Good morning, Toledo!
Summer is heating up in Toledo, and our community is responding with hammers in hand, hearts wide open, and calendars packed with can't-miss events. From WTOL 11's women rolling up their sleeves for Habitat for Humanity to a touching memorial walk honoring a young life lost too soon, this week's newsletter captures the spirit of a city that builds each other up. Dive in to discover accessible park passes, outdoor dining expansions, live music, fresh markets, and everything else that makes Northwest Ohio the place to be this season.
Your opinion matters!
We’ve added a quick poll at the bottom of today’s newsletter. Cast your vote for August’s Restaurant of the Month!
Be sure to follow us on Instagram as well! @toledodispatch
$75 AC Inspection Before the Heat Hits
Is your AC ready for summer? For just $75, our team will inspect your indoor and outdoor units to make sure your system is running efficiently and ready for the heat.
Avoid unexpected breakdowns and higher energy bills—schedule your AC inspection with Commodore Heating & Cooling today.
News
WTOL 11 team joins Habitat for Humanity in annual women build
The women at WTOL 11 traded the cameras and microphones for hammers and nails Saturday to help build the frame of a new home.
The Explore More Pass puts Toledo's parks in your pocket. This July, celebrate Disability Pride Month
The Explore More Pass puts Toledo's parks in your pocket. This July, celebrate Disability Pride Month by unlocking the exclusive Explore Without Limits Pass. Discover accessible parks, playgrounds, pools, and splash pads throughout Toledo, all designed to help more people enjoy the outdoors. There's something for everyone to explore. Visit the link below to download your free pass, start checking in at accessible locations, and earn points toward prizes along the way.
Community Spotlight
A Little Relief for Pool Owners
If you're filling a backyard pool this summer, Toledo's Department of Public Utilities has a small way to help. This month, residents can apply for up to $50 in sewer credits, a quiet acknowledgment that not all the water you use ends up in the sewer system.
It's one of those practical perks that shows the city paying attention to how people actually live here.
Family, community honor slain Toledo teen with a memorial walk
Family, friends and community members gathered Saturday to honor the life of 17-year-old Zayona Jackson, who was fatally shot earlier this month.
City Updates
Northwest Ohio Summer Guide
As temperatures climb, Northwest Ohio is rolling out a full lineup of summer activities, from peaceful garden walks in Perrysburg to history-filled weekends at Sauder Village in Archbold. Rossford's hosting balloon festivals and riverfront celebrations, while Fulton County invites visitors to explore small-town charm and outdoor trails. Whether you're looking for air-conditioned escapes or open-air adventures, the region has options for every kind of summer day.
Outdoor Dining Expands Across Toledo
Toledo's restaurant scene is leaning into patio season with a growing list of outdoor spaces that go well beyond a few sidewalk tables. From fire pits and live music stages to koi ponds and lawn games, local spots are creating reasons to linger outside a little longer this year.
The newly released guide highlights everything from downtown gastropubs to family-run Mexican restaurants, many offering happy hour deals, dog-friendly seating, and year-round covered patios. It's shaping up to be a strong season for alfresco dining across the city.
Events This Week
Monday Night Music and Detroit-Style Pizza in Downtown Toledo
Open Mic Night at First Base Lounge
Monday 6-9 PM
First Base Lounge, Downtown Toledo
Showcase your talent or discover local musicians while enjoying half-off specialty pizzas and craft cocktails in the heart of downtown.
Dive Into Great Lakes History at Toledo Museum
Currents of Change: The Living History of the Great Lakes
Monday - Saturday 10 AM - 5 PM,
Sunday Noon - 5 PM ·
National Museum of The Great Lakes
Explore the dynamic relationship between people and freshwater ecosystems, from beaver-driven economies to modern conservation challenges facing our region today.
Mud Hens Face Off Against Louisville Bats in Week-Long Home Series
Toledo Mud Hens vs. Louisville Bats
Tuesday-Saturday · 7:05 PM | Sunday · 4:05 PM
Fifth Third Field, Toledo
Catch the Mud Hens in action all week as they take on division rivals in this exciting home stand.
Live Jazz Takes Over Lucille's Lounge Every Tuesday
Sessions: Tuesday Night Live Jazz
Every Tuesday 7-9:30 PM
Lucille's Lounge
Experience the musical mastery of Gene Parker and Damen Cook in an intimate weekly jazz performance featuring decades of expertise across multiple genres.
Midweek Market Brings Fresh Finds to Uptown Maumee
Uptown Maumee Farmers' Market
Wednesday 4:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Uptown Maumee - Shop seasonal produce, handmade goods, and locally sourced products from area farmers, artisans, and small businesses in this welcoming community gathering.
Trivia Showdown with Toledo's Top Duo
Rich & Ronnie G Trivia Night at Migo's
Wednesday 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Test your knowledge against Toledo's sharpest trivia players while enjoying fantastic food and drink specials with hosts Rich & Ronnie G.
Summer Market in Downtown Perrysburg
Downtown Perrysburg Farmers' Market
Thursday 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
A weekly gathering featuring 66 vendors with fresh produce and handmade goods, 21 rotating food trucks, plus live music and yoga sessions starting in June.
Mix Up Summer with a Modern Tropical Cocktail Workshop
Tropical Without the Tiki
Wednesday, July 23 · 6:00 PM
Registry Bistro
Learn to craft vibrant, balanced tropical cocktails using fresh fruit, citrus, and herbs—no overly sweet tiki drinks here, just refined summer sipping with modern techniques and light nibbles included for $40 per guest.
What restaurant should we feature in August?
Toledo Choice Sponsors
Dave Crumbley Comedy Looking for live comedy in Toledo? Crumbley comedy features ticketed shows, free open mics, showcases, and special events throughout the area. Find upcoming dates, buy tickets, or sign up to perform at crumbleycomedy.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
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
Well that’s all for now, thanks for reading.
Hope you have a great week!
Sincerely, Eli