419 DAY

Social media abuzz with love for Toledo

Tweets, photos boast local flavors

In a contest seeking the best mustache in the region (#419mustache), several fine fellows were nominated, but one was a cut above: Toledo’s own Dustin Hostetler.

People sure do love northwest Ohio.

From near and far, and sometimes very far, people broadcasted their love for the 419 region on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook all day Friday — 4/19.

The Blade’s animal rights reporter, Tanya Irwin, who was on assignment in London, even participated by emailing a photo of a sign that read, “I [heart] the 419!”

The positivity flowing through all of the online social networks was infectious.

There were hundreds of Tweets tagged with #419day that showed locals visiting their favorite eateries — Plate 21, Black Kite Coffee and Pies, Balance Pan Asian Grille, Ranya’s, and Tony Packo’s, to name just a few.

Some other Tweets weren’t so local — most non-Toledo tweets were from around the state, a few from other parts of the country. One from Tokyo.

There is so much love for Toledo. More than 100 photos were uploaded to Instagram — Toledo skylines, more food, and landmarks such as the Toledo Museum of Art.

A few pictures were a little more hairy. In a contest seeking the best mustache in the region (#419mustache), several fine fellows were nominated, but one was a cut above: Toledo’s own Dustin Hostetler.

“On behalf of all the mustached dudes in Toledo, I say thank you,” said Mr. Hostetler, 35, the man with the unofficial best mustache in all of the 419. “This is quite possibly the greatest honor I have ever received.”

But why stop while we’re ahead?

Even though 419 Day happens only once a year, our love remains. Keep visiting local businesses and establishments. Keep Tweeting and Instagramming your 419 pride; tag it #419love.

Next year, April 19 falls on a Saturday, and we’re already excited.

Contact Taylor Dungjen at: tdungjen@theblade.com or 419-724-6054.