TCP June 2026

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MARKETPLACE CHANGES

„ Toledo’s Stubborn Brother Pizza Bar is opening a second location at 425 S. Main St. in Ann Arbor.

„ Inside Hollywood Casino, 1968 Miami St., Shake Shack will be opening in the space previously occupied by Take 2 Grill.

„ Doc Martin’s Remedy Shoppe and Apothecary, is opening in the Hensville District, 12 N. Clair St., featuring a full-service pharmacy, on-site medical and dental clinics, behavioral health services and an ice cream parlor. The new apothecary is affiliated with Neighborhood Health Association.

„ The Diocese of Toledo’s new Pastoral Center, located at 2500 Collingwood Boulevard in Toledo’s Old West End, is a new facility situated at the corner of Delaware Ave. and Collingwood Blvd across from Our Lady, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary Cathedral. The Toledo-Lucas County Health Department will take over the old building, 1933 Spielbusch Ave.

By Steven E. Sloan

„ Franklin Park Mall, 5001 Monroe St., is adding six new stores, introducing brands like Urban Planet, OFFLINE by Aerie, MJ Diamonds, Gold & Diamond, Bella’s Boutique & Gifts and Piercings N More.

„ Sarnie’s Deli, returns Downtown in the former Fowl & Fodder space, 614 Adams St. serving soup, salads and sandwiches.

„ Finders Records, reopening under new ownership, Broc Curry, at 128 N Main St., Bowling Green. Curry also owns Your Media Exchange stores in Toledo and Ann Arbor along with The Clazel Theatre in Bowling Green.

„ Gardner White, the chain furniture and mattress retailer based in Michigan has opened a new store at 1301 E. Mall Dr., in Holland.

„ American Crafted Furniture, created by Archbold Furniture and Norwalk Furniture, opened a new store in Holland located at 6639 Airport Hwy.

„ The BG Community Market, Woodland Mall 1234 N. Main St., is open Tuesday evenings from 4-7pm featuring local produce, meat, dairy, baked goods, coffee and other artisanal products.

„ The Town Center at Levis Commons in Perrysburg, currently owned by Hill Partners Inc. has been sold to retail giant Tanger, marking a new chapter for the popular open-air shopping destination.

„ Toledo Farmers’ Market The Wednesday market is now located at Franklin Park Mall, 5001 Monroe St. in the Sylvania Ave. lot. 2-6pm

„ K&B Thrift Stores and Two Blondes with Junk in the Trunk opened a new shared storefront 509 Main St., Toledo.

„ Ready to Party, is a new party story located at 3131 W. Sylvania Ave. The store offers custom balloon decor, party supplies, backdrop printing, custom T-shirts, helium services and balloon art.

„ The Heights, 444 N Summit St. located inside the Renaissance Toledo Downtown Hotel, has reopened.

„ The Wheelhouse by Ernest Brew Works is now open at the Metroparks Beach Ridge Area in Oak Openings Preserve, 3520 Waterville Swanton Rd., offering craft beer, drinks coffee, refreshments and snacks. CLOSED

„ Magic Wok, at 2040 W. Laskey Rd. and 5145 Monroe St. have permanently closed.

„ Bar145 has closed their doors at 5305 Monroe St. after 15 years.

„ Caninballz Indoor Dog Water Park, 4256 Secor Rd., has closed.

Glass City Riverwalk Expands Boater Access Along Maumee River

The Glass City Riverwalk boating season now includes 46 public day-use boat slips along the Maumee River, giving boaters direct access to Downtown Toledo’s parks, trails and events.

Free Legal Clinics for Criminal Record Sealing

The Toledo Bar Association Pro Bono Legal Services Program hosts a series of free legal clinics focused on criminal record sealing for eligible individuals in Lucas and Wood counties. One on one meetings provide attorney assistance to determine eligibility and to help prepare court documents. Registration is required, no walk-ins will be accepted. Individuals with pending criminal charges are not eligible. Clinics will be held at the ProMedica Ebeid Center, 1806 Madison Ave., in the second-floor conference room on Tuesdays, May 12, July 14, September 8 and November 10 from 2–3:30pm. To register, call the Legal Aid Line at 419-724-0460 or visit legalaidline.org

Eats & Beats Food Truck Tuesday Set for Waterville

Conrad Park in Waterville will host Eats & Beats Food Truck Tuesday on June 9 from 5:30-8pm. Free, family-friendly evening of food, music and activities. 800 Michigan Ave.

Old Orchard Garden Tour Returns June 14

The Old Orchard neighborhood will host its annual Garden Tour on June 14 from 10am–5pm.

This self-guided event features six unique gardens, offering a look at creative outdoor spaces in one of Toledo’s most historic areas. Tickets are $10, with proceeds supporting neighborhood beautification. oldorchardgardens.org

The City of Toledo received a $571,342 grant through the Ohio Brownfield Remediation

Program

This grant will be used to fund asbestos abatement and demolition of the former Toledo-Lucas County Regional Health District building downtown. The 73 year old structure will be razed and will be prepared for future redevelopment. The award is part of Governor Mike DeWine’s statewide $61 million brownfield initiative supporting 160 projects. Toledo has secured significant brownfield funding since the program launched in 2021 statewide.

CITY POLITICS

Talking trash

Cost of living in City Politics

By Johnny Hildo

The votes are in, the decisions are made. The trash talk should be done. Except that it’s probably not. Huh?

Let us break it down. Toledo City Council recently approved two major changes for city residents. One is intended to fix the damn trash. The other to fix the damn roads.

And both will hit ya where it hurts — In the damn wallet.

Garbage in, garbage out

First, the trash. The city contract with current provider Republic Services is up this summer. Wade sent surveys and had public meetings and got proposals. And then he asked council to approve a contract with a new provider, Priority Waste.

Council said, wuh, what? Priority is non-union and its proposal was supposedly more expensive. Not so fast, said Wade. They gots better technology and will provide better service, especially for bulk pick up.

No, you, not so fast, said Council. They sent the proposal to committee and held a hearing. Meanwhile, Republic said, better technology? Better service? We can do that. Why they haven’t to date was not addressed.

So we’re back to Republic, with a shiny new contract approved by Council. Including GPS tracking, pick-up cameras to document service, and a blight team to handle pesky set outs. Set outs are when landlords pile tenants’ belongings at the curb after eviction. Where the rain and wind turns the pile into a rotting strewn morass. Eliminating these eyesores would be delightful. And we’ll believe it when we see it.

And it’ll cost ya. Fees are going up significantly, set to nearly double by twenty twenty-eight. Use the GPS to track your dollars as they fly to One Guvmint Center.

Then there’s the roads. The moonscape, pockmarked, pothole infested city streets.

You may recall Wade proposed an increase to the income tax rate not long ago and dedicated it to road repair. Voters approved the increase. Problem solved!

Not so fast, said Wade. It’s good, but it’s not enough. So Wade sent a proposal to Council to increase the City’s portion of license plate fees from twentyfive dollars to thirty. The extra fiver will add another one million plus dedicated to road repair. Problem solved!

No, you not so fast, said Council. They sent this proposal to committee, too, and held a hearing.

This time, though, Council decided it’s all good in the neighborhood and approved the increase.

Lessee. A massive increase in garbage fees. A twenty percent increase in license fees.

Okay, Wade, listen up. We better not see one scrap of trash, not one single cigarette butt, anywhere across our fruited plain. And the streets better be paved with gold.

See? We warned ya. While Council may be done talking trash, our trash talking here in the City Politics column has just begun. Believe it.

As the weather heats up, look close to home when it comes to summer activities. With numerous outdoor activities to do around Northwest Ohio, there is also indoor enjoyment with that cool A/C for hot or rainy days. Northwest Ohio has Summer Fun for everyone.

Find Relaxation at the Norma Stark Memory Garden & Labyrinth

Nestled in a neighborhood in Perrysburg, the Norma Stark Memory Garden & Labyrinth is a hidden sanctuary. Step in to find peace and healing or a quiet place for prayer and meditation. Located at 345 W South Boundary St., Perrysburg and open year-round from dawn to dusk, the space is for everyone.

At the entrance to the labyrinth, guests are greeted by a triquetra, a symbol for holiness, purity and innocence. At the center of the labyrinth, you can find a sculpture of a 13-chambered nautilus. The sculpture follows the golden spiral, a symbol found in nature, showcasing proportional growth.

While the space is open daily to be used as a way to escape reality, there are events happening throughout the summer. On Saturday, July 11, at 11am, join Monarch Grief Center in a butterfly release to honor loved ones. After a moment of remembrance and reflection, guests are invited to light refreshments and meaningful conversation. All proceeds from the event will go to Monarch Grief Center.

On July 18, the garden and labyrinth will be hosting their “Celebrate the Garden and Labyrinth” event. More information will be available at a later date, on their website or by calling 419-410-2496.

Learn more about the meaning behind the garden and labyrinth at normastarklabyrinth.org

Take

a Step Back in Time at Sauder Village

Have you ever wanted to see what it was like to be a student in the 1840s?

See what life was like on a farm in the 1870s? Or step inside a church and a newspaper office from the early 1900s?

You can do all this at Sauder Village.

From 1803 to 1920, Sauder Village encapsulates history with an immersive experience. Whether you’re looking for a day trip or a weekend getaway, Sauder Village has everything you need; artisan shops, historic buildings, homestyle dining, lodging and more. It’s more than just a historical village; it is also a destination for a longer stay at the Heritage Inn or the campground. Both in walking distance to the Barn Restaurant and the Doughbox Bakery.

This summer is a special milestone for Sauder Village as it turns 50 years old. On Sunday, June 14, make your way to Archbold and travel back in time to the 1970s. In honor of the milestone, admission into the village is only $3, the price it was 50 years ago, make an assortment of crafts, learn (or relearn) 70s slang and learn about the early days of Sauder Village.

Sauder Village is open Wednesday to Saturday from 10am-5pm during the summer at 22611 State Route 2, Archbold.

For more information on events, hours and the Historic Village, go to saudervillage.org

Discover Small-Town Charm and Big Adventures in Northwest Ohio

Looking for a getaway filled with scenic countryside, unique shopping, delicious local dining and family-friendly fun? Nestled in Northwest Ohio, Fulton County offers the perfect mix of relaxation, recreation and smalltown hospitality.

Whether you’re planning a weekend road trip or just looking for a new place to explore, Fulton County has something for everyone. From charming downtowns and local boutiques to outdoor adventures and seasonal festivals, every stop offers a chance to slow down and enjoy the experience.

Spend the afternoon exploring local parks and trails, paddle along peaceful waterways or discover hidden gems in communities like Wauseon, Archbold, Swanton and Delta. Enjoy hometown restaurants, fresh baked treats and local events. Fulton County is also home to unique attractions like Sauder Village, artisan shops, golf courses and family farms that showcase the area’s rich heritage and welcoming spirit.

If you’re ready to plan your next adventure close to home, Visit Fulton County is your guide. For events, attractions, dining and trip ideas, visit visitfultoncounty.com.

Visit Rossford Convention & Visitors Bureau

Looking for something fun to do close to home? The Rossford Convention & Visitors Bureau is your one-stop resource for everything Rossford. Whether you’re planning a weekend outing or just exploring what’s happening around town, Visit Rossford has something for everyone. VisitRossfordOhio.com

Stroll the Street takes place every Tuesday from 4:30–7:30pm, now-August 11, in Downtown Rossford and the Edward Ford Memorial Park. Bring the kids for games, crafts and family-friendly activities. StrollTheStreet.com

The 2026 Rossford Balloon & Fireworks Fest - America 250, happening July 17–19, features colorful hot air balloons, tethered balloon rides, pyro-musical fireworks and a drone show. The festival takes place at the southeast corner of Crossroads Parkway and Bass Pro Boulevard. RossfordBFF.com

Celebrate summer at Rossford Riverfest on August 15 from 5–11pm at Veterans Memorial Park, 300 Hannum Ave, with live entertainment, food trucks, local vendors, a beer tent, family activities and a fireworks finale along the riverfront. Rossfordba.com/rossford-riverfest/

PATIO GUIDE

Patio season that changes the pace of a city. Dinner stretches a little longer, happy hour turns into sunset cocktails and outside tables feel like the place to be. Across Toledo, restaurants are creating outdoor spaces that go far beyond a few tables on the sidewalk offering live music, lawn games, craft cocktails, fire pits, shaded escapes and vibrant downtown energy. This patio guide rounds up standout spots for dining all season long.

Leandro’s Mexican Restaurant is the perfect downtown Toledo spot to grab some food and a drink before heading to a Mud Hens game. Known for its authentic Mexican options like quesabirra, esquite, street tacos and tortas, they also have classics like chimichangas and quesadillas. Along with great food, they serve margaritas from a tried and true family recipe. Leandro’s also has a dog-friendly patio space with umbrellas. Start your meal with guacamole made fresh per order and end with tres leches cake made in-house. You can take your margarita to go in a DORA cup, perfect for a night in the city.

Inside the Five Brewing Co. host popular Northwest Ohio brewpubs known for culinary-inspired craft beer, elevated pub fare and vibrant outdoor gathering spaces. Each location offers a unique patio experience, from the Sylvania location’s expanded open-air bar and live music stage, to the cozy fire tables in Perrysburg, and the spacious outdoor entertainment area at Toledo’s Fieldhouse near the University of Toledo Campus. Guests can enjoy food trucks, lawn games, casual seating and relaxing social spaces designed for both dining and hanging out with friends.

Happy Hour specials include $5 pours of core beers, $2 off cocktails, $1 off beertails and half-off bottles of wine. Live music takes place Thursday through Saturday at all three locations. Signature favorites include the T-Town Lager, Devil Wears Hoodies IPA, Loaded Queso and Jalapeño Bacon Balls. All patios offer both sunny and shaded seating, are dog and kid-friendly with a fun, welcoming atmosphere for all ages.

PHOTOS BY: KELLI MILLER

Ventura’s is a long-standing local favorite known for its Mexican cuisine, award-winning margaritas and welcoming atmosphere. Popular for family dinners, group outings and casual lunches, the restaurant serves Tex-Mex classics like tacos, burritos and its signature Cajun Chicken Super Nachos on flour chips. Guests can also enjoy the musttry Italian Margarita while relaxing on the intimate patio, surrounded by natural landscaping and shaded umbrellas. Located on the east side of the restaurant, the patio offers full sun earlier in the day with more shade later in the afternoon and accommodates up to 35 guests. Ventura’s also offers daily happy hour food and drink specials from 2–6pm. The patio is kid-friendly, though dogs are not permitted.

Forest View Lanes offers much more than bowling, combining scratch-made dining, craft beer, sand volleyball, arcade games and expansive outdoor entertainment spaces in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere. Guests can enjoy two unique patio experiences: a covered, climate-controlled dining patio seating approximately 70 guests and a large outdoor recreation patio accommodating more than 300 people. The covered patio overlooks the volleyball courts and features adjustable walls for year-round comfort, while the outdoor area includes fire pits, yard games, outdoor TVs, foosball, cornhole, table tennis and more.

Happy Hour specials run Monday through Friday from 11am- 6pm, with additional weekly specials and late-night deals. Live music begins this summer on Friday and Saturday nights, alongside volleyball leagues and seasonal events. Popular menu items include Carne Asada Tacos and Stromboli, while the Bright & Sunny Martini remains a guest-favorite drink. The patio is both dog-friendly and family-friendly.

Enjoy patio season at Mi Hacienda Mexican Restaurant, where authentic Mexican cuisine, refreshing margaritas and a relaxed outdoor atmosphere create the perfect summer dining experience. The pet-friendly patio seats up to 30 guests and is ideal for happy hour, family dinners or casual nights out.

Guests can enjoy tacos, fajitas, enchiladas and daily food and drink specials, including Happy Hour Monday through Saturday from 2-6pm. Weekly entertainment includes Wednesday Bingo, Saturday Karaoke and Sunday Bingo. Mi Hacienda also offers a weekday lunch buffet, pool table and party room in a welcoming family-friendly setting.

Ye Olde Durty Bird

Ye Olde Durty Bird is a locally owned gastropub located inside a historic 1867 building in Downtown Toledo, directly across from Fifth Third Field. Known for its elevated comfort food and energetic atmosphere, it’s a favorite destination for game days, casual dining and outdoor gatherings. The spacious patio accommodates approximately 50 guests and features string lights, fire elements, table umbrellas and a lively downtown vibe that makes it a popular warm-weather hangout.

The patio is both dog-friendly and family-friendly, offering full sun seating with shaded table umbrellas for comfort. Happy Hour runs Monday through Friday from 3–6pm, and while patio reservations are not accepted due to changing weather conditions, guests are welcome to stop by and enjoy the atmosphere. Must-try favorites include the flavorful Lamb Sliders and the refreshing Frozen Miami Vice cocktail. Open daily from 11am8pm, Ye Olde Durty Bird delivers classic gastropub favorites in a fun, welcoming setting.

6975 Central Ave. | 419-540-9014 Find us on Facebook!

La Villa Real Mexican Restaurant offers authentic made-from-scratch Mexican cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere perfect for friends and family. Their newly remodeled outdoor patio accommodates up to 80 guests and features beautiful ambient lighting, solid privacy walls to reduce wind and traffic distractions and individual umbrellas at every table. The patio is both dog-friendly and kid-friendly, creating a relaxing open-air dining experience for everyone.

Happy Hour is available daily from 3-6pm and reservations are accepted upon request. Guests can also enjoy live music and special events on select occasions. Popular menu favorites include the flavorful Birria Tacos, Chicken with Rice and sizzling Fajitas. Their famous flavored Margaritas are a must-try and remain a customer favorite. Friendly staff and bilingual service in both English and Spanish help make every visit enjoyable and welcoming for all guests. La Villa Real

Maumee Bay Brewing

Located inside The Oliver House, Maumee Bay Brewing Co. is Toledo’s oldest craft brewery, known for its historic charm, house-made beers and welcoming atmosphere. The brewery’s enclosed courtyard patio offers a cozy, dog-friendly space with greenery and heaters for yearround enjoyment, accommodating up to 50 guests.

Guests can enjoy “Hoppy Hour” Monday through Thursday from 4–6pm, half-off pints every Sunday and Monday and half-off burgers every Monday. Weekend brunch is served Saturday and Sunday from 10am–2pm, with live music on Sundays and Wednesday evenings in the connected former Mutz space. Reservations are recommended for parties of eight or more. Must-try favorites include a beer flight sampler, handcrafted burgers and the brewery’s giant pretzel, making Maumee Bay Brewing Co. a favorite downtown Toledo gathering spot.

Located in Lambertville, Michigan, AJ Doolittle’s Sports Bar & Grill is a welcoming neighborhood spot known for great food, friendly service and a fun, laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re stopping in for lunch, dinner or happy hour, AJ Doolittle’s offers something for everyone, from burgers and sandwiches to fish and chips and homemade chips that regulars rave about. Their spacious patio is the perfect place to relax with friends and family while enjoying fresh air, cold drinks and your favorite meal. Guests love the comfortable outdoor seating, making it a great destination during warm weather for casual dining or watching the game. With daily food and drink specials, including domestic drafts, margaritas, wine and mixed drinks, the patio becomes a lively gathering place throughout the week. AJ Doolittle’s combines excellent service, quality food, and a welcoming patio experience that keeps customers coming back again and again.

DORA

Rosies Italian Grille

Rosie’s Italian Grille offers a truly unique patio dining experience, featuring a serene koi pond, tropical plants, fountains and beautifully landscaped gardens that create a relaxing outdoor escape. Guests can enjoy plenty of sunshine with umbrellas available for shade, making the patio comfortable throughout the day. The atmosphere is enhanced by regular live music performances, adding to the restaurant’s vibrant yet tranquil ambiance. In addition to traditional outdoor seating, Rosie’s also features enclosed four-season patio spaces so diners can enjoy the signature patio experience year-round. Happy Hour daily from 3–6pm at the bar top, making it the perfect place to unwind with friends or family. A must-try menu favorite at Rosie’s is the smoked fish dip, a popular dish that perfectly complements the restaurant’s inviting atmosphere.

606 N. McCord Rd | rosiesitaliangrille.com419-866-5007

Georgjz 419

Georgjz419 is an LGBTQ+ establishment bringing food, drinks and entertainment to everyone in the area. Serving bar food, specialty pizzas and an assortment of salads, Georgjz419 has something for your entire group. They have specials on food and drinks that change daily, so there’s always something to look out for.

Georgjz419 also has a dog-friendly outdoor patio with full bar service, so you can spend your entire night in the warm summer air. Along with food and drinks, Georgjz419 also holds a ton of events like variety shows, cosplays, karaoke, trivia and fundraisers for everyone’s entertainment. Most events at Georgjz419 are 21+, but pay attention to their social media pages because some are 18+. If you want to sit outside with a cocktail and watch a performance, Georgjz419 is the place for you.

Rosaria’s on Third Street in Downtown Perrysburg offers a hidden-gem patio experience with a modern coastal-inspired atmosphere and lush tropical plants that create a warm, inviting setting. The patio features an open-air bar, comfortable lounge seating and a live music stage, giving guests the perfect mix of energy and relaxation. There is plenty of sunshine with umbrellas available for shade, making outdoor dining comfortable throughout the day. Guests can also enjoy Happy Hour daily from 3–6pm at the bar top. With both open-air seating and enclosed fourseason patio spaces, Rosaria’s delivers a year-round outdoor dining experience. For the full Rosaria’s experience, be sure to try the refreshing Gazpacho and pair it with the signature Hibiscus Pineapple Margarita, a vibrant cocktail that perfectly complements the restaurant’s coastal-Italian inspired vibe.

135 W. Third St., Perrysburg | 567-898-2121 rosariason3rd.com

DORA

DORA

Since 1955, Loma Linda has been a family tradition, serving Mexican food to the greater Toledo area. The restaurant is well-known for its nachos, burritos that follow family recipes and an assortment of tacos. Happy hour is Tuesday through Thursday from 3-6pm and they have lunch specials each day they’re open from 11am-3pm.

Loma Linda also hosts musicians, DJs and even musicians on its uncovered patio. At Loma Linda, you can choose to get tan in the sun with a margarita in hand, or sit in the shade with a warm breeze hitting you. The colorful atmosphere at Loma Linda is the perfect place to invite summer back to northwest Ohio. mainstreetventuresinc.com

Sidelines Sports Eatery & Pub is the perfect place to grab some food and a drink and watch the game with friends. Known for their extensive menu that includes their ‘fowl balls’ chicken tenders, steak burgers, pizzas and more, Sidelines has something for everyone. They have a happy hour Monday through Friday from 2-5pm, daily specials and run ‘late night eats’ from 8:30pm-close where multiple menu items are on sale. They also have a seasonal drink menu, so you can get something perfect for the weather.

Sidelines’ Maumee location also has a dog-friendly covered patio, so you can enjoy the outside in any weather. The Maumee location also hosts trivia nights on Wednesdays and Fridays, where over 100 people compete. Grab a seasonal cocktail and sit in the breeze at Sidelines.

Lupita’s Cantina

Mainstreet Ventures is a restaurant group behind a collection of wellknown dining destinations, including The Chop House, Real Seafood Co., Ciao! and Zia’s. Each concept offers its own distinct atmosphere, from upscale steakhouses to casual Italian and fresh seafood experiences, all centered on quality ingredients and polished hospitality. Many of their restaurant locations feature outdoor patio spaces, ideal for seasonal dining. Guests can expect comfortable seating, thoughtfully landscaped surroundings and in select locations, features like shade umbrellas, fire elements or heaters.

Lupita’s Cantina, part of the family-owned Cocina de Carlos restaurant group, has served fresh, scratch-made Mexican cuisine to the Toledo area since 2004. Located in the heart of downtown Perrysburg, the restaurant offers a vibrant yet cozy patio experience that feels like a relaxing escape. The beautifully lit, partially covered brick patio seats up to 50 guests, with expanded capacity up to 80 during downtown events and renovations. Guests enjoy live music on the patio, the popular Thursday farmers market atmosphere and a lively downtown energy perfect for date nights, family dinners or drinks with friends.

The patio is both dog-friendly and kid-friendly, with umbrellas and partial covering for sun protection. Must-try favorites include the tacos, ceviche, refreshing margaritas and local beers. With one of Ohio’s largest tequila and mezcal selections, Lupita’s Cantina delivers authentic cantina vibes with a modern touch.

209 Louisiana Ave., Perrysburg 419-963-4611 cocinadecarlos.com

Weekly Summer Farmers Market Series

Spend your week exploring farmers markets, running all summer long with fresh local produce and handmade goods at every stop. Shop the evening bustle at the Sylvania Farmer’s Market at Olander Park, Tuesdays from 4-7pm, Uptown Maumee Farmers’ Market Wednesdays 4-8pm, and the Downtown Perrysburg Farmers’ Market, Thursdays 4-8pm or enjoy a Wednesday afternoon visit to the Toledo Farmers’ Market at Franklin Park Mall (Sylvania Ave side) from 2-6pm.

through Sunday

Cursed! The Power of Magic in the Ancient World

TMA explores ancient magic from Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece and Rome featuring rare artifacts from the Louvre, the British Museum and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. 2445 Monroe St. Toledomuseum.org

Sunday

Darius Rucker at the Toledo Zoo

THURSDAY

Country star Darius Rucker brings his signature sound to the Toledo Zoo Amphitheatre for an evening of live music under the stars. Enjoy a summer night filled with chart-topping hits and country talent in a unique outdoor venue. Tickets $40-$350. Thursday, June 4, 7pm. Toledo Zoo Amphitheater, 2700 Broadway St. bandsintown.com

Old Orchard Garden Tour

Stroll through six gardens during this self-guided tour in Toledo’s historic Old Orchard Neighborhood. Garden hosts will be on hand throughout the day to share gardening tips and inspiration. Tickets $10. oldorchardgardens.org

Friday

7th Annual Toledo’s Juneteenth Celebration

Features live music, cultural performances, art installations, storytelling, food trucks, Black-owned vendors and family-friendly activities. Glass City Metropark, 1505 Front St. Find more info on Facebook!

Saturday

Toledo Night Market

Friday & Saturday, Mills Trophy Race and Party

Watch sailors take on Lake Erie in this annual overnight race from Toledo Harbor to Put-in-Bay. The event concludes with a dockside celebration in Downtown Put-in-Bay. Lake Erie & South Bass Island. MillsTrophyRace.com

5 14 5 19 20 30 24 5-6

Spend a summer evening shopping, eating and exploring at Toledo Farmers’ Market during this open-air twilight market featuring more than 85 local artisans and small businesses. Toledo Farmers’ Market, 525 Market St. toledonightmarket.com

Holland Strawberry Festival

Weekly - Thursdays, Lunch at Levis

Downtown Toledo’s Levis Square hosts live music, local food trucks, lawn games and themed weekly entertainment with performances from regional artists. 285 N. St. Clair St. LevisCommons.org

FRIDAY

Denny Schaffer Disco Party

Hosted by longtime Toledo radio personality Denny Schaffer, the annual Downtown party features retro hits, costumes and dancing. Hensville Park, Monroe St. & N. St. Clair St. hensvilletoledo.com

Enjoy strawberry pies, shortcakes and milkshakes, along with carnival rides, food trucks, live entertainment, a parade, car show and family-friendly activities. 7807 Angola Rd. holland-strawberryfestival.com

Wednesday

Paddle & Groove

Handmade Moments –Music on the Maumee

Live music from Handmade Moments performs from a pontoon boat as you paddle alongside by kayak or canoe $45 kayak rental; $15 bring your own. 6 - 7:30 pm. Maumee River. events. humanitix.com/paddle-and-groove-handmademoments

Thursday

27-28 17-21 25 Wednesday-Sunday

Aaron Lewis – Centennial Terrace –Known as the Grammy-nominated frontman of Staind and a successful country artist, Lewis blends raw storytelling with acoustic country-rock songs. 5773 Centennial Rd. centennialterrace.org

Saturday & Sunday

6

SATURDAY

Bark in the Park

Join the Toledo Humane Society for the 41st annual Bark in the Park at Blueberry Fields Dog Park. This family-friendly fundraiser features a 5K run, 1-mile dog walk, adoptable pets, games, food and activities for animals. 3364 King Rd.

The Toledo Festival of the Arts

The Toledo Artist Club and Gallery presents a new chapter in the region’s fine arts legacy featuring more than 175 local and regional artists. Toledo Botanical Garden, 5403 Elmer Dr. toledoartistclub.com.

Tuesday

Chicago –Chicago brings its iconic sound to the Toledo Zoo & Aquarium Amphitheatre. With more than five decades of hits like “25 or 6 to 4,” “Saturday in the Park,” and “You’re the Inspiration.” 2 Hippo Way. gotickets.com. Toledozoo.com

53rd Annual Old West End Festival

Celebrate the historic district during this two-day neighborhood festival featuring live music, food vendors, shopping, house tours and a beer garden. The weekend kicks off with the colorful King Wamba Carnival Parade. OldWestEndFestival.com

SATURDAY & SUNDAY

6-7

SUNDAY

7

Toledo Guitar Show

Browse guitars, musical instruments and gear at this all-day expo and swap meet at The Stranahan. 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd.

Toledo Police Museum’s Cops and Rodders Car & Bike Show Cruise over to Ottawa Park for this popular annual showcase of classic cars, custom builds and motorcycles hosted by the Toledo Police Museum. Enjoy live music, food trucks, raffle prizes, museum tours and a family-friendly day celebrating automotive cultureand local history. 2201 Kenwood Blvd. ToledoPoliceMuseum.com

SUNDAY

7

Thursday–Sunday

11-14

metroparkstoledo.com

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THURSDAY

Art Loop: Starburst

The Toledo Arts Commission presents Art Loop: Starburst, an evening celebration of public art, creativity, and connection along the Glass

11

Thursday

What’s your hang-up? It’s this calendar. Hang this up for months long fun!

11-13

Cork and Pork – An evening of food, drinks and live entertainment at Centennial Terrace. Guests can enjoy tastings from local restaurants, casino-style games. Live music from Skittle Bots, all benefiting Ronald McDonald House. Centennial Terrace, 5773 Centennial Rd. ronaldmcdonaldhouse.org

Whitehouse Cherry Festival

Watershed Weekend

transforms Toledo’s downtown riverfront into a four-day celebration of art, music, wellness and outdoor recreation along both sides of the Maumee River.

Celebrate the annual Whitehouse Cherry Festival throughout Whitehouse. This community tradition features live entertainment, local vendors, family activities, food, a parade and plenty of cher ry-themed fun for all ages. Villageof Whitehouse on Facebook for more info.

12-13

Friday & Saturday 11th Annual Polish Summer Picnic

A two-day celebration of polka music and food at Oak Shade Grove. Enjoy live performances from Polish bands and entertainment. 3624 Seaman Rd. tapspolkas.com

TECHLEDO The Ribbon and Toledo riverfront transforms into an electronic

JUNECity

CULINARY EVENTS

WED, June 3

Sweet Tea & Sunshine:

A Southern Picnic on the Patio

A cozy night on the patio with Southern comfort food and shared conversation. $64.65. 6-8:30pm. Cork & Knife Provisions, 224 S. Erie St. corkandknifeprovisions.com

WED, June 10

Tex-Mex Pop-Up Lunch at Cork & Knife Provisions

Enjoy a flavorful midday treat at the Tex-Mex PopUp Lunch. 11am-2pm. Cork & Knife Provisions, 224 S. Erie St. corkandknifeprovisions.com

FRI, June 12

Wine Tastings at Toledo Zoo

Un-wine-d at the Toledo Zoo wine tasting events featuring global wines, scenic settings, hors d’oeuvres, and live music for guests 21 and over. Ticketed. $60. 7pm. The Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way. toledozoo.org

SUN, June 14

Canning Basics: Learning to Preserve Food at Home

Learn the basics of safe water bath canning complete with hands-on instruction, take-home samples and helpful food preservation resources. Registration required. $40. Just Toledo, 909 Jefferson Ave. justtoledo.net

THUR, June 18

Registry Bistro Craft

Cocktail Workshop

Enjoy a full hands-on cocktail experience where you’ll learn the history of a featured drink, practice mixing techniques, and enjoy light nibbles and snacks in a relaxed setting. Reservations are required. $40. 6pm. Registry Bistro, 144 N. Superior St. registrybistro.com

MON, June 22

Taste Test the Past: Dried Herbs

Join the Wood County Museum’s American 250-themed cooking series, Taste Test the Past, and discover how to grow, preserve, and craft your own herb-based spices and teas, with a sample to take home. Registration required. Free for members, $10 for nonmembers. Wood County Museum, 13660 County Home Rd., Bowling Green. woodcountyhistory.org

WED, June 24

A Korean Summer Dinner

A cozy patio evening (weather permitting) infused with Korean flavors and easy, lingering conversation. $75.36. 6-830pm. Cork & Knife Provisions, 224 S. Erie St. corkandknifeprovisions.com

FRI, June 26

Magic at the Table:

A Mediterranean Dinner Experience

Experience an immersive evening of dining, storytelling, and live harp music featuring a four-course ancient-inspired meal by Executive Chef Joe Felix presented alongside the exhibition Cursed! The Power of Magic in the Ancient World. Ticketed. $117-$180. 6-830pm. Toledo Museum of Art GlasSalon, 2444 Monroe St. toledomuseum.org

LINE CHOW

De-Luxe Privé

Monroe Street bistro and lounge wins the gold

By Jason Webber

Luxe Privé goes for the gold. Literally.

Located on Monroe St., a few blocks east of the Toledo Museum of Art, next to the Peacock Cafe, the interior of the recently opened Luxe Prive, is filled with gold accents — from the wall decor to the gold tableware.

Regal impression

Presenting an appropriately regal first impression, the new downtown restaurant offers great food and drinks in a chic, cosmopolitan atmosphere. A welcoming bar area greets guests as they walk in with mellow R&B music, playing at a pleasant decibel level, fills the dining room. Cool modern art and neon lighting compliment the room surrounding a stage where Luxe Prive hosts karaoke on Friday evenings.

Plentiful options / thoughtful preparation

My dining companion and I ordered cocktails from a drink menu which features a signature lemon drop martini. Our server, a self-assured and composed woman named Tijuana, for a drink recommendation — she suggested a pineapple lemon drop. Feeling tropical, I took the suggestion and the concoction was delicious; not too tart, not too sweet.

Turning our attention to the food menu, we ordered fried green tomatoes, a good culinary barometer for any soul food restaurant. The tomatoes, perfectly fried in seasoned cornmeal, were served with a delicious dipping sauce, a great opening act to our meal.

I ordered an entree of Sweet Heat Ribeye Bites with macaroni and cheese and garlic butter fried rice, while my tablemate ordered Bayou Fried Catfish, macaroni and cheese and Parmesan truffle fries.

First, let’s talk about the macaroni and cheese. At Luxe Prive, it’s presented as a side dish, but as a certified mac-ncheese connoisseur, I’m here to say that this could be a main course. It’s simply perfect. Cheesy. Gooey. Not too mushy. A perfect 10.

As for the tender Ribeye Bites, they were thoughtfully cooked then tossed in a fantastic, spicy sauce that makes you wish you could take a bottle of it home. The catfish was also a standout dish, well-seasoned and flaky. A damn good catch of the day.

Making memories

Co-owner Victoria Hamilton was conversing with customers, making certain that everyone was satisfied. She related the fond memories she has of visiting the site of Luxe Prive when it was The Blueprint, many years ago. She shared that she had always wanted to open a restaurant and Luxe Prive is her opportunity. The co-owner, chef Malee Brown, operates the food truck Malee’s Hot Tamales & More.

When we requested our check, we were presented with two separate checks—one for food, one for drinks. Ms. Hamilton explained that this was part of the business arrangement with Ms. Brown–one woman runs the food side of things, the other owns the bar business. An interesting arrangement, but it works.

Luxe Prive is closed on Monday’s, but there’s always something fun and delicious going on during the rest of the week, with $2 tacos and $2 margaritas on Tuesdays. On Wednesdays, from 4-9pm, kids eat free. Thursday is City Workers Lunch, where municipal employees, downtown workers, and Jeep workers eat for $15 (bring your badge). And brunch is served on Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 2pm, with live entertainment on Sundays from noon to 2pm. On Sunday evenings, it’s a special soul food menu from 4pm to 9pm

Proudly Black-owned and operated with love and skill, Luxe Prive is a great addition to Monroe Street downtown. Luxe Prive is located at 1919 Monroe St. Find them on Facebook for hours, menu and more.

NOTES FILM REAL REEL TO

Summer Movie Nights in Toledo Parks

Enjoy free movie nights, paired with themed fun and family activities, at parks across Toledo this June. Bring lawn chairs or blankets and settle in at dusk for these neighborhood screenings.

June 4 — Enjoy the new animated film Goat at Nelson Grace Park, 1001 N Detroit Ave. — Watch the action-packed film at Inez Nash Park, 100 E Bancroft St. Movies begin at dusk. toledo.oh.gov/residents/parks

Perrysburg Movie Night on the Lawn

Pack a blanket and settle in for a laid-back summer evening under the stars as Downtown Perrysburg hosts Movie Night on the Lawn. Grab dinner or a DORA drink from a nearby restaurant before the show and enjoy them on the lawn. Saturday, June 13, 7-9 pm. Commodore Lawn, 140 E. Indiana Ave., Perrysburg. downtownperrysburg.org/community-events

Ohio Goes to the Movies: Captain America: The Winter Soldier

Experience blockbuster action with a hometown twist as Ohio Goes to the Movies brings Captain America: The Winter Soldier to Sylvania. Part of a statewide celebration highlighting Ohio’s impact on the film industry, this special screening spotlights scenes filmed in Cleveland. Bring your friends and enjoy a night of cinematic adventure. Thursday, June 18, 6 pm. Mayberry Ice Cream, 5645 Mayberry Square E., Sylvania. heritagesylvania. org/sylvania250

Glass City Screenwriters Call For Scripts

Submissions are now being accepted for the Maumee Film Festival table read. Writers can submit properly formatted pilot or short film scripts up to 30 pages in any genre through the end of June, with selections announced in July ahead of the September festival. Scripts should be emailed as PDFs to glasscityscreenwriters@gmail.com. glasscityscreenwriters.com

Sunshine Communities Featured in National TV Documentary

Actor Andy Garcia is hosting a short documentary on Sunshine Communities. The episode highlights the organization’s work supporting people with developmental and physical disabilities through housing, transportation, employment programs and community activities. Filmed at Sunshine’s Maumee campus, the documentary includes stories from residents and families about how the organization has impacted their lives. The segment is airing nationally on networks including CNBC and Fox News and will continue running over the next year.

Local Indie Filmmakers

Featured in Ohio Shorts

Local student and teacher highlighted at celebration

By Jennifer Ellison

Filmmakers across Ohio recognize ‘Ohio Shorts’ as vibrant celebration of independent creativity in art of film and animation. Now entering its 30th year at Columbus Wexner Center for The Arts, fascinating and compelling short films around the state are chosen to be featured to showcase the hard work of their creators. And every year, a fresh new faces join the table with fantastic new ideas to share. This year, two talented creators from Perrysburg and Bowling Green are being featured; Fred Muler and Daniel E. Williams.

Fred Muler – The last climate

Fred is a student currently attending Maumee Valley Country Day School where he and some of his fellow seniors made a short movie together as part of a school project. Heavily inspired by Wes Anderson, creating the movie as a tribute to him, while promoting the ideas of preservation and conservation, Fred talked about the lead-up to the actual filming process with his friends; “We had a snow day in February where it was -20 degrees and we all kind of sat down and filmed this movie over the course of an entire day.”

Daniel E. Williams –

A crack in the light

Daniel works at BGSU in the department of theatre and film where he teaches filmmaking. Daniel put together a truly memorable and unsettling short film speaking to his experience from the isolation born of the Covid-19 lock down. “That was one of the ways to attempt to explore what it felt like emotionally but doing so in a hopefully cathartic. I had several rolls of super 8 film in my freezer for several years. I don’t know what the inspiration was, but I took it out to attempt to explore what it feels like to kind of be in my house and not feel as though I can really feel comfortable and safe out of my house.”

The film is a short study in character development and relationships, taking place in a single one-room setting, focusing on a cast of four. “The idea for the film is more speculative, an idea of a single setting with characters trapped in one room. Because of their ‘imprisonment’, their confidence and relationships begin to shift until someone takes the final step outside.”

It’s a thought-provoking look into the idea that a compelling narrative can be achieved with very minimalist ideas. A whole short story can be written and driven by the thoughts, ideas and relationships of four people who may agree on some things, but disagree on others. With themes centering around conservation interwoven with complex character dynamics, Fred hopes that the film will drive home the ideas of better communication and language, leading to better systems to benefit people in the long run.

Daniel and his colleagues put together a chilling, claustrophobic experience where the footage and audio became an immersive installation. the film footage starts over every 28 minutes, interlaced with Covid briefings. It’s a truly harrowing, almost stifling experience that makes you feel very trapped. The further in you get, the more stuck you begin to feel. This was very deliberate. The film itself doesn’t offer much hope, but the hope all comes through in hindsight. The film encapsulates Daniel’s feelings in the moment, trying to find a way to deep with the emotional states of confinement, isoloation, searching for something with meaning and information in a time where it felt like everything was out of reach and nothing mattered.

“Many artists get something therapeutic from creation, trying to be productive during this period of time where there was so much uncertainty and confusion. Where do I fit in as a storyteller and artist while still creating in a way that feels true to myself and connects to my medium of choice?”

Both films are publicly available online for viewing and both come highly recommended.

wexarts.org/film-video/ohio-shorts-2026 – The Last Climate vimeo.com/1162740220 – A Crack in The Light thelantern.com/2026/05/ohios-local-filmmakerstake-center-stage-at-30th-anniversary-of-ohioshorts-saturday/

THE CROSWELL | 129 E

NOTES THEATER CURTAIN CALL

Author Dave Eggers welcomed to the Peristyle

Discussing his new novel Contrapposto

By Jennifer Kellow-Fiorini

Read the full interview online at toledocitypaper.com

Dave Eggers, award-winning writer and editor, visits the Toledo Museum of Art’s Peristyle Theater, Thursday, June 11. Eggers rose to fame from his 2000 memoir, A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius. He began his writing career with Salon.com and has been featured in The New Yorker, Esquire and The New York Times Magazine.

Eggers’ latest book, Contrapposto, is a novel about two art school students, who finds he has a talent for drawing and a girl he meets while attending art school, Olympia Argyros. She convinces him “to deface, with profound vulgarity, a popular playground,” and under her romantic spell, he complies. The book covers their sixty-five year relationship, encompassing them working together and their love affair. Eggers explains that the’s had the idea for this book since he was in his twenties. Now 56, he still felt there hadn’t been an art world book that spoke to his experience. Eggers shared his thoughts with Toledo City Paper about the book, his creative process, meeting fans and a project for young readers.

Who inspired Contrapposto and how much of it reflects your own real-life experiences?

There wasn’t any one person who inspired the book, but there are a few details that were formed by personal experience. I wanted to paint a picture of the kind of devotion it takes for two people to remain this close over six decades. There’s a kind of feral loyalty between these two that I wanted to illustrate.

What is your writing process?

I used to love working while everyone slept, but these days I surprise myself by working banker’s hours, 9 to 5. I start the day by reading. I’d been a night reader forever, but now, from about 8 - 9, I read with the morning coffee, and it starts the day infinitely better.

What do you love about books for all ages versus adult novels?

When my kids were young and we were all reading together, I was gobsmacked by the kind of profound enjoyment we got from an all-ages classic like Charlotte’s Web or Bud, Not Buddy or the Tales of Despereaux. There’s a crystal clear narrative and a command of storytelling that I think is unique to all-ages books. I was re-inspired by The Eyes and the Impossible. It was EB White and Kate Dicamillo and Christopher Paul Curtis.

You formed 826 Valenica, a nonprofit writing and tutoring center for children and young adults. How is 826 Valencia doing?

We just had a fundraising gala here in San Francisco with a bunch of students and the great Delroy Lindo and it astounded me how much the current leadership and staff have grown the organization. It started out as a neighborhood center with a staff of two. Now 826 is in every corner of the city, with a thousand volunteers and a staff of 70. These days I get to pop in on programs and occasionally bring a new book back to our International Library of Young Authors. And how is your publishing house, McSweeney’s, managing to survive the many changes in the publishing market, from AI to the collective attention deficit?

Well, it gets a little harder every year. And the people who make printed books have to be more dedicated — more vigilant and crafty. But McSweeney’s is fully committed to making beautiful, threedimensional, physical book objects, and I think our subscribers and supporters value that attention to detail and tactile pleasure in an increasingly digital and sterile media environment. I don’t think people are ever going to stop liking holding beautiful objects in their hands. and I do believe that survival of print depends on investing in making the most elaborate and sometimes ludicrously beautiful objects we can.

The Toledo Museum of Art is currently involved in reorganizing the collections in chronological order. Contrapposto also uses time and chronology as an element in the story of its protagonists. How did you think about time and chronology in writing this novel?

That sounds like a great way to organize a museum! The viewer loses track of how logically periods in art move from one to the next. I think a certain calm comes over audiences when they see something laid out, with rational linearity. I love books that do that, too — cover decades and centuries with magisterial calm. It puts the chaos of life and history into order, which is the job of writers and artists. We can’t do math, so at least we can do this.

liveartstoledo.com/events/2026/06/11/live-artstoledo/an-evening-with-dave-eggers/365/

Live From New York! Miss Maybell & Charlie Judkins

Miss Maybell and Charlie Judkins bring jazz, ragtime and blues to Tecumseh, MI, with the River Raisin Ragtime Revenue. The New York based duo, known for their vintage sound, drawing from 78 records and original sheet music, joins The River Raisin Ragtime Revenue, one of only three-year round professional ragtime orchestras in the country. Sunday, June 7, 4 pm. Tecumseh Center for the Arts, 400 N Maumee St., Tecumseh, MI. thetca. org/buytickets.html

Fiddler on the Roof –Tradition, Family and Change

Set in Anatevka, this classic musical follows Tevye, a poor milkman, as he raises his five daughters while balancing faith, family and changing traditions in Czarist Russia. Rich in humor and heartbreak, it explores the tension between heritage and change through iconic songs and powerful storytelling. Saturday, June 12, 7:30pm. The 10th Street Stage, 16 10th Street. toledorep.org

A Beautiful Noise –The Neil Diamond Musical

The story of Neil Diamond takes center stage in this high-energy Broadway tour, blending iconic hits with the deeply personal journey of a Brooklyn kid turned global superstar. Tuesday, June 16 - Saturday, June 20, 7:30pm. Saturday, June 20, 2pm. Sunday, June 21 1pm and 6:30pm. Stranahan Theater, 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd. americantheatreguild. com/toledo

Dave Eggars, discusses his new book Contrapposto on Thursday June 11th at TMA

CITY PAGES BOOK NOTES

Authors! with Natasha Lester: Main Library

The Toledo Lucas County Public Library hosts Authors! with Natasha Lester, a discussion with the bestselling author about her latest novel, The Chateau on Sunset. Hear about her writing process, career journey and the inspiration behind her feminist reimagining of Jane Eyre, set against the backdrop of Hollywood’s iconic Chateau Marmont. Thursday, June 4, 7–8pm, Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St.

Boy Garden in BloomA Bookish Gals’ Night at the Mudhens

Join Finch & Fern Book Co for a night at the Mudhens. Come hang out and watch the players warm up, make new friends, talk baseball romance stories, enjoy hot dogs and drinks and awesome social media momentsalong with a book swap and a raffle with giveaways. Saturday, June 13, 6-10:30pm. Tickets on eventbrite. 406 Washington St.

Authors! with Lindy Ryan: Main Library

The Toledo Lucas County Public Library hosts Authors! with Lindy Ryan, an evening with the award-winning horror author discussing her latest novel, Dollface. Hear about her writing process, career in horror fiction and film and the inspiration behind her suspense-filled slasher about a suburban PTA terrorized by a masked killer. Thursday, June 25, 7–8pm, Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St.

Former Jeep Union Steward Publishes First Poetry Collection

A Toledo autoworker channels working class grit and lived experience into his debut standalone poetry collection

By Jennifer Ellison

No matter the choices we make and the paths we follow, we all have dreamsgoals we set in place with the hope of fulfilling them. Daily life makes those goals difficult to attain, especially if they’re of the creative variety a but pushing through to the finish line can be so rewarding. Toledo’s own Dan Denton knows this struggle all too well and now enjoys the publishing of his first poetry book, Fight Songs for the Underdogs.

The writer

the

to keep their childrens’ bellies full and the artists who strive to unleash their souls in their works, even as their souls sufferfrom the increasing strain and hardship of keeping the lights on just to see the canvas, as it were. Denton writes what he lives and lives what he writes and the grit and refusal of traditional polish allows his work to shine in a truly authentic, relatable way, which resonates with people.

Denton formerly served as the Toledo Jeep dayshift union steward, but he’s been a longtime author for several years already, having published three acclaimed books before, as well as two novels and a unique hybrid of poetry wo ven into a novella. He’s fairly well known in the Northwest Ohio region. While modest about his accomplishments, there’s no denying that Denton has done quite a lot with his work. He’s performed across the nation reading his prose and poems to audiences, including in Chicago at the famous Green Mill Poetry Slam. Denton’s work embodies everything he knows and cherishes in life, speaking highly of and praising the strife and spirit of everyday working men and their families, the mothers who work hard

The legacy

Despite his prolific portfolio, Denton had never actually gotten around to publishing any of his poems by themselves until now. Fight Songs for the Underis published through the small independent publisher Luchador Press and encapsulates a hand-picked selection of poems Denton has composed over the years. The biggest takeaway from his accomplishment is that he’s also the first poet published by the The UAW Local 12 Union journal, making both he and his work truly unique hidden gems of the literary world. Gathering Volumes in Perrysburg is planning a book release event to commemorate the latest paperback powerhouse by Dan Denton on Saturday, October 18th at 2:30pm. Attendance is free, so all fascinated by the magic of well placed words are welcome to stop by and listen in.

Gathering Volumes in Perrysburg is planning a book release event to commemorate the latest paperback powerhouse by Dan Denton

ART TO HEART

Gray

‘Moments of Latitude’

A Dazzling Exhibit

New 20 North Gallery show highlights two talented local artists

By Jason Webber

Take mesmerizing plein air landscapes by Leslie Dietsch and combine them with psychedelic still photography courtesy of Jerry Gray, and you have one of the most fascinating art shows of the spring season, “Moments In Latitude,’ running through June 21 at 20 North Gallery in the Warehouse District.

The exhibit casts a mesmerizing spell courtesy of the two talented artists, whose respective artistic visions work in tandem with each other.

Leslie Dietsch of Erie, Michigan, a University of Toledo graduate who also studied art at Scottsdale Artist School in Arizona, with landscapes have been displayed in numerous shows across the Midwest. She is a member of the Toledo Artists’ Club and the Athena Art Society, as well as serving as Chair for the Point Place Area Art Committee.

Dietsch said she chose her paintings for “Moments in Latitude” as a way to pay homage to the Great Lakes Basin.

“The Great Lakes Basin has a light

that is completely its own, and I’ve spent years learning to see it. It sits over the water and the flatlands like a blanket. Overcast or brilliant, it shapes everything,” said Dietsch. “I wanted to bring that into the gallery. This show is part of a larger body of work. I’m exploring watersheds. This is a first iteration.”

Capturing the moment

20 North Gallery manager Anastasia Wagner praised Dietsch’s plein air approach to creating her artwork. “Leslie’s focus is capturing that moment that is in front of her. Just preserving that moment in time,” said Wagner. “Both artists are capturing moments in time and that’s what makes their work mesh so well together.”

Jerry Gray, has been a longtime fixture on the Toledo art scene and the proprietor of several art galleries in the Toledo area, such as Bozart’s, Quest For Fire Studios, and most recently, Just Jerry’s at The Switchboard. “Moments

2026 Artist in Residence Exhibition at Owens Community College

The hosts the 2026 Artist in Residence Art Exhibition June 4-July 31, showcasing local artists participating in the summer residency program. Opening reception, Thursday, June 4 from 5-7pm at the Center for Fine and Performing Arts in Perrysburg. Exhibition hours on select dates throughout the summer. owens. edu. 30335 Oregon Rd. Free.

Welcome to Waterville Mural-Downtown Mechanic Street

The Anthony Wayne Area Arts Commission is sponsoring a “Welcome to Waterville” mural to be installed on Mechanic Street, featuring imagery tied to local history and the Maumee River. The project is designed to enhance the downtown corridor as a visual gateway for traffic crossing the Waterville Bridge.

Beeswax Candle Workshop

Vod’s Here, Sewing & Crafting Emporium offers a hands-on workshop, where participants can learn the traditional art of crafting candles from natural beeswax. This beginner-friendly class covers the basics with time to customize your own candles. All materials are provided. Saturday, June 27, 2pm. 5800 Monroe St., Bldg. D, Unit 2, Sylvania. $35.

Birds, Bugs & Blooms Exhibit –Toledo Artists’ Club

The Toledo Artists’ Club will host Birds, Bugs & Blooms, a juried exhibit, open to members and non-members, running through June 30. The show invites artists to explore nature-inspired themes, highlighting flora and fauna across a variety of mediums. 5403 Elmer Dr.

in Latitude” is one of the first career retrospectives of Gray’s photography and artwork. “The works are a new collection of mono print landscapes as well as two large paintings,” said Gray. “The work itself speaks about documentation of memories and how they are capable of shifting over time.”

Wagner said the use of memories in the exhibit make both artists’ work mesh well together. “This exhibit is a wonderful look at landscapes familiar to the Great Lakes region,” said Wagner

“For Jerry’s work, he extends a little further from across the country. It’s inspired by his cross-country road trips and hikes around this area. He is creating pieces that look at our memories of spaces and, while memories aren’t always accurate, our memories influence how we perceive these points of time.”

“Leslie Dietsch and Jerry Gray: Moments In Latitude” is on display through June 21 at 20 North Gallery, 18 N. St. Clair St. For more information, including gallery hours, visit 20northgallery.com.

and Superior Driftwood (right) by Jerry

Celebrate Dad!

Sunday, June 21

FREE admission for dads accompanied by at least one child!

Optional BBQ lunch located in Malawi Event Center. Separate fee, reservations required. toledozoo.org/events/fathers-day

ZONE SPORTS Hockey rolls into Toledo this summer

A fast-paced roller league debuts at the Huntington Center

By Andrew Kersten Hockey

in Toledo is speeding up this summer, played on wheels instead of blades.

The Huntington Center transforms the arena into a roller hockey stage with speed and constant motion when the eXtreme Roller Hockey League, or XRHL, launches its inaugural season in downtown Toledo beginning July 10, bringing a new style of professional hockey to the Glass City.

For league founder and commissioner Adam Stio, the concept has been years in the making.“The sport of roller hockey got really big in the nineties, but over time, there hasn’t really been anything consistent at the professional level,” he said, adding, “We felt the sport needed more.”That idea led to Toledo becoming the league’s launch point.

ately. Roller hockey removes offsides and icing rules creating a faster, more open style of play. “It’s four-on-four, there’s a lot more possession, a lot more puck movement, and the puck is lighter, so the game moves faster,” Stio explains.

“You’re not going to be able to keep up with the puck. It’s going to be so fast, your head’s going to be turning. There’s going to be crashes, there’s going to be contact, and you never know what’s going to happen.” And yes, hockey fans rejoice, there will be fights.

Familiar names taking the floor

And it wouldn’t be Toledo hockey without a few familiar names, right? Toledo Walleye captain Brandon Hawkins has already been announced as captain of the Glass City Pain.

Stio also confirmed that former Toledo standout Shane Berschbach, recently inducted into the Toledo Hockey Hall of Fame, will be part of the league and serve as a team captain.

And Toledo hockey veteran Iain Duncan, a former Toledo Storm forward with NHL experience and a national championship from his days at Bowling Green State University, will be involved as one of the league’s coaches.

Additional players from Fort Wayne, Cincinnati, Indianapolis and other regional hockey markets are also expected to participate, along with experienced roller hockey players and athletes who have represented Team USA in international competition.

unforgettable night as we celebrate a tradition that’s been decades in the making at centennial terrace!

The pilot season will feature four Toledo-themed teams, including Glass City Pain, Ghost Frogs, Sasquatches and the Bladers. The names, selected around local ties, sport minor-league-style creativ-

According to Stio, the teams will compete across 21 dates from July 10 through Aug. 15, including 18 regular-season games and a postseason that will feature single-elimination semifinals culminating in a championship game.

More than $100,000 in prize money will also be distributed throughout the season, with players earning bonuses for wins and championship performances.

The condensed summer XRHL schedule provides another reason for fans to head to the Huntington Center throughout July and August, with many of the games scheduled around the Toledo Mud

A faster version of the game

Fans familiar with traditional ice hockey will notice the differences immedi-

Players interested in joining the league can apply through the XRHL website, with tryouts consisting of multiple games, evaluation sessions, and opportunities to test league rules. Jerseys and shirts will also be provided to participants.

Building something bigger

Toledo serves as the starting point for what Stio hopes becomes a multi-city operation. “Our concept is to create four teams this year, prove a concept, and try to grow into multiple cities next year.” The long-term plan includes gradual expansion across Midwest markets, with Toledo serving as the foundation.

At its core, Stio says the league is about accessibility and expanding hockey beyond traditional ice rinks. “You can grab a pair of roller blades, a stick and go play in your neighborhood. There’s so many different ways to play the game, and we want to help grow hockey.”

Accessibility, combined with recognizable names and fast-paced play, is what Stio hopes will resonate with Toledo fans. “We want people to come in, have a great experience, and want to come back,” he added.

Single-game and season tickets for XRHL are available on their website. xrhl.net/tickets

Adam Stio, founder and commissioner of the eXtreme Roller Hockey League.

HEAR LISTEN

Banging with the Boxmasters

An exclusive Q&A with Billy Bob Thornton and J.D. Andrew

By Jason Webber

Lots of bands take their inspiration from the ‘60s British Invasion, but The Boxmasters take it to an extreme level of fandom. This quintet of good ol’ boys from Bellflower, California takes it cue from The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Kinks and a touch of The Beach Boys and The Byrds and mixes it all up together into a frothy stew of musical excitement that’s just plain fun.

Led by Grammy Award-winning recording engineer J.D. Andrew and some guy you may have heard of named Billy Bob Thornton (though in music mode he goes by the name “Bud”), The Boxmasters play down home and old fashioned (but never creaky) rock-n-roll that stirs the soul. They’re also a prolific band—since their official founding in 2007, the group has released some 20 different albums and a 21st one is on the way this summer.

The Boxmasters will be bringing the flavor to the Valentine Theater on August 5. Toledo City Paper got J.D. and Bud on the phone to talk about rock.

Toledo City Paper: Let’s start with the very basics. What IS a “boxmaster?”

Bud: That’s a long story, but it’s, I’ll just put it this way we were looking for a name because our band is so influenced by the British invasion and by the Southern California pop records and Memphis and things like that, and so, you know, there was the Box Tops out of Memphis, you know, and so we kind of got ‘box’ from that. And remember the old RCA records where it has the dog listening to the gramophone that says his master’s voice?

TCP: Yeah, sure. Nipper the dog.

Bud: Yeah. You put ‘Box Tops’ with ‘Masters’ from that, and that’s it. It’s just got a ‘60s vibe to it and our logo looks very ‘60s like. Most of the stuff we write is really based on our love of music in the 1960s and the mid ‘70s. So, yeah, that’s the story on that, although it also has another meaning, too. We had a member of the band years ago, Mike Bruce, who passed recently and he used to call us the Boxmasters; he was doing that before we even named the band, because “boxmaster” means a different thing in the South. It’s kind of a playboy.

TCP: You both are very busy men with various careers. How do The Boxmasters manage to stay so prolific?

Bud: Well, we’ve got so many personalities, which is not always a good thing. They say a cat has nine lives, we’ve already lived about 12 apiece. So we don’t have a shortage of things to write about. There’s something about when you love songwriting, it’s like you get obsessed with it. If I’m not creating, I think too much and that’s not good for me.

J.D: Yeah, and it’s not good for me either when Billy’s not writing.

TCP: Hey, Bud, do you remember the first album you bought as a kid that made you want to play music? What was it about that album that changed your life?

Bud: Well, I started very young as a rock and roll fan and my mom listened to a lot of Elvis and stuff and she gave me the “King Creole” soundtrack album and that song “King Creole” really struck

me in. But then, what really kicked me off, just like anybody my age, was when I saw the Beatles on Ed Sullivan. I was eight years old and that was really it. So the first thing I actually bought was a 45 of “I Wanna Hold Your Hand,” which to this day is one of the most perfect pop songs ever. The Beatles were the thing for me. I also listened to a lot of the Dave Clark 5, The Kinks and The Animals. So it was really the British invasion that made me really want to do it.

TCP: What was it like working with Herb Alpert on (The Boxmasters’ latest record) ‘Pepper Tree Hill’?

MUSIC

Bud: Oh, he’s great. We used to record at A&M before we got our own studio, which we’ve had about five years. We recorded over at A&M Studios and we met Herb through Faryal Ganjehei whose been the studio manager for 25 years and they were doing a documentary on Herb and so she was talking to him a lot. The first contact I had with Herb was, I asked (Faryal) if she could get me an album signed by Herb. I said “If you can get me an album signed by Herb, I’ll follow you around like a puppy the rest of my life.” So she got me a signed CD of his Greatest Hits, but I said, “No, no, no, no. It’s got to be ‘Whipped cream and other Delights.’ It’s the LP. I need that one.” Later once I met him I said “You got to sign that record for me.” He goes, “Okay, well, I don’t know if I even got any laying around.” I said, “No, I’ll spring for it. Don’t worry.”

But he has actually played on about five or six songs with us. I mean, the guy’s 91, he’s still touring with the Tijuana Brass. Herb’s playing great, and he’s got this new band. What an honor for us to have him on there. We knew we needed horns and he said, “Yeah, just send it to me. I’m happy to.” So since then he’s done another three or four things with us. It’s not too bad when when Herb Alpert is your horn player.

TCP: Final question, gentlemen. Before a show, do you guys have any kind of pre-show ritual? Like, do you have a smoke? Do you say a prayer? Anything you do before a show every time?

J.D: Wow. It depends. It kind of changes every year. Some years, we’ll have a shot of bourbon, other years, it’d be a shot of vodka. I think last year we all, or at least me and Billy, we had a cup of coffee, and I’m trying to remember if we even had a drink before. I mean, more than likely, something, a little bit to take the nerves off, but you know, we’ve been doing this so long that it’s kind of like, all right, it’s time to go to work.

TCP: Thank you for giving me some of your time.

Bud: Well, thank you very much, Jason. Yeah, we’ve never played Toledo, so we’re looking forward to it. This is gonna be a new one.

The Boxmasters will be performing on Wednesday, August 5 at the Valentine Theatre. Tickets run $58 to $103. For more information, visit valentinetheatre.com.

Night – Local Voices, Live & Unfiltered

Local musicians perform original songs in a historic downtown venue. Acoustic sets and mixed genres highlight the region’s songwriting talent. A simple, no-cover night to hear new music and support local artists. Wednesday, June 3 and June 17, 7-10 pm. The Blarney Event Center, 39 N. Huron St.

Party in the Park: 80’s Weekend – Ms. Roper Night & Lipstick Drive

Party in the Park returns to Promenade Park with an 80’s-themed evening featuring live music from Call Me Kendra and E3C4P3. Attendees are encouraged to dress up for Ms. Roper Night and bring lipstick donations to support the drive. Free. Friday, June 5, 6pm. 400 Water St.

The Menus – Rock Covers with Stage Flair

The Menus bring decades of experience to a set of upbeat rock covers shaped by strong crowd interaction and a theatrical edge. Led by Tim Goldrainer, the band moves through familiar hits with a focus on pacing and audience engagement. Expect a mix of classic rock staples and high-energy performance moments built for a live crowd. Saturday, June 13, doors at 5:30 pm. Centennial Terrace, 5773 Centennial Rd., Sylvania. centennialterrace.org/event/the-menus-2

Venyx – High-Energy Covers Across Genres

Venyx delivers a mix of Top 40, R&B, pop and rock covers with tight musicianship and strong vocals. Lead singers Jessica Stewart and Cynthia Zachrich drive the set with a wide range of harmonies, backed by bass, guitar and drums. Saturday, June 20, 8 pm - 12 am. Toledo Sailing Club, 2701 Broadway St.

Red NOT Chili Peppers –Funk Rock Tribute Night

Red NOT Chili Peppers brings a full set of Red Hot Chili Peppers hits with a focus on groove, rhythm and stage energy. Expect a mix of funk-driven bass lines, sharp guitar work and recognizable tracks spanning multiple eras of the band. VIP table options available. Saturday, June 27, 8 pm –12 am. Hollywood Casino, 777 Hollywood Blvd. hollywoodcasinotoledo.com/entertainment

THE BIG TO DO

MON, June 1

[golf, museums]

Freighter Golf: Around the Great Lakes - Take your best shot during a month-long hole-in-one challenge aboard the historic Col. James M. Schoonmaker Museum Ship, where visitors can putt across five Great Lakes-themed greens. Mon-Sat, 10am5pm, Sun, noon-5pm. National Museum of the Great Lakes, 1701 Front St. nmgl.org.

TUE, June 2

[civic benefit]

Tenant Tuesday Free Legal Clinic - Residents facing housing challenges can receive free one-on-one legal consultations with experienced attorneys. Registration is required. Noon3pm. Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St. @cityoftoledo. Free

WED, June 3

[running]

Global Running Day 5K - Celebrate Global Running Day with a family-friendly 5K at Swan Creek Preserve Metropark hosted by the Toledo Roadrunners Club and Metroparks Toledo. Registration is required. $0-$10. 6:30 pm. Swan Creek Metropark, 4659 Airport Hwy. @toledorrrc

THUR, June 4

[parties & reunions]

The 12th Annual Celebrating Possibilities - Celebrate inclusion, achievement and community at this annual event hosted by Bittersweet Farms. 6-9pm. Bittersweet Farms, 12660 Archbold Whitehouse Rd., Whitehouse. bittersweetfarms.org

[author events] - Authors! with Natasha Lester - New York Times bestseller Natasha Lester joins Authors! to discuss her latest book, The Chateau on Sunset. $18.91. 7-8pm. Main Library, 325 Michigan St. toledolibrary.org

FRI, June 5

[visual arts]

Summer First Fridays - Hippie Fest - Celebrate summer in Sylvania with First Fridays, kicking off with Hippie Fest featuring music, art, local brews and groovy community fun in downtown. 5-8pm. Downtown Sylvania, Main St., Sylvania. rebirdsylvania.org

SAT, June 6

[fundraisers, fitness]

Workout For Wildlife - Join Nature’s Nursery and Morgan’s Fitness Solutions for Workout for Wildlife, an outdoor, allfitness-levels workout on June 6 at 11 am at Nature’s Nursery in Waterville, with water, snacks and fun for ages 16+. Registration is required. $30. 11 am. Nature’s Nursery, 7541 Dutch Rd., Waterville. natures-nursery.org

[live music]

Glass Expo 2026: Dupree’s Dead Band - Enjoy a night of live music in the Glass City as Dupree’s Dead Band and Trial by Fire featuring Dave Katz perform during the annual Glass Expo. 6pm. The Golden Road, 3560 Dorr St. goldenroadtoledo.com

SUN, July 7

[markets & shopping]

Willows & Whiskers Summer Market - Shop handmade goods and support local small businesses while helping Willow & Whiskers raise awareness and funds for FeLV+ cats. Noon-7pm. Lucas County Fairgrounds, 1406 Key St., Maumee. willowandwhiskers.org

WED, June 10

[author events]

Authors! with Jess Walter New York Times bestseller, Jess Walter joins Authors! to discuss his latest book, So Far Gone. $18.91. 7-8pm. Main Library, 325 Michigan St. toledolibrary.org

THUR, June 11

[fundraisers]

Cork & Pork - Enjoy one of Northwest Ohio’s favorite summer events at Cork & Pork, featuring great food, live music and community celebration in support of the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northwest Ohio. $50. 6-10pm. Centennial Terrace, 5773 Centennial Rd., Sylvania. centennialterrace.org

[author events]

An Evening with Dave Eggers - Award-winning bestselling author Dave Eggers presents Contrapposto, a sweeping new novel exploring friendship, love and the lifelong pursuit of art. Ticketed. $25-$65. Toledo Museum of Art | The Peristyle, 2445 Monroe St. starlitetheatergroup.org

[concerts]

Live at the Library with HuDost - Experience an inspiring evening of genre-blending folk, world and progressive rock as HuDost performs live at the Toledo Main Library. Registration is required. 6:30-8 pm. Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St. toledolibrary.org

FRI, June 12

[road biking, fundraisers]

Wheelie Good Cause Ride at Brewing GreenJoin a supported and unsupported community cycling event in Bowling Green featuring 8- and 20-mile route options through local roads and countryside, with proceeds benefiting cancer research through The Wheelie Good Cause. Registration is required. 6pm. Brewing Green, 322 N. Grove St., Bowling Green. wheeliegoodcause.org

[concerts]

Dixon’s Violin - Experience a rare evening of extraordinary live violin performance featuring breathtaking music. $32.21. 6508:15 pm. Maumee Indoor Theater, 601 Conant St., Maumee. maumeeindoor.com

SAT, June 13

[health & wellness]

Healthy Toledo Community Wellness Day - A fun-filled day of fitness activities, wellness resources, health screenings, hands-on fun, local vendors and a community barbecue. 10am-2pm. Inez Nash Park, 207 E. Bancroft St. @cityoftoledo

[tai chi]

Wellness by the Boat: Tai Chi - Enjoy a relaxing morning along the Maumee River with a free Tai Chi class presented by UToledo beside the historic Col. James M. Schoonmaker Museum Ship. 10am. National Museum of the Great Lakes, 1701 Front St. nmgl.org. Free

[civic benefit]

2026 Homeownership Fair - Gain the tools and confidence for homeownership through educational workshops on mortgages and down payment assistance, plus giveaways, food trucks and family activities at this community home-buying event. 10 am-2:30 pm. Scott High School Community Hub, 2400 Collingwood Blvd. @cityoftoledo

SUN, June 14

[drag show, brunch]

Golden Girls Tribute Drag Brunch - Enjoy a campy Golden Girls–themed drag brunch featuring high-energy performances, comedic tributes and plenty of mimosas. $27-$42. 2pm. Toledo Funny Bone, 6140 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg. toledo.funnybone.com

THUR, June 18

[craft beer, pursuits & hobbies]

Pints & Puzzles - Join Gathering Volumes at Earnest Brew Works for a fun-filled night of Pints & Puzzles featuring team puzzle competitions, drinks, prizes and bookish goodies. Registration is required. $40. 6-9 pm. Earnest brew works Westgate, 3142 Central Ave. gatheringvolumes.com

[LGBT, bars]

Coochie Fatale: Grown & Sexy Country Swang - Enjoy a grown-and-sexy night of country-inspired drag entertainment at COOCHIE FATALE, featuring performances by Shayne Nash, Cee Cee Ross, Gizelle DeVaux and Bleu Eclipse Darling with music by DJ @$!0 AVIANCE. 9 pm. Georgjz419 Food, Fun, & Spirits, 1205 Adams St. @GeorgjzToledo

FRI, June 19

[Juneteenth]

Juneteenth Celebration - Join the Wayman Palmer YMCA for a lively Juneteenth celebration featuring community, culture, music, food and activities honoring freedom and African American heritage. Noon-6 pm. Wayman Palmer YMCA, 200 E. Bancroft St. @naacptoledo

[Juneteenth]

7th Annual Toledo’s Juneteenth Celebration - Toledo’s Juneteenth Celebration will transform Glass City Metropark into an immersive cinematic journey through the Past, Present, and Future of the Black experience. 3:30-9 pm. Glass City Metropark, 1505 Front St. @Toledo’s Juneteenth Celebration

Guitar show strikes a chord at The Stranahan Guitar enthusiasts, collectors and musicians can explore a day dedicated to all things stringed at the Toledo Guitar Show, Sunday, June 7, at the Stranahan Theater Hall. Bringing together vendors, vintage instruments, gear, accessories and opportunities to buy, sell and trade, the show offers something for players of every level. Sunday, June 7, 9 am - 6 pm. The Stranahan, 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd. toledoguitarshow.com

Old West End Festival

The Old West End Festival returns for its 53rd year, transforming one of the nation’s largest historic districts into a weekend celebration of music, food, art and community. King Wamba Carnival Parade on Saturday morning. Sat–Sun, June 6–7, Toledo’s Old West End neighborhood.

Toledo Metrooarks’ Watershed Weekend June 11-14, 2026

A four-day celebration along Glass City Riverwalk marking a shared milestone for Toledo. Watershed Weekend celebrates the halfway point of the Riverwalk and invites the community to gather along the Maumee River and experience the progress together.

Watershed Weekend brings public events to both sides of the Maumee River, from art, music and outdoor recreation to community celebration along Toledo’s connected riverfront. Explore signature events and view the full weekend schedule at metroparkstoledo.com

Toledo’s Holistic Scavenger Hunt & Carnival

Join HealGrid for a citywide wellness adventure that blends exploration and celebration. Participants travel to local holistic businesses completing interactive challenges before returning for a cookout carnival featuring vendors, music, games, workshops and prizes. Sat, June 27, 11am–7pm. 7880 Central Ave. $23.

Music at the museum In Bowling Green

The Wood County Museum’s 4th annual Music at the Museum series returns with free live performances on the historic Bowling Green County Home grounds. The series begins Thursday, June 11, from 6–9 pm, with additional dates July 9, Aug. 13 and Sept. 10. Bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating. A beer garden, yard games and rotating food trucks on site. No outside alcohol permitted. Thursday, June 11, 6–9 pm. Wood County Museum. 13660 County Home Rd, Bowling Green. woodcountyhistory.org/events

Toledo Pride Bar Crawl

The Toledo Pride Bar Crawl celebrates Pride Month with a citywide bar-hopping event starting at Whiskey Red Saloon. Participants gather for an evening of drinks, music and community spirit as they move between Toledo bars, with festive Pride-themed energy throughout the night. Sat, June 20, 4–10pm. 505 Jefferson Ave. #101

Looking for a quick change of scenery and a taste of something different? Visit toledocitypaper.com or check out our sister Current magazine ( Ann Arbor), at ecurrent.com, to explore film, art, music and more!

SAT, June 6 and SUN, June 7

Motor City Pride

Celebrate Michigan’s largest pride festival and parade at Motor City Pride in downtown Detroit, featuring multiple stages of performances, hundreds of vendors, community groups, artisans and food trucks. 1pm-7pm. Hart Plaza, 1 Hart Plaza, Detroit, MI. motorcitypride.org

THUR, June 11 - SUN, June 15

Frankenuth Bavarian Festival

Celebrate Bavarian culture and community traditions at the annual Bavarian Festival, featuring ceremonies, live music, street parties, parades, family activities and classic German-inspired festivities throughout the weekend. Downtown Frankenmuth, Main St., Frankenmuth, MI. bavarianfestival.org

SUN, June 14

Sauder Village 50th Birthday Celebration

Celebrate 50 years of history at Sauder Village with a special anniversary event featuring discounted admission, 1970s-themed activities, crafts, food specials and family-friendly birthday celebrations. 7am-5pm. Sauder Village, 22611 State Route 2, Archbold, OH. saudervillage.org

SAT, June 20

[sports]

Whitehouse Multi-Sport Festival - Compete in a scenic sprint triathlon, duathlon or unique relay event at Blue Creek Metropark, featuring swimming, biking and trail running around the Nona France Quarry. Registration is required. 7:30 am. Blue Creek Metropark, 7790 Schadel Rd., Whitehouse. runtoledo.com

[history]

Fallen Timbers: Celebrating 250 years of American History - Celebrate Ohio’s role in America’s 250th anniversary by exploring a pivotal battle in U.S. history, the Native peoples who have long called the land home and the area’s lasting natural legacy. 10am-1pm. Fallen Timbers Battlefield, 4949 N. Jerome Rd., Maumee. metroparkstoledo.com. Free

[fundraisers]

The BASH - Enjoy an over-the-top evening of live music, drinks, delicious food from more than 30 restaurants and mind-blowing interactive science at this high-energy fundraising extravaganza. $125. 7pm. Imagination Station, 1 Discovery Way. .imaginationstationtoledo.org

SUN, June 21

[Father’s Day]

Father’s Day BBQ - Treat dads to a special Father’s Day BBQ with a buffet, animal demonstrations, live music and more. Tickets include Zoo admission and complimentary parking. $35-$50. 11 am-1 pm. The Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way. toledozoo.org

MON, June 22

[history, gardening]

Taste Test the Past: Dried Herbspreserve and use herbs for spices and tea blends during the Wood County Museum American 250-themed Taste Test the Past cooking series, with samples to take home. Ticketed. Free for members, $10 for non-members. 2-3 pm. Wood County Museum, 13660 County Home Rd., Bowling Green. woodcountyhistory.org

TUE, June 23

[meditation]

Community Drum CircleCircle for an evening of rhythm, connection and shared musical energy where participants of all skill levels can drum together in celebration and fun. Free for members, $10 for non-members. 7:30-8:30 pm. Pura Vida Wellness Studio, 4326 S. Detroit Ave. puravidawellnessstudio.com

THUR, June 25

[concerts]

Aaron Lewis - Experience a night of country rock as Aaron Lewis performs. Ticketed. $54-$212+. 8pm. Centennial Terrace, 5773 Centennial Rd., Sylvania. centennialterrace.org

FRI, June 26

[golf, fundraisers]

Practically Golf Open Play (Mini Golf)experience at Practically Golf Open Play at Promenade Park featuring creative course designs, flexible play and fundraising support for epilepsy and developmental disability programs. $5-$10. 5-10 pm. Promenade Park, 400 Water St. epilepsycenter.org

[outdoor concerts]

Crystal Bowersox - Enjoy a free outdoor concert at Town Center at Levis Commons featuring singer-songwriter Crystal Bowersox performing her soulful blend of folk, rock, blues and Americana. 7pm. The Town Center at Levis Commons, 4190 Levis Commons Blvd.,Perrysburg. mainart-ery.com

SAT, June 27

[health & wellness]

Let’s Get Moving 5 Year Anniversary Celebrationof Toledo Parks to celebrate 5 years of encouraging movement, wellness and community connection throughout Toledo. 9 am-noon. Walbridge Park, 112 Amherst Dr. @cityoftoledo

[yoga]

Wellness by the Boat: Yoga - Start your morning with movement, mindfulness and waterfront views with a relaxing outdoor yoga experience alongside the historic Col. James M. Schoonmaker. Registration is required. 10-11am. National Museum of the Great Lakes, 1701 Front St. nmgl.org

[live music, fundraisers]

Tracy Elizabeth Benefit with Mike "Mad Dog" Adams Join Wheelin’ on the Rocks to support Tracy in her fight against cancer! Enjoy raffle items, a 50/50 drawing and live music by Mike "Mad Dog" Adams. $5. 6pm. Wheelin' on the Rocks, 2640 W. Laskey Rd. @ WheelinOnTheRocks

[hiking]

Winter Woods Mindfulness Night Hike (All Ages)

Begin your new year with mindfulness by taking a peaceful, self-guided walk through the serene winter woods of Oak Openings Preserve Metropark. Registration is required. $8. 6:30-9pm 4139 Girdham Rd., Swanton. metroparkstoledo. com

RYAN ROTH, SIMPLICITY SOUNDS

SOCIAL STUDIES

photos by Christine Senack

The MIX

Bringing a vibrant burst of local culture, The Arts Commission’s annual MIX event united Toledo’s creative community for an unforgettable evening of art, music, and immersive performance.

Morgan (Audiotry) and Renee Granados of Birds Eye View with Olivia Anderson (center).

Jay Awada, Leigh Anne

Michelle Fisher, Chris Ritter

Adam Jackson

Lizzie Marck, Angela Humbard

Liz Bayan Hannah Bowlus

Sorrel Stone

SPEAK THE STARS CROSS WORD

by Janet Amid

GEMINI (MAY 21-JUNE 20) - This is your month of renewal. A time to reset, as the New Moon in your sign brings fresh starts—reinvent yourself boldly. Also, with the Full Moon in Cancer in your money house, be aware of unpredictable setbacks. You may feel more carefree than usual, pace yourself.

Aries ( March 20-April 19)

Communication takes center stage as the New Moon activates your area of chat. Though the Full Moon on the 29th triggers the home front. Emotions may flare, step back before overreacting. Also, Saturn in your sign asks for discipline. Think before you act—your words carry weight now.

Taurus ( April 20-May 20) - Finances and self-worth come into focus. Emotional spending vs. practical planning—find your balance. As a Taurus, you’re already one step ahead of the game plan. Knowledge is power, use it wisely. This is your month to shine.

Cancer ( June 21-July 20) - With Jupiter, Venus, and Mercury in your sign, emotions run deep. Family, healing, and intuition are at a high point and with this month’s Full Moon on the 29th, you may be heightened with emotion. However Saturn and Neptune in Aries can trigger impulse control Remember, you’re in the driver’s seat.

Leo - ( July 21-August 22) - Friendships and social circles shift. You may have outgrown certain connections—follow what feels authentic. Look at situations from a different perspective. Also, Saturn in your area of higher thought ignites your thirst for knowledge, spiritually or through education. Tape into it. Let it work its magic.

“WATCH OUT!”

Across 1.  Party girl?

5.  Length of time

9.  Ignore texts/emails/calls/etc.

14.  Wheel holder

15.  Sign of a saint

16.  Relaxes

17.  Start of a coin flip call where the outcome is fixed

19.  Jeff Tweedy’s band

20.  Carpenter ___

21.  Music purchases that come with download codes

22.  “Yucky!”

24.  Locked in

25.  Consumed

26.  Start the job

33.  Farmyard measurements

34.  It’s not mine

35.  High point of an Austrian vacation?

37.  Diner side

38.  Olfactory hint

39.  Get your story straight?

40.  Spot in the living room?

41.  Sydney Sweeney has great ones

42.  Dumps

43.  Sailing vessel whose sails are aligned with the keel

46.  Bird with 270º head rotation

47.  Slice of baloney

48.  Charge from an idling cab

52.  Butterfingers

53.  Kings grp.

56.  Rose oil

57.  Some IG poses with pouty lips

60.  “Same here”

61.  Arthur who raised a racket

62.  Pitcher’s error

63.  Eye problems

64.  Vibes

65.  Brewery installations

Down

1.  That’s a laugh

2.  Beasts on a farm

3.  Box spring support

4.  Coach Lasso with a “Believe” wall poster

5.  Words on a FedEx slip

6.  Boxer’s mitts?

7.  UB40 singer Campbell

8.  Number of Grammys Queen won

9.  Baubles

10.  Pompadour or quiff

11.  Viking Ship Museum city

12.  Min. divisions

13.  General ___ chicken

18.  Luge cousins

23.  Fingerprint mark

24.  Fricassée or goulash, e.g.

26.  Staff symbol

27.  Muse depicted with turtle doves by her feet

28.  Bill of The Rolling Stones

29.  Eternally

30.  US city nicknamed “Oil Capital of the World”

31.  Circular lines?

32.  Movie-set light

33.  Snake in some hieroglyphics

36.  Score board nos.

38.  Black Panther Bobby

39.  French 101 verb

41.  Styles worn by Art Garfunkel and Bob Dylan

42.  Unbending

44.  Turn things around?

45.  Failed to do something on time

48.  Chunks of cash

49.  Plugging away

50.  Very small

51.  Cheese in red

52.  Dos cubos

53.  Frozen Four org.

54.  Sander part

55.  Pops the question

58.  Private support org.

59.  No, on a beer can

Virgo ( August 23-September 22)

Career and public image are highlighted as the New Moon takes place at the zenith part of your chart. Your career, job is heightened. The Capricorn Full Moon brings clarity on long-term goals. Time to get focused, take your time, but be diligent.

Libra ( September 23-October 22)

Expansion calls—travel, learning, and new perspectives. Step outside your comfort zone. This is the month to travel, explore, and awaken your spiritual mind. Set intentions. This month also brings Gemini/Cancer energy to the work place. Attention is drawn to responsibilities ten fold. While the Capricorn Full Moon highlights home and family. Balancing your outer world with your inner world is key.

Scorpio ( October 23-November 21)

Deep emotional and financial matters surface. Transformation is powerful—lean into it. This is a deeply emotional and transformative month for you. Gemini energy pushes you to confront fears, especially around shared resources or emotional ties. Cancer placements support healing and growth. The Capricorn full moon sharpens communication—speak clearly and use your words.

Sagittarius ( Nov 22-Dec 20)

Relationships are under the spotlight. Balance independence with emotional connection. Gemini energy activates your partnerships, bringing both clarity and union. Cancer influences deepen emotional bonds and vulnerability. The Capricorn full moon asks you to reassess finances and personal value—know your limits

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19) Work, health, and daily routines need attention. The Full Moon in your sign is your personal reset as the month of June asks for balance between work and wellness. Gemini energy keeps you busy, but Cancer placements remind you not to neglect emotional needs. Let go of what no longer aligns with your purpose.

Aquarius ( Jan 20- Feb 18) - Creativity, romance, and joy are activated. Let your inner child lead the way as Gemini energy inspires fun and lightness. Cancer placements encourage you to focus on health and daily habits. The Capricorn full moon may bring a quiet but powerful realization—something behind the scenes is shifting.

Pisces ( Feb 19- March 19) - Home and family take priority. Emotional healing and reconnecting with your roots bring peace. Gemini energy may feel mentally scattered, but Cancer placements bring comfort and creativity. This is a beautiful time for connection and inspiration. The Capricorn full moon helps you define your goals and social direction.

Janet Amid is a columnist for THE TOLEDO CITY PAPER & radio/media personality and can be heard Monday mornings 8:10 AM to 8:20 AM with Suzi, and Paul on 93.5 FM. Text or call 419-240-1935, as she takes your astrological questions/requests!* Look for Janet on Instagram, Tik Tok & FaceBook!

Brendan Emmett Quigley

GET HEALTHY CLASSIFIEDS

Global Running Day 5K Set

The Toledo Roadrunners Club, in partnership with Metroparks Toledo, will host a Global Running Day 5K on Wednesday, June 3 at 6:30pm at Swan Creek Preserve Metropark. The paved course is accessible for all ages and ability levels. The event includes a timed run, along with water, snacks and giveaways at the finish. $10. 4094 Glendale Ave.

Happy Trails 5K

Wildwood Metropark is hosting the Happy Trails 5K on Sunday, June 21 at 8:30am. Hosted by Dave’s Running Shop in partnership with Metroparks Toledo, the event features a 5K course spanning both paved and unpaved trails, along with a familyand stroller-friendly one-mile walk on paved paths. 5100 Central Ave.

Tai Chi Along the River

Find balance and fresh air with Wellness by the Boat: Tai Chi at the National Museum of the Great Lakes. This free 45-minute session invites participants to slow down with gentle, flowing movements in the scenic Cliffs Great Lakes Maritime Park beside the historic Col. James M. Schoonmaker. For all fitness levels. Saturday, June 13, 10 am. 1701 Front St. nmgl.org/event/wellness-by-theboat-tai-chi-june13/

Yoga with the Butterflies

Step into the warm greenhouse for Yoga with the Butterflies, at The Butterfly House in Whitehouse. Surrounded by butterflies, lush greenery and humid, sunlit air. $15 per person. Thursday, June 11, 8:30 am. The Butterfly House, 11455 Obee Rd., Whitehouse. wheelerfarms.com

Let’s Get Moving: 5th Year Anniversary Celebration

The City of Toledo celebrates five years of its Let’s Get Moving initiative with a morning of fitness, wellness and connection. Enjoy a guided community walk, health resources, activities for all ages and opportunities to engage with local organizations dedicated to healthy living. Free and open to the public. Walbridge Park, 2761 Broadway St. Saturday, June 27, 9 am - 12 pm. toledo.oh.gov/events/ lets-get-moving-2026-anniversary-party

SALE

GIGANTIC RUMMAGE SALE

ST JOSEPH MAUMEE

Wed. June 3rd 5pm-8pm (+10% Markup)

Thurs. June 4th 9am-4pm

Fri. June 5th 9am-4pm

Sat. June 6th 9am-12pm

**SATURDAY ONLY**

$5 Per Brown Paper Grocery Bag ALL Items excluding Boutique 1/2 PRICE ON ALL OTHER ITEMS

120 West Broadway, Maumee

PERSONAL

HONEST 30 YEAR OLD MALE is seeking 21-30 year old female with no kids, who likes country music, shopping, nature, and going out to eat. Text photo to 419260-5468 if interested.

ELDER SITTING

Do you need a couple of hours of free time? Has something unexpected come up that you need to address? I will provide companionship and a watchful eye for your elderly loved one in your home while you are away. Reliable, loyal, and willing to help out.

SYLVANIA • WEST TOLEDO • LAMBERTVILLE • TEMPERANCE CALL VICKI AT 419-654-4858 FOR MORE INFO!

PROPERTY FOR SALE

1200 SQ FT BUILDING IN THE HEART OF OTTAWA LAKE, MI (near Sylvania, OH). Serious inquiries please call 734807-1826 for more information.

HEALTH/MEDICAL

DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-877-553-1891 www.dental50plus. com/macnet #6258

HEALTH/MEDICAL

DIAGNOSED WITH LUNG CANCER and 65+? You may qualify for a substantial cash award. NO obligation! We’ve recovered millions. Let us help!! Call 24/7, 1-866-590-5563

HEALTH/MEDICAL

STROKE AND CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE are leading causes of death, according to the American Heart Association. Screenings can provide peace of mind or early detection! Contact Life Line Screening to schedule your screening. Special offer - 5 screenings for just $149. Call 1-866-518-8391

THE GENERAC PWRCELL, A SOLAR PLUS BATTERY STORAGE SYSTEM. SAVE money, reduce your reliance on the grid, prepare for power outages and power your home. Full installation services available. $0 Down Financing Option. Request a FREE, no obligation, quote today. Call 1-866-783-0292

MISCELLANEOUS

DIRECTV OVER INTERNET - Get your favorite live TV, sports and local channels. 99% signal reliability! CHOICE Package, $84.99/mo for 12 months. HBO Max and Premium Channels included for 3 mos (w/CHOICE Package or higher.) No annual contract, no hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-866-6296086

MISCELLANEOUS

FOR SALE

DON’T LET THE STAIRS LIMIT YOUR MOBILITY! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 1-844-317-5246

HOME IMPROVEMENT/ MISC

PREPARE FOR POWER OUTAGES TODAY with a GENERAC home standby generator $0 Money Down + Low Monthly Payment Options. Request a FREE Quote. Call now before the next power outage: 1-855-465-7624

SAFE STEP. NORTH AMERICA ’S #1 WALK-IN TUB. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-833-356-1954

THE BATHROOM OF YOUR DREAMS IN AS LITTLE AS 1 DAY. Limited Time Offer - $1000 off or No Payments and No Interest for 18 months for customers who qualify. BCI Bath & Shower. Many options available. Quality materials & professional installation. Senior & Military Discounts Available. Call Today! 1-877-540-2780

DISH TV $64.99 For 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. Promo Expires 1/21/24. 1-866-590-5561

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE

NEED IRS RELIEF $10K - $125K+ Get Fresh Start or Forgiveness Call 1-877-705-1472 Monday through Friday 7AM-5PM PST

VACATION

ALASKA, EUROPE, HAWAII PLUS DOZENS OF OTHER POPULAR TRIPS! Starting at $1649 per person (double occupancy req’d.) YMT Vacations plans everything, leaving you to relax and enjoy. Call 1-877-771-3193 for more details. Use promo code YMT2024 for $250 off. Limited time only.

IMPORTANT! PLEASE NOTE!!! Check the email address you have on your ad to make sure it is as shown. Krmiller1965@ yahoo.com. Please let us know if you had the incorrect email address.

WANTED

BUYING CLASSIC CARS, TRUCKS, SUVS **American and Foreign** Any Condition. Buying entire car collections. $$PAYING CA$H$$ Please call 717-5778206 Krmiller1965@yahoo.com

WANTED

WANTED! MOTORCYCLES! ANTIQUE AND CLASSIC. Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha, Triumph, BSA, and other foreign models. $$PAYING CA$H$$ 717577-8206 Krmiller1965@yahoo.com

Dad Best Ever

Safe Medication Return

Safe Medication Return

store and dispose of unused medications, you are doing your

to keep your family and friends healthy and safe. Help prevent accidental poisoning, medication misuse and environmental harm by dropping off your expired or unused medications at a local medicine drop box.