Pink is for girls and blue is for boys...

The title of this post inspired by the baby shower invitation below may be what you have been told when it comes to Baby Shower Invitations and the whole invitations baby shower theme, but there was actually a time when it was the opposite:

"There has been a great diversity of opinion on the subject, but the generally accepted rule is pink for the boy and blue for the girl. The reason is that pink being a more decided and stronger color is more suitable for the boy, while blue, which is more delicate and dainty, is prettier for the girl." [Ladies Home Journal, June, 1918]

That said whether you decide to go with the past or present whether you use free baby shower invitations, if you select Cards-411 (http://www.cards-411.com) to order from they can create a special design just for you, you can also add a picture, photo or logo to any one of their cards...

Toledo Walleye Inaugural Season Schedule Announced!

Toledo Walleye Inaugural Season Schedule Announced!

The Toledo Walleye today released their 72-game schedule for the 2009-2010 inaugural season. The Walleye will open the season on Friday, October 16 vs. the Florida Everblades at the brand new Lucas County Arena.

The complete schedule and schedule breakdown is at the bottom of this release. Game times will be determined at a later date. Click to view the 2009 Walleye Schedule!

The Walleye will open the year with 15 of their first 21 games at home in October, November and early December with 33 of the team’s 36 total home games coming on Friday, Saturday or Sunday.

Toledo will play 13 games against the Kalamazoo Wings (their closest rival at 150 miles), 11 games against the Cincinnati Cyclones, and 8 games against the Johnstown Chiefs.

Toledo Walleye Head Coach, Nick Vitucci said, “We are looking forward to hitting the ice in October. The anticipation has been growing for two years in the community and we are thrilled to be part of the new chapter of professional hockey here in Toledo. We would also like to welcome the Kalamazoo Wings to the ECHL and look forward to continuing a rivalry dating back to the old IHL.”

Toledo Walleye General Manager, Joe Napoli said, “The Inaugural Walleye Season will be quickly upon us and we are absolutely thrilled to have such a strong schedule with so many weekend dates… the memories will last a lifetime.”

The Walleye will also play games against Charlotte (5), Elmira (5), Florida (8), Gwinnett (3), Reading (3), South Carolina (4), Trenton (6), and Wheeling (6).

Walleye season tickets, mini-plans and group outings are on sale now. Fans can order their tickets by phone at (419) 725-WALL.

Individual tickets will be placed on sale later this summer.

2009-2010 Schedule
Friday, October 16, 2009 Florida
Saturday, October 17, 2009 Florida
Sunday, October 18, 2009 Florida
Friday, October 23, 2009 Reading
Saturday, October 24, 2009 Trenton
Thursday, October 29, 2009 at Reading
Saturday, October 31, 2009 at Kalamazoo

Wednesday, November 4, 2009 Kalamazoo
Friday, November 6, 2009 at Cincinnati
Saturday, November 7, 2009 Cincinnati
Wednesday, November 11, 2009 at Florida
Friday, November 13, 2009 at Florida
Saturday, November 14, 2009 at Florida
Friday, November 20, 2009 Cincinnati
Sunday, November 22, 2009 Cincinnati
Friday, November 27, 2009 Florida
Saturday, November 28, 2009 South Carolina
Sunday, November 29, 2009 South Carolina

Wednesday, December 2, 2009 Florida
Friday, December 4, 2009 Kalamazoo
Saturday, December 5, 2009 Kalamazoo
Sunday, December 6, 2009 at Wheeling
Wednesday, December 9, 2009 Wheeling
Friday, December 11, 2009 at Kalamazoo
Saturday, December 12, 2009 Elmira
Sunday, December 13, 2009 Elmira
Tuesday, December 15, 2009 at Cincinnati
Friday, December 18, 2009 at Johnstown
Saturday, December 19, 2009 Johnstown
Saturday, December 26, 2009 at Cincinnati
Sunday, December 27, 2009 Johnstown
Thursday, December 31, 2009 at Wheeling

Friday, January 1, 2010 Kalamazoo
Saturday, January 2, 2010 at Kalamazoo
Friday, January 8, 2010 Trenton
Saturday, January 9, 2010 Trenton
Sunday, January 10, 2010 Charlotte
Friday, January 15, 2010 at Wheeling
Saturday, January 16, 2010 at Cincinnati
Sunday, January 17, 2010 Johnstown
Friday, January 22, 2010 Elmira
Saturday, January 23, 2010 Elmira
Sunday, January 24, 2010 at Kalamazoo
Saturday, January 30, 2010 at Johnstown
Sunday, January 31, 2010 at Elmira

Thursday, February 4, 2010 at Charlotte
Friday, February 5, 2010 at Gwinnett
Saturday, February 6, 2010 at Gwinnett
Friday, February 12, 2010 Cincinnati
Saturday, February 13, 2010 Kalamazoo
Sunday, February 14, 2010 at Kalamazoo
Wednesday, February 17 at Cincinnati
Friday, February 19, 2010 at Charlotte
Saturday, February 20, 2010 at South Carolina
Sunday, February 21, 2010 at South Carolina
Friday, February 26, 2010 at Johnstown
Saturday, February 27, 2010 Gwinnett

Friday, March 5, 2010 Trenton
Saturday, March 6, 2010 Charlotte
Sunday, March 7, 2010 Charlotte
Wednesday, March 10, 2010 at Trenton
Friday, March 12, 2010 at Trenton
Saturday, March 13, 2010 at Reading
Friday, March 19, 2010 Cincinnati
Saturday, March 20, 2010 at Cincinnati
Sunday, March 21, 2010 at Wheeling
Friday, March 26, 2010 at Johnstown
Saturday, March 27, 2010 Wheeling
Sunday, March 28, 2010 Kalamazoo
Wednesday, March 31, 2010 at Johnstown

Friday, April 2, 2010 at Kalamazoo
Saturday, April 3, 2010 at Kalamazoo

Schedule Breakdown
Charlotte: Home-3, Away-2
Cincinnati: Home-5, Away-6
Elmira: Home-4, Away-1
Florida: Home-5, Away-3
Gwinnett: Home-1, Away-2
Johnstown: Home-3, Away-5
Kalamazoo: Home-6, Away-7
Reading: Home-1, Away-2
South Carolina: Home-2, Away-2
Trenton: Home-4, Away-2
Wheeling: Home-2, Away-4

October: Home-5, Away-2
November: Home-7, Away-4
December: Home-8, Away-6
January: Home-7, Away-6
February: Home-3, Away-9
March: Home-6, Away-7
April: Home-0, Away-2

Monday: Home-0, Away-0
Tuesday: Home-0, Away-1
Wednesday: Home-3, Away-4
Thursday: Home-0, Away-3
Friday: Home-11, Away-11
Saturday: Home-13, Away-11
Sunday: Home-9, Away-6

Toledo Symphony coming soon...

Toledo Symphony Concerts Start in September

TOLEDO, OH – With concerts starting in less than one month, the Toledo Symphony Orchestra (TSO) has announced that individual tickets are now on sale for all events. Additionally, the orchestra is pleased to announce that beloved Toledo native, Jamie Farr, will narrate Gustav Holst’s The Planets in February of 2010. Jamie Farr Narrates The Planets is one of three special events offered in the next year. The TSO plays two performances of Handel’s Messiah in December and local favorite Kirill Gerstein performs Rhapsody in Blue in March.

The chamber music of Mozart and Beethoven fills the Toledo Club on September 13th, and TSO Principal Conductor, Stefan Sanderling, leads the official season-opening classics concerts on September 25th and 26th at the Peristyle. Mahler’s monumental Third Symphony strives to depict nature and combines symphonic forces with choir—the Bowling Green State University Women’s Chorus and the Junior Choral Society of Northwest Ohio join the TSO.

The TSO continues its motto “The Sound Is All Around You”™ in 2009-2010 by offering concerts at the historic Peristyle at the Toledo Museum of Art, The Stranahan Theater in south Toledo, The Franciscan Center in Sylvania and The Toledo Club. Performances vary from traditional classical fare to intimate chamber music to symphonic pops with guest stars like Richard Marx and the Canadian Brass.

Special Concerts Include Appearance by Jamie Farr and Multimedia

In 2009-2010, the TSO offers special concerts in addition to its standard fare. The sure-to-sell-out performances are The Messiah, Jamie Farr Narrates The Planets, and Rhapsody in Blue.

For close to 90 years, the Toledo Choral Society has presented Handel’s Messiah. This December (Saturday the 5th and Sunday the 6th), the Toledo Symphony partners with the Toledo Choral Society for the definitive Messiah of the season. Live orchestra with the voices of the Choral Society and the Bowling Green State University Chorus lends inspiring power to the “Great Amen” and popular “Hallelujah” choruses. The Sunday performance is a matinee, perfect for families.

The Planets (Saturday, February 27th)is a multimedia adventure narrated by Toledo native Jamie Farr. This extraordinary visual and musical journey is a treat for the eyes and ears. Images from the NASA Hubble Telescope projected on screens above the stage will choreograph with live music from the TSO and narration from Mr. Farr.

And, on March 20th, Kirill Gerstein returns to the Toledo Symphony for an encore after last season’s phenomenal performance to play Rachmaninoff and Gershwin’s beloved Rhapsodies. Works by Tchaikovsky and Bernstein round out this powerhouse special concert.

Both The Planets and Rhapsody in Blue are one night only.

Season Highlights and Ticket Information

2010 brings powerful performances to the Peristyle: The Four Seasons, featuring the soloist talents of Toledo Symphony musicians and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 led by principal conductor Stefan Sanderling. Other season highlights include the annual tradition Bruckner in Rosary Cathedral, two of Mozart’s best-loved symphonies (#39 and #41) on the Mozart and More Series, and popular entertainer, Richard Marx (best-known for his 1989 power ballad “Right Here Waiting”) on the pops series.

Season subscriptions are still available and provide the best value and savings. Individual tickets are on sale now. Tickets can be ordered online at www.toledosymphony.com or by calling the box office at 419.246.8000 Monday-Friday from 9-5 p.m.

“For almost twenty years I’ve looked forward to the beginning of the symphony season – mostly because it means I get to do what I love most: play the horn! And this coming season is GREAT for horns! Mahler 3, Rachmaninoff 2, Strauss tone poems, and the always amazing music of Johannes Brahms. Each and every concert is unique, as live music is never the same twice.” Sandra Clark, principal horn
Visit them online at www.toledosymphony.com

Rattle & Roll...

As we explore the different kinds of baby shower invitations another popular item is rattles. You'll find them a key part of most invitations baby shower themes, from miniature rattles used to decorate food served at the baby shower to decorating the baby invitations. Historically rattles were also used by adults for ceremonies and things that most of us would not let our babies put in their mouths, rock crystal, ivory, agate, carnelian, mother-of-pearl, bone, or coral would be attached to a stick to be used for teething as well as shaking. When you pick CardsShoppe as your place to order (http://www.cardsshoppe.com) you'll not only have proof emailed to you within one hour on business days, but they print and ship your order the same day it's approved. You can also make unlimited changes with no additional cost as long as it's before you order...

How much food and drink was consumed at the German-American Festival?

I found this information on the link for the German-American Festival and I thought it was worth sharing:

FOOD & BEVERAGES CONSUMED AT 2008 GERMAN-AMERICAN FESTIVAL Lady serving food

6,100 ears of sweet corn

3,000 chicken halves

350 hot dogs

275 gallons of Sauerkraut

4,800 dinner rolls

10,500 hot dog and sausage buns

2 tons of handmade German potato salad

660 smoked “Old World” style Frankfurters

9,500 various Bratwurst

500 Bratwurst patties

5,000 smoked sausages

500 Käsewurst (new in 2008!)

1,500 smoked pork shanks

500 servings of Leberkäs (veal loaf)

400 servings of Kassler Rippchen (smoked pork chops)

1,000 servings of Schnitzel for sandwiches

5,000 pairs of Landjäger

6,000 pretzels

1,500 whole kosher pickles

540 pounds of Sauerkraut balls

50,000 hand-made potato pancakes (over 1-1/2 tons of potatoes)

650 barrels and cases of domestic and imported beers

50 cases of German wines

40 cases liqueurs and spirits

7,400 bottles of soda pop

4,000 bottles of water

Over 1,200 slices of hand made cakes

300 slices of miscellaneous cakes

300 Lebkuchen (gingerbread) hand decorated hearts

315 mini Strudels

1,200 hand made cookies

425 loaves of bread (sold as “to go”)

Over 650 pounds of assorted cheeses

700 pounds of assorted deli meats

580 doughnuts and éclairs

Over 6,000 scoops of ice cream

600 cream puffs

1,700 servings of candied, roasted almonds

200 pounds of popcorn

1-1/2 tons of hand-cut Pommes Frites – French Fries

Over 5 tons of ice

Over 1,200 cups of coffee

Over 500 cups of iced tea

The legend of the stork...

Ever wonder how storks became associated with newborn babies? It's not uncommon to see storks on baby shower invitations nor decorations for a baby shower nor even for the whole theme of the invitations baby shower party. The stork has played a symbolic role in quite a few early cultures, but it's connection to babies and ending up on baby invitations appears to have come from Germany. Whether you want a stork or some other design, Cards-411 (http://www.cards-411.com) will not only create a special design for you if you don't find just what you are looking for, but you can also view your card before you buy with their patented instant preview feature.

German American Festival this weekend!

The 44th German-American Festival, the Toledo area's Oldest, Largest and Greatest Ethnic Festival with authentic German Food, Beer and Entertainment. Festival organizers expect 35,000 paid attendees.

The Festival is operated by the G.A.F. Society. recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501 (c)(3) charitable organization. It is sponsored by the seven German and Swiss American Societies in Toledo.

The purpose of the German-American Festival is to promote and enhance the German and Swiss cultures as well as generate revenue to support the German and Swiss cultural center in Oregon and a wide variety of scholarship, athletic and other philanthropic programs in the Toledo area.

Women's Equality Day at Statehouse

WOMEN'S EQUALITY DAY FESTIVITIES AT STATEHOUSE
Wednesday, August 26 Event to celebrate women and unveil state of Ohio Women two- year study

On Wednesday, August 26, a full-day of activities at the Ohio Statehouse will celebrate Women's Equality Day. At noon, Ohio Secretary of State Jennifer Brunner will address the group followed by a statement from State Auditor Mary Taylor and a program on the passage of the 19th amendment granting women's suffrage.

At 1 p.m. at the Statehouse rotunda, the results of a two-year study on the current state of Ohio's women by The Institute on Women, Gender, and Public Policy at The Ohio State University will be delivered by Julie Graber, its Executive Director.

At 2 p.m. Governor Ted Strickland will induct the 2009 members of the Ohio Women's Hall of Fame. The full schedule of events is below.

This event is sponsored by Ohio Women Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to informing the public about the needs of women in Ohio.


Agenda

at the Ohio Statehouse Atrium followed by
Reception at the Hyatt On Capital Square

11AM – 2PM Ohio Statehouse and Women’s Gallery Tours
=0 A

11AM – 2PM Distributing Yellow Roses,
the suffragist Ratification Symbol

12 – 12:30pm Opening Ceremony, Jennifer Brunner speaks

1pm – 2pm Julie Graber, State of Ohio Woman’s Report, the OSU Institute on Women, Gender, and Public Policy

2pm – 3pm Ohio Women’s Hall of Fame Induction

3---5 p.m. HBO Film starring Hillary Swank “Iron Jawed Angels”

5pm – 7pm Reception, Hyatt on Capital Square

Tropical Christmas cards...

While I'm sure some do send out Christmas Party Invitations with a wintery theme when they live in the tropics there are also specific ones, some even Free Christmas invitations that have a tropical theme. No matter which Christmas Invitation you have in mind, www.invitations-shoppe.com (Invitations Shoppe) might just have what you are looking for, and if they don't? They'll design one especially for you and you can add any picture, photo or logo to a card. They even have printable Christmas invitations, so you can personalize yours even more.

Needle Arts Guild of Toledo 34th Annual Judged Show

This in via e-mail:

The Needle Arts Guild of Toledo (NAGT) will host its 34th Annual Judged Needlework Show on September 25th and 26, 2009 at the Sanger Branch of the Toledo Library, 3030 W. Central Avenue, Toledo, OH 43606. The exhibit is free and open to the public. Enjoy viewing hand-stitched works of art in beading, cross stitch, needlepoint, embroidery, multimedia, etc., – many original. Viewing times are: on Friday, September 25th, 10 am – 5 pm; and, Saturday, September 26th, 9 am – 4 pm. During viewing hours, the guild members will be demonstrating various needlework techniques.
The Needle Arts Guild of Toledo is a chapter of The Embroiderers’ Guild of America (EGA), Inc. (http://www.egausa.org/), a non-profit educational organization founded in 1959 to foster high standards of design, color, and workmanship in embroidery; teach the embroidery arts; and preserve our national needle arts heritage. The EGA serves thousands of members through a network of over 300 chapters which are grouped into thirteen geographical regions. Membership in NAGT is open to all interested in needlework and currently includes members from 15 Northwest Ohio municipalities as well as some from southern Michigan. However, you need not be a member of the guild to submit an entry. Visit http://www.needle-arts-toledo.org/showinfo.htm to obtain entry fee schedules and forms, rules and other details. Entry drop off is 4 pm – 8 pm on Wednesday, September 23rd, however, special arrangements may be made for mailed submissions by contacting the show registrar via NeedleArtsToledo@aol.com.
Our judge this year is Sandy Rodgers. Sandy is an internationally recognized designer and needlework teacher, having taught for over 25 years. In addition she is a certified judge, the author of seven books, a columnist, and editor of Needle Pointers magazine, the official publication of the American Needlepoint Guild Inc. Sandy’s extensive credentials and biographical information may be viewed at http://sandyrodgers.com/Resume.htm

As a community outreach project at the show, the guild will collect complete needlework kits (needles, threads, materials and instructions) to be sent to the Brooks Army Hospital at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas. These kits are used by our veterans and their families while they are recovering at the hospital. Through July 2009, the Needle Arts Guild of Toledo has sent over 760 such kits to the hospital.

Buckeye Forest Council Fall Forest Fundraiser

In via e-mail:

Buckeye Forest Council Fall Forest Fundraiser


We are excited to let you know about an amazing opportunity for you and for Buckeye Forest Council. We are planning the First Annual Fall Forest Fundraiser on Saturday October 17th at First UU Church of Columbus in Columbus, Ohio. Please put this on your calendar now and look for more information in the near future.

6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Saturday October 17th, 2009

First UU Church of Columbus, 93 West Weisheimer Rd, Columbus, OH 43214

Ice Storms...

The text of this Christmas Invitation made me curious as to what was the worst ice storm in history. While many States have had ice storms they stated was the worst in that area's history, some which happened during the invitations Christmas party season, the worst one that affected both the US and Canada was in 1998. In that case the storm happened after Christmas so it didn't impact any Christmas Party invitation plans or even New Year's. What this does is give you an example of the different kind of text you can use on your Christmas Invitations and when you go through www.holiday-invitations.com (Holiday Invitations) not only can they create a special design for you but you can make unlimited changes and then have your proof mailed to you on business days within one hour.

Frogtown Fair this Saturday...

Frogtown Fair is this weekend, some highlights from 2008:

2008 Event Highlights

* An estimated 1500 people visited the Civic Center Promenade to view 36 exhibits by green businesses, organizations and agencies and participate in 11 activities for the young and young at heart.

* Twenty-six participants joined two tours of the Toledo Division of Environmental Services’ rain barrel and rain garden demonstration projects, and approximately 50 visitors enjoyed a recycled fashion show by the advanced modeling students from John Casablancas.

* Volunteers distributed 1000 reusuable grocery bags donated by Kroger and Meijer. Each bag was marked by a Frogtown Fair logo sticker printed by Metzgers Printing and Mailing, Toledo’s first Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified “green printer.”
* American Rivers and the Toledo Stormwater Program distributed 97 preordered New England Rain Barrels and sold an additional 31 during the Frogtown Fair.

* The Gas Cap Testing and Replacement Program sponsored by the Toledo Division of Environmental Services Air Section and TMACOG tested a total of 111 vehicles. Of those tested, there were 8 failures, which resulted in the elimination of 1,592 lbs of evaporative emissions annually. The replaced gas caps are also responsible for saving each driver about 2 tanks of gas per year.

* The Mercury Pollution Prevention Partnership exchanged 56 mercury thermometers for safer digital ones. Funds for the purchase of the digital thermometers were supplied by Sam’s Club and as a supplemental environmental project by Canberra Corporation. Three thermostats and a vial (4 ml) containing elemental mercury were also collected during the Fair.

* The Lucas County Solid Waste Management District’s Specialty Waste Program removed the following household hazardous wastes from the waste stream: 392 lbs of alkaline batteries, 50 lbs of nickel-cadmium batteries, 15 lbs of lead acid batteries, 13 lbs of lithium batteries (total of approximately 5000 batteries), 27 lbs of compact fluorescent light bulbs (35 bulbs), 21 lbs of 4-ft fluorescent bulbs (30 bulbs) and 12 lbs of 8-ft fluorescent bulbs (8 bulbs).

* Affinity Information Management shredded 1500 lbs of documents and collected 10,000 lbs of electronics. All of the electronics collected will be recycled and disposed of in an environmentally responsible manner, keeping them out of landfills. Consumer electronics contribute 40 percent of the lead and about 70 percent of the heavy metals found in landfills.

* 288 participants completed exit surveys. From the surveys, it is quite clear that this event was needed in our community and was considered long overdue.
o 96% of the survey responders indicated that they were “very satisfied” or “satisfied” with the Fair.
o 65% of the responders participated in viewing the exhibits by green businesses, organizations and agencies.
o 52% participated in the three major recycling activities (21% in household battery and fluorescent light bulb recycling, 20% in secure document shredding and e-waste recycling and 11% in the mercury thermometer exchange).
o 63% expressed a need for how-to-workshops to go hand in hand with the promoted ideas.
* The survey also showed that visitors appreciated that the location of the
Fair brought people downtown and that the Farmers Market acted as an
extension of the green living theme of the event.

Walleye Tickets go on sale this Saturday....

In via e-mail:

The Toledo Walleye are pleased to announce that individual tickets will go on sale to the public on Saturday, August 8 at 9:00 AM at the Fifth Third Field box office.

34 of the 36 home dates will be made available for individual ticket sales at this time. Tickets for Friday, October 16th (Opening Night) and Saturday, October 17 are guaranteed in all full season ticket packages and half-season ticket plans (18 games).

Toledo Walleye Assistant General Manager Erik Ibsen said, “With the season just over two months away, we are excited to launch the individual ticket sale campaign for the Walleye. With the success of the season ticket sales, we realize that fans are anxious for the return of professional hockey to Toledo.”

The Toledo Walleye have already sold nearly 2,000 season tickets for the upcoming season, which currently ranks 4th in the ECHL.

Fans can purchase their tickets at Fifth Third Field, by phone (419) 725-WALL (9255), or online at www.toledowalleye.com. The box office is located at 406 Washington Street near the corner of St. Clair Street. Fans wishing to purchase individual tickets will form a single file line. A Walleye attendant will assist the next person in line to any of the available ticket windows at the box office. Also, the Swamp Shop souvenir store will be open for business throughout the morning.

All individual tickets for the 2009-10 season will be priced at $15.00. Kids 12 & under and seniors will pay $13.00 for all single game tickets during the inaugural season.

Full and partial season ticket packages are currently available for purchase by calling (419) 725-WALL. All season ticket packages and half-season packages (18 games) include Opening Night.

The Toledo Walleye will begin the regular season on Friday, October 16 at 7:00 PM vs. the Florida Everblades at the Lucas County Multi-Purpose Arena. Season tickets and mini-plan packages are on sale now and group outings are being reserved. Fans can call (419) 725-WALL for more information.

Pioneer Settlement to Open August 22nd at Sauder Village

This in via e-mail:

Pioneer Settlement to Open August 22nd at Sauder Village

Archbold, OH – Historic Sauder Village is bustling with excitement as opening day for Pioneer Settlement draws near. The construction and grounds crew are putting finishing touches on the landscaping and historic buildings, staff training has been completed, educational lectures are scheduled and plans are in place for the Grand Opening celebration on August 22nd.

“We’re so pleased to see all of our hard work and planning come together,” shared Kris Jemmott, Director of Historic Village Operations. “Guests will see how our history has progressed as they walk through our Historic Timeline from Natives and Newcomers (1803-1839) to the next era of life in Northwest Ohio, our brand new Pioneer Settlement (1834-1890). We are thrilled that opening day is drawing near!”

Pioneer Settlement is a nearly 5-acre expansion to Sauder Village that will share the personal stories of the early pioneers who came to the Great Black Swamp from Europe, forged a life and founded a community in what was Ohio’s last wilderness. Guests will step into the daily lives of the pioneers as they visit historic homes, community buildings, farms and gardens. Visitors will be able to smell the foods cooking, experience historic farming demonstrations and try hands-on activities. While visiting Pioneer Settlement, guests will connect with the past at places like the Lauber Hill Settlement, Log School House, Witmer-Roth Home and the Eicher Cabin. Other historic buildings in this new area include the Jail, Peter Stuckey Farm, Holdeman Church and a new Train Stop.

“The opening of Pioneer Settlement is happening at a time when our country is facing many challenges not unlike those experienced by our ancestors,” shared Jeanette Smith, Director of Marketing. “Guests to Pioneer Settlement will hear about our ancestors who worked together through tough times to build a community in the wilderness based on ingenuity, creativity, hard work and perseverance. As guests hear stories of their journey, their struggles and their joys they’ll be inspired with the messages of hope as they learn how these early settlers not only survived but thrived!”

The historic homes, farms and community buildings at Pioneer Settlement will allow guests to experience life in Ohio from 1834 until 1890. Throughout the fall there will be a rotation of demonstrations including farming with oxen, gardening, spinning, rug hooking and more. Guests will also have the chance to try hands-on activities like candle dipping, rope making, old-fashioned games, hauling water with a neck yoke, walking the fields with a harrow, gardening, spell downs and more!


The Grand Opening of Pioneer Settlement will be on Saturday, August 22 at 10:00 a.m. - coinciding with the 175th anniversary of the arrival of the first settlers at Lauber Hill on August 22, 1834. Folk singer and storyteller Bob Ford will be at the Village to provide music for this special day. Tom Lauber, author of “The Laubers: A Journey of Faith,” will also be at the Village to sign his book from 2:00-3:00 p.m. A special evening lecture is planned on Friday, August 21st as part of the weekend celebration. This free lecture will be held at 7:30 p.m. at Sauder Heritage Inn. Steven Charter, Head University Archivist from the Center for Archival collections at Bowling Green State University, will present “Coming to America: A Land of Opportunity.” Mr. Charter will speak about the early 19th century immigrants who came to Northwest Ohio.

Additional lectures in the series will be held on September 21 and October 20. On Monday, September 21st Hank Fincken, a professional historical actor, will engage the audience with a first person portrayal of John Chapman, a.k.a. Johnny Appleseed. Young and old alike will enjoy meeting Johnny and learning of his importance to the early settlement of this region. The final lecture in the series “Pioneer Women: Heroines in Aprons” will be held on Tuesday, October 20th. Ann Bowers, National Student Affairs Archivist at Bowling Green State University and women's history researcher, will speak about the experiences of the early women settlers in Northwest Ohio. This special lecture series is free and open to the public thanks to funding provided by Mennonite Mutual Aid and the Ohio Humanities Council, a state affiliate of the National Endowment of the Humanities.

Historic Sauder Village is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and each Sunday afternoon from 12:00-4:00 p.m. The Village is closed on Mondays, except holidays. Historic Village admission is $12.50 for adults and $6.50 for students ages 6-16. Children 5 and under are always free with family and discounts are available for seniors and AAA members. Every Sunday this season children 16 and under receive free admission to the Historic Village. For more information about Pioneer Settlement or any of the special events planned yet this fall call 800-590-9755 or visit the website at www.saudervillage

Snow cones made me think of snow men

As I enjoyed the Hawaiian Ice version of a snow cone today (okay three but who's counting) and yesterday at Smoke on the Water, I couldn't help but think of snowmen as seen on this Christmas Invitation. The mounds of shaved ice could easily make one forget the heat and start thinking about party Christmas invitations and the invitations Christmas season. Since Holiday Invitations (www.holiday-invitations.com) will create a special design for anyone, I pondered having one done with shaved ice, perhaps with lime and cherry flavors, but instead of an umbrella in the drink, a small Christmas tree...What ever you decide you want on your Christmas Party invitation, they will print and ship your order the same day it's approved.

American Care Givers School Supply give a way

As noted below the American Care Givers are collecting school supplies, if you are a family in need:

On August 21, 2009 between 10:00a.m. to 5:00p.m.(or until all supplies have been depleted) we will be giving away school supplies to show our appreciation to the community during these tough economic times.

We are asking families to bring with them their child’s “school supply” list in order to pick up their donated items.

For additional information, feel free to contact us at (419) 724-0888.

Read our Newsletter online @ www.familyactivitiesclub.com.

American Care Givers School Supply Drive

The American Care Givers, associated with the Family Activities Club is sponsoring a school supply drive:

We realize the state of the economy over the past year and giving back to the community is something that American Care Givers believe in. Therefore we are asking for individuals and corporations to donate school supplies. We need backpacks, notebook paper, pens, pencils, crayons, 3-ring notebooks, folders, scissors, rulers, colored pencils, Elmers gule, glue sticks, etc.

Please bring items to the Family Activities Club, 6202 Trust Drive, Holland, Ohio 43528 - between 8a.m. to 5p.m. Monday - Friday.

For additional information, please contact us at (419) 724-0888.

Jolly Old St. Nicholas...

Most people know the history of Jolly Old St. Nicholas as seen on this Christmas Invitation and the variety of images of Santa Claus found on free Christmas invitations and printable Christmas invitations. Santa Claus is one of those interesting traditions that came from another country, in this case, the Dutch. When you order your Christmas party invitations from www.cardsshoppe.com, you can add a photo or picture or logo to any card on their site and they will print and ship your order the same day it's approved.

How safe are Ohio's beaches?

This in via email from Environment Ohio:

New Report Shows Ohio's Beaches are Threatened with Pollution:

For another year, Ohio ranks 2nd in the nation for failing to meet national health standards

CLEVELAND, OHIO - As summer is well under way and families flock to America's coastal beaches, they often find that an unwelcome "intruder" has beaten them to the shore: an official beach advisory, warning people not to enter the water because it is contaminated with dangerous bacteria.

Along Ohio's Lake Erie coast, beach advisories remain a common occurrence. Last year Ohio ranked second in the nation for the number of coastal beach advisories, according to the 19th annual beach water quality report released today by the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), the Ohio Environmental Council, and Environment Ohio.

Using the latest data from the U.S. EPA, the "Testing the Waters: A Guide to Water Quality at Vacation Beaches" report tallied 783 health advisory days in 2008 for Ohio beaches, up 19% from the 657 days in 2007. The report is available at here.

A beach advisory is issued when the level of bacteria in the water is higher than the maximum standard allowed for safe swimming. Under Ohio Department of Health rules, most beach postings only advise against-but do not actually prohibit-entering the water.

"We have come far, but additional work is needed to safeguard public health. Advisories continue to turn families and children away from the beach, all because of outdated and overwhelmed sewage and stormwater treatment systems," said Coby Williams, Legislative & Public Affairs Associate for the Ohio Environmental Council.

Tainted beach water can expose beachgoers to a range of waterborne illnesses, including gastroenteritis, dysentery, hepatitis, respiratory ailments and other serious health problems. For senior citizens, small children, and people with weak immune systems, the results can be fatal.

Nationwide, sewage spills and overflows caused more than 20,000 beach closing and advisory days in 2008, down 10% from 2007. This was due to overall drier conditions across the country, producing less stormwater runoff. However, in Ohio, there was a 19% increase in the number of advisory days from 2007. For another year, Ohio ranks 2nd nationally for failing to meet national health standards. The report indicates waters along the Great Lakes coastline are the dirtiest in the country. Studies by the EPA in the Great Lakes show as many as 10% of beach goerers report getting sick after swimming in beachwaters.

"When families head to the beach this summer, they shouldn't have to worry about swimming in polluted water that can make them sick," said Amanda Moore, Environment Ohio Field Organizer. "Ohioans shouldn't have to choose between swimming in sewage and staying out of the water."

Beach advisories represent not only a health hazard, but also a loss in economic revenue. Studies in Michigan have indicated economic losses ranging from $7,935 to $37,030 per day, due to recreational activity lost because of beach advisories.

Aging and poorly-designed sewage and stormwater systems hold much of the blame for beach water pollution. Record rainfalls in recent years have also added to the strain on already overloaded infrastructure. Report authors also found that poor suburban developments in coastal areas are devouring wetlands and other natural buffers such as dunes and beach grass that would otherwise help filter out dangerous pollution.

This pollution is only expected to get worse as global warming continues. The combined effects of temperature increases and more frequent and intense rainstorms will lead to increased stormwater runoff, sewer pollution and disease-causing pathogens in nearby waterways. Specifically, global warming is anticipated to influence the presence of pathogens that cause stomach flu, diarrhea and neurological problems in America's beachwater. The report recommends that Congress pass the American Clean Energy and Security Act (H.R. 2454, also known as ACES), which will reduce emissions of global warming pollution and help communities prepare for flooding, sea level rise, increased stormwater pollution, sewer overflows, and other adverse impacts of climate change.

Toledo Walleye Announce Support Staff

This in via e-mail:

The Toledo Walleye are pleased to announce that they have hired a supporting staff for Head Coach Nick Vitucci for the 2009-10 campaign.

Joining Vitucci will be Dan Watson (Assistant Coach), Craig Furstenau (Assistant Coach), Dave Aleo (Equipment Manager), and Brad Fredrick (Athletic Trainer).

Walleye Head Coach, Nick Vitucci said, “I am thrilled to have the chance to work with Dan, Dave and Brad again and welcome Craig to the professional ranks. Dan is a true professional both on and off the ice and will work hard with all of our players. We would be hard pressed to find an equipment manager as good as Dave Aleo anywhere in professional hockey. Having Brad back puts us in a position where our players will be getting the best of care throughout the season. To be able to work with people that I know and trust will only enhance the experience of our players. Craig has great experience and we look forward to working with him this year.”

Dan Watson (Assistant Coach)
Watson (30) is a native of Glencoe, Ontario and most recently worked at Puckmasters in Cleveland, OH as Head Coach. Watson played three seasons with the Sarnia Sting (OHL) and appeared in 202 consecutive games. He was named the 1998-99 Scholastic Player of the Year at Sarnia and the 1999-00 Defensive Player of the Year (Sarnia). Watson also played in the 1998-99 OHL All-Star Game.

Watson signed as free agent with the Columbus Blue Jackets (May of 2000) and played seven professional seasons in the AHL, UHL, and ECHL. His career statistics include 447 games played, 23 goals, 66 assists, and 394 penalty minutes. Watson was named the 2004-05 Defensive Player of the Year (Long Beach Ice Dogs, ECHL) and was Captain in Long Beach for the 2004-05 and 2005-06 seasons.

Craig Furstenau (Assistant Coach)
Furstenau (31) played for Oakland University as team captain until 2001. He joined the Oakland coaching staff as an assistant in 2002 and then was named Head Coach of the Grizzlies halfway through the 2002-2003 season.

In three years at Oakland, his team went 77-15-6. He won two regular season titles, two playoff titles, one national title, and one national runner up. He currently has multiple school records for wins in a season (30), wins in a row (20), games without a loss (23), best single season record (30-3-3) and overall best win percentage (.875). In 2004, he was Central Region coach of the Year and a Team USA coaching candidate for the World University games.

He left Oakland University to join the Little Caesars organization where he coached from 2006-09. In the three years under his leadership, Little Caesars won eight tournaments, were back-to-back-to-back state finalists (winning two of the three), a national quarter finalists, and national champions at the Midget level in 2008.

Dave Aleo (Equipment Manager)
Aleo (44) spent three seasons as Equipment Manager with the Toledo Storm (2003-2006), before joining the Hamilton Bulldogs of the AHL (2006-2008). Dave started as an Assistant Equipment Manager with the Toronto Maple Leafs of the NHL (1994-2001) and also the New York Islanders (2001).

Was a member of the Hamilton Bulldogs team that won the 2007 Calder Cup Championship. Was selected to work the 2008 AHL All-Star Game and the 2000 NHL All-Star Game. Also participated in the World Under-18 Championship as Equipment Manager for Team Canada that went on to win the Gold Medal.

Brad Fredrick (Athletic Trainer)
Fredrick (37) begins his first season with the Toledo Walleye after serving the same role with the Toledo Storm for three seasons. Brad handles the daily treatment and evaluation of all Toledo Walleye players. He also manages player injury rehabilitation and workouts.

Prior to joining the Toledo Storm, the Bowling Green State University graduate spent nine years covering high school athletics through Sports Care in the Toledo area. Brad graduated from Bowling Green State University in 1995 with a degree in athletic training.

The Toledo Walleye will begin the regular season on Friday, October 16 at 7:00 PM vs. the Florida Everblades at the Lucas County Multi-Purpose Arena. Season tickets and mini-plan packages are on sale now and group outings are being reserved. Fans can call (419) 725-WALL for more information.

Alice Cooper is coming to Toledo and blogging

Alice Cooper is coming to Toledo this upcoming weekend, but what's also interesting is he's blogging on his website - www.alicecooper.com.

Does he mention Toledo? I won't give that away, you'll have to visit for yourself to find out. But I will tell you that VIP packages are not yet sold out...Which give you:

* 1 Ticket Per Person*
* After Show Meet & Greet with Alice Cooper
* 1 Photo w/ Alice (must bring your own camera)
* 1 Exclusive Merch Item Per Person

If you have been "dying" to meet Alice Cooper? Here's your chance...

Halloween and tombstones...

A fact you may not realize when you see the letters RIP as used on many Halloween Invitations is while it's called "Rest In Peace" here in the states, it's actually Latin for "Requiescat in pace" -- so the next time you are in a conversation with someone about tombstones invitations Halloween or otherwise, you can be the Halloween Invitation expert. You can also win bonus points on your knowledge if you tell people that www.invitations-shoppe.com will email your design proof to you within one hour of your order during the business day, they let you make unlimited changes and those Halloween Party Invitations are printed and shipped the same day your order is approved...

Fireworks from last night's Mud Hen's game

Fireworks are challenging to try to photograph, especially with a regular digital camera, but I thought this one particular photo that I took last night of the fireworks show after the Mud Hens defeated the Yankees was an interesting one...

Buckeye Forest Council asks for your action...

The following information was sent out by the Buckeye Forest Council:

ODNR Division of Forestry - State Forest Open Houses for Fiscal Year 2010

Buckeye Forest Council members and friends have an incredible opportunity to make an impact on the decision making process of the Ohio Division of Forestry (DOF). Open Houses have been announced for most Ohio State Forests. With these events just a few short weeks away the individual plans had not yet been posted on the DOF web site as of Friday, July 24, 2009 at 3:00 p.m. To determine if these plans have been posted please go to: here


If they have not, please write to forestry@dnr.state.oh.us and ask that the plans be posted immediately.


If you are interested in participating in this process please click here to e-mail us. We will be reviewing the plans, making recommendations, and expressing our concerns about DOF forest management practices at each Open House. More info can be found at www.buckeyeforestcouncil.org.

My favorite Halloween invitation so far...

This Halloween Invitation caught my eye and is my favorite so far of the Halloween Party Invitations I've looked at. I'm a fan of blue and I like the haunted house design. If this particular invitation Halloween design isn't your favorite? There are more unique and exclusive designs at Invitations-Shoppe.com and as an added bonus? Shipping is free with ten thank you cards included with your order. This gives you more than just your average Halloween invitations...

Mud Hens return home tomorrow!

This in via e-mail from the Toledo Mud Hens:

The Toledo Mud Hens return home on Monday, July 20 for a ten-game homestand versus the Syracuse Chiefs (Washington Nationals) and the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees (New York Yankees).

Toledo Mud Hens Promotions for July 20-27

Monday, July 20
(Syracuse, 1st Pitch at 7:00 PM – Gates open at 6:00) – The Mud Hens will host the Syracuse Chiefs in the first game of their homestand. It is the only visit of the year for the top affiliate of the Washington Nationals. Come meet Ronald McDonald, Birdie the Early Bird, Grimace and The Hamburglar at the game as McDonald’s celebrates the 30th Birthday of the Happy Meal. The contest between the Mud Hens and Chiefs can be heard live on Fox Sports Radio 1230, WCWA.

Tuesday, July 21
(Syracuse, 1st Pitch at 7:00 PM – Gates open at 6:00) – The Hens host the Chiefs in the second of a four-game set. For Bad Hair Night, wear your most Hair-iffic styles! The first 3,000 participating fans receive a free comb! Bring on the crazy hair styles and don’t forget to tease it, gel it, flip it, flat iron it, roll it, mousse it and spike it! Just stroll your strands on down to the game! Game 2 between the Mud Hens and Chiefs can be heard live on Fox Sports Radio 1230, WCWA.

Wednesday, July 22
(Syracuse, 1st pitch at 7:00 PM – Gates open at 6:00) – The Mud Hens continue a series with the Syracuse Chiefs. The contest between the Hens and the Chiefs can be heard live on Fox Sports Radio 1230, WCWA.

Thursday, July 23
(Syracuse, 1st pitch at 7:00 PM – Gates open at 6:00) – The Mud Hens will host the Chiefs in the final game of a four-game series. Captain America is making an appearance at Fifth Third Field! There are free hair cuts from Great Clips (charitable donations accepted) on the main concourse during the game. It is also Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Awareness Night. The contest between the Hens and the Bats can be heard on Fox Sports Radio 1230, WCWA and seen live on BCSN.

Friday, July 24-Doubleheader
(Scranton-WB, 1st pitch at 6:00 PM – Gates open at 4:30) – The Mud Hens will host the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees, who are the top affiliate of the New York Yankees. It is their only visit to Fifth Third Field. Due to an earlier rainout at Scranton/WB, the Mud Hens and Yankees will play a double-header – two games for the price of one! Both games will be seven innings; Scranton/WB will be the home team for Game 1. It is Komen Race for the Cure Night (wear Pink Night); there will be a Pretty in Pink Jersey Auction during the second game. Following Game 2 there will be post-game fireworks and a Ballriech’s Chips giveaway upon exit. The games between the Hens and the Yankees can be heard live on Fox Sports Radio 1230, WCWA and seen live on BCSN.

Saturday, July 25-Doubleheader
(Scranton-WB, 1st pitch at 5:30 PM – Gates open at 4:00) – Due to an earlier rainout at Scranton/WB, the Mud Hens and Yankees will once again play a double-header – two games for the price of one! Both games will be seven innings, and Scranton/WB will be the home team for Game 1. There will be post-game fireworks and a scout sleepover. The games between the Hens and the Yankees can be heard live on Fox Sports Radio 1230, WCWA and seen live on BCSN.

Sunday, July 26
(Scranton-WB, 1st pitch at 6:30 PM – Gates open at 5:00) – The Mud Hens will host the Scranton/WB Yankees to continue the homestand. It is Latino Heritage Night: Ven a la celebración Latina! Also, Mud Hens thunderstix will be given away to the first 1,000 kids to enter the game. As part of “Design-A-Sign Night,” cheer on your Mud Hens by designing your very own sign at Fifth Third Field! Selected Mud Hens players will be signing pre-game autographs, and following the game kids can run the bases and there are post-game fireworks. The contest between the Hens and the Yankees can be heard on Fox Sports Radio 1230, WCWA and seen live on BCSN.

Monday, July 27
(Scranton-WB, 1st pitch at 12:00 PM – Gates open at 11:00 AM) – The Hens host the Scranton/WB Yankees for the final game of the homestand. Fifth Third Field will also host a very special guest for the first time! Something fishy is going on….hmm, what could it be? As part of Summer Rec Day, it is a special noon start time. The contest between the Hens and the Yankees can be heard on Fox Sports Radio 1230, WCWA and seen live on BCSN.

Children and Halloween...

When it comes to Halloween Invitations there are thousands to pick from whether the party is for a child as this one is or for adults. For those who look through all of the Halloween Party invitations out there and just can't seem to find the perfect Halloween Invitation? Companies like Holiday-Invitations.com will create a special design as well as printing and shipping your order the same day it's approved. That way whether you plan ahead or wait till the last minute? Invitations Halloween perfection is possible...

From Annette at Prizm

This received via email to share from Prizm:

Greetings Everyone,

1. The Opening Reception of the Salon des Refuses Show was last night, the weather was perfect and the participation great! Many interesting pieces of art 2 and 3 dimensional work were featured in the gallery, and a large crowd of art aficionados turned out to enjoy the festivities. For those who have an interest in seeing the show we have attached a dozen jpeg images. Special thanks to the many volunteers who made it all possible!!!

We were honored to have the family of the late Joannie Breier, a charter Prizm member, attend and participate in the festivities with us. Joannie’s family sponsored the Best of Show Award this year in honor of their mother, who was a past Salon show participant and a Prizm member.

For those who were unable to attend the opening the display will continue M-F- 8:30- 4:30 p.m.

at the Parkwood Gallery, 1838 Parkwood Ave, across the street from the Toledo Museum of Art. through August the 21st . Read about it in the local newspapers this coming week. This years judge was local artist Wil Clay. Our very own Michael Hall won the Kandinsky Award. Look for the Press Release this coming week of who the other award winners were.

2. The Collingwood Arts Center also offered up some of their space for refused artists from the museum, and their Salon Show area featured several refused artists from the TAA show along side the display of some of their own artist residents. At the end of the evening some of our Prizm members enjoyed meeting their new executive director, Audrey Johnson a wonderful high energy person who has assumed the responsibility of continuing the development of the Collingwood as an Community Art Center. We wish them the best of luck in their efforts, and are grateful for the opportunities they provide to the community.

3. We also express our deep sorrow to the Collingwood Arts Center over the death of board member Robert Brundage who was a true gentleman, and a advocate for the arts in our area. The Toledo area will miss his service and gentle ways. A special memorial Service will be held for Robert on Friday July the 24th at 6 p.m. at the Collingwood Arts Center auditorium. All are invited to come and celebrate Robert’s life.

4. Two weeks from today on Saturday afternoon July the 25th at 1 p.m., Prizm in collaboration with the Way Public Library Adult Summer Reading Program will co-sponsor a lecture by landscape artist Lanna Pendleton Hall. The lecture is FREE and Open to the Public, and refreshments will be served. This talented artist from Montpelier, Ohio, will share her award-winning paintings which focus on the sky. These paintings referred to as “skyscapes” capture the interesting weather patterns of northwest Ohio. Look for the Press release in the papers the next couple of weeks.

5. As announced last week Prizm’s Art in Public Places Program has 2 new installations in town, Georgette’s Coffee Shop on Reynolds Rd. in Maumee and Huntington Bank on Route 20 in Perrysburg both have a beautiful selection of Prizm member art. Special thanks to our Art in Public Places Chair Kitty Pattay. Again look for a press release on both shows in the local newspapers.

6. A reminder that this next weeks FACET meeting where people work on their artwork has been rescheduled to the Commodore Building Cafeteria at 10 a.m. instead of Zoar Lutheran Church as previously announced. There will be a short discussion on Tuesday concerning FACET meeting.

7. It’s that time of year again when the PRIZM volunteer committees meet to talk about what classes and events they would like to recommend to the executive committee for next year’s schedule. All prizm members are encouraged to join one of the following committees and help to plan for next year. The 1st meeting will be on Tuesday evening July 28th at 6 p.m. at the Maumee Public Library community room.

This is a reminder that we have 3 grass roots committees in which Prizm members give input for prizm future educational programming and activities. Please consider volunteering to be on one of the committees to offer your input.


The committees are: Educational Programming Committee: Suggests possible future Educational Classes and Workshops

Community Liasion Committee- explores and suggests exhibitions, special events, fundraising and service opportunities.

Communications Committee: Helps with Newsletters, Press Releases, phone calls, website etc., These volunteers add support services to the organization often from the convenience of their home.

As the old adage says: Many hands make light work! We are grateful for the many contributions that have and will be given to provide community opportunities to Prizm members and the general public which we serve. More to come…..

Okay cat lovers!

MEOW—A Cat Poetry Anthology

Please pass along to those who will be interested…

Wanted: Poems about cats, involving cats or cat-like in their nature for a poetry anthology to be published in Fall 2009. (We’ll even consider poems about Catwoman and the Broadway musical Cats.) All genre of poetry will be considered from haiku to sonnets to limericks to free verse.

Looking for short poems not exceeding 50 lines that reflect the author’s best efforts. Original, unpublished work is preferred. Previously-published exceptional work will be considered. Include full citation. No reader or submission fees. No remuneration for accepted work. A portion of any profits will be donated to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), the first humane society to be established in North America — an excellent organization dedicated to the care of cats, dogs and all non-human friends. /www.aspca.org/

Email poems and a brief three- to five-sentence bio to meow.poetry@yahoo.com Submissions can be either in the body of the email or as an attached Word.doc. Email subject line should read: Meow Submission: Your Name.

Deadline: July 15, 2009

Poets will receive emails of acceptance / rejection, and notification when the published book is available.

The Salon des Refuses is coming!

The Salon des Refuses, a well-loved Toledo tradition, is an exhibit for art denied by the Toledo Area Artists Exhibition held each year at the Toledo Museum of Art.

Opening reception: Fri., July 10, 2009, 6:00-9:30 pm.

Monday thru Friday, 8:30 am-4:30 pm, July 13 thru Aug 21, 2009

ACGT’s Parkwood Gallery
1838 Parkwood Ave
Toledo, OH 43506

Money to Burn: A prescription for destructive fire on public land?

Money to Burn: A prescription for destructive fire on public land?
Environmental coalition calls for investigation, files complaints
June 24, 2009. For immediate release.
Complete list of contacts and supporting documents below.

In a telephone press conference Wednesday, a coalition of citizens and environmental groups called on the Strickland administration to “rein in Ohio Division of Forestry (ODOF) and conduct a full public investigation of its disastrous prescribed burn program, including April’s 2870-acre Shawnee Forest fire, and financial incentives for DOF to burn.” The group explained in the phone conference why such an investigation must examine:

* ODOF knowledge of and failure to heed extreme fire danger conditions that indicated a high probability of their prescribed burn escaping
* arson charges brought by ODOF during the fire, which the prosecutor has recommended be dropped
* site preparations for the burn (permitted for 250 acres) that eventually burned 2870 acres of Shawnee State Forest at great cost and danger to people and property
* the link between federal fire money and ODOF activity, and
* fire impacts on Ohio forests, local economies, and public health.

David Maywhoor, Director of the Buckeye Forest Council, a statewide forest protection nonprofit, said, “The Ohio Division of Forestry funds its budget in part with federal funds based on acres burned. Behind schedule and with an April 30 deadline looming, DOF set a fire in Shawnee State Forest on Friday, April 24––a day for which the National Weather Service had issued a warning of extreme fire danger ‘across much of southern Ohio.’” DOF’s permit was for 250 acres. 2870 acres burned over the next seven days.

Cheryl Carpenter, of Shawnee-based Voices for the Forest, described circumstances of the arson charge: “On Sunday, April 26, a 22-year old volunteer firefighter and Army veteran who had been assisting DOF on Friday called 911 from a home near where fire had flared. As he was running back toward the fire, he was arrested by DOF and charged with arson for fires that had started on Friday and for possession of criminal tools. According to legal documents, the criminal tool was a Bic lighter.”

Carpenter is one of at least four citizens and environmental groups filing Verified Complaints to Ohio EPA based on DOF violations of its open burning permit. Also filing are Matt Peters of Forest Watch, Barbara Lund of Adams County, and Buckeye Forest Council. Each filing requires that OEPA follow up with an investigation. Peters said, “The breadth and depth of the issues raised in these complaints show that this is not an isolated issue limited to one burn on one forest. Internal agency review has lost its legitimacy. Oversight is needed beyond the agency level.”

Carpenter’s OEPA complaint cites, among many issues, the Fire Chief’s Handbook and DOF’s lack of site preparation: “Many tall dead trees were left standing, even along the permit area perimeter. They act like chimneys and can project embers up to three miles.” The alleged arson fires were less than half a mile downwind of DOF’s fire. ODOF has acknowledged causing the spot fire that started between its permitted fire and the alleged arson fires. “DOF’s fire or spot fires could easily have started all the fires,” Carpenter stated. The Fire Marshall never ruled any of the fires arson. The prosecutor has recommended that the case be dismissed: "They have a lot of work to do--both to show this is arson and to show that he is the one who did it. " (Mark Kuhn, Scioto County Prosecutor in Portsmouth Daily Times, 6-24-09)

J.B. Berry, Nile Township Volunteer Fire Department Assistant Chief, believes the accused “is innocent and that forestry officials have no physical evidence to prove otherwise,” according to the Portsmouth Daily Times (6/6/09): “‘I don’t even think there was an arsonist out there…You had winds that day gusting up to 40 miles an hour.’”

Brandi Whetstone, Sierra Club Ohio Chapter Conservation Program Coordinator, discussed political, health and environmental impacts of the burn program: "Prescribed fire in Ohio's public forests is inappropriate, given the lack of public hearings and the many public health and environmental impacts.” She said, “Fire not only destroys valuable forest habitat but also releases air pollution that contributes to respiratory illness and climate change. Burning is of special concern in areas that fail to meet clean air standards for particulate matter. Ohio Department of Natural Resources should be preserving forests as carbon sinks instead of releasing greenhouse gases that contribute to global climate change."

Heather Cantino, of Buckeye Forest Council, stated, “DOF uses weak, frequently changing justifications to burn vast areas of public woodland in a part of the country where fire is not necessary but harmful. Unlike western forests, our forests are moist: wood rots and does not accumulate as fuel. The only way to protect homes is to protect the immediate area around them. Burning forests doesn’t protect homes. Instead, DOF fires produce lots of dead wood that creates rather than eliminates wildfire risk.”

Cantino continued, “Our forests are not adapted to fire; it harms our forests and encourages invasive plant species, a growing threat to our native forests. And fire’s promotion of oaks is an unproven, controversial goal appropriate, at most, in well-constructed experiments. Where is DOF”s monitoring of the effectiveness of any of its forest burn activities?” she asked.

“Unlike historic fires of earlier centuries, which would have been small and confined to ridgetops, DOF conducts high intensity burns from ridgetops to cove bottoms over many hundreds of acres at a time,” Cantino said. “The studies DOF cites do not look at long term effects, late April burns, or effects on rare species. There is no support in the scientific literature for this kind or scale of burning,” she concluded.

Barbara Lund stated, “Most of Ohio has been appropriated for human use. Less than 1% is truly original. Even secondary native ecosystems are like tiny islands in an ocean of human development. Ohio’s state forests contain biodiversity essential to human survival. But they are literally being managed to death.”

David Maywhoor summed up with the group’s call for action: “The Governor should appoint an independent investigative body to review this fire and all DOF fire and logging activities. Public scrutiny of DOF activities is essential to protect our citizens and our forests. We also look forward to prompt and complete investigation by OEPA of all violations cited in the recently submitted Verified Complaints.”

Additional contacts:

* Cheryl Carpenter, Voices for the Forest: 740-820-8425, cheryl61@falcon1.net
* Brandi Whetstone, Sierra Club Ohio Chapter: 614-461-0734 x311, brandi.whetstone@sierraclub.org
* Barbara Lund, member, Save our Shawnee Forest: 937-544-7104
* Matt Peters, Forest Watch: 740-797-4319, matt@wormsnbats.com
* Heather Cantino, Buckeye Forest Council: 740-594-3338; heather.cantino@gmail.com
* JB Berry, Assistant Fire Chief, Nile Township Fire Department, Friendship OH 740-858-5190

click here for additional materials

Great Lakes states pump $211 million into the local economies and sustain 4,400 jobs

Recommended article from La Prensa, Salazar: Visiting our parks is one way of bolstering an ailing economy:

If the economy woes are bringing you down, take a hike in the lush Metroparks or camp in the Emerald Necklace to recuperate your senses and reconnect with the environment. Spending your family vacation visiting natural parks is one way to bolster the ailing U.S. economy.

Department of Interior is allocating $3 billion nationally under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 to create 100,000 jobs that cannot be outsourced, conserve natural treasures, and generate renewable and efficient energy and protect the environment.

Speaking at the City Club of Cleveland on June 2, 2009, Secretary of Interior Ken Salazar said the country’s economic recovery will begin in Ohio. The Buckeye state is slated to receive $23 million of which more than $7 million will be invested in Cuyahoga Valley National Park to upgrading nine miles of railroad, closing four hazardous abandoned oil and gas wells to restore the natural landscapes, and repairing the historic Tinker’s Creek aqueduct.

“The investment we are making in Ohio will create jobs,” Salazar said. He said Pres. Obama has made economic recovery a top priority and the administration is seeking solutions that will set the nation on a path to energy independence,

Salazar said national park sites in the Great Lakes states pump $211 million into the local economies and sustain 4,400 jobs. “At Cuyahoga Valley National Park alone, two and a half million people visit each year, spending $38 million annually in the local economy, supporting nearly a thousand jobs,” Salazar said. “Supporting our parks and refuges is something that benefits everyone.”

Office of Fleet Management wins award for alternative fuels

State of Ohio wins national award for alternative-fuel-use scorecard

Efforts by the State of Ohio to increase the use of alternative fuels in state vehicles has captured national recognition.

The Ohio Department of Administrative Services’ Office of Fleet Management has been named a winner of the 2009 Larry Goill Memorial Quality Fleet Management Idea Award from the NAFA Fleet Management Association for the creation and use of a scorecard measuring the use of alternative fuels in state vehicles.

This international competition recognizes creative ideas that improve productivity and/or favorably impact bottom-line cost savings.

“This national award further confirms that the State of Ohio has made great strides during the past two years in our efforts to increase the use of alternative fuels. There is more work to be done, but we accept the responsibility of being a leader among our peers,” said Director Hugh Quill of the Ohio Department of Administrative Services.

The Ohio Revised Code mandated the use of alternative fuels in capable state vehicles in October 2006. The code spelled out the minimum amounts of biodiesel and E85 fuel required to be used annually. To illustrate usage in an easy-to-read format, in 2007 the Office of Fleet Management created a scorecard indicating each state agency’s alternative fuel use and its progress toward reaching its goal. The scorecard has been shared with agency fleet managers and posted to the State of Ohio Web site at http://das.ohio.gov/gsd/Fleet/pdf/E_85_Bio_Feb_09.pdf.

The results of the implementation of the scorecard have been astounding. During calendar year 2008, E85 use increased 701 percent and biodiesel use increased 2,364 percent.

The State of Ohio was one of two winners of the 2009 Larry Goill Memorial Quality Fleet Management Idea Award. Applications were accepted from anyone employed in a vehicle management role by any company, utility, government agency or not-for-profit organization in the United States or Canada.

The awardees were announced April 27 at the NAFA Institute and Expo in New Orleans.

Underground Railroad Lantern Tour

If you have never taken the Underground Railroad Lantern Tour offered by the Metroparks of the Toledo area? I highly recommend it and it is coming up this May 2nd:

Take a walking tour at an actual site where runaway slaves hid on their journey to freedom. Historical figures will transport you back in time to share two very different stories during the Underground Railroad Lantern Tour, Saturday, May 2 at the Lathrop House, located inside Harroun Community Park on Main Street in Sylvania.

Join Metroparks and Friends of the Lathrop House for a night of dramatic history and discover northwest Ohio's important role in battling slavery. You will hear two very different stories that span generations: one follows a slave family from Africa to Canada, while the other chronicles an abolitionist family's difficult journey from England to Sylvania, Ohio. These very different stories are fated to collide in northwest Ohio.

Available time slots from 7:30 to 10 p.m. Fee: $5. Register Here or call 419-407-9700.

Arts organizations celebrate legacies and the future

Recommended article by Christine Senack in this week's Toledo Free Press on Arts organizations celebrate legacies and the future. Part of what was shared there as it relates to upcoming events:

Upcoming Events

May 2 Paw Hoorah. Enjoy cocktails and your gourmet grazing delights while bidding on hundreds of silent auction items at. Proceeds benefit Planned Pethood’s low-cost spay/neuter programs. Tickets are $60 with a cash bar. Country club casual attire. Call (419)826-fixx or visit plannedpethood.org for more information.

May 16 Raise Some Cash. Back for a second year, this event is organized by members of Augsburg Lutheran Church to benefit the Feed Your Neighbor pantry in the 43612 zipcode. The will be held at the Blarney and features several popular local bands, and each act is slated to perform at least one song by Johnny Cash. Casual attire. $5 cover charge. For more information call 419.410.1117.

Glass City Rollers "full contact musical chairs"

This sounds like a fun one!

The Glass City Rollers are putting on the skates Friday, April 24, 2009 for full-contact musical chairs at Mickey Finn’s Pub, 602 Lagrange Street in Toledo. There will be a 50/50 Raffle and official Glass City Rollers merchandise on sale. Members of the all-women flat-track roller derby league will be available for questions about the team throughout the evening starting at 9:00 p.m. The Glass City Rollers are always seeking skaters, staff, and sponsors to keep them rolling! Friday night’s music will be provided by The Zimmerman Twins.

Visit www.glasscityrollers.com for more information.

Artomatic419! Has begun!

It's that time again Toledo for Artomatic 419! Presented by the Arts Commission of Greater Toledo Artomatic 419! starts this Saturday, April 18, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. and ends Saturday, May 2, 2009 at 11:00pm. The location for 2009 is right next to the Oliver House at 201 Morris Street and there is no admission cost. Visit the website, www.artomatic419.org for more information and there is a commercial done by Above the Shop Studies after the fold...

Earth Day event sponsored by Black Swamp Conservancy

In via e-mail:

Black Swamp Conservancy to hold Earth Day event at Forrest Woods

Perrysburg, Ohio (April 7, 2009) - Black Swamp Conservancy will host an Earth Day celebration at Forrest Woods Nature Preserve on April 25, 2009, at 10:30 a.m. The celebration will include a seed planting and nature walk. There is no charge to attend and the event is open to the public.

Forrest Woods Nature Preserve, a state nature preserve owned by the conservancy, is located near Antwerp in Paulding County, Ohio. The preserve is one of the few sites that retain the characteristics of the historic Great Black Swamp, which once stretched from Fort Wayne, Indiana, to Ohio’s Lake Erie shoreline. A variety of native plants and animals call Forrest Woods home, including many rare, threatened and endangered species.

Along with its partners at the Ohio Division of Natural Areas and Preserves and at Defenders of Wildlife, the conservancy has been restoring several fields in the preserve to a natural condition. The fields, which had been farmed before the conservancy acquired the property, are being allowed to revert back to woodland. In an effort to maintain the local genetics of the land, the conservancy collected several hundred tree seeds from the old growth woods last fall. The seeds were stored over the winter and will be planted during the Earth Day event.

After the planting, participants are invited to join the conservancy on a nature walk through the preserve. John Jaeger, former director of natural resources for Toledo Metroparks, will lead the walk. Known for its brilliant spring wildflower displays and diverse bird population, Forrest Woods Nature Preserve was named the “best spot to step into spring” by Ohio Magazine in 2007.

Those interested in participating in the Earth Day event should meet in the parking lot of Bethel United Methodist Church at the corner of Paulding County Roads 73 and 192, at 10:00 a.m. on April 25th. Participants are encouraged to bring a shovel or spade with them for the planting. The conservancy also suggests that you dress appropriately for the weather and cautions that it may be muddy in the restoration areas and on the nature walk.

For more information about the Earth Day celebration, please call Rob Krain at Black Swamp Conservancy, (419) 872-5263.

Black Swamp Conservancy, founded in 1993, is a non-profit land trust whose mission is to conserve and protect natural areas and farmland in northwest Ohio for the benefit of future generations. The conservancy has permanently protected 7,522 acres of family farms, woods, meadows and wetlands at over 70 locations in northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan. The conservancy’s territory covers the Oak Openings region, one of Ohio’s biologically most unique areas, as well as the area of the former Great Black Swamp. More information about the conservancy is available online at www.blackswamp.org.

19th Annual Heartwood Forest Council

This in via e-mail describing last years event:

Just days after the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division Of Forestry revealed plans to initiate major burning in the Shawnee State Forest , local, state and regional environmental groups announced the convening of the 18th Annual Heartwood Forest Council. The event, which will take place, Memorial Day Weekend, May 23-26, 2008, is to be held at Boy Scout Camp Oyo in the Shawnee State Forest near Portsmouth, Ohio. The theme of this year's Forest Council is "Burning Issues: Climate is a Forest Product."

The Heartwood Forest Council is the largest annual gathering of citizens from across the Eastern, Midwestern, and Southern United States who care about the health and well being of our nation's forests. This will be the second time this event has taken place in Ohio, the first being at Camp Oty Okwa in 1992.

“We are expecting more than 200 participants from communities in Ohio and nearly two dozen other states,” said Andy Mahler of Heartwood. “We had hoped to showcase the beauty and splendor of the Shawnee State Forest. With the threat of these burns, we are not sure what we will encounter in the Forest."

“We will focus on threats to our region and to human and community health, in an atmosphere of collaboration designed to form stronger personal and organizational connections,” Said David Maywhoor, Executive Director of Buckeye Forest Council. “While addressing the issues we face and celebrating the work that we do, the Forest Council will offer participants an opportunity to identify lasting solutions and proven action steps that will move us as a community toward a shared vision of a healthy, just, and sustainable society.”

The program will begin the afternoon of Friday, May 23, and continue through mid-day, Monday, May 26 (Memorial Day), and will be interspersed with ample social time, leisure, lively local music, dancing and great food. The Forest Council will be family friendly - kids of all ages are encouraged to attend.

“This year's Forest Council will explore how we can nurture sustainable local and regional networks and a culture of cooperation and care,” said Mr. Mahler. “Together we will identify viable alternatives to the dominant economy and its toxic legacy of waste and prepare ourselves with the knowledge and tools to protect ourselves, our communities, and our planet.”

“Since the 2003 ice storm, Shawnee State Forest has been devastated with nearly 7,000 acres of logging and now an open-ended experimental prescribed burning plan which could last decades.” said Cheryl Carpenter, Voices for the Forest. “In the first five years alone, 7,868 acres are scheduled to be burned. This Forest Council will bring this issue front and center nationwide.”

“This Council has something for everyone, environmentalist or not.” Ms Carpenter continued, “On Friday, Dr. Andrew Feight, Shawnee State University Associate Professor of History will be sharing the history of the Scioto River Valley and Dr. Tula Cora Watters, Chief of the Shawnee Nation, Blue Creek Band, will be speaking on the Shawnee Nation. Additionally Jenny Richards and Kevin Bradbury, Shawnee State Park, will offer a colorful presentation on the flora and fauna of Shawnee State Forest. On Saturday, there is an array of talented, local musicians including Steve Free, John Simon & Band and Mothman. And one of Ohio’s best naturalists, John Howard will lead a hike on Sunday.

The program will consist of three days of workshops, discussions, keynote speakers, and field trips. Key program elements will include:

Forest Issues: public lands management, roadless and other special areas, prescribed burning on state and national forests, genetically modified trees, sustainable forestry and low impact logging, land certification, and land management strategies and opportunities including the value of non-timber forest products.

Coal, air, energy and climate issues: coal mining and processing, including mountaintop removal, room and pillar, and longwall mining, coal-fired power plants, air pollution and global climate change. We will also talk about resurgent efforts to promote nuclear power, the alternatives to fossil fuel such as wind, solar and hydropower, and the connections between forests and energy production including cellulosic ethanol and biomass.

Sustainability issues: creating viable communities and taking responsibility for our own future; localized economies, permaculture, local and regional food production and distribution, alternative energy and transportation, traditional uses of plants and their preservation, religion and environmental protection, alternatives to the corporate control of food and seed supply; and how to sustain our minds, bodies and spirits as we seek environmental justice and transformational change.

Hosts for this year’s event include Heartwood, the Buckeye Forest Council, Save Our Shawnee State Forest, Voices for the Forest, Meigs Citizens Action Now, Protect Biodiversity in Public Forests, EarthWatch Ohio, Sierra Club, Ohio Chapter and Ohio Environmental Council.

This year's event will be held at:

We would like to invite you to the 19th annual Heartwood Forest Council, to be held Memorial Day weekend, May 22-25, 2009, at Camp McKee near the Red River Gorge in Appalachian Kentucky. The theme of this year's Forest Council is Defending the Earth, Sustaining Ourselves.

Camp McKee, is a great location just seven miles south of Mt. Sterling, with over 800 acres of forests and trails, a large lake, and sits adjacent to Pilot Knob State Nature Preserve and just a stone’s throw from the beautiful and unique Red River Gorge.

Visit www.heartwood.org/forestcouncil for more information and how to sign up.

Buckeye Forest Council announces...

Our good friend Barbara Lund, Save Our Shawnee Forest, has scheduled three hikes in the Woodland Altars forest which will be held Sundays – March 22nd, 29, and April 5th from 1:00 – 4:00 rain or shine. Woodland Altars is located at 33200 Ohio Route 41 north of Peebles in Adams County, Ohio. Participants should meet at the lodge parking area and wear appropriate footgear and clothing.
Come early and view maps and photographs.

Hike leaders include:
March 22nd – Paul Knoop
March 29th – Martin McAllister
April 5th - Brian Truitt

There are five major loop hiking trails, four through hilly forestland and one in a large prairie. The trails vary from ½ to 1 ½ miles in length and are easy to moderate difficulty. Depending on weather and trail conditions part or all of one loop will be covered on each hike.

About recent logging at the Woodland Altars, in a February 12 letter to the editor in The People’s Defender Paul Knoop wrote “…over the years I have observed numerous Boy Scout camps and other outdoor education facilities cut their large, old trees. Formerly these cut areas were dark and green and cool and lush with beech ferns, club mosses and the song of deep woodland birds. Now, after cutting, these areas are a tangle of Multiflora rose, scattered small trees and scars from the logging operation. In almost every case the money derived from the harvest was a short-term fix and the affected agency regretted the loss of their best trees. It must be remembered that once 100-year-old trees are cut it takes a full human lifetime to replace them. Several generations of children (and adults) will not see the big trees ever again.

I also want to dispel the myth that the forest will deteriorate unless it is managed by humans. Nothing could be farther from the truth. Forests left to their own devices will do perfectly well just as they did prior to humans arriving on the scene. Forests in wilderness areas, state parks and preserves and other "no cut" areas continue to be healthy and viable.”

Toledo will support Earth Hour 2009

CITY OF TOLEDO ANNOUNCES IT WILL SUPPORT WORLD WILDLIFE FUND'S EARTH HOUR 2009

Joins Tens of Millions in Turning Off Lights for Largest Climate Event in History

The City of Toledo announced today it will officially support Earth Hour 2009, a global climate event led by the World Wildlife Fund. More than 240 cities around the world have already committed to go dark for one hour on March 28, 2009 at 8:30 p.m., as tens of millions of people from all corners of the world unite in a call for global action on climate change.

Today, Mayor Finkbeiner released the following statement - "Toledo is known all over the world as one of the leading producers of clean, green, renewable alternative energies, and our participation in Earth Hour reflects our commitment to energy efficiency and natural resource conservation. We are proud and honored to be part of this international effort to raise awareness about climate change."

From Amman to Warsaw, city skylines will go dark for one hour as individuals, businesses, government buildings, schools and major landmarks turn off non-essential lighting in what will be the largest climate event in history. The list of participating cities in the US includes Atlanta, Chicago, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami and Nashville with more signing up every day.

"World Wildlife Fund is pleased that Toledo is taking part in Earth Hour 2009. As lights go out in cities around the U.S. and the world on March 28th, Earth Hour will provide world leaders with an unmistakable mandate to take action," said WWF President and CEO Carter Roberts. "The climate crisis threatens the ability of our planet to support its inhabitants. We want the world to know that Americans care about saving the planet and stand united in seeking to find solutions to climate change."

During Earth Hour 2008, more than 50 million people in 400 cities on all seven continents turned off their lights as major icons also went dark, including the Sydney Opera House, the Coliseum in Rome, Stockholm's Royal Castle, the Empire State Building and the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. Google turned its homepage black for an entire day in tribute.

The City of Toledo is asking all citizens, businesses, and organizations to turn off all non-essential lighting for one hour on March 28, 2009 between 8:30 - 9:30 PM. The City of Toledo also encourages citizens and businesses to commit to actions they can take in the coming year to reduce their carbon footprints and conserve energy.

The re-awakening begins...

I've started out with a new template, changed the links around a bit and now I'm working towards adding the content that will focus on Toledo with some other interesting tid bits now and then. There are so many releases that I get that at times are not politically related but that might be of interest that I plan to list those here.

This is also a place for me to focus on some of the things that matter to me, like 1Matters and some of the other community things that I get involved with. Take now as an example, a few of us are working on the concept of a street paper with the goal of getting some of our local homeless involved in the writing of the paper as well as giving them a chance to sell the paper. Other cities have been successful in this type of a endeavor.

Perhaps time to re-awaken

I'm still debating what I can do with this blog, I'd like to re-awaken it in a bit of a different format than the political version, with a focus on local community events, but unfortunately I haven't found the time to start.

So, perhaps I need to either do it or forget it..

Tower Brass Quintet to play December 19th

Nationally-known and Bowling Green-based brass ensemble The Tower Brass Quintet will return to Trinity United Methodist Church in Bowling Green on Wednesday, December 19 at 7:00 pm. to offer their very popular holiday concert — The Spirit of Christmas Brassed. Trinity United Methodist Church is located at 200 N. Summit St. in Bowling Green. The December 19 concert will mark the Tower Brass’s eighth annual appearance at Trinity. Admission is free and there will be a free-will offering at intermission of the concert. For information, call Trinity Church at 419-353-9031.

Christmas Brassed offers a full spectrum of holiday music, including classical and sacred music, brass ensemble arrangements of well-known traditional Christmas carols, and jazz renditions of popular tunes of the season.

Art in TARTA

If you have ever noticed some of the great artwork that is on some of our local TARTA buses it's the work of the Art in TARTA group. Our Art Community is one of the fantastic things about the Toledo area, so I urge you to visit their website and learn more:

www.artintarta.org.

Holiday Craft Show

It's time once again for the Toledo Craftsman's Guild's free holiday craft show. Each year new and repeat crafters sell their holiday and gift wares at this even and admission is free. It's a great way to see some of the talent of Toledo area residents and buy some unique gift items. It's being held again at the Lucas County Recreation Center on Key Street in Maumee, Ohio.

Listed Hours:
Friday, Nov. 23, 10AM -5PM
Saturday, Nov. 24, 10AM -5PM
Sunday, Nov. 25, 11 AM - 5 PM

Still no re-direct code

Lefty Blogs has the new Glass City Jungle linked up. Blognet News Ohio doesn't yet but I'm not going to create a post double up over on Lefty Blogs sooo until I find a re-direct code that will work with blogger without causing a syntax error? If you visited here? Head on over to the new Glass City Jungle and thanks to those of you who have updated your links.

:-)

Jack Ford makes his recommendation for the State School Board

And I disagree with him….

In this week’s Sojourner’s Truth, Jack Ford discusses the State School Board elections and makes his recommendation. While I’m glad to see the topic of this opening for the State School Board discussed, I’m disappointed that our former Mayor doesn’t even mention any other of the candidates.

more

Howard Dean in Toledo...

Marcy Kaptur spoke first with quite a bit of applause, then there were two speakers, one was Jacob Smith who was in the military and spent 14 months in Baghdad. He is now attending BGSU Firelands and was very well received by the crowd. I don’t have the spelling of name of the next speaker but she was a former UAW worker who gave a very passionate speech on what our area has gone thru as far as manufacturing job loss and the importance of talking to our friends and family about the importance of voting.

Marcy Kaptur then introduced Howard Dean...

more

Human Billboarding in Lucas County

Today, Libertarian candidate for Governor Bill Peirce was covered in the Toledo Blade. There is a photo shown of him in Toledo yesterday doing what many local candidates have been doing as well, it’s known as “Human Billboarding”.

more

Dansack District 46 Campaign Media Release with Reason #3..

From the Mark Dansack for District 46 Campaign:

Mark Dansack Stands for Change in Ohio, Mark Wagoner protects the status quo.

Beginning October 31, Mark Dansack will be recapping over the next several days the reasons why residents of District 46 will be better served by electing a voice for positive change in Ohio rather than his opponent, who embraces the present “pay to play” dynamics now running rampant in Columbus.

Reason #3, Life experiences

Mark Dansack has long been involved in the Northwest Ohio community. From his early years on, Dansack has been working in his community for positive change. As a teenager, he served as a volunteer athletic coach in his community giving back to his hometown. As a young adult, Dansack became involved in campaigns of Democratic candidates who stood for positive change and also volunteered for the American Heart Association and American Leukemia Society.

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Nookular Option Podcast with James Nusbaum interview

Don has the podcast from this morning’s interview with Jim Nusbaum, judicial candidate for the Lucas County Court of Common Pleas up here for those of you who didn’t get a chance to tune in earlier. It’s a great interview and I hope you take a listen.

Impressions from Lucas County Commissioner Debate

As an update to the below, Joshua Boak’s article in the Toledo Blade is a nice summary of last night’s debate and includes some new information.

First I’d like to thank the Toledo Public Library, they did an excellent job once again with a huge special thanks to Undrea M. Powell who was in charge of the technical aspect for the Library tonight. She is amazing and had everything all set up and ready for me with the laptop on line and even had a mouse and a mousepad. We are very lucky to have such a fantastic Library system and it’s people like Undrea who make that happen.



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Tonight's Live Blogging of the Lucas County Commissioner Debate...

Will be over at the new Glass City Jungle

Absentee Voting rules changed and Missing Absentee Ballot Requests in Lucas County

I’ve gotten several emails on the settlement that was reached concerning the questions related to providing Identification for those voting by Absentee Ballot and those voting early in person. Today’s Toledo Blade provides the basic information on this settlement.

Here in Lucas County though there appears to be a very huge issue that no one is talking about. As most of you know I recently experienced some health problems so on that weekend, I decided to be on the safe side I was going to request an absentee ballot, because I had no idea how I was going to feel. I downloaded the form, filled it out and gave it to my husband who personally delivered it to the South Toledo post office on Byrne Road, South Detroit (I always confuse the two) he took the envelope inside that was clearly marked, “Absentee Voter Request”, and put it inside the mail slot for “In Town” mail. This was mailed on Monday, October 23, 2006.

If you are interested in this post it can be found here

McNamara Press Release on Swan Creek Riverwalk…

This in from the Joe McNamara for Toledo City Council campaign:

McNamara Outlines Plan For Swan Creek Riverwalk

Council candidate says project would strengthen Erie Street Market, make downtown more attractive to business

If you are interested in this post it can be found here

Campaign ads I would have like to have seen face local “Truth Test”

The latest ad that 13-ABC and the Toledo Blade decided to focus on was from the Lucas County Commissioner’s Race. The Sarantou ad with the “apple doesnt fall far from the tree” meme was recently released.

Yet there are several ads out there that have ran of longer duration that I believe are just as negative or not more so that did not receive the attention of either 13-ABC or the Toledo Blade.

If you are interested in this post it can be found here

Blade makes endorsements for Ohio General Assembly…

This morning’s Blade contains the following summary of their endorsements for the Ohio General Assembly:

If you are interested in this post it can be found here

Toledo Blade endorsed Sykes…Plain Dealer picks Taylor

Last Friday the Toledo Blade endorsed Barbara Sykes. The Cleveland Plain Dealer on Sunday, endorsed Mary Taylor.



If you are interested in this post it can be found here

Lefty Blogs and Blog net news Ohio "feeds"

In switching over to the new Glass City Jungle it's going to take a few days for the feed from Lefty Blogs and Blog Net News Ohio to change over to the new link, which means anything posted over on the new site doesn't show up in the feeds.

What I'm going to do as a transitional stage is post the titles to the posts and then provide a link to the new place rather than duplicate the posts here. For that reason the threads that I do that with will not have the commenting option.

Internal poll numbers for Marc Dann V Betty Montgomery

More info at the new Glass City Jungle...

here