Good morning, Toledo! Another exciting fall weekend is here, and the Glass City has plenty to keep you busy! From the 40th Annual Sylvania Fall Festival and the medieval festivities of Black Swamp Ren Fest to delicious eats at Toledo Pig Fest, there's no shortage of ways to get out and enjoy the weekend. If you're looking for a night of entertainment, Toledo Opera's Aida and the Broadway musical The Bodyguard are bringing unforgettable performances to local stages, while the Painted Ladies exhibition celebrates the creativity and contributions of women in tattooing.
Beyond the weekend festivities, we're catching you up on some of the biggest stories happening across northwest Ohio. Toledo's annual Tent City returns as the community confronts growing homelessness and housing challenges, while a local family is turning their twin sons' battle with kidney failure into a mission to help others. We're also covering Nova Steel's potential expansion in Delta, the recovery of three missing children in East Toledo, the city's order to demolish a dangerous Airport Highway property, and growing safety concerns surrounding construction on Executive Parkway. Whether you're making weekend plans or catching up on local headlines, we've got you covered. Let's get into it!
Toledo Football Returns to the Glass Bowl for Senior Day on October 24
The Toledo Rockets return to the Glass Bowl on Saturday, October 24, for a noon showdown against the Western Michigan Broncos! The matchup will also feature Senior Day, as Toledo honors its graduating players for their dedication and contributions to the program. Fans will also celebrate a special milestone: Rocky the Rocket's 60th birthday!
With MAC competition heating up, the Rockets will look to defend their home turf and build momentum heading into the final stretch of the season. Rocket fans are encouraged to pack the Glass Bowl, celebrate the seniors, and show their support for Toledo football!
Saturday, October 24 | Noon
Glass Bowl – University of Toledo
News
Nova Steel Eyes Expansion in Fulton County, Bringing Potential for 50 New Jobs
Nova Steel is considering expanding its operations in Delta, Ohio, potentially bringing up to 50 additional jobs to Fulton County. The steel manufacturer currently supports 183 skilled manufacturing positions and is evaluating two expansion projects, including additional warehouse space. Despite ongoing tariff challenges that have significantly reduced business between its U.S. and Canadian operations, CEO Scott Jones remains optimistic about the company's future and believes tariffs are necessary to protect American steel production. U.S. Representative Marcy Kaptur recently toured the facility, emphasizing the importance of domestic steel manufacturing while expressing concerns about trade tensions with Canada. The company expects to make decisions on its potential investments by the end of 2028.
Three Missing Children Found Safe in East Toledo Following Police Investigation
A joint investigation by Toledo Police and the U.S. Marshals Service led to the recovery of three missing children in East Toledo on Thursday, October 15. Authorities located a 16-year-old girl who had been missing since March, along with a 14-year-old girl and a 7-month-old infant, at a residence in the 1000 block of Artis Place. The investigation began after the 16-year-old was reported missing, with federal marshals joining the search in July before new information led investigators to the home. All three children have been placed in the care of local authorities and are now safe. Officials have not released additional details about the circumstances surrounding their disappearance or whether criminal charges will be filed.
Community Spotlight
Toledo's Annual Tent City Returns as Housing Challenges Grow
Toledo's annual Tent City event returns downtown this weekend, providing critical support to individuals and families experiencing homelessness as rising evictions and housing costs continue to strain the community. Organized by 1Matters, the event runs from Friday, October 16, through Sunday, October 18, along Jackson Street near Lucas Metropolitan Housing's headquarters, offering free meals, health screenings, haircuts, hygiene supplies, clothing, and assistance securing housing. Organizers expect increased demand this year as affordable housing shortages and limited shelter capacity create additional challenges for local residents. Last year's event assisted 1,444 individuals, including registered participants and their family members, highlighting the importance of the annual initiative.
Northwest Ohio Family Turns Personal Kidney Health Battle Into Mission to Help Others
A northwest Ohio family is using their experience with kidney disease to raise awareness and support others facing similar challenges. Eric and Emily Simpson's 6-year-old twin sons, William and Asher, suffered acute kidney failure at just 2 years old, requiring dialysis and approximately three weeks in intensive care. Although both boys remain active today, they continue to receive medical monitoring as their long-term kidney health remains uncertain. Inspired by their journey, Eric joined the Kidney Foundation of Northwest Ohio's board of directors to help other families navigating kidney disease. The foundation will host its Pour with a Purpose fundraiser on Friday, October 23, from 6 to 9 p.m. at Urban Pine Winery & Eatery in Maumee, with proceeds supporting those affected by kidney disease.
City Updates
City Orders Demolition of Hazardous Airport Highway Property
The City of Toledo has ordered the demolition of a deteriorating home along Airport Highway near Hanover Street following repeated complaints from neighbors about unsafe conditions. The property has reportedly become a neighborhood concern due to structural damage, exposed basement areas, accumulating debris, and reports of rodents and trespassers. City officials began issuing code violations in December 2025 and have given the property owner 72 hours to demolish the structure and clear the site. If the owner fails to comply, the city may proceed with demolition to eliminate the safety hazards.
Executive Parkway Construction Sparks Safety Concerns as Drivers Navigate Confusing Traffic Patterns
Ongoing construction along Executive Parkway between Central Avenue and Secor Road is raising safety concerns among Toledo residents, with reports of drivers entering closed sections of roadway and traveling in the wrong direction. The $2.3 million project includes resurfacing, new medians, and traffic-calming measures designed to improve safety and reduce speeding. However, nearby residents say confusing signage and construction barrels have created dangerous conditions for motorists, pedestrians, and construction workers. City officials acknowledge the temporary disruptions and urge drivers to follow posted signs while crews work to maintain access to surrounding businesses. Construction is expected to wrap up by the end of October, with one final traffic pattern change planned during the last phase of paving.
Zombie Crawl Takes Over Downtown Toledo on October 24
Get ready for a night of live music, Halloween festivities, and downtown Toledo fun as the Bronze Boar teams up with the District 419 Zombie Crawl on Saturday, October 24! The festivities kick off at 6 PM, with live performances from Cheap Spirits from 7–8 PM and Willow Run from 9–11 PM.
Presented by octiv.live, the evening promises a lively atmosphere filled with great music and plenty of spooky spirit. Whether you're participating in the Zombie Crawl or just looking for a fun Saturday night downtown, the Bronze Boar is a great place to join the festivities.
Saturday, October 24 | Starting at 6 PM
Events This Week
Painted Ladies: Women in Tattooing
Explore the artistry and history of women in tattooing at this free exhibition featuring work by local female tattoo artists alongside recreations of pieces by influential women throughout tattoo history. Running through October 30, the exhibit celebrates the creativity, talent, and lasting contributions of women in the tattoo industry.
Friday and Saturday Noon - 6 PM
The Portal at Toledo School for the Arts
The Bodyguard – Broadway Musical
Experience the romance, suspense, and unforgettable music of The Bodyguard, the hit stage musical based on the beloved 1992 film starring Whitney Houston and Kevin Costner. Follow former Secret Service agent Frank Farmer as he protects superstar Rachel Marron in a thrilling love story featuring iconic songs like "I Will Always Love You" and "I Wanna Dance with Somebody."
Friday 7:30 PM
Saturday 2 and 7:30 PM
Sunday 1 and 6:30 PM
The Stranahan Theater
Aida – Toledo Opera
Experience the grandeur of Verdi's Aida as Toledo Opera brings this timeless tale of love, betrayal, and sacrifice to the Valentine Theatre. Set in ancient Egypt, the production follows an Ethiopian princess torn between her love for a heroic Egyptian warrior and her loyalty to her homeland, delivering a powerful evening of music, drama, and unforgettable performances.
Friday 7:30 PM
Sunday 2 PM
The Valentine Theater
40th Annual Sylvania Fall Festival
Celebrate 40 years of fall traditions as the Sylvania Fall Festival returns for a weekend filled with live music, local craft vendors, food trucks, seasonal treats, and family-friendly activities. This free community celebration also features a cornhole tournament, kids' activities, trick-or-treating, and the annual Fall Festival Parade on Sunday at 1 PM.
Saturday, October 17 | 2–8 PM & Sunday, October 18 | 10 AM–4 PM Centennial Terrace | 5773 Centennial Rd., Sylvania
Black Swamp Ren Fest
Step back in time at the Black Swamp Ren Fest, where the historic Toledo Club transforms into a medieval-inspired celebration filled with live entertainment, artisan vendors, interactive blacksmithing, and traditional crafts. Guests are encouraged to dress in Renaissance attire, enjoy tabletop gaming, explore a historic tavern, and participate in trinket trading, with free admission available in exchange for a canned food donation benefiting SeaGate Food Bank.
Saturday 11 AM - 5 PM
The Toledo Club
Toledo Pig Fest
Get ready to go hog wild as Toledo Pig Fest takes over Adams Street in Uptown Toledo for a day of delicious food, live music, drinks, and entertainment. Local food trucks and vendors will serve up exclusive pork and bacon-inspired creations, with free admission making this Sweetest Day celebration a perfect outing for food lovers.
Saturday 11 AM - 7 PM
Toledo School For the Arts
Toledo Choice Sponsors
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Well that’s all for now, thanks for reading.
Hope you have a great weekend!
Sincerely, Eli