebrating America's 250th. Downtown Swanton, Main St., Swanton. 1-4pm. @benfieldwines
[film, birdwatching]
Biggest Week in American Birding: Official Premiere of Listers
Join Black Swamp Bird Observatory for a special premiere screening of the hit birding documentary Listers, featuring an in-person appearance and Q&A with filmmakers Owen Reiser and Quentin Reiser. Registration is required. 630pm. Maumee Bay Lodge and Conference Center, 1750 State Park Road #2, Oregon. biggestweekinamericanbirding.com FREE
WEDNESDAY 20
[seniors, lunch]
2026 Spring Fling
Join the 2026 Spring Fling at Tam-OShanter with the Area Office on Aging, featuring demonstrations, live entertainment, and optional lunch. Ticketed. 10am-2pm. Sylvania Tam-O-Shanter, 7060 W. Sylvania Ave., Sylvania. areaofficeonaging.com FREE
FRIDAY 22
[concerts]
Alison Krauss and Union Station at Toledo Zoo Amphitheatre
Enjoy an evening of bluegrass with Alison Krauss and Union Station live at the Toledo Zoo Amphitheatre. Ticketed. $70-$320+. 730pm. The Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way. toledozoo.org
MONDAY 25
[Memorial Day, parades]
Memorial Day Parade
Honor the brave men and women who have served at the annual parade in Uptown Maumee. 9am-11am. Conant St., Maumee. FREE
SATURDAY 30
[concerts]
An American in Paris
Celebrate America’s 250th with the Toledo Symphony Orchestra performing Gershwin’s An American in Paris. $15$79. 8pm. Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 Monroe St. liveartstoledo.com
FUN WITH GRAND KIDS
April
SATURDAY 18
May
SATURDAY 9
[concerts]
America @ 250
Celebrate America’s 250th with Toledo Symphony Orchestra chamber music featuring Paul Wiancko and Paul Schoenfield. $15-$40. $7, free for members. 4pm. Toledo Center for Live Arts, 4747 Heatherdowns Blvd.
TUESDAY 19
[talks & lectures]
America250 Lecture Series - Lost Eateries of Toledo
Join Toledo author Tedd Long for Table for None: Lost Toledo Eateries, a nostalgic journey through the city’s vanished restaurants. RSVP requested. $7, free for members. 6-730pm. Wood County Museum, 13660 County Home Rd., Bowling Green. woodcountyhistory.org
MAY 19
[fitness]
Frantic Finish 5K
Run, walk and race the unique Frantic Finish 5K at Nederhouser Community Hall, in Sylvania’s Olander Park. Timegraded with a staggered start, runners of all speeds finish together. Post-race meal and refreshments. Tuesday, May 19, 6pm. TRRC members $12, non-members $18. Register through RunSignup.com.
[baseball, history] The Old Ball Game Step back to 1876 at Providence Metropark and try your hand at One Old Cat, a historic “scrub” baseballstyle game. Registration is required. 11am-1pm. Providence Preserve Metropark, 13200 S. River Rd., Grand Rapids. metroparkstoledo.com
Coppélia is a whimsical ballet following the clever Swanhilda as she uncovers the secret of a life-like doll and outwits the eccentric Dr. Coppelius. $15-$126. 2pm. The Valenting Theatre, 210 Adams St. liveartstoledo.com
[environmental causes] EcoFest
Celebrate sustainability at this free family-friendly festival featuring eco-friendly vendors, hands-on workshops, kids’ activities, live music, upcycled art, and local food. 10am-2pm. Market Hall @ Glass City Metropark, 1521 Front St. lucascountygreen.com FREE
MONDAY 25
[Memorial Day, history] Memorial Day at the Historical Village Celebrate Memorial Day at the Historical Village with live demonstrations, hands-on historical crafts, and a deep dive into Sylvania’s history. 10am-2pm. Sylvania Historical Village, 5717 Main St., Sylvania. heritagesylvania.org FREE
RE QUIeM FAURE
A glittering world of champagne, ambition and heartbreak comes to life as the Tony Award®winning musical The Great Gatsby arrives in Toledo. Experience the romance, decadence and drama of the Jazz Age, based on the classic novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald. $48–$120 Tuesday, April 7, 7:30 pm Friday, April 10, 7:30 pm, Saturday, April 11, 2 pm and Sunday, April 12, 6:30 pm. Stranahan Theater, 4645 Heather-
eyes. Friday, April 24, 8 pm, Saturday, April 25, 8 pm, Saturday, May 2, 8 pm and Sunday, May 3, 3 pm. Collingwood Arts Center, 2413 Collingwood Blvd.
Photos By Christine Seneck
Pies & Pints
Earnest Brew Works hosted “Pies & Pints,” a lively family-friendly fundraiser for Mobile Meals, where guests enjoyed craft beer and slices from Vito’s Pizza for a $10 donation. The event featured 50/50 raffles at both locations, offering a unique, community-focused twist on the traditional after-work happy hour.
SOLUTIONS Sudoku & Crossword
Alison Foreman and Friends
Brian Miller and Adrienne Bradley
Our friendly bartender.
NIck Jenkins (bartender) Ron and Tam Oberhaus
Nathan Nelson and Jennifer Connors
Puzzles on p. 26
Across 1 Taj Mahal city 5 Hors d’oeuvres spread 9 Type of ski lift
Greet the day
Clever thought
Cogito __ sum 17 Low-slung jeans
Semimonthly tide 20 Hit the gas 21 Term of endearment
23 Mega Stuf cookie
25 Helped out
26 1993 film about the Olympic bobsled team from Jamaica
32 “Just Mercy” actor __ Jackson Jr. 33 __ leches cake
34 Quiet “Quiet!”
37 Landed on a perch
38 “The Road Not Taken” poet Robert 40 Clever tactic
41 Brit’s washroom
42 Get ready, for short
43 Within the __ of possibility
44 Magazine with tips and techniques for anglers
47 “I feel the same”
50 Some 30-Down employees: Abbr.
51 Like some sandals
54 Up for discussion
SODUKU
59 N, on a French map
60 New beginning, and a feature of 17-, 26-, and 44-Across
62 Beige hue
63 Mattress specification
64 Dramatic ballroom dance
65 Quaker’s “you”
66 Sail the seven __ 67 Adolescent
Down
1 Spa sounds
2 Subject of a basic golf lesson
3 Like a fragrant melon
4 Wimbledon winner Arthur
5 “Peanuts” character in a cloud of dirt
6 Suffix with lemon and Gator
7 Maryland athlete, for short
8 Reduce, as anxiety
9 Sport for 4-Down
10 Sourdough or rye
11 Best competitive effort, informally
12 Cordoned (off)
14 Pulitzer-winning novelist Welty
18 Hindu spiritual mentor
22 Identifies on social media
24 Pertinent to the discussion
26 Mined fuel
27 Norway home of the Munch Museum
28 Cleveland’s state
29 Allow
30 Tax-collecting org.
31 After expenses
34 Bang shut
35 “Hi, amiga!”
36 Church choir song
38 Cook in a wok
39 NFL official
40 Part of mph
42 Parcel of land
43 Fight against
44 Dish with melted cheese or chocolate
45 Muscle cramps, e.g.
JOKES
“I’m sorry” and “I apologize” can mean the same thing. Except at a funeral.
Went to the doctor with a suspicious-looking mole. He said they all look that way and I should have left him in the garden.
How can you tell the difference between a crocodile and an alligator? Easy, one will see you later, the other will see you in a while.
A man enters a pun contest in his local newspaper. He sends in ten puns, hoping at least one of them would win. Unfortunately, no pun in ten did.
46 Owns, biblically
47 Impressionist painter Claude
48 Noteworthy time period
49 Pied-à-__: secondary residence
52 Trade-__: concessions
53 Cleveland’s lake
55 Sports page datum, for short
56 Of sound mind
57 Encourage
58 School near Windsor Castle
61 Noteworthy time period
What’s the best thing about Switzerland? Well, the flag’s a big plus.
What do you get when you cross a joke with a rhetorical question?
They say smoking kills, but it cures salmon.
The counterfeiters knew the police were onto them but they decided to forge ahead anyway.
It’s hard to beat a boiled egg in the morning.
A friend’s dog managed to swallow a few coins; he’s keeping his eye on it, but says there’s no change yet.
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HEALTH/MEDICAL
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Information Kit with all the details! 1-877-553-1891 www.dental50plus. com/macnet #6258
HEALTH/ MISCELLANEOUS
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Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-833-356-1954
Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-855-465-7624 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.
HOME IMPROVEMENT/ MISCELLANEOUS
No more cleaning out gutters. Guaranteed! LeafFilter is backed by a no-clog guarantee and lifetime transferrable warranty. Call today 1-855-791-1626 to schedule a FREE inspection and no obligation estimate. Get 15% off your entire order. Plus, Military & Seniors get an additional 10% off. Limited time only. Restrictions apply, see representative for warranty and offer details.
HOME IMPROVEMENT/ MISCELLANEOUS
Replace your roof with the best looking and longest lasting material – steel from Erie Metal Roofs! Three styles and multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer – up to 50% off installation + Additional 10% off install (for military, health workers & 1st responders.) Call Erie Metal Roofs: 1-855-338-4807
Jacuzzi Bath Remodel can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as one day. For a limited time, waiving ALL installation costs! (Additional terms apply. Subject to change and vary by dealer. (Offer ends 12/27/26.) Call 1-844-826-2535
