Top Shelf, a chain of Ohio Liquor stores, has opened a new location at 3303 Dorr St., in the building that used to house Campus Pollyeyes. The restaurant closed its doors in March and Top Shelf opened Aug. 23.
Ohio Liquor (OHLQ) is a unique public/private partnership that works to ensure “the safe and fair distribution of high-proof liquor” across the state. It funnels profits from the sale of liquor to economic development initiatives in Ohio, according to the OHLQ.
One of the store’s closest neighbors is the University of Toledo Public Safety Center, right across the road. UT’s top cop, Chief of Police Rod Theis, doesn’t expect any issues with the new business on the edge of campus.
“I do not feel it will create any type of issue for the campus or campus community,” Chief Theis said. “I typically do not comment on businesses or property not associated with the university.”
The chief ’s assessment was shared by at least one UToledo professor.
“I don’t think it’s going to have a big difference,” said Dwight Haase, a sociology professor on campus. “My understanding is that with younger generations, they’re consuming less alcohol and more of other substances.
“If people are accessing alcohol, they’re already doing it anyway,” he added.
Reaction from students was philosophical.
Eighteen-year-old film and video major Natalia Wilson has not visited the store, and quipped “I just know it’s there – like heaven.”
Cam Taraszka, a 21-year-old marketing major, didn’t think the proximity of the liquor store would have any impact on campus culture.
“Truthfully, no. I think it’s inevitable that college kids are going to be drinking,” they said. “If people want alcohol, they’re going to get alcohol.
The OHLQ operates under the auspices of the Ohio Department of Commerce, and “advocating for responsible consumption is always [their] top priority.” Top Shelf has state oversight and provides several support resources on their website for those struggling with substance abuse at ohlq.com.
