http://www.toledoblade.com The Latest News from Toledoblade.com (v5) Sun, 12 Jul 2026 02:33:47 GMT en-us hourly 1 https://www.toledoblade.com/sports/mud-hens/2026/07/11/mud-hens-hold-off-indians-4-3-win/stories/20260711117 https://www.toledoblade.com/sports/mud-hens/2026/07/11/mud-hens-hold-off-indians-4-3-win/stories/20260711117#comments Sun, 12 Jul 2026 02:38:37 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/sports/mud-hens/2026/07/11/mud-hens-hold-off-indians-4-3-win/stories/20260711117 INDIANAPOLIS — The Toledo Mud Hens stopped their two-game skid, erasing an early deficit to hang on for a 4-3 victory over the Indianapolis Indians on Saturday. Dylan File pitches for the Toledo Mud Hens during game against the Iowa Cubs at Fifth Third Field in Toledo on June 30. https://www.toledoblade.com/sports/golf/2026/07/11/greater-classic-welcomes-full-epson-field-2nd-year/stories/20260712004 https://www.toledoblade.com/sports/golf/2026/07/11/greater-classic-welcomes-full-epson-field-2nd-year/stories/20260712004#comments Sat, 11 Jul 2026 22:32:52 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/sports/golf/2026/07/11/greater-classic-welcomes-full-epson-field-2nd-year/stories/20260712004 The Greater Toledo Classic is back on the Epson Tour for its second year, bringing another round of professional women’s golf to Highland Meadows Golf Club with a $250,000 purse. Greater Toledo Classic Tournament Director Judd Silverman speaks as Mia Hammond listens during media day on June 15 at Highland Meadows Golf Club in Sylvania. Mia Hammond putts on the 4th green, Greater Toledo Classic at Highland Meadows in 2025. Epson Tour sign, Greater Toledo Classic, is displayed in 2025. https://www.toledoblade.com/sports/golf/2026/07/11/haeran-ryu-sets-lpga-major-record-lead-evian-championship/stories/20260711115 https://www.toledoblade.com/sports/golf/2026/07/11/haeran-ryu-sets-lpga-major-record-lead-evian-championship/stories/20260711115#comments Sat, 11 Jul 2026 19:49:12 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/sports/golf/2026/07/11/haeran-ryu-sets-lpga-major-record-lead-evian-championship/stories/20260711115 EVIAN-LES-BAINS, France — Haeran Ryu set the scoring record for LPGA majors on Saturday with an 11-under 60, giving the South Korean player a three-shot lead in the Evian Championship as she goes for a second straight major. Haeran Ryu, of South Korea, reacts on the 18th green after a putt during the final round of the Women's PGA Championship golf tournament at Hazeltine National Golf Club on June 28 in Chaska, Minn. https://www.toledoblade.com/sports/golf/2026/07/11/golf-fans-excited-to-see-up-and-coming-stars-of-the-sport/stories/20260712005 https://www.toledoblade.com/sports/golf/2026/07/11/golf-fans-excited-to-see-up-and-coming-stars-of-the-sport/stories/20260712005#comments Sat, 11 Jul 2026 08:30:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/sports/golf/2026/07/11/golf-fans-excited-to-see-up-and-coming-stars-of-the-sport/stories/20260712005 Area golf fans had the chance to watch the future stars of the sport in person at Highland Meadows Golf Club last summer, and they will be afforded another opportunity to see the future LPGA players at the second Greater Toledo Classic next weekend. Mia Hammond hits a fairway shot on the 7th hole, Greater Toledo Classic at Highland Meadows on Saturday, July 26, 2025. Juli Inkster lines up a putt, Greater Toledo Classic, Friday, July 25, 2025. Last year's tournament featured an LPGA Legends competition alongside the Epson Tour event. Leta Lindley pours champagn on Angela Stanford after she wins the LPGA Legends tournament, Greater Toledo Classic at Highland Meadows on July 27, 2025. Last year's tournament featured an LPGA Legends competition alongside the Epson Tour event. Laura Diaz chips out of the bunker on the 18th green, Greater Toledo Classic at Highland Meadows on July 27, 2025. Last year's tournament featured an LPGA Legends competition alongside the Epson Tour event. https://www.toledoblade.com/sports/golf/2026/07/11/greater-toledo-classic-hopes-to-show-community-s-resilience-through-charity-supp/stories/20260712002 https://www.toledoblade.com/sports/golf/2026/07/11/greater-toledo-classic-hopes-to-show-community-s-resilience-through-charity-supp/stories/20260712002#comments Sat, 11 Jul 2026 19:10:43 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/sports/golf/2026/07/11/greater-toledo-classic-hopes-to-show-community-s-resilience-through-charity-supp/stories/20260712002 A month before walking the fairways of Highland Meadows Golf Club, Mia Hammond walked the halls of the Ronald McDonald House. Patient champion Kennedy Berce, 7, selects club as last year’s Epson Tour tournament champion, Mia Hammond, sets up a tee during the Greater Toledo Classic media day June 15 at Highland Meadows Golf Club in Sylvania. Last year’s champion Mia Hammond, far right, watches as this year’s patient champions, from left, Kennedy Berce, 7, Isabelle Britt, 16, and Jazlyn Rocha, 12, learn to putt during the Greater Toledo Classic media day June 15 at Highland Meadows Golf Club in Sylvania. Isabelle Britt, 16, one of this year’s patient champions, practices her drive during the Greater Toledo Classic media day June 15 at Highland Meadows Golf Club in Sylvania. https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/music-theater-dance/2026/07/11/toledo-area-theatre-fest-makes-debut/stories/20260711111 https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/music-theater-dance/2026/07/11/toledo-area-theatre-fest-makes-debut/stories/20260711111#comments Sat, 11 Jul 2026 19:01:02 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/music-theater-dance/2026/07/11/toledo-area-theatre-fest-makes-debut/stories/20260711111 Move over, Roxie Hart. The name on everybody’s lips Saturday was festival, as the inaugural Toledo Area Theatre Fest turned the Historic Ohio Theatre into a shared stage for everyone from actors and directors to stagehands and superfans.  Over the course of eight hours, actors performed excerpts from their productions while vendors sold theater-themed goods, workshop leaders guided sessions on the craft behind the curtain, and audiences wandered through the Lagrange Street venue for a daylong celebration of local theater. "You really only get five or 10 minutes with somebody after a show," said Amber Wilkes, the festival’s organizer. "This is just a nice way for us all to be in the same room and celebrate with each other.” The festival was more than a year in the making. Ms. Wilkes, who has spent the past 15 years performing in community theater, said she and other volunteers planned the event with one goal in mind: creating a space where Toledo's theater community could gather to celebrate one another instead of compete. “Our theater community is huge," Ms. Wilkes said. “We need to get into a space and share resources and meet each other.” The curtain rises The festival brought together Toledo playmakers and playgoers from across the region, all eager to celebrate the community that keeps local theater in the spotlight.  And for these thespians, anything goes. The Village Players opened the festival with a rousing rendition of their upcoming show Nerdy Prudes Must Die, a tale that begins with typical high school angst but quickly spirals into a campy slasher comedy.  “It’s an honor that they asked us to perform,” said Nicole Tuttle-Robb, a performer with the Village Players. “So many people have put so much hard work into this event, and to be in a group that opens it is really awesome.” Other performances included Stone Production’s Jagged Little Pill, a jukebox musical based on Alanis Morissette's 90s grunge anthems; Oregon Community Theatre’s riotous romp The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) [Revised] {Again},  and HappyPlace Production’s pairing of the heavenly Forever Plaid and the feline mega-musical Cats. The festival also showcased new work, including selections from local playwright Imelda Hunt. Between musical numbers and monologues, local vendors and theater organizations welcomed attendees with merchandise and opportunities to connect. "There are so many community theaters in the area that it can get very hard to keep up with it," said Taylor Blum of Paulette's Studio of Dance. "They’ve done a great job of bringing everybody together." Learning the craft Next door to the main stage, a series of workshops offered attendees a glimpse of what goes on backstage.  Participants learned the choreography behind convincing onstage slaps and swordplay during a stage combat session, explored how lighting design can transform a production, and attended introductory classes for those looking to step into the spotlight for the first time. Ryan Jewell, preparing for his first turn as a music director, said the "Auditioning 101" workshop helped him better understand the actor's perspective. Jai Long led a workshop on the role of intimacy coordinators: specially trained professionals who choreograph intimate scenes and help ensure performers' safety and consent. "Theater is meant to be fun, and theater can be fun if everyone feels safe and respected in that environment," Long said. Long, who is a certified intimacy coordinator, believes education and advocacy are essential as the profession continues to grow. They said the role has become another specialized and necessary part of theater production, much like fight choreography or costume design. Between workshops, attendees browsed a pop-up theater thrift store stocked with theatrical keepsakes, from stacks of vintage Playbills to used character shoes.  An encore-worthy experience Throughout the day, organizers and performers proved Toledo is home to far more than one singular sensation, with numerous theater companies fueling one of the region's most vibrant arts communities. Ms. Wilkes quickly deemed the inaugural festival a success while thinking ahead to the next act. She said she hopes to expand next year's event with a dedicated day of children's theater, additional youth workshops, and even broader participation from theater groups across northwest Ohio. In a city with no shortage of stages, Ms. Wilkes said Toledo Area Theatre Fest gave the people who fill them a stage of their own — proving there truly is no business like show business. Members of the Toledo Repertoire Theater sing Christmas carols during the first Toledo Area Theater Fest at The Historic Ohio Theatre in Toledo on July 11. Attendees applaud after members of the Toledo Repertoire Theater sing Christmas carols during the first Toledo Area Theater Fest at The Historic Ohio Theatre in Toledo on July 11. Tom Reed sings Christmas carols alongside other members of the Toledo Repertoire Theater during the first Toledo Area Theater Fest at The Historic Ohio Theatre in Toledo on July 11. Rick Clever instructs a light and sound design workshop during the first Toledo Area Theater Fest at The Historic Ohio Theatre in Toledo on July 11. Members of the Toledo Repertoire Theater sing Christmas carols during the first Toledo Area Theater Fest at The Historic Ohio Theatre in Toledo on July 11. Attendees browse booths inside The Historic Ohio Theatre during the first Toledo Area Theater Fest in Toledo on July 11. Dawn Kingman conducts the Toledo Repertoire Theater in singing Christmas carols during the first Toledo Area Theater Fest at The Historic Ohio Theatre in Toledo on July 11. An attendee wanders around The Historic Ohio Theatre during the first Toledo Area Theater Fest in Toledo on July 11. https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/11/elementary-students-play-mock-world-cup-fund-raiser/stories/20260711108 https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/11/elementary-students-play-mock-world-cup-fund-raiser/stories/20260711108#comments Sat, 11 Jul 2026 18:41:40 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/11/elementary-students-play-mock-world-cup-fund-raiser/stories/20260711108 Toledo-area children got their own version of the World Cup on Saturday. The Netherlands and Mexico play during a World Cup-themed tournament hosted by Maumee High School's girls soccer team on July 11 at Kazmaier Stadium in Maumee. Team USA coach Amanda Wilhelm celebrates a goal with her team during a World Cup-themed tournament hosted by Maumee High School's girls soccer team on July 11 at Kazmaier Stadium in Maumee. Team Argentina shakes hands with Team USA during a World Cup-themed tournament hosted by Maumee High School's girls soccer team on July 11 at Kazmaier Stadium in Maumee. Joseph Leffler moves past a defender during a World Cup-themed tournament hosted by Maumee High School's girls soccer team on July 11, 2026 at Kazmaier Stadium in Maumee. The Netherlands and Mexico play during a World Cup-themed tournament hosted by Maumee High School's girls soccer team on July 11 at Kazmaier Stadium in Maumee. Team USA coach Amanda Hamilton celebrates a goal during a World Cup-themed tournament hosted by Maumee High School's girls soccer team on July 11 at Kazmaier Stadium in Maumee. Players on Team Brazil sit on the sidelines during a World Cup-themed tournament hosted by Maumee High School's girls soccer team on July 11 at Kazmaier Stadium in Maumee. Argentina and the United States play during a World Cup-themed tournament hosted by Maumee High School's girls soccer team on July 11 at Kazmaier Stadium in Maumee. https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/art/2026/07/11/photo-gallery-ohio-s-homecoming-and-picnic/stories/20260711113 https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/art/2026/07/11/photo-gallery-ohio-s-homecoming-and-picnic/stories/20260711113#comments Sat, 11 Jul 2026 18:22:32 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/art/2026/07/11/photo-gallery-ohio-s-homecoming-and-picnic/stories/20260711113 Children and adults participate in the Ohio’s Homecoming and Picnic at the Toledo Museum of Art on Saturday. Margaret Malenda makes bubbles during the Ohio’s Homecoming and Picnic at the Toledo Museum of Art on July 11. Children make hats using tissue paper during Ohio’s Homecoming and Picnic at the Toledo Museum of Art on July 11. Megan Barborak, dressed as Amelia Earhart, tosses a ring to Brianna McKeen, dressed as Annie Oakley, during the Ohio’s Homecoming and Picnic at the Toledo Museum of Art on July 11. Brian Dreier-Morgan speaks to attendees during Ohio’s Homecoming and Picnic at the Toledo Museum of Art on July 11. Performers with the Bird's Eye View Circus traverse the Glass Pavilion's grounds during Ohio’s Homecoming and Picnic at the Toledo Museum of Art on July 11. Morgan with Bird's Eye View circus performs during the Ohio’s Homecoming and Picnic at the Toledo Museum of Art on July 11. Performers with the Bird's Eye View Circus traverse the Glass Pavilion's grounds during Ohio’s Homecoming and Picnic at the Toledo Museum of Art on July 11. Swag items sit on America 250-Ohio Commission's table during the Ohio’s Homecoming and Picnic at the Toledo Museum of Art on July 11. Gabriella Knuth pops a bubble during Ohio’s Homecoming and Picnic at the Toledo Museum of Art on July 11. https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/11/photo-gallery-ultimate-survivor-challenge/stories/20260711112 https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/11/photo-gallery-ultimate-survivor-challenge/stories/20260711112#comments Sat, 11 Jul 2026 18:02:21 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/11/photo-gallery-ultimate-survivor-challenge/stories/20260711112 Participants competed in the Ultimate Survivor Challenge at Side Cut Metropark in Maumee on Saturday. Dan Anderson, Cooper Anderson, David Schwartz, and Wesley Anderson participate in a team skis challenge while competing in the Ultimate Survivor Challenge at Side Cut Metropark in Maumee on July 11. Tom Ramler lifts a log to complete a tipi building challenge while competing in the Ultimate Survivor Challenge at Side Cut Metropark in Maumee on July 11. Erin Collins and Emily Peters lift logs to build a tipi while competing in the Ultimate Survivor Challenge at Side Cut Metropark in Maumee on July 11. Tara Crom takes a selfie with Becca Siegley to show their completed tipi while competing in the Ultimate Survivor Challenge at Side Cut Metropark in Maumee on July 11. Erin Collins and Emily Peters untangle a rope to unlock a treasure chest while competing in the Ultimate Survivor Challenge at Side Cut Metropark in Maumee on July 11. https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/toledo-magazine/2026/07/11/take-in-something-golden-this-summer-a-walk-in-the-oak-openings-region/stories/20260726002 https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/toledo-magazine/2026/07/11/take-in-something-golden-this-summer-a-walk-in-the-oak-openings-region/stories/20260726002#comments Sat, 11 Jul 2026 15:30:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/toledo-magazine/2026/07/11/take-in-something-golden-this-summer-a-walk-in-the-oak-openings-region/stories/20260726002 The Irwin Prairie State Nature Preserve is one of Ohio's last remaining tallgrass prairies, a fragile stretch of the rare Oak Openings region. Some Ohio preserves hold special hunts to manage deer populations, but this one bars hunting altogether because, as a state nature preserve, its rare meadow must be protected from foot traffic. The boardwalk is located at Irwin Prairie Nature Preserve in Holland on June 27. Swamp milkweed are featured at Irwin Prairie Nature Preserve in Holland on June 27. A bee sits on butterfly milkweed at Irwin Prairie Nature Preserve in Holland on June 27. A lady bug sits on water hemlock at Irwin Prairie Nature Preserve in Holland on June 27. The boardwalk at Irwin Prairie Nature Preserve in Holland on June 27. Wildflowers sit in a field at Irwin Prairie Nature Preserve in Holland. Water hemlock grows at Irwin Prairie Nature Preserve in Holland. A person walks along the trail at Irwin Prairie Nature Preserve in Holland. Two benches sit on either side of the trail at Irwin Prairie Nature Preserve in Holland. Ferns at Irwin Prairie Nature Preserve in Holland. Clouds pass over The Spot at Oak Openings Preserve Metropark in Swanton. https://www.toledoblade.com/news/nation/2026/07/11/trump-administration-subpoenas-journalists-security-concerns-air-force-one/stories/20260711107 https://www.toledoblade.com/news/nation/2026/07/11/trump-administration-subpoenas-journalists-security-concerns-air-force-one/stories/20260711107#comments Sat, 11 Jul 2026 13:50:56 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/news/nation/2026/07/11/trump-administration-subpoenas-journalists-security-concerns-air-force-one/stories/20260711107 Four New York Times journalists who reported on security concerns surrounding a Qatari-gifted jet serving as the new Air Force One have been subpoenaed by the Justice Department, the news outlet reported early Saturday. Subpoenas suggest that the Trump administration is trying to find out who leaked to the Times before the news organization reported this past Wednesday that President Donald Trump left Turkey this week on the old Air Force One over security concerns from the Secret Service. https://www.toledoblade.com/news/World/2026/07/11/china-evacuates1-million-typhoon-bavi/stories/20260711106 https://www.toledoblade.com/news/World/2026/07/11/china-evacuates1-million-typhoon-bavi/stories/20260711106#comments Sat, 11 Jul 2026 11:33:53 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/news/World/2026/07/11/china-evacuates1-million-typhoon-bavi/stories/20260711106 TAIPEI, Taiwan — Chinese authorities evacuated more than one million people on Saturday and issued high alerts as eastern China braced for Typhoon Bavi, which has brought strong winds and rain to Japan's southern islands and Taiwan. In this photo released by Xinhua News Agency, a security person cordons off the coastal area ahead of Typhoon Bavi's expected arrival in Shitang Town of Wenling City, eastern China's Zhejiang Province, on July 10. People struggle with umbrella in a rain caused by Typhoon Bavi in Taichung, Taiwan, on July 11. People make their way in a rain caused by Typhoon Bavi in Taichung, Taiwan, on July 11. https://www.toledoblade.com/sports/bgsu/2026/07/11/bgsu-hockey-holds-high-hopes-ahead-loaded-2026-27-season/stories/20260710089 https://www.toledoblade.com/sports/bgsu/2026/07/11/bgsu-hockey-holds-high-hopes-ahead-loaded-2026-27-season/stories/20260710089#comments Sat, 11 Jul 2026 14:00:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/sports/bgsu/2026/07/11/bgsu-hockey-holds-high-hopes-ahead-loaded-2026-27-season/stories/20260710089 BOWLING GREEN — The Bowling Green State University hockey program is ready to assert itself on the national stage during the 2026-27 season. With returning talent and a loaded schedule, the upcoming campaign provides the opportunity to do so in coach Dennis Williams’ third season at the helm.  Kicking off proceedings is a home-and-home set against Michigan (Oct. 2 and 3), a nine-time national champion and Frozen Four participant from a year ago. The Wolverines ended their season in the semifinals to eventual title winner, the University of Denver, who the Falcons will also host (Jan. 1 and 2).  2026-27 BGSU hockey schedule Oct. 2 (Fri.) at Michigan, TBA Oct. 3 (Sat.) Michigan, 6:07 p.m Oct. 9 (Fri.) at Sacred Heart (Ice Breaker), 7 p.m. Oct. 10 (Sat.) at Connecticut (Ice Breaker), TBA Oct. 16 (Fri.) Niagara, 7:07 p.m. Oct. 17 (Sat.) Niagara, 6:07 p.m. Oct. 23 (Fri.) at Lake Superior State, 7:07 p.m. Oct. 24 (Sat.) at Lake Superior State, 7:07 p.m. Nov. 6 (Fri.) Bemidji State, 7:07 p.m. Nov. 7 (Sat.) Bemidji State, 6:07 p.m. Nov. 13 (Fri.) at Northern Michigan, 7:07 p.m. Nov. 14 (Sat.) at Northern Michigan, 6:07 p.m. Nov. 20 (Fri.) Augustana, 7:07 p.m. Nov. 21 (Sat.) Augustana, 6:07 p.m. Nov. 25 (Wed.) at Notre Dame, TBA Nov. 27 (Fri.) Maryville, 7:07 p.m. Nov. 28 (Sat.) Maryville, 6:07 p.m. Dec. 4 (Fri.) at Minnesota State, 8:07 p.m. Dec. 5 (Sat.) at Minnesota State, 7:07 p.m. Dec. 11 (Fri.) Ferris State, 7:07 p.m. Dec. 12 (Sat.) Ferris State, 6:07 p.m. Dec. 28 (Mon.) at USA Hockey NTDP, TBA Jan. 1 (Fri.) Denver, 7:07 p.m. Jan. 2 (Sat.) Denver, 6:07 p.m. Jan. 8 (Fri.) Lake Superior State, 7:07 p.m. Jan. 9 (Sat.) Lake Superior State, 6:07 p.m. Jan. 15 (Fri.) at Bemidji State, 8:07 p.m. Jan. 16 (Sat.) at Bemidji State, 7:07 p.m. Jan. 22 (Fri.) Minnesota State, 7:07 p.m. Jan. 23 (Sat.) Minnesota State, 6:07 p.m. Feb. 5 (Fri.) Northern Michigan, 7:07 p.m. Feb. 6 (Sat.) Northern Michigan, 6:07 p.m. Feb. 12 (Fri.) at Augustana, 8:07 p.m. Feb. 13 (Sat.) at Augustana, 7:07 p.m. Feb. 19 (Fri.) Michigan Tech, 7:07 p.m. Feb. 20 (Sat.) Michigan Tech, 6:07 p.m. Feb. 26 (Fri.) at Ferris State, 7:07 p.m. Feb. 27 (Sat.) at Ferris State, 6:07 p.m. March 5 (Fri.) CCHA Quarterfinals, TBA March 13 (Sat.) CCHA Semifinals, TBA March 19 (Fri.) CCHA Championship, TBA Add in another Big Ten date with Notre Dame (Nov. 25), and BGSU has plenty of notable clashes set in its non-conference slate.  “When I got hired here, these were the teams that I wanted to play,” Williams said. “These are teams that we should want to play for not only ourselves, in terms of looking for a benchmark, but for our fans, our university, our alumni, and everybody involved. At the end of the day, I think it’s important for us to put ourselves in the position to play schools like Michigan … for us to be able to go up there and for them to come down to us, I think it speaks volumes to where our program is heading.” Production returns across the board at forward, defensemen, and goaltender. That includes an experienced upcoming senior class and returning sophomores from last year’s standout group of freshmen.  Last season, It was a highly competitive race in the Central Collegiate Hockey Association. The Falcons finished fifth in the conference with 49 points, slightly trailing No. 1 seed and eventual Mason Cup winner Minnesota State (51 points).  “Last year, I thought we took really big steps as a program,” Williams said. “We want to continue to build and gain more momentum. I think last year was a really good step, but it’s going to be a battle ... we want to play the top teams in the country right now, so we can find out what we are as a program, and find out what we have to do to get to that stature.”  Three of the top four points leaders return to lead the attack, as forwards Ben Doran (31 points) and Tyler Hotson (28 points) are back alongside fellow senior Breck McKinley (26 points) on defense.  Sophomores like the defensive duo of Brayden Crampton (18 points) and Ty Higgins (11 points), along with forward Dominik Rymon (22 points) and goaltender Jacob Steinman (.921 save percentage), highlight some of the returning second-year Falcons. Given the returning quality and recent program track record, the expectation of continued growth from Williams is matched by his players. “Every single year I’ve been here, especially under coach Williams, we’ve gotten better and better,” Doran said. “I feel like we’re more competitive every year. I know especially for the guys on our team, the goal is to go all the way, and we feel like we have a great group to do it this year. “Talking to all the guys in my class, and even all the guys on the team, I think anything other than a Mason Cup would be short for us. That’s something that we have the ability to do, and that’s everybody’s goal on the team.”  For Williams, certain qualities stand out for the upcoming year. Those are the returning senior leadership, the continued growth of younger players, and the return of two starting-caliber goaltenders in Steinman and Tyler Palmer.  Regarding talent retention, Williams credits his desire of developing professionally minded hockey players and the buy-in from his group into that philosophy.  With confidence high in the offseason, the Falcons are planning to string together needle-moving performances this upcoming season.  “Being a competitive player, all you want is to play the top teams that everyone talks about,” Crampton said. “You try to get your name out there, and obviously Bowling Green has the chance to do so. We have a great program behind us, and great coaching. I talked with [coach Williams], and he’s really trying to push to play these top-end teams, because that’s where we believe that we’re at. We believe that we can compete and make a dent in the conference and push to make the tournament. I’m really excited to see what our group can do and see what kind of damage we can do.” Bowling Green’s Brayden Crampton, left, faces Notre Dame’s Carter Slaggert during a college hockey game between Bowling Green State University and the University of Notre Dame at BGSU’s Slater Family Ice Arena in Bowling Green on Jan. 31. Bowling Green’s Ben Doran tries to steal the puck from Minnesota State’s Charlie Lurie during a college hockey game at BGSU’s Slater Family Ice Arena in Bowling Green, on Feb. 21. https://www.toledoblade.com/business/agriculture/2026/07/11/specialty-farmers-adapt-harvests-protect-crops-extreme-heat/stories/20260711014 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/agriculture/2026/07/11/specialty-farmers-adapt-harvests-protect-crops-extreme-heat/stories/20260711014#comments Sat, 11 Jul 2026 12:00:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/agriculture/2026/07/11/specialty-farmers-adapt-harvests-protect-crops-extreme-heat/stories/20260711014 BROOKSVILLE, Ky. — Even as the sun started to set, the day’s heat was still hanging in the air as Annie Woods walked back out to harvest squash and zucchini on her 50-acre farm. Annie Woods harvests eightball, a type of zucchini, as the sun sets July 1 at her farm in Brooksville, Ky. The sun sets July 1 over a farm in Brooksville, Ky. Annie Woods takes a drink of water while harvesting July 1 at her farm in Brooksville, Ky. Annie Woods harvests squash July 1 at her farm in Brooksville, Ky. A poblano pepper grows inside a greenhouse July 1 at a farm in Brooksville, Ky. Crops grow inside a greenhouse as fans run to keep the temperature down July 1 at a farm in Brooksville, Ky. Heat-damaged celery rests in a tray inside a greenhouse July 1 at a farm in Brooksville, Ky. Trays of seedlings sit inside a cabinet to keep cool July 1 at a farm in Brooksville, Ky. Celery grows inside a greenhouse July 1 at a farm in Brooksville, Ky. A cat pauses between rows of crops waiting for planting July 1 at a farm in Brooksville, Ky. Annie Woods inspects herbs while harvesting July 1 at her farm in Brooksville, Ky. Annie Woods lifts a crate of squash and zucchini while harvesting July 1 at her farm in Brooksville, Ky. Japanese beetles damage okra plant leaves July 1 at a farm in Brooksville, Ky. Annie Woods holds zucchini while harvesting produce July 1 at her farm in Brooksville, Ky. Annie Woods loads a crate of harvested produce into her farm vehicle July 1 in Brooksville, Ky. https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/07/11/behind-the-wheel-the-best-used-sedans-for-under-15-000/stories/20260711012 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/07/11/behind-the-wheel-the-best-used-sedans-for-under-15-000/stories/20260711012#comments Sat, 11 Jul 2026 10:45:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/07/11/behind-the-wheel-the-best-used-sedans-for-under-15-000/stories/20260711012 According to Edmunds data, the average transaction price of a 3-year-old used vehicle is more than $30,000. This is a big discount compared with buying new, but it’s still potentially out of reach financially for a lot of people. Fortunately, spending about half that can still get you a car with a compelling combination of comfort, reliability, fuel economy, and modern technology. The Honda Civic is a longtime popular choice for a small sedan that offers peppy acceleration and solid fuel economy as well as solid construction. Aim to find a 2016 Civic, pictured, the year it received a redesign and a new optional turbocharged engine. The Kia Forte is a stylish and quiet small sedan that offers an extensive list of available features. The 2019-2021 model years should work with a $15,000 budget cap. The Mazda 3 is a small sedan with a sense of style to match its fun-to-drive demeanor. Buyers should look for a third-generation model produced from 2014 through 2018. The Toyota Corolla is a sensible, comfortable choice for a small sedan that offers an appealing list of advanced driver assist features. You should be able to find a 2015 to 2017 Corolla for under $15,000. The Chevrolet Malibu is a midsize sedan that offers more space for passengers and their cargo than the other sedans on this list. The 2019 Malibu, pictured, is worth a look for its revised styling and updated infotainment tech. https://www.toledoblade.com/local/courts/2026/07/11/a-jury-your-peers-why-deliberation-rooms-often-dont-reflect-county-racial-makeup/stories/20260707090 https://www.toledoblade.com/local/courts/2026/07/11/a-jury-your-peers-why-deliberation-rooms-often-dont-reflect-county-racial-makeup/stories/20260707090#comments Sat, 11 Jul 2026 11:21:23 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/local/courts/2026/07/11/a-jury-your-peers-why-deliberation-rooms-often-dont-reflect-county-racial-makeup/stories/20260707090 In 2000, a report by the Ohio Courts Futures Commission conceived of a vision for courts in the year 2025 — one in which jury pools “reflect the full diversity of the communities they serve.” Lucas County jury pools often do not reflect the county's racial makeup, prompting questions about how jurors are selected and whether changes are needed. Ronnie Wingate, a Toledo defense attorney, said he has long seen jury panels that do not reflect Lucas County's racial makeup and believes that disparity can undermine defendants' confidence that they will receive a fair trial. Judge Joseph McNamara of the Lucas County Court of Common Pleas said jury pools should better reflect the community's racial makeup, arguing that more representative juries can help guard against implicit bias in the courtroom. Judge McNamara is shown July 2 at the Lucas County Courthouse in Toledo. Delveon Lear, right, speaks with his attorney during his aggravated murder trial June 12 at the Lucas County Courthouse in Toledo. The trial, which ended in convictions for Lear and his brother, is highlighted in a broader examination of why jury pools often do not reflect Lucas County's racial makeup. Diamani Lear listens during his aggravated murder trial June 12 at the Lucas County Courthouse in Toledo. The trial, which ended in convictions for Lear and his brother, is highlighted in a broader examination of why jury pools often do not reflect Lucas County's racial makeup. Gretchen DeBacker, who has defended clients in Lucas County for 20 years, could not recall ever before having stood in front of a jury that lacked any minority representation. But she said she has seen jury pools over time get less representative of the county, which is 20.5 percent Black, according to U.S. Census estimates. Fletcher Word, publisher of the Sojourner's Truth, said historical distrust of the criminal justice system and economic barriers can make some Black residents less likely to respond to jury summonses, contributing to less representative jury pools. David Klucas, a Lucas County defense attorney, said he has seen jury pools with few or no minority members and believes Black residents are consistently underrepresented among prospective jurors. Kurt Bruderly, a Lucas County defense attorney, said Black defendants often worry about whether they'll be judged by a jury that reflects their community, adding that he's seen cases in which those concerns influenced whether a client chose a jury trial or accepted a plea. Kathy Tucker, former board president of Women of Toledo, said more diverse juries can bring a broader range of life experiences into deliberations and help balance the biases that individual jurors may bring into the courtroom. Bernie Quilter, Lucas County clerk of courts, oversaw the county's annual jury draw and said the computer-generated selection process is random and does not discriminate. Judge Ian English of the Lucas County Court of Common Pleas said the racial makeup of a jury does not determine whether a trial is fair, arguing that jurors are committed to reaching impartial verdicts based on the evidence. Judge Joseph McNamara of the Lucas County Court of Common Pleas said jury pools should better reflect the community's racial makeup, arguing that more representative juries can help guard against implicit bias in the courtroom. Judge McNamara is shown July 2 at the Lucas County Courthouse in Toledo. Judge Joseph McNamara of the Lucas County Court of Common Pleas said jury pools should better reflect the community's racial makeup, arguing that more representative juries can help guard against implicit bias in the courtroom. Judge McNamara is shown July 2 at the Lucas County Courthouse in Toledo. https://www.toledoblade.com/business/technology/2026/07/11/ai-powering-economy-americans-falling-behind/stories/20260711008 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/technology/2026/07/11/ai-powering-economy-americans-falling-behind/stories/20260711008#comments Sat, 11 Jul 2026 10:00:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/technology/2026/07/11/ai-powering-economy-americans-falling-behind/stories/20260711008 At the Richmond Neighborhood Center in San Francisco, more than 200 people are on the waitlist for the food pantry. The center is just a couple of miles west of “AI Alley,” where a cluster of major AI companies take in billions of dollars in investments and pay out high salaries to employees — in turn making home prices and rent payments soar. An aerial view of the downtown San Francisco skyline is seen in 2025. https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/food/2026/07/11/maddie-knows-best-odd-food-combinations-and-seasonal-recipes/stories/20260712023 https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/food/2026/07/11/maddie-knows-best-odd-food-combinations-and-seasonal-recipes/stories/20260712023#comments Sat, 11 Jul 2026 11:00:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/food/2026/07/11/maddie-knows-best-odd-food-combinations-and-seasonal-recipes/stories/20260712023 What flavors/foods sound like a bad idea but actually go really well together? Whole wheat crackers with peanut butter and cheese https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/food/2026/07/11/crafted-still-syrups-company-provides-flavor-intention/stories/20260712011 https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/food/2026/07/11/crafted-still-syrups-company-provides-flavor-intention/stories/20260712011#comments Sat, 11 Jul 2026 13:30:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/food/2026/07/11/crafted-still-syrups-company-provides-flavor-intention/stories/20260712011 Making drinks is a creative outlet for longtime bartender Logan Cook. An apricot lemonade made using Still Syrups sits at Logan Cook’s booth at the Maumee Farmer's Market on July 8 in Maumee. Debbie Westmeyer and her daughter, Maddie, tries a sample next to her friend, Addison Greenwalt at the Still Syrups booth at the Maumee Farmer's Market on July 8 in Maumee. Logan Cook, founder of Still Syrups, makes a lemonade using his syrup at the Maumee Farmer's Market on July 8 in Maumee. Logan Cook, founder of Still Syrups, and his friend, Dawson Engel, stand holding drinks made using his syrups at the Maumee Farmer's Market on July 8 in Maumee. Logan Cook, founder of Still Syrups, makes a drink using his syrup while his friend, Dawson Engel, watches at the Maumee Farmer's Market on July 8 in Maumee. Still Syrups sit at Logan Cook’s booth at the Maumee Farmer's Market on July 8 in Maumee. Logan Cook, founder of Still Syrups, pours Debbie Westmeyer a syrup sample while his friend, Dawson Engel, watches at the Maumee Farmer's Market on July 8 in Maumee. Still Syrups with flavors such as apricot, chai, hibiscus, and more sit at Logan Cook’s booth Maumee Farmer's Market on July 8 in Maumee. Logan Cook, founder of Still Syrups, pours Addison Greenwalt a syrup sample while his friend, Dawson Engel, asks with customers at the Maumee Farmer's Market on July 8 in Maumee. https://www.toledoblade.com/opinion/editorials/2026/07/10/editorial-cuba-embargo-shameful/stories/20260711009 https://www.toledoblade.com/opinion/editorials/2026/07/10/editorial-cuba-embargo-shameful/stories/20260711009#comments Sat, 11 Jul 2026 03:45:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/opinion/editorials/2026/07/10/editorial-cuba-embargo-shameful/stories/20260711009 America’s strangling of Cuba by way of a total energy embargo is making life difficult, approaching impossible, for the people of that country. Cuba’s missed tourism opportunities are not America’s business, and therefore not President Trump’s business.