Good morning, Toledo.

Well here it is! By popular demand, our first ever Friday edition. We have some interesting stories and some last minute events for you in case you didn’t have plans for the holiday weekend, hope you enjoy the quick read…

In today's edition:

-The Reptile House is back after renovations

-A Rossford officer's kidney donation story

-Toledo's summer youth safety initiative

Let's get to it.

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The Toledo Zoo's historic Reptile House reopens Friday after a year-long renovation that brought new exhibits, better animal habitats, and a fresh event space. The 1930s building got a full infrastructure upgrade while keeping its iconic character intact.

Visitors can expect new species like crocodile monitors and a bigger home for Baru, the saltwater crocodile. The zoo is celebrating with demonstrations, giveaways, and activities all day.

Read more →

Rossford's Officer Michael Shaffer recently donated a kidney to Ohio State Highway Patrol Commander Matt Geer after he went into kidney failure last fall. The Ohio State Highway Patrol honored Shaffer with the Distinguished Service Medallion, recognizing his sacrifice as the ultimate act of service.

It's the kind of selfless act that reminds us what community really means—showing up for each other when it matters most.

Learn more →

Toledo is rolling out over 70 summer programs aimed at keeping young people engaged and reducing crime. Mayor Kapszukiewicz credits similar efforts with helping drive homicides down 20% compared to last year. A ceasefire event is planned for July 2nd at Glass City Metro Park, part of a broader push to offer kids positive outlets through basketball camps, urban farming, swim lessons, and paid opportunities.

Read more →

Summer Season Kickoff Celebration

Saturday, May 23, 2026 at 10:00 am

2 Hippo Way, Toledo, OH

Celebrate the Summer Season Kickoff at the Zoo with a newly reimagined Reptile House, live entertainment, animal encounters, hands-on activities, and family-friendly fun all Memorial Day weekend. Get details → 

Papapalooza 2026

Saturday, May 23, 2026 at 02:00 pm

1328 Liberty St, Toledo, OH

Papapalooza returns for its 19th year with live bands, smash burgers, drinks, a car and bike show, and one of Toledo’s biggest all-day block parties packed with nonstop entertainment. Get details → 

Artasia & Bookie Nights: A night market experience

Saturday, May 23, 2026 at 04:00 pm

1505 Front Street, Toledo, OH

A wonderful night market experience featuring 50+ artists and authors, live music, food, drinks, and creative energy at the Ribbon in Glass City Metropark in Downtown Toledo. Get details → 

The Vistula Artist Market: Spring 2026

Sunday, May 24, 2026 at 11:00 am

1301 N Summit St, Toledo, OH

A vibrant outdoor spring market featuring 50+ local artists, live music, food trucks, craft cocktails, and family-friendly activities celebrating local creativity and community. Get details → 

Fire on the River 2026

Sunday, May 24, 2026 at 04:00 pm

400 Water St, Toledo, OH

Join us at Fire on the River for an evening of worship, prayer, and family fun featuring live worship, kids’ activities, food trucks, and vendors from around the Toledo area, with sponsorship, volunteer, and vendor opportunities available. Get details →

Well that’s all for now, thanks for reading.

Hope you have a great week!

Sincerely, Jacob