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America 250 keeping area reenactors busy

By
Karen Gerhardinger
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Among the historical reenactors in a camp set up in Parker Square during the 2024 Roche de Boeuf Festival are (from left) Alex Dishaw, Nathan Boerner, Kathy Dowd and Joseph Dowd. This year, reenactors have been busy sharing the stories of America's 250 years. (AWFP photo by Karen Gerhardinger)

With America’s 250th anniversary, reenactors have been busier than ever, sharing the stories of those involved in the founding of this country – and those impacted along the way.

Representing pioneers, Native Americans, generals and soldiers, these reenactors don’t just buy clothing online and show up for an event. For many, these living history presentations are the result of years of continually updating research, assembling attire and accessories, and honing skills in order to accurately portray a person or a culture in a way that’s engaging, educational and respectful. 

The Anthony Wayne Free Press caught up with a few of these reenactors ahead of two local events – the Saturday, July 11 Twilight on the Battlefield and the Tuesday, July 14 for Kids Dig History Day – which will feature living history presentations.

Joel E. Burg 

“This year has been especially rewarding to share information pertaining to our 250th celebration,” said Joel E. Burg, who on July 11 will portray Antoine Lasalle, a French fur trader and member of the Volunteer Companies of Refugees, and fought with the Native Confederacy at the Battle of Fallen Timbers.

Growing up, his family vacations always included visits to historic sites. In the years since, he has participated in encampments, reenactments and historical presentations, representing men from the 1790s to the 1970s Vietnam era.

“Ohio is rich in history, and the Ohio territory played an important role in our national identity, he said. “History matters! We need to know our own, our local and national history to understand current issues and how they may affect the future.”

Taylor Moyer

Taylor Moyer, a member of the Black Swamp Intertribal Foundation, will dress in traditional regalia to share the history of Native people during the Northwest Ohio Indian Wars of 1790-1796 during both events.

“Native Americans do not believe in portraying ancestors,” said Moyer, who instead of focusing on one person, works to reflect the experiences of the Natives living in the Maumee River Valley.

His path to becoming a reenactor or living history representative started in 2003, when as a junior historian with the Henry County Historical Society (HCHS), he dressed for an Ohio bicentennial event.

“I was there with my two friends in the most unauthentic, worst-researched clothing you could have imagined,” he laughed, adding that the HCHS at the time didn’t have any reenactors or historians to guide him.

Michael McMaster, who was with the Wood County Historical Society at the time, was at the event and invited Moyer to come to Fort Meigs for a Memorial Day reenactment. With guidance from McMaster, and then Cherokee John Baer, Moyer gained the knowledge and skills to share the stories of the earliest settlers of the Ohio River Valley.

“John Baer was my mentor, guide and compass when it came to the work I do. I always carried the torch to tell the story,” said Moyer, who said he’s always known his own family’s history, which includes ancestors who took part in the American Revolution and Civil War.

With the 250th anniversary, he and the members of his group have focused more heavily on the Native American participation in the Revolutionary War and the period of the 1790s to 1812. Some are Native Americans and some are not, but all are focused on educating the public.

“We refer to ourselves as a traveling, living history exhibit,” he said. “To do the work right, to go out in the heat in wool clothing and part from family, you’ve got to love it.”

The reasons for getting into reenactments are as varied as the people, he said. Some like to camp, or the culture. Some are museum professionals, educators or fine artisans. Moyer teaches history and senior human cultural studies classes at Toledo School for the Arts, including world religions. Over the years, many of his students have come out to reenact with him; others have gone on to earn master’s degrees in history and work on Native American reservations or in museums.

Like many reenactors, Moyer sees what he does as a lifestyle and a continuation of his passion for history. At home, he’s growing and cultivating crops that date back to the first Native American people: corn, sunflowers, squash and beans. 

“I’m an unwavering advocate for public history. A fierce advocate for the earliest stories of the early Ohio River Valley and the historic sites of Fort Miamis, Fallen Timbers and lesser known sites,” he said. “I have a great emotional connection to these places that’s hard to articulate. “

As he prepares himself for the Twilight on the Battlefield, Moyer knows he’ll think about what a Native Confederation member must have thought and felt as he prepared for the Battle of Fallen Timbers.

“I have twins and a five-year-old, a wife and sisters-in-law. What must it feel like to know I might not come back from this? I try to be incredibly respectful and advocate for all cultures and people,” he said.

Now 37, Moyer said he’s seen audience questions change in the years since that Ohio Bicentennial event. It used to be the questions were simple: What did they eat? What is that bow and arrow made of? What were the tribes? Now many in the audience are well-read, and he might get specific questions about the Northwest Ordinance and how it impacts life today, for example.

When he hears an audience member say, “I learned more today from you than I ever did in history class,” Moyer said he knows he’s made an impact.

Jan Lowe

Jan Lowe portrays Frances Slocum, who was a Quaker living in Pennsylvania when she was taken and adopted by the Lenape, and later the Miami tribe. Slocum chose to remain among the Miami throughout her life. (Courtesy photo)

During the 225th anniversary of the Battle of Fallen Timbers in 2019, Jan Lowe introduced visitors to Frances Slocum (1773-1847), who was taken by the Lenape, or Delaware, when she was five years old. While Slocum wasn’t present at the battle, her story – and way of life – resonates with that time period, Lowe said.

A Quaker, Slocum was living with her family in Wyoming Valley, Penn. when she was taken and adopted by a childless couple. She later joined the Miami tribe and given the name Maconaquah, or “young bear.” She married Shepoconah, a Miami chief, and they had four children, including two daughters who lived to adulthood. Her Quaker family found her in 1838, but Slocum chose to remain in Indiana.

Slocum probably had become too adjusted to life as a Native woman, enjoying much more freedom than other women at the time, Lowe said. Native women owned the tent, had clan mothers, and advised the men on when to plant or go to war, she said.

Lowe credits Jamie K. Oxendine, a member of the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina who previously taught Native American studies at several universities, with giving her insight into the Native ways of gathering, hunting and preparing foods.

As she depicts Slocum, Lowe talks about the foods, the customs and the materials. To make her clothes, Lowe uses natural fibers like cotton, linen or wool, and dyes them with sumac, goldenrod, acorn, walnuts and even elderberries. She makes her own moccasins and leggings, tanning them in a process that includes brain or bark. She’s currently making a pair of moccasins with moose hide.

“I talk about the customs that I’ve learned from different Native people,” she said. “I’m white, but adopted by the Eastern Woodlands people –  the people of the woods.”

Over the years, she’s gone to heritage days, encampments and powwows where she cooks over an open fire and sometimes participates in competitions. In some events, she even shoots a .62-caliber smooth-bore flintlock.

“I love to cook over an open fire. I’ve always loved being out in nature. My dad was a scoutmaster and my mom a Brownie leader, so I like camping, fishing and canoeing,” she said.

In the process, she’s learned a few phrases in the Wyandotte Shawnee language, including how to say “Come here, friend.”

“I love reenacting, because I can share what I love about the Native people,” she said. “And I meet people from all over.”

When she isn’t portraying Slocum, Lowe lives in a similar way – cooking all natural foods in cast iron, growing plants to use for dyes, and spending a lot of time outdoors.

Craig Fisher

Craig Fisher, who portrayed Gen. Anthony Wayne for a History Channel movie in 2000, will return as the general for the July 11 Twilight at the Battlefield event. (AWFP photo by Karen Gerhardinger)

When Craig Fisher was growing up, he knew that his ancestors were among the original settlers in Henry and Wood counties, but he was “fairly clueless” about what happened in the Maumee River Valley. After years of reenacting, including portraying Gen. Anthony Wayne, he’s gained a broad understanding of life in the area before the War of 1812.

Fisher’s first involvement in reenacting was for the 125th anniversary of the Civil War.

“We took great pride in researching what they wore in different regiments,” he said, noting that he and fellow reenactors passed around reproduction photographs of soldiers like they were baseball cards. By looking at photos, letters and other documents, they were able to better understand a soldier’s life as the Civil War progressed.

“They would start out fully equipped and, after marching hundreds of thousands of miles through the South, they would shed that stuff,” he said.

In 1976, Fisher headed to France with a group that toured France as Revolutionary War soldiers returning to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.  This was a way to thank the French, who heavily backed the war financially and spiritually, Fisher said.

In the late 1990s, Fisher was doing an interpretation of Rev. David Zeisberger, a Moravian clergyman ministering to the Lenape in what is now the restored Schoenbrunn site in eastern Ohio, when he was approached by film director Gary Foreman. He wanted Fisher to be Gen. Anthony Wayne in a movie for the History Channel. Fisher agreed, with the caveat that he wanted to do his own research. The show first aired on the History Channel in 2000, and Fisher was later tapped to play the role of George Armistead, the commander of Fort McHenry during a bombardment by the British in 1813, for another History Channel movie.

To portray Wayne, Fisher had an East Coast specialist create a 1790s hat, but the rest of the outfit he made himself, using a machine to sew anything that wasn’t visible and hand-sewing the rest.

“There’s a lot of science behind the hand-stitched garment and buttonholes,” he said, explaining that he sometimes uses 12 to 16 stitches per inch when making or repairing clothing. 

Reenactors not only play the part in dress, but get close to what Fisher considers a form of acting.  It’s forced him to test his limits as well, including riding on horseback.

“I am not a horse rider. You have to have a horse that feels good about having you on top of him, and doesn’t react to an explosion around its ears.”

During a Civil War reenactment, while carrying a sword, Fisher was heading toward the horse at full gallop.

“I pulled the reins and the horse reared up. The audience thought it was great. I was terrified – I didn’t think it was going to stop,” he said.

One of the aspects Fisher loves about reenactments is the opportunity to interact with the audience, as opposed to acting on a stage. As a fine artist who spends a lot of time alone, making etchings and original prints in his studio, being around people is a nice break.

After portraying Wayne this weekend, he’ll also be participating in the 250th program at the Navarre-Anderson Trading Post in Monroe, Mich. In August, he’ll travel to Sturbridge Village in Massachusetts to represent a civilian soldier who was loyal to the British during the American Revolution’s Battle of White Plains. 

On Saturday, July 11, the Fallen Timbers Battlefield Commission will host Twilight on the Battlefield from 6 to 9 p.m. at Fallen Timbers Metropark, 4949 N. Jerome Rd. Participating reenactors include: Taylor Moyer, Abigail Simmerson, Craig Fisher, Xavier Allen, Joel Burg, Jackie Willman, Justin Kaiser and Jan Lowe. Tickets are available at watervillehistory.org.

On Tuesday, July 14 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. the Anthony Wayne Area Arts Commission, Waterville Historical Society and City of Waterville will host a special Eats and Beats Food Truck Tuesday with Kids Dig History activities for the whole family at Conrad Park, 798 Michigan Ave. in Waterville. Participating reenactors include Bill Grimes as John Chapman (Johnny Appleseed), Jim Conrad as Waterville founder John Pray, and Abigail Simmerson and Taylor Moyer as Native people during the Northwest Ohio Indian Wars from 1790-1796. 

Sylvania celebrates 4th by opening time capsule

By
Steven Bieber
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Sylvania Town Crier Mike Lieber reads an opening statement in front of the Gazebo in Burnham Park while Roz Carpenter stands beside him. (TFP photo by Steven Bieber)

SYLVANIA – On July 4, hundreds of current and former residents of Sylvania gathered in Burnham Park for the Bicentennial Homecoming Picnic and Time Capsule Unveiling. Sylvania alumni traveled from as far away as Arizona to attend. Heritage Sylvania spearheaded the event with support from the Sylvania Recreation District, the City of Sylvania, and others. The capsule was originally buried on July 4, 1976.

A reading of the Declaration of Independence in the park’s gazebo preceded the picnic. After the reading, it was time to dig up the capsule. Once it was opened, items such as yearbooks, newspapers, books, and other memorabilia were removed and put on display.

Contents inside the time capsule at the intersection of Maplewood Avenue and Erie Street. (TFP photo by Steven Bieber)

Samantha Ayres, executive director of Heritage Sylvania, talked about the interest in and importance of reflecting on the past.

“It’s fun to see where we’ve been to do that comparison,” she said. “There’s a lot, I think, to learn. Of course, if you were there and you put things in the time capsule, you’ve seen that change in life.”

She emphasized, “You have to know your history or else you repeat it. I say that over and over. You got to learn from our past mistakes and grow from it. It’s very important to know our history.”

Ayres also believes it is important to preserve the stories about Sylvania. She noted that it was one of the first towns to receive a zip code and was the site of the first robbery committed by Charles “Pretty Boy” Floyd.

She said that one of the biggest attractions of the event is the desire to come together. She noted that since the pandemic, some people have been more inclined to stay home, but this gives everyone a chance to gather for a picnic and forget about the world’s current events.

Gayleen Gindy, Ayres’ mother, has written 13 books about Sylvania’s history, including an eight-part series called Sylvania, Lucas County, Ohio: From Footpaths to Expressways and Beyond. She served on the board of Heritage Sylvania for many years before retiring. She now volunteers by managing Sylvania’s archives.

Samantha Ayres hauling contents from the time capsule to Burnham Park. (TFP photo by Steven Bieber)

Gindy attended the bicentennial event 50 years ago when the first time capsule was buried. At the time, she contributed a decorative bicentennial glass that read “1776 to 1976.” This year, she plans to contribute her most recent book, A Sylvania Family’s Tragedy: The Murder of Alta Miller. The book details a murder that took place in 1935, and she wanted future generations to remember it.

“I published it this year, and it’s a murder that was very much forgotten over the years, and it will probably be forgotten again. 50 years from now, they’ll get that book, and people will remember it again.”

The time capsule is located at the intersection of Maplewood Avenue and Erie Street. Gindy said the location was chosen because the property was owned by the city, and organizers wanted a place where people would be able to see the capsule.

She hopes that many of the young people who attended the event will return in 50 years for the next time capsule opening.

Gindy also shared what has changed about Sylvania over the last 50 years.

“Everything has changed. We’ve torn down so many historic buildings. We’ve lost so many things, the historic things in Sylvania, but a lot of new buildings have replaced them.”

Shelia Painter holding her Pocket Prayer Quilts to register for the next time capsule. (TFP photo by Steven Bieber)

One of the attendees was Sheila Painter, a 73-year-old quilter and storyteller who has called Sylvania home since 1975. She said she has made more than 1,100 quilts and has donated almost all of them to charity.

Since a regular-sized quilt is too large for the time capsule, she brought small pocket prayer quilts created by Quilts of Compassion, a nonprofit organization in Toledo that makes disaster-relief and comfort quilts. The pocket quilts have a message attached stressing the importance of the quilting industry and expressing the hope that it will still be thriving 50 years from now.

“Quilting is fabulous, and we need to keep it alive. To cut up fabric and sew it back together into something warm and cuddly. It’s a wonderful thing.”

While the focus of the picnic was opening the time capsule, Sylvania plans to fill it with new items and rebury it. The city plans to refill the capsule sometime this fall and reopen it in 2076.

For those who missed the opening of the time capsule, the contents will be on display at the Cookie Kuhlman House, 5717 Main St., in downtown Sylvania, from July 11 through Sept. 13.

Providence Township seeks data center guidance

By
Karen Gerhardinger
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Providence Township Trustees discussed data center regulations during their July 1 meeting. (AWFP photo by Karen Gerhardinger)

PROVIDENCE TOWNSHIP – After the Lucas County Planning Commission (LCPC) and staff refrained from making a recommendation on Waterville Township’s proposed zoning text amendments for data centers – including the addition of an M-3 zoning classification –  Providence Township is looking at a variety of options, Solicitor David Chamberlain told trustees during their July 1 meeting.

Chamberlain said the plan won’t follow the 67-page proposal that Waterville Township submitted to the LCPC, which serves as a recommending body. 

Lucas County Prosecuting Attorney John Borell and Senior Planner Molly Maguire were among those who recommended that LCPC delay any recommendation on Waterville Township’s proposal, due to several concerns. Both consulted with Chamberlain last week about options for Providence Township.

Borell suggests using a conditional use permit (CUP), which is what is currently in place for both Monclova and Waterville townships.

“Generally, Ohio law does not permit including conditions on requests for zoning changes. A zoning change allows the property owner to use the property for any permitted use in that zoning classification,” Borell explained. “An applicant for a zoning change does not have to propose a specific project as part of the application process. Furthermore, when you look at what is being done in other areas, the conditional use permit is what is being used.

“Based on the above, it was my recommendation that the trustees retain the authority to rezoning property to M-3 and that the campus-type developments be a conditional use within the M-3 classification. The conditional use allows the BZA (Board of Zoning Appeals) to impose any reasonable requirement as a condition of approval.”

Maguire said she agrees with creating an M-3 industrial zoning classification for anything that requires extensive utilities and new infrastructure. The text amendment could include design criteria for M-3 uses that include setbacks, buffers, landscaping, noise limitations and more.

With a zone change, mailed public notices and meetings would be required, along with posted notices on the site. If the zoning is approved, a site plan for new construction would be submitted to the township and sent to the county plan commission – which would have those drawings reviewed by county agencies for comments.

With a Conditional Use Permit, the review is specific for the use and a site plan may or may not be required for the BZA to review. She also pointed out that smaller townships with part-time zoning inspectors and no staff to assist make it a challenge to enforce the conditions in these permits.

Any text amendment – whether to add M-3 zoning or required a CUP – would only apply to the zoned areas of the township. Large portions of Providence Township are un-zoned.

“We have no authority, as far as zoning issues, in the un-zoned area,” Chamberlain confirmed. “There is no zoning to change, so M-3 or any other category does not apply. If a data center decides to go in the un-zoned area – or a junk yard or a truck stop – we have no say in that.”

Maguire confirmed that the un-zoned portion of the township falls under the county health department and county engineer for well, septic and access.

“The un-zoned portion does not have any control or oversight on new uses,” Maguire said.

Chamberlain said that getting the un-zoned area zone is, and always has been, something that trustees have wanted the citizens in those areas to push for, but that he believes that will be “a hard hill to climb.”

Trustees discussed options for what kind of fee to charge an applicant seeking to place a large, campus-style data center or industrial facility in the township. That fee needs to be reasonable and apply to everyone equally – not single out data centers, they agreed.

“If they want to come, then it’s going to come. All we can do is the best we can to protect the township. I wouldn’t go looking for a fight with them,” Chamberlain said of large developers.

Chamberlain said he would continue to work with Maguire to come up with a proposal to bring back to the trustees.

During the meeting, the board also:

-Heard Road Superintendent Kevin Keifer say that he would need to cut back corn that was planted in the right of way at S.R. 295 and Perry Road, as he’s done every year, in order to maintain a proper line of sight.

-Approved a contract with the Ohio Plan for insurance.

-Learned that work on repaving Patton Road will begin after July 13. Trustees agreed to speak with the Lucas County Engineer and Gerken Paving about how to level out a bump in the road where it crosses Yawberg.

-Heard that construction of a roundabout at Providence-Neapolis-Swanton and Archbold-Whitehouse roads will begin later than expected because delays to relocating utilities for roundabouts in Monclova Township have pushed Providence Township’s roundabout utility prep a month behind.

-Heard Keifer say that a sinkhole in front of Whalen’s was fixed. In the process, he discovered a 12-inch tile that is broken. The land owner and township are looking at splitting the cost of the tile work.

-Heard that Keifer got a call from the state fire marshal about the township’s gas pumps being installed without a permit. The county is now involved, and Keifer is waiting to hear back. He had sought bids for having the work redone but has not heard back from the selected bidder.

-Listened to Fire Chief Rick Triggs say that the department is sponsoring two cadets, one who is 17 and the other 19, who would like to ride in a utility vehicle to observe on scenes other than injury accidents. Trustees advised him to work with the insurance agent to see what kind of waivers or restrictions should be put in place.

-Learned that Kendall Communications is looking for property to install a new cell tower within a one-mile radius of Neapolis.

Zane’s Lebanese Grill opening sixth location next year

By
Mark Griffin
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Some of the dishes offered at Zane's Lebanese Grill & Cafe include hummus, baklava, Zataar pita chips, a specialty supreme bowl, and grape leaves. Most of the menu items are made in-house daily. A coffee shop is offered at the Sylvania and Bowling Green locations. (Photo by Mark Griffin)

PERRYSBURG – Starting up and maintaining a small business is difficult.

Approximately 20-22 percent of new small businesses fail within their very first year. Approximately 30-33 percent fail within the second year, and roughly half of all new small businesses have permanently closed their doors within five years.

One local Mediterranean-style family empire seems to be beating the odds.

On June 29, the father/sons team at Zane’s Lebanese Grill signed a lease to open their sixth local location, to be located in Perrysburg.

“We tried to get into Perrysburg the last three years and it never worked out,” said Ali Ismail, 34, co-owner of Zane’s Lebanese Grill and Zane’s Lebanese Grill & Cafe along with his father, Zane Ismail, 67, and brothers Muhamed Ismail, 36, and Jaafer Ismail, 30.

The three brothers are all graduates of Ottawa Hills High School.

Muhamed earned a bachelor’s degree in exercise science from the University of Toledo. Ali earned a bachelor’s degree in exercise science and a master’s degree in public health and epidemiology from UToledo. Jaafer earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Lourdes University.

Zane’s Lebanese Grill & Cafe was started by Zane Ismail and is now primarily run by his three sons, left to right, Ali, Muhamed and Jaafer. All three graduated from Ottawa Hills High School. Zane’s Lebanese Grill & Cafe has locations in Sylvania, Lambertville, Mich., Toledo, Maumee and Bowling Green. A sixth location is scheduled to open in Perrysburg in 2027. (TFP photo by Mark Griffin)

Zane’s Lebanese Grill also has locations in Toledo, Sylvania, Maumee, Bowling Green, and Lambertville, Mich. The Perrysburg location will be located at 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 133, and is scheduled to open in 2027.

Zane, who emigrated to the United States from Lebanon when he was 16, started Sharif’s Restaurant on Monroe Street in 1976 and sold it in 1990. He later opened Pita Sub on Main Street in Sylvania.

Pita Sub relocated to the former Jet’s Pizza at 4900 N. McCord Rd., in Sylvania in 2017. Pita Sub Express, as the Sylvania location was called, was renamed to Zane’s after the family convinced their father to allow them to use his name.

Zane’s Lebanese Grill & Cafe, which opened in Sylvania in 2023, and its sister locations have a build-your-own-roll-or-bowl concept. The business slogan is “roll it or bowl it,” and everything is made from scratch using mostly Zane Ismail’s recipes.

All of the ingredients are made fresh daily.

Items on the menu can be made in a bowl or rolled into a wrap.

The Supreme Bowl, a popular selection on the menu, consists of customers starting with a base of rice, lettuce or hummus and topped with two proteins or double of one protein. Options include chicken, gyro, beef, falafel, beef shawarma, kafta, BBQ chicken or a grilled veggie kabob.

All of the meat is 100 percent zabiha halal. Bowls, including the Original Bowl and Hummus Bowl, can be made gluten free or dairy free.

Zane’s homemade sauces include garlic sauce, cucumber sauce, BBQ sauce, tahini sauce, smoked eggplant hummus, and Lebanese salsa.

All three brothers are big fans of their father, and they appreciate the risks he took opening his restaurants.

“My dad is very intuitive,” Ali said. “Sometimes that guy can tell the future. Taking that and learning from all our past experiences is how we determine our next steps. His input will always be there and will be respected. Us three [sons] have his ways ingrained in us. He knows who he raised.”

Jaafer said, “He is loving, caring and very passionate about everything. He has a willingness to be creative and understated. Putting love in the food and the [dining] experience defines his success.”

Muhamed added the best way he can describe his father is as a “genuine, unique, giving human being.”

Zane’s Lebanese Grill also offers a Zane’s Cafe at its Sylvania and Bowling Green locations. The Cafes feature hot and cold drinks, including espresso, Turkish coffee, organic coffee, lattes and the “very popular” Adani chai, an organic tea with milk, cardamom and spices.

“We made 300 batches of chai before we found the right recipe,” Jaafer said. “Everything we do about making our chai is intentional. Our coffees, we have everything ranging from organic black coffee to peach coffee to pistachio coffee to Dubai chocolate coffee.”

Both Cafe locations are open on Sundays, but the grills are closed – for now. Current Zane’s hours are Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., but the Zane’s team said a plan to open all six locations on Sundays is “in the works.”

“Customers have been asking,” Ali said.

Sweets like baklava, rice pudding, cheesecake, baklava cheesecake, and cookies are some of the items available daily.

Ali said the Zane’s team has always intended its menu to reflect “good health” and offer sizeable portions.

“It’s a lot of food,” Ali said. “You get a lot at a fair price and you get what you pay for. Everything is made from scratch. You can come in here and be very relaxed. We are such a melting pot. People from all groups have reasons to come here.

“People come here for business meetings or for a date or after the gym,” he added. “You can see police officers, people in scrubs … You don’t have to be dressed a certain way, so it’s very convenient.”

Zane’s Lebanese Grill & Cafe also offers catering. Visit Zanesgrill.com to learn more.

Huron Street gets Swanky: Artisan ice cream grand opening

By
Stephen Zenner
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Alissa Vieira, founder of Swanky Scoops, holds her 23-month-old, Gwendolyn Vieira, and celebrates the ribbon cutting to the physical location of Swanky Scoops with her husband, Jay Vieira, and her daughter and son Adelaide and Winston Vieira, (both 9) immediately after the 9-year-olds cut the ribbon during the grand opening for Swanky Scoops at 144 S Huron St. in downtown Toledo on Wednesday, July 1, 2026. (TFP photo by Stephen Zenner)

TOLEDO – Smiles were served during the grand opening of Swanky Scoops artisan ice cream in the warehouse district on last week at 144 S. Huron Street.

“We’ve been coming since they opened [at the Huron Street location], but I figured coming during the grand opening would be good too,” said Dustin Haskins, who enjoyed the frozen treat with his two children. 

Memorial Day weekend was a soft launch for Warehouse District location, but now, a few months on, with i’s dotted and t’s crossed, Swanky Scoops cut the proverbial red-ribbon in front of a crowd of patrons on one of the hottest days of the year. 

Thomas Craley, back end staff at Swanky Scoops, preps ingredients while making ice cream. (TFP photo by Stephen Zenner)

A smooth treat

Owner Alissa Vieira has sold her ice cream that specializes in “unique and unexpected flavors” to Toledoans for almost half a decade. 

“I’ve always loved making ice cream. It’s a fun, creative way to test out different flavor combinations,” Vieira said. “It’s my desert island food, you know. If you could only take one thing with you.”

Wednesday was a milestone, the official celebration for the business’s newest home, near the downtown Toledo’s Farmer’s Market. 

Alissa Vieira, founder of Swanky Scoops. (TFP photo by Stephen Zenner)

Swanky Scoops has been successful selling their distinctive take on the tasty treat with a “French style” recipe, meaning the dessert has a custard base with “egg yolks cooked into the milk and cream.” According to Vieira, this process makes for “…rich and creamy ice cream,” which many people at the opening commented on. 

“Smooth, bubbly, airy, light and fluffy,” is how Karen Hopkinson of Walbridge described the unique texture to the dessert that made it “fantastic.” 

Swanky Scoops has been successful selling their distinctive take on the tasty treat with a “French style” recipe. (TFP photo by Stephen Zenner)

An eight-year-old of few words, Danny LaValley, simply gave a thumbs up to describe the waffle cone he buried his face in. 

And maybe one of Vieira’s biggest supporters, blogger, influencer and content-creator, Shana Lee, who held one side of the ribbon during the opening, had only wonderful things to say about the ice-cream stop.  

“I’ve been supporting them since the first scoop,” Lee said, as she described enjoying Swanky Scoops over many years. “It was so good, it tasted so fresh, it tasted like real ingredients.” 

“They’re making ice cream right now, literally,” she said, emphasizing the freshness, and explained there were employees making ice cream in the back of the store. 

The Toledo Free Press verified two back end employees making ice cream during the grand opening event. 

“We’re the brains behind the operation,” said Diann Harrison, who was mixing an ice cream base.

David Berryman, front end staff for Swanky Scoops, hands ice cream to Andrea Petersen during the grand opening for Swanky Scoops. (TFP photo by Caleb Parrish)

After that “first scoop” Lee said she was impressed with the quality of the ice cream and the quality of the hospitality. Initially Lee and Vieira were strangers, but after one stop into Swanky Scoops, Lee said Vieira remembered her and her mother’s names. 

The ice cream laid the foundation for an organic friendship, “I followed them everywhere,” Lee said. 

Dustin Haskins, Lydia Heidtman, Hunter Haskins, 11, Helena Haskins, 6. “We’ve been coming since they opened, but I figured coming during the grand opening would be good too,” Dustin Haskins said. (TFP photo by Stephen Zenner)

Swanky history

Over the past few years, Swanky Scoops has been “everywhere.”

Around the end of 2019, Vieira started seriously considering opening up her own business. “I purchased commercial ice cream equipment in the beginning of 2020,” Vieira said.  

Initially, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, she began working out of her home in Oregon, Ohio. “I had my ice cream batch freezer set up in my garage.”

Gaby LaValley, with the Toledo City Paper, eats ice cream with her son Danny LaValley, 8. (TFP photo by Stephen Zenner)

By 2021, Swanky Scoops moved into a shared kitchen with the Original Sub Shop and Deli, and began selling prepackaged ice cream by May of 2021. 

Patrons of the Original Sub Shop and Deli could purchase pints or half-pints of Swanky Scoops and had the option between four or five flavors. 

But, Vieira said, “Ice cream is best enjoyed in a dipping cabinet, where it’s tempered to the perfect temperature, and we can scoop and serve it for you.” She admitted that the initial run of pints was just to get her product out in front of people. 

In 2022, Swanky Scoops started showing up at events, with their mobile cart, “so that we could go into farmer’s markets and festivals, and then also private parties for corporate and social events.”

And by 2023, Vieira moved her business to 10th Street, in downtown Toledo, but the size of the location wasn’t big enough for accommodating customers in-store. 

December 2025 is when Vieira signed the lease for the Huron Street location, and in March started a Kickstarter that raised $11,617 towards renovations. 

Caleb, 15, and Ryan Kuhlman, 13, of west Toledo, eye ice cream during the grand opening for Swanky Scoops. (TFP photo by Stephen Zenner)

By May 21, the store was open, and on July 1 the business was celebrating. 

“It’s exciting to have a new location to welcome more people in,” said Jaymes Mull, front end staff, during the grand opening. 

Satisfied customers filled the store that featured a mural by local artist Connor Degnan.

“Our flavors are always rotating, our menu is changing, very frequently, sometimes even every few days,” Vieira said and invited people to check in regularly. 

“Ice cream is best enjoyed in a dipping cabinet, where it’s tempered to the perfect temperature, and we can scoop and serve it for you,” said Swanky Scoops owner Alissa Vieira. (TFP photo by Caleb Parrish)

America 250 celebrations continue in July

By
Karen Gerhardinger
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(Courtesy image)

Independence Day may be over, but the America 250 celebration in the Anthony Wayne area will continue with Twilight on the Battlefield, Kids Dig History and the opening of a Waterville-focused museum at Wakeman Hall.

Twilight on the Battlefield

During the July 11 Twilight on the Battlefield, reenactor Joel Burg will portray Antoine Lasalle, a French fur trader and member of the Volunteer Companies of Refugees, who fought with the Native Confederacy during the Battle of Fallen Timbers.
(Courtesy Photo)

On Saturday, July 11, the Fallen Timbers Battlefield Commission will host Twilight on the Battlefield from 6 to 9 p.m. at Fallen Timbers Metropark, 4949 N. Jerome Rd. Several reenactors portraying the participants in the battle – including the Native Americans, French, Canadians, British, Kentuckians and other Americans – will be situated along a one-mile guided walk.

“This is a chance to meet historical figures and learn how this truly significant battle changed their lives,” said FTBC President Julia Wiley. “You can see how the battle impacted them at the time of the battle in 1794 and after. What a great way to experience the early history of this part of the country and to continue celebrating America 250!”

Children 17 and younger are admitted free with an adult donating $20. Tickets are available at watervillehistory.org.

Taylor Moyer of the Black Swamp Intertribal Foundation will dress in traditional regalia to share the history of Native people during the Northwest Ohio Indian Wars from 1790-1796 during both the Twilight on the Battlefield and the Kids Dig History events. This photo was taken during the 225th anniversary of the battle in 2019. (Courtesy Photo)

Wakeman Hall Museum opens

On Tuesday, July 14, the Wakeman Hall Museum will debut “America 250-Waterville: Stories of our Past, Stories for our Future.”

The exhibit includes:

• Waterville firsts – including Native people, the French, settlers and founder John Pray, as well as the first school, mayor and other milestones. 

• Transportation – from the trails and waterways used by the first inhabitants, to the stagecoach line that was the impetus to founding the Columbian House and other hotels, the display also highlights the canal, railroads and other changes in transportation.

• Works takes a look at early business and industry, including farms like Farnsworth Orchard, which at one time took up a large portion of town.

• Creativity provides a glimpse at some of the many talented individuals to live, work and play in Waterville, like Brian Lonsway, Jim White and many others who have been profiled by the Anthony Wayne Area Arts Commission.

• The exhibit also looks at how Waterville Historical Society has worked alongside younger generations to provide an understanding and appreciation of the past – and how it impacts the future. For decades, Waterville Primary third graders have taken walking tours of the historic downtown, and the high school Student Advisory Council prepares interactive presentations to get younger children interested in history.  

The museum, the Kids Dig History and a monthly speaker series – which will pick back up this fall – are the three main focal points that WHS member Beth Hyder outlined in a grant application to the state. The WHS netted the $5,000 America 250-Ohio grant to cover costs for these and other events related to the semiquincentennial.

The museum will remain open for special events, including the Sept. 19 Roche de Boeuf Festival, as well as regular hours that will be announced at watervillehistory.org.

Kids Dig History/Eats and Beats

The signs and promotional items are ready for the Tuesday, July 14 Kids Dig History celebration, which takes part in conjunction with the Eats and Beats Food Truck Tuesday on July 14 at Conrad Park from 5:30 to 8 p.m. (AWFP photo by Karen Gerhardinger)

On Tuesday, July 14 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. the Anthony Wayne Area Arts Commission, Waterville Historical Society and City of Waterville will host a special Eats and Beats Food Truck Tuesday with Kids Dig History activities for the whole family at Conrad Park, 798 Michigan Ave. in Waterville.

Some of the free Kids Dig History activities include:

• A limestone fossil dig. Look for signs of life long ago embedded into the limestone. The event is hosted by the city, Boy Scout Troop 101 and Dr. Barry Argentine. 

• Learn ropemaking with Jeff Buehrer of Fulton County Historical Society.

• Try tin punching with WHS member Bob Chapman. 

• Fallen Timbers Battlefield Commission will have displays, activities and free pins.

• Pick up a unique America 250 flag and participate in crafts sponsored by Mary Billmaier, regent for the Fort Industry Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution. 

• Free America 250-Waterville and Waterville Historical Society memorabilia will be available for kids, including hats, stickers and drawstring bags.

• Waterville Playshop will have a photo booth set up for fun family photos with lots of props.

• Visit miniature horses and dogs with Anne Foltz of Paws and Hooves. 

• Enjoy a pajama storytime inside the Waterville Library with Manager Will Harbauer.

Several reenactors will also be on site. Bill Grimes will portray John Chapman (Johnny Appleseed); Jim Conrad will share perspectives from Waterville founder John Pray; and Abigail Simmerson and Taylor Moyer of the Black Swamp Intertribal Foundation will dress in traditional regalia to share the history of Native people during the Northwest Ohio Indian Wars from 1790-1796. 

Hit & Run will perform during the July 14 Eats and Beats Food Truck Tuesday event at Conrad Park, beginning at 5:30 p.m.
(Courtesy Photo)

The band Hit & Run will perform on the gazebo stage.

Nearby, 10 food trucks will be open for business:

Big Mealz on Wheelz

Deet’s BBQ

Detroit Mini Donuts

Koral Hamburg

Los Pollo Loco

Saucy Slamwich

Snowie Summers

Susie Lynne’s Lemonade

Uncle Louie’s

Several nonprofit organizations and artisan vendors will be set up around the park, including:

Anthony Wayne Nutrition

Cookie General

Crunchy Mama

Donleyn Meyers

Forever Flower Bouquet Bar

Jason Sheskey

Jen Schneider

Joan Hetzner

Judy Kossow

Kathy Eis-Heenan

Kelsey Surface

Keith Neubert

Linda Myers

Linda Stewart

Pour Soul Art

Rachel Clark

Sausy Bites

Sweets by Kelsey

Valerie Hunsaker

Vicki Knauerhase

Waterville Sweets

Waterville United Methodist Church

Bring a lawn chair or a blanket to enjoy the music, arts, activities, food and community!

Promed Pharmacy opening in Whitehouse

By
Karen Gerhardinger
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Standing inside the new Promed Pharmacy in Whitehouse are Manager Chad Elassadi and Pharmacist Tas Elassadi. The independent pharmacy opened on Monday, July 6 at 9 a.m. (AWFP photo by Karen Gerhardinger)

WHITEHOUSE – For the first time in more than a decade, Whitehouse has its own pharmacy.

On Monday, July 6, Promed Pharmacy opened at 6729 Providence St.

“We heard that people missed the family pharmacy atmosphere and services, where you’re not just a number,” said Promed Manager Chad Elassadi. “This is a great opportunity to serve this awesome community with their pharmaceutical needs.”

Mayor Richard Bingham said that he, village council and the administrative team are pleased to welcome Promed to town, especially since residents have voiced that need in annual surveys.

“After the closing of Rite Aid in Waterville, many residents expressed the need for additional local pharmacy options – and we have been working hard to make that request a reality,” said Bingham. “Promed’s arrival provides greater convenience and access to essential services for our community, and we’re excited to have them serving our citizens.”

For years, Whitehouse residents have asked for a pharmacy. On Monday, July 6, Promed Pharmacy will open in the downtown, at 6729 Providence St. (AWFP photo by Karen Gerhardinger)

When Chad learned of the opportunity to bring a pharmacy to a community without one, he didn’t have to look far for help, as his wife, Tas Elassadi, is a licensed pharmacist.

“I have working experience in retail management, and I know what a high level of service the customer deserves. She has retail pharmacy experience and knowledge. So we thought we would be a perfect fit for the Whitehouse community,” he said. 

Tas brings over a decade of experience in retail pharmacies, including Rite Aid and Walgreens, and previously worked as a technician and intern while earning a degree in pharmacy administration and doctorate of pharmacy from the University of Toledo. 

“Since I can remember in my younger days, I worked in jobs that focused on helping people and creating the best customer experience. As I continued to grow older, my passion for science grew as well. I thought I would combine my passion for helping people with my passion for science, as a pharmacist,” she said.  

Through her prior experience, Tas found that often – especially in chain drug stores and grocery store pharmacies – the pharmacists are too busy to help customers on a one-on-one basis. The technicians try to help, but that often means waiting until the pharmacist has a break, so customers don’t always get their questions answered in a timely manner.

As the second line after the doctor, a pharmacist can answer questions about drug interactions or symptoms, prevent doubling up on medications, and offer alternatives for the doctor to consider that might be a better fit. One patient she found was taking two different doses of the same medication with prescriptions from a family doctor and a heart specialist. 

“We’re double- and triple-checking. We’re asking about patient allergies, what they are taking and whether their list is up-to-date. We don’t hesitate to talk to the doctor to make sure we have everything correct,” she added.

Promed takes its motto of “Prescriptions Made Personal” to heart, Chad said.

“You’re not just a number. We want to know you by your first name,” he said. “We understand what makes a patient dissatisfied with a pharmacy: long lines or waiting two days for an answer to a question that might be urgent. We treat you the way you want to be treated. We want to go the extra mile.”

That extra mile means alerting customers of upcoming refills, checking with the doctor and working with insurance companies. Promed offers free delivery to customers, which is especially helpful for the elderly. And, for those who take multiple medications, Tas can create monthly blister packs – also free of charge – to ensure that the patients and their caregivers are not missing or doubling up on medications.

Because Promed is an independent pharmacy, Tas has access to multiple suppliers to find medications on short notice. Big box pharmacies typically use one supplier, and that can limit availability. 

The top 400 common medications are in stock, such as those for diabetes, heart issues or blood pressure, as well as antibiotic. Others can be ordered and ready for pickup or delivery the following day.

In addition to providing prescriptions, Promed has a small section of over-the-counter medications and first aid supplies, and will offer flu, pneumonia and shingles shots on a walk-in basis or by appointment online or over the phone. The pharmacy also provides walk-in health and wellness checks, including blood pressure and sugar level testing, and consultations on weight loss and diabetes.

Promed accepts nearly all insurance plans. Signing up to have prescriptions filled is easy: just provide name, birthdate and the name of the current pharmacy where medications can be filled. Tas encourages potential customers to stop in to “get to know us” before making a switch. 

The pharmacy currently has hours of 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays, but that could expand based on customer demand. In the coming weeks, the Elassadis plan to hold a grand opening event. But in the meantime, they’ve been getting to know the village by attending the Cherry Fest and dining at area restaurants.

“Everyone here has been so welcoming. We want to work with people to be part of a great community,” Chad said.

For information, visit promeddiscountpharmacy.com, email [email protected] or call 419-764-5312.

Bodyguard musical to launch in Toledo

By
David Yonke
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0
(Courtesy image)

Cast and crew to spend two weeks in Glass City preparing for national tour

TOLEDO – The cast and crew of the hit musical The Bodyguard will gather in Toledo a few weeks before the show opens Oct. 15 at the Stranahan Theatre, getting everything ready for the launch of its North American tour.

“We were lucky enough to have the time available at the Stranahan to make that happen for the cast as well as the production people, the stage and sound crew, everybody involved in the show,” said Craig Aikman, Senior Director of Presenting Operations for the American Theatre Guild, based in Kansas City, Mo.

“They are going to bring the show in, load and unload it, and get all that practiced. Just as much as you may expect the stage version to be choreographed, the backstage is just as choreographed,” Aikman said,

“In some ways the backstage is probably more important sometimes, to make sure that everything is moving and shifting the way that it’s supposed to,” he said.

The Bodyguard will be the first show of the 2026-27 Broadway in Toledo season, running Oct. 15-18 and marking the Toledo premiere of the smash-hit musical based on the 1992 movie that starred Whitney Houston and Kevin Costner.

The season will continue in 2027 with The Book of Mormon, Feb. 18-21; Jersey Boys, March 4-7; Mamma Mia!, April 27-May 2; and The Outsiders, July 13-18.

The Book of Mormon
Mamma Mia!

“Broadway in Toledo is a treasured part of our community,” said Caleigh Heuring, Director of Marketing & Destination Engagement for Destination Toledo. “Being able to offer Tony Award-winning shows right here in the Glass City adds so much to our arts and culture scene and enhances the visitor experience. 

“People come to our destination specifically for this, and with upgrades like the new seats at The Stranahan and an exciting lineup of new and beloved classics this season, it further cements Toledo’s place as a destination for the arts,” Heuring said.

In addition to the Hollywood star power of Houston and Costner, The Bodyguard movie is renowned for its musical numbers. It was nominated in 1993 for two “Best Original Song” Oscars – for “I Have Nothing” and “Run to You.”

The soundtrack won American Music Awards for Favorite Pop/Rock Album, Favorite Soul/R&B album, and Favorite Contemporary Album, and three Grammy Awards, including Best Pop Vocal Award for Houston’s classic “I Will Always Love You.”

Aikman said the stage show follows the movie plot closely, but live performances are vastly different from watching a movie because there is a give-and-take between audience and actors.

“The stage show will give audiences a completely different experience than on screen because the audience is an integral part of what’s happening on stage,” Aikman said.

When watching a movie, an audience is “just sitting in a darkened theater or sitting in their living room and watching something on a screen,” he said. “In a stage show, the actors can feel the energy coming from the audience and feel their level of appreciation.”

Aikman said every show is unique – even the same show performed on different nights.

“There are going to be changes. If anybody wants to test that theory, just buy tickets to every single show – which we would love – and every show during the run, just take a look at what’s different because there are always going to be some changes that happen on the fly,” he said.

“Sometimes things kind of go off the rails just a little bit where the cast has to kind of pick things up. That’s live theater. There’s always a certain level of excitement and that’s part of the love of theater. You know it’s live and it’s right there in front of you.”

Aikman said his role as senior director of presenting operations involves working with the Theatre Guild’s programming and production teams “to kind of make sure that everything is moving the way it’s supposed to.”

He described himself as “a frustrated actor” with a lifelong love of live theater. “I still do it from time to time, to keep my head in the game. I’m very lucky to be able to do it as a hobby.”

The American Theatre Guild presents stage shows in 11 cities including Toledo. Choosing which shows to bring to each market is a complex puzzle that depends on booking agents, Broadway producers and the results of audience surveys.

“We take a look, we dump all of those pieces down on the table, and we try to fit it all together so that it makes sense,” Aikman said.

Each year around the time of the Tony Awards, which this year were held June 7, the American Theatre Guild conducts a survey to see which shows the fans in each market want to see.

“Anybody that’s purchased a show at the Stranahan will get that survey and they’ll have the opportunity to give us their opinion. We do look at that and pay attention to it and we try to bring the shows that everybody wants to see,” Aikman said.

He said the American Theatre Guild is the largest not-for-profit presenter for Broadway shows, which gives it enough clout to make national tours viable.

According to GuideStar, which tracks nonprofit organizations’ finances nationwide, the American Theatre Guild has annual revenue of more than $32 million and its mission is to provide “the experience of live theatre to foster passion, inspire creativity and empower youth within our communities.”

Aikman said he has been to Toledo numerous times with the theatre guild and is confident that the cast and crew of The Bodyguard will have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the area.

“I’ve been with our organization for nearly 20 years and I’ve spent a lot of time in Toledo and just loving the Glass City. Without a doubt the cast and crew of The Bodyguard will have no shortage of things to do.”

Heuring of Destination Toledo said she is excited about the new Broadway in Toledo season and the fact that it “gives the cast and crew a chance to experience everything our city has to offer.”

Yemeni coffee shop opening near UToledo

By
Steven Bieber
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Caffeena Coffee House is a Dearborn-based chain that is expanding to Toledo in the coming months. (Courtesy photo)

TOLEDO – Caffeena Coffee House is a Dearborn-based café that is expanding to the Glass City. Guests will have the opportunity to try authentic Yemeni coffee and enjoy fresh pastries at the several new locations that the company will be opening in the coming months. The Toledo location will be at 2903 Dorr St., near the University of Toledo campus.

Simon Saleh, managing director of Caffeena Coffee House and a real estate broker, came to the United States from Yemen when he was 11 years old. He got started in the coffee business by helping others open shops across the country. Now, he finally gets to open his own.

While coffee enthusiasts sometimes run into the same old concepts, Saleh says Caffeena will offer something different.

Simon Saleh, managing director of Caffeena Coffee House, came to the United States from Yemen when he was 11 years old. (Courtesy photo)

“What we do is in all of our coffee shops, we try to make sure that they look very presentable in a luxurious experience,” he said. “We put a lot of high-end stuff inside the coffee shop, such as nice finishes, tiles, marbles. When you walk in there, it’s going to look really nice.”

Depending on the square footage, the shops will feature conference rooms and meditation rooms that will be available for anyone to use for meditation, prayer, or private reflection.

Another way Caffeena seeks to differentiate itself from other coffee shops is through its focus on community needs. This means they’ll be partnering with nonprofit organizations.

The third, and possibly most important, difference between Caffeena and chain coffee shops is the coffee itself. Saleh says the coffee beans are grown in Yemen and sent directly to Caffeena. The coffee may be stronger than others because the beans are harvested by hand, sun-dried in the mountains, and not power-washed. When the beans arrive at a shop, the only step is to remove the leaves from the top of the beans, keeping them natural.

A brief history of Yemeni coffee

The word “mocha” comes from the port city of Mocha in Yemen. It is located on the Red Sea coast and has been known for centuries for its coffee trade. According to Saleh, Yemen began exporting coffee in the early 1700s. He said it has traditionally been transported from Yemen to the Middle East, then to Europe, before finally reaching the United States. It was not well known in the U.S. until Yemeni coffee shops began to open.

While the shop is located near the University of Toledo, Saleh says everyone is welcome.

“Our coffee shop is open for everyone, no matter what you want. Our audience [is] going to be the community.”

One thing that helps the company run smoothly is that Caffeena is an all-in-one business. The coffee shop has its own wholesale company to provide supplies and training for each new location.

Saleh can open so many locations at once because of the people he has partnered with.

“Once I became part of Caffeena, and we brought the whole team together. One of the first things that I did is I found people who had the same vision, who had the same mindsets, and wanted to do the same basic goal.”

That goal, he said, is to provide a unique coffee experience for customers. His team consists of friends, family, and colleagues. He said his brother-in-law is in Toledo and will manage the location.

The Toledo location is expected to open within the next couple of months. Check in on their website to check in on the grand opening, and to learn more about what they serve.

Wild Side: Tiger swallowtails

By
Art Weber
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A tiger swallowtail new hatch eating an egg for chitinous protein. (Photo by Metroparks Toledo nature photographer Art Weber)

It’s time for the next generation of swallowtails to get started.

Tiger swallowtails, for example, are hatching from eggs laid on leaves of the tulip trees and black cherries that the larva will rely on for food. But before eating leaves – and they do not eat enough leaves to harm the trees – their first food is the egg case they hatched from, consuming it for the chitinous protein that insects rely on for both flexibility and stiffness. 

The fascinating process that takes them from the egg to the adult butterfly progresses through five instars over a period of about 40 days. During the first three instars they have the appearance of a bird dropping. For later instars before forming a chrysalis, the caterpillars take on a bright green appearance with two markings that appear to be eyes, thought to make would-be predators mistake them for snakes.  

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