Good morning, Toledo.

Positive local stories this week on The Bright Side highlighted young residents improving lawns, patriotic celebrations for America’s 250th birthday, and a growing table tennis club; the annual Maumee Glow 5K raises funds for the local senior center while a neighbor’s kidney donation gave a five-year-old girl a second chance.

On July 9, Monclova Township Public Works employees David Clark and Greg Nye helped a 14-year-old whose e-bike caught fire on Monclova Road near Clearwater subdivision; the teen was taken for hospital treatment and an investigation into lithium battery risks is underway.

Nuh Apology is a new Jamaican restaurant serving authentic flavors at 4224 Airport Highway across from Swan Creek Preserve Metropark.

Owner Rick Ricketts, a former Army man, & his wife Kay serve dishes like ackee and saltfish and plan to add desserts and breakfast soon.

Toledo enjoys literary events this week as E M Anderson will celebrate The Lord of the Wood at Gathering Volumes in Perrysburg on July 21 at 6:30 p.m. and Main Library hosts author talks on July 16, 18 and 22—tickets are required for library sessions.

Toledo muralist Dean Davis finished his 8th project this year, a mural that honors veterans beneath the Veterans' Glass City Skyway Bridge, adding to his 40+ public art pieces produced in recent years.

The work aims to uplift local spirits and celebrate the city's history.

Local art events fill town + Owens Community College’s gallery hosts its Artist in Residence Exhibition through July 31, the Monarch Grief Center unveils a 7x7 ft butterfly sculpture, and the University of Toledo holds an outdoor art market on July 26.

A sunset cruise mural tour runs on July 23.

The Village of Walbridge is building a new nature preserve near East Broadway Street and Walbridge Road that will feature a half-mile grass walking path for outdoor recreation (led by Mayor Ed Kolanko and the Wood County Engineer’s Office).

A parasitic infection called cyclosporiasis was reported on Jul.

10 and is spreading in the Midwest, with Toledo health officials monitoring the outbreak and advising residents to take precautions. The infection is emerging as a local health concern.

Local high school soccer star Yasmine Metawa, 15, was chosen to bear the Ghana flag at a World Cup match in Boston after applying through her McDonald’s job.

The Anthony Wayne sophomore waved the flag during England vs. Ghana, marking an unforgettable experience with top players.

Toledo Collegiate Club Football will open its 2026 season on Sunday, Sept.

20 at the Glass Bowl against Cinci United. Founded in 2020, the team plays full-contact games using the NCAA rulebook and offers $7 tickets.

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.

Gwinnett Stripers vs. Toledo Mud Hens

7:00-8:05 p.m. — Fifth Third Field — $40 — Enjoy an evening of baseball, food, and camaraderie during Margaritaville Weekend.

Toledo Urban Musicfest

Festival Time — Promenade Park — Ticket prices vary — Experience the best of urban music from R&B to Gospel at this lively festival.

Sunset and City Lights Cruise

8-10 p.m. — J&M Cruise Lines - The Sandpiper — Pizza and beverages provided — Experience a stunning sunset and downtown Toledo's lights on a relaxed evening cruise.

Karaoke Night

8 p.m. — Georgjz419 Food, Fun, & Spirits — No cover — Sing your heart out at Toledo's lively Karaoke Night with DJ Ang.

14th Annual Sylvania Pizza Palooza

5-11 p.m. — Centennial Terrace & Quarry — $8 for adults, free for children 11 & under — Experience a pizza lover's paradise with local vendors and live entertainment.

Sylvania Pizza Palooza – Day 2

5-11 p.m. — Centennial Terrace & Quarry — $8 for adults, kids 11 & under free — Enjoy a pizza paradise with live entertainment and family-friendly activities.