Good morning, Toledo.
A minor earthquake reminded us we're not immune to surprises, a weekend festival is bringing downtown to life, and one of our parks just earned national recognition. The Dispatch is here to keep you connected to what's happening in the city and why it matters.
In today's edition:
-A 2.9 magnitude earthquake that shook the area this week
-The Pickle Festival taking over downtown this Saturday
-Pearson Metropark's new national designation
Let's get to it.
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News
Earthquake Felt in Toledo
A 2.9 magnitude earthquake near Amherstburg, Ontario rattled parts of eastern Lucas County late Sunday morning. Some residents reported feeling a brief rumble around 10:30 a.m., though the quake caused no damage locally.
The tremor was more noticeable across the border in Monroe and Wayne counties, where people even heard a loud bang. Michigan Tech notes earthquakes in this range are common worldwide and rarely cause serious issues.
Primary Rally Draws Crowd
Republicans held a rally in Toledo over the weekend as part of a push to energize voters ahead of the May primary. The event, organized by Toledoans for Trump, brought candidates and residents together in a city organizers say is more politically competitive than many assume.
A similar gathering in Bryan drew nearly 100 people throughout the day, with nine candidates making appearances. Both events focused on connecting voters directly with those running for office.
Community Spotlight
Judge Kuhlman Visits Seniors
Judge Joel M. Kuhlman is taking time this week to connect with Wood County seniors at the North Baltimore Senior Center. It's the kind of gesture that reminds us how local leaders can show up beyond the courtroom.
These moments matter because they keep the conversation going between those who serve and those they represent.
Pickle Festival Takes Downtown
This Saturday, over 35 vendors are bringing pickle-themed everything to downtown Toledo. It's one of those wonderfully quirky events that reminds you why this city has such a distinct personality.
Whether you're a pickle enthusiast or just curious, it's a chance to support local vendors and enjoy something a little different in the heart of the city.
City Updates
Pearson Park Goes National
Pearson Metropark just earned a spot in the national Old-Growth Forest Network, recognized on Arbor Day for its ecological significance. It's a quiet honor for one of Toledo's green spaces, marking the park as home to trees and ecosystems worth preserving at a national level.
The designation puts Pearson alongside forests across the country valued for their age, biodiversity, and natural heritage. A nice reminder that Toledo has more than a few gems tucked into its landscape.
Events This Week
Monday, April 27, 2026 from 10:00 AM–4:00 PM - Orchid Show, The Toledo Zoo
A showcase of beautiful orchid displays and floral exhibits at the zoo.
Link
Tuesday, April 28, 2026 from 1:00 PM–8:00 PM - Nigerian Food Tour - Toledo, Rudy’s Hot Dog
A cultural food experience highlighting Nigerian cuisine and flavors across Toledo.
Link
Tuesday, April 28, 2026 from 6:00 PM–7:00 PM - 2026 Season Kickoff | Toledo Girls Who Walk, Wildwood Preserve Metropark
A community kickoff walk event bringing people together for fitness and connection.
Link
Wednesday, April 29, 2026 from 6:00 PM–8:00 PM - Plant Bingo, The Blarney Event Center
A fun bingo night with plant-themed prizes and a lively social atmosphere.
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Thursday, April 30, 2026 from 6:30 PM–8:00 PM - Behind The Barrel: Guided Tasting + Educational Experience, Bellwether at Toledo Spirits
A guided tasting experience paired with education on spirits in an intimate setting.
Link
Thursday, April 30, 2026 from 7:00 PM–8:00 PM - Authors! with Alka Joshi, Main Library (Toledo Lucas County Public Library)
A live author event featuring bestselling writer Alka Joshi discussing her work and insights.
Link
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Thursday, April 30, 2026 at 8:00 PM - The Rock Orchestra by Candlelight: Toledo, OH, Stranahan Theater & Great Hall
A unique live performance blending rock music with a candlelit orchestral experience.
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Friday, May 1, 2026 from 7:00 PM–10:30 PM - Bluesman Bobby G. with The Third Street Cigar Band, Lucille’s Jazz Lounge
A live blues performance featuring Bobby G. and The Third Street Cigar Band.
Link
Friday, May 1, 2026 at 7:30 PM - Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, SFSMT
A vibrant musical retelling the story of Joseph with energetic songs and performances.
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Saturday, May 2, 2026 from 9:00 AM–2:00 PM - Wild Toledo Native Plant Sales, The Toledo Zoo
A plant sale featuring native species perfect for local gardens and ecosystems.
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Saturday, May 2, 2026 from 6:00 PM–11:59 PM - 5th Annual Jane Austen Regency Ball, 235 14th St, Toledo, OH
A Regency-era themed ball with costumes, dancing, and an immersive historical atmosphere.
Link
Sunday, May 3, 2026 from 9:00 AM–6:00 PM - Outdoor Community Flea Market, 1544 S Byrne Rd, Toledo, OH
A large outdoor flea market featuring local vendors, goods, and community shopping.
Link
Well that’s all for now. Did you know you can respond to these emails and we will respond back? What do you guys want to see more of?
Thanks for reading The Toledo Dispatch. Talk soon!
-Jacob