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🌱 Patch AM: Why is the Toledo Zoo ending a beloved teen disability program?

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Sunday September 20th Patch AM
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Coffee in hand, Toledo? We've got the latest town updates for you. Keep reading to stay in the loop. ☀️

In today's newsletter:

  • Why is the Toledo Zoo ending a beloved teen disability program?
  • How will Chief Armstrong's injuries affect Toledo's fire services?
  • How Toledo union members linked Labor Day fun with safety advocacy.

Also on today's calendar: Oktoberfest and 9 more events.

Today's riddle: What do an island and the letter "t" have in common? 🤔 (Answer below!)

Weather forecast:

  • Sunday: Occasional rain and a t-storm, with a high of 66 and low of 57 degrees.
  • Monday: Breezy with a shower in spots, temps: high: 65, low: 55.
  • Tuesday: Cloudy with a shower or two, with a high of 65 and low of 56 degrees.

📰 News we're reading

1. Toledo Zoo ends program that opened doors for teens with disabilities (toledoblade.com) — Families in Toledo are reacting with shock as the Toledo Zoo prepares to end its ADaPT program on Sept. 30, a long-running volunteer track for teens with disabilities. Parents, former participants, and supporters say the program built independence and community, and they're now organizing letters, meetings, and even a video project from downtown Toledo to urge zoo leaders to reconsider or find a way to continue its benefits.
   

2. Toledo's fire chief injured in hit-and-run crash out of state while attending firefighter conference (13abc.com) — Toledo Fire and Rescue Chief Allison Armstrong is recovering from significant injuries after a hit-and-run crash in Colorado while she was attending a firefighter conference. The at-fault driver allegedly fled but was later arrested, and Armstrong says she faces a difficult few weeks or months of recovery. City residents may see temporary impacts on fire department leadership as she heals.
   

3. SMART-TD Highlights Nationwide Labor Day 2026 Events (constructionowners.com) — Toledo union members took part in the city's 2026 Labor Day parade, marching alongside state representatives and other unions to spotlight transportation safety and legislative priorities. Their participation was part of a broader wave of SMART-TD Labor Day events nationwide, from parades to picket lines, underscoring how local workers connect with a larger labor movement.
   

4. John Alan Richter tosses 4 TDs as Toledo rallies past Temple 49-48 in overtime (newser.com) — Toledo football fans just watched a thriller at home, as quarterback John Alan Richter led the Rockets back from 14 points down to edge Temple 49-48 in overtime. After recovering an onside kick, Toledo tied the game late, then held off a two-point try in OT. The Rockets now prepare to host San Diego State in Toledo next Saturday.
   

5. Predicting Lake Erie's harmful algal blooms months before they appear (msu.edu) — Toledo's position at the mouth of the Maumee River makes it central to how harmful algal blooms in western Lake Erie are forecast and managed, especially after the 2014 drinking water crisis. Scientists now use phosphorus levels, rainfall, and satellite data to predict bloom size and movement months and days ahead, helping protect local water supplies, recreation, and the regional economy.
   

📸 Around Toledo

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💬 Chatter

What your neighbors are talking about on social media

  • Tonight we tried a new place, and it was delicious!
    I had the Toledo Steak sandwich; my bride had the hot turkey with bacon. We were both very impressed. Grandma's potato salad had pickles, which made… (Nextdoor Beverly-Harvard)
  • It is not too early to start your holiday chores.
    I am an energetic person who always goes the extra mile. If you are a non smoking household, I can help with organizing your home, light housekeeping… (Nextdoor Point Place West)

Ok Toledo! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!

-- The Patch AM Team

P.S. The answer to today's riddle: They are both in the middle of water. (Thank you Curt K. for sending it in!)
Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Submit it here!

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