🌱 Racist Incident At Ottawa Hills School + Another Crash Closes I-475

Hello, friends! I'm back in your inbox this morning with all the most important things happening these days in Toledo. In this issue, you'll find news about...

• Ottawa Hills School District is investigating after a racist slur was briefly projected at the junior/senior high school Monday.
• With construction on I-475 expected to continue through 2024, the Ohio State Highway Patrol cautions drivers to slow down as more than 25,000 crashes have occurred in work zones since 2018.
• Women of Toledo hosted more than 300 people for International Women's Day Wednesday, including Toledoan Negarina Cooper, who spoke about oppression in Iran after she fled the country at 23 years old.

But first, today's weather:

Times of clouds and sun. High: 39 Low: 33.

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Here are the top five stories in Toledo today:

1. Ottawa Hills School District is investigating after a racist slur was briefly projected at the junior/senior high school Monday. Superintendent Adam Fineske said the student has been punished but will also undergo equality education. School Board Vice President Adam Smidi lamented the "painful step backward for the school." (WTOL)
2. The automotive industry is seeing a rise in positions filled by women, with female workers like AAA Safety Director Kelli Barnes are part of a 35% increase of in-fleet operations roles for the company. Local opportunities like Penta Career Center's automotive program offers students the chance to leave with "probably more than 28 credentials,” according to student Audrey Gossett. (WTOL)
3. With construction on I-475 expected to continue through 2024, the Ohio State Highway Patrol cautions drivers to slow down as more than 25,000 crashes have occurred in work zones since 2018. A portion near Dussel Drive was closed Tuesday morning after a crash involving a semi-truck and a vehicle. (WTVG)
4. Plymouth Police discovered Jeannette Cobb, 82, and Charles Cobb, 83, deceased from apparent gunshot wounds during a "well being check" on Monday. The Lucas County medical examiner will perform an autopsy while an investigation is underway with Plymouth and Huron county agencies. (WTVG)
5. Women of Toledo hosted more than 300 people for International Women's Day Wednesday, including Toledoan Negarina Cooper, who spoke about oppression in Iran after she fled the country at 23 years old. Cooper shared her story, including her ability to work as a performer in the U.S. — something outlawed for her in Iran. (WNWO NBC 24)

Today in Toledo:

• Matthew Fries at Lucille's Jazz Lounge (6:15 PM)
• Poetry & Soul Colours - The Truth - 1811 Adams St. (7:00 PM)
• Bending Minds and Dreaming Louder w/ Turtledoves - Dream Louder Studio (7:00 PM)
• Women's Right to Vote! The 19th Amendment : Historical Lecture - Benfield Wines (7:00 PM)
• Toledo Irish American Club St. Patrick's Blowout Event - St. Clement Hall (6:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• The Toledo Fire & Rescue Department boasts a more diverse crew than the average, with several positions filled by women and underrepresented populations. Chief Allison Armstrong shared her thoughts with WNWO on International Women's Day Wednesday. (WNWO NBC 24)
• Gabrielle "Gabby" Mukiira, 10, was appointed as Kid Mayor 2023 by Toledo Mayor Wade Kapszukiewciz on Tuesday. Gabby is the second Kid Mayor, succeeding Glenwood Elementary School student Evelyn Bush, and will serve alongside the Kid Council. (WTOL)

Now you're in the loop and ready to head out the door on this Thursday. I'll catch up with you bright and early tomorrow morning with a new update!

— Brad King

About me: I have been a lifelong Northwest Ohio native and University of Toledo grad (Go Rockets!). I'm old enough to remember when the Mud Hens were still playing in Maumee. The Glass City has seen some amazing revitalization and I am so excited to share every update with you!

Have a news tip or suggestion for an upcoming Toledo Patch newsletter? Contact me at toledo@patch.com