Toledo Free Press STAR – Aug. 3, 2011

INSIDE: Zygote In My Fez

aug. 3, 2011

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ACT: Richardson on the Midwest Mecca 6 Poetry: Zygote in My Fez Aug. 6 4 GLASS CITY MUSE: Dorsey on a new forum 5 SMOKE ON THE WATER: Tonic 8 SMOKE ON THE WATER: John Michael Montgomery 9 SMOKE ON THE WATER: Green River Ordinance 10 SMOKE ON THE WATER: Vendors 12 SMOKE ON THE WATER: Cornhole 13 SMOKE ON THE WATER: Contests 13 THE PULSE: Events calendar 14 COMICS: Alan Moore returns 17 SOUND JUDGMENT: Cohen on local stages 18 VIDEO GAMES: Nintendo 3DS 20 McGinnis: Craig’slist humor 22

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AUGUST 3, 2011 • Episode 2 Chapter 31 • Toledo Free Press Star, Toledo, OH: “I didn’t claw my way to the top of the food chain to eat vegetables!” — Anon.

Timberlake brings sexy back to Smoke on the Water

By Sarah Ottney TOLEDO FREE PRESS SPECIAL SECTIONS EDITOR sottney@toledofreepress.com

It’s almost time for Rachel Timberlake to go back to school. But first the Indiana elementary school teacher will open for country superstar John Michael Montgomery at Smoke on the Water — Ribs for the Red Cross in Downtown Toledo.

The 29-year-old country artist will perform at 2 p.m. Aug. 7, followed by the rib judging awards.

Montgomery will perform at 5 p.m.

Timberlake said festival-goers should expect a highenergy show.

“We like to move and we like to rock,” Timberlake told Toledo Free Press Star. “My band and I, we bring a lot of energy with us. We like to have fun and for the crowd to have fun and get into it and have a great time.”

Her band mates have musical backgrounds in rock and blues as well as country so they add a touch of other genres to her songs, Timberlake said.

Timberlake said she used to be shy, but now loves performing.

“If you were to talk to anybody who was around me growing up, they would never believe a word of me getting up on stage,” Timberlake said. “I was the girl who never said a word.

Somehow I transformed and came out of my shell. Now people wouldn’t believe I was so shy when I was younger.”

The singer grew up and lives in southern Indiana, a half-hour west of Louisville, and teaches fifth grade alongside some of her former teachers at the elementary school she attended as a girl.

Timberlake tours during the summer and performs on weekends during the school year.

Her husband, Jason, serves as her manager, driver, roadie and a little bit of everything else, Timberlake said.

Her self-titled debut album was released in October and includes the singles “Honky Tonk Queen” and “Let’s Ride.”

“That was really cool, just to have a full album recorded,” said Timberlake, who co-wrote a few of the tracks.

Timberlake said she feels God led her to music after she and her husband tried unsuccessfully to start a family.

“Things didn’t work out the way we were hoping for, but God works in mysterious ways,” Timberlake said. “I think he led me down this path of healing through music and to put myself out there and try something. You take different paths in your life and I think this is the one I’m on for a reason.

At the time I wasn’t happy about the way things were going, but I’m happy and thankful for the way things worked out.”

Timberlake said she’s excited to come to Toledo, play with Montgomery and do her part to support the Red Cross.

“We’re very excited,” Timberlake said. “It’s gonna be a great weekend and a good show.” O

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Zygote in My Fez

By Jason Mack Toledo Free Press Web Web Editor jmack@toledofreepress.com

Poets from across the nation are gathering in Toledo for a festival hosted by a pair of literary magazines. Zygote in My Coffee and Red Fez are teaming to host “Zygote in My Fez” at the Collingwood Arts Center on Aug. 6. The event is cosponsored by Toledo Free Press Star.

“It will be one of the bigger things that has come to Toledo, especially in terms of underground poetry,” said John Dorsey, program director for the Collingwood Arts Center.

“I’m expecting about 200 people here, maybe more.

They’ll be coming from all DORSEY over the country. Most of the audience we get will be people who are really hardcore about it, but I’m hoping we get some new people that have never seen something like this.”

Red Fez is an online publication featuring poetry, fiction, nonfiction, illustrations and other works. Leopold McGinnis, who founded Red Fez Publications in 2002, will be traveling from Canada to attend the festival. Editor in Chief Michele McDannold lives in Chicago and runs the day-to-day operations for the monthly online magazine, and Toledo resident Michael Grover is the head poetry editor.

Zygote in My Coffee was founded in December 2003 by Brian Fugett while he was a photographer in San Jose, Calif. It started out focused on poetry and has grown to include fiction, comic strips and anything underground. It used to follow a weekly format but it is now published twice a year online.

“The idea for the event started back on Feb. 5,” Fugett said. “I was at a big poetry reading. I started having IM conversations with Michele McDannold. Just kind of joking, we said we

should start our own poetry reading, like an annual event, later in the summer. We decided to call it ‘Zygote in My Fez.’ It started off as a fun little idea like that, and it blossomed into this big thing in Toledo now. We didn’t think it was going to happen.”

Part of getting the festival off the ground was finding a location. Fugett didn’t know where to host the event until Dorsey offered his venue for the festival.

“We were originally going to have it in Dayton, but there isn’t a good venue for it,” Fugett said. “John Dorsey offered the Toledo area and we went for it. I’d prefer to have it in Northern Ohio anyway. The Toledo and Cleveland areas are prime for poetry and the arts. The ball has been rolling ever since we picked the venue up there.”

Dorsey, a Toledo Free Press Star contributor. thinks the theater in the Collingwood Arts Center is the perfect venue for the festival.

“The acoustics are great,” Dorsey said. “It’s large, but it’s still intimate at the same time. It isn’t too big. You aren’t playing to a baseball stadium. I’ve been in theaters that size before.

Some of these people haven’t read publicly before, even though they’ve been published in the magazines. It’s kind of good to have a smaller space because you don’t want it to be too intimidating for them.”

Dorsey is performing at the event alongside several local poets, but he is excited to see performances from poets across the country.

“What Toledo doesn’t have is poets coming in from all over the place,” he said. “Typically that doesn’t happen here. You can’t make that much money doing it. If you come in, you’re going to end up losing money paying for travel. Michael Grover and I have been doing a reading series here for a couple of years. On a monthly basis, we bring in people from all over the place. It’s nothing new to us for this to happen, but this is the largest scale we’ve done here.”

One poet Dorsey is particularly looking for-

TOLEDO

Collingwood Arts Center to host Aug. 6 poetry event.

ward to seeing is Dan Smith from Cleveland.

“He will have a band with him called the Cleveland Trio, although it might be a quartet now since they added a saxophone,” Dorsey said. “He’s great. His topics are about being a working-class guy in Cleveland and the history of poetry there. The history of poetry in Cleveland is wild. There are venues where a band can’t get two people but a poet can get hundreds, and a band will get booed off the stage. That would never happen here, but it would be nice. He is part of the Rust Belt. He’s definitely an Ohio guy.”

Dorsey and other fans looking forward to Smith won’t have to worry about anything keeping him from his time slot.

GROVER “Once he was supposed to read somewhere, but he had a massive heart attack the day before,” Dorsey said. “He stil showed up the next day.

They let him out of the hospital and he went straight over there. The guy is hardcore.”

The event will feature readings by 25 poets from across the country and Canada, ranging from Paul Corman-Roberts in Oakland, Calif., to Lester Allen in Ithaca, N.Y. Corman-Roberts is looking forward to meeting many of his co-workers face-to-face for the first time.

“The Internet is an amazing thing,” he said.

“You get to know people you don’t have regular contact with. Some of these folks I’ve been working with for years and have never met them in person. I’m incredibly excited.”

“It’s a great idea, not just for Toledo but for poetry in the surrounding areas in general,” Toledo poet Craig Firsdon said. “Having great poets from across the United States come here is something you don’t see too much. I’m looking forward to it. It’s great for the art community. I don’t know of any other place that has done any-

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thing like this in recent memory.”

Fugett will emcee the festival and doesn’t plan to perform, but he said you never know what to expect at events like this.

“If worse comes to worst and I get tipsy enough, I might read something,” he said.

“Maybe I’ll read my own poetry in the voice of John Dorsey or Michael Grover. I’d definitely have to be inebriated for that.”

If that happens, it will fall right in line with Grover’s expectations for the event.

“Somebody is going to do something really crazy,” Grover said. “I guarantee it.”

Dorsey said he agrees with Grover. He warned anyone attending to “expect a circus.”

He believes most of the audience will be hardcore poets, but he encourages newcomers to check out the festival, even if only briefly.

“If you want to come in for 20 minutes or come in for the whole thing, that’s fine by us,” he said. “We’d rather someone come in for a brief period than not at all.”

The festival will run from 4 to 10 p.m. with four poets performing every hour. Red Fez will sell copies of its first ever print edition, Red Reader No. 1, at the festival. Fugett will be at the festival handing out copies of the latest edition of Zygote in My Fez. Following the festival is a public afterparty hosted by Toledo Free Press Star at the Blarney Bullpen featuring an open mic. The afterparty runs from 10 p.m. to close.

“We’re going to have an open mic for anybody who wanted to be a part of this but couldn’t get on the main list,” Dorsey said.

“We had so many people that wanted to be a part of this. There were people that got angry because they couldn’t do it. This list filled up within a week of posting we were doing it.”

The Collingwood Arts Center is located at 2413 Collingwood Blvd. Blarney Bullpen is located at 601 Monroe St. Visit www.RedFez.net/ZyFez for a full list of poets performing. The festival is free and open to the public. O

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“Summer is when a man thinks he cooks better on an outdoor grill than his wife can on an indoor stove.” — Anon.

TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM / AUGUST 3, 2011 n 5

The beginning of an era

W

hen I started this column I told you my story, how poetry first came into my life and its impact on everything that I am. I ended that very same column by telling you that now it was your turn, and I meant it.

I would like to tell you about the upcoming Toledo Free Press Star poetry page.

After a conversation with Editor in Chief Michael S. Miller at the most recent ACGT Art Walk, it was decided that we would provide a forum for the literary community, locally and beyond. What form will the page take? I don’t know, exactly, that’s the exciting part. It’s really up to you. I do have a few ideas.

I’d like to do regular pro-

how poetry

JOHN DORSEY

Glass City

MUSE

files on area poets, interviews, pieces on upcoming events, book and magazine releases and reviews, theme pages ... but most importantly I’d like to publish your poems. They’ll have to be short, at least small enough so I can fit a few on the page; I’m thinking 10-20 lines, though I won’t rule anything out.

I’d like to start with a piece

by Jason Hardung, one of the poets in the Zygote in My Fez festival, Aug. 6 at the Collingwood Arts Center, co-sponsored by www.zygoteinmycoffee.com, www.redfez.net and Toledo Free Press. Hardung may not be from our fair city, but let’s hope Toledo gets under his skin and he never wants to leave.

‘The Way Things Shine’ Walking through the alley Behind the Elks Lodge Trying to avoid the people on the sidewalk who Hold hands and point at architecture who Only worry about interest rates Whether their eggs are organic And if the weather will cooperate with their plans

When a guy wearing an old army coat A sleeping bag strapped to his back by a shoestring, Afro matted into uneven dreads And four teeth left, all gold, stopped me I prepared to say I didn’t have any money Or cigarettes, because I really didn’t He shook my hand never moving from my eyes I asked what was wrong and he said, There’s something special about you Is that good or bad, I asked All good my man, it’s almost like you shine I told him thank you but I don’t feel like I do

Of course it was a ploy to soften me up

It had to be, strangers don’t say stuff like that He was still looking at me Mouth open, eyes fixated like he saw a ghost I started walking away Wondering if it was true

Positive he’d call me back Positive he would ask for something — He never did.

— Jason Hardung Hardung live in Fort Collins, Colo., and is the author of several collections of poetry including “The Broken and the Damned,” published by Epic Rites Press in 2009. He has read his work at a number of different venues.

I’m going to start by asking for poems about Toledo; tell me a story, good or bad. Send submissions to glasscitymuse1@yahoo.com. Until next time ... keep your pencil sharp. O John Dorsey resides in Toledo’s Old West End. His work is widely published and he has been nominated for the Pushcart Prize several times.

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”We’re like George Foreman out in the streets — we grillin’ ‘em.” — Ghostface Killah

Midwest Mecca

I

f not for art and activism, I wouldn’t know what to do with myself in Toledo. Good thing the city is so rich with each that I don’t need to go looking for ways to spend my time.

In varied ways, I am able to participate in both.

Sometimes I’m an artist. Sometimes I’m an activist. Sometimes I’m a promoter and enthusiast of other people’s art and activism.

Recently, I traveled to Colorado to see the mountains and spent two days in Denver (quite the art town in its own right) meeting and talking to all kinds of people about what we’ve got going on around here. I worked into every conversation with my new friends that “Toledo is a Midwest Mecca for change and creativity.” I invited everyone to come and visit and see all the action in Toledo. And when I came home, I saw nothing but the heart, potential and hard work being tirelessly done in this magical city that I had been talking about.

True, we have a few holes to fill in yet. But, we are well on our way to peak vibrancy. I brought several ideas home with me from my trip for art programs to add to the development of UpTown and Downtown and got to work on them straight away. Not surprisingly, I was able to make immediate measurable progress with every encounter (planned or otherwise) that had to do with these initiatives.

Toledo offers destination of activism and creativity.

Everyone I talked to was excited about the prospects and each in their own way own way said, “Yes.” Either they added input I would have never considered, or they offered help, or they led me to the next person to say “yes.”

Again, I was not surprised by this because every time I try to make improvements to my community through art, the people and systems who could potentially make it difficult to do so by naysaying or Rachel putting up roadblocks simply do not — they see how crucial it is that we love and invest in this place. If we don’t, everyone is going to leave.

So, luckily, all is well on the art front. Juxtapose that with the activism front and it’s a really good thing I have both. For my own sanity’s sake, I need to see that at least one of my careers is actually making a difference. If you’ve been keeping up with the state of do-

mestic violence in Toledo, you may know that Independent Advocates released a Domestic Violence Courtwatch Report in June. You can find it at www.iatoledo.org. You may also know that in 2010, in Toledo Municipal Court, where the vast majority of domestic violence criminal cases are handled, there is an 82 percent rate of dismissal. Historically, the reason given by the court for this statistic is victim failure to appear.

If you talk to the actual people who are living in the violence that brings their lives into the courthouse, and beyond that, the people who do appear in court for upwards of six hearings on a case that eventually results in increased personal danger and minimal consequences for their abusers, you will hear them say, “I understand why people don’t come to court.”

RICHARDSON

ACT

Other communities have faced these same challenges and have seen drastic improvements with the implementation of dedicated domestic violence dockets. Three-hundred jurisdictions around the country have created domestic violence dockets and have seen increased victim participation as well as reduced rates of repeat offenses.

The Courtwatch Report details funding opportunities that are available for a dedicated docket as well as an Ohio Supreme Court program that will assist Toledo Municipal Court in the implementation of it. And yet, the court continues to say, “No.” In 1987, a housing court was established to streamline cases and to be presided over by one judge elected to the position.

We are told that similar plans are being considered for a veterans court.

Why not a domestic violence court? If you’re as curious as I, why not ask them?

Activism is often as easy as making a phone call or writing a letter. It’s practically your responsibility as a Toledoan living in this city of art and activism. O Rachel Richardson is an activist, musician, cofounder and co-director of Independent Advocates, and a product of Toledo, Ohio. Email her at star@toledofreepress.com.

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“It’s not a real barbecue until the fire department shows up.” — Anon

Botanical Garden hosts Open House The Toledo Botanical Garden and Toledo GROWs is hosting a Wine & Cheese Open House on Aug. 3 from 5 to 7 p.m.

The event will take place at Oneida City Farm and will include a tour of the proposed site for its training center.

The occasion will also include information about employment, education and resources for those involved in urban agriculture and community gardening.

For more information, call the Toledo Botanical Garden at (419) 536-5566. O — Zach Davis

CAC to feature Detroit pop artists Aug. 5 The Collingwood Arts Center will feature pop artists Carl Oxley III, Tim Gralewski and Tim Burns in an exhibit opening Aug. 5.

The three artists are all based in Detroit.

Oxley’s paintings, utilizing bold lines and bright colors, are often vivid representations of animals and other funky creatures.

“I love Painting,” Oxley wrote on his website. “Most of all, I love making people laugh and smile. My art is almost always happy and humorous, with bright colors and crazy characters.”

Gralewski specializes in screen printing — passing the ink or paint through a mesh covered frame and stencil onto the painting’s surface.

“In my work I try to create a unique sense of color, form and composition,” Gralewski

wrote on his website. “I find interest in the artistic representation and emotion of everyday life, occurrences and actions. I see my art as a reflection of contemporary life, focused on the positive and emotional impact of the viewer.”

Burns is known for his more than 200 Detroit cityscapes. He has also completed many numerous commissioned works, including a painting representing Detroit in the 2008 Verizon Wireless “How Sweet the Sound” competition.

He was listed as one of the “Best Local Artists to Collect” in Hour Detroit magazine in 2007 and as “Best Local Artist” by RealDetroit Weekly in 2010. O — Patrick Timmis

TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM / AUGUST 3, 2011 n 7

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”Grilling is not just about lighting a fire.” — Bobby Flay

Tonic brings the hits

By Mike Bauman Toledo Free Press Star Staff Writer mbauman@toledofreepress.com

Tonic singer and guitarist Emerson Hart said songwriting has been central to the success and longevity of the band. He had no idea, though, just how big “If You Could Only See” would be.

The follow-up single to “Open Up Your Eyes” off Tonic’s debut album “Lemon Parade” (1996), “If You Could Only See” went on to become the No. 1 most-played rock song of 1998.

“There’s no way you can prepare or anticipate for that,” Hart said to Toledo Free Press Star.

“You have to remember that on the first record, ‘Open Up Your Eyes,’ that was a No. 1 rock song. I thought that was, ‘Wow!’ I was like, ‘Man, I guess this is as good as it gets.’ I was totally surprised and excited about it.’

“And then, ‘If You Could Only See’ hit and then I was like, ‘OK. This is a whole other thing.’

You don’t ever expect to prepare for any of that.

It’s lightning in a bottle. You open it, and it strikes you in the face and you just hang on.”

Comprised of Hart (vocals/guitar), Jeff Russo (guitar) and Dan Lavery (bass), Tonic will per-

form Aug. 6 at the Smoke on the Water — Ribs for the Red Cross event in Promenade Park.

In addition to his work with Tonic, Hart released a solo album in 2007, “Cigarettes & Gasoline,” which produced two Top 20 singles. Now 42, Hart said becoming a father made him realize the journey was not about him, a message he passes on to the younger artists he works with.

And while Hart has helped them on their journeys, they have helped him remember the excitement of when Tonic got its start.

Fifteen years after the release of “Lemon Parade,” Hart still feels excitement on tour when he sees teenage girls in the crowd singing along to the band’s songs with their mothers.

“That’s interesting to me,” Hart said. “That’s a real generational marker and I love that. It’s a real testament to what we did as a band and how songs will live if they’re great.”

Tonic will perform at Smoke on the Water — Ribs for the Red Cross on Aug. 6. The event will be open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Aug. 5-6, and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Aug. 7. Admission is $5 for adults, while kids 12 and younger get in free. Call (419) 329-2619 for presale tickets. For more information, visit www. ribs4redcross.com. O

Tonic will headline Smoke on the Water — Ribs for the Red Cross on Aug. 6.

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Kickin’ it up

By Vicki L. Kroll Toledo Free Press STAR Staff Writer vkroll@toledofreepress.com

John Michael Montgomery is a morning person. He called promptly at 8:30 a.m.

“I get up early,” the singer said. “I hate wasting sunshine.”

He’s got a lot to do.

“Today I’m going to be working on my lawnmower, getting the blades sharpened,” he said from his Kentucky home. “I’m one of those kinds of guys; I just like to get out and do things. I can’t sit around the MONTGOMERY house. I like to be piddlin’, doing something.”

Like putting together a new disc.

“I’ve been working on a documentary-style live album,” he said. “I’ve made live recordings of shows on and off for probably the last decade.

And I decided to take some of those songs from those live shows and tell a little story about each song — how I ended up with the song, where it came from and how it ended up getting recorded.”

The man has a lot of songs that topped the country charts: “Be My Baby Tonight,” “If You’ve Got

TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM / AUGUST 3, 2011 n 9

John Michael Montgomery brings country spice to Aug. 7 ribs event.

Love,” “I Can Love You Like That,” “The Little Girl.”

Montgomery shared what he called the best story on the disc: “I just came off my first album [‘Life’s a Dance’], which was hugely successful. I didn’t expect it to be that successful, you know, because I’m just an old farm boy from Kentucky.

I was just hoping and praying I’d make the Top 40 with something and I’d be tickled to death.

“So ‘I Love the Way You Love Me’ was out, and it was on the first album, and it was going to be No. 1 on the weekend I hooked up with [songwriter] Frank Myers,” Montgomery said.

“We were sitting around and writing here and there. And Bob Kingsley came on the Top 40 American Country Countdown, and he got all the way to No. 1, and this was what I was waiting for my whole life: Bob Kingsley to say my name on the radio as having the No. 1 record. So after he did, I looked at Frank Myers, and I said, ‘I’m not going to be any good the rest of the night.’ I was like, I can’t believe Bob Kingsley just told the whole world that John Michael Montgomery has the No. 1 song on the American Country Countdown.

“So Frank looked at me and said, ‘I totally understand, but I’ve got this song on me that I wrote several years ago, and I’m not with this publishing company anymore and they don’t ever push it, so I have to pitch it myself. And I just want you to take some time and listen to it,

see what you think. I think it’s really a big hit.’ It had been on hold by several artists — Alabama, I think, was one of the groups that had it on hold — but it just never did get cut and it ended up falling through the cracks of Nashville. And he was the only one trying to push this song because he believed in it so much.

“The song was ‘I Swear,’ and I put it in the little cassette player we had there and played the song and looked at him and said, ‘That’s a beautiful song.’ I loved the song and ended up cutting it and the rest is history. I thought ‘I Love the Way You Love Me’ was going to be the biggest song I’d ever have; I thought that was going to be my signature song. And then ‘I Swear’ came out and took it to another level.”

“I Swear” was Billboard’s No. 1 country song for 1994. The baritone also chalked up the top song for 1995 with “Sold (The Grundy County Auction Incident).”

Montgomery, who has sold 14 million discs according to the Recording Industry Association of America, has a knack for finding great songs.

“I think you have to be able to sing about stuff that people can relate to on an everyday basis,” he said. “ ‘Life’s a Dance’ is obviously a philosophical-type song that talks about things are going to happen in life and you’ve got to be able to turn the page and pick yourself back up off the ground

and move on, and time will heal.”

Montgomery will serve up a lot of hits at Smoke on the Water - Ribs for the Red Cross on Aug. 7 at 5 p.m. in Promenade Park. Tickets are $5; children 12 and younger and military personnel with ID are free. When you’re sampling the ribs, look for the headliner.

“I will take me a little walk — nobody notices, they don’t even look for me, because I look just like everybody else, ball cap and Tshirt and shorts — and I’ll be easing around there because I definitely love ribs. And when there’s an abundance of them, you can bet I’m going to be out trying some,” he said.

When he is at home, Montgomery likes to fire up the grill.

“If there’s one thing about grilling that I tell people, if you want a good steak, you’ve got to keep it moist while it’s cooking. And, of course, you know one of the best ways to keep that moist steak, don’t take the good beer, but go and buy some really cheap beer and you’ve just got to pour it over the top while you’re cooking, and it’s amazing. And not only does it help keep it moist while you’re cooking it, but also it adds a little flavor to it.” O

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Saturday, August 6th

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Upcoming Event Monday, August 7:

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Check out our weekly event lists at Tres Belle Wine & Martini Lounge.

10 n AUGUST 3, 2011 / TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM

“World leaders are BBQ eaters.”

Push back the darkness Green River Ordinance to rock the riverfront on Aug. 5.

By Jason Mack Toledo Free Press Star Web Editor jmack@toledofreepress.com

Green River Ordinance is headlining Smoke on The Water – Ribs for the Red Cross on Aug. 5, and lead singer Josh Jenkins can’t wait to try some ribs.

“One of the coolest things about being in a band is getting to see all the different places, being a part of cool events and meeting cool people,” he said. “We’re excited. We love meeting new people and playing new places. We’re from the South, so we love ribs. Barbecue of any sort is important.”

Jenkins plans to maintain some self-control when eating the ribs, otherwise his performance could become stationary.

“We’ve done a lot of fairs and summertime events where they have amazing food,” Jenkins said. “If you can play a show with awesome food, it’s pretty incredible. It also provides a little trouble because you eat a lot and try to play the show. You don’t feel like moving around at all at that point.”

The band is made up of Jenkins on vocals, guitar and piano, Joshua Wilkerson on guitar, Denton Hunker on drums, Jamey Ice on guitar and his brother Geoff Ice on bass.

Jenkins met the Ice brothers through mutual friends in 2000 and joined their blues rock band.

He recruited his classmate Wilkerson shortly after. Hunker joined the band in college while it played at a few college campuses in Texas.

“It doesn’t feel like it’s been that long,” Jenkins said. “It’s crazy. It’s wild to think about and look back on the growing process. We went to school for a few years while we were doing the band fulltime. We would play on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. We’d get back to Ft. Worth at 2 or 3

in the morning and wake up for an 8 o’clock class. It got to a point where we couldn’t do that anymore.”

Jenkins planned to transfer to Texas Christian University after earning an associate degree from Tarrant County College, but the band decided to pursue music full-time.

“We had to pick one or the other, and we picked the band,” he said. “I don’t know what I’d have said 11 years ago if you asked if we’d still be doing it, but it’s been cool to see the process continue to grow.”

Part of that growth has come from recording EPs, where the band sometimes strays from its pop rock sound.

“Anytime you can just explore and have fun while playing, writing and recording music, I think that’s how it’s meant to be,” Jenkins said.

“Sometimes you end up getting cornered with your style. We started as a blues rock band and transitioned to a pop rock band. You can easily get cornered into a comfort zone you operate in.”

The band released both the “Wait A Minute More EP” and “The Morning Passengers EP” in 2010. “‘The ‘Morning Passengers EP’ was an EP where we wanted to write music and record it in a way we’ve never done before,” Jenkins said. “We just feel like we’re not one-dimensional. We love pop, we love rock ‘n’ roll, we love acoustic, and we love folk. We love it all. We wanted to make the EP to convey some of that.”

Green River Ordinance experimented with several new instruments on the EP, including banjo, mandolin, harmonica and an old Hammond organ.

“You dive into that stuff and apply what you know,” Jenkins said. “We just got in a room and were exploring. I wouldn’t say we’re avid, amazing banjo or mandolin players but the

Green River Ordinance hails from Fort Worth, Texas.

PHOTO AND COVER PHOTO COURTESY CAPITOL MUSIC GROUP

beauty of creating is you can just explore it and stumble across some cool stuff.”

Jenkins said Green River Ordinance likes to give fans all the music it makes, whether through an EP or releasing songs online. The band uses the extra songs to propel its charity website TheHopeGROs.com by selling songs with all proceeds going to charity.

“One of our main passions as a band is to use our music for more than just ourselves,” Jenkins said. “The reason we are in music is to help push back the darkness and help the world shine a

light. We tried to think of how we could use the music we’ve released to engage the fan base we have and share causes we are passionate about.

Hope GROs was born out of that idea. We’re always thinking of how to use Green River Ordinance to help people. That’s kind of our mission statement as a band. We want to be more than just musicians playing music.”

Each member of the band chooses a charity for the website, and fans select which charity their purchases will go toward. n GRO CONTINUES ON 11

a poetry feztival

Saturday, August 6 from 4-10 pm @ the Collingwood Arts Center

“I love using gas grills because they are easier to heat and it’s much easier to control the flames.” — Bobby Flay n GRO CONTINUED FROM 10

‘‘

Jenkins chose International Justice Mission, an organization rescuing victims of individual human rights abuse around the world.

“We live in a place where liberty and justice is something we feel we’re entitled to,” Jenkins said. “There are places in the world that don’t get that. In certain areas, there are things such as sex trafficking and slave trade. The reality of that happening on a daily basis across the globe is overwhelming. IJM partners with law enforcement to help bring some of these perpetrators to justice. They are really good at it. They know the ins and outs of these places. It’s a long-term effort to bring about justice in some of the darkest places in the world.”

The band launched the charity in April 2010 after the success of 2009’s “Out of My Hands,” its first album for Virgin Records. The album reached No. 10 on the Billboard Heatseekers chart with two singles making the Billboard Adult Top 40. “Out of My Hands” drew comparisons to bands like Third Eye Blind and Matchbox Twenty.

“We love pop rock,” Jenkins said. “We are a product of the ’90s. We grew up during that age.

We love Third Eye Blind and Matchbox Twenty.

We love that style. We grew up on Tom Petty and James Taylor. We like mixing all that with some U2 and modern stuff. We’ve kind of transitioned and progressed into more of a Southern soul kind of rock.”

The success of the album has led to the band having songs featured on more than 20 TV shows.

We love pop rock. We are a product of the ’90s. We grew up during that age.

We love Third Eye Blind ... we grew up on Tom Petty.

Josh JENKINS Lead singer, Green River Ordinance

’’

“It’s one of those things that is always interesting to see where they put the song,” Jenkins said. “It’s really cool to write something then someone uses it in a scene and it helps propel an emotion. They just used our song ‘Rise Up’ on the show ‘MasterChef.’ I thought it was pretty cool. It’s a song we wrote for an AT&T commercial for the Olympics. It’s been used for ‘The Hills’ and all sorts of MTV shows, shows that I don’t watch.”

The band is finishing its latest full-length album this month, which should be released in early 2012 by Virgin Records America.

Green River Ordinance will perform at Smoke on the Water — Ribs for the Red Cross on Aug. 5. The event will be open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Aug. 5-6, and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Aug. 7. Admission is $5 for adults, while kids 12 and younger get in free.

Call (419) 329-2619 for presale tickets. For more information, visit www.ribs4redcross.com. O

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TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM / AUGUST 3, 2011 n .11

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12 n AUGUST 3, 2011 / TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM

”Barbecue is a guy thing, a throwback to the spit-roasted woolly mammoth.” — Molly O’Neill

Rib options span range of styles and flavors

By Sarah Ottney TOLEDO FREE PRESS SPECIAL SECTIONS EDITOR sottney@toledofreepress.com

Rib vendor Tye Hightower says he has no chance of taking home a trophy at Smoke on the Water – Ribs for the Red Cross.

But he’s OK with that.

The owner of Baldy-Q Rib Shack in Swanton — one of 11 rib vendors to be at the Downtown Toledo event — plans to use the weekend as just one more opportunity to share his passion for Memphis-style ribs.

“I do not sauce my ribs. We’re the only ones there that are a true Memphis-style house.

I have a far superior product than half the people out there, but people in the north think you have to have sauce on your ribs. We always hope to come home with the trophy, but you either love Memphis or you think there’s something wrong with Memphis.”

Hightower learned his techniques from the cook at a boys’ home in Hattiesburg, Miss.

“I lived in Toledo until I was 11, but as a young kid I got kicked out of the house and went to Mississippi,” Hightower said. “The barbecue came from a boys’ home I lived in. I totally hung out with this black lady who ran the kitchen; I didn’t hang out with other kids. Every Sunday she made barbecue and I would sit out back with her. As I got older, I moved away and lived all through the South, but when I turned 19, I got a real hankering for Miss Janet’s ribs.”

The rest, as they say, is history.

Other rib vendors include: O AJ’s Doolittles (Lambertville): “There’s a lot of good rib vendors out there, but we’re pretty confident,” said co-owner Brad Jennings, winner of the 2009 and 2010 People’s Choice award and the 2010 Judges’ Choice award.

Jennings credits his cooking technique, dry rub and homemade secret recipe barbecue sauce for giving him the edge.

“Obviously after two years of winning the rib-off, we’re definitely known for ribs,” Jennings said. “We sell a lot of ribs every week, but our whole menu is dynamite. There’s nothing weak on our menu whatsoever.”

O Deet’s BBQ (Maumee): A new contender this year will be Deet’s BBQ of Maumee, which opened a mobile rib unit in May 2010 and a Maumee restaurant in September.

Deet’s cooks with a wood smoker using a homemade dry rub, said Trevor Deeter, who co-owns the business with father Bob Deeter

Smok e

AUg

his Co-owner Brad Jennings of AJ’s Doolittles in Lambertville will try to defend and Choice s People’ both won he which at awards rib year’s last sweep of Judges’ Choice. Doolittles also won People’s Choice in 2009.

TOLEDO FREE PRESS STAR PHOTO BY JOSEPH HERR

and stepmom Lisa Deeter.

“We do everything the low and slow way, over a hardwood fire,” Deeter said. “It takes five to 14 hours, depending on what we’re smoking.

He said the family is excited for its first Smoke on the Water – Ribs for the Red Cross.

“We have a lot of regulars who have been asking if we’re going to be a part of this so we’re excited to go out there and see how we rank amongst the community,” Deeter said.

O Sgt. Oinks BBQ (Tiffin): Also making its first appearance at Smoke on the Water – Ribs for the Red Cross will be Sgt. Oinks. Gary Stephens, who owns the nearly 20-year-old catering service with his wife, Teresa, said his ribs will feature a new dry rub recipe.

“I changed my dry rub about five to six weeks ago and have won two firsts and two seconds [in rib-judging contests] since I changed it,” Stephens said. “It’s doing very well for me in judging and hopefully will do well for me there

too. There’s a lot of good guys with good ribs there. Personal taste is what it comes down to.”

O Texas Roadhouse (Toledo): Texas Roadhouse is known for its steak and falloff-the-bone ribs and Managing Partner Scott Schraeger said he’s looking forward to another year at Smoke on the Water – Ribs for the Red Cross.

“The main things that sets us apart is we do baby back ribs. Most people do spareribs,” Schraeger said.

“It falls off the bone so you don’t need a fork. It’s tender, juicy and extremely meaty.”

O Sidelines (Toledo and Lambertville): Co-owner Eric Sitter said Sidelines braises rather than smokes its ribs.

“That’s the biggest difference. I’d say 90 percent of the places smoke their ribs, but we braise ours,” Sitter said. “We also use a premium baby back rib we order from Chicago.

A lot of the places use spareribs. Baby back ribs are the filet mignon of the rib world, the best you can get.

“We also use a homemade sauce. Nobody’s got a sauce that tastes like ours. Our ribs are very

lean, too. You can pretty much eat our ribs and there’s a pile of bones. There’s no fat. When you braise ribs, the fat melts away.

The flavor’s still there, but no fat.”

O Twist & Shout 4 BBQ (Carey, Ohio): The mobile unit of the family-owned Twist and Shout Family Restaurant in Carey is returning to Smoke on the Water — Ribs for the Red Cross under a new name. Last year, they were called Roustabout BBQ, but decided to take a name to match the restaurant.

“We do St. Louis-cut ribs,” said Diane Coulston, who co-owns the business with her husband, John. “We hickory smoke them and then put them on the grill and we put on barbecue sauce and caramelize them. It makes them just like eating candy. We also do hickory-smoked pulled pork, beef brisket and smoked baked beans.”

O Po Mo’s Ribs (Toledo): Morris Stanley, who owns the mobile rib stand, said he offers St. Louis-style spareribs with a Southern-style dry rub.

Other rib vendors at the event will be Famous Dave’s BBQ of Toledo, Big Moe’s of Kalamazoo and Johnson’s BBQ of Chesapeake, Va. Although many vendors cited the atmosphere and competition as reasons they love Smoke on the Water – Ribs for the Red Cross, most pointed to the fundraising aspect as the best part of the event.

“What I like the best is it’s raising funds for a great organization,” said Jennings of AJ’s Doolittles. “For the price it is to get into the event and being on the water, it’s just a fun weekend for a lot of people to come out and try a lot of great ribs.”

For more information, call (419) 329-2619 or visit www.ribs4redcross.com. O

“Grilling is an art.” — James Beard

TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM / AUGUST 3, 2011 n 13

Cornhole tournament gives 20 teams a shot at glory

By Jason Mack

Toledo Free Press Star Web Editor jmack@toledofreepress.com

The fourth-annual Smoke on the Water — Ribs for the Red Cross will feature what Event Chairperson Rachel Hepner Zawodny hopes becomes an annual cornhole tournament.

“It was just something else to add to bring people Downtown and get people excited about coming Downtown,” Zawodny said. “Cornhole is a huge sport, especially in Toledo. We thought this might be a nice addition to the event.”

er t a W On the 11

0 g. 5-7, 2

Kids’ Area to feature Oobleck and more

book “Bartholomew and the Oobleck,” in which the king becomes bored with normal weather and his magicians make sticky greenish Parents can take their chil- goo fall out of the sky instead.

Hepner-Zawodny, Rachel dren walk ing on water at Smoke chairperson for Smoke on the on the Water. ing runn lly, ifica spec e Water – Ribs for the Red Cross, Or, mor inaImag said the purpose of the Kids’ Area on Oobleck — an activity the of part as host will is to give parents a safe and fun ention Station ren. event’s free Kids’ Area, open from 1 vironment to bring their child ent artm Dep Fire do 7. .

Tole Aug ay, The to 4 p.m. Sund is A YMC , the laws and k will bring a truc Oobleck defies Newton’s rson Bus. espe Fun spok its a n, ging Koli brin a said Ann The Toledo Zoo is bringing for Imagination Station. When a is leck Oob al artifacts, and, in addition to ly, gent anim touched sure pres the Oobleck, Imagination Station liquid, but when heavier . solid a mes beco it will have a slime craft and an Alkais applied, ss acro Seltzer rocket.

“If someone was to walk Meanwhile, Imagine Madison it casually, they would sink in it, set up a but if they ran across it with force, Avenue School of Arts will East the and er Meij said. n and lk Koli ” , nwa solid moo it would be Children will be allowed to Toledo Family Center are also spon be also will e foot Ther y-3ot-b ities.

7-fo activ g a ss sorin run acro vat of Oobleck — a shallow vat, face painting and a clown.

Parents are encouraged to superin case anyone slows down too vise their children and participate with much and sinks. e mad n ensio susp a is them in the activities.

Oobleck For an Oobleck recipe, visit from cornstarch and water, meaning lve, disso not does ination Station’s website at h Imag starc the corn www.ima gination stat iont oled o. but is literally suspended. the e gniz reco may org/content/ and search “How to Children s Seus Dr. make Oobleck.” O name Oobleck from the

By Patrick Timmis

R TOLEDO FREE PRESS Star STAFF WRITE ptimmis@toledofreepress.com

The 20-team tournament will follow a double elimination format. It begins at 1 p.m.

Aug. 6 in front of the steam plant along the river. The final match of the tournament will take place on center stage Aug. 7 from 1:15-2 p.m. The winning team will receive VIP passes to that night’s John Michael Montgomery concert along with other prizes.

Registration is still open for the tournament and costs $40 per team. To register a team, contact Toledo Red Cross Events Coordinator Stephanie Lent at (419) 329-2619.

Luke Harman, a firefighter with the Toledo Fire and Rescue Department, is helping organize the event. This includes building 20 wooden cornhole boards and

80 bags filled with shelled corn. Harman has organized cornhole events in the past for locations such as The Blarney, Headliners, Ottawa Park and others.

“A lot of people are playing cornhole nowadays,” Harman said. “It’s a good thing to do outdoors. Smoke on the Water is an outdoor drinking event, and so is cornhole.”

Smoke on the Water will take place at Promenade Park in Downtown Toledo at 250 Water St. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Aug 5 and 6 and from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Aug. 7. Admission is $5 and free for children 12 and younger.

Visit www.Ribs4RedCross.com for more information. O

Coleslaw-eating contest added to event

finding your groove and getting in it. I really think a big part of sottney@toledofreepress.com it is mind over matter, I really do.”

Area speed-eaters will now Holowicki said have two chances to test their he started entering prowess at Smoke on the Water – eating contests as a Ribs for the Red Cross. joke, but now it’s beA new race, Baldy-Q Rib Shack’s come a hobby. He has Seven-Minute Slaw Brawl, will done pierogi, pączki, join annual favorite Famous Dave’s hot dogs, burritos, Pulled Pork Eating Contest. sliders, calamari, The winner of the inaugural Slaw COLLEEN TAYLOR PHOTO COURTESY pizza and more. Last Brawl, set for 6 p.m. Aug. 5, will be year’s event was his first pulled pork eating contest. the contestant who eats the most Holowicki said his focus during the event is solely on Baldy-Q spicy coleslaw in seven the plate in front of him. minutes – and also keeps it down for seven minutes afterward.

“During that time, it’s just me and whatever’s on that Holowicki Baldy-Q Rib Shack owner Tye plate,” Holowicki said. “That’s all I’m focused on. I’m not going Hightower said he asked Facebook to look down the table and see how anyone else is doing. fans of the Swanton business to vote for what contestants I’d like to win; I’d like to get my title back, but I also should eat in the contest and coleslaw won. Other choices understand it’s a contest. Anything can happen. I’m just included spicy jalapenos, ribs, cornbread and pickled okra. hoping to come out and have a good time.”

“I grew up down South where eating contests are reHolowicki said he prepares by drinking half-gallons ally popular,” Hightower said. “We are a true mom and pop of water to get his stomach used to feeling full and he place. It’s just me and my wife. We did it as a marketing tool doesn’t eat or drink much the day of the contest. to get our name out against the bigger corporations.”

The worst part is walking by the rib vendors and not The $500 prize package will include a Slaw Brawl being able to eat. trophy, $150 in Baldy-Q gift certificates, a Baldy-Q T“That’s the big tease,” ” Holowicki said. “You get there shirt and more. and you’re already hungry and then there’s all these inEntry forms can be filled out at Baldy-Q Rib Shack, 90 credible aromas. And then afterward you’re not really in Dodge St., in Swanton. Participation is free. Competitors the mood to eat ribs or anything.” will be drawn from the collected applications and notified Holowicki said considered entering the coleslaw event about five days prior to the competition. as well, but thought two contests in one weekend might Defending champion Matthew Holowicki of Plym- be too much. outh, Mich., will return for this year’s Famous Dave’s “I could probably eat anything if I put my mind to it, Pulled Pork Eating Contest. Last year, Holowicki finished but that’s raw cabbage. Your body’s going to have a lot to his 3-pound serving of Famous Dave’s pulled pork in a say,” Holowicki said. “I once won two pączki contests in record-breaking seven minutes, 10 seconds. one day, but my body was very angry.”

Holowicki said he heard there may be other past Entry forms can be filled out at Famous Dave’s BBQ, champions returning for the contest, which is set for 6:30 4757 Monroe St. Participation is free. Competitors will be p.m. Aug. 6. drawn from the collected applications and notified about “It sounds like there’s going to be some heavy com- five days prior to the competition. petition this year, so it’s going to be interesting,” HoloThe $500 prize package includes VIP tickets to the wicki said. “Three pounds of pulled pork. That’s a lot John Michael Montgomery concert and a gas grill from of food. I don’t know the secret. Everybody has their Reliance Propane. style how they eat and really it’s about the speed and For more information, visit ribs4redcross.com. O

By Sarah Ottney

TOLEDO FREE PRESS SPECIAL SECTIONS EDITOR

14 n AUGUST 3, 2011 / TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM

Compiled by Whitney Meschke Events are subject to change.

MUSIC The Ark This small venue offers a showcase for lesser-known acts.

316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor. (734) 761-1451, (734) 761-1800 or www.theark.org.

O Tim Robbins & the Rogues Gallery Band: 8 p.m. Aug. 3, $35.

O The Steel Wheels: 8 p.m. Aug. 4, $15.

O Bruce Robison, Kelly Willis: 8 p.m. Aug. 5, $20.

O Bob Black & His Bluegrass Boys, Al Berard and friends: 7 p.m. Aug. 6, $20.

O Jan Krist, Jim Bizer: 7:30 p.m. Aug. 7, $15.

O The Outside Track: 8 p.m. Aug. 8, $15.

O The Persuasions: 8 p.m. Aug. 9, $25.

O Taj Mahal Trio, The Luke Winslow-King Trio: 8 p.m.

Aug. 10, $15.

O Tommy Malone: 8 p.m. Aug. 11, $20.

Bar 145 This new venue features burgers, bands and bourbon, if its slogan is to be believed. 5304 Monroe St. bar145toledo. com.

O DJ J Wayne: Sundays.

O Jeff Stewart: Tuesdays.

O 88 Keys: Aug. 3.

O Hip Kitty: Aug. 4.

O 4th Day Echo: Aug. 5.

O Downstroke: Aug. 6.

O Rocket Men: Aug. 10.

O The Brave Youngsters: Aug. 11.

The Blarney Irish Pub Catch local acts while taking in the pub’s modern Irish and American fare. 601 Monroe St. (419) 418-2339 or www. theblarneyirishpub.com.

O Rick Whited: Aug. 4.

O Venyx: Aug. 5.

O Tru Brew: Aug. 6.

O Jeff Stewart: Aug. 11.

Famo us White Chicken Chili New England Clam Chow der

“Vegetables are not food. Vegetables are what food eats.” — Ricky, BBQsearch.com

Blind Pig

Centennial Terrace

French Quarter J. Pat’s Pub

A variety of rock, soul, pop and alternative acts perform at this bar. 208 S. First St., Ann Arbor. $3-$20 unless noted.

(734) 996-8555 or blindpigmusic.com.

O Nightlife Pop, Charlie Slick, Compartment: 9:30 p.m. Aug. 3.

O Graders, Jehovah’s Witness Protection Program, Lawless Carver, Coke Dick Motorcycle Awesome: 9:30 p.m. Aug. 4.

O Ann Arbor Soul Club, Robert Wells, Brad Hales: 8 p.m. Aug. 5.

O Skeleton Birds, Chris Bathgate, the Boys Themselves: 9:30 p.m. Aug. 6.

O Matt G., 5 Ela, 87, A.P., Donnie Destro, M Select: 8 p.m. Aug. 10.

O Company of Thieves, the Hounds Below, Gold Motel: 9:30 p.m. Aug. 11.

This venue next to a quarry hosts dance parties, swing bands and rockers. 5773 Centennial Road, Sylvania.

(419) 882-1500, www.centennialterrace.org or www. ticketmaster.com.

O The Johnny Knorr Orchestra: 7:30-10:30 p.m. Aug. 3, $8.

O Happy Together tour featuring Flo & Eddie of the Turtles, the Association, the Grass Roots, the Buckinghams, and Mark Lindsay from Paul Revere & the Raiders: 7:30 p.m.

Aug. 5, $21.50-$37.50.

O ’50s and ’60s dance party featuring Eddie & the Edsels: Aug. 6, $10.

Live entertainment after 9:30 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays. Holiday Inn French Quarter, 10630 Fremont Pike, Perrysburg.

(419) 874-3111 or www.hifq.com.

O Double Dare: Aug. 5-6.

O Billy Dean and Dawn: Aug. 12-13.

Cheers Sports Eatery

ICE Restaurant & Bar

This family-friendly eatery dishes up live performances … and Chicago-style pizza. 7131 Orchard Centre Dr., Holland. (419) 491-0990.

O Mark Mikel Band, Chris Shutters, 9 p.m. Aug. 6.

This local, family-owned enterprise offers food, drinks and music in a sleek atmosphere. 405 Madison Ave. (419) 2463339 or icerestaurantandbar.com.

O Jesse Coleman: 6 p.m. Aug. 4.

O Joe Woods: 7 p.m. Aug. 5.

O Calen Savidge: 7 p.m. Aug. 6.

O Alexander Zonjic: 6 and 9 p.m. Aug. 11, $20.

Bretz Bar 2012 Adams St. (419) 243-1900.

O Deja Dellataro and Felaciana Thunderpussy: Thursdays-Saturdays.

Bronze Boar Be sure to check out this Warehouse District tavern’s namesake, overhead near the entrance. 20 S. Huron St. (419) 244-2627 or www.bronzeboar.com.

O Open mic night with Chris Knopp: Mondays.

O Luke James: Tuesdays.

O Jerod: Wednesdays and Thursdays.

O Beg to Differ: Aug. 5.

O Noisy Neighbors: Aug. 6.

O Bush League: Aug. 12.

Caesars Windsor Consider hopping the Detroit River for this casino’s entertainment offerings. Ticket prices, in Canadian dollars, are for the cheapest seats; attendees must be 19 or older. Caesars Windsor Colosseum, 377 Riverside Dr. East, Windsor, Ontario. (800) 991-7777 or www.caesarswindsor.com.

O Drake: 8 p.m. Aug. 4, $85.

O Jeff Dunham: 9 p.m. Aug. 5, $55.

O Human Nature: 9 p.m. Aug. 6, $25.

O The Fab Four: The Ultimate Tribute. 3 and 8 p.m.

Aug. 10, $15.

Ho mema de So ups Panini Grille d Sandwiches

7723 Airport Highway • Holland 419.491.0098

Cheetah’s Den A different band performs each week. 702 E. Broadway St. (419) 754-1903.

O DJ Lamont: Tuesdays.

O Devious: Thursdays (also open mic night)-Saturdays.

Dégagé Jazz Café Signature drinks, such as pumpkin martinis, plus live local jazz performers. 301 River Road, Maumee. $5 weekends for cafe seating. (419) 794-8205 or www. degagejazzcafe.com.

O Gene Parker & Friends: 7-10 p.m. Aug. 3 and 10.

O Gene Parker & Dan Faehnle: 7:30-11:30 p.m. Aug. 5-6.

O Clifford Murphy: Aug. 12-13.

The Distillery Karaoke is offered Tuesdays, but paid entertainers rock out Wednesdays-Saturdays. 4311 Heatherdowns Blvd. (419) 382-1444 or www.thedistilleryonline.com.

O Gregg Aranda: Tuesdays.

O Kyle White: Aug. 3.

O The Bridges: Aug. 4-6.

O Dave Carpenter: Aug. 10.

O Calen Savidge: Aug. 11.

DUE TO A MINOR FIRE DAMAGE OUR WATERVILLE LOCATION WILL BE TEMPORARILY CLOSED WE WILL BE MORE THAN HAPPY TO SERVE YOUR FAVORITE MENU ITEMS AT OUR HOLLAND LOCATION ON AIRPORT HWY. FOLLOW US ON FOR UPDATES

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Glass City Café This small venue offers musical accompaniment for its Saturday brunches. 10:30 a.m., 1107 Jackson St. (419) 2414519 or www.glasscitycafe.com.

O Mark Hutchins: Aug. 6.

JJ’s Pub Live music is on Saturday’s menu; the genre varies, along with the cover charge. Karaoke is on tap 9:30 p.m. Thursdays, and a DJ starts spinning at 9 p.m.

Fridays. 26611 N. Dixie Hwy., Perrysburg. (419) 8749058 or jjsperrysburg.com.

O John Barile and Bobby May: 8 p.m. Aug. 9.

Kerrytown Concert House This venue focuses on classical, jazz and opera artists and music. 415 N. Fourth Ave., Ann Arbor. $5-$30, unless noted. (734) 769-2999 or www.kerrytown concerthouse.com.

O Brass Tacks’ “Five Hamlets”: 8 p.m. Aug. 4-6.

O Fred Knapp Trio, Ben Jansson: 8 p.m. Aug. 9.

O New West Guitar Group: 8 p.m. Aug. 12.

Mainstreet Bar and Grill Ronn Daniels performs weekly at this pub. 8-11 p.m.

Thursdays, 141 Main St. (419) 697-6297 or www.toledomainstreet.com.

LI(RVAIE MUSIC! N OR SHINE)

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TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM / AUGUST 3, 2011 n 15

Manhattan’s

(419) 244-7722 or www.pizzapapalis.com.

Wesley’s Bar & Grill

Music at the Market

This “slice of the Big Apple” in the Glass City provides entertainment most weekends. 1516 Adams St. (419) 243-6675 or www.manhattanstoledo.com.

O Open mic hosted by Meaghan Roberts and Jason Quick: Monday nights.

O Jam session hosted by Tom Turner & Slow Burn: Tuesday nights.

O Quick Trio: 6 p.m. Aug. 4.

O Al Smith & the Blues All Stars: Aug. 5.

O Post Modern Blues Band: Aug. 6.

O Meaghan Roberts: Aug. 10.

O Meaghan Roberts: Aug. 5-6.

O Area 51: Aug. 12.

A huge variety of beers helps wash down the entertainment.

1201 Adams St. (419) 255-3333 or wesleysbar.com.

O DJs Folk, Mattimoe and Perrine: Fridays.

O Todd Perrine and guests: Aug. 6.

Weekly concerts will pierce the summer heat. 7 p.m. Thursdays, Commodore Park, Louisiana and Indiana avenues.

(419) 873-2787 or www.perrysburgarts.org.

O Extra Stout: Aug. 4.

O Quartet Bernadette: Aug. 11.

Mickey Finn’s A variety of genres to wash your drinks down with. Open mic nights, 9 p.m. Wednesdays, no cover; $5-$7 cover other nights. 602 Lagrange St. (419) 246-3466 or www.mickeyfinnspub.com.

O Rock the Stage, featuring local bands: 9 p.m. Thursdays, free.

O Enter the Haggis: 8 p.m. Aug. 3.

O Hardcore Beach Party, Stay, Tight Grip, Dead & Gone: 8:30 p.m. Aug. 6.

O Dope Body, Hume, Go LAB: 8:30 p.m. Aug. 7.

Mutz @ The Oliver House

Robinwood Concert House A home for the avant garde and untraditional, this Old West End venue hosts artists on the experimental end of the musical rainbow. 9 p.m., 2564 Robinwood Ave. $5 donation, unless noted. www.toledobellows.wordpress.com.

O Kristin Miltner, Matt Davignon, Five Dollar Ferrari: Aug. 13.

Spicy Tuna This sushi bar offers occasional entertainment to accompany the fishy dishes. 7130 Airport Hwy. (419) 720-9333 or spicytunasushi.com.

O DJ Jimmy James: 10 p.m. Fridays.

O Karaoke: 10 p.m. Saturdays.

O Kyle White: 7-11 p.m. Aug. 3.

Stella’s Nouveau cuisine gets a helping of music Thursdays through Saturdays. 104 Louisiana Ave., Perrysburg. (419) 873-8360 or www.stellasrestaurantandbar.com.

O C.J. and Company: Aug. 5-6, 12-13.

This pub offers handcrafted brews … and live entertainment. 27 Broadway St. (419) 243-1302 or www. oh-maumeebaybrewingco.com.

O Open mic hosted by Breaking Ground: 10 p.m.

Wednesdays.

O Karaoke: 10 p.m. Thursdays.

O DJs Omar Garcia and Todd Perrine: Saturdays.

O Gene Parker Trio: 7-10 p.m. Tuesdays.

O The Eight-Fifteens: 10 p.m. Aug. 5.

Table Forty4

One2 Lounge at Treo

The Village Idiot

Live music starts at 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. 5703 Main St., Sylvania. (419) 882-2266 or treosylvania.com.

O Might Have Ben: Aug. 5.

O Tim Tiderman: Aug. 6.

Tunes combined with pizza and booze, some would say it’s a perfect combination. 309 Conant St., Maumee. (419) 8937281, (419) 740-2395 or www.villageidiotmaumee.com.

O Frankie May, Ben Barefoot and Friends, every Monday O Bob Rex: Sunday afternoons.

O The Eight-Fifteens: Sunday evenings.

O Mark Mikel Band: Tuesdays.

O Bobby Bare Jr. & Carey Kotsionis: Aug. 3.

O Flowtrio: Aug. 4.

O Mark Mikel: Aug. 5 and 12.

O Reese Daily Band: Aug. 5.

O Kentucky Chrome: Aug. 6.

O Old West End Productions: Aug. 10.

Ottawa Tavern Casual meals with weekend entertainment. 1815 Adams St. (419) 725-5483 or www.otavern.com.

O Christopher Bell: 10 p.m. Aug. 5.

O Henchfest: 10 p.m. Aug. 6.

Party at the Park The track hosts concerts before the evening’s harness races. 5 p.m. Saturdays, Raceway Park, 5700 Telegraph Rd. $2. (419) 476-7751 or www.racewayparktoledo.com.

O MAS FiNA: Aug. 6.

Pizza Papalis Get slices with a topping of entertainment. 519 Monroe St.

Wino Wednesday s

Patio Now Open!

All Day Bar Specials Bar Top Only.

4610 Monroe St. (419) 725-0044 Bobby May, Jon Barile and Friends; every Friday 5 to 8 p.m.

Tequila Sheila’s A corner bar-type hangout with DJ-provided tunes on Saturday nights. 702 Monroe St. (419) 241-1118.

O Open mic with Jason Kelley: 9 p.m. Thursdays.

O Hip-hop night: 9 p.m. Fridays.

Webber’s Waterfront Restaurant This Point Place eatery hosts weekly entertainment on its patio with a river view. 6339 Edgewater Dr. (734) 723-7411 or www.webbersrestaurant.samsbiz.com.

O Johnny Rodriguez: Aug. 7.

Woodchucks The place to go for an eclectic mix of people and music. 224 S. Erie St. (419) 241-3045.

O Karaoke: Wednesdays.

O The Jukebox Romantics, Bathhouse Betty, Texas Pete & the Revolutions: 9 p.m. Aug. 7, $5.

Jazz in the Garden

Yeeha’s

Take in some swing and smooth tunes among the swaying flowers. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Thursdays, July 7-Sept. 8, Toledo Botanical Garden, 5403 Elmer Dr. $6-$8; $48-$64 for season pass. (419) 536-5566 or toledogarden.org.

O 6th Edition: Aug. 4.

O Cake Walkin’ Jass Band: Aug. 11.

Country and rock with a little “Coyote Ugly” style. 3150 Navarre Ave., Oregon. (419) 691-8880 or www.yeehas.com.

Club Friday

This Italian restaurant hosts magician Andrew Martin on Sunday nights. The restaurant is open 4-9 p.m. Sundays, The Docks, 20 Main St. (419) 697-7138, (888) 456-3463 or www.ziasrestaurant.com.

Some of the city’s most talented performers entertain museum-goers during TMA’s It’s Friday events. 6:30-9:30 p.m., Cloister, 2445 Monroe St. (419) 255-8000 or toledomuseum.org.

O Dumb Easies: Aug. 5.

O It’s Essential: Aug. 12.

Toledo Zoo Amphitheater concerts

Swingmania

Performers take the stage near Cheetah Valley. 2700 Broadway St. (419) 474-1333 or ticketmaster.com.

O Bob Dylan: 7:30 p.m. Aug. 3, $59.50-$79.50.

With its focus on swing music, Jeff McDonald’s group of musicians provides a peek into another era, with music from bandleaders such as Benny Goodman, Glenn Miller, the Dorseys and more. With combos from trio to full orchestra, the performers provide music for all occasions. (419) 7080265, (419) 874-0290 or www.swingmania.org.

O Swing Revival Party: 8 p.m. Thursdays, South Briar Restaurant, 5147 S. Main St., Sylvania. (419) 517-1111 or (419) 708-0265.

O Big-Band All Stars: Dancing is encouraged. 8-10:30 p.m.

Tuesdays, Trotter’s Tavern, 5131 Heatherdowns Blvd. (419) 381-2079 or (419) 708-0265.

Zia’s

Lunch at Levis Square concert series Downtown Toledo Improvement District conspires to set lunch to music. Noon-1:30 p.m. Thursdays through Aug. 25, Levis Square, North St. Clair Street and Madison Avenue.

(419) 249-5494.

O Bobby May Trio: Aug. 4.

O Urban Jazz Collective: Aug. 11.

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4:30 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays and 1-4 p.m. weekends through Oct. 30 (closed holidays), Wood County Historical Center & Museum, 13360 County Home Road, Bowling Green. $1-$4.

(419) 352-0967 or www.woodcountyhistory.org.

O From Bland ... to Grand: This tea will include brunch and a tour of the herb garden. 10 a.m. Aug. 11, $3-$12.

Reservations advised.

A summer series that capitalizes on Olander Park’s lake views and natural accompaniment (geese and ducks are known to sing backup). 7 p.m.-dusk Aug. 3, Nederhouser Community Hall, Olander Park, 6930 Sylvania Ave., Sylvania. $3 parking for non-Sylvania School District residents (or park at nearby Tam-o-Shanter and walk in).

(419) 882-8313 or www.olanderpark.com.

Wood County Fair

Rock N Roar

Based at the Wood County Historical Center & Museum, this team calls Bowling Green’s Wintergarden Park, South Wintergarden Road, its home field. (419) 352-0967 or www. woodcountyhistory.org.

O Vs. Tippecanoe Canal Jumpers: 1 p.m. Aug. 7.

The zoo’s annual adults-only dance party will feature East River Drive, Johnny Retro and the Hitmen, and Moore’s Law, plus a DJ. 7 p.m.-midnight Aug. 5, Toledo Zoo, 2700 Broadway St. $25. Reservations: (419) 3855721, ext. 2091, or toledozoo.org.

Maumee River Yacht Club homecoming

Customize your stay 12200 Williams Rd. Perrysburg

The Toledo Swiss Singers will perform along the stately porch of the presidential center. 6:45-8 p.m. Aug. 3, Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center, Spiegel Grove, Hayes and Buckland avenues, Fremont. (419) 332-2081, (800) 998-7737 or www.rbhayes.org.

The public is welcome at this event, which will feature music and a sizzling grill. 2735 Broadway St. (419) 3823625 or www.maumeeriveryachtclub.com.

O The Homewreckers: Aug. 5.

O Johnny Rodriguez, Johnny Rocker: Aug. 6.

Swingin’ at the Zoo The Toledo Jazz Orchestra will fill in for this year’s absentee Music Under the Stars series with this free concert. 7 p.m.

Aug. 7, Toledo Zoo Amphitheatre, 2700 Broadway St. $25.

(419) 385-4040, or toledozoo.org.

Music by the River The Maumee Community Band will provide monthly music on the lawn of the Maumee library. Chairs and blankets are welcome. 7 p.m. Aug. 9, 501 River Road, Maumee. (419) 259-5360 or www.toledolibrary.org.

Northwest Ohio Rib-Off Yeah, the focus is the sticky, sweet, saucy, smoky, spicy — but hot bands never hurt. 4-11 p.m. Aug. 11-12, noon-11 p.m. Aug. 13 and noon-5 p.m. Aug. 14, Lucas County Fairgrounds , 1406 Key St., Maumee. (419) 724-6380.

O Hotel California (Eagles tribute): 7:30-10 p.m. Aug. 11, $3.

O Ted Nugent: Aug. 12, $7-$30.

O Clay Walker, Aston Shepherd, Katie Armiger: Aug. 13, $5-$20.

O World music day: Aug. 14, $3.

Noon Tunes: Wilson Lake and the Rock Bass

Nature and the Toledo Metroparks’ stately manor house provide the backdrops for this series of outdoor concerts.

Picnickers are welcome. Noon Aug. 12, Wildwood Preserve Metropark, gazebo on the manor house lawn, 5100 W. Central Ave. (419) 407-9700 or metroparkstoledo.com.

BG & MORE

BOWLING GREEN

Grumpy Dave’s Comedy Nights This venue offers weekly humor-fests (maybe to make up for the crankiness). Above the Easy Street Cafe, 104 S. Main St., Bowling Green. $3-$5, unless noted. www.grumpydavespub.com.

O Mark Poolos: 9 p.m. Aug. 9.

Wood County Historical Center & Museum

Check out this rural jewel’s exhibits and tour the buildings to see demonstrations using historic equipment. 9:30 a.m.-

Rides, animal pulls, demolition derbies (including one featuring that farm staple — the combine) and the popular catch-a-pig contest are highlights of this heartland festival. Gates open at 8 a.m. through Aug. 8, 1300 W. Poe Road, Bowling Green. $6.

(419) 352-0441 or www.sent-trib.com/fair.

Infirmary Inmates Vintage Baseball

Predators of the Air Visitors can learn about dragonflies and meet some local species. 7-8 p.m. Aug. 4, Otsego Park overlook, 20000 W. River Road, Bowling Green. (419) 661-1697 or wcparks.org.

“Who’s Dying to Be a Millionaire” Area children will stage this production about a killer game show. 7:30 p.m. Aug. 5-6 and 2 p.m. Aug. 7, Pemberville Opera House lawn, 115 Main St., Pemberville. $5-$8. (419) 287-3274, (877) 287-4848 or www.pembervilleoperahouse.org.

FoxSnake and other reptiles The intrepid can get a peek at a fox snake up close and search for native reptiles along the trail. 10-11 a.m. Aug. 6, Cedar Creeks Preserve, 4526 Walbridge Road, Northwood.

(419) 661-1697 or wcparks.org.

Chris Young & Steel Magnolia These country acts — Young is known for his single “Gettin’ You Home”; Steel Magnolia got its start on the CMT show “Can You Duet?” — will perform at the Wood County Fair.

8:30 p.m. Aug. 6, 1300 W. Poe Road, Bowling Green. $20$25. (419) 352-0441 or www.sent-trib.com/fair.

Olde Fashioned Ice Cream Social Cool treats on a hot summer day will precede the Children’s Theater Workshop matinee of “Who’s Dying to Be a Millionaire.” 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Aug. 7, Pemberville Opera House lawn, 115 Main St., Pemberville. (419) 287-3274, (877) 287-4848 or www.pembervilleoperahouse.org.

Sensory Garden Exploration Visitors will see, touch, taste, hear and smell their way through this plot. 10-11 a.m. Aug. 10, W.W. Knight Nature Center lookout, 29530 White Road, Perrysburg. Register: (419) 661-1697 or reservations. woodcountyparkdistrict.org.

Wildflower Wednesdays Native plants color our world, inviting butterflies (and us) to explore fields and prairies for blooms. 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Aug. 10, Otsego Park, 20000 W. River Road, Bowling Green. Register: (419) 661-1697 or reservations. woodcountyparkdistrict.org.

Feeding Time A naturalist will take a red-eared slider turtle out of its cage, feed it, discuss its life in the wild and demonstrate to visitors how to handle it. 10:30-11:45 a.m.

Aug. 11, W.W. Knight Nature Center lookout, 29530 White Road, Perrysburg. Register: (419) 661-1697 or reservations.woodcountyparkdistrict.org. O

“There are no ideas in the South, just barbecue.” — Pat Conroy

TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM / AUGUST 3, 2011 n 17

Literary ‘League’ gets trippy new sequel

By Jim Beard Toledo Free Press Star Staff Writer star@toledofreepress.com

You might have thought it impossible for writer Alan Moore to cram any more literary and pop culture references into his infamous “League of Extraordinary Gentlemen” comic series; his newest volume, “Century: 1969,” will prove you wrong. Literally crawling with late 1960s nods, cameos, walkons and full-blown appearances, the comic “takes you down” on an acid trip of debauchery, devilment and deep, deep British slang.

“Who would have ever guessed that a comic which started off as a simple and novel idea would slowly blossom into a fascinating character study of the effects of time and history on an immortal mind, as well as a ripsnorting commentary of the previous century through the eyes of its pop culture?” asked Monarch Card and Comics’ Ed Katschke. “‘Century’ focuses on three different time periods — 1910, 1969 and 2009.

The second chapter of this mammoth undertaking continues the story started in the first chapter, but from nearly 60 years later. Mina Murray, Alan Quartermain, and the always mysterious Orlando have entered the swinging ’60s and are hot on the tail of an evil magician who just may be working toward the birth of a new antichrist and the end

of the world. Their adventure takes us through the — literally — high times of ’60s Britain, complete with all of the obvious and buried pop culture references which make this such a fun read, but beneath the surface we are seeing the gradual disintegration of the Victorian society which made imperialistic Britain one of the largest and most powerful nations in the world.

“Moore’s cultural observations don’t stop with background references, but also lie in the terrible toll that immortality has begun to take on Mina Murray, who is at once gripped by a desire to stay true to the woman she was, but terribly afraid of becoming irrelevant in the face of changing times.

Her struggle to balance her mortal existence with her immortal one is fascinating and made more so by her desperate struggle to save the world while dealing with it.”

Katschke’s also quick to observe that “League” isn’t for all readers; the book’s a virtual lexicon of nudity, sex, gutter language and subversive ideas — but it wouldn’t be the brainchild of Alan Moore without that. The writer’s noholds-barred approach to the medium delivers a product unlike anything else on the stands, and “Century: 1969” is absolutely no exception. O

ParkSmart multi-level parking garages are conveniently located close to the Huntington Center, SeaGate Convention Centre, Fifth Third Field, Imagination Station, Valentine Theatre, Crowne Plaza Hotel and Promenade Park on the Maumee River. When you plan your next visit to downtown Toledo check out our website: www.parksmart.org Downtown Toledo Parking Authority • 227 North St. Clair Street • Toledo, Ohio 43604 • 419-242-7515

18 n AUGUST 3, 2011 / TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM

”The pig is ‘an encyclopedic animal, a meal on legs’.” — Grimod de La Reynière

BENEFITTING “THE OLD NEWSBOYS”

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The stage as tool Local venues range from sublime to ridiculous.

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Fri. - Sat. 11-12 a.m.

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Closed Sundays & Holidays

ARTURO’S

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Closed Holidays

Casual Dining • ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED

ot all venues are created equal. Toledo offers a variety from the good, the bad and the ugly. Local musical settings range from art galleries to coffee shops, beer galleries to amphitheaters. However, if you are in a local band, you can cross off playing the latter, unless you win The Blade’s Battle of the Bands (who are those people?), leaving the rest of us with the smaller, local places.

For original bands, I recSarah ommend seeking out a room with a stage and a sound system. A show is much enhanced by these technological advancements, yet these simple improvements seem to elude many of the venues on the local circuit.

The Village Idiot and The Ottawa Tavern are bars that have recently updated their spaces. Unlike many bar venues,

they have taken steps toward being legit clubs, providing a sound system, stage and lighting. These bars benefit from having good locations and large crowds (that seem to live there). Performing bands are sure to get recognition and applause for playing new and original material. The main challenges to the audience and musicians — both spaces get loud and crowded after midnight and because of this bands are expected to play, umm, loud.

A stage is more than a symbol — it’s a working tool that helps a performer more efficiently rock.

Without one, people are less likely to treat the evening like a show, and more likely to write off a band as “background music” (my least favorite term ever to be deemed a genre.) n COHEN CONTINUES ON 19

Cohen

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“Grilling is actually the easiest technique in cooking,” — Bobby Flay n COHEN CONTINUED FROM 18 Manhattan’s, which offers live music seven days a week, does not have a stage or any sound system.

For a venue that has such good taste in music, and treats its performers quite well in terms of pay and respect, it is really time to take the next step by installing some hanging speakers and a small raised stage. My real vision for Manhattan’s would be to move select shows to the party room. It would be the perfect space to have a show based on listening and respect. Believe me, there are so many people who would love to come out for music but stay in because of the lack of etiquette in the bar scene.

I get chills at the thought of playing to a captive room full of attentive patrons.

Ahh, the elusive captive audience; a dream to most, a reality to few. Once, in a far away land called Lansing, I went to a show where 100 people sat in rows of folding chairs facing a small stage surrounded by artwork. They paid a small cover and sat to listen to the stories set to music. It was all very Zen; the crowd only wanted to be part of the experience. There were bars to the left and the right and anyone was free to leave at anytime. It was like being at a play. Robinwood Concert House is a newer venue that takes listening very seriously. It should be commended and visited by many. Specializing in avante garde and touring groups, it remains one of the most unique performance spaces in the are. Bozarts Fine Art and Music Gallery also features a welcoming creative space where acts local or otherwise perform in front of local hanging artwork. No pressure to be a cover band here, either. The sacrifice is neither spot can offer the cold hard cash a bar can. It’s

Catch 22 of 222 for musicians in Toledo. Quality/ Quantity = Sacrifice.

What happened to paying a cover? Toledo has taken the recession hard and now makes a funny face at the mention of paying a cover for music. Because of this, it has become harder for local bands to get people to come to venues like Mickey Finn’s or Frankie’s. Both provide excellent sound systems and great stages — not to mention real sound men, a breed of men that has migrated north. Maybe for those who come to shows for the social aspect it doesn’t matter, but those there specifically for the music struggle to hear and participate.

So what can we do to better the music scene?

Venues, help your bands and provide a stage or sound system that works with your room. It will help with quality and constancy. Bands, keep playing new music so people stop treating us like a call and request radio show. Most importantly, if we as a people had a bit more self-control when out in public and paid a bit more respect to the performers, we could see a change in quality almost immediately. A few days ago, I heard a guitarist named Tim Oehlers shout, “Please be quiet so we can hear the music!” while struggling to hear The Staving Chain and its acoustic instrumentation. I shook his hand. Well played, sir.

P.S. It was just reported that “Wooly Bully” was heard being played at the Toledo Art Museum ... now that’s high art! O Sarah Cohen is a Toledo native and an original musician of The Antivillains who manages Happy Badger Cafe in Bowling Green. Email her at star@ toledofreepress.com.

TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM / AUGUST 3 2011 n 19

Memorial Golf Tournament Monday, August 29, 2011

Belmont Country Club 29601 Bates Road Perrysburg, Ohio

Presented by

Get Over It — Get On With It! The Nate Brahier 797 Foundation will continue to celebrate our friend Nate with scholarships to young people with his passion and drive to better themselves!

Sponsorship & Team Registration Form online at www.theblarneyirishpub.com

ULTIMATE FAN PLAN Season ticket* only

$59

Free FOOD $24 in concession vouchers Free UT GEAR $20 Rocket Shop gift card Free PARKING $30 season pass *See utrockets.com for details on the Ultimate Fan Plan and ticket availability.

See YOU at the GAME!

facebook.com/UTRockets

UTRocketsDotCom

419.530.GOLD (4653)

utrockets.com

20 n AUGUST 3, 2011 / TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM

“Cooking in the fireplace is the closest thing to grilling over charcoal or wood outdoors.” — Steven Raichlen

Nintendo 3DS lowers price, offers games

By Michael Siebenaler Toledo Free Press Star Staff Writer star@toledofreepress.com

Supply KidS With A Future We are collecting backpacks and school supplies to be given to kindergartenage students who might not be able to afford to purchase their needed supplies.

SupplieS needed • Backpack • Crayons • Markers • Elmer’s 4 oz. bottle of glue • #2 yellow pencils

For more information, please contact the Alumni Association at (567) 661-7876 or alumni@owens.edu

• Pink erasers

• Tissues

• School boxes

• Freezer bags with zipper

• Pocket folders

• Diaper wipes

• Marbled covered composition books

Please make donations by August 18 at

Before school starts this year, kids and adult s will notice that starting Aug. 12, the Nintendo 3DS will drop from $250 to $170. But that is not even the real news. Users who already own the 3DS will receive 20 free downloadable games from the Nintendo eShop. On Sept. 1, current 3DS owners can choose 10 Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) virtual console games from a list including “Balloon Fight,” “Donkey Kong Jr.,” “The Legend of Zelda,” “Ice Climber” and “Super Mario Brothers.” Near the end of this year, current 3DS owners can choose 10 Game Boy Advance Virtual Console games including “Mario vs. Donkey Kong,” “Mario Kart: Super Circuit,” “Metroid Fusion,” “Super Mario Advance 3,” “WarioWare, Inc.” and “Yoshi’s Island.”

This “3DS Ambassador program” looks to increase system sales, so gamers gobble up more games. Besides “Asphalt 3D,” “Madden NFL Football,” “Rayman 3D” and “Ridge Racer 3D,” the shortage of must-have games has been relatively low, though recent releases like “The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D” and “Star Fox 64 3D” should increase interest. Upcoming releases like “Mario Kart 3DS,” “Paper Mario 3DS” and “Super Mario 3DS” could change that outlook as well. In the meantime, golfing gamers and casual players can enjoy the latest 3DS downloadable game available now in Nintendo eShop.

‘Let’s Golf 3D’ (Gameloft)

The sharp graphics, touch screen options and easy-to-read icons make this golfing game easy to pick up and play while the challenging mechanics, optional ball spin and putting elements provide high-level challenges. Some noticeable glitches diminish the game a bit though game developers usually offset these weaknesses with positive elements. For example, a camera option is noticeably missing here especially because the ball spin feature does not always match the camera view, so players cannot usually see where the ball is going and make the necessary adjustments. Players use the familiar colored meter for each swing — the top part for power and second for accuracy. A white line marks the ideal swing spot. Hit that spot on regular swings, but go over it a little bit on putts. “Tee time” is even easier with text indicators (fairway, green, rough, etc.) showing where the ball will land. The putting meter only requires power and uses auto-putts for short distances. On short putts, the meter appears too quickly, so players have to react immediately. At least the meter mechanics constantly repeat so players do not hit it the first time.

Unlockable items, endless strategies, bonus challenges and 108 different holes ensure a high replay value. The two-player mode is a nice option though players must pass the system back and forth to play. This highly recommended game is a must-have for Nintendo 3DS users (***1/2, available exclusively on Nintendo eShop for $6.99 plus tax, rated E). O

TOLEDO HIBERNIAN IRISH FESTIVAL THERE WILL BE DANCING & DRINKING ON THE STREET FESTIVAL HOURS:

Friday 7 – midnight Saturday 4 – midnight $5 admission at 7 p.m.

CHILDREN PLAY TIME: SATURDAY 4 - 6 Clowns and Games: Bring the kids!

IRISH DANCERS Ardan Academy of Irish Dance Molly’s Irish Dancers

IRISH MUSIC Brigid’s Cross (BC2) Paul & Peggy y Extra Stout Roger Drawdy & The Firestarters s The Bloody Tinth

AUG. 12 & 13 • DOWNTOWN TOLEDO HURON STREET BETWEEN THE BLARNEY & PIZZA PAPALIS

“You can grill on anything ... I saw people grilling on hubcaps.” — Steven Raichlen

TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM / AUGUST 3 2011 n 21

Wednesday’s Auto

These Dealers Have What You’re Looking For!!

CARS • TRUCKS • VANS • SUVs • SPECIAL FINANCING

We will Save You Money! Good Quality Pre-Owned Vehicles

2800 N. Telegraph Rd. 734-243-6000

2010 FORD TAURUS SEL

HEATED LEATHER – NEW BODY STYLE! – STK# 118617A – WAS $25,995 .............. NOW $23,995*

2010 FORD FUSION SE

30 MPG! – FACTORY WARRANTY! - 3 TO CHOOSE FROM! – WAS $19,995 ............... NOW $18,995*

2010 CHEV MALIBU LT

2.4 GAS SAVER – CHROME WHEELS – STK# P4740 – WAS $18,995 ........................ NOW $17,995*

2009 LINCOLN MKZ

FWD – 2 TO CHOOSE FROM – AFFORDABLE LUXERY! – WAS $24,995..................... NOW $23,995*

2007 LINCOLN TOWNCAR SIGNATURE LIMITED

ONLY 25,000 MILES! – STK# P4768 – WAS $23,995 ................................................. NOW $22,995*

2006 FORD FUSION SE

3.0 V6 – ONLY 12,000 MILES!! – VERY NICE! - WAS $14,995..................................... NOW $13,495*

2006 LINCOLN ZEPHYR

FWD – LOW MILES! – CLEAN! – STK# 115115A – WAS $17,995 ............................. NOW $15,995*

2005 FORD FREESTAR SEL

FAMILY READY! – LOW MILES – STK# P4661 – WAS $11,995 .................................. NOW $10,995*

2005 CHRYSLER 300 LIMITED

HEATED LEATHER! – CHROME WHEELS – STK# 112115A – WAS $14,995 .............. NOW $13,995*

2003 FORD EXCURSION XLT

2WD – 6.0 DIESEL – LOW MILES! – STK# 126060A – WAS $15,995 ....................... NOW $14,995* *Plus Tax, Title and License

Friendly Ford Prices have beenr slashed fo

“Inventory Reduction Sale!”

Drive Around Thee Corner To Monroee For Foor

“Rock Bottom Blow-Out Prices!”

Come see the Friendly Difference! We are Large Enough to Deal and Small Enough to Care.

Family Owned and Operated for Over 27 Years!

FFRANKLIN RANKLIN PPARK ARK VALUE LEADERS! Ø DOWN DELIVERS!

’00 PONTIAC SUNFIRE “MOON”...... $2,999 ’01 DODGE INTREPID EQUIPPED..... $2,999 ’97 BUICK LESABRE “CLEAN” .......... $2,999 BAD CREDIT, NO CREDIT

NO PROBLEM

’00 CHEVY BLAZER EQUIPPED.......... $3,385 ’08 CHEVY IMPALA 58K MILES........ $13,995 ’11 FORD FOCUS ............................$17,865 ’08 MOUNTAINEER “NICE!”............ $18,985

CALL NOW!!

419-882-7171 FRANKLIN PARK USED

Credit Problems? Need a New Car?

1011 S. Monroe St.

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734-243-6900

NOW TRY THE BEST!

2010 FORD FUSION SE

REPOSSESSIONS, BANKRUPTCIES, FORECLOSURES

2.5 4cyl – 30 MPG! – FACTORY WARRANTY – STK# P4678 – WAS $19,995.................. NOW $17,995*

2009 FORD FOCUS SE

4dr - 35 MPG! – 2 TO CHOOSE FROM! – WAS $14,995......................................................NOW $13,995*

2008 MERCURY SABLE

4dr SEDAN – LEATHER - NICE CAR! - STK# 126009A – WAS $15,995..............................NOW $13,995*

2007 CHEV UPLANDER LT

We Can get you APPROVED! 2010 CLEARANCE SALE!

DVD – QUAD BUCKETS – 43,000 MILES – STK# P4666 – WAS $16,995........................ NOW $14,995*

2010 KIA RIO

2006 FORD FREESTYLE SE

2010 KIA FORTE

AWD – ROOM FOR 7 PASSENGERS – STK# 117053A – WAS $9,995 ..................................NOW $8,995*

2005 FORD EXPLORER XLT

4x4 – V6 – 3rd ROW SEAT – STK# 116034A – WAS $9,995 ................................................NOW $7,995*

2005 PONTIAC MONTANA SV6

AMILY READY! – DVD – STK# 113327A – WAS $9,495 ...........................................................NOW 7,995*

2004 MERCURY SABLE GS

WAGON – CLEAN!! - 55,000 MILES – STK# P4651 – WAS $10,995 ....................................NOW $8,995*

2004 FORD EXPEDITION XLT

$12,595 BK9491 ................................................................... $13,595 2010 MITSUBISHI GALANT BK9483 ................................................................... $13,995 2010 DODGE CALIBER BK9492 ................................................................... $15,395 2010 DODGE CHARGER RK9525 ................................................................... $16,995 PK9497 ...................................................................

LOW WEEKLY, BI-WEEKLY AND MONTHLY PAYMENTS AVAILABLE!

4x4 – 7 PASSENGERS – GREAT PRICE! – STK# P4683 – WAS $13,995 ........................... NOW $12,495*

2004 CHEV 1500 SILVERADO LS

EXT/CAB – 4x4 – MATCHING CAP – STK# 118824A – WAS $12,995 ............................. NOW $11,995* *Plus Tax, Title and License

USED CAR CENTER 6222 W. Central Ave., Toledo • 419-843-7272

21st Annual

BUY ONE CAR, GET ONE FREE SALE Tired f o getting BURNED by High Rates?

Receive a FREE $10 Gas Card with Insurance Quote.*

CALL OR SEE Brandon Ochmanek and Angie Worley Agents/Owners info@compass insurancetoledo.com

3007 Tremainsville, Toledo OH

419-885-7283 * Valid with new client only. By appointment only. ** Expires 08/30/2011. One per household.

at JOE’S AUTOS

FRIDAY, SATURDAY & SUNDAY

AUGUST 5th, 6th & 7th ABSOLUTLY NO GIMMICKS:

Buy a car, and YOU get to choose a 2nd car

ABSOLUTELY FREE

Over 50 cars to choose from for under 10 thousand! Free Food, live music and giveaways all weekend long.

3538 N. HOLLAND SYLVANIA RD. Log onto www.joescarsales.com for a complete inventory listing.

419-841-3620

2.9% FINANCING AVAILABLE ON ALL CERTIFIED TOYOTAS! *

TOYOTA/SCION *Sale ends 7/31/11, 2.9% Financing up to 60 mos. With approved credit, On all certified pre-owned vehicles. See dealer for details. Offer excludes: Tax, Tag, Title and $250 Doc Fees. Manufactures Program subject to change without notice.

2001 CHRYS PT CRUISER LIMITED Silver.......................................Was $5,688 2003 VOLKSWAGEN NEW BEETLE GLS White ................................Was $7,595 2004 PONTIAC GRAND AM SE Silver ..............................................Was $9,450 2005 TOYOTA SOLARA Well-Equipped, Light Blue ..........................Was $11,525 2004 TOYOTA SIENNA LE Auto, Air, Silver ......................................Was $13,995 2004 HONDA CIVIC EX Well-Equipped, Blue ...................................Was $11,755 1996 NISSAN 300ZX TURBO Loaded, Red .....................................Was $12,995 2009 TOYOTA COROLLA LE Well-Equipped, Silver .........................Was $16,925 2010 CHEVY IMPALA LT Loaded, Black Beauty ..............................Was $18,900 2009 TOYOTA CAMRY XLE Loaded, Silver......................................Was $23,200

Now $4,995 Now $6,995 Now $8,995 Now $10,988 Now $10,995 Now $11,390 Now $12,550 Now $15,895 Now $17,740 Now $21,550

6123 W. Central Ave. • 419-841-6681 •

MANAGER’S SPECIAL

2010 CHEVY MALIBU LT

Loaded, Leather Silver ................Was $19,200 Now $17,985

www.jimwhitetoyota.com www.jimwhitescion.com

22 n AUGUST 3, 2011 / TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM

Listen to “Jedi of Pop Culture” Jeff McGinnis Tuesday mornings on 92.5 KISS FM.

You suck at Craigslist I

A publication of Toledo Free Press, LLC, Vol. 2, No. 31 Established 2010.

Thomas F. Pounds, President/Publisher tpounds@toledofreepress.com Michael S. Miller, Editor in Chief mmiller@toledofreepress.com EDITORIAL

Mary Ann Stearns, Design Editor mastearns@toledofreepress.com James A. Molnar, Lead Designer jmolnar@toledofreepress.com Brandi Barhite, Associate Editor bbarhite@toledofreepress.com Sarah Ottney, Special Sections Editor sottney@toledofreepress.com Chris Schmidbauer, Sports Editor cschmidbauer@toledofreepress.com Jason Mack, Web Editor star@toledofreepress.com ADMINISTRATION

Pam Burson, Business Manager pburson@toledofreepress.com CONTRIBUTORS star@toledofreepress.com Jim Beard • Amy Campbell • Zach Davis John Dorsey • Matt Feher • Jerry Gray Dustin Hostetler • Stacy Jurich Vicki L. Kroll • lilD • Martini • Jason Mack Jeff McGinnis • Whitney Meschke Kathryn Milstein • Rachel Richardson Patrick Timmis Julie Webster • Don Zellers

Chris Kozak, Staff Writer Emeritus Lisa Renee Ward, Staff Writer Emeritus Darcy Irons, Brigitta Burks, Proofreaders ADVERTISING SALES

Renee Bergmooser, Sales Manager rbergmooser@toledofreepress.com Casey Fischer cfischer@toledofreepress.com Matt Mackowiak mmackowiak@toledofreepress.com Chick Reid creid@toledofreepress.com DISTRIBUTION

Charles Campos (419) 241-1700, Ext. 227 ccampos@toledofreepress.com

Toledo Free Press Star is published every Wednesday by Toledo Free Press, LLC, 605 Monroe St., Toledo, OH 43604 • (419) 241-1700 Fax: (419) 241-8828 www.toledofreepress.com. Subscription rate: $100 /year.

Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content in any manner without permission is strictly prohibited. Copyright 2011 with all rights reserved.

Publication of ads does not imply endorsement of goods or services.

n the mid-1990s, Craig Newmark began the experimental emaillist-then-webpage known as Craigslist in the San Francisco Bay area. People would post job listings, classified ads, announcements and so forth. Among the first users of the site was a woman who is known to thousands of readers as “drmk,” one of the authors of the hilarious site “You Suck at JEFF Craigslist” (YSaC).

“Not to be the old grumpy man who insists on telling stories about walking to school uphill both ways barefoot over broken glass, but I really do remember when Craigslist was actually just a small group of people, and when you could trust everyone on it. I found jobs, roommates, subleasers, co-workers, friends and things to do on Craigslist,” drmk said in an interview with Toledo Free Press Star.

She continued to use the service throughout its explosive expansion, which would see it grow to include cities around the world. A few years ago, inspiration struck.

“I was spending more time than usual on Craigslist during the summer of 2008 because I was bargain hunting, and I kept seeing ads that made me laugh, cringe or both. I started posting them on my personal webpage, with snarky comments, just for my friends. They made the mistake of encouraging me, and here we are now,” drmk said.

Yes, here we are, three years and more than 1,000 posts later. The blog has become an exhaustive archive of entries on Craigslist from around the world, including everything from people selling nonsensical items, pictures that don’t go with the description, sub-literate and misguided text and so on. Each entry comes accompanied by snarky and hilarious commentary by drmk or her husband, Dan. “I wrote the posts for about the first year of the site; I would always run them by Dan, though, to see if he could think of anything, or could think of a clever title. Eventually he started writing posts, and we now share the post-writing responsibilities. When one of us is busy, the other will go on a spree and write a bunch in a row,” drmk said.

Ever since the early days of the site, drmk and Dan have maintained strict anonymity. The only clue to drmk’s “real” identity she will provide is that she works in academia. When she started YSaC, “drmk” was just a nonsense alias she had used for all her online writing.

“When I kept writing the site, I was glad I had started it anonymously because I realized that if my colleagues and supervisors knew what I was doing, they would ask me why I was wasting my time doing this and not writing more pro-

fessional articles. Academia is on a publish-or-perish model; if you don’t get articles published, you don’t get to keep your job ... so I didn’t want there to be any questions about whether I could have done more professional writing when it came time for my reviews,” drmk said.

Still, drmk and Dan are far from reticent in participating in the community which has formed around their work.

In addition to maintaining Facebook and Twitter pages devoted to the site, both are frequent participants in the “You Suck at Craigslist” forums, where their unique avatars have given rise to the curious nicknames “Llamanun” (drmk) and “Ostrimu.”

drmk credits YSaC visitors with much of the evolution the site has gone through.

“They’re the ones that pick up certain ideas and run with them, creating memes

mCGINNIS

POP GOES THE

CULTURE

Popular site celebrates 1,000 entries of bulletin board buffoonery. and recurring ‘in-jokes.’ I frequently say that I think that the reader comments are the best part of the site,” she said.

With such expansive and passionate readership, it’s unlikely that the authors behind YSaC will run out of material anytime soon.

They receive between 75 to 100 new submissions a week, drmk estimates, and post a new installment every weekday, with weekends spent spotlighting older entries from the expansive archives.

Such a wealth of material would seem to be naturally transferable to the printed page, though drmk said not to hold your breath for a YSaC book anytime soon.

“I was told by a couple of different publishers that I would need to dumb things down. Sorry, I like that we make references to the Maginot Line, modern art and physics in posts — sometimes in the same one! — and if we remain with a small core of readers who enjoy that as well, then we’re happy,” she stated.

And happiness is the key to the enterprise for its two authors.

“Dan and I have an agreement: we will keep writing the site for as long as it’s fun for us. If it stops being fun, we will stop writing the site.

It’s still fun,” drmk said. O Email Jeff at PopGoesJeff@toledofreepress.com.

BAD CREDIT? NO CREDIT? 1ST TIME BUYER? Come see

Mike Colbert today!

Get your car, truck or van now!

CHECK OUT OUR FRESH NEW INVENTORY

2004 & NEWER!

Choose from Northwest Ohio’s best used cars.

WE SPECIALIZE IN SUPER CLEAN, ALMOST NEW 2004 AND NEWER PRE-OWNED VEHICLES 5272 Monroe St. • Toledo, OH 419-882-7171 franklinparklm.com

“If ever the sun rises upon barbecue, its flavor vanishes like Cinderella’s silks.’ — William Allen White

TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM / AUGUST 3, 2011 n 23

Estate Jewelers Need Your Gold For Their Manufacturing Needs

WE PAY FOR DIAMONDS BIG AND SMALL WANTED:

STERLING SILVER ALL TIME PERIODS, ALL KINDS, ALL TYPES

Costume Jewelry (cont): Sterling Items • Plastic Jewelry Crystal Items • Cufflinks Tortoiseshell Items Rosaries and Etc. Gold-Filled Items • Bracelets Glass Bead • Mash Purses Rhinestone Items • Figural Pins • Garnet Jewelry Watches • Gold Items Plastic Box Purses

STERLING SILVER

PAYING TOP DOLLAR!!

“Estate Jewelers gave me $3200 for my jewelry, Other Buyers Offered only $600 Thank you Estate Jewelers!”

– Mrs. Robinson

• FREE ESTIMATES • FREE TESTING

WANTED: DIAMONDS Paying TOP Dollar for

1/4 to 10 Carats BUY • SELL • TRADE Gold, Silver, Platinum Diamond Jewelry In Any Form

Flatware and Holloware

GOLD & SILVER

(All Kinds And Time Periods) Silver Jewelry, Flatware Sets, Single Flatware Items Tea Sets, Antique Items (All Kinds)

COSTUME JEWELRY 1960 and Older (Buying Only Finer Quality Items)

Paying up to $300 for the following: Necklaces • Amber Items Sets Hat Pens • Compacts Mosaic Items • Cinnabar Items Jewelry Boxes From Jewelry Stores (pre-1940) Marcasite Items • Silver Boxes Bakelite Items • Earrings Glass Beaded Purses Purses (all kinds Pre–1950)

FINE JEWELRY

We are now buying selected pieces of fine jewelry for a future jewelry museum.

All time periods, all kinds, all types.

We are looking for the following: Silver Jewelry • Brooches Pendants • Necklaces Cocktail Rings Charm Bracelets • Earrings Bracelets • Cameos • Victorian Art Deco • Enameled Cufflinks • Pins Gold-Filled Jewelry (1920 & Older) Pearl Items Geometric Design • Ring Art Nouveau • Crossover Rings Lavaliers • Garnet Jewelry Bakelite Items Fillgree Rings • Floral Design.

ESTATE JEWELERS 6455 Monroe St., Sylvania

Between Harroun and Main St. Next to Marco’s Pizza.

(419) 885-9100 Hours: Mon.-Fri. 10-6 • Sat. 10-3

WRIST AND POCKET WATCHES Wristwatches and Pocketwatches All Time Periods, All Kinds, All Types Rare Watches Worth A Fortune In Cash!

Looking For : Regular Watches • Dudley Chronograph Watches E. Howard & Co Repeating Watches • Elgin Musical Watches • Frodsham Chiming Watches • Gallet Moon Phase Watches • Gruen Stop Watches • Gubelin Unusual Function • Hamilton Unusual Dial • Illinois Unusual Shape • International World Time Watches Jules Jurgenson Jump Hour Watches LeCourltre • Doctor’s Watches Longine • Pocket Watches Movado • Ladies Watches Omega • A. Lange Patek Phillippe Audemars piquet • Rolex Ball Seth Thomas • Breiting Tiffany & Co • Cartier Ulysse Nardin • Columbus Vach eron & Constantin Corum • All Others • Ditishiem

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24 n AUGUST 3, 2011 / TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM

“BBQ is life — you eat it, sleep it, drink it.” —John Earnest

EXERCISE SCIENCE

Owens is offering a NEW PROGRAM in Exercise Science.

Get started on an exciting career in the fields of Sports Management, Athletic Training, Exercise Physiology, Exercise Science, Kinesiology and Community Physical Education.

APPLY TODAY! www.owens.edu/exscience