Good morning, Toledo!
From championship celebrations to riverside renewal, Toledo is buzzing with pride and progress this week. Whether you're ready to groove at free R&B concerts, cheer on the Rockets and Mud Hens, or discover how the Glass City is leading the way in sustainability, there's something here to make every Toledoan smile. Let's dive into what's making our city shine.
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News
Rockets Raising Championship Banners
Toledo volleyball is celebrating last season's MAC Tournament title with a banner ceremony on August 22 at Savage Arena. The unveiling happens before an exhibition match against Ferris State, with festivities starting at 3:50 p.m.
First 300 fans through the door get a replica banner to take home. Extra merch is available online for anyone who misses out.
River Cleanup Gets Big Boost
The Port Authority just landed $34 million to dredge contaminated sediment from a mile-long stretch of the Maumee near downtown. The project targets decades-old industrial pollutants trapped in the riverbed, with work starting next spring and running through 2028. It's the first in what officials hope will be a series of cleanups along the waterfront.
Community Spotlight
Michigan Renaissance Fair Tickets Available
The Michigan Renaissance Festival is offering ticket giveaways for Toledo-area residents looking for a weekend escape. It's a chance to experience jousting, artisan markets, and period entertainment just a short drive north.
These community giveaways help make the festival accessible to families who might not otherwise go, which is a nice gesture for neighbors looking to try something different.
Friday Night Lights, Toledo Style
Justin Feldkamp has been bringing high school football to living rooms across the area for years, and Football Friday on 13 Action News is where the community gathers to see which teams are rising in the rankings and which matchups matter most.
It's more than highlights, it's how we stay connected to the schools, the players, and the Friday night energy that makes fall feel like home.
City Updates
Glass City Goes Full Circle
Toledo's G.R.I.T. initiative is turning the city's glass legacy into a recycling success story. With six public drop-off bins and 18 restaurant partners, the program has already diverted 286 tons of glass from landfills in just over a year. The recycled glass gets crushed into cullet and fed right back into local manufacturers like Owens Corning, saving energy and closing the loop on what used to be a one-way trip to the dump.
Sheriff Sets New Rules for License Plate Cameras
Lucas County now has formal guidelines for how its 33 Flock cameras can be used by law enforcement. Sheriff Mike Navarre's new policy addresses privacy concerns by limiting data storage to 30 days and banning misuse like harassment or personal snooping.
The move comes as these surveillance systems face growing scrutiny locally and nationwide. The full policy is available through the Sheriff's Office Transparency Portal.
Events This Week
Toledo's Free Summer Concert Series Celebrates R&B This Week
Party in the Park: R&B Weekend
Friday 6-9 PM
Promenade Park Downtown Toledo
Enjoy multiple eras of R&B music with performances by Wall Music and headliner DJ Lyt n Rod, plus food trucks and cold beer at this free outdoor concert event.
Mud Hens Host Iowa Cubs for Three-Game Weekend Series
Toledo Mud Hens vs Iowa Cubs
Friday, 7:05 PM · Stingers Night
Saturday, 7:05 PM · 2006 Championship Celebration Night
Sunday, 2:05 PM · Crayola Night
Fifth Third Field
Catch all three games as the Mud Hens take on the Iowa Cubs with special themed nights each evening.
Comedy Powerhouse Gary Owen Hits Toledo Stage This Summer
Gary Owen: No Hard Feelings Tour
Friday 8:00 PM
Stranahan Theater, Toledo
Experience sharp wit and high-energy comedy from the nationally acclaimed comedian known for his unfiltered takes on life, relationships, and culture.
Dance the Night Away at Toledo's Bachata Social
Bachata Nights at Poco Loco
Friday 9-11:59 PM
Poco Loco, Toledo
Join Latin Dance Toledo for an inclusive evening of bachata, salsa, and merengue, no partner or experience needed, just bring your love for music and movement.
Escape to Margaritaville Without Leaving Toledo
Gone 2 Paradise: Jimmy Buffett Tribute Experience
H Lounge inside Hollywood Casino Toledo
Saturday 8-9:30 PM
This high-energy tribute band brings the laid-back island spirit of Jimmy Buffett to life with fan favorites and tropical vibes—plus it's free.
Last Call for Summer Sounds at Maumee Bay
Summer Concert with Renegade Lemonade
Saturday 6-9 PM
Maumee Bay Brewing Co.
Catch live music, cold brews, and food truck fare as summer winds down—the perfect evening to soak up the season one last time.
Toledo Choice Sponsors
Kora James & CO Is your clean, fragrance-free baby skincare and lifestyle brand based in Sylvania, Ohio. Ingredient transparency is at the core of the brands identity, giving parents products they can trust for their little ones. Kora James & Co, is projected to launch Spring of 2027. www.korajamesco.com
Jack and Irene’s WISH House You don’t have to choose between living alone and a nursing home. That’s why we created Jack & Irene’s WISH House, a welcoming, inviting, safe haven where adults who need a little extra support can continue living with dignity, independence, purpose, and a true sense of belonging in a place they can call home. Schedule a personal tour today. jackirenewish.com
JLS Cosmetics is a Toledo-area automotive detailing and pressure washing business offering both mobile and stationary services. They specialize in interior and exterior vehicle care including ceramic coating. High standards with private product help customer clients keep their vehicles looking clean and refreshed. With the convenience of mobile detailing. JLS Cosmetics can bring professional vehicle care right to you! Check out their Facebook in the link below or reach out to 567-395-2676. JLS Cosmetics
Well that’s all for now, thanks for reading.
Hope you have a great weekend!
Sincerely, Eli