Good morning, Toledo 👋

This week’s Dispatch covers neighborhood concerns, a big cultural win, and community support. We start on the west side, where residents want action on long-neglected properties, then head to a global stage where Toledo talent brought home major honors.

You’ll also see locals stepping up to support Metroparks traditions and keep library programs running, plus a full slate of MLK Day events to kick off the week.

Residents near Western Avenue and Sumner Street are pushing for action on deteriorating abandoned homes that have been eyesores for years. Two properties are at the center of concerns, with one having unpaid taxes since 2015 and storm damage adding to the decay.

The city has issued nuisance orders and is considering demolition for one property, though officials prefer working with owners first. Neighbors say they feel overlooked and want accountability for properties that pose safety risks.

Read more →

Tribu Masadyaon brought home multiple victories from this year's Sinulog Grand Parade, sweeping the Free Interpretation category and claiming top honors in both music and costume competitions. The group's performance stood out among dozens of participants from across the region.

It's been a strong showing for Toledo at one of the Philippines' biggest cultural festivals, with our local talent proving they can compete with the best. The wins add to the city's growing reputation in regional cultural competitions.

Read more →

Metroparks Toledo is calling on creative locals to help transform the Manor House for next year's holiday celebration. They're looking for volunteers to decorate specific areas, turning the historic space into a seasonal wonderland that brings families together each December.

It's one of those community traditions that depends on neighbors stepping up to make the magic happen. The application deadline is February 28th.

Learn more →

🎨 MLK Day | Strength in Unity — Toledo Museum of Art
11:00 AM – 5:00 PM — Celebrate Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy with performances, family activities, and keynote remarks.

🌐 City of Toledo 2026 MLK Unity Day Celebration — Online & in-person screen
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM — Reflections and performances honoring Dr. King (accessible online and with a community screening).

🖼️ Community Appreciation Days — National Museum of the Great Lakes
All Day — Free museum admission through Jan 19.

🧘 Tuesday Classes — Toledo Mindfulness Institute
Weekly wellness sessions and mindfulness classes (times vary).

🎶 Open Mic Night — First Base Lounge
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM — Local performers take the stage downtown.

🎨 Frozen in Time: A Wooden & Antique Boat Showcase — National Museum of the Great Lakes
Exhibit continues this week — great for history buffs.

⛸️ The Ribbon Ice Skating Trail — Glass City Riverwalk
Ongoing winter ice skating trail open through March.

🎤 Thursday Night Comedy — Toledo Spirits / Underground
7:30 PM – 10:00 PM — Weekly stand-up comedy night.

🎶 Live at the Library with Chloe Kimes!
6:30 PM – 8:00 PM — Music performance at a local library venue.

🏀 Toledo Rockets Men’s Basketball vs. Bowling Green — Savage Arena
5:00 PM — Local college hoops showcase.

😂 Nate Bargatze: Big Dumb Eyes World Tour — Huntington Center
7:00 PM — National comedy tour stop in Toledo.

🎺 Count Basie Tribute with Toledo Jazz Orchestra
8:00 PM — Live jazz performance spotlight.

Thanks for reading The Toledo Dispatch. Talk soon!