Good morning, Toledo!
From city council chambers grappling with explosion aftermath to an actor bringing nine characters to life on stage, this week's pulse of Toledo beats with resilience and creativity. We're diving into the stories shaping our community, from difficult conversations about downtown homelessness to weekend celebrations featuring Prince tributes, German festivals, and a Wild West science party that's strictly for grown-ups.
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Local Business Spotlight: Black & White Transportation
Black & White Transportation is Toledo's trusted provider of wheelchair-accessible and paratransit services, helping individuals maintain their independence through safe, reliable, and on-time transportation.
With a modern fleet and professionally trained drivers, every ride is delivered with care, dignity, and attention to each passenger's unique mobility needs.
Now featuring the Traversa™ Chair, Black & White Transportation offers an advanced non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) solution. This innovative alternative to traditional stretcher transport allows passengers to remain comfortably seated while receiving the support they need, making transfers easier and every trip more comfortable.
Whether you're traveling to a medical appointment, therapy session, or running essential errands, Black & White Transportation is committed to providing compassionate, dependable service every mile of the way.
News
Council Addresses Brent Explosion Aftermath
Three Toledo council members held a press conference Thursday at the Brent Industries site on South Avenue, where an August explosion killed two employees. Theresa Gadus, John Hobbs III, and Nick Komives will discuss ongoing neighborhood impacts and push for accountability and community support following the tragedy.
Fremont Ross football forfeits season-opening win after self-reporting an ineligible player
Fremont Ross football forfeits season-opening win after self-reporting an ineligible player, Fremont Ross defeated Columbian 22-21 in Week One, but will forfeit the win after the school determined one of its players could not compete.
Community Spotlight
Local Photographer Chases Island Dream
Jenna Doore has been so serious about getting on Survivor that she's written it into her wedding photography contracts for the past five years. Now the Toledo photographer is heading to Season 51, proving that sometimes the wildest backup plans actually come through.
Her clients always knew the deal, and now she gets to live out what she calls her lifelong dream when the season streams starting September 23.
One Actor, Nine Voices
John Duvall is bringing something special to Toledo School for the Arts this weekend: a one-man show that celebrates difference through nine distinct characters. The Absolute Brightness of Leonard Pelkey isn't just theater, it's a reminder that our differences deserve celebration, not just acceptance. Proceeds benefit PRISM, TSA's LGBTQ+ alliance.
City Updates
Downtown Homelessness Sparks Community Response
A property manager at the Davis Building on North Michigan Street reached out on social media this week, asking for help navigating the growing homelessness crisis downtown. The post struck a chord, drawing over 200 comments from others facing similar challenges. Chronic homelessness is up 127% in two years, and local agencies are now connecting with him to explore solutions.
School Camera Debate Heads to Committee
A plan to link District 2 school cameras with Toledo police is moving to the Public Safety Committee after council delayed a vote. Councilman Martinez says it's about filling a security gap for over 6,500 kids, but some colleagues want an audit first amid privacy concerns. More than a dozen schools have already signed on voluntarily.
Events This Week
Toledo's Summer Concert Series Wraps with Prince Tribute and R&B Celebration
Party in the Park: Thank You Toledo Finale
Friday 6-9 PM
Promenade Park
Cap off the summer with Arctic Clam, Marshall Charloff & the Purple Xperience (Prince Tribute), Wall Music's R&B hits, and DJ Lyt n Rod—plus food trucks and free admission for all.
Immersive Floral Art Takes Over Toledo Gallery
Where the Flowers Lead: Gallery Reception
Friday 6-8 PM
Local artists Allison Clements and Jules Webster transform the space into a vibrant botanical wonderland with nature-inspired works that invite wandering and reflection.
Jazz Piano Virtuoso Takes Center Stage in Toledo
Toledo Jazz Spotlight Series: Cliff Monear Trio
Robert Bell Studio
Friday 8-10 PM
Experience Michigan's acclaimed jazz pianist Cliff Monear as he transforms beloved standards and classics with lyrical improvisation in an intimate studio setting.
Six Decades of Gemütlichkeit Coming to Toledo
German American Festival
August 28-30
Oak Shade Grove
Experience authentic German culture with traditional food, import beers, folk dancing, and family-friendly activities at this beloved festival celebrating over 50 years of community tradition.
Wild West Meets Science: Adults-Only Hoedown Takes Over Toledo
Science After Dark: Hoedown Showdown
Imagination Station
Saturday 7-10 PM
Toledo Saddle up for an evening of whiskey tasting, metal casting workshops, mechanical bull riding, and line dancing in this 21+ science-meets-Wild West celebration.
UT Rockets Women's Volleyball Triple Header This Weekend
UT Women's Volleyball vs. Bradley
Friday · 6:00 PM
Savage Arena
Catch the Rockets take on Bradley in the first of three exciting home matches this weekend. Get details →
UT Women's Volleyball vs. Binghamton
Saturday · 12:00 PM
Savage Arena
Midday matchup as the Rockets face off against Binghamton in their second home game of the weekend. Get details →
UT Women's Volleyball vs. Oakland
Sunday · 7:00 PM
Savage Arena
Close out the weekend with an evening showdown as the Rockets host Oakland. Get details →
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