http://www.toledoblade.com The Latest News from Toledoblade.com (v5) Fri, 23 Oct 2026 04:11:47 GMT en-us hourly 1 https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/10/18/hendel-gala-attracts-hundreds-at-franciscan-center/stories/20261017002 https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/10/18/hendel-gala-attracts-hundreds-at-franciscan-center/stories/20261017002#comments Sun, 18 Oct 2026 10:30:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/10/18/hendel-gala-attracts-hundreds-at-franciscan-center/stories/20261017002 THE Sylvania Franciscan Gala on Sept. 20 at the Franciscan Center honored Lauren Bacans-Grounds, executive director of the Islamic Food Bank of Toledo, and Kate Beutel, who served at Lourdes University for 21 years. Food and fun followed including an online auction for items ranging from a weekend Father Stewart Lindsay won the gift card tree during the Franciscan event. David and Charlene Czerniak were among the guests at the Franciscan Center. Kate Beutel is pictured with Sister Sharon Derivan and Lauren Bacans-Grounds. Elaine Dickendasher and Sister Carol Ann Grace have fun at the gala. Victor and Kim Taylor, along with Belen Guerrero and Krysta Mata at the Tocqueville gathering. Angela Nowak, JoJo Goldberg, and Annika Awls at the Toledo Club. Stu Goldbert, Kevin Gilmore, and Linda Hillstrom smile during the United Way event. Ann Hartmann, Rick Mlcek, and Ken and Jean Lovejoy are among the attendees. Local artist Ann Filipiak received recent recognition in New York. https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/10/17/photo-gallery-black-swamp-fantasy-ren-fest/stories/20261017110 https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/10/17/photo-gallery-black-swamp-fantasy-ren-fest/stories/20261017110#comments Sat, 17 Oct 2026 18:55:09 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/10/17/photo-gallery-black-swamp-fantasy-ren-fest/stories/20261017110 Residents gathered in costume for the Black Swamp Fantasy Ren Fest at the Toledo Club on Saturday in Toledo. Rebekka Forster holds her son, Ulysses Welter, as her husband Frank Welter fixes his knight costume during the Black Swamp Fantasy Ren Fest at the Toledo Club on Oct. 17 in Toledo. Sandy Franklin walks with her granddaughter, Maxine Reynolds, 7, and daughter, Ash Rockwell, during the Black Swamp Fantasy Ren Fest at the Toledo Club on Oct. 17 in Toledo. Professor Pemberton's Wands and Accoutrements, 100% handmade magic wands, are displayed for sale during the Black Swamp Fantasy Ren Fest at the Toledo Club on Oct. 17 in Toledo. Corshay Wyse and Emily Heaton, servers at Toledo Club, take a selfie during the Black Swamp Fantasy Ren Fest at the Toledo Club on Oct. 17 in Toledo. Roxie Mlynek takes a picture of her friend, Ginny Todd, during the Black Swamp Fantasy Ren Fest at the Toledo Club on Oct. 17 in Toledo. Lyra Oakson plays the Celtic harp during the Black Swamp Fantasy Ren Fest at the Toledo Club on Oct. 17 in Toledo. https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/10/12/inside-diabetes-research-at-utoledo/stories/20261011040 https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/10/12/inside-diabetes-research-at-utoledo/stories/20261011040#comments Mon, 12 Oct 2026 10:17:53 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/10/12/inside-diabetes-research-at-utoledo/stories/20261011040 There are currently more than 830 million people worldwide who are living with some form of diabetes. So, for every 10 fans at a football game, every 10 customers at a restaurant, or every 10 concert-goers, at least 1 person in each of these groups likely has diabetes. There are several types of Breanna Coffman is in a research laboratory on the University of Toledo's Health Science Campus. https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/10/11/hendel-events-put-focus-on-ending-hunger/stories/20261010002 https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/10/11/hendel-events-put-focus-on-ending-hunger/stories/20261010002#comments Sun, 11 Oct 2026 10:00:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/10/11/hendel-events-put-focus-on-ending-hunger/stories/20261010002 SEPTEMBER was Hunger Action Month, a nationwide campaign started in 2007 by the Feeding America network to raise awareness and inspire action to end food insecurity in the United States. The actual day was Sept. 29 and many supporters wore orange, the official color of the hunger awareness movement. Brian Lauber, Mike Bell, Fred Dannhauser, and Houston Young gather at the fund-raiser for Cherry Street Mission. Nasri Hajjar of Hajjar Hospitality with lamb pierogies and grape leaves for those who attended Under the Bridge. Scott and Ann Ebbert at the festivites. Charlene Page, Leslie Erwin, and Dione Somerville at the fund-raiser. Pork PC Pub Sliders from Second Helping Food Truck were one of the items on the menu at the Cherry Street mission event. Apryl Morin and Larry Butts, advisory board members at Salvation Army, and Kim Danes, director of advancement, enjoy the evening. Salvation Army Majors Candy and JR Fritsch at the outdoor event. One of the desserts at the Schedel event. Jeffrey Mann of Jeffrey Mann Jewelers smiles during the gathering, with crowds of tables around him. Another dessert is decked out in red. The early scene outside at the Schedel affair. https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/10/04/photo-gallery-polish-heritage-celebration/stories/20261004103 https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/10/04/photo-gallery-polish-heritage-celebration/stories/20261004103#comments Sun, 04 Oct 2026 18:50:56 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/10/04/photo-gallery-polish-heritage-celebration/stories/20261004103 Residents turned out for the annual Polish Heritage Celebration by the Toledo Polish Genealogical Society at St. Catherine of Siena Parish in Toledo on Sunday. Sandy Wieczorek Maugel, left, and Dr. Cindy Ratkowski, both members of the Toledo Polish Genealogical Society, dance during the 3rd annual Polish Heritage Celebration by the Toledo Polish Genealogical Society at St. Catherine of Siena Parish in Toledo on Oct. 4. Randy Krajewski, right, plays with his band during the 3rd annual Polish Heritage Celebration by the Toledo Polish Genealogical Society at St. Catherine of Siena Parish in Toledo on Oct. 4. A Polish dinner during the 3rd annual Polish Heritage Celebration by the Toledo Polish Genealogical Society at St. Catherine of Siena Parish in Toledo on Oct. 4. Alexis and Sam Decola, at left, are served a Polish dinner by volunteer Ryan Soviar during the 3rd annual Polish Heritage Celebration by the Toledo Polish Genealogical Society at St. Catherine of Siena Parish in Toledo on Oct. 4. Randy Krajewski plays with his band during the 3rd annual Polish Heritage Celebration by the Toledo Polish Genealogical Society at St. Catherine of Siena Parish in Toledo on Oct. 4. Polish baked goods during the 3rd annual Polish Heritage Celebration by the Toledo Polish Genealogical Society at St. Catherine of Siena Parish in Toledo on Oct. 4. https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/10/04/hendel-toledo-zoo-event-beneath-the-sea/stories/20261003003 https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/10/04/hendel-toledo-zoo-event-beneath-the-sea/stories/20261003003#comments Sun, 04 Oct 2026 10:00:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/10/04/hendel-toledo-zoo-event-beneath-the-sea/stories/20261003003 THE WEATHER was perfect for the PNC ZOOtoDO presented by Lexus on Sept. 17 at the Toledo Zoo and Aquarium. Additional sponsors included North Star BlueScope Steel, CliftonLarsonAllen LLP, and more.  Some 2,500 adult party-goers, many dressed in creative and fun outfits to fit the Beneath the A look at the Toledo Zoo from above on the evening of the annual fund-raiser. Bill and Heather McDonnell, left, along with Jack and Abbie Dalton. Bill is the head of PNC, which is the title sponsor of the zoo event. The zoo, shown from above, is full of lights. Evone Edwards, a nine-year ovarian cancer survivor, stands with Tammy McKittrick, a 10-year survivor, during the Ovarian Cancer Connection walk at Buckeye Broadband in Northwood, Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026. Family members supporting Ernestine Smith, an ovarian cancer survivor, stand together during the Ovarian Cancer Connection walk at Buckeye Broadband in Northwood, Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026. Caleb Stasa, 5, wears a blue poncho as he walks alongside others during the Ovarian Cancer Connection walk at Buckeye Broadband in Northwood, Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026. From left, Megan Low, Amanda Yeary, an ovarian cancer survivor, and Darri Murphy, stand together with their family during the Ovarian Cancer Connection walk at Buckeye Broadband in Northwood, Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026. Darri Murphy fixes the sash on her daughter, Amanda Yeary, an ovarian cancer survivor, during the Ovarian Cancer Connection walk at Buckeye Broadband in Northwood, Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026. Patricia Gatling waves to friends during the Susan G. Komen Northwest Ohio Race for the Cure in downtown Toledo, Sunday, Sept. 27, 2026. Walkers watch as runners take off during the Susan G. Komen Northwest Ohio Race for the Cure in downtown Toledo, Sunday, Sept. 27, 2026. Nancy Huckleby waits for the Susan G. Komen Northwest Ohio Race for the Cure to begin in downtown Toledo, Sunday, Sept. 27, 2026. Sylvia Brinkman waits for the Susan G. Komen Northwest Ohio Race for the Cure to begin in downtown Toledo, Sunday, Sept. 27, 2026. Gwen Chandler-Gregory and Susan Smith, survivors and best friends, sit next to Sarah Davidson, Smith’s daughter, during the Susan G. Komen Northwest Ohio Race for the Cure in downtown Toledo, Sunday, Sept. 27, 2026. **this photo was used in news on 9/28 Heather Hartford stands sporting cancer awareness socks with Walter, the dog of her late aunt, Kris, who passed of cancer during the Susan G. Komen Northwest Ohio Race for the Cure in downtown Toledo, Sunday, Sept. 27, 2026. **this photo was used in news on 9/28 https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/09/27/hendel-don-t-give-up-the-ship-among-summer-fund-raising-events/stories/20260926003 https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/09/27/hendel-don-t-give-up-the-ship-among-summer-fund-raising-events/stories/20260926003#comments Sun, 27 Sep 2026 10:00:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/09/27/hendel-don-t-give-up-the-ship-among-summer-fund-raising-events/stories/20260926003 Fund-raisers were plentiful over the summer, for causes that ranged from the parks, to libraries, and homelessness. Bob and Marcia Sloan Latta, with Gavin and Lt. Col. Michael Yates, executive officer of Fort Ohio, show the battle flag reminiscent of the Battle of Lake Erie. Historian Douglas Brinkley spoke virtually about the Battle of Lake Erie. Chris and Mary Beth Hammond of Findlay attend the 250th fund-raiser for the parks. Nikki and Dan Reineke of Tiffin, left, talk with Ohio Department of Natural Resources Director Mary Mertz. Cheryl Buckland, Marcia Sloan Latta, and Mary Beth Hammond sport red, white, and blue at the anniversary event. A book stands as the centerpiece at the library gala. Judge James Knepp, Judge Linda Knepp, Karen Merrels, Jason Kucsma, Justice Judith Lanzinger, Julian Broggio, Barbara Hendel, and Rosemary Yanik at the library fund-raiser. Mary Trinidad and Jennifer Jacobs, who is the executive director of Leading Families Home at its recent event. Jodi Gross, executive director of the East Toledo Family Center, is pictured with Brad Densmore, grandson of the center’s founding executive director, Warren Densmore. https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/09/21/bgsu-researcher-leads-push-against-dangerous-opioid-in-ohio/stories/20260920103 https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/09/21/bgsu-researcher-leads-push-against-dangerous-opioid-in-ohio/stories/20260920103#comments Mon, 21 Sep 2026 10:16:45 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/09/21/bgsu-researcher-leads-push-against-dangerous-opioid-in-ohio/stories/20260920103 BOWLING GREEN, Ohio – When chemists at the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) came across a dangerous drug they had not seen before, they sought out an expert at BowlingGreen State University to help identify the compound and inform the state’s emergency medical community. Jon Sprague, R.Ph., Ph.D., the BCI Eminent Scholar at the BGSU Center for the Future of Forensic Science, is working with the Ohio Attorney General's Bureau of Criminal Investigation to help alert first responders and other medical personnel about the dangers of a potent opioid appearing in the state. https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/09/20/hendel-press-club-honors-local-journalists-community-members/stories/20260914080 https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/09/20/hendel-press-club-honors-local-journalists-community-members/stories/20260914080#comments Sun, 20 Sep 2026 10:00:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/09/20/hendel-press-club-honors-local-journalists-community-members/stories/20260914080 THEY’RE still basking in glory about being in the limelight. Usually the press writes stories about everyone else, but this time journalists were the topic of the news. No deadlines this time! The Blade's Tom Troy, with wife Anne, received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2026 Touchstone Awards by the Press Club of Toledo at WGTE Public Media on Sept. 10 in South Toledo. Dan Cummins, with wife Barb, received a Golden Touchstone at the 2026 Touchstone Awards by the Press Club of Toledo at WGTE Public Media on Sept. 10 in South Toledo. Shaun Hegarty, with wife Sara, received the Norm Cartwright Award at the 2026 Touchstone Awards by the Press Club of Toledo at WGTE Public Media on Sept. 10 in South Toledo. Christina Rodriguez, with mother Linda Torres, received a Contributor Award for the 2026 Touchstone Awards by the Press Club of Toledo at WGTE Public Media on Sept. 10 in South Toledo. Former Toledo news anchor Chrys Peterson and daughter Riley Runnells cohost the 2026 Touchstone Awards by the Press Club of Toledo at WGTE Public Media on Sept. 10 in South Toledo. Marcus Harrison, director of marketing and communications at WGTE, and also Press Club president, right, and B.J. Fischer at the 2026 Touchstone Awards by the Press Club of Toledo at WGTE Public Media on Sept. 10 in South Toledo. Mary Alice Powell, who passed away in July, was recognized and remembered by the Press Club at its awards ceremony. Gina Wray rappels down the Junction building during the Over the Edge for Victory in downtown Toledo Sept. 4. Cheryl Walter and Mia Leone extend their arms out before rappelling down the Junction building during the Over the Edge for Victory in downtown Toledo on Sept. 4. https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/09/13/hendel-muddy-event-raises-money-for-animals/stories/20260903102 https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/09/13/hendel-muddy-event-raises-money-for-animals/stories/20260903102#comments Sun, 13 Sep 2026 10:30:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/09/13/hendel-muddy-event-raises-money-for-animals/stories/20260903102 THEY got "Down And Dirty For The Birdies" at the 15th Annual Bump, Set, Splat, Mud Volleyball Tournament sponsored by Genoa Bank and hosted by the Toledo Sport and Social Club on Aug. 29 at the Lucas County Fairgrounds. The more than $20,000 benefited Nature’s Nursery Center For Wildlife Team Fendrick celebrates a point by Brad Leonowich, center, during Bump, Set, Splat, Mud Volleyball on Aug. 29 at the Lucas County Fairgrounds in Maumee. Jane Anderson laughs after falling during Bump, Set, Splat, Mud Volleyball on Aug. 29 at the Lucas County Fairgrounds in Maumee. Destyna Diaz celebrates a point for her team during Bump, Set, Splat, Mud Volleyball on Aug. 29 at the Lucas County Fairgrounds in Maumee. Teammates splash mud onto Cassandra Fendrick after scoring a point during Bump, Set, Splat, Mud Volleyball on Aug. 29 at the Lucas County Fairgrounds in Maumee. James Keller hits the ball during Bump, Set, Splat, Mud Volleyball on Aug. 29 at the Lucas County Fairgrounds in Maumee. Mud drips down James Keller’s back during Bump, Set, Splat, Mud Volleyball on Aug. 29 at the Lucas County Fairgrounds in Maumee. Team Dirt Bags celebrate their win during Bump, Set, Splat, Mud Volleyball on Aug. 29 at the Lucas County Fairgrounds in Maumee. Tara Wood hits the ball during Bump, Set, Splat, Mud Volleyball on Aug. 29 at the Lucas County Fairgrounds in Maumee. Jarred Plazak dunks Shannon Bills into the mud during Bump, Set, Splat, Mud Volleyball on Aug. 29 at the Lucas County Fairgrounds in Maumee. Tara Wood falls in the mud during Bump, Set, Splat, Mud Volleyball on Aug. 29 at the Lucas County Fairgrounds in Maumee. Two teams play Aug. 22 during the the 35th Pollyball Volleyball Tournament at Glass City Metropark in East Toledo. Balloon decorations hang on the fence Aug. 22 during the the 35th Pollyball Volleyball Tournament at Glass City Metropark in East Toledo. From left, Davis Satterlee, Alex Satterlee and Kirk Demuth on Aug. 22 during the the 35th Pollyball Volleyball Tournament at Glass City Metropark in East Toledo. Jabari Jackson serves the ball Aug. 22 during the the 35th Pollyball Volleyball Tournament at Glass City Metropark in East Toledo. From left, Richard Hylant, Sarah Tracy, and Sandra Hylant Aug. 22 during the the 35th Pollyball Volleyball Tournament at Glass City Metropark in East Toledo. From left, Joey Calmes, Jeff Calmes, Jayla Young and Sara Hermiller on Aug. 22 during the the 35th Pollyball Volleyball Tournament at Glass City Metropark in East Toledo. Maranda Roach goes for the ball Aug. 22 during the the 35th Pollyball Volleyball Tournament at Glass City Metropark in East Toledo. https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/09/06/hendel-summer-soiree-held-local-home-boule-group/stories/20260827099 https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/09/06/hendel-summer-soiree-held-local-home-boule-group/stories/20260827099#comments Sun, 06 Sep 2026 10:30:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/09/06/hendel-summer-soiree-held-local-home-boule-group/stories/20260827099 SUMMER is nearing its end, but ahh the memories of fun times.  THE rain stopped and the sun came out for the Toledo-based Alpha Phi Boule’s annual summer soiree Aug. 15 at the home of Archon Dr. Charles Lash and his Archousa Dominique Lash. The outdoor setting was a gorgeous show Dr. Charles Lash and Dominique Lash opened up their home for the Boule event. Thomas and Kelli Winston attended the Boule Summer Soiree. Paul Hubbard and Marie Bush attended the soiree. Rodney and Sheila Eason attended the Boule gathering. He is the local group's president. Kathy Jex, president, Jane Mathias, vice president, Jackie Janowiecki, hospitality, and Ruth Creecy, treasurer, who is seated, attended the TYC auxiliary for the annual pool party. Tia Jokic, Peggy Greeley, Mike Greeley, Nolan Greeley, Troy Greeley, and Brad Greeley attended their group boating trip. Wendy Greeley is not pictured. Les Lipski celebrates his 75th birthday at the Carranor event, along with Karen Lucas. Jarman and Rachel Davis sport their red and green for the Christmas in July festivities. Bruce and Holly Samuelson enjoy the Christmas in July party. The club's Christmas in July party setting is lit up. https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/08/30/hendel-lake-erie-beach-party-attracts-thousands/stories/20260829004 https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/08/30/hendel-lake-erie-beach-party-attracts-thousands/stories/20260829004#comments Sun, 30 Aug 2026 10:00:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/08/30/hendel-lake-erie-beach-party-attracts-thousands/stories/20260829004 TOES in the sand was part of the fun for the tropical and beachy attired guests at the Boys & Girls Clubs Barefoot at the Beach 2026 on Aug. 15 at Maumee Bay State Park on the shores of Lake Erie. Amid storm threats, volunteers started setting up that previous Thursday, with tear down after the https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/08/27/german-american-festival-society-celebrates-60-years/stories/20260826004 https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/08/27/german-american-festival-society-celebrates-60-years/stories/20260826004#comments Thu, 27 Aug 2026 12:00:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/08/27/german-american-festival-society-celebrates-60-years/stories/20260826004 Ben Krieger, president of the German American Society, said he cannot wait to celebrate at this year’s German-American Festival. “I just tell everyone that they should bring a guest and come to the fest,” Krieger said. “It really is the largest ethnic festival in northwest Historical photo of the German American Festival. The GAF is celebrating its 60th year. German American Festival Festival Chairman Mike Willinger, the Schornsteinfeger or chimney sweep, and Lisa Pietras walk during the festival's Friday night parade in 2025. A 1972 photo of the German American Festival steins. The festival is celebrating its 60th year. Historical photo of the GAF. The festival is in its 60th year. Members of the German American Festival walk in the Friday night parade in the opening ceremony in 2024. Dancers from the Deutsche Volkstanz Gruppe (German folk dance group) of the American Turners at the 2024 German American Festival. https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/08/24/bgsu-research-finds-toxins-algal-blooms-present-air-samples/stories/20260824003 https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/08/24/bgsu-research-finds-toxins-algal-blooms-present-air-samples/stories/20260824003#comments Mon, 24 Aug 2026 10:25:46 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/08/24/bgsu-research-finds-toxins-algal-blooms-present-air-samples/stories/20260824003 New research by a Bowling Green State University scientist found that harmful algal blooms – the primary issue facing Lake Erie – release toxins into the air that can be inhaled by humans at distances hundreds of miles from the site of a bloom. BGSU researcher James Metcalf, Ph.D, right, found toxins from algal blooms present in air samples, even at sites that were not near a bloom. https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/08/23/hendel-the-two-toledos-gather-for-a-gala-complete-with-a-sword/stories/20260822003 https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/08/23/hendel-the-two-toledos-gather-for-a-gala-complete-with-a-sword/stories/20260822003#comments Sun, 23 Aug 2026 10:00:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/08/23/hendel-the-two-toledos-gather-for-a-gala-complete-with-a-sword/stories/20260822003 THE 95th Anniversary Celebration of the Association of Two Toledos: Toledo, Ohio and Toledo, Spain took place Aug. 6 at the Toledo Club with honorees Mayor Carlos Velazquez Romo, Toledo, Espana and Martha Vera, honorary Consul of Spain.  They were celebrating 95 years of a sister city Toledo Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz holds a glass sword crafted by local artist Jim Yarrito, to be gifted to Carlos Velázquez Romo, the mayor of Toledo, Spain, during the Celebration of the Association of Two Toledos 95th anniversary gala at the Toledo Club on Aug. 6 in Toledo. Councilmen Adam Martinez and Cerssandra McPherson stand together during the Celebration of the Association of Two Toledos 95th anniversary gala at the Toledo Club on Aug. 6 in Toledo. Mike Beach, Austin Serna, congressional assistant with Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur, Loreto Molina Diaz, Toledo, Spain councilman; Mayor Carlos Velazquez Romo of Toledo, Spain; Marisol Illescas León, Toledo, Spain coucilman, and Sonia Casado de Pablos, chief of cabinet, stand together after presented with a proclamation from Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur during the Celebration of the Association of Two Toledos 95th anniversary gala at the Toledo Club on Aug. 6 in Toledo. A cake that reads “long live two Toledos” is displayed during the Celebration of the Association of Two Toledos 95th anniversary gala at the Toledo Club on Aug. 6 in Toledo. Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz and Mayor Carlos Velázquez Romo stand together during the Celebration of the Association of Two Toledos 95th anniversary gala celebrating Toledo, Spain and Toledo, Ohio at the Toledo Club on Aug. 6 in Toledo. Patrick Kennedy, head of scholarship committee, and Mona Bahouth-Kennedy, recording secretary of the Association of Two Toledos, stand together during the Celebration of the Association of Two Toledos 95th anniversary gala. Mike Beach; Mayor Carlos Velazquez Romo of Toledo, Spain; Loreto Molina Diaz, Toledo, Spain counciman; Joe Walsh, president of Toledo Sister Cities International, and Marisol Illescas León, Toledo, Spain coucilman, stand together during the Celebration of the Association of Two Toledos 95th anniversary gala. Blessy McWan sits while holding her son, Asher Jonathon McCarthy, during the Celebration of the Association of Two Toledos 95th anniversary gala. Attendees listen to music during the Celebration of the Association of Two Toledos 95th anniversary gala. Mona Bahouth-Kennedy, recording secretary of the Association of Two Toledos, wears a U.S. and Spain flag pin during the Celebration of the Association of Two Toledos 95th anniversary gala. Singers perform during the Celebration of the Association of Two Toledos 95th anniversary gala. Julie Spears, Kayla Foreman, and Genevieve Kirkbride sit together during the Celebration of the Association of Two Toledos 95th anniversary gala. An attendee takes a picture on their phone as Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz speaks with Mayor Carlos Velázquez Romo during the Celebration of the Association of Two Toledos 95th anniversary gala. Attendees listen and mingle as the Toledo Opera performs during the Celebration of the Association of Two Toledos 95th anniversary gala. https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/08/16/photo-gallery-birmingham-ethnic-festival-1/stories/20260816119 https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/08/16/photo-gallery-birmingham-ethnic-festival-1/stories/20260816119#comments Sun, 16 Aug 2026 19:48:49 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/08/16/photo-gallery-birmingham-ethnic-festival-1/stories/20260816119 Dancers, singers, and drum lines participate in the Birmingham Ethnic Festival in East Toledo on Sunday. Members of the St. Stephen’s Catholic Church’s choir perform at the opening ceremony during the Birmingham Ethnic Festival in East Toledo on Aug. 16. Members of the St. Stephen’s Catholic Church’s choir perform at the opening ceremony during the Birmingham Ethnic Festival in East Toledo on Aug. 16. Jasmin Tropf and her 5-year-old son, Jensen, right, and 2-year-old son, Janos, cross Consaul Street to make it to the opening ceremony of the Birmingham Ethnic Festival in East Toledo on Aug. 16. Members of the St. Stephen’s Catholic Church’s choir perform at the opening ceremony during the Birmingham Ethnic Festival in East Toledo on Aug. 16. Jasmin Tropf and her 5-year-old son, Jensen, cross Consaul Street to make it to the opening ceremony of the Birmingham Ethnic Festival in East Toledo on Aug. 16. Endre Cseh plays the cimbalom, Hungary’s national instrument, during the Birmingham Ethnic Festival in East Toledo on Aug. 16. Hungarian pastries await buyers during the Birmingham Ethnic Festival in East Toledo on Aug. 16. The Waite High School drum line performs at the opening ceremony during the Birmingham Ethnic Festival in East Toledo on Aug. 16. Endre Cseh plays the cimbalom, Hungary’s national instrument, during the Birmingham Ethnic Festival in East Toledo on Aug. 16. Members of American Turners Toledo perform in the basement of St. Stephen’s Catholic Church during the Birmingham Ethnic Festival in East Toledo on Aug. 16. Emily Masserant, left, is handed Hungarian pastries from Bernadette Ujvagi during the Birmingham Ethnic Festival in East Toledo on Aug. 16. Bernadette Ujvagi, left, and Barb Marazon prepare a Hungarian pastry order during the Birmingham Ethnic Festival in East Toledo on Sunday, Aug. 16. https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/08/16/hendel-clambake-mixes-in-a-birthday-celebration/stories/20260815006 https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/08/16/hendel-clambake-mixes-in-a-birthday-celebration/stories/20260815006#comments Sun, 16 Aug 2026 10:00:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/08/16/hendel-clambake-mixes-in-a-birthday-celebration/stories/20260815006 IT WAS beautiful weather for the 400 community movers and shakers attending the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce Clambake “America 250” by PNC on July 30 at the Toledo Zoo and Aquarium. Guests attend the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce's Clambake at the Toledo Zoo on July 30. PNC Regional President Bill McDonnell, Heather McDonell, Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Wendy Gramza, and Mark Gramza attend the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce's Clambake at the Toledo Zoo on July 30. Joe Bowen, Ashley Hathaway, Sarah Goodnough, and Carrie Gonzalez attend the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce's Clambake at the Toledo Zoo on July 30. Bill McDonnell, center, and wife Heather McDonnell, right, speak with University of Toledo President James Holloway at the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce's Clambake at the Toledo Zoo on July 30. Rhonda Long and Brenda Kerr, of Hawaiian Pools, at the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce's Clambake at the Toledo Zoo on July 30. Andrea, Richard, and Gloria Reynolds gather together to celebrate the Outstanding Eagle 2 award. Judge Myron Duhart is recognized with the Council Distinguished Alumnus Award. Margaret Warner, Gary Waterstradt, and Owen Warner smile together to celebrate success in scouting. Eagle Scouts Quinn Rader, Lily Rader, and Grant Martin participate in events. Eagle Scout Kara Bolinger talks about attending the State of the Union. https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/08/13/kennedy-center-board-trump-name-closure-renovation-facade/stories/20260813117 https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/08/13/kennedy-center-board-trump-name-closure-renovation-facade/stories/20260813117#comments Thu, 13 Aug 2026 18:52:10 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/08/13/kennedy-center-board-trump-name-closure-renovation-facade/stories/20260813117 WASHINGTON — The Kennedy Center will move forward with a two-year closure of the sprawling performing arts venue to allow for substantial renovation work, while some outdoor programming may continue, according to two people familiar with the matter. The Kennedy Center board also voted on Thursday to add President Donald Trump's name to the facade of the performing arts building, according to Rep. Joyce Beatty and lawyers. The exterior of the Kennedy Center is seen July 31 in Washington. National Guard members walk outside of the Kennedy Center on July 31 in Washington. Workers stand inside the Hall of Nations in the Kennedy Center on July 31 in Washington. https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/08/09/birmingham-ethnic-festival-celebrate-51-years-tradition/stories/20260805113 https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/08/09/birmingham-ethnic-festival-celebrate-51-years-tradition/stories/20260805113#comments Sun, 09 Aug 2026 15:00:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/08/09/birmingham-ethnic-festival-celebrate-51-years-tradition/stories/20260805113 Marlene Danko has one phrase she lives by during the Birmingham Ethnic Festival season: If you bake it, they will come. “We have been steadily increasing the baking of the cookies each year, but there never seems to be enough,” said Ms. Danko, head baker at the Hungarian Club of Toledo. From left, Betty Ujvagi and Pam Lenning make cookies in preparation for the Birmingham Ethnic Festival on July 29 at the Hungarian Club in Toledo. From left, Betty Ujvagi and Pam Lenning make cookies in preparation for the Birmingham Ethnic Festival on July 29 at the Hungarian Club in Toledo. John Horvath cuts dough to make cookies in preparation for the Birmingham Ethnic Festival on July 29 at the Hungarian Club in Toledo. Chuck Juhasz pulls cookies out of the oven in preparation for the Birmingham Ethnic Festival on July 29 at the Hungarian Club in Toledo. Volunteers make cookies in preparation for the Birmingham Ethnic Festival on July 29 at the Hungarian Club in Toledo. From left, Marilyn Wuest and Betty Ujvagi make cookies in preparation for the Birmingham Ethnic Festival on July 29 at the Hungarian Club in Toledo. Volunteers make cookies in preparation for the Birmingham Ethnic Festival on July 29 at the Hungarian Club in Toledo. Apricot cookies are prepared on July 29 at the Hungarian Club in Toledo. Betty Ujvagi makes cookies in preparation for the Birmingham Ethnic Festival on July 29 at the Hungarian Club in Toledo. Beilah Wesolowski makes cookies in preparation for the Birmingham Ethnic Festival on July 29 at the Hungarian Club in Toledo. Jennifer Newhouse makes cookies in preparation for the Birmingham Ethnic Festival on July 29 at the Hungarian Club in Toledo. https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/08/09/hendel-unruly-arts-takes-over-toledo-zoo-with-evening-festivities/stories/20260731092 https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/08/09/hendel-unruly-arts-takes-over-toledo-zoo-with-evening-festivities/stories/20260731092#comments Sun, 09 Aug 2026 10:00:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2026/08/09/hendel-unruly-arts-takes-over-toledo-zoo-with-evening-festivities/stories/20260731092 AN alfresco dinner, Gathering in the Garden – An Evening Celebrating Unruly Arts at the Toledo Zoo  was held July 23 at the Toledo Zoo's Formal Gardens. Unruly Arts is a small studio that provides a nurturing, inclusive, and joyful environment supporting the artistic visions and needs of Artist Jenny Schefft paints during a dinner party for Unruly Arts at the Toledo Zoo's formal gardens on July 23. Attendees watch as artist Jenny Schefft paints during a dinner party for Unruly Arts at the Toledo Zoo's formal gardens on July 23. Sheri Plocek and artist Moody Shousher during a dinner party for Unruly Arts at the Toledo Zoo's formal gardens on July 23. Table settings and floral centerpieces await guests at a dinner party for Unruly Arts at the Toledo Zoo's formal gardens on July 23. Sisters Amanda Lyons and Shea Lambert attend a dinner party for Unruly Arts at the Toledo Zoo's formal gardens on July 23. Joanne Lindsay, Pat Nowak, Karen and Tom Cole, and Bob Kose attend a dinner party for Unruly Arts at the Toledo Zoo's formal gardens on July 23. Artist Jonathan Somoza, right, enjoys drinks and hors d'oeuvres with family members, from left, Edmundo Somoza, Brigida Somoza, and Mark Somoza, during a dinner party for Unruly Arts at the Toledo Zoo's formal gardens on July 23. Guests mingle during a dinner party for Unruly Arts at the Toledo Zoo's formal gardens on July 23. Sisters Amanda Lyons and Shea Lambert attend a dinner party for Unruly Arts at the Toledo Zoo's formal gardens on July 23. Mezzo-soprano Julia Gries and soprano Sara Mortensen performed at the Party in the Park Christmas in July, accompanied by Artistic Director Kevin Bylsma. New Toledo Opera board member Myra Merritt-Grant. New Toledo Opera board member Jeffrey Green. New Toledo Opera board member James Hartung.