Subject to change

MOSTLY FOR ADULTS
Parents should determine appropriateness for children

Wildwood Manor House tours: “Built in the 1930s in the Georgian Colonial style, this home was the family estate of Robert A. Stranahan, co-founder of Champion Spark Plug Co., and his wife, Page.” Tours at quarter after and quarter till the hour noon-5 p.m. Wednesdays-Sundays through November, Wildwood Preserve Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. (419) 535-3056.

Wolcott House tours: Visitors will get an intimate (ahem) look at what went under the outer layer in the “Corsets to Camisoles: Fashions of the Flaming 1920s” exhibit. 12:30 and 2:30 p.m. Thursdays-Sundays through Nov. 1. 1031 River Road, Maumee. $2.50-$5. (419) 893-9602.

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.

Toledo Farmers’ Market: Find it fresh and local at this outdoor station, which has been around for 177 years. Upcoming events include canning classes, Aug. 1; Jazz Brunch, Aug. 8; and Tomato Time, Aug. 15. 9 a.m.-noon Saturdays through Aug. 31, Toledo Farmers’ Market, 525 Market St. Satellite locations: 3-7 p.m. Tuesdays, Shops at Fallen Timbers, 3100 Main St., Maumee; and 3-7 p.m. Wednesdays at Westgate on Secor Road (by Elder-Beerman). (419) 255-6765 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.
> Murder Mystery Cruise: A peaceful river cruise turns deadly, and police are called to investigate murders on the Maumee in this production from Random Acts. Try to solve the case during a two-hour trip, including a pasta buffet dinner. 7 p.m. Aug. 5 and 26 and Sept. 16; $39.
> Lighthouse Cruises: 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 the historic Turtle Island Lighthouse. Picnics welcome. 12:30 p.m. Aug. 16; $15-$35.

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.
> Aug. 1 and 15: Hoozier Daddy.
> Aug. 8: Whiskey Dunn.

Blood drives: The Western Lake Erie Region of the American Red Cross will hold several drives this month. Starred (*) locations suggest calling for appointments. For more information or opportunities to donate, call (800) 448-3543 or visit www.givebloodtoday.org.
> 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Aug. 1, First Christian Church, 5271 Alexis Road, Sylvania.
> 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Aug. 1, Friendship Baptist Church, 5301 Nebraska Ave.
> 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Aug. 1, Dave White Chevrolet, 5880 Monroe St., Sylvania.
> Noon-6 Aug. 3, Community Market, Oak Harbor Veterans of Foreign Wars post, 251 W. Main St., Oak Harbor.
> Noon-6 Aug. 4, Delta Church of Christ, 500 Providence St., Delta.
> 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Aug. 6, Flower Hospital, 5200 Harroun Road, Sylvania.
> 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Aug. 8, First Christian Church, 375 Haskins Road, Bowling Green.
> 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Aug. 8, United Methodist Church of St. Andrew, 3620 Heatherdowns Blvd.
> 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Aug. 10, Toledo Hospital, 2142 N. Cove Blvd.
> Noon-6 Aug. 12, St. Patrick of Heatherdowns, 4201 Heatherdowns Blvd.
> 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Aug. 13, Oregon Municipal Building, 5330 Seaman Road, Oregon.*
> 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Aug. 14, Midland Title Agency and the Toledo Board of Realtors at the Home Builders Association, 1911 Indian Wood Circle, Maumee.
> 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Aug. 14, Maumee Branch Library, 501 River Road, Maumee.
> 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Aug. 15, the Andersons, 3725 Williston Road, Northwood.
> 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Aug. 15, Church of the Nazarene, 205 W. Fourth St., Port Clinton.*

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 through Sept. 17, rain or shine. (419) 530-3591 or uac@utoledo.edu.
> View From Levis Square: Aug. 6, at the “Kubuki Dancer” sculpture.
> It’s All Greek to Me: Aug. 13, North Superior and Walnut streets.

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.
> Aug. 7: Whiskey Dunn.
> Aug. 14: Hoozier Daddy.

GED preparation class orientation session: Area residents can enhance basic skills in English or math or improve employment skills. 11 a.m. Aug. 1 (the first Saturday of each month), Owens Community College, Workforce and Community Services Room 167, 30335 Oregon Road, Perrysburg. Subsequent classes are 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays. Information: (567) 661-2708 or (800) 466-9367, ext. 2708.

Helping Hands: Aid naturalists and land management staff in restoring natural areas to preserve rare and endangered plants. 9-11 a.m. Aug. 1, Buehner Center porch, Oak Openings Preserve Metropark, 4139 Girdham Road off Route 2, Swanton. Reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

Garden Helping Hands: Gardeners and wannabe gardeners can the Friends group help maintain the parks’ plots. 9-10 a.m. Aug. 1, Side Cut Metropark’s Lamb Center, 1025 River Road, Maumee. Reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

Dillon House Victorian Teas: One of Fremont’s finest examples of Victorian-era architecture is the setting for a formal event that features all the fineries of a 19th-century tea, including entertainment and presentations. 1-3 p.m. Aug. 5, Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center, Buckland Avenue, Fremont. $12-$20. Reservations required: (419) 332-2081, ext. 38, or (800) 998-7737.

Coffee and Connecting: Network in the early hours while surrounded by the natural beauty of the Toledo Botanical Garden. Sponsored by the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce. 8-9:30 a.m. Aug. 5, 5403 Elmer Dr. (419) 243-8191.

Yoga for Everyone: Explore the physical and mental benefits of yoga, which can help anyone, no matter their age or physical state. 7-8:30 p.m. Aug. 5, 12 and 19, Sanger Branch Library, 3030 W. Central Ave. Registration: (419) 259-5295.

Guided Evening Garden Tour: Visitors can learn about the garden’s history and get information about the 17-acre garden estate’s trees and flora. 6:30 p.m. Aug. 6, Schedel Arboretum and Gardens, 19255 Portage River Road, Elmore. $12. Reservations: (419) 862-3182.

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. 4-7 p.m. Aug. 6 and 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Aug. 7-8, Friends of the Library Book Center, Reynolds Corners Shopping Center, Reynolds Road and Dorr Street. (419) 259-5207.

Tea in the Solarium: Delicious sandwiches and desserts served in an elegant manner. Noon-3 Aug. 7, Wildwood Preserve Metropark’s Manor House, 5100 W. Central Ave. $7. Prepaid reservations available, but not required: (419) 508 0951.

Wine Tastings: Lovers of the vine’s fruit can try varietals based on the evening’s theme. 7-9:30 p.m. Aug. 7, 14 and 21, TMA’s Glass Pavilion, 2445 Monroe St. $20. (419) 255-8000.

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. Aug. 8, Blue Creek Conservation Area, white barn, 7790 Schadel Rd., Whitehouse.

Yoga in the Garden: Inspire your practice with the serenity of nature. 6-7:15 p.m. Mondays, Aug. 10-Sept. 28, Toledo Botanical Garden, 5403 Elmer Dr. $85. (419) 536-5566.

Organic Herb Gardening: Master Gardener Vicki Gallagher will “share the benefits of organic gardening, how-to information, and herbs from around the world.” 6:30 p.m. Aug. 11, Schedel Arboretum and Gardens, 19255 Portage River Road, Elmore. $12. Reservations: (419) 862-3182.

Yoga on the Roof: Hour-long programs with Glass City “skyline views” for everyone from namaste newbies to practiced yogis. 7 p.m. Aug. 12 and 19, Civic Plaza rooftop, Toledo Lucas County Main Library, 325 Michigan St. Registration: (419) 259-5209.

Metroparks Seniors: Roy G. Biv. Observe the colors of the rainbow in the region’s flora and fauna. For those 60 and older. 2-3:30 p.m. Aug. 12, Secor Room, Secor Metropark, 10000 W. Central Ave., Berkey. $2. Reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

Rug Hooking Exhibition: One of the best exhibits of traditional hooked rugs in the country, featuring teacher Diane Phillips, demonstrations, workshops and vendors. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Aug. 12-15, Sauder Village, 22611 Route 2, Archbold. $6.50-$12.50; show only, $8.50. (800) 590-9755.

Meet Your Neighbor from China: Local Chinese Americans will share their country’s history, customs, culture and foods. 2-4 p.m. Aug. 15, Sylvania Branch Library, 6749 Monroe St., Sylvania. Registration: (419) 882-2089.

ART & EXHIBITIONS
The Bead Goes On: The TMA hopes to collect 10,000 hand-made beads made by the public in a various media to create a curtain to be displayed at the museum. Entries will be accepted through October, 2010. 2445 Monroe St. (419) 255-8000 or toledomuseum.org/PDF/BGOProspectus.pdf.

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.
> “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.
> 91st annual Toledo Area Artists: This yearly celebration of the region’s artistic ability consistently draws the unique, the innovative and the eclectic. Through Aug. 23, Canaday Gallery.
> “Monkey Business”: “On this 150th anniversary year of Charles Darwin’s ‘On the Origin of Species,’ this exhibit explores simian symbolism through the ages.” Through Aug. 30, Gallery 18.
> “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.

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.
> “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. Through Jan. 3.

“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.

“Once Amish”: Artist Greg Kempf will present a retrospective of his paintings, woodcuts and lithographs. 7-10 p.m. daily through Aug. 21, Collingwood Arts Center, 2413 Collingwood Blvd. (419) 244-2787.

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 through Aug. 21, in the Sculpture Garden, 2445 Monroe St. (419) 255-8000.

Salone de Refuse: This exhibition features artworks not accepted for participation in the Toledo Area Artists exhibition at the TMA. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, through Aug. 23, Collingwood Arts Center, 2413 Collingwood Blvd. (419) 244-2787.

“Between the Cracks: A Tale of Two Cities.” This exhibit by artists Michelangelo Lovelace and Tina Gionis compares and contrasts Cleveland and Taipei, Taiwan, respectively. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays and noon-4 Saturdays through Sept. 5. Space 237, 237 N. Michigan St. (419) 255-5117.

“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.

“Secret Landscapes”: Watercolors and collages by Claire Wilson will be on display. 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays, through Sept. 8, UT’s Catherine S. Eberly Center for Women, Tucker Hall Room 168, 2801 W. Bancroft St., off Campus Road. (419) 530-8570.

“Review/Preview”: Work by “local, regional and international artists who have been the core” of the gallery for 17 years and a preview the upcoming season will be in a monthly rotation. Noon-4 Thursdays-Fridays and 1-5 p.m. Saturdays through Oct. 10, 20 North Gallery, 18 N. St. Clair St. (419) 241-2400.

“Wild Wetlands”: “A close-up photographic journey into shallow waters” by photographer David Fitzsimmons. Noon-5 p.m. weekends; 6:30-7:30 p.m. second Friday of each month; and during special events; National Center for Nature Photography, Secor Metropark, 10000 W. Central Ave., Berkey. (419) 407-9757.

Greater Cincinnati Photography Clubs’ Nature Images: Curated by photographer Jerry Fritsch. Noon-5 p.m. weekends; 6:30-7:30 p.m. second Friday of each month; and during special events; National Center for Nature Photography, Secor Metropark, 10000 W. Central Ave., Berkey. (419) 407-9757.

“The Wondrous Variety of Our Oak Openings”: With its variety of habitats, including wet sand prairies, sand barrens, and oak savannas, the region offers plants and animals only found here. Take a peek at some, represented in photographs. Noon-5 p.m. weekends; 6:30-7:30 p.m. second Friday of each month; and during special events; National Center for Nature Photography, Secor Metropark, 10000 W. Central Ave., Berkey. (419) 407-9757.

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 class: (419) 254-5771, ext. 7448.
> Hot glass flowers: 6, 7 and 8 p.m. Fridays through Aug. 28, and 2 and 4 p.m. Aug. 1, 8 and 15.
> Flame-worked marble: 6 and 7 p.m. Aug. 7.
> Flame-worked swizzle stick: 6 and 7 p.m. Aug. 14.

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.
> Toledo Treasures, 2 and 3 p.m. Aug. 1; 1, 2, 3 and 4 p.m. Aug. 2.
> Dresses, Vessels and Other Glass Tales, 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. Aug. 7.
> Sculpture Garden, 2 and 3 p.m. Aug. 8; 1, 2, 3 and 4 p.m. Aug. 9.
> On the Edge: Modern & Contemporary Art. 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. Aug. 14; 2 and 3 p.m. Aug. 15.
> The Classical Tradition, 1, 2, 3 and 4 p.m. Aug. 16.

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.
> Aug. 7: Judy Kensley McKie’s “Polar Bear Bench.”
> Aug. 14: Hector Guimard’s “Paris Metro Entrance.”

New Insights on Old Favorites: TMA curators and other museum staff discuss related works of art during strolls through the galleries. 7 p.m. Fridays through Aug. 28, from Libbey Court, 2445 Monroe St. (419) 255-8000.

Arts in the Garden: Inner artists will spring forth, courtesy of demonstrations, activities, performances and more. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Aug. 2, Toledo Botanical Garden, 5403 Elmer Dr. (419) 536-5566.

Summer Harvest Dance: Northwest Ohio Traditional Music and Dance will bring a painting to life, with the help of the audience. Featuring live music on traditional instruments, this event will share simple contra-style dance steps. 7-9:30 p.m. Aug. 7, TMA’s Great Gallery, 2445 Monroe St. (419) 255-8000.

Local glass artists: Joel O’Dorisio. Workers in silicon-based media will be spotlighted. 7-10 p.m. Aug. 14, TMA, 2445 Monroe St. (419) 255-8000.

“Southwestern Views”: Jack Lykes will be the speaker at this month’s Naturalists’ Camera Club of Toledo public program. 6:30-9:30 p.m. Aug. 14 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.
> Monkeying Around: Visitors will “experiment with an art technique made famous by M.C. Escher.” 2-4 p.m. Aug. 16, Libbey Court.

Oak Openings Photo Primer: The Tallgrass Prairie. Learn about “the unique and beautiful plants and animals” of this habitat. 6:30-9 p.m. Aug. 17, Buehner Center porch, Oak Openings Preserve Metropark, 4139 Girdham Road off Route 2, Swanton. (419) 826-6463. $15. Reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

FAIRS & FESTIVALS
Smoke on the Water: Ribs for the Red Cross. Bibs? Check. Wet Naps? Check? Appetite? You better bring it when local and national vendors dish up some of the most mouth-watering ribs in the area. Presidents of the United States of America will perform Aug. 1; Chuck Wicks will sing Aug. 2. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. through Aug. 1 and 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Aug. 2, Promenade Park, Water Street. $3. (419) 329-2619 or www.ribs4redcross.com.

Seneca County Fair: In addition to the usual livestock exhibits, there will be arts and crafts, antique farm machinery, harness racing, a demolition derby, rodeo, tractor pull and rides, and more. 8 a.m.-11 p.m. through Aug. 2, Seneca County Fairgrounds, 100 Hopewell Ave., Tiffin. $6. (419) 447-7888.

Ohio State Fair: Parachutists, a (spelling) bee and bears may sound like a recipe for disaster, but they are part of the entertainment at this fair, along with animals, roving entertainers, rides and more. Performers include Alice Cooper/Blue Oyster Cult (Aug. 1, $22); Kenny Rogers/Glen Campbell (Aug. 4, $28); Demi Lovato (Aug. 6, $23); and Rascal Flatts/Dierks Bentley/Darius Rucker (Aug. 9, $30-$75). 10 a.m. through Aug. 9, Ohio Expo Center, 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus. $8-$10; $5 parking. (888) 646-3976 or www.ohiostatefair.com.

Lucas County Fair: Eddie Money and Midnight Special will perform at 7 p.m. July 30; $10-$15. Other highlights include draft horse pulls, lawnmower races, a demolition derby and rough truck challenge a Boer goat and border collie shows, chainsaw woodcarving, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Aug. 1 and 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Aug. 2, Lucas County Fairgrounds, 1406 Key St., Maumee. $6; $3 parking. (419) 893-2127 or www.lucascountyfair.com.

Monroe County Fair: Jason Aldean will hit the stage (Aug. 3; $25). Other festivities include a demolition derby, dog demonstrations, a VIP goat milking contest (the milkers, not the goats, are the VIPs) and a rodeo. 9 a.m. Aug. 2-8, 3775 S. Custer Road, Monroe, Mich. $2-$5. (734) 241-5775, (734) 241-2600 or www.monroecountyfair.com.

Medina County Fair: Montgomery Gentry is the draw at this fair’s grandstand (Aug. 8; $27-$32). Others might like the “Rock’n Rodeo,” demolition derbies, harness and motorbike racing and tractor pulls. And don’t forget the arm wrestling contest … 8 a.m. Aug. 3-9, 710 W. Smith Road, Medina. $2-$5. (330) 723-9633 or www.medina-fair.com.

Wood County Fair: The catch-a-pig contest may not be the highlight @@ that would be Little Big Town’s performance on Aug. 8 ($25) @@ but it’s one of the other grandstand events. Aug. 4-10, Wood County Fairgrounds, 13800 W. Poe Road, Bowling Green. $6. (419) 352-0441 or www.woodcounty-fair.com.

Northwest Ohio Rib-Off: It’s Ribs 2009, part deux, at this 26th annual barbecue competition, which offers “a taste of pure hog-heaven prepared by the best local and national grill masters.” 3-10 p.m. Aug. 6, 3-11 p.m. Aug. 7, noon-11 Aug. 8 and noon-6 Aug. 9, Lucas County Fairgrounds, 1406 Key St., Maumee.

Ohio South of the Border Festival: Fiesta animals will enjoy the food, music and atmosphere. Aug. 7-8, Perrysburg Heights Community Park, 12332 Jefferson St., Perrysburg. (419) 874-4529.

Arts Gone Wild: Local cultural organizations, including Toledo’s symphony, libraries, ballet, parks, museum, theater and zoo, celebrate the city’s artistic instincts with live performances, demonstrations, activities and more. For more information, visit 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Aug. 7-8, Toledo Botanical Garden, 5403 Elmer Dr. www.artsgonewild.org.

Monclova Homecoming SummerFest: Performances are slated by Sinjon Smith of Detroit, MasFina, Glass City Steel Drums and Afro-Caribbean Dance & Drum group. Other activities include a canoe race, inflatable rides, a petting zoo, art show, silent auction and “hometown flair” contests (jams, pies, quilts, etc.). 4-11 p.m. Aug. 7 and 9 a.m.-11 p.m. Aug. 8, Monclova Community Center, 8115 Monclova Rd., Monclova. (419) 861-1336.

Christ the King Festival: Games, rides, bands, bingo and the prerequisite chicken dinner are planned. 5 p.m.-midnight Aug. 7-8, 1-8 p.m. Aug. 9, Christ the King Catholic Church, 4100 Harvest Lane. (419) 475-4348 or www.cktoledo.org.

Regina Coeli Festival: Games for kids and adults are planned, along with music by 56 Daze, Skoobie Snaks and Touch of Brass. 5 p.m.-midnight Aug. 7, 1 p.m.-midnight Aug. 8 and noon-7 Aug. 9, 530 Regina Pkwy. (419) 476-0922 or www.regina-coeli.org.

Frogtown Fair: Visitors can recycle old household batteries, fluorescent bulbs, mercury thermometers, old and broken electronics; check out energy-saving ideas, such a rain barrels, and exhibits by “green” organizations; and have confidential papers destroyed. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Aug. 8, Erie Street Market, 237 S. Erie St. (419) 936-3947 or Chad.Gogley@epa.state.oh.us.

River Raisin Jazz Festival: This event regularly draws thousands of music lovers to the banks of the Raisin for smooth sounds and upbeat tempos. This year’s performers include Russ Freeman and the Rippingtons (Aug. 8), Jeff Lorber, Maysa, the Motor City Horns and festival artistic director Alexander Zonjic (Aug. 9). In addition, an art fair is held at nearby Loranger Square, Washington and First streets. Noon-9 Aug. 8-9, St. Mary’s Park, 195 W. Elm Ave., Monroe, Mich. (734) 457-1095 or www.monroeinfo.com.

Back to School Fair: Speak with local organizations and schools in preparation of the first day. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Aug. 8, Westfield Franklin Park, 5001 Monroe St. (419) 473-3317 or www.westfield.com/franklinpark.

God of Our City Celebration: “Praise and worship Jesus Christ declaring the good things about Him, who He is and what He is doing for a greater Toledo.” Aug. 8, Promenade Park, Water Street. (419) 245-1607.

Erie County Fair: Fair staple Phil Dirt & the Dozers will make their appearance; DeWayne Spaw and Coco Beanos also will perform. Tractor pulls, chainsaw carving and a demolition derby also will take place. 8 a.m. Aug. 11-16, 3110 Columbus Ave., Sandusky. $7. (419) 625-1000 or www.eriecountyohiofair.com.

Attica Independent Fair: Featured events  will include livestock shows, pig scrambles, Friday night rodeo, horse races, concerts and a derby. 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Aug. 12-16, Attica Fairgrounds, 100 Fairgrounds Road, Attica. $7. (419) 426-3247.

Maumee Summer Fair and Taste of Maumee: Twenty area restaurants will kick off the event, dishing up their most tantalizing recipes. Bands will perform both days. Then the fair gets in gear on Saturday, featuring a parade, kids’ activities, arts and crafts and a classic car show. 5 to 11 p.m. Aug. 14 and 9 a.m.-11 p.m. Aug. 15, West Dudley and Allen streets, Maumee. A lot party, for those 21 or older, is $5. (419) 893-5805.

Lenawee County Fair: Visitors can meet the elephants and hear Julianne Hough at this fair, which also includes tractor pulls, laser tag, rides and a comedy hypnotist show. Aug. 14-20, 602 N. Dean St., Adrian, Mich. $1-$5. (517) 263-3007 or www.lenfair.com.

Henry County Fair: Don’t miss the Tomato Festival Parade, with all the past Tomato Queens! Or you could go for the demolition derby, tractor pull or performances by Phil Dirt & the Dozers or the Lost Trailers. 7 a.m. Aug. 14-20, Henry County Fairgrounds, 907 S. Perry St., Napoleon. $6. (419) 592-9096 or www.henrycountyfair.org.

Barefoot at the Beach: “Great food, music, and entertainment await guests on the shores of Lake Erie.” Proceeds will support Boys & Girls Clubs of Toledo. 6-11 p.m. Aug. 15, Maumee Bay State Park, 1400 State Park Rd. 1, Oregon. (419) 241-4258 or www.barefootatthebeach.org.

35th Annual Birmingham Ethnic Festival: Celebrates the community’s ethnic heritage with Hungarian and ethnic foods, arts and crafts exhibits, cultural displays and music, dance and continuous entertainment. Noon-9 Aug. 16, Consaul Street between Front and Milford streets. (419) 244-3888 or www.birminghamethnicfestival.org.

Huron County Fair: Like big burly guys with axes? Unless you’re a Michael Myers fan, you’ll probably appreciate the lumberjack shows held all week at this fair. All-terrain vehicle and motorcross races are planned, along with an Aug. 17 performance by Craig Morgan ($12-$20). 8 a.m. Aug. 17-22, 940 Fair Road, Norwalk. $7. (419) 668-0516 or www.huroncountyfair.com.

FAMILY TIME
Backpack to the Future: New or gently used book bags and school supplies are sought to help low-income elementary-school children in northwest Ohio. Through Aug. 18, Owens Community College office of alumni relations, 30335 Oregon Road, Perrysburg; Owens’ enrollment services office, 3200 Bright Road, Findlay; Great Lakes Credit Union branches, 5823 Monroe St., Sylvania, and 624 W. South Boundary and Owens-Illinois Plaza, 1890 N. Wilkenson Way, both in Perrysburg; Books-A-Million, Town Center at Levis Commons, 3201 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg. (567) 661-7876 or www.owens.edu/alumni/backpack.html.

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. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesdays-Fridays and noon-4 p.m. weekends through August, Kimble’s Landing, Providence Metropark, 13827 U.S. Route 24 West (at Route 578), Grand Rapids. Boat tickets: $4-$6.

Butterfly House: The home to hundreds of flittery, fluttery creatures that capture hearts and imaginations is open. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays and noon-5 Sundays, 11455 Obee Road, Whitehouse. $4.50-$6. (419) 877-2733.

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, Fort Meigs. $4-$8.

Side Cut Explorer: A 12-passenger, wheelchair-accessible tram ride along the Maumee River and canal towpath. 10 and 11:15 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Tuesdays, through October, Side Cut Metropark, Riverview parking lot, 1025 River Road, Maumee. $2. Reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

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.

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.

Got Books? Holland Branch Library will sponsor a digital photo contest. Entrants should capture someone reading or being read to and e-mailing the photos to the library. Entries will be displayed at the library. Prizes are possible! Through Sept. 5, 1032 S. McCord Road, Holland. (419) 259-5240.

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.

Express your exploratory side: Teens have a chance to win in a scavenger hunt at Holland Branch Library. 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Aug. 1, 1032 S. McCord Road, Holland. (419) 259-5240.

Creative Authors: Know your authors? Teens could win if they can prove they do. 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Aug. 1, South Branch Library, 1736 Broadway. (419) 259-5395.

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. 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Aug. 1, 203 Paine Ave. (419) 259-5210.

Creative Dead Guys: Match the dearly departed men with their creative works. 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Aug.1, West Toledo Branch Library, 1320 Sylvania Ave. (419) 259-5290.

Backpack Giveaway: Kids in fifth grade and younger can earn chances to win this contest. 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Aug. 1, Birmingham Branch Library, 203 Paine Ave. (419) 259-5210.

LEGO Championship: A number of branches will hold preliminary contests; the winners in grades three-five will face off in a 30-minute “things that take you places” challenge. 10 a.m. Aug. 1, Huntington Meeting Room, Toledo Lucas County Main Library, 325 Michigan St. (419) 259-5207.

Into the Garden: Kids can learn about the manor house’s formal garden and the female landscape architect who created it. Visitors also will decorate flower pots to take home. 10-11 a.m. Aug. 1, Wildwood Preserve Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. $5. Reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

Lil’ Timbers Kids Klub: Activities, crafts and games are planned. 1 p.m. Aug. 1 and Sept. 5, Shops at Fallen Timbers, 3100 Main St., Maumee. Detailed locations to be posted at www.theshopsatfallentimbers.com.

Doll & Teddy Bear Show & Sale: Fans and collectors can peruse antiques, accessories, supplies, books and patterns. Workshops, lectures and activities are planned. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Aug. 1 and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Aug. 2, Sauder Village, 22611 Route 2, Archbold. $6.50-$12.50; doll show only, $7. (800) 590-9755.

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.
> Make Recyclable Art, Aug. 2, 4 and 6.
> Make a Sunny Day Print, Aug. 9, 11 and 13.
> Create Chihuly-Inspired Art, Aug. 16, 18 and 20.

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.
> Estate tours: Explore the horse stables, pool cabanas and limousine garage at the former Stranahan estate. Until 6:30 p.m. Aug. 2.
> Butterflies in Your Backyard: Learn to recognize these captivating creatures, then take a walk to observe even more. Aug. 9.
> Geocache Adventure: 9- to 12-year-olds will use global positioning systems to search for hidden treasure and solve clues with the help of a park naturalist. Aug. 16.

Fun Time: A carnival will be held to conclude the summer reading club. 7 p.m. Aug. 3, Maumee Branch Library, 501 River Road, Maumee. Registration: (419) 259-5360.

Toddler Trails: Children 18 months to 3 years old and their adults can go on outdoor nature adventures. 10-11 a.m. Aug. 5, Metz Visitor Center, Wildwood Preserve Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. $3. Reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

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

Aesop’s Fables: Madcap Puppets will re-create the stories of “The Boy Who Cried Wolf,” “The Lion and the Mouse” and “The Hare and the Tortoise.” 7 p.m. Aug. 6, Maumee Branch Library, 501 River Road, Maumee. (419) 259-5360.

“Once Upon a Clock”: Two kids attempt to unlock the secrets of their uncle’s mysterious clock shop. A Madcap Puppets presentation.
> 10-11 a.m. Aug. 6, Kent Branch Library, 3101 Collingwood Blvd. (419) 259-5283.
> 2 p.m. Aug. 6, Toledo Lucas County Main Library, 325 Michigan St. (419) 259-5207.
> 7 p.m. Aug. 6, Maumee Branch Library, 501 River Road, Maumee. (419) 259-5360.

Adopt-an-Acre tours: Potential volunteers are invited on a tour of adopted areas to see what’s being accomplished in restoring and maintaining healthy wildlife habitats. 6-8 p.m. Aug. 6 and 15, Mallard Lake, Oak Openings Preserve Metropark, 4139 Girdham Road off Route 2, Swanton. (419) 826-6463. Reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

Rib Off: Mouthwatering ribs mix with live entertainment. 6 p.m.-midnight Aug. 7, 300 block of Main Street, downtown Findlay. $2-$5. (419) 422-4624 or www.artspartnership.com.

“The Dawn of Astronomy”: This program looks at early man’s achievement in “measuring the length of the year and predicting how the sun and the moon move in the sky.” 8:30 p.m. Aug. 7, 14, 21, 28, UT’s Ritter Planetarium, 2801 W. Bancroft St. $5-$6. (419) 530-4037 or (419) 530-2650.

First Fridays: Music, carriage rides and art exhibits will enliven downtown Perrysburg. 5-8 p.m. Aug. 7 and Sept. 4, Louisiana Avenue. (419) 872-6246 or www.downtownperrysburg.org.

Wee Workshop: Rivers and Rocks. Children 3-5 and their adult companions will explore the stones to find creatures living in the Maumee River. Water shoes recommended. 10-11:30 a.m. Aug. 8, Farnsworth Metropark, Roche de Bout parking lot, 8505 S. River Road (Route 24), Waterville. $5. Reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

Drawing Together: Parents and their kids can investigate the prints and drawings in the galleries and discover how to create their own works of art at this family camp. 1-3 p.m. Aug. 8, TMA, 2445 Monroe St. $25 for parent-child pairs; additional children are $5. Reservations: (419) 254-5080.

Mutt Strut: Walkers, with and without pooches (those without accompaniment may “borrow” a shelter dog), will raise money for the Wood County Humane Society’s shelter. Raffles, games and contests will include a beauty “pawgeant.” 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Aug. 8, Fort Meigs, 29100 W. River Road, Perrysburg. (419) 378-1178 or www.WoodCountyHumaneSociety.com.

Parking Lot Party: Admission, benefiting the Danberry Treasure Chest that helps local families during the illness of a child, includes lunch. Music and games for adults and children are planned. 4-10 p.m. Aug. 8, Danberry Realtors, 7010 Lewis Ave., Temperance, Mich. $5. (734) 847-6702.

Ohio Revolutionary War Encampment: Learn what life was like for soldiers, civilians, Native Americans in the 18th century. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Aug. 8, and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Aug. 9, Wood County Historical Center & Museum, 13360 County Home Road, Bowling Green. (419) 352-0967 or www.woodcountyhistory.org.

Tallgrass Prairie Tour: “The Wondrous Variety of Our Oak Openings.” A naturalist will discuss exhibited photographs, then lead a walk to see the real thing. 2-4 p.m. Aug. 9, National Center for Nature Photography, Secor Metropark, 10000 W. Central Ave., Berkey. $5. Reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

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. Aug. 9, 7790 Schadel Rd., Whitehouse. (419) 877-0060 or www.natures-nursery.org.

Butterflies, Moths and Caterpillars: Discover how to recognize the captivating creatures that visit our backyards, learn how to invite them and take a walk to observe more. 1:30-3 p.m. Aug. 9, Metroparks Hall, Wildwood Preserve Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. (419) 535-3056.

Children’s Teas: Kids can get a dose of history with the spoonfuls of sugar in their drinks; includes entertainment, such as storyteller Barb Sutton. 1-3 p.m. Aug. 12, Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center, Buckland Avenue, Fremont. $12-$20. Reservations required: (419) 332-2081, ext. 38, or (800) 998-7737.

Wood County Historical Center & Museum tea: Herb Brunch. Discover how herbs solved everyday problems in the late 18th and 19th centuries. Infirmary and garden tour to follow. 10 a.m. Aug. 13, 13360 County Home Road, Bowling Green. $3-$12. Reservations: (419) 352-0967 or www.woodcountyhistory.org.

Kernal of Truth: “See the power of corn in action” through baking, crafts and demonstrations and take home some freshly ground meal. 1-4 p.m. Aug. 14 Kimble’s Landing, Providence Metropark, 13827 US 24 West (at SR 578), Grand Rapids.

Side Cut Cicada Open: Teams of four will watch trees, monitoring the progress of cicadas; the team with the first cicada to cross the finish line will be declared the winner. 9 p.m. Aug. 14-7 a.m. Aug. 15, Side Cut Metropark, Riverview parking lot, 1025 River Road, Maumee. $40 a team. Call for details and reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

Back to School Fashion Show: Fashions from a variety of different retailers will be on display. Aug. 15, Westfield Franklin Park, 5001 Monroe St. (419) 473-3317 or www.westfield.com/franklinpark.

Horse-drawn carriage rides: Tour President Rutherford B. Hayes’ estate the way he would have. 1-5 p.m Aug. 15, Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center, Spiegel Grove, Hayes and Buckland avenues, Fremont. $3. (419) 332-2081, (800) 998-7737 or www.rbhayes.org.

Parking Lot Swap: The community will be moving its garage sales to the parking lot for this swap meet. Also featured will be the library’s Back-to-School Clothing Exchange and book sale. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Aug. 15, Bedford Branch Library, 8575 Jackman Road, Temperance, Mich. (734) 847-6747.

The Scoop at Grandma’s: Kids and their adults can walk through the same rooms the Stranahan grandkids did, and then make and eat ice cream. 10-11 a.m. Aug. 15, Wildwood Preserve Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. $5. Reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

Kids Klothing Exchange: Parents can donate gently used clothing for kids, sizes newborn to 16, then replenish the closets with items that fit. Drop-off noon-4 Aug. 15; shop noon-4 Aug. 22, Epiphany Lutheran Church, 915 N. Reynolds Road. (419) 467-2240.

Farnsworth Exploration: Wander along the beautiful Maumee River and learn about the Bowling Green fault, Native American history and how the river got its name. 4-5 p.m. Aug. 16, Farnsworth Metropark, Roche de Bout parking lot, 8505 S. River Road (US 24), Waterville.

YouTube Viewing Party: Young adults can submit links to favorite online videos @@ in categories such as humorous, scary, sad, musical and animated @@ via wayteens@gmail.com for consideration to be shown the party. 6:30-8 p.m. Aug. 18, Way Public Library meeting rooms A and B, 101 E. Indiana Ave., Perrysburg. (419) 874-3135.

MOVIES
Summer Classic Film Series: Favorite movies from every genre are brought back to the big screen. Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty, Ann Arbor, Mich. (734) 764-2538.
> “The Searchers”: 1:30 p.m. Aug. 2 and 7 p.m. Aug. 4.
> “The Godfather”: 1:30 p.m. Aug. 9 and 7 p.m. Aug. 11.
> “A Hard Day’s Night”: 1:30 p.m. Aug. 16 and 7 p.m. Aug. 18.

Silver Screen Classics: Classic movies at classic prices. 1 p.m. Mondays, Showcase Cinemas Levis Commons, 2005 Hollenbeck Dr., Perrysburg. $2. (419) 891-5039.
> “Esther and the King,” Aug. 3.
> “The Last Time I Saw Paris,” Aug. 10.
> “Stork Club,” Aug. 17.

“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. 1:30 p.m. Aug. 5, Toledo Lucas County Main Library, 325 Michigan St. (419) 259-5207.

“The Magic Flute”: “Enter a magical world of dancing bears, giant birds and colorful adventure” in this abridged Mozart masterpiece. Sung in English, the production is an encore of the Metropolitan Opera simulcast performance. 7 p.m. Aug. 5, Maumee 18 Cinema De Lux, 1360 Conant St., Maumee. $15. (419) 891-5039.

“DCI 2009: Big, Loud & Live.” World-class percussionists will perform during the simulcast Drum Corps International World Championship Quarterfinals. 6:30 p.m. Aug. 6, Maumee 18: Cinema De Lux, 1360 Conant St., Maumee. $18. (419) 891-5039.

Attack of the B Movies: The “best of the worst horror movies ever made” will be shown in a double-feature series. 7 p.m. Thursdays through Aug. 27, Maumee 18 Cinema De Lux, 1360 Conant St., Maumee. $5. (419) 891-5039.
> “The Giant Gila Monster,” “The Wasp Woman,” Aug. 6.
> “Gorgo,” “Gammera the Invincible,” Aug. 13.

“Topper Returns”: This classic from 1941 features a ghost trying to find a living killer. 4:30 and 7 p.m. Aug. 9, Maumee Indoor Theater, 601 Conant St., Maumee. $5. (419) 897-8902.

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.
> Kentucky Chrome: Aug. 1.
> Jeff Stewart: Aug. 6.
> Empire Drift: Aug. 7.
> Freak Ender: Aug. 8.
> Rick Whited: Aug. 13.
> Two Dudes & a Chick: Aug. 14.
> Celtic Cross: Aug. 15.

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.
> See Alice: Aug. 1.
> Swamp Kings: Aug. 7.
> Dave Carpenter, Jaeglers: Aug. 8.
> Slump Busters: Aug. 14.
> Stone House: Aug. 15.

Fat Fish Blue: Serving blues and similar sounds, as well as bayou-style grub. Levis Commons, 6140 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg. (419) 931-3474.
> Big Blues Bob: 9:30 p.m. Aug. 1, $2.
> John Lee Hooker Jr.: 9 p.m. Aug. 6, $10.
> Curtis Jr. and Midnight Rockers with Bobby G.: 9:30 p.m. Aug. 7, $2.
> Tom Turner & Slow Burn: 9:30 p.m. Aug. 8, $2.
> Guitar Shorty with Bourbon Street: 9:30 p.m. Aug. 14, $2.
> Damon Fowler: 9:30 p.m. Aug. 15, $2.

Frankie’s: Toledo’s venue for rock. 308 Main St. (419) 693-5300 or www.FrankiesInnerCity.com.
> North, Adai: 9 p.m. Aug. 1, $5-$7.
> Katsumoto, Tonight Is Glory, the City Circles, Take December, the Sonic Dream, Last Stand of Faith: 5 p.m. Aug. 2, $8-$10.
> Dungen: 9 p.m. Aug. 6, $13-$15.
> The Red Scare, Unsinkable Molly Brown, the Fight Within, Come On, Frank & Earnest: 9 p.m. Aug. 7, $5-$7.
> Homeward Bound, Adams Dagger, Smash Divisions: 9 p.m. Aug. 8, $5-$7.
> Civet, Larry Love & the Revolvers, Ten Bars North: 9 p.m. Aug. 9, $8-$10.
> We Came as Romans, the Word Alive, Belle Epoque, the Sound of Glory, the Closure Rule, All Dreams Arrest: 7 p.m. Aug. 13, $8-$10.
> Red Wanting Blue, Resonant Soul: 9 p.m. Aug. 14, $8-$10.
> Dr. Manhattan, Truman and His Trophy, Lost at Sea: 5 p.m. Aug. 15, $8-$10.

Headliners: All ages, all genres are welcome. 4500 N. Detroit Ave. (419) 269-4500 or www.headlinerstoledo.com.
> Indoor Bike Nights: 6 p.m. Aug. 5, 12, 19, 26
> Mayday Parade, the Comeback, Teamnate, Always Falling: 6 p.m. Aug. 15, $12-$14.

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.
> Vytas & His Electric Outfit: Aug. 1.
> Chris Knopp: Aug. 7.
> Eric Brazier & the Truth: Aug. 8.
> Quartet Bernadette: 6 p.m. Aug. 12.
> Bluegrass Quartet: Aug. 14.
> Lisa Lynn of New Orleans: Aug. 15.
> Cynthia Kay Bennett: 6 p.m. Aug. 17.
> Toledo School for the Arts ensemble: 6 p.m. Aug. 18.

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.
> The Hard Lessons: Aug. 1.

Murphy’s Place: Jazz @@ straight, smooth, bebop or traditional @@ all kinds are played here. 151 Water St. (419) 241-7732 or www.murphysplacejazz.com.
> Ramona Collins: 9 p.m. Aug. 1, $6.
> Jeff Zavac: 9 and 11 p.m. Aug. 8.
> Mark Kieswetter and the Hometown Gang: 9 and 11 p.m. Aug. 14.

Ottawa Tavern: Casual meals with weekend entertainment. 1815 Adams St. (419) 725-5483 or www.otavern.com.
> Jeff Stewart & the 25s: Aug. 7.
> Stone House: Aug. 14.

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.

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. Thursdays through Aug. 20, Toledo Botanical Garden, 5403 Elmer Dr. $6-$7. (419) 241-5299 or (419) 536-5566.

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.

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

Centennial Terrace concerts: This venue provides unique acoustics (it might be because of the nearby quarry). 5773 Centennial Road, Sylvania. (419) 882-1500.
> Eddie & the Edsels: 7:30-midnight Aug. 1, $10. (440) 285-1705.
> Alice Cooper: 7 p.m. Aug. 2, $30-$55. (419) 474-1333.
> Johnny Knorr Orchestra: Music of the World War II Era. 7:30-11:30 p.m. Aug. 8. $10. (419) 690-0500 or www. johnnyknorr.com.

Summer concert series: Music lovers are invited to bring lawn chairs, blankets, friends and family for live tunes. 6-8 p.m. Saturdays through Aug. 29, Lake District amphitheater, Shops at Fallen Timbers, 3100 Main St., Maumee. (419) 878-6255 or www.theshopsatfallentimbers.com.
> Aug. 1: Johnny Rocker & the Hitmen.
> Aug. 8: The Viceroys.

Ottawa Park Summer Concerts: Families can bring lawnchairs or blankets to sit on the for a musical evening. 6-8 p.m., amphitheatre, Kenwood Boulevard, across from The Toledo Hospital and behind the Police Sub-Station. (419) 936-2700.
> Night Session Orchestra: Aug. 1.
> East River Drive: 6-8 p.m. Aug. 8.
> Groovemaster: 6-8 p.m. Aug. 14.

Courtyard Concerts: Beats are paired with eats for this music series: each day’s music features food from a specific eatery. Tim Oehlers/Joey Fratello’s Pizzeria: 1:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Aug. 4, Latham Courtyard, South Main and East Sandusky streets, Findlay.

One SeaGate Summer Concert Series: Music to lunch by. 1:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Aug. 25, 1 SeaGate courtyard; inside park level if raining. (419) 243-2000.
> Scott Potter Band: Aug. 4.
> GrooveMaster: Aug. 11.

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.
> Aug. 7: The Potential.
> Aug. 14: Voodoo Libido.

The Flecks: This well-known local band will take the stage. 9 p.m. Aug. 1, Wesley’s Bar & Grill, 1201 Adams St. (419) 255-3333.

Rock Ready Remedy: Mobile Deathcamp and eight other local acts will perform. This event, which will benefit Make-A-Wish, also will feature a poker run and bike and tattoo competitions. 1 p.m.-midnight Aug. 1, Travelers Motorcycle Club, 8950 Dorr St. $5-$7. (419) 865-6327 or travelersmctoledo.com.

Gran Baile dance: Emperador Latino will play cumbia, rock, duranguense, banda and reggaeton. 8 p.m. Aug. 1, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1148, 719 S. Main St., Bowling Green. $10. (419) (419) 9031 or midwestmusica.com.

John Legend: A modern soul singer and Ohio native, Legend has worked with a variety of music notables, including Kanye West, Alicia Keys, Janet Jackson and D’Angelo; with India Arie. 7:30 p.m. Aug. 5, Toledo Zoo amphitheater, 2700 Broadway. $40.50-$70.50. (419) 474-1333 or (419) 385-4040.

Sunset Serenades: “Extra Shout.” Take in sweet sounds as the sun sets over Lake Olander. 7 p.m.-dusk Aug. 5, 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: Ottawa County Bluegrass Band. The presidential porch of Rutherford B. Hayes becomes the stage for free outdoor concerts. 6:45-8 p.m. Aug. 5, Hayes Presidential Center, Buckland Avenue, Fremont. (419) 332-2081, ext. 38, or (800) 998-7737.

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

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. Aug. 11 (Aug. 18 if rain), Maumee Branch Library, 501 River Road, Maumee. (419) 259-5360.

Rock ’n’ Roar: Whatever party pants are, the zoo invites people to wear ’em to this summer dance party, slated to host four musical acts. 7 p.m. Aug. 14, Toledo Zoo, 2700 Broadway. $25 in advance. (419) 385-5721, ext. 2091, or www.toledozoo.org.

Noon Tunes: Al fresco outdoor concerts; picnics are welcome. Noon-1 Aug. 14 and 28, Wildwood Preserve Metropark gazebo, in front of the Manor House, 5100 W. Central Ave. (419) 535-3056.

Concerts on the Lawn: Music will waft over the grounds of the former home of Virginia Stranahan. Blankets and lawn chairs are welcome. 7-8:30 p.m., 577 Foundation, 577 E. Front St., Perrysburg. (419) 874-4174 or www.577foundation.org.
> Cake Walkin’ Jass Band: Along with more kids activities and jazzy art projects. Aug. 16.

Daniel O’Donnell: This Irish singer has won the hearts of legions with his renditions of easy-listening tunes and songs from his homeland. 2 p.m. Aug. 16, UT’s Savage Arena, 2801 W. Bancroft St. $39.50-$69.50. (419) 537-9106, (419) 535-9100 or (800) 628-8687.

SPORT
Fore! The House golf outing: Fee includes 18 holes, cart and buffet lunch. 9 a.m. registration; shotgun start at 10 Aug. 3, the Legacy by Arthur Hills, 7677 Route 223, Ottawa Lake, Mich. $150; benefits Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northwest Ohio. Kim Bartlett: (419) 471-4663, ext. 202.

Maumee River Canoe Float: “Explore the scenic Maumee River” from its surface. 1-2:30 p.m. Aug. 15, Farnsworth Metropark boat launch, 8505 S. River Road (Route 24), Waterville. $10. Call for restrictions and reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

STAGE
Connxtions Comedy Club: Comedians bring their best yuks for your amusement. 5319 Heatherdowns Blvd. $12-$14. (unless noted otherwise). (419) 867-9041.
> Kevin Zeoli: 8 and 10 p.m. Aug. 1.
> Howard G: 8 p.m. Aug. 6 and 8 and 10 p.m. Aug. 7-8.
> Frank G: 8 p.m. Aug. 13 and 8 and 10 p.m. Aug. 14-15.

Funny Bone: 6140 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg. $12-$14, unless noted otherwise. (419) 931-3474.
> Bobcat Goldthwait: 7 and 10 p.m. Aug. 1. $20.
> Arnez J: 8 and 10:30 p.m. Aug. 7; 7, 9:30 and 11:45 p.m. Aug. 8; and 7:30 p.m. Aug. 9. $25.

“The Full Monty”: Six unemployed Buffalo steelworkers take their talents to the stage for a Chippendales-style show. 8 p.m. Aug. 1, Toledo Repertoire Theatre, 16 10th St. $25-$30. (419) 243-9277.

“Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”: Travel back to ancient Egypt for this Andrew Lloyd Webber/Tim Rice musical based on the biblical story of brotherly jealousy. 7:30 p.m. Aug. 1, 7 and 8 and 2 p.m. Aug. 2, Collingwood Arts Center, 2413 Collingwood Blvd. $5-$9. (419) 244-2787 or www.collingwoodartscenter.org.

“City of Angels”: A spoof of 1940s film noir and hard-boiled Hollywood, with enough dames, thugs and gunshots to keep the audience guessing. 8 p.m. Aug. 1 and Aug. 6-8 and 3 p.m. Aug. 2 and 9, Croswell Opera House, 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian, Mich. $16-$28. (517) 264-7469.

“Willy Wonka Jr.”: Songs from “Willy Wonka” movie are melded into this stage adaptation of Roald Dahl’s story. 7 p.m. Aug. 14-15 and 2:30 p.m. Aug. 16, Toledo Repertoire Theatre, 16 10th St.  $5-$10. (419) 243-9277.

WHEEL FUN
Murder Mystery Dinner Train: Find out exactly how far Howie Cheatum went to start his fast food Poi Boy empire in “Lethal Luau.” 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.

Sunshine Benefit Car Show: A DJ will play oldies and there will be a 50/50 drawing and a raffle of a rebuilt Ford 302 motor. Proceeds will benefit Sunshine Children’s Home. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Aug. 2, The Andersons, 530 Illinois Ave., Maumee. $8 registration. (419) 837-6914.

Caboose Tours: The best part about the train? Arguably, the end. Take a peek inside on these tours. 1-4 p.m. Aug. 2, 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. Aug. 6, Main Street, Pemberville. (419) 287-3236 or (419) 287-3274.

Classic Car Show: More than 300 classic cars will converge in downtown Perrysburg, along with prizes, food and entertainment. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Aug. 8, Louisiana Avenue. (419) 873-7653.

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

AAA Classic Car and Truck Show: More than 200 classic vehicles will be parked for spectators to drool over. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Aug. 9, AAA Northwest Ohio, 7150 W. Central Ave. (419) 843-1200; participate: (419) 843-1287 or www.AAA.com.

Ragtime and the Bluebird: The Cake Walkin’ Jass Band will perform for riders on the train. 1, 2:30 and 4 p.m. Aug. 15, Toledo, Lake Erie & Western Railway, 49 N. Sixth St., Waterville. $7.50-$11. (419) 878-2177, (866) 638-7246 or www.tlew.org.

Lance Cpl. Luke Yonkee Memorial Ride: A car/truck/bike show will take place along with the ride, which benefits Heroes in Action Military Support Outreach. Entertainment is planned, too. 8 a.m. Aug. 15, Community Homecoming Park, 7807 Angola Rd., Holland. Ride registration: $20-$30; (419) 699-3439.

Magical Train Ride: Poopeck the Clown will perform feats of prestidigitation, as well as juggling and balloon creation. Aug. 16, Toledo, Lake Erie & Western Railway, 49 N. Sixth St., Waterville. $7.50-$11. (419) 878-2177, (866) 638-7246 or www.tlew.org.

Related article: Publisher’s Statement: “A request”

Toledo Free Press (TFP) sent a letter to the Lucas County Board of Elections and Ohio Secretary of State July 30, alerting them to potential inconsistencies among signatures on Lucas County Republican Party campaign finance reports and other official documents.

TFP obtained and compared copies of a voter registration card, designation of treasurer, general fund, building fund, candidate fund and judicial fund documents said to be signed by Lucas County Republican Party Treasurer James Damas. TFP then enlisted three national handwriting experts pro bono to examine the signatures and provide assessments.

The experts viewed digital copies and made cursory assessments based on the assumption that Damas’ voter registration signature is authentic.

“The designation of treasurer on 6-14-08; I don’t think he did that one,” said Eugene Hussey, a handwriting expert in Firecrest, Wash. “The next one down, general fund, I don’t think he did that one, either. And the next one below it, I don’t think he did that one, either, but I think the same person printed the name [next to the signature] … The next one, he might have done that one, designation of treasurer. And below that, general fund again, he might have done that one, too. It’s a pretty good chance he did that one. And the next three — building fund, candidate’s fund and judicial fund — I don’t think he did any of them.”

“It doesn’t look like the same person would have written that [the same way] as the voter registration [form]; it just looks different,” said Terry Davenport, a handwriting expert in Dallas, Texas, regarding a signature on a document titled “General Fund.” Numbers on the forms were also compared.

Mike Robertson, a handwriting expert in North Canton, wrote, “Three of the signatures are within the identifiable range of Damas’ normal genuine writing based on the six documents presented to me … Some people never develop a singular unique style of writing for a variety of reasons … on the other hand differences, not variations, can be a sign of forgery.”

Fifth-degree felony

Ohio Revised Code, section 3517.10 states, “The statement of contributions and expenditures shall be signed by the person completing the form.” The statute continues to dictate the means by which electronic transfer of signatures is to be accomplished. Under Ohio law, according to the office of the Ohio Secretary of State, “A fifth-degree felony conviction [of election falsification] may result in a prison sentence of six to 12 months and/or a fine of up to $2,500.”

According to Ohio Secretary of State Press Secretary Jeff Ortega, only a party treasurer or deputy treasurer may sign financial documents. He also said the forms may not be signed by proxy.

Damas did not answer calls to his home or the Lucas County Republican Party headquarters. Party Chairman Jon Stainbrook did not answer calls on his cell phone or the party headquarters. Stainbrook told FOX Toledo July 30 that the concerns raised by the article are “a bunch of baloney.”

In a July 30 letter to Linda Howe, executive director, Lucas County Board of Elections, and David M. Farrell, deputy assistant secretary of state and director of elections, TFP Editor in Chief Michael S. Miller requested the investigation.

“As we are not experts in these matters, we are asking your office to investigate if Mr. Damas’ name was forged on these documents, and what the course of action will be if violations are proven,” Miller wrote.

Possible discrepancies

The examination was prompted by the findings of Glass City Jungle blog owner and TFP fact checker Lisa Renee Ward. Reading several Lucas County Republican Party documents, Ward claimed she observed possible inconsistencies among five signatures made by Treasurer James Damas in a period of time starting July 31, 2008 and ending Jan. 30, 2009.

“People have to have faith in our electoral system, and when something like this happens, it shatters their faith,” Ward said. “If the signatures aren’t really valid, it could possibly have very deep ramifications.”

Ward said she stumbled across the possible discrepancies July 20 while researching claims made in the July 19 Blade article “Republican chief says last vestiges of Noes must go” by Blade staff reporter JC Reindl.

Scrutinizing various documents, she said she detected possible differences between Damas’ signatures in four reports. She said these were the Lucas County Republican Party’s July 31, 2008 general fund report, its Dec. 11, 2008 general fund report, its Dec. 11, 2008 designation of treasurer form and a Jan. 30, 2009 building fund report. In her eyes, she said, something was obviously amiss.

“It is pretty blatant,” Ward said of the contrast between the signatures. “It looked like four different people.”

Ward also researched recent filings by Lucas County Democratic party Treasurer Nancy Norman. No irregularities were observed on those documents.

Interest of transparency

Attorney Jeff Simpson, who is president of the Lucas County Young Republicans Club, was shown the Damas documents by TFP. Stating that he is not a handwriting analysis expert, he said, “It looks like three groups of signatures that are not the same. There is an issue here that needs to be looked at in the interest of transparency, if for no other cause than to reaffirm public trust in the Republican Party. Accusations of fraud and forgery cannot be ignored.”

Derek Merrin, the Republican mayor of Waterville, reviewed the Damas signatures, and in an e-mail statement, said, “The signatures certainly arouse suspicion. A thorough investigation needs to be conducted to ascertain whether the signatures are fraudulent.”

Republican State Senator Mark Wagoner was traveling and could not review the documents, but said, “If there is any question about the authenticity of the signatures, there should be an investigation. I am a law and order guy, and there should be no doubt in the public mind.”

(AP) — Insults, boasts, suggestive messages and preaching are bringing in $13.5 million for Ohio even during an economic recession.
There are currently 401,543 Ohio vehicles with vanity plates, each at a cost of $35 a year.

Ohio drivers may spot the likes of “OTHELLO,” “VIXEN,” “U2FAT,” “YESUCAN,” and “AUTISM” sharing the roadways, according to a list of all vanity plates purchased in the last two years reviewed by The (Canton) Repository.

Arranging four to seven characters — all letters, all numerals, or a combination — into unique plate monikers makes the combination of choices seemingly endless.

Many plates are inoffensive, and can simply be bought with the extra fee. With others, the state has to balance free speech rights with a request’s potential to offend other motorists.

We try to err on the side of balance,” said Lindsey Wayt Bohrer, a spokeswoman for the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles. “We try to limit profanity, but on the other side is freedom of speech.”

An agency committee meets every work morning to review the previous day’s requests from across the state. The committee has rejected 894 vanity plate applications in the last year.

A handbook contains words that bring an automatic rejection. Any requests that include profanity and sexual explicitness, or advocate lawlessness are rejected.

Committee members also have to make sure they are up on the latest sayings to make sure no drivers can sneak any requests by them. The Internet is a useful tool, and so is knowledge of pig Latin.

The following plates got through in the last two years: “ADULTOY,” “BIGRL,” “CPL4FUN,” “MEN4MEN,” “STRPTSE,” and “DRTYWHR.”
The committee also has to be creative in the way it interprets some requests

For example, “TRYTOFU” can be read as an entreaty to try a favorite vegetarian fare, or it can be read as something else.
On the other side of the spectrum, religious plates are also popular. Plates in use include “YOJESUS,” “YNOTGOD,” “JESUS,” “LVJESUS,” “MYLORD,” “PLSPRAY,” “SAVIOR,” and “WER4GOD.”

Nearly all identical letter combinations, such as ZZZZZZZ, UUUUU or OOOO, have already been claimed by someone.

Toledo Mayor Carty Finkbeiner announced July 27 that the Ohio Supreme Court ruled to prevent a recall effort from appearing on the ballot on Nov. 3.

According to the court document State ex rel. Finkbeiner v. Lucas Cty. Bd. of Elections, the petition did not include a legal clause stating that election falsification is a felony of the fifth-degree.

“For nearly 12 years I have given my heart and soul to a city called Toledo,” Finkbeiner said at a 3:30 p.m. press conference.

Finkbeiner filed a protest to the Lucas County Board of Election’s decision to allow Take Back Toledo Leadership to include a ballot issue that would recall him as mayor. When the Board of Elections denied it, the case appeared before the Ohio Supreme Court.

Finkbeiner cited the failure to include the clause and claimed some 2,500 petition signatures were invalid as reasons to repeal the decision, according to the court document.

The opposing party, which includes Schlachter, has 10 days to file a motion for reconsideration, said Bret Crow, the Supreme Court of Ohio public information officer.

“I’m not perfect, but Toledo has a bright future,” Finkbeiner said. “And non-Toledoans Tom Schlachter, Andy Stuart, Brian Schwartz, [Toledo Free Press Editor in Chief] Michael Miller and others should move into Toledo or invest in Toledo if they wish to play a leadership role in Toledo.”

Miller, who lived in Toledo for 35 years, is a graduate of Libbey High School and the University of Toledo but now lives in Tecumseh, Mich., said that while he has never been a member of the Take Back Toledo effort, he “strongly supported” the group’s efforts in his weekly column.

“As Finkbeiner’s legacy has collapsed around him and buried a large number of Toledoans under the debris of failed policy, broken relationships with the suburbs and public relations disasters that brought Toledo international shame, it has been gratifying to see thousands of Toledoans support Take Back Toledo,” Miller said. “It is another in a long list of hypocrisies that Finkbeiner scolds critics who work but do not live in Toledo, while he all but bows before a Blade owner who lives as far away as Pittsburgh.”

Around an estimated 600 people packed into the Collingwood Arts Center’s auditorium on July 24 to sing hymns, play melancholy classical pieces and tell stories about Toledo’s activist, environmentalist and musician Robert Brundage.

The crowd fell silent to the tones of a harp, a cello, an organ and the TSO string quartet and some friends and family read Bible passages and excerpts from essays by Henry David Thoreau and Ralph Waldo Emerson.

To celebrate Brundage’s life, some also shared their own poems.

“He…this flower of a man… beckoned me to look closer,” Warren Woodbery read to the crowd in his poem “A Flower that is not a Weed.” “He beckoned me to see what he saw from this crack in the sidewalk. He beckoned me to see a city, a neighborhood and a cause.”

Brundage’s brother, David, told the crowd how Brundage developed his love for nature even as a small child, playing in the dirt in their backyard and climbing ginkgo and cherry trees. Brundage cared for a slew of animals, including parakeets, hamsters, dogs and even a rat, David Brundage added.

Brundage graduated from University of Toledo and lived in Boston until he retired. With an engineering physics degree and Ph.D. in biophysics, Brundage designed medical instruments, researched for a company called Instrumentation Laboratory Inc. and worked as a chemist for the National Bureau of Standards among other professions.

He also recorded and edited performances for Harvard University, MIT, New England Conservatory and others.

He moved to back to his hometown of Toledo to care for his sick father and ended up staying in Toledo because he had made such strong bonds in the community, Brundage said.

Some at the memorial service knew “Dr. Bob” as a teacher, an environmentalist, a colleague, a partner in justice or a friend.

“Emerson would have called Bob’s life “well-lived,” said Reverend Lynn Kerr of the First Unitarian Church of Toledo. “He found inspiration and meaning for a great many and he believed every being had worth and dignity. Our congregation stresses working for justice and peace, something that Bob embodied.”

Politicians at the local and even state level wrote resolutions memorializing Brundage. State Senators passed a resolution to memorialize Brundage and Toledo’s city council members passed a resolution in Brundage’s honor, also dedicating a bike path to him.

David Brundage made some of his first memories as a child with his brother Robert biking on the path and running around in Ottawa Park’s expansive grassy spaces and wooded areas.

So when Mayor Carty Finkbeiner dedicated the bicycle path that encircles the entire park, friends and family at the dedication ceremony said choosing this site to honor Robert Brundage was very fitting.

“For decades we have participated in all the things this park has to offer,” Brundage said.

Finkbeiner and other city officials named the path in his honor on July 24, the day of the memorial ceremony, presenting signs that read “Robert Brundage Bike Trail; Ottawa Park” to be posted along various points in the trail.

Brundage rode his bike everywhere, regardless of weather or distance, to avoid polluting with automobile emissions, many friends have said.

Ottawa Park, the city’s largest park with the longest paved path in the area, was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, a leader of the late 1800’s movement to beautify cities, said Harry Ward, president of the Ottawa-Jermain Park Advisory Board. Olmsted designed major parks in cities across the country, including Central Park, in hopes that natural beauty and well-preserved landscape would draw people to the city and offer a solution to crowded, stressful circumstances in down-town areas.

Brundage shared Olmested’s philosophy that linked a city’s well-being to the natural world, Ward said.

“This is Toledo’s version of Central Park,” said Michael Szuberla, one of Brundage’s friends through Toledo Grows. “It’s the heart and lungs of the city.”

Finkbeiner told the crowd that he and other city officials wanted to honor Brundage because of his deep impact on everyone in the city.

“Bob was a rare individual,” Finkbeiner said. “Bob, by his example, taught us about love and life.”

Brundage died on July 7, at age 66, a little over two weeks after 15-year-old Dailahntae Jemison attacked him and robbed him of his bike at the corner of Victoria Place and Collingwood Avenue.

“Robert was a sinew of energy and he spread energy and positivity and goodness to all of us and I hope you all will continue to do that in your own special way,” said Audrey Johnson, Executive Director of the Collingwood Arts Center.

“Goodbye and Good Riddance,” July 23, 2009.

This exciting Wii exclusive game set can get your body moving while adding high entertainment into your daily routine…so much that you might forget you’re working out.
Punch-Out (Nintendo)

Punch Out

Little Mac, King Hippo, Glass Joe … even if you don’t know these references, you’ll still have an active, visceral experience playing Punch-Out, Nintendo’s latest remediation of a classic Nintendo Entertainment System game (sans Mike Tyson). Veterans of the original title, released in the early 1990s, will get a deeper experience during this physical, retro game. Even additional characters like the Disco Kid fit into the game fighting mode perfectly just like the two revised control schemes. The remote and nunchuk controller combo is a simple right hand/left hand attack (hooks, uppercuts, jabs, etc.) and can be used with the optional Wii Balance Board (included with the Wii Fit game, another Nintendo blockbuster) to duck and dodge punches. The classic NES-style control works by using the Wii Remote horizontally.
The cell-shaded visuals keep the cartoony atmosphere fun as unique touches like the comic strip like introduction of each character make this game special. Trainer Doc Louis provides guidance for offensive, defensive and special moves like extra powerful “star punches”. The ability to fight as each character and the two player split-screen mode provide a lot of replay value. It’s relatively easy to overcome opponents, even when they’re in the bigger, monster-like mode, with skilled timing and controlled coordination, so don’t panic. Developers provide a nice punch counter in the top middle screen, so you know how to strategize your actions better (****, rated E10+ for cartoon violence and comic mischief).

Dance Dance Revolution Disney Grooves (Konami)

This essential Dance Dance Revolution game version will keep the kids (and adults) moving, but needs more strong song remixes, improved control response and a wider range of picks from the Disney library. These limitations may stem from simple budgets for licenses…or maybe developers are waiting for the next likely installment. This game is essential because it accommodates one to four players and includes two dance pads for a little bit more than a regularly priced Wii game, so you can really get an active jump on dance games if you’re new to the genre. It’s also a great opportunity for older gamers to teach the young ones those rhythm rumbas.

The game does a great job promoting the dance moves, especially by not penalizing most incorrect moves throughout gameplay and only giving the ending performance in star ratings after scores at the top. Developers make an admirable attempt to get the whole body moving by combining the Wii-mote and nunchuk for dance moves. The controls can be challenging at times and require some practice. Some areas don’t require the nunchuk while other areas do.

The overall game library consists of more than 40 songs with a very enthusiast announcer and audiences that never boo you off the stage. You can get encouraging comments even with a 0 score, so the young tikes can really participate in this game. A co-operative friendship mode tallies the best score of each dance step, which rewards some fun tag team play where veterans can help the little ones improve. Some remixes are hot or cold. A remix of “Chim Chim Cher-ee” really gets you bouncing, but then “Hakuna Matata” disappoints. You can even slow things down with “He’s a Tramp” from Lady and the Tramp. Older players might cringe at synergetic titles like “Ice Ice Mickey”.

You get Mickey Mouse, Minnie, Goofy, Donald, Daisy and Pluto as danceable characters. Developers also incorporate your Mii into the dances as well as the Studio mode where you can mix your Mii in with the Disney characters and take pictures. Over 35 colorful settings add appeal and 60 costume changes help too. You can also view high score records any time and select autosave so you don’t lose progress.

Essential for Disney fans who are sure to recognize all the content, even songs from the famous Disney theme parks, with enough modes (free play, workout, etc.), unlockable content and difficulty levels for decent replay value (***1/2, rated E).

Gold’s Gym Cardio Workout (UbiSoft)

This very affordable Wii workout game gives you a personal trainer right in your own home. You get a calendar to follow and can choose from a set workout or choose your own lesson, exam or exercise. The instructions include clear visuals and text, so your pace doesn’t get interrupted. Settings include the standard gym and exterior places like the beach or forest and you choose from six possible instructors, beginning with Alex or Nina, (others with outfit changes are unlockable). You’re under the honor system to put in your current weight to begin your workout journey.

The simple controls offer options like two remotes or one remote and nunchuk while incorporating the Wii balance board. Besides making responsive movements, knowing your right hand from your left hand become the biggest challenges here. Exercise difficulty can be set initially and increases as you progress. Boxing movements like dodging while punching can be especially challenging. Exercises actions involve back strengthening, dodges, ducks, leg raises, push-ups, reverse sit-ups, squats and upper cuts. The unlockable exercise modes add more variety (log chopping) and comedy (check out “Roadwork”). Overall, the exercises focus more on the upper body especially on the arms and shoulders. Some exercises encourage lower body motion, but don’t require it.
Statistical information includes your physical age, BMI (body mass index); calories burned and body weight progression. This performance-based information can discourage in the short term, but fun compilers like the punch count and the calendar can be very rewarding over time. You can even set a goal for a specific weight you want to achieve. As you progress, your accrued “gold” becomes your currency for shopping for clothes and other accessories. Music motivation comes from a huge tune cache to preview and play. Other instrumental song versions, like “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor…of course, for the boxing, are included during exercise sessions. The graphics are minimal and could use improvement. Incentives are there as long as you’re accountable to yourself because a virtual trainer is pretty easy to avoid. This affordable workout game includes a coupon for a 7-day VIP membership to Gold’s Gym (***, rated E for comic mischief).

One of the trailers for “World’s Greatest Dad,” a new movie written and directed by Bobcat Goldthwait, begins with a student reading aloud her graphic poem about childbirth.
“Thank you. That was — very personal,” says Lance Clayton, the nonpublished writer turned teacher played by Robin Williams. “Anybody else have their haiku?”
“I’m really happy that people have been enjoying [the trailer] because I think we did capture the tone,” Goldthwait said. “The movie is kind of dark and twisted, but we’re not trying to pull a fast one; it’s not ‘Marley & Me.’”
The R-rated film premiered at the Sundance Festival in January and is scheduled for release this fall.

“I’ve always been drawn to that uncomfortable — you know, when I’d watch Andy Kaufman and I didn’t know if it was real or fake, even when I watch the Woody Allen movies from the ‘80s and ‘70s, he was always really big on these awkward, awkward moments, and for some reason that always made me laugh,” Goldthwait said during a phone interview from Los Angeles.
The comedian connected with disturbing humor at a young age.
“My earliest memories of watching movies were watching the film version of ‘Arsenic and Old Lace,’ you know, and being a little boy and having to ask my mom what was really going on, and I got so excited when I found out the old ladies were killing people,” he said.
Fans can expect Goldthwait’s dark humor when he comes to Fat Fish Blue, 6140 Levis Commons Blvd. in Perrysburg. He will perform shows at 8 and 10:30 p.m. July 31 and at 7 and 10 p.m. Aug. 1. Tickets are $20.
“I usually talk about things until it’s OK to talk about them and then I drop them from my act. Like I’ll be talking about Michael Jackson until a year from now when other comedians feel it’s safe,” he said.
Combining wincing and laughing has been effective for the 47-year-old. “Sleeping Dogs Lie,” another film he wrote and directed, was screened at the Sundance Film Festival in 2006.
“I think if [Sundance] had happened to me when I was a younger man, I wouldn’t understand what it meant. To me, it’s an even bigger deal. I’ve said this before and I think it’s true: If you work at Sundance and you receive a DVD of a movie and it says written and directed by Bobcat Goldthwait, I come with a lot of baggage, you know what I mean? I can’t imagine them going, ‘Yeah, we should book him right into the programming pile,’” the comic said.
“The thing that was really exciting at Sundance is both times I had movies there, people seemed to laugh and enjoy them and clap and like the movie, but it was exciting for me to go out in the lobby and overhearing people having discussions,” Goldthwait said. “I like that these movies seem to raise ethical questions with people.”

On the Web: visit www.bobcatswebsite.com and click on links for more information.

As Myron “Ron” Skulas prepared to scale the old TV antenna adjacent to his Sylvania Township home, he gave little thought to any potential danger. After all, he’d climbed the tower a hundred times or more, he figured, without incident.
This day, Nov. 17, 2007, was different. As he worked his way toward the roof, where leaf-clogged gutters awaited, the tower, rusted at its base, snapped, sending the 285-pound Skulas crashing to the ground, beneath the fallen antenna.
Skulas, retired U.S. Army with a wry wit, remembers his first words: “I’m not dead. That’s good. Where’s my glasses?”
The glasses were within an arm’s reach. Skulas fetched them, wriggled out from under the antenna and crawled into the house, where he dialed 911. At Toledo Hospital, doctors diagnosed a lumbar fracture — painful and problematic, but not life-threatening. Skulas was admitted but expected to be released shortly.
Two days later, while his family watched the Ohio State-Michigan football game in his hospital room, Skulas — without warning —stopped breathing. He was rushed to the intensive care unit and intubated. Tests revealed that a large clot, known as a saddle embolism, had lodged in the area above his lungs, and that other, smaller clots had formed nearby. His condition quickly turned grave.

As Skulas later recalled, “That’s when things went from bad to really bad.”
High-risk procedure
With the clot certain to kill him, Skulas’ girlfriend, Beth Maggard, a registered nurse working in Cincinnati, and his sister, Irene Skulas, had only minutes to OK a procedure known as angiojet, which might eliminate the saddle clot but also could result in his death.
“It was very high risk; I would say a 60-40 or even 70-30 [chance of not surviving],” said Dr. David Epperson of Toledo Critical Care, whose four-physician team helped direct Skulas’s care.
Doctors removed enough of the clot to restore some blood and oxygen flow to Skulas’ lungs. Still, his situation was so perilous, a coma was medically induced in an effort to stabilize his condition.
Life threatening
Once the clot dissipated, attention turned to other crises that arose one after the other. One of Skulas’ kidneys began hemorrhaging. Upon inspection, doctors discovered the kidney had been lacerated in the fall. More than 14 units of blood and two procedures were required to stem that potentially fatal disaster.
Skulas, still in a coma, made it to Thanksgiving. Then, accumulative trauma to his body sent his lungs into respiratory distress, another potential killer. A procedure in which they tossed Skulas’ secured body in a flipping motion eventually cleared his lungs, but it took three efforts, and the violent motion opened a large sore near his tailbone.
If that wasn’t enough, the many drugs used to keep him alive along with his weakened condition caused his good kidney to shut down. He was placed on dialysis. Then, for good measure, his blood became infected — another frequent killer. Skulas survived that, too.
Meanwhile, family and scores of friends spent hours at his bedside. Sally Grether, a member of St. Elias Antiochian Orthodox-Christian Church, where Skulas is a sub-deacon, recalled her daily vigil: “We prayed for him and we prayed for the doctors and nurses who took care of him. They were unbelievably skilled. We held on to the hope that he would survive and be with us again. To what extent, we had no idea.”
Grether and the others who were there saw a comatose man down 50 pounds with bones protruding from his arms and a pair of calves turned to mush. A tube traveled from his trachea to a ventilator, providing him with air, and five intravenous lines were attached to his neck area, dispensing nourishment and the drugs that kept him asleep and pain free.
The sight was particularly hard on Skulas’ sons, Mark, 27, and Paul, 24. In October 2005, their mother, Diane Skulas — Ron’s wife of 27 years — died after a bout with cancer. Ron recalled that a doctor told Mark in the early stages of his ICU stay: “Your Dad is more dead than alive. He’s trying hard to die, and we’re trying hard not to let him.”
About that time, a nurse called Paul, a U.S. Marine based in Cherry Point, N.C., and told him: “If you want to see your father alive, you need to come here now.”
Back from the dead
Christmas passed. Along came 2008. Gradually, Skulas’ condition improved. His doctors, impressed with his progress, began weaning him off the drugs. Finally, on Jan. 15, two months after his accident, he emerged from his coma. He remembers: “My first thought was, ‘I’m in a hospital room. I screwed up.’ Then I felt the tubes and thought, ‘Oh, I screwed up bad.’ When I couldn’t move my legs I thought, ‘This isn’t good at all.’ ”
But in fact, the news was all good. On Feb. 13, the day before his 53rd birthday, Skulas was transferred to the rehabilitation unit at Flower Hospital, where from his room he saw the sun for the first time in three months. “I think that was the best therapy for me; I got to see nature,” he said.
He couldn’t walk; he couldn’t even stand; the drugs had had a debilitating effect on his body, according to Epperson. But, he was alive. Two days later, Mark and Paul called to tell their father they both were engaged to be married. Not wanting to be outdone by his sons, Skulas privately contemplated a wedding date with Maggard. “Yes,” he thought, “things are looking up.”
Skulas’ rehabilitation was an arduous process. His therapists pushed him. One day, with the aid of a lift and a walker, he stood for 130 seconds. He later reported his progress to Maggard in a phone call, as he did every evening.
“It was so exciting to hear that,” she said. “We didn’t know what to expect.”
In mid-March, Skulas moved from Flower to Lake Park Nursing Facility. Then, on the last day of the month, with four inches of new snow on the ground, Beth shoveled the driveway at Skulas’ house, drove a few miles to Lake Park and helped him into his Honda Element. On their way home, they stopped at St. Elias, where an emotional and grateful Skulas prayed in front of an icon of Mary.
At home after a four-and-a-half month absence, one of the first things he noticed was the Christmas tree, put there by his son, Paul, and good friends, Cyril and Carol Yonov.
“Paul told me, ‘We’ll take it down when Dad gets home, [after] we celebrate Christmas,’” Skulas said.
Much work remained, as Skulas attempted to become whole again — physically and mentally. The drugs and the stress from the experience left him an emotional wreck for months. Tears frequently appeared and could not be controlled, while frightening nightmares persisted. Finally, about a year ago, the crying and bad dreams subsided.
Meanwhile, soon after Skulas’ release from Lake Park, another friend, Allen Fingerle, began turning up to help him with daily walks. The first day Skulas made it to his mailbox but was exhausted. Each day, they worked their way up his street, one house at a time. By last summer, motorists driving down busy Flanders Road were able to see Skulas, aided by his walker, and Fingerle tooling along the berm.
A new man
Day by day, month by month, Skulas improved. He returned to St. Elias, where his booming voice, missing for so many months, was a welcome sound, in particular to the priest, Very Rev. Fr. Paul Albert, who had been by his side throughout his hospital stay.
Last Christmas, Skulas visited Toledo Hospital bearing gifts for the doctors and nurses who saved him. Epperson said he was grateful for the gesture and impressed with Skulas’ progress.
So how did Skulas survive what would have killed so many others?
“He’s a very, very special individual,” Epperson said. “He has the will. He has the determination. He has the right personality. He’s a fighter.”
And, something else.
“I think,” Epperson continued, “that the majority of people who survive this have strong family and social support. They have people who are helping them and praying for them. [Frankly], I think there’s a lot of medicine that doctors may or may not want to admit is beyond their control.”
Skulas, now 54, and Maggard, 53, were married in May. Last month, he moved into his wife’s suburban Cincinnati home. With a Ph.D. in communications, Skulas hopes to return to work shortly. Meanwhile, he continues rebuilding his body, which is up to 270 pounds, much of it muscle. Surprising developments continue. His neurosurgeons told him he would never regain full use of his right foot, which has required an orthotic brace when he walks. Recently, during his daily three-mile stroll, he suddenly stopped one mile from the finish, removed the orthotic and walked on without any issue or discomfort.
“God has worked [another one] for me,” he said.
Not surprisingly, Skulas has a softer, more sobering perspective than before. “My first thing in the morning is to thank God for the gift of the day. Some people will say nice little expressions. ‘Oh, thank you, it’s a beautiful day.’ No, dude, thank you! Each and every day is a gift until He decides I’ve worn out my welcome.”
Sally Grether of St. Elias and Skulas’ many friends had just gotten used to him being back in church when she heard he was moving.
“You’re leaving?” she asked.
Skulas, reminding Grether where he had been not so long ago, had the perfect response.
“Ah,” he said, “but I can come back.”

We are going to begin this week’s column with a pop quiz.
Please take out your No. 2 Ticonderoga pencils and put all books, folders and cheat sheets under your desk. There will also be no math. So, you can also stash your TI-83 calculators, with the formulas saved, in your book bag.
First question: What college did Colts quarterback Peyton Manning attend?
Second question: What college did retired NBA great Michael Jordan attend?
Third question: What college did Phillies slugger Ryan Howard attend?
Chances are most sports fans knew the first two questions without sweating it like Shaquille O’Neal at the foul line.
There is a silent competition amongst most die-hard sports connoisseurs to know where every player on every team went to college. It’s part of a trash-talking arsenal fanatics carry in their back pocket when catching a game with their buddies.
The funny thing is, collegiate questions rarely apply when talking baseball. Now it may have something to do with the fact that many ballplayers are either foreign and didn’t attend college before entering the league or the player was drafted out of high school and never attended college.
The argument with baseball is that fans are more interested in the numbers — the wins, the losses, the homerun totals — than they are about what the player’s major was in college.
So that got me to thinking. So much attention is paid to the power conferences: The Big 10, Pac-10 and SEC, why not give some love to a mid-major that’s boasting major league talent. And the Mid-American Conference has the numbers to back it up.
The saying goes Kent Read, Kent Write, Kent State, but it seems the school isn’t a golden flash in the pan when it comes to baseball.  Three former players are on major league rosters.
Minnesota Twins pitcher Matt Guerrier has four wins on the season. His win total matches the likes of White Sox starter Jose Contreras and Tampa Bay’s Scott Kazmir.  He’s also raking in a salary of $1.475 million.
Another former Golden Flash is Tampa Bay’s Andy Sonnanstine.  The righty has won six games this season, keeping him in the company of Boston’s Brad Penny and the Angels’ John Lackey.
Bowling Green State University is also represented in the big leagues this season.
Perrysburg native and former Falcon Burke Badenhop has secured himself a spot in the Florida Marlins bullpen. At press time, he owned an earned run average under four and five wins with the fish.
Burke’s one-time teammate with the Falcons, Nolan Reimold, has made a big splash with the Baltimore Orioles in his rookie season.  Reimold has been raking since a call up back in mid-May.
He’s hitting .269 with nine homers and 26 runs batted in.
Not to be outdone, the University of Toledo also has big league talent in Royals’ outfielder Mitch Maier. In a utility role since his call up at the beginning of the season, Maier has knocked in nine runs.
There are also Redhawks, Broncos and Bobcats littering 40-man rosters at the moment.
The point I’m trying to make is the MAC can hang with the all the BCS schools up in MLB.
Ryan Howard was a diamond in the rough while attending Missouri State. Now look at him. The 29-year-old is the big stick in Philadelphia’s lineup, raking in $15 million in 2009.
So, all you high school baseball players out there who have the privilege and opportunity to play at the next level, don’t worry if Rice, LSU or Cal State Fullerton forgets to come calling.
There’s nothing wrong with the MAC when it comes to America’s pastime.
Orel Hersheiser (BGSU), Bob Welch (Eastern Michigan) and Roger McDowell (BGSU) all took the chance and they have World Series rings.
With the names I mentioned earlier, maybe we’re witnessing a return of the MAC.

Ryan Fowler is the weekend sports anchor at NBC 24 and can be reached at bgsualum03@hotmail.com.