Monday, October 26

Playmakers: The Jewish Entrepreneurs who Created the Toy Industry in America

By Michael Kimmel

12 p.m.

Sylvania-area location TBA

$18 per person, includes author presentation, kosher lunch, and refreshments

$36 per person, includes author presentation, book, kosher lunch, and refreshments

Join us for a fascinating presentation with Michael Kimmel and discover the remarkable stories behind iconic toys and brands such as the teddy bear, Barbie, G.I. Joe, Mr. Potato Head, Lionel Trains, Hasbro, and Mattel, and learn how a generation of Jewish immigrants helped shape the American childhood experience. Drawing from his own family’s connection to the Ideal Toy Corporation, Kimmel brings to life the entrepreneurial spirit, creativity, and determination of the Jewish toymakers whose innovations transformed the toy industry and popular culture. Don’t miss this engaging opportunity to explore a unique chapter of American and Jewish history.

Michael Kimmel is SUNY Distinguished Professor of Sociology and Gender Studies Emeritus at Stony Brook University. He is the author of many books, including Angry White Men, Manhood in America, Healing from Hate, and the best-seller Guyland. He is the great grandnephew of Morris Michtom, creator of the teddy bear and founder of Ideal Toy Company. He lives in Brooklyn.

RSVP by Monday, October 19.

Saturday, November 7

Wiseguys, Rabbis, and the FBI: How One Man Became the Biggest Loanshark in New York City, Went to Prison, and Escaped

By J.A. Schwartzman

6 p.m.

Location TBD

$25 per person, includes author presentation, dinner, and refreshments

$40 per person, includes book, author presentation, dinner, and refreshments

Step into the world of mobsters, money, and mystery for an unforgettable evening. Enjoy dinner and hear directly from author J.A. Schwartzman as she shares the remarkable true story of Mel Cooper, a New York loanshark whose operation became entangled with organized crime and ultimately led to a landmark prosecution by U.S. Attorney Rudolph Giuliani. Drawing on interviews, trial transcripts, and firsthand accounts, Schwartzman brings to life a cast of colorful characters, high-stakes courtroom drama, and the surprising question at the heart of the case: who was really backing the loans?

Come hungry for dinner and ready for a fascinating journey into New York’s underworld, where the lines between wiseguys, rabbis, and the law were anything but clear.

J.A. Schwartzman is a copywriter and author from New York City. Her work has appeared in publications including Mademoiselle Magazine, Barbara Probst Solomon’s The Reading Room, the New York Press, and others. Her writing and editing have included non-fiction books, articles for trade and commercial publications, and a screenplay.

RSVP by Monday, November 2.

Thursday, November 12

Because of a Dog: How an Enchanted Italian Village Mended a Broken Heart

By Matthew Sigman **TOLEDO NATIVE**

7 p.m.

Sylvania-area location TBA

$18 per person, includes author presentation, heavy appetizers, and refreshments

$36 per person, includes book, author presentation, heavy appetizers, and refreshments

Ciao! Join us for an Italian-inspired evening and delightful conversation with Toledo native and author Matthew Sigman. Sip Italian-themed cocktails, enjoy savory appetizers, and be transported to the charming villages of Italy as Matthew shares the story behind his heartwarming memoir.

Filled with humor, adventure, and unexpected friendship, Because of a Dog follows Matthew’s journey to a remote Italian mountain village after the loss of his beloved dog. What begins as an impulsive escape becomes a life-changing experience, as he discovers the warmth of a welcoming community, the joy of new connections, and the healing power of embracing life's surprises.

Matthew Sigman is a prize-winning journalist who explores the creative process of composers, performers, artists, directors, and behind-the-scenes professionals in the performing arts. A three-time recipient of the ASCAP-Deems Taylor Award, he has served as editor-in-chief of Symphony and Opera America magazines, and has contributed features, interviews, criticism, and commentary to Opera News, American Theatre, Chorus America, Classical Music, and NPR's Performance Today. An avid traveler, a serious amateur chef, and a ferocious Scrabbler, he lives in New York City's West Village.

RSVP by Friday, November 6.

***NEW DATE***

Sunday, November 15

William Greenberg Desserts Bakes Vegan:

Plant-Based Recipes from an Iconic New York Bakery

By Carol Becker

2 p.m.

Sylvania/Toledo-area location TBA

$18 per person, includes author presentation, desserts, and refreshments

$36 per person, includes author presentation, book, desserts, and refreshments

Join us for a delicious afternoon with cookbook author and William Greenberg Desserts owner, Carol Becker. Sample delectable treats from her cookbook while Carol shares the stories, traditions, and sweet inspirations behind her recipes. Whether you love baking, enjoy Jewish food traditions, or simply have a sweet tooth, this is a flavorful event you won’t want to miss!

Carol Becker is the owner of the iconic William Greenberg Desserts, the beloved New York bakery she acquired in 2008 and transformed into a nationally recognized brand while preserving its kosher traditions and classic recipes. An entrepreneur, philanthropist, and cookbook author, Becker is also a leader in numerous Jewish and civic organizations, combining business success with a lifelong commitment to community service.

RSVP by Monday, October 19.