Toledo Newspaper

Win a major spa package from The Kerr House

Brandi Barhite — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 06:00:25 +0000

Contest: Win a $1,575 spa trip from The Kerr House

Hey, Moms: Ready for your kids to go back to school? Want to center yourself? Need some peace and quiet? Of course you do. Win a First Prize three-day program (valued at more than $1,575) or Second Prize one-day program (valued at more than $350) at The Kerr House. Tell us in 300 words or less why you deserve a getaway from The Kerr House; e-mail your essay to news@toledofreepress.com or mail it to “Kerr House Contest/
Toledo Free Press, 605 Monroe St. Toledo OH 43604” by July 24. Full prize package descriptions accompany this story at www.toledofreepress.com. Winners will be announced in the Aug. 2 Toledo Free Press Back to School issue.

Prize descriptions

1st Prize; Three-day Destination Spa valued at more than $1,575
Sample Program Outline
8:30 a.m. Wake up, breakfast served in bed
9:30 a.m. Yoga class
11 a.m. Body treatments
12:45 p.m. Lunch is served in the cafe
1:30 p.m. Body treatments
2:30 p.m. Body treatments
4 p.m. Time to rest, read, reflect, walk or Shop
6 p.m. Dress for dinner
7 p.m. Dinner is served in the Oak Dining Room
8 p.m. Entertainment

2nd Prize: Day Destination Spa valued at more than $350
Sample Program Outline
9 a.m. Arrive at The Kerr House
9:30 a.m. Mineral bath and full-hour Massage
11:15 p.m. Herbal wrap and whirlpool
12:15 p.m. Lunch is served in the cafe`
1p.m. Facial
2:45 p.m. Yoga class
The day ends by 4 p.m.

*Treatments are not necessarily in this order. All activities are optional

Kerr House preparing to celebrate 30 years

When Laurie Hostetler opened The Kerr House in 1980, the word “spa” wasn’t in anyone’s vocabulary.
Those who acted healthy and exercised were considered “health nuts,” she said, and it wasn’t meant kindly.
Her original thought was to only offer yoga at the Grand Rapids manor, but then she added beauty and body treatments.
“We have always worked holistically,” she said. “We pamper them and they learn so much about exercising and natural food. We work with the total person through exercise, nutrition, attitude, stress management, self-esteem and we have a very successfully program.”
As she prepares for the 30th anniversary, Hostetler reflected on society’s view on health and wellness. When The Kerr House opened, “we came in the back door,” she said.

Laurie Hostetler at The Kerr House.

“I really think it is wonderful that we have so many spas now … because it means that people are caring about their health,” Hostetler said, “and at this time when there is so much stress, I think it is real important for people to learn how to manage the stress in their lives and take care of their health.”
While most spas go for that new, just-built look, The Kerr House was built in 1880, she said.
“It took us one year to clear the title, but toward the end of that year, I thought we might never get the title,” Hostetler said. “I looked at beautiful estates that were ready to go and I would sit back and go through the program and I realized this house has an extraordinary energy.”
The old Victorian home, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, makes it easier for guests to leave their problems at the doorstep “because it’s like stepping into a different era,” she said. The home holds a maximum of eight guests for an overnight program.
“It is kind of a complete program; you aren’t just going for a massage or just going for yoga or for healthy food,” said Christina Bond of Daphne, Ala. “You are going for the whole package. Laurie encourages you to take stock of your life.”
Bond, who grew up in Maumee, is a pharmacist who spends hours on her feet. She first visited The Kerr House with her mother after graduating from pharmacy school and quickly became enamored with Laurie.
“She is absolutely wonderful, Bond said. “She is an inspiration on how to take care of yourself, how not to give, give, give all the time. You cannot give much if you don’t take care of yourself.”
Hostetler offers a variety of programs from a five-day visit to a three-day stay to a weekend getaway. While women are the primary guests, more men are beginning to realize the value of a retreat, she said. The Kerr House also offers individual services for a guest who just wants to stop in for one of its treatments like a massage.
“Five nights is ideal because they have so much opportunity to live it and absorb it,” Hostetler said. “We get some people who always come with someone and then we have people who would never come with anyone because this is theirs.”
Breakfast in bed, lunch in the cafe and dinner in the dining room with a different set of antique linens, dishes and stemware every night is just part of the stay, which also includes an array of beauty and body treatments, as well as quiet time.
Prices vary depending on the program, but the five-night fee is $2,550 for a semi-private room and $2,950 for a private room. Three nights are $1,375 to $1,575, while weekends are $750 to $850.
“It is such a relaxing atmosphere,” said Kay Brems of Flat Rock, N.C. “You are truly pampered. Laurie says you do what you want to do. We do have a schedule, but there is never any objection if we don’t want our schedule.”
Brems decided to visit The Kerr house after reading about it in a magazine. The spa has been featured and honored in numerous magazines. The Kerr House is part of the Spa Destination Group, and Hostetler just finished a two-year stint as president.
“I like the five-day one,” Brems said of her program preference. “I have done the three-day, but it is never quite enough. Five-day makes it seems like you had enough time for yourself.”
While Hostetler continues to teach the yoga class, she employs 30 people who cook and perform the other treatments.
J.B. Bott of Columbus came to the house after her husband died unexpectedly, which is a reason people schedule a visit, Hostetler said.
“The Kerr House is an absolutely magical place,” Bott said. “It is a big warm hug … I have gone up there for pleasure and fun, and to retreat and help me get through a hard time.”

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

Local limousine companies struggle with municipal codes

Mark Hensch — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 05:11:54 +0000

Todd Daggett plays by the rules.
During his 12 years as owner of Perrysburg’s Dagwoods Limousine, he said, his company has strictly followed Toledo’s municipal code while operating in the city. Unfortunately for area consumers, he said, enforcement of the code is so lax, Dagwoods is in the minority.
“The city is not inspecting the limousines the way they are supposed to,” Daggett said. “If someone gets hurt in a limo driven by an unlicensed or uninsured company, it could hurt the whole industry. Something terrible is going to happen.”
Daggett said an officer from the Toledo Police Department inspects each company’s fleet of vehicles once each year. Once inspected, he said, each company’s owner turns in government paperwork and pays a nominal licensing fee. Vehicles seating seven passengers or fewer are charged $100 by the city of Toledo, he said. Vehicles seating greater numbers pay $30, he said, to the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio instead.
In addition, he said, vehicles weighing more than 10,001 pounds pay a $100 fee to the Ohio State Highway Patrol and not the City of Toledo.
Unfair advantage
Problems occur when other companies gain an unfair advantage by not incurring these same licensing costs Dagwoods experiences, Daggett said.
“These companies undercut my business,” Daggett said. “Would you want to go to a doctor for surgery and find out afterwards he was not licensed so it was cheaper? I cannot compete with that. It is just not right.”
Scott Searle, Toledo’s administrative services officer, said Toledo’s municipal code concerning vehicles for hire last changed in October 2008. Since then, he said, keeping the rules in practice has proven difficult after shakeups in the police force.

Todd Daggett

“The biggest problem in citing someone for violating these rules is the police have to catch them doing it,” Searle said. “Part of the issue right at this moment is that after the police restructuring the officer formerly assigned to assist the finance department with public vehicle enforcement was reassigned to street duty.”
The department currently provides a single officer for directly enforcing the rules, Searle said, although other officers may issue citations if they are familiar with municipal code. The financial department that issues licenses cannot give out citations for violations on its own, he said.
Daggett said increased awareness of the code amongst police officers would help. He said the current administration lacks the manpower and training for effective enforcement of Toledo’s vehicle for hire laws.
“I think the police department is understaffed,” Daggett said. “That, or not enough of them have knowledge of the rules. They do not even teach the taxi cab or limousine codes in the police academy.”
Officer Bruce Simon, the police officer in charge of enforcing Toledo limousine and taxi codes, did not return calls seeking comment.
A fourth-degree misdemeanor is given for failure to have an appropriate license under the Ohio Revised Code, Searle said. He said violations may result in fines under the Ohio code. Impounding of offending vehicles may also occur under Toledo’s own municipal law, he said.
Doug Ramsey, owner of Limo Toledo, said abuse of the code runs rampant through the city’s limousine companies. Even worse, he said, Toledo loses out by not enforcing its own laws.
“Half the companies in Toledo are probably illegal,” Ramsey said. “If the city wants to make money on issuing tickets, they can make tons of money ticketing these companies. The city and state need to step up and do their job.”
No help from Carty
Motivated by “the city’s inefficiency,” Daggett said he wrote Mayor Carty Finkbeiner a March 25 letter detailing his concerns. Finkbeiner’s response was less than satisfying, Daggett said.
“Your business is in Perrysburg. Why are you writing me?” Finkbeiner asks in a copy of the March 31 letter obtained by Toledo Free Press. “And who wrote the rules?”
Daggett said he next contacted 2nd district City Councilman and mayoral candidate D. Michael Collins with a May 1 letter about the issue. Collins said as the current chair of the Law and Criminal Justice Committee, he oversees all legislation concerning limousine law. He said Finkbeiner’s response “demonstrates a continuing pattern of his incompetence.”
“For the city to not enforce the municipal code is irresponsible,” Collins said. “We have these rules on the books and we have to react to them.”
Mayor Finkbeiner never responded to a second letter sent May 1, Daggett said.
Daggett said stricter administration of Toledo’s limousine laws could eventually reap benefits for the city. He said greater adherence towards the rules would create a medium of fairness between the city’s competing limousine companies.
“If the city would get on people’s backs about paying licensing fees, we would have less of a $21 million deficit,” Daggett said. “Everyone should be compliant so there is a level playing field for everybody. The remedy is enforcement.”

Pin-up still turns heads with beer campaign

Mark Hensch — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 05:00:42 +0000

Toledoans nostalgic for a taste of the 1960s got it when Schlitz Beer re-launched its “Classic ’60s Formula” in December. For those still thirsty, the company is offering another flashback in the form of Cynthia “Cindy” Myers, its new spokeswoman for the retro beer. A Toledo native, Myers first gained prominence as Miss December 1968 for Playboy.
“This is just such a fun thing to do after all these years,” Myers said. “It is just the biggest kick I can think of.”
Myers said she is Schlitz’s official Gusto Girl, a public representative who promotes the beer brand. During the 1960s, she said, Schlitz boasted sales which dominated American beer sales. Now back in select markets after a lengthy hiatus, she said she was happy the company chose her as its icon given her association with the beer’s golden age.
“People have fond memories of Schlitz and my centerfold,” Myers said. “It is nice they paired us together.”
Signed to a two-year contract with Schlitz, Myers now promotes its brands in select markets, she said. Her first tour started June 15 and has taken her through Kansas City, St. Louis and Minneapolis so far. She said she is due in Grand Rapids, Mich., July 8.
A typical stop, she said, includes morning radio shows, lunch with local distributors and evening meet-and-greets which are invitation only. Schlitz fanatics could register for passes on the company’s Web site, www.schlitzgusto.com, she said.
Regardless of where she is, she said, she appreciates the response her appearances receive.
“My fans are fantastic,” she said. “They are so loyal.”
Now back with its classic brown glass bottle, Schlitz boasts “Things had better body back then … especially the beer,” Myers said. The phrase is a nod towards Myers’ Playboy shoots, with photos of her on the Schlitz Web site covering up skin. Besides receiving Miss December 1968, she was also voted No. 10 “Playmate of the Century” in a Playboy poll.

Cynthia Myers (center)

Those original photo shoots, Myers added, occurred in Toledo. Her now-famous 1968 layout was taken in front of the Toledo Art Museum and was titled “Wholly Toledo,” she said. She said she grew up in the city’s west side and attended Woodward High School. Despite her work with Playboy, she said, no one from the area ever judged her.
“The people of Toledo have good, Midwestern values,” Myers said. “I came from a really good, loving family. I never did anything I was uncomfortable with or that I didn’t feel was right.”
Though she is excited for more tour stops, Myers said she remains modest about her work. She said she is happy for a bit of nostalgia herself in undertaking her promotional trek.
“Every woman in Playboy has been a beautiful woman,” she said. “Whenever I am singled out for a project, I am humbled.”

Events Calendar, July 3, 2009

Whitney Meschke — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 05:00:36 +0000

Events are subject to change.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

July 4th Bash: Frost Bite will perform in celebration of independence, plus: free food. Noon July 4-1 a.m. July 5, Papa’s Tavern, 1328 Liberty St. No cover. (419) 697-0644 or www.myspace.com/papas_tavern.

MOSTLY FOR ADULTS
Parents should determine appropriateness for children

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

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

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

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

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

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

Quilting retreat: The Black Swamp Quilt Guild of Bowling Green will host this event, three days dedicated to whatever projects participants are working on. Raffles and technique demonstrations, show-and-tell and food are planned, too. Oct. 16-18, Widewater Retreat Center, 4050 Highway 24, Liberty Center. Registration deadline: Aug. 13. Shari Wiseman, (419) 422-9371; Nancy Andrade, (419) 575-7369; or www.blackswampquilters.org.

Party @ the Park: Live music will be featured each Saturday all summer. Track opens at 11:30 a.m.; post time is 6 p.m. Raceway Park, 5700 Telegraph Rd. $1-$2. (419) 476-7751 or www.racewayparktoledo.com.
> July 4 and 18: Hot Lucy.
> July 11: Beer Thirty.
> July 18: Hot Lucy.

Creative Zone: Beginning adults can learn how to get started in a productive pastime. Supplies will be furnished. 7-8 p.m. Thursdays, Oregon Branch Library, 3340 Dustin Road, Oregon. Registration: (419) 259-5250.
> Picture Frames, July 9.
> Book Mark and Holder, July 16.
Blood drives: The Western Lake Erie Region of the American Red Cross will hold several drives this month. For more information or opportunities to donate, call (800) 448-3543 or visit www.givebloodtoday.org.
> 12:30-5:30 p.m. July 7, Maumee Eagles, 827 Illinois Ave., Maumee.
> Noon-5 July 8, Marblehead Veterans of Foreign Wars hall, 421 W. Main St., Marblehead.
> 1-6 p.m. July 9, Maumee Valley Church, 8715 Garden Road, Maumee.
> 9 a.m.-3 pm. July 11, Toledo Masons, Northern Light Lodge, 119 W. Wayne St., Maumee.
> 9 a.m.-2 p.m. July 11, Bowling Green Eagles Club, 1163 N. Main St., Bowling Green.
> 11:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Port Clinton Moose, 1105 W. Lakeshore Dr., Port Clinton.
> Noon-6 July 14, Swanton American Legion, 200 S. Hallet Ave., Swanton.
> 12:30-5:30 p.m. July 14, Lambertville Veterans of Foreign Wars, 4120 Piehl Road, Lambertville, Mich.
> Noon-6 July 16, Little Sisters of the Poor, 930 S. Wynn Road, Oregon.
> 7:30 a.m.-2 p.m. July 17, St. Luke’s Hospital, 5901 Monclova Road, Maumee.
1-6 p.m. July 17, St. Pius Catholic Church, 3011 Carskaddon Ave.

Creative Zone: Beginning adults can get started in a productive pastime. Supplies will be furnished. 7-8 p.m. Thursdays, Oregon Branch Library, 3340 Dustin Road, Oregon. Registration: (419) 259-5250.
> Picture Frames, July 9.
> Bookmark and holder, July 16.

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

Discover Downtown Toledo Walking Tours: UT’s Urban Affairs Center and the Toledo-Lucas County Public Library sponsor these in-depth looks at architecture and history in the Glass City, lead by trained volunteer guides. Noon-2 Thursdays, July 9-Sept. 17, rain or shine. (419) 530-3591 or uac@utoledo.edu.
> In the Beginning: July 9, from Jefferson Avenue and North Summit Street by the historic marker.
> View From the Rooftop: July 16, Madison Avenue and North Michigan Street by the Main Library.

Friday Night Frenzy: Racing will be accompanied by music, drink specials and Mud Hens ticket giveaways. Raceway Park, 5700 Telegraph Rd. $1-$2. (419) 476-7751 or www.racewayparktoledo.com.
> July 10: Beer Thirty.
> July 17: Hot Lucy.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Accent on Accessibility garden tour: Visitors will move through the beautiful shade, pioneer and rose gardens and see how they provide habitat in this monthly easy access program that pairs individuals with disabilities and trained volunteers. 10:30 a.m.-noon July 15, Toledo Botanical Garden, 5403 Elmer Dr. (419) 536-5566. $2. Reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

Edu-nomic Stimulus Day: This rapid registration event for UT allows visitors to gain admission, learn about majors, programs and financial aid, tour the campus and take part in informational sessions. 9 a.m.-7 p.m. July 15, UT’s Rocket Hall, Suite 1300, Dorr Street and Secor Road. (419) 530-8888; (800) 586-5336; utoledo.edu; or heather.pierson@utoledo.edu

Wall Treatments & Techniques Clinic: Learn how to make your home look like a Tuscan villa, an English manor or a just a stylish Toledo home. 6:30 p.m. July 16, The Andersons, 530 Illinois Ave., Maumee, (419) 891-2700.

Book Sale: Sanger Friends of the Library will host this clearance of adult fiction and nonfiction, children’s books, magazines and audio-visual materials. 1-4:30 p.m. July 17 and 19 and 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. July 18, Sanger Branch Library, 3030 W. Central Ave. (419) 259-5370.

Wine Tastings: Lovers of the vine’s fruit can try varietals based on the evening’s theme. 7-9:30 p.m. July 17, 24, 31, TMA’s Glass Pavilion, 2445 Monroe St. $20. (419) 255-8000.

Meet the Experts: Beauty pros will share tips and techniques and book personal consultations. Shows at 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. July 18, Macy’s, Westfield Franklin Park, 5001 Monroe St., Talmadge Road side. $25, redeemable in purchases. Reservations: (419) 479-2504 or (419) 479-2300.

A Midsummer Night: City lights set the stage for a night of music and dancing to benefit the library’s summer reading program and youth services. 7:30 p.m. July 18, Civic Plaza (rooftop), Toledo Lucas County Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St. $75. (419) 259-5123.

Volunteer Naturalist Training: “Nature interpretation, seasonal plant and animal cycles and Northwest Ohio natural history” are topics of these monthly field studies. 1-3:30 p.m. July 18, Farnsworth Metropark’s Roche de Bout parking lot, 8505 S. River Road (U.S. Route 24), Waterville. Reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

ART & EXHIBITIONS
Toledo Museum of Art exhibitions: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesdays-Thursdays and Saturdays, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Fridays and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sundays, 2445 Monroe St. (419) 255-8000.
> “Juneteenth: Photography in Focus.” Local African-American photographers’ work will be displayed in “an intimate exhibition showcasing their diverse styles.” Through July 19, Community Gallery.
> Sylvania Senior Center Artist Group: These seniors “explore varied styles and subjects,” but share the enjoyment of creation. That enthusiasm is on display in this exhibition. Through July 19, Community Gallery.
> “The Spirit of Creativity”: High school students serve as curators and organizers of this exhibition of their peers’ work. Through July 19, Community Gallery.
> “Radiant Ensemble”: “The Glass Pavilion sparkles” with historical jewelry made between 1785 to 1885 from the collection of Nancy and Gilbert Levine. Through Aug. 9.
> “Monkey Business”: “On this 150th anniversary year of Charles Darwin’s ‘On the Origin of Species,’ this exhibit explores simian symbolism through the ages.” Through Aug. 30, Gallery 18.
> “Prints of Pop II: The Art of Sir Eduardo Paolozzi.” A collector of “ordinary things, Paolozzi used old magazines, comic strips, consumer products and advertisements” to create graphic works, “expanding on themes introduced by the Dada artists.” Through Sept. 6, Works on Paper Galleries.
> 91st annual Toledo Area Artists: This yearly celebration of the region’s artistic ability consistently draws the unique, the innovative and the eclectic. July 10-Aug. 23, Canaday Gallery.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Art Hours: Would-be glass artists now can reserve spots in the TMA’s hour-long studio sessions. 2445 Monroe St. $25. Reservations start the Tuesday before the event: (419) 254-5771, ext. 7448.
> Hot glass flowers: 6, 7 and 8 p.m. Fridays through Aug. 28.
> Flame-worked marble: 6 and 7 p.m. July 17.

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.
> Animals in Art, 1, 2, 3 and 4 p.m. July 5.
> Glass Pavilion Experience, 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. July 10 and 17.
> Monet’s Garden, 2 and 3 p.m. July 11; and 1, 2, 3 and 4 p.m. July 12.

Outdoors on the Terrace: Visitors can take part in hands-on activities inspired by works in the Sculpture Garden. 7-9 p.m., main TMA terrace, 2445 Monroe St. (419) 255-8000.
> July 10: Barry Flanagan’s “Large Leaping Hare.” “Create a jumping rabbit for your garden.”
> July 17: George Rickey’s “Triple N Gyratory III.” “Create your own moveable art.”

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

Local glass artists: Workers in silicon-based media will be spotlighted. 7-10 p.m., TMA, 2445 Monroe St. (419) 255-8000.
> July 10: Mary Ellen Graham, John Sutton and Randy Kuntz, Toledo Glass Guild artists.
> 6-10 p.m. July 17 and 2 p.m. July 18-19: Glassblower Mark Matthews of Sauder Village.

Salone de Refuse: This exhibition features artworks not accepted for participation in the Toledo Area Artists exhibition at the TMA. Gala reception: 8 p.m. July 10; exhibition: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, through Aug. 23, Collingwood Arts Center, 2413 Collingwood Blvd. (419) 244-2787.

“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, starting July 11, National Center for Nature Photography, Secor Metropark, 10000 W. Central Ave., Berkey. (419) 829-2761.

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

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, starting July 11, National Center for Nature Photography, Secor Metropark, 10000 W. Central Ave., Berkey. (419) 829-2761.

“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, starting July 11, National Center for Nature Photography, Secor Metropark, 10000 W. Central Ave., Berkey. (419) 829-2761.

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

Art Walk: Area galleries and studios will open so others can browse and purchase local art and get to know its creators and the neighborhood. Maps with information about each venue will be available at each of the stops along the walk. 6-9 p.m. July 16, Art Zone and Warehouse District, downtown Toledo. (419) 254-2787 or info@acgt.org.

Oak Openings Photo Primer: Mid-Summer Prairie. Learn about “the unique and beautiful plants and animals of the tallgrass prairie.” 6:30-9 p.m. July 16, Buehner Center porch, Oak Openings Preserve Metropark, 4139 Girdham Road off Route 2, Swanton. $15. Reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

New Insights on Old Favorites: TMA curators and other museum staff discuss related works of art during strolls through the galleries. 7 p.m. July 17, 24 and 31 from Libbey Court, 2445 Monroe St. (419) 255-8000.

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

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

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

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

St. Thomas Festival: 3-11 p.m. July 17-19, St. Thomas Aquinas Church, 729 White St. (419) 698-1519.

Oak Ridge Festival: Stroll wooded trails to see more than 150 artisans and craftsmen dressed in period-style costumes as they display thousands of quality, handcrafted items. There also will be crafts and contests for kids, wagon rides, live entertainment, historical encampments, old-fashioned baseball games, antique machinery display and a car show. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. July 18-19, Township Road 104 east of Route 4, Attica. $4-$6. (419) 426-0611.

Family Fun Festival: A “Pooch Parade” contest will be the highlight of this event, which also includes a barbecue, arts and crafts, games for visitors (and their dogs) and more. Noon-5 July 19, Sacred Heart Home, 930 S. Wynn Road, Oregon. www.littlesistersofthepoor.org

FAMILY TIME
Weekend Pet Adoptions: Find a dog or cat to join your home at these events.
> Planned Pethood: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. July 4, The Andersons, 530 Illinois Ave., Maumee, (419) 891-2700.
> Animal House Rescue: noon-3 July 5, The Andersons, 530 Illinois Ave., Maumee, (419) 891-2700.
> 4 Paws Sake: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. July 11, The Andersons, 530 Illinois Ave., Maumee, (419) 891-2700.
> Paws & Whiskers Cat Shelter: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. July 11, The Andersons, 4701 Talmadge Road. (419) 473-3232.
> Maumee Valley Save-a-Pet: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. July 12, The Andersons, 530 Illinois Ave., Maumee, (419) 891-2700.
> Animal House Rescue: noon-3 July 18, The Andersons, 530 Illinois Ave., Maumee, (419) 891-2700.
> Planned Pethood: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. July 18-19 and 25, The Andersons, 4701 Talmadge Road. (419) 473-3232.
> 4 Paws Sake: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. July 19, The Andersons, 530 Illinois Ave., Maumee, (419) 891-2700.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cre-activities: Heatherdowns Branch Library will offer teens the chance to express themselves with a variety of weeklong contests during regular hours, 1-5:30 p.m. Sundays, 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays and 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays. 3265 Glanzman Road. (419) 259-5270.
> The Joke’s on You: Figure out the punch line for each set-up. July 6-12.
> Name That Tune: Find out if you’re a music aficionado by identifying different musical styles. July 13-19.
> Fill in the Blank: Fill in the blanks of a MadLibs-style story. July 20-26.

Expressions & Explorations: Teens have a chance to win in these weekly contests at Holland Branch Library. 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays and 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Fridays-Saturday, 1032 S. McCord Road, Holland. (419) 259-5240.
> Express your musical side: Identify singers from song lyrics. July 6-11.
> Express your sweet side: Guess how many treats are in the jar. July 13-18.
> Express your cinematic side: Name the movies based on pictures of single scenes. July 20-25.

Match games: Fifth-graders to high school seniors can participate in Birmingham Branch Library’s series of games, held during regular hours, and win prizes. Noon-9 Mondays-Tuesdays, 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Wednesdays-Saturdays, 203 Paine Ave. (419) 259-5210.
> I-Spy Masterpiece: Identify all the pieces of art in a bottle. July 6-11.
> Library vs. Wild: Name the exotic animals. July 13-18.
> What Sport Do They Sport: Match famous athletes with their activity. July 20-25.

TMA Family Center programs: Hands-on art activities for children. Noon-5:30 p.m. Sundays and 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 2445 Monroe St. (419) 255-8000 or www.toledomuseum.org.
> Make an Animal, July 5, 7 and 9.
> Create a Superhero, July 12, 14 and 16.
> Build a Castle, July 19, 21 and 23.

Sunday Samplers: Visitors can bring picnic dinners and try a different experience each week. 5-6 p.m. (unless noted), meet at Wildwood Preserve Metropark’s Visitor Center, 5100 W. Central Ave. (419) 535-3056.
> Estate tours: Explore the horse stables, pool cabanas and limousine garage at the former Stranahan estate. Until 6:30 p.m. July 5.
> Prairie Flower Power: See the “colorful array of summer blooms.” July 12.
> Insect Safari: Learn which insects live in Wildwood and why they’re so successful. July 19.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Moon Jar Savings Program: This program is a first step in teaching young children about money; they will learn to save using their very own banks.
> 7-8 p.m. July 7, Sanger Branch Library, 3030 W. Central Ave. Registration: (419) 259-5295.
> 2 p.m. July 8, Point Place Branch Library, 2727 117th St. Registration: (419) 259-5390.
> 2 p.m. July 14, Toledo Heights Branch Library, 423 Shasta Dr. (419) 259-5220.
> 2-2:45 p.m. July 21, Sylvania Branch Library, 6749 Monroe St., Sylvania. (419) 882-2089.

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

Family Center Gallery Tours: These tours are coordinated with an art project to be completed in the center. 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays and 1:30 p.m. Thursdays, TMA, 2445 Monroe St. (419) 255-8000.
> July 7 and 9: Animals in Art.
> July 14 and 16: Gods and Goddesses.
> July 21 and 23: Kings, Queens, and Castles.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Way-Out Wednesdays: A different craft or game is planned each week. 2 p.m. July 8 and 15, Toledo Heights Branch Library, 423 Shasta Dr. (419) 259-5220.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mini Tote Bags: Teens will decorate their own small canvas bags. Supplies will be provided.
> 3 p.m. July 9, Maumee Branch Library, 501 River Road, Maumee. (419) 259-5360.
> 3-4 p.m. July 16, West Toledo Branch Library, 1320 Sylvania Ave. Registration: (419) 259-5290.
> Kids 11 and younger: 3 p.m. July 16, South Branch Library, 1736 Broadway. (419) 259-5395.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kempo Martial Arts: Karate will provide teen participants a unique forum for self-expression through a disciplined venue. 4-5 p.m. July 13, Kent Branch Library, 3101 Collingwood Blvd. (419) 259-5283.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Parking Lot Party: Celebrate the branch’s new parking lot with food, games and Banjo the Clown. He and the kids will write and perform an original song. 3:30 p.m. July 15, Birmingham Branch Library, 203 Paine Ave. (419) 259-5210.

RuneScape: A lucky participant will get to play this role-playing game on the big screen. 2-3 p.m. July 15, Heatherdowns Branch Library, 3265 Glanzman Road. (419) 259-5270.

Clownin’ Around: Balloon animals, stories, silliness and, of course, clowns will abound.
> 2 p.m. July 15, Locke Branch Library, 703 Miami St. (419) 259-5310.
> 10-11 a.m. July 17, Wayman Palmer YMCA 2053 N. 14th St. (419) 259-5315.

LEGO Contests & Championship: A number of branches will hold preliminary contests; the winners in grades three-five will face off in a 30-minute “things that take you places” challenge.
> 2-3:15 p.m. July 15, Sylvania Branch Library, 6749 Monroe St., Sylvania. Registration: (419) 882-2089.
> 2 p.m. July 21, Toledo Heights Branch Library, 423 Shasta Dr. (419) 259-5220.

History and Hardtack: Uniformed re-enactors interpret life in the army during the War of 1812. 2-2:45 p.m. July 16, Heatherdowns Branch Library, 3265 Glanzman Road. (419) 259-5270.

Wildlife at Sidecut Metropark: A park naturalist will tell teens about the wildlife in the local metropark. 3 p.m. July 16, Maumee Branch Library, 501 River Road, Maumee. (419) 259-5360.

Meet Me at Metroparks: Down by the Creek Bank. Learn “how time and people have changed the park” and see its plant and animal life. 6-8 p.m. July 16, Swan Creek Preserve Metropark’s Yager Center, Airport Highway between Byrne and Reynolds Roads. $5. Reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

Teen Time Gaming: Youths can play video games on the big screen or old-school board games. 3-5 p.m. July 16, Locke Branch Library, 703 Miami St. (419) 259-5310.

Sand Art: Can’t make it to the beach? Get some sand with this project. 7-8 p.m. July 16, Point Place Branch Library, 2727 117th St. Registration: (419) 259-5390.

Fun with “Max and Ruby”: Stories of the little rabbits, plus games and crafts.
10-10:45 a.m. and 1:30-2:15 p.m. July 17, Way Public Library, 101 E. Indiana Ave., Perrysburg. Registration: (419) 874-3135 or www.waylibrary.info.

Kite Flyers Weekend: Nylon, paper and silk will flutter and zip through the sky over the lake. July 17-19, Maumee Bay State Park, 1400 State Park Road, Oregon. (419) 836-7758.

Hot Summer, Cool Fun: Parents and their kids can learn about what’s new in the collection, then try their hands at making their own masterpieces at this family camp. 1-3 p.m. July 18, TMA, 2445 Monroe St. $25 for parent-child pairs; additional children are $5. Reservations: (419) 254-5080.

Macy’s Meet the Experts: Make-up consultations, demonstrations and free samples from all of Macy’s make-up counters will be available. July 18, Macy’s Court, Westfield Franklin Park, 5001 Monroe St. (419) 473-3317 or www.westfield.com/franklinpark.

River Ball Race: Whose ball will float fastest? Dozens of numbered balls will win prizes for their “sponsors.” Proceeds benefit the Sylvania Youth Conservation Corps, which maintains and improves public spaces. 1:30 p.m. July 18, river deck, Harroun Community Park, Main Street/St. Joseph Catholic Church parking lot, Sylvania. $2.50 or 5 for $10. (419) 885-8992.

July Jam: This event will celebrate 20 years of the Perrysburg Area Arts Council with music, food and more. 5-11:30 p.m. July 18, 100 block West South Boundary Street, Perrysburg. $4. (419) 873-2787 or www.perrysburgarts.org.

Hammer Time: A blacksmith will forge silver into decorative and useful items, annealing sterling silver and hammering it into its final forms. 1-4 p.m. July 18, Isaac Ludwig Mill, Providence Metropark, 13827 US 24 West (at SR 578), Grand Rapids.

National Alliance on Mental Illness Kickoff Picnic: Anyone can attend to find out how to support mental health awareness and the upcoming fundraising walk. Food and activities are planned. 9 a.m.-noon July 18, Northcoast Behavioral Healthcare, 930 S. Detroit Ave. (419) 243-1119 or www.namitoledo.org.

Corn Crazy: Celebrate the ears’ harvest with recipes, a cooking demonstration and samples and corn-on-the-cob eating and counting contests. 9 a.m. July 18, Toledo Farmers’ Market, 525 Market St. (419) 255-6765 or www.toledofarmersmarket.org.

Ultimate Air Dogs Ohio championship: UAD president and former Detroit Tigers pitcher Milt Wilcox and his dog Sparky will demonstrate this sport for Spot. Local pups will get the chance to compete, racing down a dock and plunging into a pool, each trying to fly the farthest. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. July 18-19, The Andersons, 4701 Talmadge Road. (419) 473-3232 or www.ultimateairdogs.net.

Tinkering with Tin: An expert tinsmith will demonstrate using historic tools to create candleholders and lamps. 1-4 p.m. July 18 and 25, Isaac Ludwig Mill, Providence Metropark, 13827 US 24 West (at SR 578), Grand Rapids.

Spa Day: Mini-facials and manicures will be available for teenage girls. 2-3 p.m. July 20, Mott Branch Library, 1085 Dorr St. (419) 259-5230.

Nature’s Nursery: Learn how injured and orphaned wild animals get the help they need. 2-2:45 p.m. July 20, Oregon Branch Library, 3340 Dustin Road, Oregon.

Dreamcatcher Craft: Beads, string, feathers and other materials will be provided to make these dream nets. 2-3 p.m. July 20, Toledo Heights Branch Library, 423 Shasta Dr. (419) 259-5220.

Tiny Treats for Teens: Bitty bites, small snacks and nano noshes will be served. 2 p.m. July 20, Waterville Branch Library, 800 Michigan Ave., Waterville. Registration: (419) 878-3055.

Hardware Jewelry: Teens will use nuts and washers to make wearable stuff. 7 p.m. July 20, Oregon Branch Library, 3340 Dustin Road, Oregon. (419) 259-5250.

Reading with Fingers: Discuss Braille and blindness and witness what a Seeing Eye dog does and what their major purposes are. 3-4 p.m. July 20, Kent Branch Library, 3101 Collingwood Blvd. (419) 259-5283.

A Creative Bottle: Find the message or anything else hidden in a bottle to win. Noon-9 July 20-21 and 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. July 22-25 South Branch Library, 1736 Broadway. (419) 259-5395.

Magic classes: David Sieja, Toledo Society of Magicians, will conduct workshops, with a concluding performance at 7 p.m. July 29. July 20, 22, 27 and 29: Two beginning sessions for kids ages 9-12, 10-10:30 or 10:45-11:15 a.m.; 11:30 a.m.-noon for second-year students ages 10-13; and 12:15-12:45 p.m. for advanced students ages 11-14. Lower level meeting rooms A and B, Way Public Library, 101 E. Indiana Ave., Perrysburg. Registration: (419) 874-3135 or www.waylibrary.info.

Got Books? Holland Branch Library will sponsor a digital photo contest. Entrants should capture someone reading or being read to and e-mailing the photos to the library. Entries will be displayed at the library. Prizes are possible! July 20-Sept. 5, 1032 S. McCord Road, Holland. (419) 259-5240.

Creative Paper Making: Melinda Lesniewicz from Keep Toledo-Lucas County Beautiful will demonstrate how to make writing material from recycled papers. 2:30 p.m. July 21, West Toledo Branch Library, 1320 Sylvania Ave. Registration: (419) 259-5290.

Chopstick Knitting: Learn the basics of knitting without spending money on needles until you’re sure you can do it. This class will cover basic stitches all knitters learn. 10:30 a.m. July 21, West Toledo Branch Library, 1320 Sylvania Ave. (419) 259-5290.

Potluck and Game Day: Kids 11 and younger will create crafts and play games 2 p.m. July 21, Maumee Branch Library, 501 River Road, Maumee. Registration: (419) 259-5360.

Fit for Royalty: The Teen Divas will host a day of glamour and games for queens and kings 11 and younger. 1-2 p.m. July 21, Mott Branch Library, 1085 Dorr St. (419) 259-5230.

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

Silver Screen Classics: Classic movies at classic prices. 1 p.m. Mondays, Showcase Cinemas Levis Commons, 2005 Hollenbeck Dr., Perrysburg. $2. (419) 891-5039.
> “Eternally Yours,” July 6.
> “At War With the Army,” July 13.
> “Beat the Devil,” July 20.

Movie Madness: Visitors bring the sodas, the popcorn’s provided at this series of G-rated Disney flicks. 6:30 p.m. Mondays, Maumee Branch Library, 501 River Road, Maumee. (419) 259-5360.
> “Blackbeard’s Ghost,” July 6.
> “No Deposit No Return,” July 13.
> “Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo,” July 20.

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

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

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

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

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

MUSIC
Blarney Irish Pub: Catch local acts while taking in the pub’s modern Irish and American fare. 601 Monroe St. (419) 418-2339 or www.theblarneyirishpub.com.
> Shane Piasecki: July 4.
> Jeff Steward: July 9.
> Trailer Park Ninjas: July 10.
> Celtic Cross: July 11.
> Sam DeArmond: July 16.
> Stone House: July 17
> Chris Shutters Band: July 18.

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.
> Dave Carpenter, Jaeglers: July 4.
> River Edge: July 9.
> Swamp Kings: July 10.
> Crucial 420: July 11.
> Joe Wood Band: July 16.
> Russel Martin, Relics: July 17.
> Stone House: July 18.

Fat Fish Blue: Serving blues and similar sounds, as well as bayou-style grub. Levis Commons, 6140 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg. (419) 931-3474.
> Roomful of Blues: 8:30 p.m. July 9, $18.
> Malkum Gibson and the Mighty Juke: 9:30 p.m. July 10 and 8:30 p.m. July 11, $2.
> The Jeff Williams Group Jam Session: 8 p.m. July 15, $1.
> Bourbon Street: 9:30 p.m. July 17, $2.
> Suburban Legend, 8:30 p.m. July 18, $2.

Frankie’s: Toledo’s venue for rock. 308 Main St. (419) 693-5300 or www.FrankiesInnerCity.com.
> Baron Von Birk: 10 p.m. July 4.
> T-Town Tuesday: Infernal Names, Rocketboys, Dear Future. 9 p.m. July 7, $2-$4.
> School Boy Humor, Action Item, the Fritz: 6 p.m. July 8, $8-$10.
> All the Day Holiday, Kaleidescope Brighter, All Get Out: 6 p.m. July 9, $6-$8.
> Olivia Mancini & the Mates, Matt Truman Ego Trip: 9 p.m. July 9, $5-$7.
> Stephan Jerzak, Breathe Electric, Romance on a Rocketship, Chase Coy: 4 p.m. July 10, $8-$10.
> The Movement, Jason LaPorte Trio, Harry & the Hood: 9 p.m. July 10, $6-$8.
> Boogaloosa Prayer, the Zimmerman Twins, Joey and the Traitors: 9 p.m. July 11, $6-$8.
> Unearth, For the Fallen Dreams, Woe of Tyrants, Starring Janet Leigh: 7 p.m. July 14, $15-$19.
> Between the Trees, Goot, What Happened in Vegas: 7 p.m. July 15, $8-$10.
> Xrin Arms, My Family Needs Food, South Reach: 9 p.m. July 15, $5-$7.
> Baricade: 5 p.m. July 16, $6-$8.
> Chavar Dontae, Zach Deputy, Ashes, Bartones: 9 p.m. July 17, $5-$7.
> Grand Buffet: 9 p.m. July 18, $5-$8.
> Deal’s Gone Bad, the Red Bags, Javelin Dance: 8 p.m. July 19, $8-$10.

Headliners: All ages, all genres are welcome. 4500 N. Detroit Ave. (419) 269-4500 or www.headlinerstoledo.com.
> Karate High School: 7 p.m. July 21, 48-$10.

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.
> Ed Levy Trio: July 9.
> Yes, I Said Yes: July 10.
> Swamp Kings: July 11.
> Quartet Bernadette: 6 p.m. July 15.
> Quick Trio: July 16.
> Extra Stout: July 17.
> Dave Carpenter & the Jaeglers: July 18.
> Cynthia Kay Bennett: 6 p.m. July 20.

Mickey Finn’s: A variety of genres to wash your drinks down with. Open mic nights (no cover), 8 p.m. Wednesdays. 9 p.m., 602 Lagrange Street at North Huron Street. $5-$7 cover. (419) 297-1943.
> Mouths of Dogs: July 8, 15, 22, 29, 31.
> The Falling Spikes: July 9, 16, 23.
> Ormo, NFNF, Mr. Leg: July 10.
> Jeffest: Bathhouse Betty, Killer Tomatoes, Matt Truman, Andy Clark Band, Zimmerman Twins, UTR, Dougouts, Intolerance, CL1, Shadows in Red, Violet Crush. 2 p.m. July 11-2 a.m., $10.
> Bill Grogan’s Goat: July 17.
> City Under Siege, Church of the Red Museum: July 18.

Murphy’s Place: Jazz @@ straight, smooth, bebop or traditional @@ all kinds are played here. 151 Water St. (419) 241-7732 or www.murphysplacejazz.com.
> Fireworks, plus Clifford Murphy and Claude Black: open at 5 p.m. July 4.

Omni: Toledo’s newest club is a venue for music (and music lovers) of all types. 2567 W. Bancroft St. (419) 474-1333.
> Jani Lane of Warrant: 7:30 p.m. July 10, $10.
> Hollywood Undead, Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, the Sleeping, Mest: 6 p.m. July 14, $20-$25.
> Ozzmosis: 7:30 p.m. July 17, $7.

Ottawa Tavern: Casual meals with weekend entertainment. 1815 Adams St. (419) 725-5483 or www.otavern.com.
> The Real Magicians: July 4.
> Ben Barefoot: July 9.
> Stone House: July 10.
> Jason Quick: July 16.
> Jeff Stewart & the 25s: July 17.
> Young Artists at Work: July 18.

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

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

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

Courtyard Concerts: Beats are paired with eats for this music series: each day’s music features food from a specific eatery. 1:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesdays through Aug. 4, Latham Courtyard, South Main and East Sandusky streets, Findlay.
> One Way Out Band/Katie’s Kids Cafe: July 7.
> Johnathon Peeler/Great Scot: July 14.
> Chris Buzzelli/Tavern at the Inn: July 21.

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

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

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

Summer concert series: Music lovers are invited to bring lawn chairs, blankets, friends and family for live tunes. 6-8 p.m. Saturdays, Lake District amphitheater, Shops at Fallen Timbers, 3100 Main St., Maumee. (419) 878-6255 or www.theshopsatfallentimbers.com.
> July 4: Good Stuff Maynard.
> July 11: Empire Drift.
> July 18: Tom Turner & Slow Burn.

Club Friday: Some of the city’s most talented performers entertain museum-goers during TMA’s It’s Friday events. 6:30-9:30 p.m., Peristyle Terrace, 2445 Monroe St. (419) 255-8000.
> July 10: It’s Essential (R&B, jazz).
> July 17: Shane Piasecki (alternative).

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

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

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

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

Jazz in the Garden: The joint (and the junipers) will jump with the sounds of area bebop, smooth and ragtime jazz musicians. 6:30-8:30 p.m. July 9 and 16 Toledo Botanical Garden, 5403 Elmer Dr. $6-$7. (419) 241-5299 or (419) 536-5566.

Music Under the Stars: Free, themed performances featuring the Toledo Symphony. 7:30 p.m. July 12 and 19, Toledo Zoo Amphitheatre, 2700 Broadway. (419) 241-1272.

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

A Night With the Queen: Wanda Jackson. This “first grand lady of rock ‘n’ roll” sang alongside Elvis Presley, wails rockabilly hits and is a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. 6 p.m. July 16, Henry Ford Museum, 20900 Oakwood Blvd., Dearborn, Mich. $10 (advance)-$15. (313) 982-6001 or (800) 835-5237.

Centennial Terrace concerts: This venue provides unique acoustics (it’s the quarry that does it). 5773 Centennial Road, Sylvania. (419) 882-1500.
> War and Average White Band: 7 p.m. July 16, $25-$50.
> Ekoostic Hookah: 8 p.m.-midnight July 17, $10.

Noon Tunes: Al fresco outdoor concerts; picnics are welcome. Noon-1 July 17 and 24, Wildwood Preserve Metropark gazebo, in front of the Manor House, 5100 W. Central Ave. (419) 535-3056.

Toledo Speedway Jam: Dickey Betts (of the Allman Brothers Band) and Great Southern, Badfinger, Hunter Brucks Band, Tom Treece and Crosspoint will perform. July 18, ARCA/Toledo Speedway, 5639 Benore Rd. $15-$25. (419) 727-1100, (800) 585-3737, or www.toledospeedwayjam.com.

Ragtime Street Fair: Celebrate the early “jazz age” of 20th-century America’s first decades with dancing, music, drama, parades and fantastic food. 9:30 a.m.-9 p.m. July 18 and 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. July 19, Greenfield Village, 20900 Oakwood Blvd., Dearborn, Mich. $16-$22; $5 parking. (313) 982-6001 or (800) 835-5237.

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

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

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

Maumee River Canoe Float: “Explore the scenic Maumee River” from its surface. 1-2:30 p.m. July 18, Farnsworth Metropark boat launch, 8505 S. River Road (Route 24), Waterville. $10. Call for restrictions and reservations: (419) 407-9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

Express Girls Individual Volleyball Camp: Netsters in grades four-12 can learn fundamentals from Owens Community College’s women’s volleyball program. 9-11:30 a.m. July 13-15 for grades four-seven and 12:30-4 p.m. July 13-15 for grades eight-12, Student Health and Activities Center, 30335 Oregon Road, Perrysburg. (567) 661-7939 or (800) 466-9367, ext. 7939.

STAGE
Connxtions Comedy Club: Comedians bring their best yuks for your amusement. 5319 Heatherdowns Blvd. $12-$14. (unless noted otherwise). (419) 867-9041.
> Cal Verduchi: 8 p.m. July 9-11 and 10 p.m. July 10-11.
> Greg Lausch: 8 p.m. July 16-18 and 10 p.m. July 17-18.

Funny Bone: 6140 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg. $12-$14, unless noted otherwise. (419) 931-3474.
> James Sibley: 9 p.m. July 4 and 7 p.m. July 5.
> The Around the Bend Players: 7:30 p.m. July 8, $8.
> Untamed Shrews: 7 p.m. July 9 and 12; 8 and 10:30 p.m. July 10; and 7 and 10 p.m. July 11.
> Roy Wood Jr.: 7 p.m. July 16 and 19; 8 and 10:30 p.m. July 17; and 7 and 10 p.m. July 18.

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

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

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

“The Little Mermaid”: Will this fishy tale, about a young merperson who wants to try life on dry land, have a happy ending? Chances are pretty good in this musical, the culmination of the Youtheathre summer performing arts camp. 7 p.m. July 17 and 4 p.m. July 18, First Presbyterian Church, 2330 S. Main St., Findlay. $3-$5. (419) 422-4624.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Metroparks Bicycle Tour: Riders can visit up to four parks (Secor, Farnsworth, Providence and Oak Openings) on routes totaling 15, 32, 62 or 100 miles. 7 a.m. July 18, Fallen Timbers Middle School, 6119 Finzel Rd., Whitehouse. $5-$25. (419) 410-0087, (419) 243-7680 or www.hitoledo.org.

Six Toledo Chinese restaurants named in nation’s ‘Top 100’

Caitlin McGlade — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 05:00:34 +0000

Pick up the chopsticks — out of 1,900 nominated Chinese restaurants across the nation, six in Toledo were named in the top 100 by Chinese Restaurant News Magazine, a popular publication amongst Chinese restaurant owners and fans.
“We saw there were so many good Chinese restaurants and the image of Chinese restaurants in mainstream America is not that good,” said Christy Tan, one of the editors of Top 100 Chinese Restaurants in the U.S.A. “For us, we have a long history of fine dining, but the image is more like fast food and that’s not really authentic.”

Chifu Sun prepares food at Jing Chaun Restaurant on Secor Road.

The Sixth Annual Dining Guide of 2009 included China Garden on Airport Highway, China Garden on Alexis Road, Happy Rose Buffet on Airport Highway, Jing Chuan Chinese Restaurant, Ocean Garden Buffet and Happy Rose Buffet on Monroe Street in the top 100.
“Mystery Diners” from a company called AboutFace secretly tried each restaurant that was nominated through the Top 100 Web site and ranked each site by variety and quality of the food, cleanliness and customer service, Tan said.
Judges also determined winners by collecting votes from people who submitted online or at the restaurant, factoring in prior awards and evaluating the merit of the restaurant as a whole, she said.
Restaurants did not pay a fee to be included in the book.
Chifu Sun, owner of Jin Chuan Chinese Restaurant on Secor Road, said this is his second time receiving the award.
A third-generation restaurant owner, Sun said that his recipes came from his grandparents, who owned a restaurant in China, and his chef experience came from his parents’ restaurant in Korea.
“In most American Chinese restaurants, the food is real close to what American food is like; it’s about 30 percent Chinese and 70 percent American,” he said. “Our food is more like 60 percent Chinese and 40 percent American.”
An average meal at Jing Chuan costs about $10, and his chefs make everything from scratch, he said.
The Ocean Garden Buffet, also family-owned, serves both American and Asian food totaling 250 different menu items. From sushi to egg rolls to steak or ice cream, family manager Christina Chen said they serve everyone’s tastes.
“We have a really nice environment, and every customer is surprised when they see the quality of our food,” Chen said, adding that most people don’t expect buffets to get awarded amongst the top 100.
Chinese Restaurant News Magazine began 15 years ago and helps new Chinese restaurant owners understand how to run a business in the United States. and how to connect with other owners across the country, Tan said.
“Many people think they just prefer one or two Chinese dishes, but we do have a lot of variety,” she said.
The awards were broken into different specialized areas of Chinese food that each restaurant emulated.
The book listed China Garden on Airport Highway as presenting American Chinese, Sichuan Chinese, food from a Chinese province particularly known for spiciness, and Cantonese, the leading cuisine in Hong Kong.
China Garden on Alexis Road was noted for its presentation of Sichuan as well, and both the Happy Rose Buffet and Ocean Garden Buffet were listed for tasty American-Chinese food.

Proposal offers tax credit for first-time home buyers

Duane Ramsey — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 04:00:59 +0000

Former City Council President Rob Ludeman has proposed an income tax credit for first-time home buyers in Toledo, with a goal of stimulating home sales and generating income for the City of Toledo.
“One reason the city is in a difficult financial situation is that its payroll income tax does not come close to generating enough revenue to operate the city in the black,” Ludeman stated in his proposal. He is running for an at-large seat on council.
Less than 60 percent of city residents actually pay income tax due to high unemployment, disability and retirement, according to conversations Ludeman said he has had with various city officials.
The federal government has a real estate stimulus, offering first-time home buyers as much as $8,000 with the purchase of a house.
Ludeman proposes the City of Toledo create its own real estate stimulus program by abating a portion of the city income tax to buyers purchasing property in the city for the first time as their primary residence. A first-time buyer would be one who has not owned a home in Toledo for three years, according to his proposal.
People purchasing a home in Toledo for the first time would be granted a reduction from the current payroll income tax of 2.25 percent to 1.5 percent. Saving three quarters of a percent would stimulate buyers to purchase homes and live in Toledo, Ludeman said.
“I’m taking a different approach with a proposal to raise revenues by decreasing taxes. If we can cut taxes and increase revenues for the city, we should consider it,” Ludeman said.
There are about 2,000 houses for sale in Toledo, according to the Multiple Listing Service. About 85 percent of those homes are vacant due to relocation for job transfer, foreclosure, estate or guardianship, retirement or moving to assisted living facilities, according to research Ludeman said he conducted.
Since those vacant houses are generating no income tax at this time, bringing buyers and new homeowners to Toledo would generate tax revenue from the 1.5 percent still paid by those buyers under his plan, Ludeman said.
His proposal suggests abatement for five years, the typical length of time a first-time homeowner lives in a property. If the next home purchase would be in Toledo, the homeowner could continue the income tax abatement for an additional five years.
“Anything we can do to strengthen our housing stock is something to consider,” said George Sarantou, chairman of city council’s finance committee. “I will certainly take a very thorough look at his proposal.”
Ludeman’s proposal offered an example of a vacant home purchased for $80,000 by first-time buyers with a combined income of $60,000. The tax revenue for the city would be $900 annually for five years, generating $4,500 in revenue with tax savings of $450 per year or $2,250 over five years for the homeowner.
If only 50 percent of the vacant houses were purchased and occupied using the previous example, $900 from 1,000 homeowners would bring $900,000 in additional tax revenue annually to the City of Toledo, according to Ludeman’s plan.
The tax savings of $450 for 1,000 homeowners would provide $450,000 of extra income to be saved, spent or used to remodel the house. The $8,000 federal stimulus for actual first-time buyers would generate additional buying power in Toledo.
Ludeman previously served on city council for 14 years with the last 18 months as its president. He sells real estate for The Danberry Company in Toledo.

Hospital class helps asthma sufferers with coping skills

Allison Wingate — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 04:00:58 +0000

Jenna Biggs is no ordinary girl.
Every day, the 11-year-old fights a continuous battle against asthma, an affliction she has suffered from since she was a baby.
In fact, her whole family is affected by it, her father has had asthma since a child and her mother developed it in her 20s.
The chronic condition affects nearly 6.8 million children under the age of 18 in the United States and accounts for one of the most common causes of school absenteeism, according to the American Lung Association. The association concludes that asthma is the third-leading cause in hospitalization in children under 15 with the highest prevalence rate seen in children ages 5 to 17.
But asthma education classes at the Toledo Hospital have helped Jenna get a handle on her treatments and eased her worry about attacks, keeping her in school and active.

Mary Beth Shearman, Certified Asthma Educator and Respiratory Therapist, talks with Jenna Biggs, 11.

ProMedica Asthma Educator Mary Beth Shearman taught Jenna how to notice warning signs and how to administer her own medication. Shearman also helped Jenna come up with a “plan of action” for when she is experiencing an attack to help her choose what medications she needs to take and when.
Among some factors that trigger Jenna’s asthma are secondhand smoke, cold weather and air pollution. Seasonal triggers are pollen and humidity. When she feels an attack approaching, she has a difficult time breathing and experiences wheezing and coughing. She covers her mouth to avoid these triggers.
Jenna uses preventative medicines Advair and Singulair on a daily basis and uses her “puffer” of albuterol as needed.
“I take them in the morning and at night every single day.” she said, “Sometimes they work; sometimes they don’t.”
Her mother Lori, a registered nurse, appreciates the extra help the classes gave her, she said.
“As a mom, when you’re working and taking care of other children, it’s hard to give care to her as much as she needs,” she said. “They have a special way of helping kids individually with real family-centered care.”
Despite her asthma, Jenna is active and continues to enjoy her hobbies of swimming and horseback riding. She simply takes precautions to avoid any factors that would trigger an attack, a lesson she learned from an instructional video in asthma education class, she said.
“It doesn’t really bother me anymore,” Jenna said.
Jenna has reassuring advice for other children who have asthma.
“You shouldn’t be afraid if you have your medicine,” Jenna said. “Don’t be afraid to use it.”
Shearman hopes more asthma patients will take advantage of their follow-up care programs.
“It’s very important for children and adults with asthma to keep in close contact with their physician and to get the testing they need to get. We have any number of programs to help people with whatever need they have, be it pulmonary-function testing or smoking cessation classes.”
For more information, call the Asthma Education Department at the Toledo Hospital at (419) 291-5474.

Treece blog: Living beyond means

Dock David Treece — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 04:00:53 +0000

Recently released numbers from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis show that the US once again has an increasing personal savings rate. Unfortunately, this rate has been declining for decades as Americans began living increasingly beyond their means.

On more than one occasion the savings rate even dipped into negative territory, meaning that America’s population in aggregate was borrowing more than it was saving. This high consumption rate in turn has led to excessive borrowing, which was the ultimate cause of the financial crisis that occurred last year.

Generation Y, my generation, seems to have particular difficulty saving money. First off, we’re still relatively young, and young people in general are less inclined to think long term. However, young adults today are worse than previous generations in that they see disposable income and no need to save a portion.

This inability to save is partially the fault of parents. Many simply never taught their kids to save. Mine was the generation of the allowance. Parents thought they were teaching us a lesson and that by giving us a defined amount for any given period, we would learn to budget. Instead, kids got their allowance and viewed every cent as spending money.

To people who never think about the benefits of saving, allow me to introduce the 8th Wonder of the World: Compound Interest. Consider the following examples:

1. Let’s say that at age 25 a person had accumulated $10,000 to invest. If they can earn, say 10% per year for round numbers, on average, how much will he have at age 60, assuming he never contributes another dollar?
2. What if that same person waited until age 30? How much would they have at 60 then?
3. And if they waited until age 35, what’s there at 60?

The answers can be found at the end of the blog. Keep in mind that those results reflect growth with no additional savings. To see even more phenomenal results, consider the following:

4. Let’s say I have a friend who’s 25 years old and has little or no savings to date. Realizing the predicament he may face in the future, he has decided to adjust his spending habits to start saving $100 per week. While this is no large sum, let’s say he continues this pattern of saving for the next 35 years. Assuming 52 weeks per year and an average annual return of 10%, how much will my friend have when he’s 60?

The real concept here is to let your money work for you. For continued reading on the subject, we strongly recommend Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki, which explains accounting and saving in terms that are much easier to understand than textbooks.

The lesson here is simple: Save early. By putting money back early on, you allow it to accumulate over an extended period of time with little or no extra work. The reality is that the young adulthood comprises some of the prime saving years. It’s the time before we start our own families and have kids, while living expenses are relatively lower. This is the time before diapers, toys, babysitters, Disney World, and, if they’re lucky enough, kid’s college tuition, room and board, etc.

The bottom line is to save early so you can afford to live better later on. And, perhaps most importantly, when you do have kids, pass the lesson on. Don’t make them learn the hard way.

Answers: 1. $ 281,024 2. $174,494 3. $108,347 4. $1,550,259

Dock David Treece is a stockbroker licensed with FINRA. He works for Treece Financial Services Corp., www.TreeceInvestments.com. The above information is the express opinion of Dock David Treece and should not be used without outside verification.

Mayoral math

Tom Pounds — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 04:00:49 +0000

Nearly 42,000 Toledoans voted in the 2005 mayoral primary election. That race featured eventual winner Carty Finkbeiner and then-incumbent Jack Ford nudging out late entrant Keith Wilkowski.
This September, there will be at least five major choices on the mayoral ballot. We can hope and assume more voters will turn out for the primary; let’s say as many as 50,000 cast their votes.
With longtime police officer and Toledo City Councilman D. Michael Collins running as an independent, that number is now open to be split at least five ways. Mike Bell, Ben Konop, Jim Moody and Wilkowski just found themselves fighting even more fiercely for every vote. The early read so far is that Wilkowski has been consistent with his message; Konop has been masterful at keeping himself in the news; Bell is steady but not making great splashes; and Moody is doing his best to rally the area’s Republican minority.
If 50,000 votes are cast and end up being split, a candidate could theoretically survive to the top two with as few as 11,000 votes. This tight scenario opens the door for the wildest of wild cards, current Mayor Finkbeiner. A savvy and opportunistic politician, Carty has to see that he could now enter the race, further split the vote and make the cut into the top two with maybe as few as 9,000 votes. Despite the controversies, opposition and recall effort, it would be risky to bet against 9,000 or 10,000 people still being willing to vote for Carty. He undoubtedly has the war chest and the signs in storage; Collins’ entering the race may have opened the door for Carty in a way neither of them would have imagined a few weeks ago.
If there are any more surprise entrants before the mid-July deadline, the mathematical threshold is lowered even further. This mayoral primary seems primed for a surprise, and if there is one thing Carty’s supporters will tell you, it’s that he is full of surprises.

Thomas F. Pounds is president and publisher of Toledo Free Press. Contact him at tpounds@toledofreepress.com.

School’s out: Have a safe summer

Dean Sparks — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 04:00:47 +0000

School is out for the children around Lucas County, and one can hear the collective cheers and shouts as kids look forward to a summer of fun and freedom.
At the same time, the end of the school year can be a worrisome time for parents. When school is in session, parents know their kids are safe and cared for during the school day, and in the hours after class for kids using the many fine after-school programs across our community.
When school ends, parents may find themselves scrambling for appropriate care for their children during the workday — especially for adolescents and young teens who might balk at the idea of having a babysitter.
Letting them stay home alone or with younger brothers and sisters can be a tempting option — both to you, as a parent, and to some children, who might think they’re ready to take on the world. But before you walk out the door and leave them to their own devices, there are few things to keep in mind.
Ohio doesn’t specify how old a child must be to be left home alone. Much depends on the child’s level of maturity and responsibility. Some preteens may be mature enough to be left home alone for a few hours, while some older teens can’t resist getting into trouble while their parents are away. Other children might be comfortable alone on their own but aren’t ready to handle the responsibility of caring for younger brothers or sisters.
Before making a decision on whether to leave your children home alone, ask yourself three questions: Are they physically capable of caring for themselves and/or other kids? Are they intellectually able to handle the demands of being on their own? Are they socially or emotionally ready to be alone for several hours at a time?
Obviously, young children should never be left home alone. But would your 10-, 11- or 12-year-old know what to do and be physically able to respond to an emergency? Does he or she know how to call 911? How to lock the doors and windows? Use basic household appliances, like a microwave, toaster oven or can opener? If your child has difficulty with any of these tasks, then he/she may not be ready to be left home alone.
A child staying home alone should have the intellectual maturity to understand and describe your house rules or safety procedures. The child should be able to give and follow directions and both read and write a message. You should be confident in your child’s ability to solve basic problems and make good decisions — even if that decision is calling you for more direction or reaching out to a trusted neighbor. Make sure you’ve established those relationships with neighbors that the child can call ahead of time and that your child knows how to reach you. Knowing whether or not to open the door to a stranger, or what information to give out to an unknown phone caller, will make all the difference in your child’s safety.
While many children will bravely say they want to be left home alone, once you’re gone, they may feel differently. The sounds of wind rattling a window, or a thunderstorm, can turn an empty home into a scary place for some kids. Make sure your child feels good about being left home alone. Make sure they’re confident in their ability to take care of themselves and comfortable with not having anyone to talk to. The Internet, television and video games are not necessarily their best companions. Agree up front with your child on the rules for these activities, or whether your child can play outside when you’re not around.
Again, there is no magic age at which your child can safely stay home alone. Perhaps the most important thing parents can do is to keep the lines of communication open. Parents should know where their kids are, what they are doing and who they are with at all times. Above all, make sure they know that they can always talk to you about what went on during their day.

Dean Sparks is Lucas County Children Services executive director.

DC revisits old idea for new project

Jim Beard — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 04:00:45 +0000

Imagine a comic book measuring 14″ by 20″. Difficult? The more seasoned among us may remember the grand old Sunday comics sections of newspapers from the first half of the 20th century that delivered the funnies at that size. There’s something of those days that DC Comics hopes to echo when it releases “Wednesday Comics” this July 8th.

This is comics writ large. Printed on whopping 28″ by 20″ newsprint sheets, “Wednesday Comics” will present fifteen different strips, each on their own 14″ by 20″ section, and the whole shebang will be folded twice before it hits your local comic shop, not unlike a newspaper. In this day and age of comics printed at the standard 6 ½” by 10 ¼” on deluxe paper and hoarded pristinely into acid-free protective bags, this format’s downright Mesozoic - and pretty chancy for DC.

Seems a DC editor was waxing poetically one day about the grand old storytelling of pre-television days and pitched the idea of doing a new version of Sunday strips yet with a DC’s own super-star characters. The project’s meant to be another way to cross over into the mainstream and rope in those who don’t normally read comics. To bolster that high-minded ideal, “Wednesday Comics” will deliver every single one of its stories “outside continuity,” as we say in the industry. That is, adventures that requite no foreknowledge of the characters nor their past adventures. Yep, DC claims anyone can jump onboard and I for one thank them for that; it sold The Little Woman on the series and we plan to read each issue together. Who says there’s no more romance in the world?

Why “Wednesday Comics,” you ask? New comic books are released every Wednesday at comic shops across the country and DC hopes to make the day even more something to look forward to. For twelve weeks, readers will see characters like Superman, Batman, Green Lantern, Hawkman, Sgt. Rock, the Teen Titans and others in gigantic tales told by such creators as Neil Gaiman, Dave Gibbons, Joe Kubert, Kurt Busiek and even Bowling Green, Ohio’s own Paul Pope.

I’ll be reviewing each and every issue of “Wednesday Comics” at my blog, www.clippingsfromthebeard.blogspot.com and invite you to join me there every Thursday for my critiques of this bold, new experiment by one of comics’ oldest companies. You can also catch the “Superman” strip in USA Today, beginning July 8.

Independents Day

Jim Harpen — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 04:00:44 +0000

It’s the bottom of the fifth inning and it’s Independents three, Democrats and Republicans two.
Last week we saw another well-known, outspoken and credible candidate enter the race for mayor of the City of Toledo when city councilman D. Michael Collins threw his hat into the ring. With his entry into the race, the Independents now outnumber the Democrats and Republicans running for mayor.
Now, we’ve seen this before. Or more accurately, we’ve seen Independents running for mayor before. But those upstarts weren’t household names, and frankly, none stood an ice cube’s chance in hell of making it past the primary. Who remembers (or can even pronounce) Don Gozdowski? How about Martin O’Konski (with a name like that he should have nabbed the Polish and Irish vote)? The highest Independent vote-getter in the 2005 mayoral primary, with 111 votes, was Opal Covey, proof-positive that name recognition alone counts for something.
This willingness — no, preference — to run as an Independent is a sign that one of the promises made to us Toledoans long ago might finally be coming true. Back in 1992, the proponents of the plan to dump our city manager form of government and start electing a strong mayor told us that the high-powered and high-paying job of strong mayor would attract better candidates to run for the office. But then we got Carty, Carty, Ford and Carty, and we began to think that promise was a ruse, a ploy to pay the same people a lot more money and give them carte blanche to do whatever they damn well pleased. But 16 years later, we finally have some solid choices. Here are the party affiliations, nonaffiliations and notable achievements of the five main mayoral candidates:
n Mike Bell: Independent. Street cred: Former Toledo fire chief and Ohio fire marshal.
n Mike Collins: Independent. Street cred: Current city councilman, former police officer and president of the Toledo Police Patrolman’s Association.
n Ben Konop: Democrat running as an Independent. Street cred: Current county commissioner.
n Keith Wilkowski: Democrat. Street cred: Lawyer and former Toledo law director, acting city manager, Toledo School Board member, Lucas County commissioner.
n Jim Moody : Republican. Street cred: Business owner and Realtor.
Toledo, this shunning of party support is weird. But it’s a good sort of weird.
It used to be that getting the endorsement of the Lucas County Democratic or Republican Party was a virtual prerequisite to winning an office. First, you needed the money the party could raise for your campaign. Second, you wanted the network of endorsements the party could bring to your campaign from unions and other elected officials. Third, you needed the party grunts — people who will go door to door, populate your news conferences and fundraisers, staff the phone banks and will run around town making sure your competitors aren’t trashing your yard signs. That’s a lot for a candidate to voluntarily take a pass on.
And it’s not just the mayor’s race. Of the 28 people vying for the six at-large seats on city council this year, at least 13 are saying “thanks but no thanks” to the Lucas County Dems and the Repubs.
What we’re seeing is the beginning of the change we’ve all been hoping for but couldn’t figure out how to accomplish. The type of change that gives us better choices than Carty, Carty, Ford and Carty.
On a different subject:
Michael Jackson died.
National news media: Stop the presses! Forget about Iran, Pakistan, North Korean nukes and the Cap & Trade vote in congress. Pull every correspondent off of Capitol Hill and the White House. Until further notice, we’re reporting on nothing but the death of the King of Pop.
Responsible news media: Pop star Michael Jackson, who battled drug addiction for years and has been out of the public eye since his acquittal on child sexual abuse charges in 2005, died today in Los Angeles of apparent heart failure. Jackson was 50 years old.
In other news today …

E-mail columnist Jim Harpen at letters@toledofreepress.com.

Dear President Obama,

Michael Miller — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 04:00:43 +0000

Congratulations on your historic victory and thank you in advance for taking the time to read this. I know you are busy and I greatly appreciate your time.
On June 26 and 27 of this year, my family organized a modest garage sale at our home in Tecumseh, Mich. This involved the labor of myself, my wife, my wife’s brother, father and mother, and light day care for our two young sons.
The goods at the garage sale were mostly gently used baby and toddler items: strollers, walkers, bouncy seats, etc., plus the bins and bags of assorted flotsam and jetsam that you, as a father of two, are undoubtedly familiar with.
Many hours of labor went into sorting, cleaning, separating and presenting the clothes, toys and accessories that accompany modern infants and toddlers. I made sure every article of clothing was stain-free (no one likes a stain), and carefully cleaned the crumbled Cheerios, dried grape juice drops and far less pleasant souvenirs from all of the items.
We made appropriate arrangements with the City of Tecumseh, which included purchasing a $1 permit. We also contributed to the suffering daily newspaper industry by purchasing a classified ad in the (Adrian) Daily Telegram, bolstered the fine weekly newspaper industry by purchasing an ad in the Tecumseh Herald and rode the wave of technology by posting the sale on Craigslist. In addition, we purchased two red helium balloons that helpfully read, “Garage Sale” to tie to our mailbox. We patronized a local bank by taking two $20 bills and having them broken into $5, $1 and 25-cent increments.
One of our neighbors, a garage sale veteran, fashioned two professionally printed “Garage Sale” signs to two new dowel rods, and with the appropriate neighbors’ permission, staked the signs on private property lawns on street corners that lead to our subdivision.
On June 26, bargain hunters appeared at 8 a.m., although our advertised start was at 9 a.m. We were happy to accommodate the early birds and were pleased to see the clothes and toys and flotsam and jetsam associated with modern children start to disappear.
Around noon that day, an employee of the City of Tecumseh pulled into our driveway. As our garage sale permit was purchased and appropriately posted, we expected nothing more than a routine check. But in his city-owned car, he had placed both of our signs, which he pulled from the private property ground on the street corners that lead to our subdivision. He informed us that we were only allowed to have one sign posted, and that sign had to be in our yard on the private property side of the sidewalk. He also informed us that we were not allowed to fly balloons from our mailbox. One of our neighbors later told us that a couple who tied “Happy Birthday” balloons to their mailbox to direct people to a children’s party were fined $75 for doing so.
Being honest, law-abiding citizens who desire no conflict with the City of Tecumseh, we took down our balloons and placed one lonely sign in our yard on the private property side of the sidewalk. A casual driver passing by would see the collection of items displayed on borrowed card tables and probably assume he or she was passing a garage sale, but the sign really did emphasize the point.
However, with no signs on private property lawns on street corners that lead to our subdivision, only those who were scanning the newspaper or Craigslist ads knew we were having a garage sale. Our street is in the subdivision and receives no through traffic at all. As a result, the rest of June 26 and all of June 27 were washouts, with very little traffic and very few sales.
In light of this government interference into our entrepreneurial efforts, I am requesting “Garage Sale Bailout” funding from the federal stimulus package. Please see the itemized list of expenses for which we are seeking reimbursement:

Original cost of items for sale: $16,500
Lost sales in garage sale value: $400
Cost of City of Tecumseh permit: $1
Cost of classified advertising: Daily Telegram (3 days): $18, Tecumseh Herald (1 issue): $6
Clorox Wipes, Windex and paper towels: $18
Gasoline to transport borrowed card tables: $24
Red helium “Garage Sale” balloons: $6
Lunch for in-laws who worked garage sale: $21
Price stickers for items: $2.99
Depreciation of cars parked outside for four days while garage was full of the clothes and toys and flotsam and jetsam associated with modern children: $200 per car (two cars) = $400
Cost of cell phone call to Goodwill to pick up unsold items: $2.99
General frustration at effort of garage sale far exceeding income from garage sale: $1.7 billion.

TOTAL: $1,700,017,399.98

Please remit the check to Michael S. Miller in care of my work address, 605 Monroe Street, Toledo OH 43604. We can also arrange for direct deposit.
Again, thank you for your time and attention to this matter. And if you have any friends looking for gently used baby and toddler items, please look us up on the Ann Arbor or Toledo-area Craigslist sites.
Sincerely,
Michael S. Miller

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

Muddy Shuttle Mud Hens Schedule, July 3, 2009

Administrator — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 04:00:42 +0000

Click here to view the Muddy Shuttle Mud Hens Schedule, for the week of July 3, 2009.

Cancer Institute offers range of programs

Lori Golaszewski — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 04:00:39 +0000

Various cancer programs ranging from support groups to holistic health services are offered by the ProMedica Cancer Institute.
“Look Good, Feel Better,” a free skin, hair and makeup program, is available for female cancer patients. Volunteer cosmetologists trained by the American Cancer Society, which co-sponsors the program, provide beauty tips and appearance-related advice to attendees based on their individual needs. Complementary makeup is provided.

Patti Kaiser, RN Outreach Coordinator, left, talks with Flower Hospital Nurse Donna Bosch.

“We focus on helping the women feel better about themselves,” said Patti Kaiser, outreach coordinator for ProMedica Cancer Institute. “Each woman is dealing with a different issue. Some have hair loss from chemotherapy, while others have skin conditions. It’s about helping them with their self-esteem.”
The program is offered on the second Monday of each month from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Some evening sessions are also scheduled. Call (419) 824-8822 or (877) 291-1441 for specific dates and locations.
Also available for women is a support group called “Getting Ovar It,” which is geared toward current patients and survivors of ovarian and other gynecological cancers. The group meets on the third Thursday of the month from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Hickman Cancer Center at Flower Hospital in Sylvania.
Kaiser said the support group is unique because individuals who aren’t able to attend in person have the option of participating via teleconference. “If someone is not feeling well, they can call in using a toll-free number,” Kaiser said. “Or they can be in Defiance or Florida and call in.”
Another unique offering, Kaiser noted, is a program called CHAMPS, which stands for Choosing Hope and Moving Past Sadness. CHAMPS is a free three-day summer program for children ages 6 and older who have a loved one diagnosed with cancer. More than 30 kids participated in this year’s program, which was hosted June 23 to 25 at the YMCA/JCC of Greater Toledo.
“ProMedica Cancer Institute is the only program in the area that has a kids’ program such as this,” Kaiser said. “There’s music therapy and art therapy. We break up the kids into different age groups and provide activities at their level. One of the most awesome things is that the kids look around and see that they’re not alone. When they’re at home or they’re going to school, they feel like they can’t talk about their feelings or that people don’t understand.
But every single person there has somebody they love who has cancer.”
Kids coping with a loved one’s cancer diagnosis can also participate in the Next Step program. The one-day program, which is also free, is offered four times a year to children ages 6 and older.
Upcoming programs are slated for Sept. 19 and Nov. 14 at the Hickman Cancer Center at Flower Hospital.
For cancer patients seeking holistic care, the Healing Program offers various classes and workshops that focus on the mind, body and spirit. Tai chi, yoga, Nia (gentle movement using music) and art classes are among the offerings. Call (877) 291-1441 for program times and locations.
Kaiser said she is interested in starting additional cancer support groups in the next year, including an individual support group for men and another for women. In addition, she hopes to reintroduce a Man to Man support group for prostate cancer survivors, which had been previously offered in Toledo but discontinued because of low attendance.
“People need the support not just when they’re diagnosed with cancer but as time goes on,” Kaiser said. “Support groups are important, because they’re able to sit with each other and communicate their fears and worries with other people who truly understand, because they’re experiencing the same things.”
If you or someone you know is interested in joining one of these groups, call Kaiser at (419) 824-8822.
For more information, call the ProMedica Cancer Institute at (877) 291-1441.