Good morning, Toledo! Another exciting fall weekend is here, and the Glass City is packed with plenty of reasons to get out and explore! From the University of Toledo's Homecoming festivities and a huge matchup against Buffalo at the Glass Bowl to the Grand Rapids Apple Butter Festival, the Toledo Zoo's Harvest Fest, and "Weird Al" Yankovic taking over the Huntington Center, there's something for everyone. Whether you're cheering on the Rockets, enjoying the fall colors, or spending time with family and friends, this weekend is shaping up to be a great one across Northwest Ohio!
In this week's headlines, we're covering some major changes across our community, including the sale of downtown Toledo's historic Hotel Lorraine, the upcoming closure of Cardinal Stritch Catholic High School, and the nearly completed demolition of the former St. Luke's Hospital in Maumee. We're also highlighting the Toledo Zoo's efforts to restore lake sturgeon to the Maumee River, a heartfelt cancer awareness event honoring a local woman's legacy, and the incredible work being done to bring comfort to young patients at ProMedica Children's Hospital. There's plenty happening in the 419, so grab your coffee, catch up on the latest, and start planning your weekend with The Toledo Dispatch!
Pack the Glass Bowl for Homecoming
There’s no better time to get out and support the Rockets. Toledo hosts Buffalo at 3:30 p.m. Saturday for Homecoming, and the Rockets enter the game 4-1 while riding a nine-game home winning streak.
Since 2023, Toledo is an incredible 19-2 at the Glass Bowl, winning those games by an average margin of 34.2 points. This team has given Toledo plenty to cheer about and now it’s time for the city to return the favor.
Let’s pack the Glass Bowl on Saturday. Bring your family, bring your friends, wear Midnight Blue and Gold and give the Rockets the Homecoming atmosphere they deserve.
News
Toledo Zoo's Sturgeon Fest Brings Ancient Fish Back to the Maumee River
The Toledo Zoo is inviting the community to help restore one of the Great Lakes' oldest species during its annual Sturgeon Fest on Saturday, October 10, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the City of Toledo boat launch on Broadway Street. Lake sturgeon, which can live more than 100 years and grow over six feet long, once thrived in the Maumee River before overfishing, pollution, and habitat loss devastated their population. Since 2018, conservation partners have been working to reintroduce thousands of young sturgeon into the river, with the ultimate goal of establishing a self-sustaining population. This free, family-friendly event gives visitors the opportunity to release a young sturgeon, learn about local conservation efforts, and even sponsor a fish to support its recovery.
St. Luke's Hospital Demolition Nears Completion as Maumee Looks Toward Redevelopment
Demolition of the former St. Luke's Hospital in Maumee is nearing completion, marking a major step toward transforming the property along Monclova Road. The hospital closed in 2023 after years of financial struggles, ending decades of service to Northwest Ohio residents. City officials envision transforming the former hospital grounds into a mixed-use neighborhood featuring housing, retail businesses, public spaces, and other community amenities. While specific redevelopment plans have yet to be finalized, the property's transformation represents a significant opportunity for new investment and growth in Maumee.
Community Spotlight
Toledo Cancer Awareness Fashion Show to Honor Woman Who Helped Organize Event Before Her Passing
A Toledo cancer awareness benefit and fashion show this Saturday, October 10, will honor the life of Paulette J. Carter, who passed away September 11 after battling pancreatic cancer. Carter helped organize the annual C.A.U.S.E Without a Rebel Luncheon and Fashion Show, remaining dedicated to the event even while undergoing treatment. Family, friends, and community members are carrying on her mission, with plans to establish a $500 scholarship in her memory and donate a portion of the proceeds to the American Cancer Society. The event takes place at Aria Banquet Hall on Telegraph Road from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with tickets available for $35 per person.
Helping Kids Be Kids: ProMedica Children's Hospital Brings Comfort Through Play
At ProMedica Russell J. Ebeid Children's Hospital in Toledo, child life specialist Kelsey Fankhauser is helping young patients navigate the challenges of hospitalization through play, education, and emotional support. From explaining intimidating medical procedures like MRIs and IVs using toys to providing activities that bring a sense of normalcy, Fankhauser works to make hospital stays less frightening for children. These programs are made possible through community donations and initiatives like the Greater Toledo Home Giveaway, which helps fund toys, activities, and other resources for young patients. The program serves as a reminder that even during difficult medical experiences, every child deserves the opportunity to simply be a kid.
City Updates
Historic Hotel Lorraine in Downtown Toledo Sells for Just $200,100 at Sheriff's Auction
The historic Hotel Lorraine, located at 1117 Jefferson Avenue in downtown Toledo, has sold for $200,100 at a sheriff's auction following years of vacancy and unsuccessful redevelopment efforts. Originally opened in 1925, the building has sat vacant since 2019 and has faced mounting maintenance concerns, including falling bricks that forced a temporary street closure earlier this year. The property previously sold for $1.1 million in 2023, but redevelopment plans never materialized. The sale marks another chapter for the century-old landmark, although its future remains uncertain as Toledo continues efforts to revitalize its downtown and UpTown neighborhoods.
Cardinal Stritch Catholic High School to Close After 65 Years
Cardinal Stritch Catholic High School in Oregon will permanently close at the end of December 2026, marking the end of a 65-year chapter in Northwest Ohio education. The decision comes after years of declining enrollment and financial challenges, with just 69 students currently attending the high school. Despite efforts to boost enrollment through marketing initiatives and new academic programs, school leadership determined that continuing operations was no longer financially sustainable. Current high school students will receive assistance transitioning to other schools, including Central Catholic High School, beginning in January. Cardinal Stritch Academy, serving preschool through eighth grade, will remain open and continue serving local families.
Events This Week
Toledo Women's Volleyball vs. Kent State
The Toledo Rockets women's volleyball team hosts Kent State for a Mid-American Conference showdown.
Friday, October 9 | 6:00 PM
Savage Arena | Toledo, OH
University of Toledo Homecoming
Celebrate Rocket pride as the University of Toledo welcomes alumni, students, and fans for its annual Homecoming festivities, featuring a parade through Old Orchard and a football showdown against Buffalo. Enjoy a day filled with school spirit, community celebrations, and exciting football action as the Rockets look to defend their home turf against the Bulls.
Saturday, October 10 | 10 AM Parade, 3:30 PM Football
University of Toledo | Glass Bowl | Toledo, OH
Toledo Rockets Football vs. Buffalo
The Toledo Rockets return to the Glass Bowl for their annual Homecoming game against the Buffalo Bulls, looking to extend their nine-game home winning streak and improve on their impressive 4-1 record. Wear your midnight blue and gold and help pack the Glass Bowl as the Rockets battle for another Mid-American Conference victory in one of the biggest games of the season!
Saturday, October 10 | 3:30 PM
Glass Bowl Stadium | Toledo, OH
Grand Rapids Apple Butter Festival
Celebrate the flavors and traditions of fall at the annual Grand Rapids Apple Butter Festival, featuring homemade apple butter, local artisans, delicious food, and family-friendly entertainment. Explore the charming streets of historic downtown Grand Rapids while enjoying seasonal treats, unique crafts, and a festive autumn atmosphere.
Sunday, October 11 | All Day
Downtown Grand Rapids | Grand Rapids, OH
"Weird Al" Yankovic – Bigger & Weirder 2026 Tour
Five-time Grammy Award winner "Weird Al" Yankovic brings his Bigger & Weirder 2026 Tour to downtown Toledo for a night of hilarious musical parodies, outrageous costumes, and high-energy entertainment. Fans can enjoy iconic hits, rarely performed favorites, and a supersized live production featuring his longtime band, with special guest Puddles Pity Party joining the fun!
Saturday, October 10 | 8:00 PM
Huntington Center | Toledo, OH
Toledo Zoo Harvest Fest
Celebrate the fall season at the Toledo Zoo's Harvest Fest, where colorful autumn displays, festive decorations, and seasonal activities bring the zoo to life. Enjoy a family-friendly outing filled with fall fun while exploring animal exhibits and soaking up the sights and sounds of autumn.
Friday, October 9 | 10 AM–8 PM
Toledo Zoo & Aquarium | Toledo, OH
Toledo Choice Sponsors
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Well that’s all for now, thanks for reading.
Hope you have a great weekend!
Sincerely, Eli