The Lucas County Workforce Development Agency and the County Commissioners have awarded Owens Community College a $1.9 million federal stimulus grant to expand training programs for unemployed workers.
Owens would use the funds to provide short-cycle training and job placement opportunities for unemployed and dislocated workers within high growth, high demand occupations that include “green collar,” health care and construction-based industries.
The $1.9 million in federal funding is the largest grant or gift ever received in the college’s 44-year history, according to the college.
The Lucas County Workforce Development Agency designated funding for the grant through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, the Workforce Investment Act Title I funds and the 2009 National Emergency Grant.

Current 2nd district City Councilman D. Michael Collins threw his hat into the Toledo mayoral race during a June 30 press conference at One Government Center. A Toledo native, Collins will run as an independent and will create a team for his candidacy.

“I have had the privilege to serve on the Toledo City Council for the past 18 months,” Collins said during his speech. “This has provided me with a front row seat as to why Toledo is in its current state of affairs. I will assemble a leadership team that embraces the vision that Toledo and our neighbors will come together, and with true communication, respect and trust as the foundation, we will achieve our potential.”

Collins said his announcement came the day of his 65th birthday. Most of those 65 years, he said, he has lived in Toledo. Besides his council tenor, he said, he also served in the Marine Corps from 1965 until his discharge in 1969. In addition, he is also the former president of the Toledo Police Patrolmans’ Association.

“Not everybody tells you the truth,” Collins said of the lessons he learned during his Patrolmans’ presidency. “A career in law enforcement gives you the ability to filter information in terms of the credibility that is being represented.”

Council candidate Steve Sulewski said Collins’ mix of experience and honesty had won his vote. He said he admired Collins’ continued dedication towards remaining free of any political party affiliation.

“He is a fighter and an independent,” Sulewski said of Collins. “We need more of that in this city. I will do anything I can to back him.”

During his speech, Collins focused on three problems within Toledo he said he would help fix. These were its economy, relationships with other Northwest Ohio communities and its municipal safety, he said.

Collins said the city’s economic woes stemmed from budgets approved by the administration of current Mayor Carty Finkbeiner. When he addressed worries over the budgets, he said, the Finkbeiner administration ignored his ideas.

“I have not voted for the past two budgets presented by the administration because both budgets were, in my opinion, not realistic and the process to achieve them was not transparent,” Collins said. “These budgets passed, however, and we now live with the product of a failure of sound fiscal policy. The administration either failed to listen or dismissed my concerns outright.”

Collins said he would remedy these economic woes by reaching out to neighboring communities and encouraging regional economic growth. He said he will work at formulating a “responsible” plan of economic success for the area.

“Northwest Ohio will prosper and grow if we can capitalize on our natural resources, outstanding institutions of higher education, the synergy and dynamics of the new University of Toledo, our unique geographic location and our talented and committed workforce,” he said. “Most importantly, we will be a region with a mission.”

Collins said public safety was a key factor in accomplishing his economic goals. Calling Toledo’s fire, rescue and police services “understaffed,” he said he aims to clean up the community’s crime.

“In the last 18 months we have had a shrinking state of municipal security,” he said. “Today we have fewer police officers per thousand than any other city in our population range in the United States. Absent the ability for Toledo residents and visitors to feel safe in their homes and on our streets, we will never achieve our potential.”

Sulewski said Collins’ Toledo upbringing would be an asset in reaching such goals. What Collins offers Toledo citizens, he said, is “practicality.”

“He has lived here his whole life, worked with the police and knows the heartbeat of the city,” Sulewski said of Collins. “He brings a common sense attitude rather than a party line attitude.”

Collins said he will not seek endorsement from the Republican or Democratic parties. He said he believes voters will pick the mayor based on their consciences first and foremost.

“You win elections with credibility, sound policy and honesty,” Collins said after his press conference. “I am going to work hard. I look forward to being an agent of change.”

The big gossip at Hickory Ridge Elementary School was always, “Who was going out with whom?”
My mom would then ask me, “Where are they going? They are 12 years old.”
My first “dating” experience came in sixth grade. Her name was Beth. Now, whereas most of the other boys had started “dating” in fourth or fifth grades, my charming personality outweighed my good looks back then. So finding the right girl was a challenge.
Nevertheless, like most elementary love stories, Beth and I “dated” on and off three times in less than a month.
She loved me. She loved me not. She loved me. She loved me not.
Then one spring afternoon, I picked up the phone and on the other end was Beth. She was having second thoughts and wanted to get back together for a fourth time.
I still remember vividly saying “No, you broke my heart three other times and I’m not going to let you do it again.”
I slammed the phone.
Some 16 years later, I’m thinking about breaking up with one of my other first loves: the Cleveland sports scene.
Now, I may be too chicken to actually slam the phone, but I’m on the verge.
During the past 16 years, Cleveland franchises have given me reason to question my loyalty.
It started back in 1995, as a freshman in high school, when the Cleveland Indians made their first trip back to the World Series in decades.
A team loaded with offense, was shut down by Tom Glavine in Game 6 and future Indian David Justice provided the game’s only run. The “Tomahawk Chop” still haunts me to this day.
Then, there was 1997. The Indians had returned to the World Series after a one year hiatus.
Once again, the Tribe was oozing with offensive talent and their pitching staff was as solid as it had been in quite some time.
However, it would be the team’s hurlers that would once again let down the city by the lake.
Clinging to a 2-0 lead in the seventh inning, Jaret Wright let Bobby Bonilla go deep to the seats in right. Later closer Jose Mesa allowed the tying run to score in the bottom of the ninth.
Two innings later, the worst moment of my sports life happened.
In the bottom of the 11th inning, Edgar Renteria lined a single over the head and off the glove of Charles Nagy and into centerfield. Craig Counsell scored with his arms raised to the sky. Heartbreak and tears for this young Cleveland fan.
Then, there was the 2007 American League Championship Series where the Indians ace pitching staff, well, forgot how to pitch in clutch games.
Cleveland blew a 3-game-to-1 lead over the Red Sox, allowing Boston to advance to the World Series against Colorado. A series which many think the Indians could have easily won.
As for the Browns version 2.0, well I will leave that for another time. I guess the year 1964 can sum up my feelings toward that franchise right now.
That brings me to the 2009 Cleveland Cavaliers. It’s never too late to vent frustration.
The Cavs effort in this year’s Eastern Conference Finals was nothing short of amazing. It was their team’s ability that was brought into question.
Cleveland has arguably the best basketball player on the planet in LeBron James, and Mo’ Williams is a nice sidekick. However, the Magic have many, many pieces to the puzzle. Pieces that don’t miss from behind the arc or so it would seem.
The Cavs are close, just like the Browns in the late 80s, and the Indians in the late 90s. What the Eastern Conference Finals did was exploit the Cavs’ weaknesses.
This was supposed to be the year where Cleveland held a trophy high for the first time in a long time, but instead fans are left feeling empty inside. Numb to the feeling of underachieving has become commonplace.
I know all about weakness, I went back to Beth three times before I learned my lesson. With the Cleveland sports scene I’ve come back time after time only to have my heart ripped out come crunch time.
My relationship with Cleveland is rocky at best right now. Here is where I need my mom to ask me and the Indians, Cavs and Browns “Where are you going?” Because the way I see it, Cleveland, it’s not me, it is you.

Ryan Fowler is the weekend sports anchor at NBC24 and can be reached at bgsualum03@hotmail.com.

The Toledo Science Center plans on changing its name to The Imagination Station at a 10:30 a.m. June 29 press conference hosted outside the 1 Discovery Way building. It will tentatively reopen in October 2009.

“We wanted a name that would be both exciting and energetic,” said Lori Hauser, the building’s executive director. “Our new motto is pure science, pure fun. Pure science and pure fun is everything we are about.”

Hauser said the group launched a naming contest in February 2009. Over 2,000 submissions came from students, schools and Toledo residents, she said. She said a panel of 20 selected the new name.

A new logo accompanies the name change, Hauser added. She said the colorful logo reflects the building’s fresh start.

“The logo lets the imagination wonder,” she said.

Hauser said the building was currently undergoing paint and carpet renovations. The center has no exact date picked in October for reopening, she said. When it does, she said, it will embody the “pure science, pure fun” motto to the fullest.

“Each time someone visits it’s different,” she said. “It is very invigorating.”

Events are subject to change.

INDEPENDENCE CELEBRATIONS
Freedom Celebration: Holland will set off some fireworks during its eighth annual Fourth of July party. Entertainment will include dance groups, bands, children’s activities, concessions and a performance by the Ohio 122nd National Guard Band (8-9:30 p.m.). 4-7 p.m. June 27 (June 28 if rain), Community Homecoming Park, 7617 Angola Rd., Holland. (419) 865-0239.

TMA Family Center program: Celebrate America. Hands-on art activities for children. Noon-5:30 p.m. June 28 and 10 a.m.-3 p.m. June 30 and July 2, 2445 Monroe St. (419) 255-8000 or www.toledomuseum.org.

Patriotic Poetry: Young writers can create independence-minded verse and decorate their masterpieces. 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. July 1, Birmingham Branch Library, 203 Paine Ave. (419) 259-5210.

Salute to America: Greenfield Village will “strike up the band” for its 17th annual patriotic performance, including a concert by the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, fireworks and more. Picnics are welcome. 6-10 p.m. July 1-4, 20900 Oakwood Blvd., Dearborn, Mich. $14-$22.50 (advance) or $17.50-$27; $5 parking. (313) 982-6001 or (800) 835-5237.

Celebration: A community picnic featuring brats, hot dogs and ice cream, plus live music and children’s events, will be capped off with fireworks. 5 p.m. July 3, 100 block of East Wayne Street, Maumee. (419) 893-5805.

Star-Spangled Celebration: Music, dancing and kids’ activities lead up to the show @@ fireworks at dark. 7 p.m.-midnight July 3, Centennial Terrace, 5773 Centennial Road, Sylvania. $5; $5 parking. (419) 882-1500.

Red, White & Kaboom fireworks/Taste of Toledo: Local cuisine will be showcased during the day, but the night will explode with pyrotechnical bursts. Also featuring Battle of the Bands performances. Noon-midnight July 3-4, Promenade and Festival parks, Water St.

Fireworks Cruises: See the pyrotechnics above and reflected below. Snacks will be provided. 6 p.m. July 4, Sandpiper, departing from the Jefferson Street dock in Promenade Park. $40. Reservations: (419) 537-1212.

Party Like It’s 1876: Celebrate America’s birthday by going back in time to when water was the nation’s life blood. Visit the water-powered mill or take a canal boat ride ($4-$6). Crafters will demonstrate their skills, and games from the past are planned. Noon-4 July 4, Kimble’s Landing, Providence Metropark, 13827 US 24 West (at SR 578), Grand Rapids.

Lil’ Timbers Kids Klub: Celebrate independence with crafts and personalized storage totes to keep. 1-2 p.m. July 4, Learning Express, Shops at Fallen Timbers, 3100 Main St., Maumee. (419) 878-6255 or (419) 878-2446.

Old-Fashioned 4th of July: The day will be filled with “hand-cranked ice cream, old-fashioned games, a reading of the Declaration of Independence and patriotic songs being played on the reed organ.” A naturalization ceremony will take place, too. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. July 4, Sauder Village, 22611 Route 2, Archbold. $6.50-$12.50. (800) 590-9755.

Lake Erie Beach Treasure Hunt: Grab a map, solve the clues and perhaps treasure will be your reward. For kids ages 4-10. 5 p.m. July 4, Maumee Bay State Park Nature Center, 1400 State Park Road, Oregon. $3. (419) 836-9117.

Vintage Baseball: The Sylvania Great Black Swamp Frogs and the Woodstock Actives will play an 1860s-style baseball game. 1-3:30 p.m. July 4, Wildwood Preserve Metropark’s playground area, 5100 W. Central Ave. (419) 535-3056.

Independence Day concert: The nation’s first presidential center will host Civil War re-enactors and the Toledo Symphony Concert Band’s concert of red-white-and-blue tunes and cannon-fire accompaniment to “The 1812 Overture.” 2-3:30 p.m. July 4, Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center, Buckland Avenue, Fremont. (419) 332-2081, ext. 38, or (800) 998-7737.

Independence Day 1813: The 4th nearly 200 years ago at Fort Meigs was celebrated with cannons, drinking, music and a day of leisure. Re-enactors will relive the day with demonstrations, an 18-gun salute, fife-and-drum concert and encampments. Noon-5 July 4 and 9:30 p.m.-5 p.m. July 5, 29100 W. River Road, Perrysburg. $5-$9. (419) 874-4121 or (800) 283-8916.

MOSTLY FOR ADULTS
Parents should determine appropriateness for children

Super Savings Sundays: Race fans can collect dollar deals (admission, hot dogs, beer and programs) while taking in some harness action. Track opens at 11:30 a.m.; post time is 5 p.m. June 28, 5700 Telegraph Rd. $1. (419) 476-7751 or www.racewayparktoledo.com.

Creole in the Attic: New Orleans-style food, an in-house “good witch” to read fortunes, music and live crawfish will bring the feel of the Big Easy to Toledo. 4 p.m.-2 a.m. Wednesdays through Aug. 26, The Attic on Adams, 1701 Adams St. (above Manos). (419) 243-6063.

Farmers Market: Vendors of produce, flowers, jams and more will line the shopping center’s main drag. 3-7 p.m. Tuesdays through Sept. 29, Shops at Fallen Timbers, 3100 Main St., Maumee. (419) 878-6255 or www.toledofarmersmarket.org.

Perrysburg Farmers Market: Locally grown plants, baked goods, garden art and gifts will be available. 3-8 p.m. Thursdays through Oct. 15, Louisiana Avenue at Second Street, downtown Perrysburg. (419) 874-9147 or www.visitperrysburg.com.

Wine Tasting Saturdays: Grape groupies can try five wines, selected by Uptown Vineyard, and appetizers. 6-7 p.m., Manhattan’s, 1516 Adams St. $10. Reservations: ty@uptownvineyard.com. (419) 243-6675 or www.manhattanstoledo.com.

Wine Tastings: In the mood for something a little grape? See what’s new and tasty on The Andersons’ shelves. 6-8 p.m. Thursdays, 4701 Talmadge Road, (419) 473-3232; 5-7 p.m. Thursdays, 530 Illinois Ave., Maumee, (419) 891-2700; and 1-3 p.m. Saturdays, 3725 Williston Road, Northwood, (419) 698-8400. Nominal fees apply.

Sandpiper cruises: Take a float up or down the Maumee. Departing from the Jefferson Street dock in Promenade Park. Reservations: (419) 537-1212.
> Discover the River/picnic lunch cruises: Two-hour cruises go either down the Maumee to see the Veteran’s Glass City Skyway Bridge, port, shipyard and dry docks or up river to see riverside homes, yacht clubs, marinas and wildlife. 10 a.m. Saturdays through September; $7-$15. Picnic cruises include casual lunches catered by Superior Catering: noon Thursdays through September; $14-$22.
> Sunset & City Lights Cruises: “Listen to love songs while enjoying a two-hour, up-river cruise with sunset around Walbridge Park and city lights shimmering on the water.” Snacks included. 8 p.m. Sundays through September; $20.
> Friday night rides: “Two-hour up-river cruise to see beautiful homes, wildlife and marinas.” 6 p.m. Fridays through Aug. 28; $7-$15.
> Lighthouse Cruise: A five-hour trip past the Veteran’s Glass City Skyway Bridge and the port, out into Lake Erie to see Toledo’s Harbor Lighthouse and the remains of another. Picnics welcome. 12:30 p.m. June 28, $15-$35.

Women’s Real Life Self-Defense Course: Ladies can learn to fend off attackers. 8 a.m.-noon June 27, American Mobile Fitness, 5133 S. Main St., Sylvania. $60. (419) 410-5418, (419) 517-4374 or heinrich.thomas@americanmoblefitness.com.

Friends of the Library book sale: Excess books, magazines and videotapes will be sold with prices ranging from a quarter to $1. Proceeds benefit library programs. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. June 27, Friends of the Library Book Center, Reynolds Corners Shopping Center, Reynolds Road and Dorr Street. (419) 259-5207.

Ballroom Basics: The Ballroom Company from Maumee will offer a beginning lesson. 1-2 p.m. June 27, West Toledo Branch Library, 1320 Sylvania Ave. Registration: (419) 259-5290.

Party @ the Park: Live music will be featured each Saturday all summer. Track opens at 11:30 a.m.; post time is 6 p.m. Raceway Park, 5700 Telegraph Rd. $1-$2. (419) 476-7751 or www.racewayparktoledo.com.
> June 27: Hoozier Daddy.
> July 4: Hot Lucy.
> July 11: Beer Thirty.

Fifth Annual Andersons Beer Challenge: What’s the best tasting beer? Visitors can blind taste Labatt, Budweiser, Coors and Miller Genuine Draft to discover personal favorites. 1-4 p.m. June 27-28, 4701 Talmadge Road. (419) 473-3232.

USS Brig Niagara: Critical to the British Navy’s first-ever defeat during the Battle of Lake Erie, this ship will dock in Put-in-Bay for day sails (June 27-28, $100) and, if you can afford it, the $1,250 Seamanship Sail Training Program, in which apprentices “live and work onboard ship for two to four weeks, sailing on Lake Erie to various ports of call.” Fox’s Dock, Put-in-Bay, South Bass Island. (419) 285-2832 or www.visitputinbay.com.

Chess for Adults: Don’t be a pawn! Learn the names of the pieces, strategy, tactics and etiquette. 7-8:30 p.m. June 29 and July 1, Sylvania Branch Library, 6749 Monroe St., Sylvania. Registration: (419) 882-2089.

Yoga in the Garden: Inspire your practice with the serenity of nature. 6-7:15 p.m. Mondays, June 29-Aug. 3, Toledo Botanical Garden, 5403 Elmer Dr. $85. (419) 536-5566.

Blood drives: The Western Lake Erie Region of the American Red Cross will hold several drives this month. For more information or opportunities to donate, call (800) 448-3543 or visit www.givebloodtoday.org.
> 10 a.m.-4 p.m. June 30, Student Health and Activities Center, Owens Community College, 30335 Oregon Road, Perrysburg.
> Noon-5 June 30, UT Rec Center, 2801 W. Bancroft St.
> Lilly Irvin Memorial Drive, 1:30-6:30 p.m. June 30, Dental Health Associate, 3924 Sylvan Lakes Dr., Sylvania.
> 12:30-5:30 p.m. July 7, Maumee Eagles, 827 Illinois Ave., Maumee.
> Noon-5 July 8, Marblehead Veterans of Foreign Wars hall, 421 W. Main St., Marblehead.
> 1-6 p.m. July 9, Maumee Valley Church, 8715 Garden Road, Maumee.
> 9 a.m.-3 pm. July 11, Toledo Masons, Northern Light Lodge, 119 W. Wayne St., Maumee.
> 9 a.m.-2 p.m. July 11, Bowling Green Eagles Club, 1163 N. Main St., Bowling Green.
> 11:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Port Clinton Moose, 1105 W. Lakeshore Dr., Port Clinton.
> Noon-6 July 14, Swanton American Legion, 200 S. Hallet Ave., Swanton.
> 12:30-5:30 p.m. July 14, Lambertville Veterans of Foreign Wars, 4120 Piehl Road, Lambertville, Mich.

Dillon House Victorian Teas: One of Fremont’s finest examples of Victorian-era architecture is the setting for a formal event that includes entertainment and presentations, such as acoustic guitarist Dave Lester. 1-3 p.m. July 1, Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center, Buckland Avenue, Fremont. $12-$20. Reservations required: (419) 332-2081, ext. 38, or (800) 998-7737.

Creative Zone: Beginning adults can get started in a productive pastime. Supplies will be furnished. 7-8 p.m. Thursdays, Oregon Branch Library, 3340 Dustin Road, Oregon. Registration: (419) 259-5250.
> Photo Album and Journal, July 2.
> Picture Frames, July 9.

Metroparks Seniors: Rare and Endangered Animals. “Learn about North American and Ohio endangered species and what is being done to protect them. Optional walk to follow.” For those 60 and older. 2-3:30 p.m. July 8, Ward Pavilion, Wildwood Preserve Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. $2. Reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

Discover Downtown Toledo Walking Tours: UT’s Urban Affairs Center and the Toledo-Lucas County Public Library sponsor these in-depth looks at architecture and history in the Glass City, lead by trained volunteer guides. Noon-2 Thursdays, July 9-Sept. 17, rain or shine. (419) 530-3591 or uac@utoledo.edu.
> In the Beginning: July 9, from Jefferson Avenue and North Summit Street by the historic marker.

Friday Night Frenzy: Racing will be accompanied by music, drink specials and Mud Hens ticket giveaways. Raceway Park, 5700 Telegraph Rd. $1-$2. (419) 476-7751 or www.racewayparktoledo.com.
> July 10: Beer Thirty

Helping Hands: Aid naturalists and land management staff in restoring natural areas to preserve rare and endangered plants. 9-11 a.m. July 11, Buehner Center porch, Oak Openings Preserve Metropark, 4139 Girdham Road off Route 2, Swanton. Reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

Preserving Our Memories: Guests will learn how memories are preserved at the village and how to preserve family memories at home. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. July 11, Sauder Village, 22611 Route 2, Archbold. $6.50-$12.50. (800) 590-9755.

Bird Hikes for Adults: “Bird lovers will enjoy these monthly outings to explore” the winged world. Binoculars and bird guides welcome. 8:30-10:30 a.m. July 11, Buehner Center porch, Oak Openings Preserve Metropark, 4139 Girdham Road off Route 2, Swanton.

Garden Helping Hands: Gardeners and wannabe gardeners can the Friends group help maintain the parks’ plots. 9-10 a.m. July 11, Side Cut Metropark’s Lamb Center, 1025 River Road, Maumee. Reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

Yoga on the Roof: Hour-long programs with Glass City “skyline views” for everyone from namaste newbies to practiced yogis. 7 p.m. July 14, Civic Plaza rooftop, Toledo Lucas County Main Library, 325 Michigan St. Registration: (419) 259-5209.

Tai chi: Jan Gilson will give participants a hands-on introduction to this stress reducing exercise that keeps joints working and improves flexibility. 7-8:30 p.m. July 14, 21 and 28, Sanger Branch Library, 3030 W. Central Ave. Registration: (419) 259-5295.

ART & EXHIBITIONS
Toledo Museum of Art exhibitions: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesdays-Thursdays and Saturdays, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Fridays and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sundays, 2445 Monroe St. (419) 255-8000.
> “Archaeology in the Golden Age: Toledo Explores Iraq, 1929-1932.” “A political and trading hub for more than five centuries,” Seleucia-on-the-Tigris was capital of one of Alexander the Great’s successors. The TMA was part of an excavation in the 1930s; this exhibit displays what was uncovered. Through June 28, Little Theater Gallery.
> “Juneteenth: Photography in Focus.” Local African-American photographers’ work will be displayed in “an intimate exhibition showcasing their diverse styles.” Through July 19, Community Gallery.
> Sylvania Senior Center Artist Group: These seniors “explore varied styles and subjects,” but share the enjoyment of creation. That enthusiasm is on display in this exhibition. Through July 19, Community Gallery.
> “The Spirit of Creativity”: High school students serve as curators and organizers of this exhibition of their peers’ work. Through July 19, Community Gallery.
> “Radiant Ensemble”: “The Glass Pavilion sparkles” with historical jewelry made between 1785 to 1885 from the collection of Nancy and Gilbert Levine. Through Aug. 9.
> “Prints of Pop II: The Art of Sir Eduardo Paolozzi.” A collector of “ordinary things, Paolozzi used old magazines, comic strips, consumer products and advertisements” to create graphic works, “expanding on themes introduced by the Dada artists.” Through Sept. 6, Works on Paper Galleries.
> “Monkey Business”: “On this 150th anniversary year of Charles Darwin’s ‘On the Origin of Species,’ this exhibit explores simian symbolism through the ages.” July 2-Aug. 30, Gallery 18.

Detroit Institute of Art exhibitions: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesdays, Thursdays; 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Fridays; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, 5200 Woodward Ave., Detroit. Regular admission: $4-$8; special exhibition prices include general admission. (313) 833-7900.
> “Of Life and Loss: The Polish Photographs of Roman Vishniac and Jeffrey Gusky.” Both men photographed Jews, Vishniac to raise money for humanitarian aid, Gusky to define the culture and identity. But the lapse between the efforts provides the drama of this exhibition. Through July 12.
> “Action < > Reaction”: Video Installations. When viewed in the context of one to another, these works pose questions about the temporal and mysterious nature of human existence. July 3-Jan. 3.

“Three Women in the Woods: Preservation and Conservation of Ohio’s Woodlands.” Jane Rogers, Jill Sell and Barbara Krans Jenkins are working together “to help preserve beautiful and endangered” landscapes. This exhibition of photography, fine art and poetry tries to “educate and encourage others to express their own appreciation for nature and raise the level of caring for the natural world.” Noon-5 p.m. weekends and during special events, through June 28, National Center for Nature Photography, Secor Metropark, 10000 W. Central Ave., Berkey. (419) 829-2761.

Outdoor Writers Photo Show: Winning entries in the Outdoor Writers Association of America annual photography contest will be on display. Noon-5 p.m. weekends and during special events, through June 28, National Center for Nature Photography, Secor Metropark, 10000 W. Central Ave., Berkey. (419) 829-2761.

Karl Mullen: This Irish painter’s works “tell a colorful story,” rich with “poetry, dreams, mythology, whisky,” love and invention. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays and 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturdays, through June 30, Hudson Gallery, 5645 N. Main St., Sylvania. (419) 885-8381.

Doodlebug Art Camp: The Perrysburg Area Arts Council will help kids entering first to fourth grades discover the arts and their own creativity. 2-3 or 3:30-4:40 p.m. Wednesdays through July 1, Youth Activity Center, Way Public Library, 101 E. Indiana Ave., Perrysburg. $3 a session. Registration: (419) 874-3135 or www.waylibrary.info.

“Re.Fresh”: Large-scale prints by Myra Klarman offer a peek at moments from last summer’s Ann Arbor Summer Festival. Through July 4, lobby, Power Center for the Performing Arts, 121 Fletcher St., Ann Arbor, Mich.

“America’s National Parks: A Monumental Vision.” Clyde Butcher’s black-and-white photographs draw the viewer “into a relationship with nature, inspiring others to work to save nature’s places of spiritual sanctuary for future generations.” Noon-5 p.m. weekends and during special events, through July 5, National Center for Nature Photography, Secor Metropark, 10000 W. Central Ave., Berkey. (419) 829-2761.

“Once Amish”: Artist Greg Kempf will present a retrospective of his paintings, woodcuts and lithographs. 7-10 p.m. daily through July 5, Collingwood Arts Center, 2413 Collingwood Blvd. (419) 244-2787.

“Terrific Teens”: Area teens have compiled oral histories and archival materials to produce this community-based exhibition that explores the lives of teenagers in northwest Ohio over the past 50 years. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays and 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturdays, through July 18, Walter E. Terhune Gallery, Owens Community College, 30335 Oregon Road, Perrysburg. (567) 661-2721 or www.owens.edu.

“The Long View”: A retrospective of work by Blade photographer Herral Long. 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays, 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays through July 29, second floor gallery, Toledo Lucas County Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St. (419) 259-5207.

“Flowers From Rome”: Gary Bukovnik’s watercolor floral imagery is clear and refreshing. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Fridays and 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturdays through July 30, Paula Brown Gallery, 912 Monroe St. (419) 241-2822.

“First-Lady Style: White House Gowns.” This display “examines the role of the First Lady using fashion as a focus,” exhibiting “33 original or reproduction gowns designed for American first ladies.” 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays and noon-5 Sundays, through Aug. 2, Hayes Museum, Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center, Spiegel Grove, Hayes and Buckland avenues, Fremont. (419) 332-2081, (800) 998-7737, www.rbhayes.org.

“Rock Stars’ Cars & Guitars 2″: Eye-popping cars, iconic guitars and a dizzying array of rock memorabilia, such as Billy F. Gibbons’ 1932 Ford coupe, “Eliminator”; Gene Simmons legendary axe bass; and one of Pete Townshend’s Rickenbackers, smashed to smithereens, will be on display. 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. daily through Sept. 7, Henry Ford Museum, 20900 Oakwood Blvd., Dearborn, Mich. $10-$14; $5 parking. (313) 982-6001 or (800) 835-5237.

Art Hours: Would-be glass artists now can reserve spots in the TMA’s hour-long studio sessions. 2445 Monroe St. $25. Reservations start the Tuesday before the event: (419) 254-5771, ext. 7448.
> Hot glass flowers: 6, 7 and 8 p.m. Fridays through Aug. 28, and 2 and 4 p.m. June 27.

TMA Tours: Get the inside scoop on what’s new, interesting and artful during docent-led tours. Most start from Libbey Court, 2445 Monroe St. (419) 255-8000.
> Highlights of the Collection, 2 and 3 p.m. June 27; 1, 2, 3 and 4 p.m. June 28.
> “Monkey Business”: Inside and Out. 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. July 3.
> Animals in Art, 1, 2, 3 and 4 p.m. July 5.
> Glass Pavilion Experience, 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. July 10.
> Monet’s Garden, 2 and 3 p.m. July 11; and 1, 2, 3 and 4 p.m. July 12.

Focus on Fiber Arts: “Learn how a sheep’s wool is transformed into a sweater as artisans demonstrate and share their love of fiber arts.” 10 a.m.-5 p.m. June 27, Sauder Village, 22611 Route 2, Archbold. $6.50-$12.50. (800) 590-9755.

44th Crosby Festival of the Arts: More than 230 artists from across the nation will display work in a variety of media. Music and kids’ activities round out the artful experience. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. June 27 and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. June 28, Toledo Botanical Garden, 5403 Elmer Dr. $7. (419) 536-5566.

Art on the Line: Anyone “can contribute to paintings on fabric panels made from recycled plastic bottles” to create outdoor galleries this summer. “Completed works will be hung on clotheslines scattered throughout the campus” as the “museum attempts to install more than 200 new works of art.” Contribute from 7-9 p.m. Fridays, July 3-Aug. 21, in the Sculpture Garden, 2445 Monroe St. (419) 255-8000.

Outdoors on the Terrace: Visitors can take part in hands-on activities inspired by works in the Sculpture Garden. 7-9 p.m., main TMA terrace, 2445 Monroe St. (419) 255-8000.
> July 3: Deborah Butterfield’s “Second Daughter.” “Use sticks and natural objects to create” horses.
> July 10: Barry Flanagan’s “Large Leaping Hare.” “Create a jumping rabbit for your garden.”

Open Art Day: Visitors can let their inner artists out at these demonstrations, hands-on activities and live performances. Noon-4 July 5, Toledo Botanical Garden, 5403 Elmer Dr. (419) 536-5566.

Local glass artists: Workers in silicon-based media will be spotlighted. 7-10 p.m., TMA, 2445 Monroe St. (419) 255-8000.
> July 10: Mary Ellen Graham, John Sutton and Randy Kuntz, Toledo Glass Guild artists.

David Fitzsimmons: “Wild Wetlands.” The photographer will discuss his work and exhibition. Followed by a meet-and-greet. 1-3 p.m. July 11, National Center for Nature Photography, Secor Metropark, 10000 W. Central Ave., Berkey. (419) 829-2761.

Hands-on TMA activities: Get a closer feeling for the “Monkey Business” exhibit with these related events. 2445 Monroe St. Free. (419) 255-8000.
> Monkey See, Monkey Do: Participants will make monkey vessels like the one in the show. 2-4 p.m. July 12, Libbey Court.

FAIRS & FESTIVALS
Viva South Mexican American Fiesta: Music will be provided by Grupo DeZeo, El Futuro, Lil T and Eddy G, and DJ Joe Cardenas; Ballet Folklorico Imagenes Mexicanas will perform; and there will be food and a children’s play area. 6 p.m.-midnight June 26 and 1 p.m.-midnight June 27, Broadway Street between Walbridge and Western avenues. $3 Saturday. (419) 241-1071.

Riverside Wine Festival: Try Ohio wines and fine foods and see entertainment, arts and crafts, displays and demonstrations. Noon-8 June 27, Riverside Park, McManness Avenue, Findlay. $20 for admission and 50 samples; designated drivers and non-imbibers, $5. (419) 422-4624 or www.artspartnership.com.

Book fair: Assistance Dogs of America, which helps individuals with disabilities by training and placing therapy dogs, will operate the “Once-Read Book Center” through June. Proceeds will be shared between that group and Read for Literacy. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily; book fair, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. June 27-28, 577 Foundation, 577 E. Front St., Perrysburg. (419) 874-4174 or www.577foundation.org.

Portage River Festival: Antique cars, trucks and tractors, plus model railroad displays and the Elmore Train Depot, music, food, crafts and a flea market. All day June 28, Rice St., Elmore. (419) 832-2968 or (419) 862-3552.

Adopt-a-Thon Carnival: About 15 rescue organizations will have dogs, cats, puppies, kittens, rabbits and ferrets (maybe even a bird or two) available for adoption. Games and food will be on hand, too. Noon-5 June 28, Sylvania Veterinary Hospital, 4801 Holland-Sylvania Road, Sylvania. (419) 885-4421.

Lagrange Street Polish Festival: Toledo’s Polish Village will celebrate its heritage with polka music and dance contest, food, rides and games, and arts and craft vendors. 5-11 p.m. July 10, noon-11 July 11 and noon-7 July 12, Polish Village, Lagrange Street, between Central Avenue and Mettler Street. $1-$3. (419) 255-8406.

Fifth annual African-American Festival: Gospel music and other live entertainment, including performances by the Manhattans, the Rance Allen Group, Nick Colionne, First Creation, Joyce Cooling and Ramona Collins, plus rides and a health fair, are planned. Prayer breakfast Friday morning; parade at 10 a.m. Saturday. 8 a.m. July 10, noon-10 July 11 and noon-7 July 12, UT’s Scott Park campus, Nebraska Avenue at Parkside Boulevard. $1-$6. (419) 255-8876.

Rapid Rally Days: A farmer’s market, play, parade, tractor and trolley rides, car show, children’s activities are scheduled. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. July 11 and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. July 12, downtown Grand Rapids. www.grandrapidsohio.com.

Lake Erie Lighthouse Festival: Celebrate the Toledo Harbor structure with island music, nautical arts and crafts, a photo contest and sand castle contest, entertainment, vendors, food, boat rides to the lighthouse, children’s activities, fireworks and more. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. July 11 and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. July 12, Maumee Bay State Park, 1400 State Park Road, Oregon. (419) 836-7758 or www.toledoharborlighthouse.org/

FAMILY TIME
Weekend Pet Adoptions: Find a dog or cat to join your home at these events.
> Planned Pethood: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. July 4, The Andersons, 530 Illinois Ave., Maumee, (419) 891-2700.
> Animal House Rescue: noon-3 July 5, The Andersons, 530 Illinois Ave., Maumee, (419) 891-2700.
> 4 Paws Sake: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. July 11, The Andersons, 530 Illinois Ave., Maumee, (419) 891-2700.
> Paws & Whiskers Cat Shelter: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. July 11, The Andersons, 4701 Talmadge Road. (419) 473-3232.
> Maumee Valley Save-a-Pet: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. July 12, The Andersons, 530 Illinois Ave., Maumee, (419) 891-2700.

The Canal Experience: Visitors can see what an authentic 1876 canal boat was like during an hour-long cruise, then see how waterpower is used to saw logs and grind grain. Noon-4 p.m. June 27 and 10 a.m.-2 p.m. June 30; and 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesdays-Fridays and noon-4 p.m. weekends July-August, Kimble’s Landing, Providence Metropark, 13827 U.S. Route 24 West (at Route 578), Grand Rapids. Boat tickets: $4-$6.

Oak Grove School: A restored, one-room schoolhouse helps visitors learn what it was like to attend school in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Open seasonally, by reservation only; east entrance, Wildwood Preserve Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. (419) 535-3056. Frogtown Froggy Museum: More than 300 amphibians are on display, as well as a “ribbit-ticklin’” activity room. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays and 1-5 p.m. Sundays, 136 N. Summit St., Suite 1A. Donations. (419) 944-8806 or www.frogtownfroggymuseum.webs.com.

Camp Sunshine fundraiser: Tropical Smoothie Cafe is selling flip-flop signs to raise money to “send children with life-threatening illness and their families to camp for a week of rest, relaxation, medical counseling and emotional support.” Money raised locally will help families in Ohio go to the lakeside camp in Maine. Through June 30, 1385 Conant St., Maumee. $1. (419) 893-2100 or www.tropicalsmoothiecafe.com.

Way-Out Wednesdays: A different craft or game is planned each week. 2 p.m. through July 15, Toledo Heights Branch Library, 423 Shasta Dr. (419) 259-5220.

Young Artists Club, Summer Edition: Kids 11 and younger are invited to show off their artistic talents. 3 p.m. every other Tuesday through July 28, West Toledo Branch Library, 1320 Sylvania Ave. Registration: (419) 259-5290.

Knitwits: Learn to knit by making a washcloth; supplies provided. This Tuesday knitting club is for anyone in fourth grade and up. 2-3 p.m. through July 28. Heatherdowns Branch Library, 3265 Glanzman Road. Novices must register; advanced knitters can stitch along without registering. (419) 259-5307.

Reading Circle: Children who will enter second grade can practice their literacy skills. 2 p.m. daily through July 28, Point Place Branch Library, 2727 117th St. Registration: (419) 259-5390.

Grandparents Mondays: Grammy and Gramps will be admitted half-price when their grandkids tag along. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays, through Aug. 25, Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center, Spiegel Grove, Hayes and Buckland avenues, Fremont. $4-$10.50. (419) 332-2081, (800) 998-7737 or www.rbhayes.org.

Saturday chess: Players 12 and younger of any skill level can practice basic moves and learn some advanced strategy. 9-11 a.m. through Aug. 29, children’s library, Toledo Lucas County Main Library, 325 Michigan St. (419) 259-5207.

Raising Readers: Special activities and games for kids ages 2-8 will be available. 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. through Aug. 29, South Branch Library, 1736 Broadway. (419) 259-5395.

Fort Meigs: Historical interpreters, dressed in period attire, answer questions, offer weapon demonstrations and discuss the history of the fort and its role in the War of 1812. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesdays-Sundays through October, 29100 W. River Road, Perrysburg. $4-$8. (419) 874-4121 or (800) 283-8916.

Fossil Park @@ You’re Gonna Dig It: Visitors can hunt for and keep relics from the 375-millon-years-ago Devonian era. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sundays through Oct. 18, 5705 Centennial Road, Sylvania. (419) 882-8313.

Cre-activities: Heatherdowns Branch Library will offer teens the chance to express themselves with a variety of weeklong contests during regular hours, 1-5:30 p.m. Sundays, 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays and 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays. 3265 Glanzman Road. (419) 259-5270.
> I Think I Better Dance Now: Figure out the different dance steps in this week’s puzzle. Through June 28.
> More Than Just Painting by Numbers: Figure out who created the famous works of art. June 29-July 5.
> The Joke’s on You: Figure out the punch line for each set-up. July 6-12.
> Name That Tune: Find out if you’re a music aficionado by identifying different musical styles. July 13-19.

Expressions & Explorations: Teens have a chance to win in these weekly contests at Holland Branch Library. 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays and 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Fridays-Saturday, 1032 S. McCord Road, Holland. (419) 259-5240.
> Express your detecting side: Find tiny objects hidden in a bottle of rice. June 27.
> Express your literary side: See if you can decipher the titles of teen books. June 29-July 3.
> Express your musical side: Identify singers from song lyrics. July 6-11.
> Express your sweet side: Guess how many treats are in the jar. July 13-18.

Match games: Fifth-graders to high school seniors can participate in Birmingham Branch Library’s series of games, held during regular hours, and win prizes. Noon-9 Mondays-Tuesdays, 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Wednesdays-Saturdays, 203 Paine Ave. (419) 259-5210.
> Unmask the Superhero: Link the superhero to the actor who portrayed him or her. June 27.
> Salty Snacks: Identify the sodium-loaded snacks. June 29-July 3.
> I-Spy Masterpiece: Identify all the pieces of art in a bottle. July 6-11.
> Library vs. Wild: Name the exotic animals. July 13-18.

Great Ohio Bicycle Adventure: More than 2,500 bicyclists will ride through northwest Ohio, with stops in Norwalk, Elmore, Bowling Green, Defiance and Fostoria, covering more than 350 miles on their loop. Activities will take place at each base, including bike rodeos and races, games and demonstrations. Registration is closed for this year’s tour, but enthusiasts can cheer on the pedalers at each stop and check out www.goba.com to dream about and plan for the 2010 excursion. June 27, Huron County Fairgrounds, Norwalk.

Creative Avatars: Each icon posted earns teens a chance to win prizes. 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. June 27, South Branch Library, 1736 Broadway. (419) 259-5395.

Name that TV Tune: “See how many theme songs you can name and enter to win a drawing.” 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. June 27, Point Place Branch Library, 2727 117th St. (419) 259-5390.

St. Patrick of Heatherdowns Festival: A white elephant sale and chicken dinner are part of the festivities, which also include performances by Empire Drift (Saturday) and Aaron Wardle (Sunday). 2 p.m.-midnight June 27 and noon-6 June 28, St. Patrick of Heatherdowns, 4201 Heatherdowns Blvd. (419) 381-1540 or www.toledostpats.org.

Summer Reading Challenge: Participants can square off in this game-show style trivia contest about classic summer reading titles. 2 p.m. June 27, Borders, 5001 Monroe St. (419) 474-3704.

Pink Ribbon Horse Race: Entry fees in this race will be donated to Susan G. Komen for the Cure. 4 p.m. June 27, Wood County Fairgrounds, Brim and West Poe roads, Bowling Green. $2. (419) 559-3842 or (419) 724-2873.

Eco Hikers: Nature lovers ages 6-12 “will learn about the ecological and historical importance of the Metroparks through games, activities and hands-on exploration.” 1-2:30 p.m. June 27, Farnsworth Metropark, Roche de Bout parking lot, 8505 S. River Road (U.S. Route 24), Waterville. Reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

TMA Family Center programs: Hands-on art activities for children. Noon-5:30 p.m. Sundays and 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 2445 Monroe St. (419) 255-8000 or www.toledomuseum.org.
> Celebrate America, June 28 and 30 and July 2.
> Make an Animal, July 5, 7 and 9.
> Create a Superhero, July 12, 14 and 16.

Sunday Samplers: Visitors can bring picnic dinners and try a different experience each week. 5-6 p.m. (unless noted), meet at Wildwood Preserve Metropark’s Visitor Center, 5100 W. Central Ave. (419) 535-3056.
> Music in the Courtyard: Listen, sing along or bring acoustic instruments to fill Wildwood’s courtyard with song. June 28.
> Estate tours: Explore the horse stables, pool cabanas and limousine garage at the former Stranahan estate. Until 6:30 p.m. July 5.
> Prairie Flower Power: See the “colorful array of summer blooms.” July 12.

Teen Yoga: Learn “poses that are inspiring, invigorating and calming and be led through meditations that promote relaxation,” awareness and imagination. 4:30-5:30 p.m. June 29, Kent Branch Library, 3101 Collingwood Blvd. (419) 259-5283.

Razzle Dazzle Kaleidoscope: Teens will make kaleidoscopes. 2 p.m. June 29, Waterville Branch Library, 800 Michigan Ave., Waterville. Registration: (419) 878-3055.

Assistance Dogs of America: Learn what these canines do for people. 2-2:45 p.m. June 29, Oregon Branch Library, 3340 Dustin Road, Oregon.

Got Drama: Bowling Green State University graduate Julie Sneider will present an acting workshop, and participants can design and decorate comedy/tragedy masks. 2-3 p.m. June 29, Sylvania Branch Library, 6749 Monroe St., Sylvania. Registration: (419) 882-2089.

Lend an Ear: Storyteller Adisa Ababa tells tales that get the audience dancing.
> 10:30-11:30 a.m. June 29, Summit YMCA, 1500 N. Superior St. (419) 259-5315.
> 2-3 p.m. June 29, Toledo Heights Branch Library, 423 Shasta Dr. (419) 259-5220.

Creative Dance: Land of a thousand dances? If teens can recognize some, they may win. Noon-9 June 29-30 and 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. July 1-3, South Branch Library, 1736 Broadway. (419) 259-5395.

Make n’ Take Bookmarks: Readers 18 and younger can create bookmarks for their summer reading. 9 a.m.-9 p.m. June 29-30 and 9 a.m.-5:30 July 1-3, Locke Branch Library, 703 Miami St. (419) 259-5310.

Grab ‘n’ Go: Teens can stop in and “grab packets of games, puzzles and mazes for long holiday car rides.” 9 a.m.-9 p.m. June 29-July 2 and 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. July 3, Maumee Branch Library, 501 River Road, Maumee. (419) 259-5360.

How Many Jolly Ranchers? Guess the number of candies in the jar. 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. June 29-July 3, Oregon Branch Library, 3340 Dustin Road, Oregon. (419) 259-5250.

Mini Tote Bags: Teens will decorate their own small canvas bags. Supplies will be provided.
> 2-3 p.m. June 29, Mott Branch Library, 1085 Dorr St. (419) 259-5230.
> 2-3 p.m. July 2, Point Place Branch Library, 2727 117th St. Registration: (419) 259-5390.
> 3 p.m. July 9, Maumee Branch Library, 501 River Road, Maumee. (419) 259-5360.

Energy Savers: Amy Carles from the Office of Ohio Consumers’ Counsel will explain “how to save energy at home.” 7-8 p.m. June 30, Sanger Branch Library, 3030 W. Central Ave. Registration: (419) 259-5295.

Create an Ice Cream Treat: Kids 11 and younger will make their own tasty treats in honor of Dairy Month. 2 p.m. June 30, Maumee Branch Library, 501 River Road, Maumee. Registration: (419) 259-5360.

It’s Potty Party Time: “An informative, fun party for babies and their families” that will feature “songs, books, a ‘poop-it’ show” and more. 2:30 p.m. June 30, West Toledo Branch Library, 1320 Sylvania Ave. Registration: (419) 259-5290.

Puppets on Parade: Librarians and their felt friends will tell stories and lead songs to “celebrate the start of the summer reading club.” (419) 259-5315.
> 2-2:45 p.m. June 30, Sylvania Branch Library, 6749 Monroe St., Sylvania. (419) 882-2089.

Ragtime Rigadoon: “John Cleveland will have the whole family making music.” 7-7:45 p.m. June 30, Sylvania Branch Library, 6749 Monroe St., Sylvania. Registration: (419) 882-2089.

Printmaking for Kids: Using “unusual techniques,” young ones will create “colorful, exciting prints.” 10:30 a.m. June 30, West Toledo Branch Library, 1320 Sylvania Ave. (419) 259-5290.

Reach for the Stars! Youngsters will stretch their “bodies and minds.” 1-2 p.m. June 30, Mott Branch Library, 1085 Dorr St. (419) 259-5230.

Creative Paper Making: Melinda Lesniewicz from Keep Toledo-Lucas County Beautiful will demonstrate how to make writing material from recycled papers. 2 p.m. June 30, Toledo Heights Branch Library, 423 Shasta Dr. (419) 259-5220.

Moon Jar Savings Program: This program is a first step in teaching young children about money; they will learn to save using their very own banks.
> 3-4 p.m. June 30, Kent Branch Library, 3101 Collingwood Blvd. Registration: (419) 259-5283.
> 2 p.m. July 1, Holland Branch Library, 1032 S. McCord Road, Holland. Registration: (419) 259-5240.
> 3 p.m. July 2, Washington Branch Library, 5560 Harvest Lane. Registration: (419) 259-5330.
> 7-8 p.m. July 7, Sanger Branch Library, 3030 W. Central Ave. Registration: (419) 259-5295.
> 2 p.m. July 8, Point Place Branch Library, 2727 117th St. Registration: (419) 259-5390.
> 2 p.m. July 14, Toledo Heights Branch Library, 423 Shasta Dr. (419) 259-5220.

Toddler Trails: Children 18 months to 3 years old and their adults can go on outdoor nature adventures. 10-11 a.m. July 1, Metz Visitor Center, Wildwood Preserve Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. Reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

Create Your Own Keychain: Kids can draw their favorite cartoons or action figures on plastic and watch them transform. 3-4 p.m. July 1, Lagrange Branch Library, 3422 Lagrange St. Registration: (419) 259-5280.

Ohio Roots Match Game: Match the famous Ohioans with their hometowns. 9 a.m.-9 p.m. July 1, Washington Branch Library, 5560 Harvest Lane. (419) 259-5330.

A Cornucopia of Crafts: Wiggly eyes, craft sticks, pipe cleaners and foamies are just waiting for creative kids to design their masterpieces. 2-4 p.m. July 1, Waterville Branch Library, 800 Michigan Ave., Waterville. Registration: (419) 878-3055.

Nature’s Nursery: Learn how injured and orphaned wild animals get the help they need. 2 p.m. July 1, Point Place Branch Library, 2727 117th St. Registration: (419) 259-5390.

Chalk It Up: Artists can spruce up the library sidewalks with this ephemeral medium. 2-3 p.m. July 1, Sanger Branch Library, 3030 W. Central Ave. (419) 259-5370.

Kempo Martial Arts: Karate will provide teen participants a unique forum for self-expression through a disciplined venue.
> 2-2:45 p.m. July 1, Sylvania Branch Library, 6749 Monroe St., Sylvania. Registration: (419) 882-2089.
> 4-5 p.m. July 13, Kent Branch Library, 3101 Collingwood Blvd. (419) 259-5283.

Wacky Wednesdays: A random activity @@ games, books, crafts or movies @@ will be offered. 3-4:30 p.m. July 1 and 8, Kent Branch Library, 3101 Collingwood Blvd. (419) 259-5283.

Game Championship: The ultimate players of board and card games will be crowned in this event for youths 12 and older. 3-4 p.m. July 2, Lagrange Branch Library, 3422 Lagrange St. (419) 259-5280.

Bead Bookmarks: Cord, beads and charms will be used to make these markers. 3-4 p.m. July 2, West Toledo Branch Library, 1320 Sylvania Ave. (419) 259-5290.

Sea Creatures: Kids will be able to make their own briny friends to take home. 3 p.m. July 2, South Branch Library, 1736 Broadway. (419) 259-5395.

A Woodland Pond Study: Find out which different species make their homes in and around our lakes during an under-the-surface and in-the-muck pond exploration. 1-2 p.m. July 5, Buehner Center porch, Oak Openings Preserve Metropark, 4139 Girdham Road off Route 2, Swanton. (419) 826-6463.

Craft Potluck: “Leftover” crafts from previous programs will be featured. 2-3 p.m. July 6, Toledo Heights Branch Library, 423 Shasta Dr. (419) 259-5220.

Teens Cast Your Vote for Pizza: Teens can elect the king of area pizzerias. 2 p.m. July 6, Waterville Branch Library, 800 Michigan Ave., Waterville. Registration: (419) 878-3055.

Remember It Bracelet: Materials will be provided to created this souvenir. 7 p.m. July 6, Oregon Branch Library, 3340 Dustin Road, Oregon. (419) 259-5250.

Wilson Lake and the Rock Bass: An interactive musical experience that takes listeners on a toe-tapping adventure about growing up at a Michigan cottage. 2-2:45 p.m. July 6, Oregon Branch Library, 3340 Dustin Road, Oregon.

Fun With Food: Kids 4-7 can learn nifty tricks with edibles, including cooking, crafts and experiments. 9:30-10:15 a.m. July 6-9, Crestwood Elementary School, 111 Crestwood Dr., Swanton. $15-$85. (419) 826-7085.

Around the World in Four Days: Kids 7-10 will board “Swanton Airlines” for a whirlwind tour of four countries. Mug shots are required for “passports.” 10:30-11:15 a.m. July 6-9, Crestwood Elementary School, 111 Crestwood Dr., Swanton. $15-$85. (419) 826-7085.

Quotable Movie Quotes: The teen who can identify the most movie quotes will win two movie tickets. 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. July 6-10, Point Place Branch Library, 2727 117th St. (419) 259-5390.

Artists: Teenage art aficionados can win if they know who did which work. Noon-9 July 6-7 and 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. July 8-11, South Branch Library, 1736 Broadway. (419) 259-5395.

She Wrote It Match-Up: Pair each female author with her work. 9 a.m.-9 p.m. July 6-9 and 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. July 10-11, West Toledo Branch Library, 1320 Sylvania Ave. (419) 259-5290.

Body Art: Teens can learn the origin of henna and other temporary body art, and get designs of their own.
> 2-3 p.m. July 6, Mott Branch Library, 1085 Dorr St. Registration: (419) 259-5230.
> 4-6 p.m. July 6, Kent Branch Library, 3101 Collingwood Blvd. (419) 259-5283.
> 2-3 p.m. July 13, Toledo Heights Branch Library, 423 Shasta Dr. (419) 259-5220.
> 3-4 p.m. July 16, Lagrange Branch Library, 3422 Lagrange St. (419) 259-5280.

In the Park After Dark: Glimpse nature at night by the light of the full moon on this guided exploration. 9:30-10:30 p.m. July 7, Swan Creek Preserve Metropark, Airport Highway Airport Highway parking lot. $5. Reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

Afternoon at the Movies: Kids 8 and younger can enjoy Beverly Cleary’s “Mouse and the Motorcycle.” 2-2:45 p.m. July 7, Sylvania Branch Library, 6749 Monroe St., Sylvania. (419) 882-2089.

Resume 101: What will make your resume stand out? Learn the basics about format and content. 7-8:45 p.m. July 7, Toledo Lucas County Main Library, 325 Michigan St. Registration: (419) 259-5209.

“Jack in the Sky Place”: Joyce Davis will use her puppets to tell the story of a farmer with animals that mysteriously disappear and his quest to reclaim them.
> 2 p.m. July 7, Maumee Branch Library, 501 River Road, Maumee. (419) 259-5360.
> 6:30 p.m. July 7, Locke Branch Library, 703 Miami St. (419) 259-5310.

“A Day With No Crayons”: Enchanted Entertainers will tell this tale of about a girl whose world goes gray when her preferred artistic tools are taken away.
> 10:30 a.m. July 7, West Toledo Branch Library, 1320 Sylvania Ave. (419) 259-5290.
> 2-3 p.m. July 15, Waterville Branch Library, 800 Michigan Ave., Waterville. Registration: (419) 878-3055.

Sweet: Kids could win prizes in this contest to guess the number of candies in a jar. 9 a.m.-9 p.m. July 7 and 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. July 8-11, Kent Branch Library, 3101 Collingwood Blvd. (419) 259-5283.

Family Center Gallery Tours: These tours are coordinated with an art project to be completed in the center. 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays and 1:30 p.m. Thursdays, TMA, 2445 Monroe St. (419) 255-8000.
> July 7 and 9: Animals in Art.
> July 14 and 16: Gods and Goddesses.

Lakes and Ferns: During a walk past quiet ponds and splashing streams participants will stop and call for owls and look for bats. 6-8 p.m. July 8, Buehner Center porch, Oak Openings Preserve Metropark, 4139 Girdham Road off Route 2, Swanton. (419) 826-6463.

Cupcake Walk: Kids 11 and younger can participate. 2 p.m. July 8, Locke Branch Library, 703 Miami St. (419) 259-5310.

Tattoo Guess Who: Learn about the history of the tattoo, then match the tat to its corresponding celebrity. 2-3 p.m. July 8, Sanger Branch Library, 3030 W. Central Ave. (419) 259-5370.

Catch the Cartooning Bug: Kirk Walters will demonstrate the art of cartooning. Kids ages 8-11 can bring paper and pencils and try out the techniques. 2-2:45 p.m. July 8, Sylvania Branch Library, 6749 Monroe St., Sylvania. Registration: (419) 882-2089.

A Sandy Imagination: Use gritty supplies to make art. 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. July 8, Birmingham Branch Library, 203 Paine Ave. (419) 259-5210.

Use it again: Participants will be invited to use their imaginations and creativity to play games and make crafts using recycled materials. 2 p.m. July 8, Holland Branch Library, 1032 S. McCord Road, Holland. Registration: (419) 259-5240.

Raffi’s Birthday Party: Celebrate the children’s singer’s birthday with music and cake. 3-4 p.m. July 8, Lagrange Branch Library, 3422 Lagrange St. Registration: (419) 259-5280.

Children’s Teas: Mrs. Lincoln. Kids can get a dose of history with the spoonfuls of sugar in their drinks. 1-3 p.m. July 8, Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center, Buckland Avenue, Fremont. $12-$20. Reservations required: (419) 332-2081, ext. 38, or (800) 998-7737.

“The Bees, the Wolves, and the Birthday Cake That Wasn’t”: North Coast Theater will present this original play different groups celebrating in entirely different ways.
> 7-8 p.m. July 8, Waterville Branch Library, 800 Michigan Ave., Waterville. Registration: (419) 878-3055.
> 2 p.m. July 16, Point Place Branch Library, 2727 117th St. Registration: (419) 259-5390.
> 3 p.m. July 23, Washington Branch Library, 5560 Harvest Lane. (419) 259-5330.

Jewelry Creation Unique to You: Stephanie Bowie will show teens and tweens how to make signature jewelry. 3-4 p.m. July 9, Lagrange Branch Library, 3422 Lagrange St. (419) 259-5280.

Grandma Science: Join Dawn Shock will amaze and astound with the daily wonders that surround us. 2-2:45 p.m. July 9, Heatherdowns Branch Library, 3265 Glanzman Road. (419) 259-5270.

Wood County Historical Center & Museum Children’s Tea: “Alice in Wonderland.” Storytelling and a cuppa with that White Rabbit-chasing girl. 2 p.m. July 9, 13360 County Home Road, Bowling Green. $3-$12. Reservations: (419) 352-0967 or www.woodcountyhistory.org.

Crafty Recycling: Teens will make art based on some unique bottles. 2-3:30 p.m. July 9, Huntington Meeting Room, Toledo Lucas County Main Library, 325 Michigan St. (419) 259-5207.

A Mystery Program: Kids may have to deduce what the point of this program is. 3 p.m. July 9, South Branch Library, 1736 Broadway. (419) 259-5395.

The Citizen Scientist Butterfly Training: Visitors will learn Ohio Lepidoptera Association protocols and practice them in the butterfly transect. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. July 9, lodge, Oak Openings Preserve Metropark, 4139 Girdham Road off Route 2, Swanton. (419) 826-6463.

Ravenous Raptors: Kids 8 and older will “learn what it takes to survive as a raptor,” meet different birds of prey and build a nest box to take home. 6:30-8 p.m. July 9, Nederhouser Hall, Olander Park, 6930 W. Sylvania Ave., Sylvania. $20. (419) 882-8313.

Sixth annual Battle of East Harbor: Re-enactors will stage battles from Gettysburg. Visitors can tour the encampment, dance at a camp ball (7:30 p.m. July 11), tour Fort Johnson, Johnson’s Island and its architectural dig, see medical, cavalry and arms demonstrations and take part in activities. July 10-12, East Harbor State Park, 1159 N. Buck Road/Route 269, Lakeside/Marblehead. (419) 734-4424, ext. 2, or www.thebattleofeastharbor.com.

Horse-drawn carriage rides: Tour President Rutherford B. Hayes’ estate the way he would have. 1-5 p.m. July 11, Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center, Spiegel Grove, Hayes and Buckland avenues, Fremont. $3. (419) 332-2081, (800) 998-7737 or www.rbhayes.org.

Calm to Conflict: Visitors can enlist in a Civil War regiment and take a military transport boat as they prepare to enter the war. 6-8 p.m. July 11, Kimble’s Landing, Providence Metropark, 13827 Route 24 West (at Route 578), Grand Rapids. $10. Reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

Wee Workshop: Turtle Time. Children 3-5 and their adult companions will learn about native turtles, exploring their habitat and making a project to take home. 10-11:30 a.m. July 11, Metroparks Hall, Wildwood Preserve Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. $5. Reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

Incredible Insects: Learn to recognize the eight most common orders of insects, then test those identification skills in the meadow. 1:30-3:30 p.m. July 11, Metroparks Hall, Wildwood Preserve Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. (419) 535-3056.

Fiddle Contest and Summer on the Farm: Guests can experience life on a farm as it was more than 100 year ago, from making ice cream, butter and rope to participating in a spelling bee, washing clothes on a scrub board and plucking feathers from a goose. Ricky Prater and the Midnight Travelers will kick off a fiddle-focused afternoon at 12:30. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. July 11, Sauder Village, 22611 Route 2, Archbold. $6.50-$12.50. (800) 590-9755.

Nature’s Nursery open house: Get to know this nonprofit wildlife rehabilitation and conservation education organization and its home, the Blue Creek
Conservation Area. 1-5 p.m. July 12, 7790 Schadel Rd., Whitehouse. (419) 877-0060 or www.natures-nursery.org.

Fear Factor Feast: Munch on bugs, drink buttermilk and slurp slimy goodies. 2 p.m. July 13, Waterville Branch Library, 800 Michigan Ave., Waterville. Registration: (419) 878-3055.

No-Bake Food: Rice Krispy treats are on the menu. 2-3 p.m. July 13, Mott Branch Library, 1085 Dorr St. (419) 259-5230.

Bottle Cap Charms: Participants will use bottle caps to create charms for a necklace or bracelet. 7 p.m. July 13, Oregon Branch Library, 3340 Dustin Road, Oregon. (419) 259-5250.

Performing Arts Camp: Kids will work with professional directors to learn about theater while staging a production of “The Little Mermaid” (7 p.m. July 17 and 4 p.m. July 18; $3-$5). Age-appropriate workshops, such as readers’ theater, technical theater, make-up, movement, improvisation and more will be led by local teaching artists. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. July 13-17, First Presbyterian Church, 2330 S. Main St., Findlay. $105. (419) 422-3412, ext. 24, or education@artspartnership.com.

Green, Green and More Green: Teens who can determine the difference between chartreuse and olive could win. Noon-9 July 13-14 and 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. July 15-18, South Branch Library, 1736 Broadway. (419) 259-5395.

Be Creative with Jazz: Discover which instruments are part of the jazz band with Chuck Taylor and the Dixie Squid. Learn about each instrument, the role it plays in the band and maybe even get the chance to play along. 2 p.m. July 14, Maumee Branch Library, 501 River Road, Maumee. Registration: (419) 259-5360.

Miss Nelson Returns: This local storyteller and raconteur will share tales from the storytelling tradition and from her own life experiences. 7-8 p.m. July 14, Sanger Branch Library, 3030 W. Central Ave. Registration: (419) 259-5295.

On Your Toes! A ballerina from the Toledo Ballet will help kids 5-8 pick up a few moves. 2-2:45 p.m. July 14, Sylvania Branch Library, 6749 Monroe St., Sylvania. Registration: (419) 882-2089.

Rock On, Sylvania! Naturalist Sandy Gratop will do a fossil presentation and answer questions. Families who complete the scavenger hunt could win prizes. 7-8 p.m. July 14 (June 15, if rainy), Fossil Park, Sylvania. Registration: (419) 882-2089.

Mercer Mayer’s Little Critter: This famous children’s book character will visit for story time and photos.
> 3-4 p.m. July 14, Kent Branch Library, 3101 Collingwood Blvd. (419) 259-5283.
> 3-4 p.m. July 15, Lagrange Branch Library, 3422 Lagrange St. Registration: (419) 259-5280.

Banjo the Clown: Patrick Jolly will perform magic and music and juggle, too. He and the kids will write and perform an original song.
> 10:30 a.m. July 14, Waterville Branch Library, 800 Michigan Ave., Waterville. (419) 878-3055.
> 1-2 p.m. July 14, Mott Branch Library, 1085 Dorr St. (419) 259-5230.
> 4 p.m. July 14, Washington Branch Library, 5560 Harvest Lane. (419) 259-5330.
> 7-7:45 p.m. July 14, Oregon Branch Library, 3340 Dustin Road, Oregon. (419) 259-5250.
> 1:30 p.m. July 15, Toledo Lucas County Main Library, 325 Michigan St. (419) 259-5207.
> 7 p.m. July 15, Holland Branch Library, 1032 S. McCord Road, Holland. Registration: (419) 259-5240.

MOVIES
Saturday matinees: Locke Branch Library will screen movies on its big screen. Noon June 27 and July 11, 703 Miami St. (419) 259-5310.

“The Bad News Bears”: A has-been (Walter Matthau) coaches a ragtag team of misfits to little league glory. 2 p.m. June 28, Ritz Theatre, 20 S. Washington St., Tiffin. $3. (419) 448-8544.

Silver Screen Classics: Classic movies at classic prices. 1 p.m. Mondays, Showcase Cinemas Levis Commons, 2005 Hollenbeck Dr., Perrysburg. $2. (419) 891-5039.
> “A Farewell to Arms,” June 29.
> “Eternally Yours,” July 6.
> “At War With the Army,” July 13.

Movie Madness: Visitors bring the sodas, the popcorn’s provided at this series of G-rated Disney flicks. 6:30 p.m. Mondays, Maumee Branch Library, 501 River Road, Maumee. (419) 259-5360.
> “Old Yeller,” June 29.
> “Blackbeard’s Ghost,” July 6.
> “No Deposit No Return,” July 13.

“Wall-E”: After decades alone, a trash-collecting robot finds love after another robot is sent to see if Earth is safe again for human life.
> 1:30 p.m. July 1, Toledo Lucas County Main Library, 325 Michigan St. (419) 259-5207.
> 1-2:30 p.m. July 7, Mott Branch Library, 1085 Dorr St. (419) 259-5230.

“Tale of Despereaux”: See this movie, based on the award-winning novel by Kate DiCamillo, about a mouse, rat and princess … and soup.
> 2 p.m. July 2, Heatherdowns Branch Library, 3265 Glanzman Road. (419) 259-5270.
> 1:30 p.m. July 8, Toledo Lucas County Main Library, 325 Michigan St. (419) 259-5207.
> 3 p.m. July 9, Washington Branch Library, 5560 Harvest Lane. (419) 259-5330.

“Kung Fu Panda”: Po’s dreams of becoming a martial arts master are put to the test when he is chosen to study alongside his idols. 2-3:30 p.m. July 6, Sylvania Branch Library, 6749 Monroe St., Sylvania. Registration: (419) 882-2089.

“Spiderwick Chronicles”: After moving into a run-down estate, brothers Jared and Simon and sister Mallory find themselves pulled into an alternate world full of faeries and other creatures. 7-8:45 p.m. July 7, Sylvania Branch Library, 6749 Monroe St., Sylvania. Registration: (419) 882-2089.

“Harry Potter” marathon: The main library will screen the existing movies before the release of “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.” McMaster Center, Toledo Lucas County Main Library, 325 Michigan St. (419) 259-5207.
> “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone,” 1-3:30 p.m., and “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets,” 6-8:30 p.m. July 13.
> “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkeban,” 6-8:30 p.m. July 14
> “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire,” 6-8:30 p.m. July 15.
> “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix,” 6-8:30 p.m. July 16.

MUSIC
Blarney Irish Pub: Catch local acts while taking in the pub’s modern Irish and American fare. 601 Monroe St. (419) 418-2339 or www.theblarneyirishpub.com.
> Chris Shutters Band: June 27.
> Rick Whited: July 2.
> Shane Piasecki: July 3-4.
> Coyote Run: 7:30 p.m. July 4.
> Jeff Steward: July 9.
> Trailer Park Ninjas: July 10.
> Celtic Cross: July 11.

Bronze Boar: Be sure to check out this Warehouse District tavern’s namesake, overhead near the entrance. 20 S. Huron St. (419) 244-2627 or www.bronzeboar.com.
> Stone House: June 27.
> Joe Wood Band: July 2.
> Polka Floyd: July 3.
> Dave Carpenter, Jaeglers: July 4.
> River Edge: July 9.
> Swamp Kings: July 10.
> Crucial 420: July 11.

Fat Fish Blue: Serving blues and similar sounds, as well as bayou-style grub. Levis Commons, 6140 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg. (419) 931-3474.
> Tom Turner & Slow Burn: 8:30 p.m. June 27, $2.
> Arctic Clam: 9:30 p.m. July 3, $2.
> Roomful of Blues: 8:30 p.m. July 9, $18.
> Malkum Gibson and the Mighty Juke: 9:30 p.m. July 10 and 8:30 p.m. July 11, $2.

Frankie’s: Toledo’s venue for rock. 308 Main St. (419) 693-5300 or www.FrankiesInnerCity.com.
> The Germs, Krum Bums, the Red Scare: 8 p.m. June 27, $14-$16.
> Kill Whitney Dead, the Demonstration, Wretched, In the Hands of a Nihilist, Banner of the Sun, Hour of Victory, Death Upon Her: 6 p.m. June 28, $8-$10.
> Phantogram, Radio Broadcast: 9 p.m. June 29, $6-$8.
> T-Town Tuesday: Infernal Names, Black Horse, Floral Terrace, Goot, the In Crowd. 9 p.m. June 30, $2-$4.
> Inept, Artifex Pereo, Lost at Sea: 9 p.m. July 2, $6-$8.
> Locrian, Hivemind, Needlehammer: 9 p.m. July 2, basement, $5.
> The Highgears, Los Viking Del Muerto: 9 p.m. July 3, $5-$7.
> T-Town Tuesday: Infernal Names, Rocketboys, Dear Future. 9 p.m. July 7, $2-$4.
> School Boy Humor, Action Item, the Fritz: 6 p.m. July 8, $8-$10.
> All the Day Holiday, Kaleidescope Brighter, All Get Out: 6 p.m. July 9, $6-$8.
> Olivia Mancini & the Mates, Matt Truman Ego Trip: 9 p.m. July 9, $5-$7.
> Stephan Jerzak, Breathe Electric, Romance on a Rocketship, Chase Coy: 4 p.m. July 10, $8-$10.
> The Movement, Jason LaPorte Trio, Harry & the Hood: 9 p.m. July 10, $6-$8.
> Boogaloosa Prayer, Joey and the Traitors: 9 p.m. July 11, $6-$8.
> Unearth, For the Fallen Dreams, Woe of Tyrants, Starring Janet Leigh: 7 p.m. July 14, $15-$19.

Headliners: All ages, all genres are welcome. 4500 N. Detroit Ave. (419) 269-4500 or www.headlinerstoledo.com.
> Family Force 5, Spoken, Southbound Fearing, Honest Abulic Intentions: 6 p.m. June 30, $13-$15.

Manhattan’s: This “slice of the Big Apple” in the Glass City provides entertainment most weekends. 1516 Adams St. (419) 243-6675 or www.manhattanstoledo.com.
> Frostbite: June 27.
> Quartet Bernadette: 5:30 p.m. July 1.
> Quick Trio: July 2.
> Dick Lange Trio: July 3.
> Ed Levy Trio: July 9.
> Yes, I Said Yes: July 10.
> Swamp Kings: July 11.

Mickey Finn’s: A variety of genres to wash your drinks down with. Open mic nights (no cover), 8 p.m. Wednesdays. 9 p.m., 602 Lagrange Street at North Huron Street. $5-$7 cover. (419) 297-1943.
> Amherst, Mellow Down Easy: June 27.

Murphy’s Place: Jazz @@ straight, smooth, bebop or traditional @@ all kinds are played here. 151 Water St. (419) 241-7732 or www.murphysplacejazz.com.
> Glenda McFarlin: 9 p.m. June 27, $6.
> Clifford Murphy and Claude Black: 8 p.m. June 29-30, $4.
> Anna Givens: 9 p.m. July 3, $4
> Fireworks, plus Clifford Murphy and Claude Black: open at 5 p.m. July 4.

Omni: Toledo’s newest club is a venue for music (and music lovers) of all types. 2567 W. Bancroft St. (419) 474-1333.
> Jani Lane of Warrant: 7:30 p.m. July 10, $10.
> Hollywood Undead, Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, the Sleeping, Mest: 6 p.m. July 14, $20-$25.

Ottawa Tavern: Casual meals with weekend entertainment. 1815 Adams St. (419) 725-5483 or www.otavern.com.
> DJs Shane Shirey & Luke Schira: July 2.
> The Real Magicians: July 4.
> Ben Barefoot: July 9.
> Stone House: July 10.

Ragtime Rick’s Second Edition: The tavern/restaurant devoted to jazz and ragtime has reopened in a new location and rededicated itself to music and fun. 301 River Road, Maumee. (419) 389-0956.
> Gene Parker & the Jazz Trio: 8:30-11:30 p.m. Wednesdays.
> Ragtime Rick & Wes Linenkugel: 8:30-11:30 p.m. Thursdays.
> The Cake Walkin Jass Band: 8:30 p.m.-midnight Fridays.
> Ragtime Rick & Banjo Betsy: 8:30 p.m.-midnight Saturdays.

Brown Bag Lunch Concerts: Noon’s noshes get better with serenades from local musicians. Noon-1:30 Wednesdays through July 29, Woodland Park, 429 E. Boundary St., Perrysburg. (419) 873-2787 or www.perrysburgarts.org.

Bluegrass concerts: Local musicians will bring the sounds of the South to life. 5-10 p.m. Thursdays through July 30, Conn-Weissenberger American Legion Post 587, 2020 W. Alexis Road. (419) 471-0587.

Courtyard Concerts: Beats are paired with eats for this music series: each day’s music features food from a specific eatery. 1:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesdays through Aug. 4, Latham Courtyard, South Main and East Sandusky streets, Findlay.
> One Way Out Band/Katie’s Kids Cafe: July 7.
> Johnathon Peeler/Great Scot: July 14.

Brown Bag Concerts: “Grab a blanket or lawn chair, your favorite co-workers” and munchies for free lunchtime tunes. 12:15-1:15 p.m. Wednesdays through Aug. 5, Toledo-Lucas County Main Library north lawn, 325 Michigan St. (419) 259-5209.
> Steve Jad (acoustic folk): July 1.
> Just Kiddin’ Around (children’s music): July 8.

Music in the Park: This summer concert series brings melodies to park-goers. 7 p.m. Thursdays through Aug. 7, Commodore Square, Louisiana and Indiana streets, Perrysburg. (419) 873-2787 or www.perrysburgarts.org.

Lunch at Levis Square concert series: Eat to the beat while taking in free lunchtime entertainment. Noon-1:30 Thursdays through Aug. 27, Levis Square, Madison Avenue and North St. Clair Street. (419) 249-5494.

Summer concert series: Music lovers are invited to bring lawn chairs, blankets, friends and family for live tunes. 6-8 p.m. Saturdays, Lake District amphitheater, Shops at Fallen Timbers, 3100 Main St., Maumee. (419) 878-6255 or www.theshopsatfallentimbers.com.
> June 27: Kerry Clark Band.
> July 4: Good Stuff Maynard.
> July 11: Empire Drift.

Hamler Country Music Fest: Some of country’s hottest up-and-comers and established acts are scheduled to perform, including Shilo, Rhett Akins, Clay Underwood, Shenandoah and Tony Rio. 2 p.m. June 27, Hamler Community Park, Route 109, Hamler. $20-$35. hamlersummerfest.com or www.countryfest2009.com.

Dave Koz and Brian Culbertson: These jazz masters will be performing side by side, collaborating on each other’s hits. 7 p.m. June 28, Valentine Theatre, 400 N. Superior St. $35-$75. (419) 242-2787.

Voice Workshop: Kids ages 7-11 will receive instruction on the correct way to sing, learn new songs and get audition tips. 9:30-11 a.m. June 29-July 2, 577 Foundation, 577 E. Front St., Perrysburg. $32. Registration: (419) 861-4618 or pianoadventures@buckeye-express.com.

Back in the Day Summer Soul Jam: Midnight Star, Al Hudson and One Way will make the season smooth. 7:30 p.m. July 3, Stranahan Theater, 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd. $25-$45. Stranahan Theater, 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd. (419) 381-8851 or ticketmaster.com.

Club Friday: Some of the city’s most talented performers entertain museum-goers during TMA’s It’s Friday events. 6:30-9:30 p.m., Peristyle Terrace, 2445 Monroe St. (419) 255-8000.
> July 3: Hep Cat Revival (swing).
> July 10: It’s Essential (R&B, jazz).

Vivace Tutti String Camp: Young musicians who have completed a year of training can attend this camp that will conclude with a gala concert. 9 a.m.-noon July 6-10, 577 Foundation, 577 E. Front St., Perrysburg. $65. Registration: vivacestringcamps@sbcglobal.net or (419) 874-4174.

Vivace Camerata String Camp: High school musicians can attend this camp that will conclude with a gala concert. 1-4 p.m. July 6-10, 577 Foundation, 577 E. Front St., Perrysburg. $65. Registration: vivacestringcamps@sbcglobal.net or (419) 874-4174.

Sunset Serenades: Bob Wurst. Take in sweet sounds as the sun sets over Lake Olander. 7 p.m.-dusk July 8, Nederhouser Community Hall deck, Olander Park, 6930 W. Sylvania Ave., Sylvania. $3 a car; or park at Tam-O-Shanter, 7060 Sylvania Ave. (419) 882-8313.

Verandah Concerts: The Unexpected Party. The presidential porch of Rutherford B. Hayes becomes the stage for free outdoor concerts. 6:45-8 p.m. July 8, Hayes Presidential Center, Buckland Avenue, Fremont. (419) 332-2081, ext. 38, or (800) 998-7737.

Jazz in the Garden: The joint (and the junipers) will jump with the sounds of area bebop, smooth and ragtime jazz musicians. 6:30-8:30 p.m. July 9, Toledo Botanical Garden, 5403 Elmer Dr. $6-$7. (419) 241-5299 or (419) 536-5566.

Music Under the Stars: Free, themed performances featuring the Toledo Symphony. 7:30 p.m. July 12, Toledo Zoo Amphitheatre, 2700 Broadway. (419) 241-1272.

Music by the River: Blankets and chairs will dot the library’s lawn for this concert series featuring the Maumee Community Band. 7 p.m. July 14 (June 21 if rain), Maumee Branch Library, 501 River Road, Maumee. (419) 259-5360.

SPORT
Team Basketball Shootout: Area high school varsity girls basketball teams interested in competing against some of the best in the region are invited to participate in this two-day Express Girls Summer Slam event. 9 a.m. June 27, Student Health and Activities Center, Owens Community College, 30335 Oregon Road, Perrysburg. (567) 661-7941 or (800) 466-9367, ext. 7941.

Jamie Farr Owens Corning Classic: No. 1 player in the world Lorena Ochoa, defending champion Paula Creamer and Michelle Wie will compete in the 25th annual event. The first round starts July 2. 7 a.m.-6 p.m. June 29-30, 7 a.m.-7 p.m. July 1-3, 7 a.m.-4 p.m. July 4 and 8 a.m.-5 p.m. July 5, Highland Meadows Golf Club, 7455 Erie St., Sylvania. $15 weekdays, $20 weekend, $50 ground badges. (419) 531-3277 or www.jamiefarrowenscorning.com.

Mud Hens vs. ALS: The Toledo team will “mark the 70th anniversary of Lou Gehrig’s ‘farewell to baseball’ speech” with a game against the Columbus Clippers, information and activities devoted to fighting amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (“Lou Gehrig’s disease”). A highlight of the planned silent auction is a jersey with Gehrig’s number. The night will conclude with fireworks. 7 p.m. July 4, Fifth Third Field, 406 Washington St. $9-$26. (419) 725-4367; www.alsaohio.org.

Varsity Developmental Soccer Academy: Fifth- through ninth-graders can get their kicks with experienced coaches who will prepare younger players for varsity play through focus on “technical and tactical aspects” of the game. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. July 13-17, Erme Soccer Complex, 5560 Harvest Lane. $100. Registration: (419) 380-8211 or www.varsitydevelopmental.com.

STAGE
Connxtions Comedy Club: Comedians bring their best yuks for your amusement. 5319 Heatherdowns Blvd. $12-$14. (unless noted otherwise). (419) 867-9041.
> Scott Long: 8 and 10 p.m. June 27.
> Cal Verduchi: 8 p.m. July 9-11 and 10 p.m. July 10-11.

Funny Bone: 6140 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg. $12-$14, unless noted otherwise. (419) 931-3474.
> John Morgan: 7 and 10 p.m. June 27 and 7 p.m. June 28.
> James Sibley: 7 p.m. July 2 and 5; 8 and 10:30 p.m. July 3; and 9 p.m. July 4.
> The Around the Bend Players: 7:30 p.m. July 8, $8.
> Untamed Shrews: 7 p.m. July 9 and 12; 8 and 10:30 p.m. July 10; and 7 and 10 p.m. July 11.

Shakespeare at Sunset: Outdoor performances of the Bard’s “All’s Well That Ends Well,” a comedy about a wife’s attempts to win her husband’s love, will be staged by the Glacity Theatre Collective. 7 p.m. June 27, Millennium Theatre, Maumee Valley Country Day School, 1715 S. Reynolds Road; 2 p.m. June 28, Alida Ashley (Outdoor) Amphitheatre, Maumee Valley Country Day. $15. (419) 530-2254 or glacity.tix.com.

“The Producers”: “A conniving Broadway backer and a neurotic accountant discover they could make more off a flop than a hit,” so “Springtime for Hitler” hits the boards. 8 p.m. June 27 and 3 p.m. June 28, Croswell Opera House, 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian, Mich. $24-$28. (517) 264-7469.

“The Wiz”: Dorothy’s journey in Oz turns musical … and funky. 7 p.m. July 9-11 and 2:30 p.m. July 12, Toledo Repertoire Theatre, 16 10th St. $5-$10. (419) 243-9277.

“The Real Inspector Hound”: Tom Stoppard’s play about critics who become embroiled in the corny whodunit they’re commenting on. 8 p.m. July 10-11 and 16-18, Village Players Theater, 2740 Upton Ave. between Monroe St. and Central Ave. $10. (419) 472-6817.

“High School Musical II”: Troy, Gabriella, Sharpay, Ryan and the rest of the East High gang dive into summer employment. 8 p.m. July 10-11 and 16-18 and 3 p.m. July 12 and 19, Croswell Opera House, 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian, Mich. $16-$28. (517) 264-7469.

WHEEL FUN
Murder Mystery Dinner Train: Two brothers fight over control of their father’s newspaper after his death in “Headline: Deadline.” 7-10 p.m. Saturdays, Blissfield Old Road Dinner Train’s depot, 301 E. Adrian St., Blissfield, Mich. $70. (888) 467-2451.

Toledo, Lake Erie & Western Railway and Museum: Board the Bluebird for a trip through time on the Nickel-Plate Railroad. 1, 2:30 and 4 p.m. Saturdays-Sundays and holidays and 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Wednesdays-Thursdays through August, 49 N. Sixth St., Waterville. $7.50-$11. (419) 878-2177 or www.tlew.org.

Train rides: Visitors can hop a ride on the rails, via a train with diesel engine 101, 5-8 p.m. Saturdays; or steam engine 901, 1-4 p.m. Sundays through Sept. 6, Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation, 11600 County Road 99, Findlay. $1. (419) 423-2995 or www.nworrp.org.

Pop’s Cruise-In: Auto enthusiasts are welcome to admire or enter this weekly car show. Prizes and music come standard. 6-8 p.m. Mondays, The Andersons, 3725 Williston Road, Northwood. Register at Rick’s Cafe in the parking lot. (419) 698-8400.

Bike to the Bay: Riders can choose from four routes (35 to 200 miles) and up to two days of riding for this event to support the National MS Society. 7 a.m. June 27-5 p.m. June 28 from Maumee to Port Clinton. (419) 897-9533 or www.nationalmssociety.org/chapters/OHO/index.aspx.

Portage River Festival: Antique cars, trucks and tractors, as well as model railroad displays, will be on display; food, music, crafts and more are in store, too. June 28, Ory Park, Rice Street, Elmore. (419) 862-3552 or www.villageofelmore.com.

Portage River Bicycle Tour: Bicyclists will “travel mostly flat terrain” on routes of 10, 31, 62 or 100 miles, following the river toward Lake Erie. 7 a.m. June 28 from Woodmore High School, 633 Fremont St., Elmore. $15 (before June 23)-$20. (419) 243-7680, www.hitoledo.org or www.freewheel.com.

All Classic Car Show: Auto enthusiasts are welcome to admire or enter this show. Prizes and music come standard. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. July 5, The Andersons, 3725 Williston Road, Northwood. (419) 698-8400.

Caboose Tours: The best part about the train? Arguably, the end. Take a peek inside on these tours. Sundays 1-4 p.m. July 5, Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation, 11600 County Road 99, Findlay. $1. (419) 423-2995 or www.nworrp.org.

Pemberville Cruisin’ Nights: Check out the tailfins and chrome while music from the ’50s and ’60s plays. Giveaways, a farmers market, antiques, ice cream and kettle corn are planned as well. 5-8 p.m. July 9, Main Street, Pemberville. (419) 287-3236 or (419) 287-3274.

Nationwide Insurance Show Car Pit Stop: Try your hands at racing in a simulator. 3-8 p.m. July 10, The Andersons, 4701 Talmadge Road. (419) 473-3232.

Third Annual Detective Keith Dressel Memorial Ride: Motorcyclists are invited to take a 75-mile round trip to benefit a scholarship in Dressel’s memory. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. July 11, St. James Club, 7337 W. Bancroft St. $25-$35. (419) 699-0577 or www.keithdresselmemorialride.com.

Classics on Main: A car show featuring more than 300 prime condition autos from prewar fabrication to modified hot rods @@ and proximity to Snook’s Dream Cars automobile museum. Noon-4 July 11, Main Street, Bowling Green. (419) 354-4332.

Classic Car Show: Autos of yesteryear will be on display to the music of Cruisin’ Zeake and his oldies machine. 3-8 p.m. July 11, Main Street, Shops at Fallen Timbers, 3100 Main St., Maumee. (419) 878-6255 or www.theshopsatfallentimbers.com.

Director Clyde Scoles said he would take a pay cut before laying off any employees at the Toledo-Lucas County Public Library, if the proposed state budget cuts are approved.
Gov. Ted Strickland proposed balancing the budget on June 19 by cutting $227 million from the Ohio Public Library Fund, causing Lucas County libraries to cut 25 percent of the annual budget, Scoles said.
“We’re talking about not only tightening our belts, but strangulation,” Scoles said.
The library employs 338 people and allots 55 percent of its shrinking $35 million budget to pay them. Scoles said no one has had to take any pay cuts in the past year, despite a 20 percent decrease in state funding last year and a 5 percent decrease in property tax funding.
About two years ago, Ohio library directors agreed to receive 2.2 percent of the state’s general tax funding rather than 5.7 percent of personal income tax because the general tax fund usually increases, but since has taken a budgetary hit, he said.
Even without the proposed budget, which would wipe out more than $2 million from Toledo-Lucas County Public Library’s budget from July to December, Scoles predicted the library would lose nearly $1.8 million.
In April, the library had to cut $300,000 normally spent on materials, such as books, magazines or other media annually because of the 20 percent decrease in the state’s general tax fund, he said.
The Wood County District Public Library employed 52 people two years ago and is down to 27 workers, who have all had to take 4.5 percent paycuts and cope with losing hours, as well, said director Elaine Paulette.
Within the past year, she’s had to eliminate a staff position, cut operation time by nearly 13 hours and cut $50,000 from the materials budget, decreasing the number of new materials by 31 percent. If the General Assembly passes the proposed budget, the Wood County District Public Library will have an $800,000 budget, rather than the usual
$1.6 million, she said.
Wood County’s library does not have any operating levies and receives 86 percent of its funding from the Ohio Public Library Fund and the rest from private donors.
The Wood County District Public Library could close for a week at the end of the summer to save a week’s worth of payroll, to avoid laying anyone off permanently, Paulette said.

Lights flash and pop at unpredictable speeds, from untraceable directions. Three-dozen sources of noise clash and compete for control in a cacophony of chaos. Motion compels the tracking eye from every peripheral angle; pupils swirl, desperately trying to keep up with the carnival-ride centrifugal force of activity. Colors assault the eye and violate perceptions of normalcy like nameless, shifting fogs from a Lovecraft story. Human beings devolve into little more than wild animals, running, jumping, rolling and bouncing like pingpong balls in an industrial dryer.
It is not combat.
It is not battle.
It is Chuck E. Cheese.
Our South Florida family arranged a visit to the venerable pizza palace to celebrate our sons’ mid-June birthdays. Evan is now 3 and Sean is 1. I am now 650 years older than when Evan was born, and I appreciate more than ever how fleeting and unstoppable the march of time is.
I had never been to a party at Chuck E. Cheese and did not know what to expect.
Nothing I could have expected would have prepared me for the experience anyway.
God bless the staff and crew at Chuck E. Cheese; as much as I adore my perfect little angels, I can imagine the mental trip from parent to curmudgeon being greatly accelerated by prolonged exposure to the screaming hordes of other people’s delinquent brats at the arcade and restaurant.
For the party, Evan — who between Chuck E., Mickey and Minnie must believe all mice are 6-foot, waving, dead-eyed creatures who spread joy and treats like vermin Santas — was given all sorts of birthday goodies: a Chuck E. Cheese metal lunch box, a nifty Chuck E. Cheese birthday medal, a tableside visit from Chuck E. Cheese, an enthusiastically sung round of “Happy Birthday” by Chuck E. Cheese employees and a Chuck E. Cheese birthday cake. He was also given approximately 3,000 Chuck E. Cheese game tokens, in the same kind of holes-in-the-bottom plastic cups used in casinos.
Sean is too young to understand any of the hoopla, but he stayed focused on the celebration and tried several times to poke his tiny, but insistent fingers through Chuck E. Cheese’s eyes. I am assuming that is natural curiosity, not a critical comment on his part.
After the celebration, I took Evan to the arcade area to start spending tokens. He is too little for the video games and I am not ready to see him with anything resembling a video-game gun in his hands, but there were a number of skill games he fell in love with. His favorite was a ski ball-type game, in which a token freed up five pingpong balls and the object was to throw them into buckets; the farther away the bucket, the greater the ticket value. Evan’s joy was to take all five pingpong balls at once and dump them in the very first bucket. This process took about 10 seconds; the game gives you two minutes to play, so Evan would jump up and down and jam token after token into the machine, waiting 110 seconds for the next round.
I lost track after Round 17.
Before Evan could initiate what I estimated to be Round 22, I pried him away from the machine to explore the rest of the arcade area. A few things caught his eye, but I soon realized I would retain enough left over tokens to fill a small pirate’s treasure chest.
Evan clamored to sit in a motion-simulator ride, so I buckled him in and stood beside him outside the car, expecting a gentle jaunt through a meadow full of animated bunnies; instead, the screen showed an Elvira, Mistress of the Dark-hosted tour of a horror carnival, complete with zombies and every conceivable nasty creature. Evan, uneducated in the ways of the undead, thought the bats were cool and did not seem to realize he should have been terrified. I credit Elvira’s animated, lava lamp cleavage, which kept us both distracted and inspired nostalgia in one of us for our breastfeeding days.
I won’t burden you with the knowledge of how we spent the remaining tokens, but it involved a SpongeBob SquarePants machine and attempts to drop a token, hoping it would land on a specific square; we hoarded almost 300 tickets for that little pastime.
All of us were exhausted and battered by the Chuck E. Cheese experience, but Evan had so much fun he talked about it nonstop for three days. Which is the point, right? It may be laughably simplistic to reduce the parenting adventure to an evening at Chuck E. Cheese, but the analogy is so perfect it demands consideration.
Our boys are 3 and 1, and the months have consisted of lights flashing and popping at unpredictable speeds, from untraceable directions; three-dozen sources of noise clashing and competing for control in a cacophony of chaos; motion compelling the tracking eye from every peripheral angle; pupils swirling, desperately trying to keep up with the carnival-ride centrifugal force of activity; colors assaulting the eye and violating perceptions of normalcy like nameless, shifting fogs from a Lovecraft story; human beings devolving into little more than wild animals, running, jumping, rolling and bouncing like pingpong balls in an industrial dryer.
It is combat.
It is battle.
It is parenthood.
Happy birthday, Evan and Sean.

Michael S. Miller is editor in chief of Toledo Free Press. Contact him at mmiller@toledofreepress.com.

Couples needing a recharge in romance need look no further than Belamere Suites in Perrysburg. Since opening in 2004, the 18-room hotel has become a safe haven for secluded getaways and intimate celebrations.
“Today’s society is such that people work all day before coming home and passing in,” said John Kranjec, who owns Belamere with his wife Theresa. “Belamere is a special place to come to. It is about getting solitude and peace.”
Kranjec said his establishment offered many amenities for 21 and up couples looking for tranquility. He said Belamere offers two different suites, one an ultimate Jacuzzi suite and the other a presidential swimming pool suite. The former, he said, costs $119 Sunday through Thursday and $149 Friday and $179 Saturday. The latter, meanwhile, runs at $219 Sunday through Thursday, $279 Friday and $299 Saturday. Kranjec said either way customers can expect a lasting impression.

“People come here to make memories,” he said. “People are happy when they get here and they are happy when they leave.”
Front desk receptionist Julie Wegman said she has seen many repeat clients since starting in January 2009. She said the Belamere’s quality service often draws customers back.
“Our customers do not have to do anything,” she said. “Everything is ready as soon as a couple walks into the room. It is the perfect getaway.”
Kranjec said such pampering is the Belamere’s goal. He said his hotel’s candles, rose petal arrangements and treat baskets often keep guests occupied in a private playground their entire stay.
“Every single thing can be delivered to their suite so couples never even have to leave their room,” he said. “People like the peace and quiet while being served hand and foot.”
Kranjec said more adventurous guests can venture into the surrounding area should they desire fresh air. He said helicopter rides typically lasting 45 minutes are available by appointment. Beyond this, he said, the hotel is located in an interesting community within driving distance of Toledo.
“Perrysburg is a wonderful town and a great place to go to,” he said. “Toledo is close enough that we can take advantage of it as well.”
The hotel’s expansion into Columbus does not mean its original location will be neglected, however. Kranjec said he will be building five new rooms overlooking a pond on the Perrysburg property. He said he is also looking into hiring a singing quartet that could serenade couples for birthdays or other special events.
“Every year we get better and better,” Kranjec said. “People’s expectations are high when they come to a place like this. To meet or exceed those expectations is what we try to do and want to do.”

Belamere Suites is a 2009 Toledo Free Press Editor’s Choice Award Winner. Local businesses with strong reputations for quality and service will be highlighted in this occasional series.

Judd Silverman admits he still gets excited on the first day of the Jamie Farr Owens Corning Classic — even 25 years later.
The founder and director of the tournament was inspired by his love for the game when he came up with a tournament that would help his hometown of Toledo.
“I wanted to bring a sporting event to Toledo on an annual basis, which could raise money for local charities,” Silverman said. “Golf is a great game for people of all ages. I think the tournament has provided lots of excitement for the community.”

Back then, Silverman was a caddy for professional PGA golfer Craig Stadler and liked the idea of charity fundraisers that partnered golf with star-studded name value.
Wanting a similar endorsement for a charity tournament in Toledo, he sought out city native Farr. Silverman admired The “M*A*S*H” actor and was a big fan of the television show.
“I thought it was great [that] communities had these charitable tournaments with a celebrity element to them,” Silverman said. “Jamie is a very wonderful man who is very generous with his time. He is a great role model.”
Farr has just as many wonderful things to say about Silverman. In a June 19 e-mail, he stated that he got word of Silverman’s idea just after he started golfing.
Fresh off his stint on television, Farr had played as a celebrity player in the Dinah Shore LPGA tournament in Palm Springs, Calif.
He was receptive toward Silverman’s proposal, but his one condition was a tournament charter that guaranteed various children’s charities benefited, in particular the Ronald McDonald House.
“The rest is history,” Farr said.
“I am delighted that Judd got the idea 25 years ago to try to bring a major sporting event to our city of Toledo,” he said. “It takes people with vision to want to do something which may seem at the time impossible or improbable.”
Sandy White, the classic’s director of operations, said the tournament’s field of players will be one of the most talented this year, appropriate for its silver anniversary. The tournament runs June 29 through July 5 at Sylvania’s Highland Meadows Golf Club.
“It is shaping up to be the best field we have ever had,” White said. “The players have great personalities and will sign autographs until their hands fall off.”
Defending Farr classic champion Paula Creamer said in a June 23 e-mail, courtesy of her agent of record, Jay Burton, she met Silverman during her 2005 run in the classic. She hopes she can play in it “for many summers to come,”  she said.
“Mr. Silverman is clearly a huge fan of the LPGA and someone who puts passion and pride into running this first-class event,” Creamer said. “It’s communities like Sylvania that have allowed the LPGA to enjoy success for nearly 60 years and we appreciate all that Mr. Silverman and his great staff do for us. This is one tour stop that ranks high on my ‘must play’ list every summer.”
Silverman said his main goal is fundraising for local children’s groups. Money from this year’s classic will go toward 12 area charities.
“I want to put on another first-class sporting event, while benefiting local children’s charities,” he said. “This has a positive economic impact on Toledo.”
Mike Thaman, CEO of Owens Corning and tournament golf chairman, said Silverman’s leadership has benefited Toledo. Even during economically “tough times,” local residents support Silverman’s efforts, he said.
“Judd is a wonderful human being,” Thaman said. “This tournament was built on his desire to do something great for Toledo. I really do believe this year’s tournament will be the best yet.”
Rob Powers, WTVG Channel 13’s sports director, said Silverman’s hard work is the reason the classic does so well each year. His devotion has made the classic a Toledo institution, Powers said.
“Judd works his tailbone off for that tournament,” the sports director said. “It is part of the fabric of the community now. If you ask the women of the LPGA, Judd Silverman is the Jamie Farr tournament.”
But Silverman said his passion for golf extends beyond the Jamie Farr. He directed May’s NCAA tournament at Toledo’s Inverness Club, and will work there again, when he helms the July 2011 U. S. Senior Open. Inverness hires Silverman’s company, Toledo Classic Inc., for each event, he said.
Silverman said his staff maintains 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. hours most weeks prior to an event. During the Jamie Farr, his staff works from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.
At 53 years old, Silverman said he has no idea how long the classic will continue or how he would react if it were gone. He said his wife Lisa always enjoys each tournament, alongside the couple’s sons, 16-year-old Reed and 13-year-old Ben.
White said Silverman enjoys helping Toledo.
“Judd pulls this together,” White said. “He has been doing this for 25 years and he is always looking forward to next year.”

I decided I wanted to go to Africa when I was on the back of my husband’s Harley last summer.
It was the least likely time to be brainstorming, but the road trip to Washington, D.C., was putting me to sleep and I wanted to perk myself up with thoughts of possible projects.
My mind kept going to the Toledo International Youth Orchestra (TIYO). I had written about the group’s trip to sister cities in Germany and Poland earlier that year and knew about its upcoming trip to Africa.
At one point during that interview, someone said, “Why don’t you come?”
I smiled politely. I didn’t start reporting yesterday; I knew this was just the cordial thing to say.  But a few months later, with the wind in my hair, I thought, “I am going.”
The decision to travel to Toledo’s sister city, Tanga, Tanzania, ended up being easy. Getting ready for Africa has not.
I leave June 28, but my journey began in September, from the immunizations required for this sub-Saharan region, to my lost passport to all the “concerns” about traveling. When I tell people that I am going to Africa, their first reaction is awe followed by trepidation.
What about war? AIDS? Food? I asked myself these same questions. But I learned rather quickly that Tanzania has had a history of peace; AIDS is rampant, but nothing that can be contracted through casual contact; and food … well, I might come back a few pounds lighter. We cannot eat anything that isn’t cooked. If we have fruit, it has to bear a thick skin; a banana would be OK; grapes would not. The orchestra has hired Tanzania’s equivalent of a “chef” to travel with us. This person will make sure our food is properly cooked and that our bottled water hasn’t been filled with local water, a common practice in Tanzania.
Viewing this type of poverty firsthand is one of my fears. How will I capture it in writing? Will the natives I interview consider themselves impoverished? Will my voice not be sympathetic enough? I am actually still considering if I should wear my wedding rings; I don’t want to be showy.
But those who have gone before me report that the natives are a people full of hope. They think all Americans are rich like LeBron James and live in Beverly Hills 90210. They consider President Barack Obama their idol and receiving something as simple as a 2008 campaign button would be a reason to celebrate. I am bringing a few of them on behalf of my neighbor who worked on his campaign.
I also worry about the language barrier. Those in Tanga speak Swahili and some English. Early on, I talked with a group of people from Tanzania who were visiting Maumee, and while they were hard to understand, I captured the essence of what they were saying.
And what they were saying was eye-opening. They love Americans and are excited to share their country with us.
I plan to send blogs about the trip to www.toledofreepress.com. This might not happen every day as the Internet is apparently unreliable.
Ultimately, TIYO and I are trying to bring a little bit of American culture to the people of Tanga, and I hope I can bring some of their culture back to us.

Brandi Barhite is Toledo Free Press Special Sections Editor.