After 26 incredible years, it is with both gratitude and a touch of sadness that I share the news that Lifestyles2000 will be publishing its final issue. What began in 1999 as a simple idea—asking a few trusted advertisers to support a small local paper—grew into a publication that became a part of so many lives, including my own. Along the way, I have been blessed with devoted writers, loyal advertisers, and above all, readers whose encouragement made every issue possible.
 

It was 1999, I was working in Toledo for the City Paper as their sales manager and hated the drive and the job. It occurred to me that I had many past customers from selling billboards for years, why not ask them if they would advertise in a local monthly free paper. I did, and Lifestyles2000 began in May of 1999.
 

I am so grateful for the many writers over the years, especially Ms. Grace Sidell that graced the pages until she passed in 2022. She had so many followers she wrote a book including her many columns.
 

There was also Travels with Bubba and Bonnie, the first food critic who never hated a meal. Al passed at the age of 60 in 2011.

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Helen Marketti for her series on rock music for 17 years; Nan Card and her wonderful columns about local history; Bob Morton and the columns that never fail to bring a smile to my face; Dr. Silcox and his health columns; Lynn Urban and her visits to try local cuisine; Robin and Gena and their wildlife adventures; Alisa Florio and her positive living, and on and on.
 

Then there is Find Pete, the ever-successful game that became a mainstay in June 1999! Pete passed in November of 2023. I recall doing a Home Show in the early years when the women lined up for him to sign their magazine copy!

Thank you to the advertisers who stayed with me over the years. I appreciate each one of you for making this possible. Also, to Martha, my fabulous graphic designer.
 

This magazine has been the best job of my life, and I never considered it work. Hearing people say how much they enjoyed it never got old.
 

Thank you all, and especially our readers, many who have passed in the past twenty-six years, it has been a fantastic journey! Please continue to use the website to catch up with past issues; it will remain through December.
 

God bless,

Joanne