Most of us have seen gorgeous sunsets before, but when was the last time you purposefully sat and watched the sun set?
My wife and I took a trip to San Clemente, Calif. to visit a customer.  As we sat in the customer’s backyard, talking and watching the sun set over Catalina Island, I found the view absolutely breathtaking.
After seeing this gorgeous sunset, I found myself with a renewed sense of appreciation for the majestic beauty all around me.  It seemed that the humdrum of daily living had watered down my appreciation of natural beauty the same way fluorescent lights can sap your energy if they are your only exposure to light.
Books are like gorgeous sunsets because, though they are understood, they are wholly underappreciated and undervalued.
So, why don’t more people read? People don’t read often enough because they have lost touch with their student state-of-mind.  We find ourselves looking at a book and quickly determining whether or not we already “know” the information contained in the book. If we do “know” the material covered in the book, we minimize its perceived value.  If we do not “know” the material covered in the book, it is written off as invalid.  Both outcomes lead to the book being left, unread, on the table.
I already knew the sun was going to set, I knew where it was going to set, and I could look in the newspaper and know exactly what time it was going to set.  However, this “knowing” did not take away from the breathtaking experience of watching the sun set over the western horizon. Experiencing this sunset renewed my appreciation for what it represents — so much so that I could not resist standing and applauding in front of my hosts.
The real value of learning lies in how it changes you  —  in how it enhances who you are and what you are able to contribute to the world.  Learning is not something you acquire nor is it something you ever finish. Learning is a state-of-mind that lies at the heart of success and voracious reading lies at the heart of all learning.
The choice is simple: You can hang your future upon that degree and pat yourself on the back for having learned — even though you know deep down that you are not practicing that which you have learned.  Or, take that degree off the wall and declare that you will be a student for life.
When you declare yourself a lifelong student, everything changes; you will see the world differently.  You will start to search for ways to improve.  You will acknowledge that there is a lot you do not know, and you will appreciate the fact there is always a way to improve. As a lifelong student, you will no longer lay claim to the ownership of knowledge.
Whether you are trying to balance the family budget or trying to bring a new product to market, there are countless works available to keep you sharp, keep you fresh, and keep you constantly improving the world we share.
If you are an accountant, read a book on gardening and you will find things that will help you serve your clients.  If you are an artist, grab a book on economics and you will find symmetries that may spark an idea for your next masterpiece.
Build a strong foundation by grabbing a book; and, when you are given a beautiful idea, stand up, applaud, and feel the passion reverberate through every cell in your body.

For powerful ways to become a lifelong student go to www.boltfromtheblue.com and enter the work SUNSET in the blueprint box. Tom Richard is a Toledo-based sales and marketing consultant, keynote speaker and owner of Bolt from the Blue direct response advertising. Call (419) 441-1005.

Well it’s time once again for my annual pick of topical Halloween costumes. This makes the third year in a row that I have posted costume choices, though the first that I have done so through the TFP. I hope that this is early enough so that you who are still undecided can get out in time to gather the necessary materials.
Here are your national costume themes:

• Go back to the same house over and over again asking them for candy and then tell them, “No, never mind, I’m quitting the whole Halloween thing anyway”. When they ask what your costume is, tell them to take their pick: Brett Favre, Jay Leno, or Lance Armstrong. You just can’t decide.
• You could dress as an old man and Trick or Treat as director (and alleged pedophile) Roman Polankski but I wouldn’t advise it. You are liable to be arrested and extradited to California; where if you get what you deserve, they would lock you up for the rest of your sick, miserable life.
• Dress in a padded sumo wrestler’s costume, wear a ball cap, and insult everyone who gives you candy. When asked, tell them you are documentary film director Michael Moore and that they are probably some kind of corporate pirate or sick capitalist.
• Hit the streets with as many costumes as you can carry (each uglier than the last) and change before stopping at each house. When anyone asks, tell them you are national health care reform legislation.
• Dress in a suit and stop at each house, saying “you lie” instead of Trick or Treat. Then apologize and take the candy. Don’t worry, everyone will know you are South Carolina Rep. Joe Wilson.
• If the Joe Wilson thing gets boring, don’t worry. Wearing the same costume, simply grab the wallet of the owner of each house you Trick or Treat, take out all but a couple of bucks, and throw it back at them, telling them that this is all they deserve. When asked, tell them you are Pay Czar Kenneth Feinberg.
• Wear a stiff female mask and demand all of the candy of every house that you go to and every other person you meet on the street. When asked, tell them you are Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi and you will determine who gets what candy and how much.
• Start Trick or Treating a week ahead of time, do it again on Halloween, and continue for a week after. When asked, tell them you are President Obama and just wanted to make sure that they got the message.

For those who wish to dress in the spirit of Ohio

• Dress like a card dealer at a casino, but only stop at four houses. When asked, you can tell them you are State Issue 3.
• Dress as a slot machine and tell everyone not to touch you, you’re not supposed to be here in the first place.
• As you stand on each doorstep, front pockets pulled out and a glum look on your face, you should gradually slump down lower and lower. When asked, you can say that you are either the state budget for education or libraries.
• Trick or Treat in Poland instead of here locally, and when anyone (if anyone) asks, tell them you are Rep. Marcy Kaptur.
• Go out the day after Halloween and Trick or Treat. When they ask you who you are and why you are a day late, just tell them you’re Jon Stainbrook, chairman of the Lucas County Republican Party.

Here in Toledo

• Trick or Treat at only a very few houses and don’t seem very interested in the whole process. When asked, tell them you are a Toledo voter in a primary election.
• Lie flat on the doorstep of every house that you go to before saying Trick or Treat. When asked, tell them you are the vertical development at the Marina District.
• Dress as a bunch of flowers. When anyone asks who you are you can say, “I don’t know. Mayor Finkbeiner just sent me out to spruce up the neighborhood.”
• Wander the neighborhood putting pieces of paper on cars and removing Halloween decorations from yards. When anyone asks, tell them you are acting Commissioner of Streets, Bridges, & Harbors Sue Frederick.
• Dress up as a duck, walk with a limp, and when anyone asks yell at them that “you are Mayor Carlton S Finkbeiner dammit” (hopefully for the last time).
• Don’t forget the Toledo classic! Dress up with a piece of plywood hung sandwich board style front and back and tell them that you are damn near every building in downtown Toledo.

Remember to keep safe out there this year and have a good time.

Tim Higgins blogs at http://justblowingsmoke.blogspot.com/.

The Whitmer Panthers joined the City League for the 2003 football season, but a league championship has remained a dream.
“That has been the one thing that has eluded us,” said Whitmer head football coach Joe Palka. “Whether it was a points issue or a loss here or there, we had not won a title.”
But with a win over the Start Spartans on Oct. 30, the Whitmer Panthers will win their first City League championship, due in large part to the team’s special duo at quarterback, Joe Missler and Randall Kennedy.
The Panthers have utilized the athletic abilities of both this season in their offensive backfield. Missler and Kennedy rotate positions throughout the game. Whitmer has lined up both players at quarterback, wide receiver, and running back this season and it is something that coach Palka believes has given his team a leg up on the competition.
“It was an opportunity to put our best athletes in the backfield,” Palka said. “We feel Randall throws the ball really well and Joe has had a great year running the ball for us. It was us trying to be creative as we can, and maximize both of the kids’ talents.”
Some players might be intimidated not knowing where they are going to line up every down, but Missler, a senior, and Kennedy, a sophomore, have come to relish their unique roles in the Panther offense.
“I will do whatever I can for this team,” Missler said. “Whether I am playing quarterback, wide receiver, or running back, I do not care as long as we are winning.”
Kennedy echoed his teammates’ sentiments.
“No matter where you line up, you have to be ready and play hard,” he said. “You just try and do the best that you can to help the team.
It was three weeks ago that then-unbeaten Central found out just how dangerous the pair under center can be. Missler ran for 61 yards in the contest and Kennedy threw a 47 yard touchdown pass to help lead the Panthers past the Irish 14-7. The win put Whitmer back in the driver seat in the race for the City League title, after the Panthers had lost to the St. Francis Knights on Oct. 2.
“We said all along after the loss to St. Francis that if we learn from that and won the rest of our games, we could still accomplish our goals,” Palka said. “The kids hated the feeling of losing and we became a more driven team.”
Missler savored the victory over Central, a team that Whitmer has had trouble with in the past.
“After the St. Francis game, it was demoralizing,” he said. “We came back against Clay the following week, and we felt we could beat Central. We played very well and were able to come away with a victory.”
Kennedy felt that the game against the Irish showed that there is no limit to how good the Panthers can be when they put their minds to it.
“We faced a great Central defense, and we had two really big plays offensively,” Kennedy said. “What many people do not realize is that one of those plays went 99 yards. I think that speaks volumes about what our offense can do when we execute properly.”
After taking care of business against Bowsher, a 64-13 victory over the Rebels, Whitmer has just one hurdle left in league play.
“Our team is working hard, and we have ingrained in these kids to not look ahead,” Palka said.
The Panthers may be focused on this last game before the state playoffs start, but the team has certainly had thoughts about what it would mean to capture that elusive first league championship.
“To bring home a title would be huge,” Palka said. “To win that first City League championship, if we are fortunate enough to do it, would be so big for us, the program and the Whitmer community.”

Veteran theater director Jennifer Rockwood handpicked a fantastic cast that she’s absolutely in love with for the farcical murder mystery “Murder Among Friends,” opening Nov. 6 at the Village Players Theater.
Rockwood, who has directed plays for UT and the Toledo Repertoire Theatre, among others, is returning to directing after taking a four-year break from theater.
She is director of the first-year experience at UT, working to help freshman students transition from high school to college. Before that, she taught theater for 23 years.

She is still interested in video and TV locally and does freelance work.
The cast includes Rockwood alums, John Meadows, Jim Norman, Jennifer Lake, Kate Abu-Absi, Bill Lancz and Village Players Theater alumnus Matt Black.
“I made some phone calls. Some of my fans came back,” she said. “Working with students, you really have to teach them … A really good actor takes direction and listens and is malleable. They can turn into different things.”
One good thing about Rockwood’s casting is that her actors have excellent timing and improvisational and comedic skills as well, Meadows said. He is returning to stage acting after doing film work for the past 14 years.
Norman, who has been in show business for 30 years, is working with many old friends in new roles.
“They’re such good actors; the characters are all totally different,” he said. “Each production brings its own nuances.”
The Village Players formed in Ottawa Hills and are in their 53rd season, said president of the board Laura Hansen.
“This place has become family,” she said.
Black has not worked with Rockwood before, but has been involved with the Village Players. He came to the audition and fit the part perfectly, she said.
“I’m having a ball after being on hiatus for a while,” Rockwood said. “When directors love the actors and when actors have respect for the director, you can’t help but have a great show.”
Tickets for the show will go fast, she said. Many of the actors haven’t been on stage in a while and their fans want to see them.
The show runs Thursdays – Saturdays Nov. 6-21 at 8 p.m. with a 2 p.m. matinee Nov. 15 at the Village Players Theatre, 2740 Upton Ave. Tickets are $14 and $12 for students.
Call the reserve ticket line at (419) 472-6817.

Reporting by Jim and Becky Beard

Former Monkee Peter Tork is singing the blues — and loving it. The 67-year-old Washington, D.C. native — a sometime folk musician and pop star — performs Nov. 6 at Toledo Civic Theater. Tork received a clean bill of health after being treated with surgery and radiation for adenoid cystic carcinoma earlier this year.  He recently spoke with Toledo Free Press about life and the blues.
TFP: Let’s talk about the blues.

Peter Tork: What a good idea!  I’d love to talk about the blues! I’d rather play them, but …
TFP: What was your first experience with the blues?
PT: Oh, goodness. I’m not even sure I could remember. My parents mostly had classical music, but my mom was a great fan of jump from the ’40s, so some of that stuff was around. When my dad was playing records it was Beethoven and Mendelssohn; when my mom played records it was [breaks into song] “Is you is or is you ain’t my baby?”
TFP: So you have your mother to thank.
PT: I guess I do, yeah. Then rock and roll came along and I was in this little band with this guy. And it was a very folky kind of act, and one day the guy sang a blues note, and I went, “What was that?” He sang it again, and it was like, it’s not on the keys of the piano, so I couldn’t sing it.
TFP: It was between those keys.
PT: Yeah, it was in the cracks.
TFP: I understand you have a brother who is a painter.
PT: My brother Nick [Thorkelson] is a cartoonist and a comic book artist. He does some wonderful watercolors. He’s been doing cartoons since he was two.
TFP: Let’s talk about your recent illness. You are a cancer survivor.
PT: I know that you don’t get out of this alive. I do have a sense that I want to stick around and watch what’s gonna happen next. For my father, toward the end of his life, and my aunt, toward the end of her life, [living] was more of a chore than anything for them. They were ready to hang it up. I’m not there yet. As long as I’m not there, I’m gonna be disappointed if something takes me off. I’m not afraid to die. It’s a good thing since I’m gonna regardless.
TFP: Last words?
PT: Be a hero to yourself.
The Civic Theatre is located inside Erie Street Market, at 237 S Erie St. Opening the Nov. 6 show will be The Nu-Tones, who play original songs inspired by the British Invasion of the ’60s, and Elixer, an acoustic duo who plays Beatles music.  The show starts at 8 p.m. (doors open 7:30 p.m.). Tickets are $15 in advance or $20 at the door and are available for sale online at www.niteoutproductions.com, also at Culture Clash (4020 Secor Rd.) or Bailey’s Pizza (in Erie St. Market).

Voters have a number of methods to arrive at their selections when it comes to deciding who to support for mayor, Toledo City Council, and the TPS board of education.

One of the most widely-used– and might I say dangerous– is name recognition. Many people blindly vote for names they know without doing much, if any, homework.

The top six vote-getters in the September primary for city council were four incumbents, a former city councilman, and a candidate married to a Lucas County Commissioner.

Positions 7-23 were occupied by candidates who never have served our community in elected office before.

If voters are satisfied with the situation in city government, then the primary results spoke volumes. However, I suggest otherwise.

There were 17 other candidates who sought to make a difference in their community– and split the vote of citizens who want things done differently. That’s a new record for an at-large city council race, according to the Lucas County Board of Elections.

Next, there were three separate, but distinct, efforts to change the way things are. Take Back Toledo tried to remove Mayor Carty Finkbeiner from office. Nine is Fine attempted to reduce the size of city council. Teamwork Toledo hoped to ensure a coalition of fresh faces decided the future of the Glass City.

All three efforts met their own ends– the mayor decided not to run again, voters turned down a reduction in representation, and two independent candidates made it to the general election. However, one of those decided not to continue her campaign.

The challenges to the status quo have presented themselves– and they have been received by voters with limited success. Now we’re at the end of the road. If voters are going to take a stand for change, they will speak on Nov. 3 at the ballot box.

To that end, there are any number of ways voters can take that stand.

First, show up at the polls. Only 18 percent of Toledo’s registered voters bothered to exercise their right during the September primary. You don’t have a right to complain later if you don’t do your part and vote.

Next, do your homework. What do the candidates really stand for on the important issues? Have they stated publicly what they intend to do? Do they have the temperament to work well with eleven other council members? For incumbents, does their record reflect what they’re telling you? For first-time candidates, do they have a good grasp on how city government operates and are their proposals realistic and achievable?

Third, the strongest message can be sent with the way you vote.

The single candidate approach. You can hurt other candidates and help the one you support most by casting just one vote for one council candidate. That way your selection is not canceled out by votes for other people you may not know as well.

The anti-incumbent approach. Some voters have told me they only intend to cast votes for fresh faces, because they’re dissatisfied with the way things stand and the job their current elected council representatives have handled city government. They want new blood to take the city in a different direction.

The anti-tax approach. Some voters will choose candidates who have pledged to oppose any new taxes or fees. This one happens to be my personal favorite, because I’m the only candidate who has publicly stated he will vote against any tax increase, fee hike, or revenue enhancement. The facts are clear here: four incumbents recently voted to raise the trash tax, even though the effort failed. One or two of them later told the public at voter forums they were working to balance the budget without raising taxes.

The party line approach. Some voters are such diehard Democrats or staunch Republicans that they’ll support only those candidates endorsed by their favorite party. That could prove problematic for the Dems, because the party leadership endorsed all seven Democrats– and there are only six seats up for grabs! Fuzzy math, at best.

The comfort approach. With this voting method, citizens only cast ballots for those candidates they’re sure will do a good job. They may feel pressured to vote for six to fulfill some sort of obligation– but then turn around and cast ballots on faith and hope that the candidate will do the right thing. However, these citizens may cast ballots for two, three, maybe four people they have confidence in representing them well.

The good news is this: there will be two new faces on Toledo City Council following the election, because one current councilwoman is term-limited and a second chose not to seek re-election. However, only one will truly be new, if September’s leading vote-getter keeps his top dog status and returns to city council after a brief absence.

The future of our city is at stake. There are plenty of issues and candidates to decide– the future of gambling in Toledo and other cities, a new mayor, and half of city council.

Which will you choose? Professional politicians who will move forward the same-old, same-old political agenda that has led to the current sad state of affairs, aka the status quo. Or fresh faces with fresh ideas and a fresh approach who want to be true public servants.

The challenges are many, the differences between candidates are distinct. But only you as a voter can determine which approach is best. After all, you are the boss of a city government that’s supposed to be of the people, by the people, and for the people.

Kevin Milliken is an independent candidate for an at-large seat on Toledo City Council. His campaign Web site is www.millikenfortoledo.com.

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Hang on to your hats TV lovers, we are heading in to the Superbowl of the television world.  Its November sweeps.  The term may not mean much to you, but it strikes fear in television employees everywhere.  It is one of four times a year when the ‘gods’ of television ratings, Nielsen Media Research, attempt to track just how many viewers are watching a particular station at a particular time, in order to set advertising sales rates.  It is also why you notice local new channels up the ante by offering ‘special reports’ and ‘exclusive investigations.’

The four-week sweeps period can literally make or break a television program.  It ultimately tells us station how much they can charge for advertising.  So, needless to say, a lot of money (and sometimes jobs) rely on the results.

Here’s how it works in Toledo:
Nielsen sends out little packets referred to as ‘diaries’ out to ‘average’ television viewers. The viewers are asked to write down all television programs they watch. What those viewers say they watch is they broken down in to numbers.  That determines a program’s rating.  So, the more people who watch, the higher the rating, and the more money that is brought in to the station.

The sweeps period is also the reason you won’t see any reruns for a while.  Television networks usually pull out all the stops.  You’ll see ‘can’t miss’ specials, climactic new series episodes, special guest stars, and mega-hyped series premieres (I, personally, already have my DVR set for “V.”) And it is all in an effort to get you to tune in.

Of course, once you get hooked, November is over.  Then it is back to reruns and tired old holiday specials.  December is pretty much a let down after TV pulls out all the stops for November.  But then again, the rulers of television land need to rest up and start plotting for their next round.  After all, sweeps hits again in February.

So, happy November sweeps to one and all.  May you remote control survive.

Events are subject to change.

HALLOWEEN

HalloWeekends: Cedar Point celebrates its 13th year of haunted houses, outdoor and indoor shows, scares for kids and, of course, rides that could scare the pants off most intrepid park-goers. Monsters parade down the midway at 4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Noon-midnight Oct. 31 and Nov. 1; 6 p.m.-midnight Oct. 30; 1 Cedar Point Dr., Sandusky. $20-$45. (419) 627-2350 or www.cedarpoint.com.

Fall Festival: This autumn-focused site offers corn mazes (including one representing SpongeBob SquarePants), farm animal tours (weekends only), a 10-acre pumpkin patch and activities ranging from water balloon fights and corn cannons to train and pony rides. 4 p.m.-dark weekdays, 10 a.m.-dark weekends, Country Lane Tree Farm, 3525 N. Bolander Road, Genoa. $1-$15, based on activities. (419) 461-1298.

> The Haunted Tree Maze is open Saturdays in October only, with little-kid frights before dusk and darker thrills afterward, until 10.

> Flashlight corn maze: BYOO (Bring your own Off … and flashlights) to try your nighttime navigational skills in this labyrinth. 9 p.m.-midnight Oct. 31; flashlights and insect repellent recommended.

> Safe Halloween Nite Trick or Treating: Kids will get glowing necklaces and be challenged to find all the treat stations in one of the farm’s corn mazes. 6-8 p.m. Oct. 31, $4.

Fleitz Pumpkin Farm corn mazes: Warm up with the 1-acre version, then attempt the 5-acre maze. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. through Oct. 31, 7133 Seaman Road, Oregon. $1-$2 mazes; $1 hayrides. (419) 836-7613

Terror Town: Four attractions (House of the Dead, the Asylum, Toxic Terror 3D and the Last Ride); plus concerts by the Nightmare Alice Cooper tribute band Oct. 31. 8-midnight Fridays and Saturdays, 8-10 p.m. Sundays through October, Lucas County Fairgrounds, 1406 Key St., Maumee. $2-$25.

Haunted Hydro: 7-11:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 7-10:30 p.m. Sundays in October. 1333 Tiffin St., Fremont. $10-$20. (419) 332-7380.

Butterfly House Corn Maze: This 16-acre maze will corn-found the most able navigator. 6 p.m.-midnight Fridays, noon-midnight Saturdays and noon-8 Sundays through Oct. 31, 11455 Obee Rd., Whitehouse. $6-$8. (419) 877-2733 or www.whitehousecornmaze.com.

Train of Terror and Haunted Engine House: Take the haunted A-train to see the specters at this locomotive-focused fright-fest. 8-11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays during October, 11600 County Road 99, Findlay. $6. (419) 423-2995 or www.nworrp.org/haunted.

Chainsaw Creek: Four houses @@ Circus of the Dead in 3-D; County Morgue, the Black Swam and the Asylum. Open till midnight Fridays and Saturdays in October. 5001 Monroe St., Sylvania Avenue side of Westfield Franklin Park. $10 a house, $20 for all 4.

Ghostly Manor Thrill Center: $6-$11 for the manor; $6-$15 for 1-3 movies in the XD theater; $5 admission, $1-$3 rentals in Skateworld. Noon-10 Sundays and noon-midnight Fridays and Saturdays through Nov. 2, 3319 Milan Road, Sandusky.

Scream Acres Haunted Cornfield: “Learn to fear the dark” at this attraction, featuring graveyards, haunted hearses and other accoutrements of death and all the crazy characters associated with Halloween. 7-10 p.m. Fridays, 3-10 p.m. Saturdays and 3 p.m. Sundays through Nov. 1, Leaders Family Farms, O-064 County Road 16, south of Route 24, Napoleon. $6-$16. (419) 599-1570 or www.screamacres.com.

Ghost Trek Walking Tour: Tread the streets and alleys of downtown Marietta looking for specters and their favorite haunts. 7 and 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays through October, from the fountain at Front and Greene streets. $10. (740) 373-5178 or www.mariettaohio.org.

Hell’s Gate Haunted Attraction: Two houses, Hell’s Gate and Pitch Black, will be haunted for your frightening. Proceeds will benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Northwest Ohio. 6-11 p.m. Oct. 31, 3025 Alexis Rd. (old Foodtown). $10. (661) 727-3261 or HellsGateHaunt.com.

Spooky Hayrides: Thirty-minute rides starting at 7 p.m. Oct. 31, Sweetapple Farms, routes 7 and 5550 across from Warren High School, Marietta. $5. (740) 373-5178 or www.mariettaohio.org.

Haunted Halloween Trains: Sip some cider, much some cookies and get haunted on the tracks. 1, 2:30, 4, 7 and 8:30 p.m. Oct. 31, and 1, 2:30 and 4 p.m. Nov. 1, Toledo, Lake Erie & Western Railway station, 49 N. Sixth St., Waterville. $10-$14; discounts for costumes and preregistration. (419) 878-2177, (866) 638-7246 or www.tlew.org.

Garrison Ghost Walk: Tour the Fort Meigs with 1812-style guides and “encounter the spookier side of the historic place.” Hour-long tours start 7-9 p.m. and depart every 15 minutes. Oct. 31, 29100 W. River Road, Perrysburg. $4-$8. Reservations: (800) 283-8916.

“The Rocky Horror Show”: A stranded couple seeks help from a questionable source @@ transvestite alien Dr. Frank N. Furter. 8 p.m. and midnight Oct. 31 and 3 p.m. Nov. 1, Croswell Opera House, 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian, Mich. $20-$25. (517) 264-7469 or www.croswell.org.

Imagination Station Trick or Treat: Visitors can wear costumes and trick or treat through the exhibits.10 a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 31, Imagination Station, 1 Discovery Way. $6.50-$8.50. (419) 244-2674 or imaginationstationtoledo.org.

Ghost Tours: Tempt the spirits by listening to stories those who lived and died in the Castle. 7, 8 and 9 p.m. Oct. 31, 418 Fourth St., Marietta. Ghost hunters also can take the Anchorage Ghost Tour, 8 p.m. Oct. 31 in Harmar village. Reservations: (740) 373-5178 or www.mariettaohio.org.

“The Moon Witch”: This program discusses lunar lore and facts, and participants will take a virtual trip to the moon’s surface. 1 p.m. Oct. 31, UT’s Ritter Planetarium, 2801 W. Bancroft St. $5-$6. (419) 530-4037 or (419) 530-2650.

Little Boo Bash: Children in second grade and younger can slide on their costumes and celebrate Halloween with arts, crafts, games and prizes. 11 a.m. Oct. 31, Toledo Lucas County Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St. Registration after Oct. 17: (419) 259-5231.

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.

> Tom Turner & Slow Burn: Oct. 31 (Halloween costumes welcome).

Read and Treat: Sixth-graders and younger kids who dare to read stories and wear their costumes will be treated. 2-4 p.m. Oct. 31, Toledo Lucas County Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St. (419) 259-5207.

Halloween Hoolie: Perhaps attendees can find out what a “hoolie” is at this costumes-rewarded party featuring live music. 6 p.m. Oct. 31, Claddagh Irish Pub, Sylvania Avenue side of Westfield Franklin Park, 5001 Monroe St. (419) 472-1414.

Halloween Bash: Costumes are optional at this party for students 15-18. 7:30-11:30 p.m. Oct. 31, American Care Givers, 6202 Trust Dr., Holland. $6. (419) 724-0888.

Halloween Fantasy Ball: Dinner and dancing will take on a new meaning at this ghoul’s holiday event. Rates range from $169 (for the ball and a double room) to $229, which also includes brunch, a parade and dinner tickets. 9 p.m. Oct. 31, Holiday Inn French Quarter, 10630 Fremont Pike, Perrysburg. (734) 856-8963 or thehauntedhydro.com/social.htm.

Andersons’ Trick or Treat: Kids are welcome to try out their costumes and collect goodies. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 31, 530 Illinois Ave., Maumee, (419) 891-2700.

Trick or Treat & Pumpkin Walk: Kids and others can decorate pumpkins for prizes, try the chili cook-off entries and admire downtown businesses’ decorated windows. 6-8 p.m. Oct. 31, downtown Whitehouse and Whitehouse Park, between St. Louis Avenue and Waterville Street. (419) 877-2747.

Halloween at the Museum: Mummies, fortunetellers and other characters will haunt the TMA’s galleries as costumed staff re-create works of art and visitors take part in a scavenger hunt. Storybook hero or heroine costumes are welcome. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 31, 2445 Monroe St. (419) 255-8000 or toledomuseum.org.

Halloween Party: Kentucky Chrome will rock the crowd. Oct. 31, Blarney Irish Pub, 601 Monroe St. (419) 418-2339 or www.theblarneyirishpub.com.

FALL FUN

A Million Thanks: Children 10 and younger are invited to pick up stationery and write letters to express their gratitude to servicemen and –women in honor of Veterans Day. 4-5 p.m. Nov. 2, Mott Branch Library, 1085 Dorr St. (419) 259-5230 or www.amillionthanks.org.

Lil’ Timbers Kids Klub: Little ones can get in the fall spirit by decorating caramel apples. 1-2 p.m. Nov. 7, Lake District kiosk, Shops at Fallen Timbers, 3100 Main St., Maumee. (419) 878-6255.

Stars & Stripes Veterans Day Celebration: Servicemen and –women past and present will be honored at this patriotic procession. 1 p.m. Nov. 8, downtown Perrysburg. (419) 873-2787 or www.downtownperrysburg.org.

Season of the Squirrel: Learn about these rascally neighbors, then hit the trail to observe their habits and habitats. 1-2 p.m. Nov. 14, Metz Visitor Center, Wildwood Preserve Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. Reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

Fall Craft Show: A variety of handmade crafts, fall and holiday items will be for sale, raffles will be held and homemade soups, sandwiches and more will be sold for lunch. 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Nov. 14, St. Michael Catholic School gym, 510 W. Front St., Monroe, Mich. (734) 241-8645.

Happily Appley: This apple-themed harvest celebration will feature stories, crafts, refreshments and more. 7 p.m. Nov. 16, Reynolds Corners Branch Library, 4833 Dorr St. Registration: (419) 259-5303. www.toledolibrary.org.

THANKSGIVING

Be Thankful: Teens who submit lists of what they are thankful for or write letters to thank someone for something will be entered in a drawing. Noon-8 Nov. 3, Sanger Branch Library, 3030 W. Central Ave. (419) 259-5370.

Get Ready for Thanksgiving: Kids 10 and younger can stop in to make a craft for the holiday. 3:30-4:30 p.m. Nov. 3, Lagrange Branch Library, 3422 Lagrange St. (419) 259-5280.

Who You Callin’ a Turkey? Elementary-school-aged kids can find out what a turkey walk is. 4-5 p.m. Nov. 4, Locke Branch Library, 703 Miami St. (419) 259-5310.

Thankful for What You Have: A dozen children can celebrate Thanksgiving, circa 1945. 10-11 a.m. Nov. 7, Wildwood Preserve Metropark’s manor house, 5100 W. Central Ave. $5. Reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE …

Cabin Cookie Baking: Participants will prepare for the holiday season by baking using a wood-fired stove. 1:30-3:30 p.m. Nov. 7, White Star Park’s Log Cabin, 901 S. Main St., Gibsonburg. $5. Registration is required: (888) 200-5577.

Holiday Happening: Women are invited for fellowship, crafts and music. Breakfast and lunch are included. 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Nov. 7, Garden Park Christian Church, 8605 Salisbury Road, Monclova. $20. Register by Oct. 25: (419) 868-7700, gardenpark.org or kendramizer@gardenpark.org.

Winter Bazaar: Holiday present ideas will be on display and kids can get their faces painted. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 14, St. Patrick of Heatherdowns Catholic Church, 4201 Heatherdowns Blvd. www.toledostpats.org.

Holiday Craft & Gift Marketplace: Exhibitors will highlight holiday art and crafts, collectibles, antiques and gifts. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Nov. 14 and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 15, Lucas County Recreation Center, 2901 Key St., Maumee. $4. (419) 213-2206 or (419) 436-1457.

“The Nutcracker” in a Nutshell: Children in fifth grade and younger can learn about the ballet’s story and basic moves and try a related craft. 10:30 a.m. Nov. 14, Holland Branch Library, 1032 S. McCord Road, Holland. Registration after Nov. 2: (419) 259-5240.

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.

Toledo Farmers’ Market: Find it fresh and local at this outdoor station, which has been around for 177 years. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays, 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.

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. 1-3 p.m. Saturdays, 3725 Williston Road, Northwood, (419) 698-8400. Nominal fees apply.

Blood drives: The Western Lake Erie Region of the American Red Cross will hold several drives this month. Starred drives indicate appointments are required. For more information or opportunities to donate, call (800) 448-3543 or visit www.givebloodtoday.org.

> 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 31, Fayette Church of Nazarene, 511 S. Fayette St., Fayette.

> 1-7 p.m. Nov. 4, Liberty Center High School, 103 W. Young St., Liberty Center.

> 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Nov. 5, Fifth-Third Bank, 1 SeaGate.

> 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Nov. 5, Oberhaus Park Pavilion, 700 block W. Maumee Ave., Napoleon.

> 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Nov. 7, Custar American Legion, N. Superior St., Custar.

> 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Nov. 9-11, BGSU Student Union.

> 11:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Nov. 9, Port Clinton Moose, 1105 N. Lakeshore, Port Clinton.

> 12:30-5:30 p.m. Nov. 9, Maumee Eagles, 2301 Detroit Ave., Maumee.

> Noon-5 Wesley Lodge, 510 Central Ave., Lakeside.

> 12:30-6:30 p.m. Nov. 10, St. Anthony Church & School, 4605 St. Anthony, Temperance, Mich.

> 6 a.m.-noon Nov. 12, Fulton County Health Center, 725 S. Shoop Ave., Wauseon.

> 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Nov. 13, UT ROTC, 2801 W. Bancroft St.

> 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Nov. 14, Sylvania Senior Center, 7140 Sylvania Ave., Sylvania.

Eberly Center Brown Bag Seminars: A series of lunchtime conversations and presentations about topics of interest to women and others. 12:30 p.m. Thursdays at UT’s Catherine S. Eberly Center for Women, 2801 W. Bancroft St., Tucker Hall Room 180, off Campus Road. (419) 530-8570.

> “Women and Fair Trade,” by Dianne Westhovan and Joanie Kimble, owners of Georgette’s Grounds and Gifts, Nov. 5.

> “Women and Heart Disease: There is a Difference” with Dr. Donna Woodson, director of UT’s Women’s Health Center, at Mulford Library Cafe, Health Science Campus, Library Circle off Arlington Avenue, Nov 12.

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, such as tealeaf readings by Retha Martin. 1-3 p.m. Nov. 4, Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center, Buckland Avenue, Fremont. $12-$20. Reservations required: (419) 332-2081, ext. 38, or (800) 998-7737.

Metroparks Seniors: Nature’s Nursery. Staff members from the wildlife rehabilitation center will offer a closer peek at the animals. For those 60 and older. 2-3:30 p.m. Nov. 4, Oak Openings Preserve Metropark lodge, 4139 Girdham Road off Route 2, Swanton. $2. Reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

The Battle of the Wabash: Also known as St. Clair’s defeat, this fight resulted in the greatest loss of American forces against the Indians in the Army’s history. Author Nancy Knapke will relate the facts of this battle, which eventually led to the Battle of Fallen Timbers. 7 p.m. Nov. 4, Wolcott Museum Complex church, 1031 River Road, Maumee. (419) 259-5360.

Browning Lunch & Learn: Lucy Shelton Caswell, curator of Ohio State University’s Cartoon Research Library & Museum, will discuss the center’s mission. 12:30 p.m. Nov. 5, Browning Masonic Community, 8883 Browning Dr., Waterville. $5 for lunch. (419) 878-4055.

Dancing with the HR Stars: The Toledo Human Resources Association Conference will feature Judson Laipply, creator of “Evolution of Dance” videos, as comedic keynote speaker. Other highlights will be discussions of leadership, organizational change and influence. 8:30 a.m.-4:45 p.m. Nov. 5, Hilton Garden Inn, 6165 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg. $50-$180. Registration: (419) 885-8505, (800) 882-7042 or www.employersassociation.com.

Sweet Success Gala: This fundraiser for Diabetes Youth Services will feature gourmet grazing stations and silent and live auctions. 6:30-10 p.m. Nov. 6, Carranor Hunt & Polo Club, 502 E. Second St., Perrysburg. $75. (419) 887-8739 or www.dys4kids.org.

FOCUS Fall Event: This event, a fundraiser for the Family Outreach Community United Services, will feature a casino night theme. 6:30-10:30 p.m. Nov. 6, Sullivan Center, 2049 Parkside Blvd. $50. (419) 244-2175, ext. 140.

Tour Toledo Preview of Homes: The city will highlight new dwellings in developing areas as part of the Dream to Own program, which offers down-payment assistance and other funding for first-time buyers. Noon-6 Nov. 6-8, 120 Clifton Road, 3634 Willow Run and 3660 Burton Ave. (419) 245-1417.

Vendor Extravaganza: Retailers will include Pampered Chef, Tastefully Simple, Longaberger, Silpada, Tupperware and more, all offering their wares for the holidays. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 7, Northwood Middle School, 500 Lemoyne Road, Northwood. (419) 691-4321.

The World at War: Gaming experts will help visitors re-enact battles from War of 1812 and world wars I and II in miniature, no experience is required. 10 a.m. -4 p.m. Nov. 7, Fort Meigs conference center, 29100 W. River Road, Perrysburg. (419) 874-4121, (800) 283-8916 or www.fortmeigs.org.

Mobile Meals of Toledo Wine Gala: This event aims to go beyond grazing stations to a sit-down dual-entree dinner with wine, plus a live band for dancing and live and silent auctions. 6 p.m.-midnight Nov. 7, Stranahan Theater Great Hall, 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd. $125. (419) 381-8851 or (419) 255-7806.

GED preparation class orientation session: Area residents can enhance basic skills in English or math or improve employment skills. 11 a.m. Nov. 7 and 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.

Bunco Party: Roll the dice and try your luck (and some lunch) at this event for women. Prizes will be awarded. No experience necessary. 1:30-6 p.m. Nov. 8, 2439 Tremainsville Hall. $20. Registration: (419) 787-3365 or www.BuncoClub.net.

Food Expo & Women’s Show: Vendors will share and sell their foodstuffs and health, beauty and home improvement innovations. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Nov. 7 and 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 8, SeaGate Convention Centre, 401 Jefferson Ave. $6. (419) 255-3300; (800) 243-4667.

Toledo Relay for Life kickoff: This annual American Cancer Society event will light it up, promising more birthdays and more candles. 1-4 p.m. Nov. 8, Westgate parking lot (near Costco), 3405 W. Central Ave. (888) 227-6446, ext. 5206.

A Woman’s Gala: Gift ideas, food and fashion demonstrations and wine tastings are planned. Area artists and merchants will offer their goods, too. 1-4 p.m. Nov. 8, Gordon Design Gallery, 6418 Fremont Pike, Perrysburg. (419) 837-2221.

“Extreme Makeover Home Edition” @@ One Year Later with Jackie Frisch: This “ordained minister will share her amazing story of how a national primetime TV show blessed her family of 13. 7 p.m. Nov. 10, Washington Branch Library, 5560 Harvest Lane. (419) 259-5207.

Ladies’ Night: Three jewelry artists will be on hand to adorn and bedeck fans of gems, beads and all things sparkly. 6-8 p.m. Nov. 10, Beeker’s General Store, 226 E. Front St., Pemberville. (419) 287-3274.

Tai Chi: Jan Gilson will offer a hands-on introduction to this exercise that can reduce stress, keep joints working smoothly and improve flexibility. Join 6:30-8 p.m. Nov. 10 and 17, Sanger Branch Library, 3030 W. Central Ave. Registration: (419) 259-5295.

Ask an Attorney: Specialists in patents, trademarks and copyright will answer questions and “provide an overview of intellectual property.” Brent L. Bond of MacMillan, Sobanski and Todd, 7-8:30 p.m. Nov. 10, Searles Conference Room, Toledo Lucas County Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St. (419) 259-5209.

Book sale: The Friends of Way Public Library will hold a used book sale to benefit the library’s programs and services. 3-7 p.m. Nov. 12, library’s lower level gallery, 101 E. Indiana Ave., Perrysburg. (419) 874-3135 or www.waylibrary.info.

Resume Review: Participants will get a tutorial on resumes and cover letters with advice about online resume sites, and those who bring their resumes on flash drives or rewritable discs will have the documents reviewed and rewritten by Job Solutions of Wood County. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Nov. 12, Way Public Library technology lab, 101 E. Indiana Ave., Perrysburg. Registration: (419) 874-3135, ext. 134. www.waylibrary.info.

Historical Michigan Train Series: The Ragweed Railway. Local historian and author Trudy Urbani will discuss this line, which delivered milk and passengers in southeast Michigan. 7 p.m. Nov. 12, Bedford Branch Library, 8575 Jackman Road, Temperance, Mich. (734) 847-6747.

Public Star Watch: A lecture about astronomy will be followed by a dark-sky viewing from deep in a meadow. Telescopes are welcome. 7-9 p.m. Nov. 13, Oak Openings Preserve Metropark lodge, 4139 Girdham Road off Route 2, Swanton. $5. Reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

Bird Hikes for Adults: Fans of the flighted will explore the winged world. Binoculars and bird guides welcome. 8:30-10:30 a.m. Nov. 14, Buehner Center porch, Oak Openings Preserve Metropark, 4139 Girdham Road off Route 2, Swanton. (419) 826-6463.

Church Bazaar: Crafts, a variety of vendors, collectibles and a bake sale will be available. The church Men’s Group will provide lunch, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Proceeds will benefit local missions. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 14, First United Methodist Church, 7000 Erie St., Sylvania. (419) 885-2023.

Meet the author: Local author Dr. James Raven will sign copies of his book, “The Artist’s Eye.” 1 p.m. Nov. 14, Borders, Sylvania Avenue side of Westfield Franklin Park, 5001 Monroe St.

Attracting Winter Birds to Your Backyard: Participants will learn the basics of feeding stations. 1-2:30 p.m. Nov. 15, Metroparks Hall, Wildwood Preserve Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. $2. Reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

Yoga for Food: Zen in the District yoga studio will introduce visitors to the practice in exchange for a donation to the SeaGate Food Bank. 9-11:30 a.m. Nov. 15, Park Lane Luxury Apartments, 142 23rd St. $10 or a bag of groceries. (419) 255-4455 or (419) 244-4936.

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 or toledomuseum.org.

> “Cottier Studios: Inspired by TMA.” Artist Page Cottier has used the TMA collection as a springboard to realistic detail. This exhibition will feature work by her students. Through Nov. 15, Community Gallery.

> “Northwest Ohio Camera Club Council: The World Up Close.” Participating photographers used composition, point of view and other techniques to focus on themes of intimacy and smallness, Through Nov. 15, Community Galleries.

> “LitGraphic: The World of the Graphic Novel.” “Sequential imagery,” or pictures linked by a continuing story, has been around for centuries, but today’s graphic novelists grasp and display a full range of emotion, ideas and information. Through Jan. 3, Canaday Gallery.

> “Storybook Stars: Award Winning Illustrations from the Mazza Collection.” Dozens of artworks by luminaries in kiddie lit, from Maurice Sendak and Eric Carle to Arnold Lobel and Dr. Seuss, will be on display. Through Jan. 31, Works on Paper Galleries.

> “Word Play”: Works that use language to invoke imagery will be highlighted. Through Feb. 7, Gallery 18.

> “Paris: City of Art.” UT art history students selected work from TMA’s collection depicting the City of Light and creations of the city’s artists. Nov. 6-March 14, Hitchcock and Stevens 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.

> “Photography @@ The First 100 Years”: This historical survey of photographs from roughly the early 1840s to 1940 is taken from the DIA’s collection and includes well-known works by Julia Margaret Cameron, Walker Evans, Dorothea Lange, Alfred Stieglitz and Paul Strand. Through Jan. 3.

> “Avedon Fashion Photographs, 1944-2000”: A comprehensive study of Richard Avedon’s photographs that represent the evolution of his style. Included are shots of celebrities, including Elizabeth Taylor and Barbara Streisand, and models such as Kate Moss and Detroit-native Donyale Luna. Through Jan. 17; $6-$12.

“Vessels”: These useful objects can also be among the most beautiful and diverse media artists produce. The interpretations of a dozen artists will be on display. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays and 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturdays through Oct. 31, Walter E. Terhune Gallery, Owens Community College, 30335 Oregon Road, Perrysburg. (567) 661-2721 or www.owens.edu.

“Adventures With Louise Brooks”: The 1926 silent film “It’s the Old Army Game,” starring Brooks and W.C. Fields, is part of this exhibition, which also includes photos and posters. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Wednesdays-Thursday and 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturdays through Oct. 31, Gallery Outside, Center for Fine and Performing Arts, Owens Community College, 30335 Oregon Road, Perrysburg. (800) 466-9367, ext. 2721, or (567) 662-2721.

“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 through Nov. 1; 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 through Nov. 1; 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 through Nov. 1; National Center for Nature Photography, Secor Metropark, 10000 W. Central Ave., Berkey. (419) 407-9757.

“Contemporary India”: Work by the subcontinent’s artists aims to explore “current issues of cultural tradition and external influence.” 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesdays-Wednesdays and Fridays-Saturdays; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and 6-9 p.m. Thursdays; and 1-4 p.m. Sundays through Nov. 13 (closed Nov. 11), Willard Wankelman Gallery, BGSU’s School of Art, Fine Arts Center, between Ridge and Wooster streets, Bowling Green. (419) 372-8525.

“The Poetic Dialogue”: This exhibition is the result of collaboration between 31 artist-and-poet pairs. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesdays-Wednesdays and Fridays-Saturdays; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and 6-9 p.m. Thursdays; and 1-4 p.m. Sundays through Nov. 19 (closed Nov. 11), Dorothy Uber Bryan Gallery, BGSU’s School of Art, Fine Arts Center, between Ridge and Wooster streets, Bowling Green. (419) 372-8525.

“Feed the Soul @@ Feed the Hungry”: This exhibit will feature a number of artists, including those with the “Empty Bowl” exhibition, with the goal of stocking local food pantries with nonperishable foods, canned goods and toiletries donated by visitors. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturdays and 1-4 p.m. Sundays through Nov. 15, Flatlanders Art Galleries, 11993 E. Route 223, Blissfield, Mich. www.flatlandersculpture.com or (517) 486-4591.

“Knuffle Funny: The Art and Whimsy of Mo Willems.” More than 60 original works by the award-winning creator of the Pigeon, Elephant & Piggie and “Knuffle Bunny” will be on display. Noon-8:30 Mondays-Tuesdays and 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Wednesdays-Saturdays through Dec. 26, second floor gallery, Toledo Lucas County Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St. (419) 259-5207.

“Variety Show”: This exhibition highlights “diversity of artistic styles and media.” 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays and noon-4 Saturdays through Jan. 2, Space 237, 237 N. Michigan St. (419) 255-5117 or www.space237.com.

“White House Pets: Ambassadors at Large.” Bo may be the latest, but there’s a long history of pets both mundane and exotic in the presidential manor. Along with “White House Horses” exhibit. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays and noon-5 Sundays through Jan. 10, Hayes Museum, Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center, Spiegel Grove, Hayes and Buckland avenues, Fremont. (419) 332-2081, (800) 998-7737, www.rbhayes.org.

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 or toledomuseum.org.

> “Mystery in the Museum”: 2 p.m. Oct. 31.

> Museum highlights: 2 p.m. Nov. 1.

> Chihuly exhibition: 7 p.m. Nov. 6; 2 p.m. Nov. 7; 2:30 and 3:30 p.m. Nov. 8, Glass Pavilion.

> “LitGraphic” exhibition: 7 p.m. Nov. 13; 2 p.m. Nov. 14; 2:30 and 3:30 p.m. Nov. 15.

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. toledomuseum.org

> Pumpkins: 2 and 4 p.m. Oct. 31 and Nov. 7.

> Hot glass flowers: 6, 7 and 8 p.m. Nov. 6.

> Flame-worked Marbles: 6, 7 and 8 p.m. Nov. 6.

> Glass Icicles: 10 and 11 a.m. and noon Nov. 7.

> Glass Flowers: 6, 7 and 8 p.m. Nov. 13; 2 and 4 p.m. Nov. 14.

Arts Day: Bowsher High School will host a variety of arts and crafts vendors, plus pancakes will be served until 11:30, and student groups will perform between 10 and 2. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 31, Bowsher High School. (419) 671-2000.

ARTalk: Maria Tomasula, associate professor of painting at the University of Notre Dame, will discuss her recent work, which features themes of mortality, regeneration and human relations. 5-6 p.m. Nov. 2, Room 1101, BGSU’s School of Art, Fine Arts Center, between Ridge and Wooster streets, Bowling Green. (419) 372-9395.

Celebrating Nature Through Photography contest reception: The Naturalists’ Camera Club of Toledo will give a presentation and all entries in this competition will be on display. 5-8 p.m. Nov. 6, National Center for Nature Photography, Secor Metropark, 10000 W. Central Ave., Berkey. (419) 829-2761.

ArtWalk: Retailers will display artists’ work for strolling visitors to peruse. 5-9 p.m. Nov. 6, downtown Findlay. (419) 422-4624 or artspartnership.com.

“The Art of Books and the Written Word”: Larry Nichols, the William Hutton curator of European and American painting and sculpture before 1900, will lead this gallery talk. 7:30 p.m. Nov. 6, TMA, 2445 Monroe St. (419) 255-8000 or toledomuseum.org.

TMA Workshops: No experience is necessary for these three-hour classes for those 14 and older. 2445 Monroe St. $65. Register: (419) 254-5080. www.toledomuseum.org.

> Tree earrings: Jane Lamanna will help visitors make tree earrings for the holidays using beads and wire. 6-9 p.m. Nov. 6, metalsmithing studio.

> Eat Your Words: Dan Barczak will lead participants in making steel dishes with stories. 6-9 p.m. Nov. 13, blacksmithing studio.

“Chihuly Toledo!” tour: This tour of the glass master’s exhibition is a pilot program between the TMA and Alzheimer’s Association Northwest Ohio Chapter that offers gallery peeks for those with mild memory loss and their companions. 1:30 p.m. Nov. 7, Parkwood entrance to TMA’s Glass Pavilion, 2445 Monroe St. Registration: (419) 537-1999.

Collingwood Craft Party: Visitors can share ideas and techniques, learn new crafts and be inspired. Scrapbooking, quilting, needle- and beadwork are among the skills to be demonstrated. 10 a.m. Nov. 7, Collingwood Arts Center, 2413 Collingwood Blvd. $10. (419) 244-2787 or www.collingwoodartscenter.org.

Play on Words: This TMA hands-on activity has amateur artists using varied materials and words and letters to create masterpieces. 2-4 p.m. Nov. 8, Libbey Court, 2445 Monroe St. (419) 255-8000 or toledomuseum.org.

“The Art of Punishment: The Spectacle of the Body on the Streets of Constantinople.” A scholar of Byzantine art history, Galina Tirnanic will give this ARTalk. 6-7 p.m. Nov. 9, Fine Arts Center Room 1101, BGSU’s School of Art, between Ridge and Wooster streets, Bowling Green. (419) 372-8533.

Local glass artists: Workers in silicon-based media will be spotlighted. 7-10 p.m., TMA Glass Pavilion hot shop, 2445 Monroe St. (419) 255-8000.

> Paul Runde will demonstrate blown and sculpted works. Nov. 13.

Handmade Holidays: Creative types 10 and older of all skill levels can create unique presents for the people on their gift-giving lists. 4-6 p.m., TMA, 2445 Monroe St. $30. Register: (419) 254-5080. www.toledomuseum.org.

> Felt purse, Nov. 14.

“Panel to Panel”: Historian Jim Beard’s presentation will go from first days of the comic book in the 1900s to the rise of the graphic novel. 7:30 p.m. Nov. 13, TMA’s Little Theater, 2445 Monroe St. (419) 255-8000 or toledomuseum.org.

FAMILY TIME

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.

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.

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

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. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays and noon-4 p.m. weekends through October, Kimble’s Landing, Providence Metropark, 13827 U.S. Route 24 West (at Route 578), Grand Rapids. Boat tickets: $4-$6.

“Ceramics Illuminated”: An exhibition of ceramics that, when the lights go on, reveal incredible depth and detail. 1-4 p.m. weekends or by appointment through Oct. 31, The Blair Museum of Lithophanes, Toledo Botanical Garden, 5403 Elmer Dr. (419) 536-5588.

Serial Readers, Cereal Eaters Book Club: Fourth-, fifth- and sixth-graders can bring their cereal bowls for a bite and a read. 3:30-4:30 p.m. Thursdays through Nov. 19, Sanger Branch, 3030 W. Central Ave. Registration: (419) 259-5370.

Tale Trekkers: This book club for first-, second- and third-graders will introduce fairy tales from around the world. 4:15-5:15 p.m. Mondays through Nov. 23, Waterville Branch Library, 800 Michigan Ave., Waterville. (419) 259-5207 or www.toledolibrary.org.

Knitwits: Beginners can learn to knit by making a washcloth; others can bring their projects and knowledge to share. 2-3 p.m. Tuesdays through Dec. 8, Heatherdowns Branch Library, 3265 Glanzman Road. (419) 259-5270.

Saturday Chess Players: Players 12 and younger of any skill level can practice basic moves and learn some advanced strategy. 9-11 a.m., through Dec. 26, children’s library, Toledo Lucas County Main Library, 325 Michigan St. (419) 259-5207.

“Batman at 70”: An exhibition of vintage comics and collectables, a re-creation of the Bat Cave and a history of amazing bat-gadgets over the decades will mark the start of the Dark Knight’s seventh decade. Noon-8:30 p.m. Mondays-Tuesdays and 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Wednesdays-Saturdays through the end of the year, Toledo Lucas County Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St. (419) 259-5207 or toledolibrary.org.

Circus! exhibition: Visitors can walk the high wire, learn to juggle or spring up to a trapeze bar and learn the science behind the circus’ wonders in 23 interactive exhibits. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays and noon-5 Sundays, through Jan. 3, Imagination Station, 1 Discovery Way. $6.50-$8.50. (419) 244-2674 or imaginationstationtoledo.org.

Lego Castle Adventure: Fans of these colorful bricks can immerse themselves in a world of them. Kids and families can explore, build and play in a castle and grounds entirely composed of Lego. Exhibit: 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. daily through Jan. 3 (closed Nov. 26 and Dec. 25), Henry Ford Museum, 20900 Oakwood Blvd., Dearborn, Mich. $11-$15, plus $5 parking. (313) 982-6001, (800) 835-5237 or www.thehenryford.org.

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.

> African Mud Cloth Painting: Nov. 1, 3, 5.

> Color Kaleidoscopes: Nov. 8, 10, 12.

> Pyramids & Palaces: Nov. 15, 17, 19.

In the Park After Dark: A naturalist will guide visitors on this exploration of nature at night. 7:30-8:30 p.m. Nov. 3, Swan Creek Preserve Metropark, Airport Highway parking lot. $5. Reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

National Sandwich Day: Stories and crafts are the appetizers for kids 10 and younger who can create their ideal sammies. 4 p.m. Nov. 3, Birmingham Branch Library, 203 Paine Ave. (419) 259-5210.

Toddler Trails: Children 18 months to 3 years old and their adults can go on outdoor nature adventures. 10-11 a.m. Nov. 4, Metz Visitor Center, Wildwood Preserve Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. $3. Reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

Horses from the Beginning to Now: Attendees can learn about the evolving relationship between horses and people and Wildwood’s equine past. 7-8:30 p.m. Nov. 5, Ward Pavilion, Wildwood Preserve Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. $5. Reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

Tea in the Solarium: Delicious sandwiches and desserts served in an elegant manner. Noon-3 Nov. 6, Wildwood Preserve Metropark’s manor house, 5100 W. Central Ave. $7. Prepaid reservations available, but not required: (419) 508-0951.

Number of the Day: 40! Children 3-6 can celebrate four decades of sunny days and friendly neighbors. 11 a.m. Nov. 7, Toledo Lucas County Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St. Registration: (419) 259-5231. toledolibrary.org.

Wee Workshop: Winter’s Coming, Let’s Get Ready! Children 3-5 and their adult companions will learn how the park’s residents prepare for the cold. 10-11:30 a.m. Nov. 7, Metroparks Hall, Wildwood Preserve Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. $5. Reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

American Girl Tea Party: Fans of this steeped-in-history dolls are invited to bring their favorites for a pour. 1:30 p.m. Nov. 7, Point Place Branch Library, 2727 117th St. Registration: (419) 259-5390.

Young People’s Concert: FMB Fever! Come and a look into the world of the marching band, featuring BGSU’s own Falcon Marching Band led by Dr. Carol Hayward. Plan to join the ranks of the band! 11 a.m. Nov. 7, Bryan Recital Hall. $1-$2. (419) 372-8171 or (800) 589-2224.

Black Holes: This production immerses audiences in animations of birth and death @@ of the universe, stars and galaxies. 7:30 p.m. Nov. 7, 14 and 21, Appold Planetarium, Lourdes College, 6832 Convent Blvd., Sylvania. $3-$4. Reservations: (419) 517-8897.

Helping Hands: Aid naturalists and land management staff in restoring natural areas to preserve rare and endangered plants.

> 2-4 p.m. Nov. 7, Buehner Center porch, Oak Openings Preserve Metropark, 4139 Girdham Road off Route 2, Swanton. (419) 826-6463.

> Noon-3 Nov. 14, Packer-Hammersmith Center, Pearson Metropark, 4600 Starr Ave., Oregon.

Feathers, Fur & Fun: An animal-themed story will be followed by introductions to some Nature’s Nursery neighbors.

> 10:30 a.m. Nov. 7, Holland Branch Library, 1032 S. McCord Road, Holland. Registration: (419) 259-5240.

> 2-2:45 p.m. Nov. 7, Sylvania Branch Library, 6749 Monroe St., Sylvania. Registration: (419) 882-2089.

> 4 p.m. Nov. 10, Birmingham Branch Library, 203 Paine Ave. (419) 259-5210.

All Saints Polka Mass and chicken dinner: Lunch will be served until the paprikas runs out. Drive-through carryouts will be available, too. Mass, 11 a.m.; dinner ($7-$9), noon-4, Nov. 8, 628 Lime City Road, Rossford. (419) 666-1393, ext. 101.

Homesteading: Visitors can try drop-spindle spinning to make thread for blankets, stocking hats and socks. 2-4 p.m. Nov. 8, Johlin Cabin, Pearson Metropark, 4600 Starr Ave., Oregon. Reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

Get Your Green On: A Healthy Home. These programs are aimed at getting parents and families interested in living a greener lifestyle. This last gathering will explore environmentally friendly cleaning products. 7-8 p.m. Nov. 9, Children’s Program Room, Children’s Library, Main Library, 325 Michigan St. Register: (419) 259-5209. www.toledolibrary.org.

College Admissions From the Inside Out: Participants can ask questions about campus visits, admission tests, applications, early decision and financial aid. 7-8 p.m. Nov. 9, Way Public Library lower level, 101 E. Indiana Ave., Perrysburg. (419) 874-3135 or www.waylibrary.info.

“Batman at 70”: Historian Jim Beard will host a “Dark Knight” video chat with comic book writer Greg Rucka. Features a companion exhibition. 6:30-8 p.m. Nov. 9, McMaster Center, Toledo Lucas County Main Library, 325 Michigan St. (419) 259-5207 or toledolibrary.org.

Drawing Fun: This story time will feature creative kids and drawing books to inspire visitors to make their own drawings. 4 p.m. Nov. 10, Kent Branch Library, 3101 Collingwood Blvd. (419) 259-5283.

Game Night: Visitors are invited to play Monopoly, Risk or another game with family and friends. 7-8 p.m. Nov. 10, Sanger Branch Library, 3030 W. Central Ave. (419) 259-5370.

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus: This three-ring spectacle takes things over the top, with the ringmaster and a clown competing for control of the magical top hat the controls the show. Tigers, elephants, aerialists, dogs and more will perform. 7 p.m. Nov. 11-13; 11 a.m., 3 and 7 p.m. Nov. 14; and 1 and 5 p.m. Nov. 15, Lucas County Arena, 500 Jefferson Ave. $11-$65. (419) 321-5007, (800) 745-3000 or www.lucascountyarena.com.

Game Day: Teens can play board games with friends. 4 p.m. Nov. 12, Maumee Branch Library, 501 River Road, Maumee. (419) 259-5360.

Lucky Charms: Teens and tweens are invited to prepare for Friday the 13th by designing a lucky stone. 4 p.m. Nov. 12, Birmingham Branch Library, 203 Paine Ave. (419) 259-5210.

“Diary of a Wimpy Kid”: Fans of Greg Heffley are invited for an afternoon of Wimpy Kid-inspired activities. 2-2:45 p.m. Nov. 14, Oregon Branch Library, 3340 Dustin Road, Oregon. Registration: (419) 259-5250.

MOVIES

Silver Screen Classics: Classic movies at classic prices. 1 p.m. Mondays, Showcase Cinemas Levis Commons, 2005 Hollenbeck Dr., Perrysburg. $2. (419) 891-5039.

> “Love Laughs at Andy Hardy,” Nov. 2.

> “The Little Princess,” Nov. 9.

> “Inspector General,” Nov. 16.

“March of the Penguins”: A year in the life of penguins struggling for survival in a harsh habitat and with unforgiving biological imperatives. 1:30 p.m. Nov. 1, Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty, Ann Arbor, Mich. Kids 12 and younger free; $7-$9. (734) 768-8397, (734) 668-8463 or www.michtheater.org.

“Rembrandt”: Charles Laughton portrays the artist in this 1936 film by Alexander Korda. Shown with “The Horse on the Merry-Go-Round.” 3 p.m. Nov. 1, Hanna Hall’s Gish Film Theater, East Wooster Street, Bowling Green. (419) 372-2719.

“Spend Sunday Afternoon with Cary Grant”: A different film from the suave legend’s career will be shown. 2 p.m. Way Public Library, 101 E. Indiana Ave., Perrysburg. (419) 874-3135 or www.waylibrary.info.

> “Big Brown Eyes,” Nov. 1.

> “Suspicion,” Nov. 8.

> “I Was a Male War Bride,” Nov. 15.

“Fully Awake: The Black Mountain College Experience.” This documentary looks at the educational style and significance of the experimental college based in North Carolina that fostered the beat poets and more. 7:30 p.m. Nov. 3, Hanna Hall’s Gish Film Theater, East Wooster Street, Bowling Green. (419) 372-2719.

Hillsong United: This popular Australian musical group’s concert from their church in Sydney will be broadcast with a live introduction by lead singer Joel Houston and concluded with the band’s documentary, “The I Heart Revolution: We’re All in This Together.” 7:30 p.m. Nov. 4, Maumee 18: Cinema de Lux, 1360 Conant St., Maumee. $15. (419) 891-5039.

Movie Madness: Film fans can get their fill of funny movies and popcorn. 3:45-4:30 p.m. Nov. 5, Heatherdowns Branch Library, 3265 Glanzman Road. (419) 259-5270.

“The Captive”: A schoolgirl tries to discover her identity after she is told she’s the daughter of activists who “disappeared” in the 1970s in Argentina. 7:30 p.m. Nov. 5, Hanna Hall’s Gish Film Theater, East Wooster Street, Bowling Green. (419) 372-2719.

“University, Inc.”: Filmmaker Kyle Henry will screen his documentary about the “corporatization” of the academy. Shown with “The Subtext of a Yale Education.” 7:30 p.m. Nov. 6, UT’s Center for Performing Arts Lab Theatre, Tower View Boulevard and West Campus Drive. $3. (419) 530-2452.

Midnight Movies: This late-night flick series takes a turn for the dark. Midnight, State Theater, 233 S. State St., Ann Arbor, Mich. $7-$9. (734) 761-8667.

> “A Clockwork Orange,” Nov. 7.

“Turandot”: A ruthless Chinese princess hates men so much that she has any suitor who can’t solve her riddles beheaded. Who could win her love? Broadcast live by New York’s Metropolitan Opera at 1 p.m. Nov. 7 ($15-$22); recorded encore, 6:30 p.m. Nov. 18 ($15-$18), Maumee 18: Cinema de Lux, 1360 Conant St., Maumee. (419) 891-5039.

“Twilight” Movie Mania: The vampire love story will be shown on a big screen, and games and door prizes will get fans ready for the next movie. 6:30 p.m. Nov. 9, Waterville Branch Library, 800 Michigan Ave., Waterville. (419) 878-3055.

“The Quorum”: Combining oral history and archival materials, this documentary features a New Orleans coffee house opened during the height of the civil rights battles. Because it was open to people of all racial backgrounds, it became a target of harassment and police raids. 7:30 p.m. Nov. 10, Hanna Hall’s Gish Film Theater, East Wooster Street, Bowling Green. (419) 372-2719.

“Aida”: This Egyptian love triangle by Verdi will be brought to life by New York’s Metropolitan Opera and broadcast across the country. 6:30 p.m. Nov. 11 (encore broadcast), Maumee 18: Cinema de Lux, 1360 Conant St., Maumee. $22. (419) 891-5039.

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.

> Halloween Party with Kentucky Chrome: Oct. 31.

> Jeff Stewart: Nov. 5.

> Jordan/Chris Brown duo: Nov. 6.

> True Brew: Nov. 7.

> Rick Whited: Nov. 12.

> The Dirty Girl Scouts: Nov. 13.

> Celtic Cross: Nov. 14.

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.

> Gin Bunny: Oct. 31.

> Russel Martin & Relics: Nov. 6.

> Crucial 420: Nov. 7.

> River Edge: Nov. 12.

> Ten Inch Willy: Nov. 13.

> Dave Carpenter & Jaeglers: Nov. 14.

Cla-Zel Theater: This venue has been rocking BGSU students (and others) for years. 127 N. Main St., Bowling Green. (419) 353-5000 or www.clazel.net.

> Lucciana Costa, indie singer/songwriter: 7 p.m. Nov. 6, $10-$12.

> Neko Case, alt-rock darling: 7 p.m. Nov. 7, $20-$25.

> Corey Smith with the Elms: 7 p.m. Nov. 11, $12-$15.

Degage Jazz Cafe: Signature drinks, such as pumpkin martinis, plus live local jazz performers. 301 River Road, Maumee. $5 Tuesdays-Thursdays. (419) 794-8205 or www.degagejazzcafe.com.

> Gunnar Mossblad & Friends: 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays.

> Gene Parker Trio: Wednesdays.

> Andre Wright Trio: Thursdays.

> Ramona Collins: Oct. 30-31, $10.

> Dick Lane: Nov. 6, $10.

> Mike Woody: Nov. 7, $10.

> Gunnar Mossblad: Nov. 13-14, $10.

Fat Fish Blue: Serving blues and similar sounds, as well as bayou-style grub. Levis Commons, 6140 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg. (419) 931-3474.

> East River Drive: 9:30 p.m. Oct. 31, Nov. 6; 9 p.m. Nov. 7, $2.

> Mudfoot and the Lost Soles: 9:30 p.m. Nov. 13, $2.

> Suburban Legend: 9 p.m. Nov. 14, $2.

Frankie’s: Toledo’s venue for rock. 308 Main St. (419) 693-5300 or www.FrankiesInnerCity.com.

> Gil Mantera’s Party Dream, Secret Swords, Pip Boys: 9 p.m. Oct. 31, $8-$10.

> (hed)p.e.: 7 p.m. Nov. 2, $13-$15.

> Mia Dyson, Steven Mullen & the Storm: 8 p.m. Nov. 5, $8-$10.

> Always Falling, Set It Off, First Kiss Denial: 5 p.m. Nov. 6, $6-$8.

> The New Collisions: 9 p.m. Nov. 6, $5-$7.

> All the Day Holiday: 6 p.m. Nov. 7, $6-$8.

> Dr. Manhattan: 9 p.m. Nov. 7, basement show.

> Flaw: 8 p.m. Nov. 9, $10-$13.

> Fiery Furnaces, Cryptacize: Noon Nov. 10, $13-$15.

> The Red Scare, Hazard Perry, the Tides, Faux Pas: 9 p.m. Nov. 12, $5-$7.

> Gwen Stacy, Ice Nine Kills, Stray From the Path, Once at War, They Speak of Saints: 4 p.m. Nov. 13, $8-$10.

> Jucifer, Peregrine, Megaton Hammer, Smoke Theory: 9 p.m. Nov. 14, $6-$8.

> Battle of the Bands: 4 p.m. Nov. 15, $8-$10.

Headliners: All ages, all genres are welcome. 4500 N. Detroit Ave. (419) 269-4500 or www.headlinerstoledo.com.

> Finch; BlesstheFall; Drop Dead, Gorgeous; Of Mice and Men; Let’s Get It: 6 p.m. Nov. 2, $13-$15.

> Chip Tha Ripper: 7 p.m. Nov. 7, $15-$18.

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.

> Tom Turner & Slow Burn: Oct. 31 (Halloween costumes welcome).

> The Real Magicians: 6 p.m. Nov. 5.

> It’s Essential: Nov. 6.

> John Barile: Nov. 7.

> Whiskey Dinner: 6 p.m. Nov. 11.

> Quick Trio: 6 p.m. Nov. 12.

> Swamp Kings: Nov. 13.

> Jeff Williams: Nov. 14.

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 St. at North Huron Street. $5-$7 cover. (419) 297-1943.

> Boogie Matrix Halloween party: Oct. 31.

> Toledo School for the Arts: 4 p.m. Nov. 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.

> Halloween Party: The Murphys and Toledo School for the Arts Jazz Combo, costumes welcome. Oct. 31.

> Toledo School for the Arts: 7 p.m. Nov. 12.

Omni: Toledo’s newest club is a venue for music (and music lovers) of all types. 2567 W. Bancroft St. (419) 474-1333.

> Thunderstruck (AC/DC tribute band): 7:30 p.m. Nov. 6, $7.

> Tesla: 7 p.m. Nov. 7, $24.

> Ozzmosis (Ozzy Osborne tribute) and Local Anesthetic: 7:30 p.m. Nov. 13, $7.

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.

Swig: This new restaurant/pub offers acoustic tunes weekly. 219 Louisiana Ave., Perrysburg. (419) 873-6223.

> Gregg Aranda, Oct. 31.

> Jeff Stewart, Nov. 6.

> Shane Piasecki, Nov. 7.

> Kyle White, Nov. 13.

> Gregg Aranda, Nov. 14.

> Chris Konop, Nov. 20.

Daughtry: The “American Idol” veteran has honed one of the show’s more successful careers post-elimination, with several No. 1 singles and two No. 1 albums. He and his band will be joined by Theory of a Deadman and Cavo. 7:30 p.m. Oct. 31, Lucas County Arena, 500 Jefferson Ave. $31.50-$41.50. (419) 321-5007, (800) 745-3000 or www.lucascountyarena.com.

Celtic Woman: The all-female vocal group performs modern and old-fashioned sounds based on ancient music. 7:30 p.m. Nov. 3, Stranahan Theater, 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd. $30-$60. (419) 381-8851.

O.A.R.: This band could inspire many to turn their cars around for this show, opened by Elmwood. 7 p.m. Nov. 3, UT’s Savage Arena, 2801 W. Bancroft St. $17.50-$32.50. (419) 530-4653.

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., Cloister, 2445 Monroe St. (419) 255-8000 or toledomuseum.org.

> Nov. 6: Ramona Collins (jazz).

The Boogie Woogie Kid: Pianist Matthew Ball has been described as a “rising giant” in the blues and boogie-woogie music scene. 7:30 p.m. Nov. 7, Pemberville Opera House, 115 Main St., Pemberville. $10. (419) 287-3274, (877) 287-4848 or carol@pembervilleoperahouse.org.

Trans-Siberian Orchestra: This rockin’ wintertime tradition is touring in support of its new album, “Night Castle.” Expect more than the usual light and sound show. 3 and 7:30 p.m. Nov. 8, Lucas County Arena, 500 Jefferson Ave. $35-$55. (419) 321-5007, (800) 745-3000 or www.lucascountyarena.com.

Faculty Artist Series: Instructors and professors from area colleges will perform. 3 p.m. Sundays, TMA’s Great Gallery, 2445 Monroe St. (419) 255-8000 or toledomuseum.org.

> UT department of music: Nov. 8.

> Robert Satterlee, BGSU pianist, with guest flutist Marcia Henry: Nov. 15.

Music at the Manor House: All the right notes will reverberate around the metroparks’ jewel. Wildwood Preserve Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. (419) 535-3056.

> Oboe students of BGSU’s Jacqueline Leclair, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 10.

> Graduate String Quartet, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 17.

Keb’ Mo’: This singer-songwriter and guitarist “has reinvented the blues for modern times.” 7:30 p.m. Nov. 11, Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty, Ann Arbor, Mich. $26-$50. (734) 768-8397, (734) 668-8463 or www.michtheater.org.

“The Magic Flute”: Part of the Toledo Symphony’s Mozart & More series, this performance will include compositions by Wagner and Beethoven. 7:30 p.m. Nov. 14, Franciscan Theatre & Conference Center, Lourdes College, 6832 Convent Blvd., Sylvania. $29-$33. (419) 246-8000, (800) 348-1253 or www.toledosymphony.com.

Brahms and Friends: The Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra will perform Prokofiev’s Overture, Bizet’s symphony and Brahms’ Piano Concerto No. 2. 8 p.m. Nov. 14, Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty, Ann Arbor, Mich. $24.50-$49. (734) 994-4801 or www.a2so.com.

Sounds of the Stadium: The BGSU Marching Band will bring the Falcons’ fighting spirit indoors in this performance. 3 p.m. Nov. 15, Kobacker Hall, BGSU’s Moore Musical Arts Center, Willard Drive and Ridge Street, Bowling Green. $7-$10. (419) 372-8171 or (800) 589-2224.

The Chenille Sisters: These peppy singers will be joined by Ariel & Zoey and the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra. 4 p.m. Nov. 15, Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty, Ann Arbor, Mich. $14. (800) 345-3000, michtheater.org/series_njfk.php or Ticketmaster.com.

STAGE

Connxtions Comedy Club: Comedians bring their best yuks for your amusement. 5319 Heatherdowns Blvd. $12-$14 (unless noted otherwise). (419) 867-9041.

> Tim Kidd: 8 and 10 p.m. Oct. 31.

Funny Bone: 6140 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg. (419) 931-3474.

> Ralphie May: 7 and 10 p.m. Oct. 31, $27.

> Vanessa Fraction: 8 p.m. Nov. 4, $10.

> Malik S: 8 p.m. Nov. 5, $10.

> Pauly Shore: 8 and 10:30 p.m. Nov. 6; 7 and 10 p.m. Nov. 7; and 7:30 p.m. Nov. 8, $27.

> Hypnotist Anthony Potmesil: 7:30 p.m. Nov. 10-11, $10.

> John Rathbone: 7 p.m. Nov. 12; 8 and 10:30 p.m. Nov. 13; 7 and 10 p.m. Nov. 14; and 7 p.m. Nov. 15, $14-$16.

“Har Har: An Evening with Harburg Harrisbrandt.” Joseph Langham wrote and performs this one-act play about “a singer/songwriter who tries to perform his songs, but constant distraction, an odd sense of self and a desire to please keep sending him off in other directions.” 8 p.m. Oct. 31, Valentine Theatre’s Studio A, 410 Adams St. $15. glacity.org.

Illusionaire: Master illusionist Lyn Dillies defies the eye with a variety of tricks and techniques. 2 p.m. Nov. 1, Ritz Theatre, 20 S. Washington St., Tiffin. $10-$20. (419) 448-8544.

“Don Quixote”: The Bowling Green Opera Theater will produce Georg Philipp Telemann’s version of Cervantes’ masterwork in tandem with “Master Pedro’s Puppet Show.” The shows will be preceded by opera forums in Bryan Recital Hall. 7:15 p.m. Nov. 6 and 2:15 p.m. Nov. 8, Kobacker Hall, BGSU’s Moore Musical Arts Center, Willard Drive and Ridge Street, Bowling Green. $5-$12. (419) 372-2719.

“Fiddler on the Roof”: Oregon Community Theatre will present this classic musical about a father hoping to find a proper husband for his daughter. 8 p.m. Nov. 6-7, Fassett Middle School Auditorium, 3025 Starr Ave., Oregon. $12-$15. (419) 691-1398 or www.oregoncommunitytheatre.org.

“Accomplice”: The plot twists in this comedy-thriller reveal surprises about marriage and business. 8 p.m. Nov. 6-7, 13-14 and 19-21 and 2:30 p.m. Nov. 15 and 22, Toledo Rep’s Tenth Street Theatre, 16 10th St. $18. (419) 243-9277 or www.toledorep.org.

“Murder Among Friends”: The angles of a love triangle plan to off one another in two murder plots, but when a death does occur, it’s not according to plan. 8 p.m. Nov. 6-7, 12-14 and 19-21 and 2 p.m. Nov. 15, Village Players Theater, 2740 Upton Ave. between Monroe St. and Central Ave. (419) 472-6817 or www.thevillageplayers.org.

“Seussical”: The Cat in the Hat comes back in this musical based on the beloved children’s book author’s works, staged by Sylvania’s Northview High School. 7:30 p.m. Nov. 6-7 and 2:30 p.m. Nov. 7-8, Franciscan Center, Lourdes College, 6832 Convent Blvd., Sylvania. $10-$12. (419) 824-3999.

Anthony Bourdain: Host of the Travel Channel’s “No Reservations” and executive chef at New York’s famed bistro Les Halles, Bourdain is the author of the bestselling “Kitchen Confidential: Adventures in the Culinary Underbelly.” 8 p.m. Nov. 7, Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty, Ann Arbor, Mich. $32.50-$65. (734) 768-8397, (734) 668-8463 or www.michtheater.org.

“Falstaff”: A rotund knight’s personality wins many conquests (and enemies) in this comedic Verdi opera with a libretto based loosely on Shakespeare’s “Merry Wives of Windsor” and other plays. 7:30 p.m. Nov. 7 and 13 and 2 p.m. Nov. 15, Valentine Theatre, 400 N. Superior St. $50-$95. (419) 242-2787 or www.valentinetheatre.com.

“All Shook Up”: Toledo School for the Arts will put on this musical, featuring Elvis songs and based on William Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night.” 7 p.m. Nov. 5-7 and 2:30 p.m. Nov. 8, Owens Community College, Center for Fine and Performing Arts’ Mainstage Theatre, 30335 Oregon Road, Perrysburg. $5-$10. (419) 246-8732, ext. 226.

“Breakfast at Frannie’s”: Inspired by an Adrian, Mich., eatery, this play involves a restaurant owner in failing health, his brother with a disability and loyal cafe patrons. 8 p.m. Nov. 12-14 and 3 p.m. Nov. 15, Croswell Opera House, 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian, Mich. $13-$22. (517) 264-7469 or www.croswell.org.

“Twain Tall Tales”: The Black Swamp Players will stage a production based on the humorist’s far-fetched stories. 8 p.m. Nov. 13-14, 2 p.m. Nov. 15, First United Methodist Church Theatre, 1506 E. Wooster St., Bowling Green. $8-$10. (419) 352-9337, (419) 575-2259 or www.blackswampplayers.org.

“1984”: The Ritz Teen Thespian Guild will present a multimedia presentation about George Orwell’s dystopian story about man’s fate in a society where Big Brother is always watching. 10 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. Nov. 13, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 14 and 2 p.m. Nov. 15, Ritz Theatre, 20 S. Washington St., Tiffin. $4-$10. Reservations: (419) 448-8544, ext. 29. www.ritztheatre.org.

“Machinal”: Loosely based on a scandalous trial, this play examines the circumstances that could drive a young woman to murder. 7:30 p.m. Nov. 13-14 and 18-21 and 2 p.m. Nov. 15 and 22, UT’s Center for Performing Arts, Tower View Boulevard and West Campus Drive. $9-$13. (419) 530-2452 or www.utoledo.edu/BoxOffice.

“Patience”: Bowling Green Opera Theater will perform this Gilbert & Sullivan work. 2 p.m. Nov. 14, Wooster Street Center, 1124 E. Wooster St., Bowling Green. (419) 372-8171 or (800) 589-2224.

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, through Nov. 1, 49 N. Sixth St., Waterville. $7.50-$11. (419) 878-2177 or www.tlew.org.

Governor Ted Strickland announced the University of Toledo has been named a Center of Excellence in Advanced Renewable Energy and the Environment during his visit to the campus Oct. 29.
“The Center of excellence designation recognizes the important of what’s happening here at UT and will carry a great deal of weight when it comes to grants and funding,” said Governor Strickland.
“It’s a significant step on our journey to become an engaging university in the 21st Century. We have a tremendous responsibility to the community and developing technology for economic development here,” said UT President Dr. Lloyd Jacobs. “The governor’s visit is another sign of his support for the University.”
The center is expected to tap UT’s academic and research strengths to address the need for clean energy technologies and a better understanding of complex environmental systems.

Governor Strickland toured UT’s Clean and Alternative Energy Incubator on Dorr Street Thursday afternoon, visiting all of the start-up companies located there.
“When you consider the intellectual brain power here it’s a magnificent thing for UT and Toledo. There’s no part of Ohio more exciting to see what’s happening in cutting edge technology than Northwest Ohio,” Strickland said.
“We’re aware of the growing implements of advanced technology, particularly solar energy in Toledo and Dr. Jacobs is one of the visionary leaders this great state,” he said.
The Centers of Excellence will position the university system of Ohio to be a magnet for leadership in innovation and entrepreneurial activity, as outlined in Ohio’s 10-year “Strategic Plan for Higher Education.” The plan includes distinct missions for each institution that are recognized by students, faculty and business leaders while eliminating unnecessary competition for resources within the state, according to the Governor.
UT’s core areas of research and technology development will be focused around solar, biomass, wind, energy storage, conversion and management with environmental and ecosystems. That research and development supports local industrial growth in companies that are expanding their products to become competitive in the global market, according to UT officials.
UT has invested heavily in faculty and research infrastructure in the area of alternative energy and recently created a School of Solar and Renewable Energy while dedicating the Scott Park Campus of Energy and Innovation.
The state named nine Centers of Excellence focused in different areas of advanced energy at eight universities throughout the state.
The centers are expected to help Ohio meet the requirements of Senate Bill 221, an energy reform bill signed by Governor Strickland last year. The bill mandates that 25 percent of all electricity production in Ohio come from advanced energy sources by 2025.
Governor Strickland said the state’s Third Frontier Program needs to be renewed and he is urging the legislature to renew that funding program and put it on the ballot next spring.
“UT is a benefactor and recipient of funding from the Third Frontier Program and I’m not sure we would be here today without it,” Dr. Jacobs said.

Wilkowski keeps steady pace in mayoral race

When Keith Wilkowski ran for mayor in 2005, his daughter Emily got married. This time around, his daughter Erica wed.
And if the campaign ends as Wilkowski hopes, the older of his two sons, Greg, will be swapping nuptials when it is time to run for re-election, he said, laughing.
“I am cautiously optimistic,” the Democrat said about Nov. 3. “We have lots of work to do. We need every single day in order to be successful.”
Wilkowski often gets up at 4 a.m. since announcing in December his intention to run for mayor. He’s collected numerous endorsements, including from the Toledo Area UAW CAP Council, the Toledo Federation of Teachers and Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur.
“I cannot think of anything that we would do differently,” the Toledo attorney said. “Certainly, there is no perfect campaign, nor any perfect candidate. Overall, I think we have put together a very fundamentally sound organization that has had a professional approach to things. We also use Hart Associates … a top-flight media firm. I am sure that we have made our share of errors, things that didn’t always go as we expected. On the other hand, we finished first in the primary and I think we are on track to finish first in the general.”
With only a few days left to campaign, the 53-year-old continues to hammer out the differences between himself and opponent Mike Bell.

Bell would consider raising taxes. Bell wants a “business advocate,” not an economic development director like the city needs. And Bell is going to take a vacation immediately after the campaign.
“There is a fundamental difference between me and Mike in the issue of jobs,” Wilkowski said. “The mayor of the city has an obligation to provide leadership on that front. It is completely true that the private sector creates jobs, not the public sector, but the public sector has always played a strategic and important role in that process. I understand the tools we have in our toolbox to promote economic development and job creation.”
Jobs
As Wilkowski pushes his job agenda in the waning days of the campaign, he continues to go door-to-door. He said soliciting comments and advice from Toledoans has reaffirmed his belief that jobs are top priority for Toledo.
“It has been a very gratifying experience. I have learned an awful lot about just how extensive the unemployment problem is. I have talked to lots of people who have dropped off the charts, who aren’t counted anymore,” he said.
Wilkowski hired Josh Thurston, a former north central Ohio regional field director for Barack Obama’s presidential campaign and the Ohio Democratic Party, to serve as campaign manager.
Thurston said Wilkowski and volunteers have visited more than 20,000 homes.
“We are seeing a lot of people … the face-to-face contact does matter and is pushing them over into our camp,” Thurston said. “Every day, Toledoans are knocking on doors and calling people – it is a consistent outreach … and people are seeing that.”
Wilkowski, who founded and led the group “Toledoans for Obama,” has been surprised at the number of people who have been laid off from good jobs, such as an engineer he met who had lost his job after 29 years.
“It certainly reinforced my belief that Toledo needs to focus intensively on economic development and job creation,” Wilkowski said.
Among the tools he would use to create jobs are the construction of infrastructure, a low and reasonable tax and regulatory environment and obtaining grants to clean up environmentally damaged properties.
Wilkowski has also called for bringing a regional U.S. patent office to Toledo. He wants to offer income tax abatements to people who create patents in targeted industries.
“You would begin to see a big surge in people who are doing patent work; people seeing Toledo as a creative center,” he said.
Another part of his plan includes understanding where the city has the opportunity for industrial development, as well as commercial development and redevelopment.
He believes the creation of infrastructure like roads, bridges, water lines and sewer lines is a powerful development tool, citing his involvement in bringing BAX Global to the Toledo Express Airport.
Wilkowski was city law director from 1990 to 1994, serving as acting city manager at the end of 1993. He was also Lucas County Commissioner from 1989 to 1990, leaving office to take the position of city law director. He served as the chairman of the Lucas County Democratic Party from 1994 to 1997.
“I hope that people will understand that we have to get police officers back on the street, firefighters on the job. We need money to repair our roads and all of that flows from jobs,” Wilkowski said.
Sacrifice
Wilkowski has devoted the past year to running for office. Losing the primary in 2005 might have been for the better, he said.
“Things have a way of working out and the opportunity to run in this environment, when things are so difficult. I feel so strongly that my background is in sync with what we need now.”
In order to serve, the Wilkowski family has made sacrifices, including closing his law practice in the summer.
“I am living on my savings and my wife works part time as a registered nurse, and we are devoting all of our energies to making this a successful campaign.”
On this particular day, Wilkowski is eating grape leaves at Ferdos Restaurant, a neighborhood restaurant that he and his wife Barb walk to from their home. He was going to talk at his house, but the grandkids were visiting, including the newest addition born in July.
“Really when you are the grandpa, it is not really time-consuming,” he said with a smile.
Wilkowski said it’s been hard when he is characterized as less than personal. He comes across better in person, he said.
“I wish I could sit down and talk with everyone about how we can better Toledo and why I care so deeply about this. I think I have a sense of humor that often doesn’t come through … I am always looking for opportunities to talk to people.”

One of his more personal moments is when he talks about leading groups through the Grand Canyon.
His cousin, Vicki Evans, hiked the Grand Canyon with him in 2007 and 2008. It was during their 2008 hike that she learned he wanted to run for Toledo mayor.
“Keith is so encouraging,” Evans said. “I watched him with people who were ready to give up. He would take people’s backpacks and lighten them up and put [the stuff] into his own.”
Evans was so inspired she left Tucson, Ariz., to become his financial coordinator. The past six months has shown her that Wilkowski is ready to be mayor.
“It has shown me more of his depth of curiosity, his experience,” Evans said.
Just the beginning
Wilkowski isn’t slowing down personally or financially as Nov. 3 approaches. He has outraised and outspent Bell from campaign finance reports thus far..
“Working hard and working smart pays off,” he said. “I said at the beginning that the campaign is going to take $500,000 and hundreds of volunteers.
“We have more work to do. I don’t wish it is over,” Wilkowski said. “I really make the most of each day. Every day is a new opportunity to talk to voters, to listen to voters.”
One of his unique experiences was speaking to the Deaf Club.
“I am speaking, but people aren’t looking at me; they are looking at interpreter and then the interpreter would speak to me.”
Wilkowski said the club was concerned about jobs, too.
“I am going to sound like a broken record. When I was first venturing out going door-to-door, I would say ‘jobs’ and people would start talking. It was reinforcing.”
Marlene Harris-Taylor joined the campaign team as the communications director after getting laid off from her job. Around the time, Wilkowski was announcing he was running for mayor, the corporate communication department at her employer Owens Corning was being downsized “because of the economy like Keith is talking about right now,” she said.
She was figuring out her next move when she began to pay attention to start of Wilkowski’s campaign.
“Marlene and I hit it off really well,” Wilkowski said, but he’s not commenting on possible people who will be tapped for his administration.
“We don’t go through that,” Wilkowski said. “Nobody gets a job until I get one. It is not a good idea to think about filling posts until the election is over.”
Chris Redfern, chairman of the Ohio Democratic Party, said if voters compare Wilkowski and Bell, it is clear who is better qualified. Not only does Wilkowski have a detailed plan for the Toledo, he is a Democrat running as a Democrat. Bell is a registered Democrat running as an independent. He also wants to go on vacation after Election Day, Redfern said.
“A Jeep worker today is not thinking about his next vacation, he is thinking if the job he has today, will he have tomorrow. I think Keith strikes a chord with those types of people,” Redfern said.

Bell pushes hard as mayoral race winds down

Mayoral candidate Mike Bell is at The Original Pancake House. It’s his one spare moment to talk before he starts yet another marathon day.
A patron comes into his favorite breakfast place and says, “Hi mayor.” He hopes that’s a sign.
“I am feeling very good about Tuesday, but I am also a realist,” Bell said. “When there are two candidates, there is always the chance you could end up on either side.”
The campaign trail has been rigorous. It’s gotten to the point where he sometimes doesn’t know if it is Tuesday or Saturday.
“You are meeting so many people, you actually, at times, lose track of days because every day is so filled with things,” the 54-year-old said.
But the former Toledo fire chief and state marshal keeps moving.
He made a commitment in March when he announced his intention to run for office — the first elected office of his life.
“When we get to Tuesday or Wednesday morning, I will have absolutely zero regrets because I have done this 110 percent,” Bell said during an Oct. 28 interview.

“I realize that I don’t have full control of the situation from the standpoint that the citizens are the ones who vote for you, but I just want to know that I did my part.”
As Bell sticks to his course, he said opponent Keith Wilkowski has made untrue accusations.
“I have never said I was going to raise taxes and that is the part that is false,” Bell said. “What I said is that I will play inside the perimeter of the budget that is given to me. Now, in saying that, if we have to reduce services, possibly because we don’t have the funding to continue, after that is initiated, if it is uncomfortable for taxpayers, I believe they should have the option to decide.”
The twist, Bell said, is that Wilkowski raised taxes twice when the Democrat was a Lucas County Commissioner more than 20 years ago.
“So when he says that I am the person who is going to tax people, I have absolutely no history of doing that. In fact, I would argue that I have a history of playing inside my budget.”
Municipal experience
Bell served 27 years as a Toledo firefighter, 17 years of those as fire chief before retiring and taking the job as state marshal.
One of his many responsibilities as fire chief was to stay within a $51 million budget. The job also taught him how to stay focused.
“When you allow distractions to get in your way, you can actually lose focus and lose track of where you are supposed to be,” Bell said.
Bell stands by his decision to hire a business advocate for the city, something the Wilkowski campaign has disagreed with because it wants an economic development director.
But Bell said the advocate would have a background in economic development and also know how to integrate government and private businesses. The advocate would reach out and listen to businesses, possibly thwarting problems that result in them leaving Toledo.
Bell said the controversy surrounding his own exodus — a vacation on Nov. 4 — took him by surprise. Even President Barack Obama went on vacation after getting elected.
“Why couldn’t the mayor of Toledo do the same?” he said. “On Wed., Nov. 4, I am actually, once again … a retired person who has a large amount of free time,” Bell said. “I never thought the idea of me using my own free time before taking office, which would help me think about the things I need to be able to do, would be such an issue.”
He’s also had to defend his decision to leave the Democrat Party and run as an independent. He’s not tied to anyone in particular and his allegiance is to Toledoans, no one else.
“I have zero regrets. In fact, every day I know it was the right thing to do.”
His niece Shayla Bell works on his campaign as his scheduler. The John Carroll University graduate said the preoccupation with party affiliation during this election has disturbed her.
“At the end of the day, I want to know that you are a man or woman of your word, you do what is best for the people and you conduct yourself in a very positive way,” she said. “I don’t care what you are, just get the job done. It has amazed me how much stress we put on the D, R and I.”
The plan
Bell’s strategic plan for the city was created with the help of Steve Cady, a professor at BGSU.

Bell heard about Cady’s expertise in strategic change and met with him. Bell came up with a five-point plan and with Cady’s help hosted meetings with local leaders to add to that plan. The last meeting was Oct. 29.
“It is being used all across the country by the best companies and the best cities to revitalize and reenergize their cities,” Cady said.
The plan has grown to include seven points: ensuring safety, balancing the budget, creating jobs, improving schools, stabilizing neighborhoods, encouraging health and wellness and promoting cultural diversity and attractions.
“I think all seven points are critical, but the four issues that I think are on the top of that are: ensure our safety, balance our budget, create jobs and improve our schools. Only because each one of them is connected with economic growth — if you don’t have a safe city, you are not going to have people moving in and developing it; if we don’t create jobs, we won’t have a tax base, if we don’t become partners with our schools, we don’t have drawing power to bring people into the city.”
Bell said a central theme of his plan is engaging the business community. He has heard too many times that businesses have left or almost left because the city is too difficult to work within.
“People are getting the message that I am attempting to put out and that is the only way we are going to be successful is through unity, not separation.”
Bell said receiving the support of the Leadership Fund, the political action committee of the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce, meant a lot.
Mark V’Soske, president of the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce and treasurer of the Leadership Fund, said it has been a long time since the committee endorsed a candidate, but it felt strongly about Bell.
“Mike has the opportunity to really start fresh, as a fresh person with fresh ideas and not be encumbered with a lot of history and baggage,” V’Soske said. “What we liked about Mike is his willingness to involve a lot of people who haven’t otherwise been involved or ideas haven’t been listened to.”
Bell said he takes the endorsement seriously.
“When you are dealing with private businesses, time is money. If you delay something long enough, they will just move on and then an opportunity for your citizens to actually go work is behind you.”
Bell points to Issue 3, which will allow casino gambling in Ohio. Wilkowski recently decided to support the issue, which would bring jobs to Toledo. Bell has supported it from the beginning.
“If it had been a house fire and it took me as long to make a decision as it did for him on this casino issue … that house would have burnt down,” Bell said.
Final seconds
Bell is approaching the final days of campaigning like he has from the beginning: 110 percent. But he’s also keeping it in perspective.
“It is easier to make decisions in this venue than when you only have a split second to make a career-deciding decision,” Bell said of his safety service days. “The other part is that a wrong answer is not jeopardizing anyone’s life. Although there are major decisions, it is not even in the same category.”
Bell said his personality sets him apart from Wilkowski, something he has demonstrated in several debates.
“People feel very comfortable walking up to me. I think I have a large amount of experience as a leader in command of a larger operation. I have good analytical skills. Also, I can think very rapidly to come to the bottom line of what we need to do.”
Bell said when he’s criticized for “flip-flopping,” that is actually experience.
“If you have been into battle, you know that sometimes you have to switch your strategies in order to guarantee that you are still going to win,” he said. “Only a fool keeps going down a road where they know the outcome isn’t necessarily going to be good.”
Wilkowski recently questioned Bell on his decision to reverse his support of the Toledo Police Patrolman’s Association contract. Bell said when it came out in council, it was pretty a good deal, but a couple of months later, “they were saying this is a bad contract and we shouldn’t have done it.”
“If it was something bad that we shouldn’t have done, then we need we need to figure out how to do this right,” Bell said.
One of the fun parts of his campaign has been family involvement.
“Mom is enjoying being first lady. She has come up with clothes that I haven’t seen ever. She is styling. She is totally enjoying this whole process.”
But since mom only gets one vote, Bell has one last thing to say to voters:
“I have been a time-tested leader who has never let them down. The next four years are extremely critical for turning this city around. When you look into the eyes of either candidate, which one do you truly believe has the ability to lead?”