Good morning, Toledo.

Fireworks displays will light up NW Ohio as communities celebrate America’s 250th anniversary.

Toledo residents can cheer their show on July 4 while other towns plan events from July 2 to July 10 (schedules vary).

Kroger acquired regional grocer Giant Eagle in a $1.65 billion deal that included $1.25 billion in cash (plus the assumption of about $400 million in liabilities) on Wednesday.

The acquisition expands Kroger's operations across 197 supermarkets and 11 pharmacies in northern Ohio and neighboring regions.

A Ukrainian drone maker has selected northwest Ohio for its first US manufacturing center and will begin facility development soon to create local jobs + boost regional innovation.

On July 1, Gray Media completed the first closing of its $50 million deal to acquire six television stations by paying $40 million for Toledo’s WUPW FOX and began a limited local management agreement; final closing is expected later this year pending regulatory approvals.

Adam Fineske, former Ottawa Hills superintendent, has been named president and CEO of WGTE Public Media and will begin on August 1 – his 25+ years in educational leadership will guide the station's future direction.

A major shake-up in student loans is set to change how much borrowers owe, their repayment periods and forgiveness conditions.

Local students should review the new rules to see how their college funding may be affected.

UToledo’s Herb Innovation Center will host the THInC Forum: Education in the Era of AI on Thursday, July 30 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Thompson Student Union Ingman Room (educators must register online by 6 p.m. Thursday, July 16 to earn CEU credits).

Lucas County accepted a final report from the Child Protection Task Force that outlined eight recommendations—aimed at strengthening the county’s child welfare system.

County commissioners said the proposals will guide improvements in services for children.

Doctor Brian Kaminski at ProMedica (a local health expert) warned residents about rising heat stroke risks as temperatures climb.

He added that young children, older adults and those taking certain medications are more vulnerable, urging pet owners to keep their pets cool.

A Toledo doctor with ProMedica warned residents that the elderly, children, and those on certain medications face higher heat stroke risks as temperatures climb, and he advised keeping pets safe in the heat.

The Halim Clinic is expanding its free medical and dental care for Toledo residents as wait times now exceed one year.

Operating from Monroe Street and Perrysburg Heights, the clinic is seeking community donations and partnerships to support its services.

Employees at Maumee's Addison Heights voiced concerns after a report raised questions about the facility's conditions on Jul.

1. The nursing home has not yet responded to requests for comment.

Star Spangled Celebration

7-11 p.m. — Centennial Terrace & Quarry — $5-$120 — Celebrate Independence Day with live music, food, and a dazzling fireworks display.

Toledo Farmers Market

8 a.m. - 2 p.m. — Toledo Farmers' Market — Free entry — Explore home-grown produce, fresh baked goods, and handmade crafts at this local gem.

Music Under the Stars

7:30-9 p.m. — Toledo Zoo Amphitheatre — Free entry — Enjoy the sounds of popular regional bands in a lovely outdoor setting.

Karaoke Night with DJ Ang

8 p.m. — Georgjz419 Food, Fun, & Spirits — No cover — Sing your heart out at a lively karaoke night with free parking and an open patio.

The Twenty Fives Live at Bier Stube

6-10 p.m. — Bier Stube — Cover charge varies — Experience the energetic tunes of Classic Alternative and Modern Rock by The 25's.

Killer Queen Tribute Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Centennial Terrace & Quarry — Discount tickets available — Experience a tribute to Queen with concerts that deliver the ultimate nostalgia.

A Night with WWE Legends

5:00 – 6:30 PM — Maumee Indoor Theater — Ticketed Event — Experience an unforgettable evening with WWE Hall of Famers sharing their legendary stories and engaging in a fan Q&A session.

21st Annual African American Festival

5 PM — Toledo Urban Federal Credit Union — Free entry — Celebrate community spirit with a weekend of inspiration and entertainment.

Paddle & Groove with Dustin Dale Gaspard

6:00-7:30 p.m. — Middlegrounds Metropark — Cost varies — Enjoy a unique concert experience on the Maumee River featuring bilingual blues and folk music.

Jim Gaffigan Live Show

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Toledo Zoo Amphitheatre — Ticketed event — Enjoy an evening of laughter with renowned comedian Jim Gaffigan.