Good morning, Toledo!
It’s a busy week across the Toledo area as September comes to a close and October begins. Local headlines include new developments surrounding Oregon’s proposed data center, another Flock camera being vandalized in west Toledo, and a community remembering a young man killed in a hit-and-run while riding an e-scooter. We’re also highlighting a local Medal of Honor recipient returning home to share his story, an adorable new Bactrian camel calf at the Toledo Zoo, and a stretch of warmer weather before more fall-like temperatures settle in.
There’s plenty happening around town this week, too. Catch Tuesday night jazz at Lucille’s, hear from authors Beverly Jenkins, Nikki Payne and Susan Zurenda, or enjoy free live music and salsa dancing at Danny Thomas Park. With Thursday night comedy at Toledo Spirits, Twilight Evenings at the Toledo Zoo, and haunted tours in both downtown Sylvania and Waterville, there are plenty of reasons to get out and explore Toledo as we officially turn the calendar to October.
Local Business Spotlight: Plumbers Near Me 419
A Local Plumbing Team for the Problems That Can’t Wait
When a plumbing issue pops up, having someone nearby matters. Plumbers Near Me LLC is based in Sylvania and serves homes and businesses across Greater Toledo and Lucas County with 24/7 emergency plumbing, water heater repair and installation, drain and sewer cleaning, fixture replacement, and more. The company emphasizes fast response times, experienced service, and fair pricing—especially when the problem is urgent. For Toledo-area homeowners who want a local plumber they can call before a small issue turns into a much bigger one, Plumbers Near Me is worth keeping on the fridge.
News
Another Toledo Surveillance Camera Taken Down Amid Ongoing Controversy
Toledo police are investigating after another Flock Safety surveillance camera was vandalized in west Toledo. The camera, located near Dorr Street and Reynolds Road, appears to have been cut down, marking another incident involving the city’s network of license plate-reading cameras.
The incident comes as Toledo’s use of Flock cameras continues to generate debate in the community. The technology is designed to help law enforcement identify vehicles connected to crimes, but the cameras have also faced criticism over privacy and surveillance concerns. Police are continuing to investigate the latest vandalism.
Warm Start to the Week Before Cooler Fall Air Arrives
Northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan are heading into the new week with warm conditions, as temperatures remain above what’s typical for late September. The forecast calls for a generally pleasant stretch, giving the Toledo area more summer-like weather as September comes to a close.
Changes are expected as the forecast progresses, with temperatures eventually trending cooler and bringing a more fall-like feel back to the region. Northwest Ohioans can keep an eye on the forecast throughout the week as conditions and temperatures shift heading into early October.
Community Spotlight
Local Medal of Honor Recipient Returns Home to Share His Story
Edward C. Byers Jr., a retired Navy SEAL and 1997 Otsego High School graduate, returned to his alma mater Saturday to share stories from his military career and reflect on service, sacrifice and American values. The Grand Rapids native served 11 overseas deployments and nine combat tours during his Navy career before retiring after more than two decades of service.
Byers received the Medal of Honor in 2016 for his actions during a 2012 hostage rescue mission in Afghanistan, where his team rescued American doctor Dilip Joseph. His return to Otsego was part of the area's celebration of America's 250th anniversary, giving the community an opportunity to hear directly from one of northwest Ohio's most decorated veterans.
Toledo Community Remembers 21-Year-Old Killed in E-Scooter Crash
Family and friends gathered for a candlelight vigil to remember 21-year-old Nathaniel LaBelle, who was killed while riding an electric scooter in East Toledo. LaBelle was struck on Main Street in the early morning hours of Sept. 20 and later died at the hospital, leaving behind a one-year-old daughter.
Loved ones described LaBelle as someone who was deeply loved by those around him and was just weeks away from becoming an electrician, following in his father’s footsteps. Toledo police continue to investigate the hit-and-run, and anyone with information is being asked to contact Crime Stoppers at 419-255-1111.
City Updates
Oregon Data Center Proposal Takes Another Step Forward
New details are emerging about a proposed data center development in Oregon, Ohio, after a draft term agreement outlined the framework for the project. The proposal from Ohio Vantage has drawn significant attention from residents as city leaders consider the potential economic benefits alongside concerns surrounding the massive development.
The draft agreement provides a clearer picture of what the project could look like if it moves forward, though the deal has not yet been finalized. Discussions surrounding the data center are expected to continue as Oregon officials evaluate the proposal and residents weigh its potential impact on the community.
Toledo Zoo Welcomes an Adorable New Addition
The Toledo Zoo has welcomed a new Bactrian camel calf, adding another youngster to its growing animal family. The male calf, who has not yet been named, was born on September 19 to parents Sasha and Cash and weighed 125 pounds at birth.
Zoo officials say the calf is healthy and has been bonding with his mother behind the scenes. Visitors will have to wait a little longer to meet the long-legged newcomer, as the zoo says he’ll make his public debut once animal care staff determine he’s ready.
Events This Week
Romance-Con Brings Two Acclaimed Authors to Toledo
Romance readers can enjoy an evening with acclaimed authors Beverly Jenkins and Nikki Payne at the Toledo Lucas County Public Library. The event will feature a conversation about storytelling and romance, followed by an audience Q&A and book signings.
When: Wednesday, September 30 | 6–8 p.m.
Where: Toledo Lucas County Public Library – Main Library
Free Live Music and Salsa Dancing Coming to Danny Thomas Park
The Levitt Bloc Toledo Music Series continues with a free evening of live music featuring Meche Trejo, along with an opening performance from Tony Rios and community salsa dancers. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs, with food available for purchase from local food trucks.
When: Thursday, October 1 | 6–8 p.m.
Where: Danny Thomas Park, 2128 Broadway St., Toledo
Award-Winning Novelist Susan Zurenda Visits Toledo
Award-winning author Susan Zurenda will discuss her new novel, No Way Out but Through, including the inspiration, research and real-life experiences behind the story. The program includes a 45-minute presentation followed by an audience Q&A, and each ticket comes with a first-edition hardcover copy of the book.
When: Thursday, October 1 | 7–8 p.m.
Where: Toledo Lucas County Public Library – Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St.
Explore Sylvania’s Spooky Side With a Haunted Brew Tour
Upside Brewing and Heritage Sylvania are teaming up for a guided walking tour exploring the true history, eerie stories and mysteries of downtown Sylvania. The $40 experience includes two adult DORA beverages, with a portion benefiting Heritage Sylvania’s work preserving the community’s history.
When: Thursday, October 1 | 7–9 p.m.
Where: Upside Brewing, 5692 Main St., Sylvania
Thursday Night Laughs at Toledo Spirits
Head underground at Toledo Spirits for a free night of comedy featuring a mix of touring comedians, local favorites and rising talent. Guests can arrive early for food before the show and enjoy Toledo Spirits’ cocktail and liquor menu throughout the night.
When: Thursday, October 1 | Seating at 7:30 p.m. | Show 8–9:45 p.m.
Where: Toledo Spirits Company, 1301 N. Summit St., Toledo
Spend an Evening at the Toledo Zoo
The Toledo Zoo is keeping the gates open later for Twilight Evenings, giving visitors extra time to explore animal exhibits, attractions, shops and dining in a more relaxed evening atmosphere. Guests can also take advantage of half-price admission after 4 p.m., while zoo members receive free admission.
When: Thursday, October 1 | 4–8 p.m.
Where: Toledo Zoo & Aquarium, 2 Hippo Way, Toledo
Haunted History Comes to Life in Waterville
Explore Waterville’s haunted past with a two-part experience beginning with a paranormal investigation presentation inside the historic Robbins House Museum. Afterward, guests will board a horse-drawn trolley for a guided ride through the historic district, stopping at locations tied to reported hauntings and local ghost stories.
When: Thursday, October 1 | Tours at 5:15, 6:00, 6:45, 7:30 & 8:15 p.m.
Where: Robbins House Museum, 114 S. River Rd., Waterville
Tuesday Night Jazz Takes Over Lucille’s Lounge
Gene Parker and Damen Cook bring decades of musical experience to the stage for a weekly night of live jazz at Lucille’s Lounge. The evening also features made-from-scratch Taco Tuesday specials, with a $5 music fee and two-drink minimum.
When: Tuesday, September 29 | 7–9:30 p.m.
Where: Lucille’s Jazz Lounge, 1447 N. Summit St., Toledo
Toledo Choice Sponsors
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Well that’s all for now, thanks for reading.
Hope you have a great week!
Sincerely, Eli