Good morning, Toledo.
A confirmed tornado touched down west of us this week, city leadership is shifting in our neighboring communities, and residents are making their voices heard on development. There's also plenty happening around town if you're looking to get out this weekend.
In today's edition:
-A tornado confirmed in Defiance and what the NWS found
-A data center petition moves forward and new school leadership in Perrysburg
-Weekend events from Broadway musicals to live drumming
Let's get to it.
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News
Tornado Confirmed in Defiance
The National Weather Service confirmed an EF-1 tornado touched down in Defiance on Saturday afternoon, with peak winds hitting 95 mph. The storm traveled just over four miles through town, damaging homes, businesses, and trees along its path. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
The tornado moved from the southwest side through downtown before dissipating near Eagle Rock Golf Course around 2:24 p.m.
Data Center Ban Petition Approved
A grassroots group in Ohio just got the green light to start collecting signatures for a constitutional amendment that would ban large data centers across the state. They've got until July 1 to gather over 400,000 valid signatures, which even skeptical lawmakers admit is a steep climb.
Supporters say the centers drive up electric rates and property taxes while eating into farmland. Industry groups warn it could scare off investment statewide.
Community Spotlight
North Toledo Coalition Steps Up
The North Toledo Coalition has been quietly doing the work that makes neighborhoods feel like home. Last weekend, around 15 volunteers collected 31 bags of trash and five tires, cleaning up the stretch from Galena Street toward downtown.
Director Alfonso Narvaez says it's about more than litter—it's about showing that small actions can spark bigger change and reminding people that Toledo still cares.
City Updates
New Leadership in Perrysburg
Perrysburg Schools has a new superintendent with Michael Acomb is stepping into the role with plans to shape the district's direction. Meanwhile, Sylvania's own Maddox Reitz, just 10 years old, is making waves in front of the camera with a budding film career that's already turning heads.
Featured Event: Get Away With Murder Inc.
Murder Mystery Dinner Party
On April 18 at M’Osteria Bar & Lounge enjoy a buffet meal while you participate in INTERROGATION ROOM the Mystery Game Show presented by Get Away With Murder, Inc. Work together with your team to gather clues and question suspects to discover which contestant is a murderer. All-inclusive ticketing gets dinner and a show. Meal choices: chicken parmesan, pasta pomodoro, meatballs, variety of pizza, salad, and soft drinks. Get your tickets before they are gone!
Events This Week
The Great Gatsby: The Musical
Monday, April 7, 2026
4645 Heatherdowns Blvd, Toledo, OH 43614
Experience the Tony Award-winning Broadway extravaganza that brings F. Scott Fitzgerald's classic tale of extravagance and longing to life with explosive energy and unforgettable music.
Emotional Intelligence Workshop: Level Up Your EQ
Wednesday, April 9, 2026
Toledo, OH (venue details available upon registration)
An interactive full-day workshop packed with insights and practical strategies to enhance your emotional intelligence skills.
Pop Evil: What Remains Tour with Sierra Pilot & Kamenar
Thursday, April 9, 2026
Cla-Zel Theater, Bowling Green, OH
Rock out with Pop Evil on their What Remains Tour, featuring special guests Sierra Pilot and Kemenar—advance tickets $30, $35 day of show. Get details →
Quality Management 1 Day Training
Wednesday, April 9, 2026
Toledo, OH 43604
A comprehensive one-day intensive covering essential quality management principles and practices. Get details →
Authors! with Lindy Ryan
Wednesday, April 9, 2026
Main Library - Toledo Lucas County Public Library, 325 North Michigan Street, Toledo, OH 43604
Join author Lindy Ryan for a discussion of her latest novel, Dollface. Get details →
Dream Factory: Family Circus Spectacular
Friday & Saturday, April 10-11
Collingwood Arts Center, Room C116, Toledo, OH
Experience aerial artistry and circus magic in this all-ages showcase featuring Bird's Eye View Circus students and staff in an intimate studio setting. Get details →
🥁 DrumsBlazin Live Performance
Friday, April 11
130 10th Street, Toledo, OH 43604
Experience an electrifying live drumming showcase featuring dynamic percussion performances. Get details →
ThunderBeard: ZZ Top Tribute Show Friday, April 11
Maumee Indoor Theater, 601 Conant Street, Maumee, OH Experience two hours of ZZ Top's greatest hits performed by the premier tribute band honoring that little ol' band from Texas. Get details →
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