Toledo Free Press STAR – Dec. 14, 2011

INSIDE: Holiday Events Guide

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DEC. 14, 2011

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”I’ve grown accustomed to her face!” — Professor Henry Higgins, “My Fair Lady”

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“She’s so deliciously low, so horribly dirty!” — Professor Henry Higgins, “My Fair Lady”

TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM / DEC. 14, 2011 n 3

Comedians stand up for benefit show

Stars of the Week

By Jeff McGinnis Toledo Free Press Star Staff Writer star@toledofreepress.com

“Comedy is very simple,” comedian Chili Challis said in an interview with Toledo Free Press Star. “You exude character. You first find out who you are and you come from that. You keep it very simple, because people love to see character, they love to see attitude. That’s what life’s about. Stand-up is very emotional. It’s not really about words. It’s an emotional art form.”

There is a reason Challis sounds a bit like a teacher as he explains his theories. Throughout a career in comedy that has spanned more than two decades — featuring stints writing for productions as famous as “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno” and “The Bob and Tom Show” — Challis has worked to pass along his knowledge to a new generation of comics.

Most recently, his efforts have been focused through his own school devoted to stand-up, which he calls simply The Dojo.

“I run it like some of these acting studios.

We get in deep. I get some people taking it multiple times, because it’s more than just one thing — they realize that each time they come back, there’s something new,” Challis said.

As Challis has run numerous seminars and courses during the past decade, one thing he’s always had an eye on was giving back to the Toledo community.

“I, for several years, have wanted the Dojo to get active and do something like Comedy for a Cause. Let’s do something and make a donation to a worthy charity,” Challis said.

“And really, this is a very last-minute thing, but it all kinda fell together OK.” The resulting event will take place Dec. 18 at Headliners on Detroit Avenue, with all proceeds going to the Toledo Northwestern Ohio Food Bank. The bill will feature at least a half dozen comics, headlined by Challis. Others scheduled to perform include Keith Bergman, Ken Scott, Ed Bartko and Tony Adamschick “I found a place we could do it, and I just felt, let’s just do it,” Challis said.

Breaking in

“They have a new stage inside the Jed’s restaurant that’s in the complex, and we’re gonna kinda break in the new stage,” Bergman said.

“It’s all basically to help the community. A lot of comedians live hand-to-mouth, so it’s something that’s near and dear to our hearts.”

Bergman has been working full time in stand-up for a year and a half.

“I actually tried it back in 2002, and I didn’t do very well at all. A lot of it was my own in-

From left, Keith Bergman, Ken Scott, Ed Bartko, Chili Challis and Tony Adamschick.

TOLEDO FREE PRESS STAR PHOTO BY JOSEPH HERR

abilities and my own hang-ups, but a lot of it was, there were very few opportunities at the time locally to really get on stage and hone your craft. There were very sparse amounts of open mic time where you could just sign up and go, and fail a bunch of times and just learn what you were doing,” Bergman said.

“Now, it’s a completely different environment.

People are generally supportive of it — they know you’re just starting out, they know you’re just learning the craft. Even the comedy clubs have stepped up and they’re helping with that.”

And for anyone who is trying to break into the business, nothing can be more instructive than being in front of people, Bergman said.

“Every time I go up, it’s funny — I feel like I hit a point every week or two where I’m like, ‘OK, this is it, I finally got it!’ And then, a couple weeks later, I look back and I say, ‘No, I didn’t have it then, but I have it now!’ It almost seems like every show there’s a new level of getting more competent at working with a crowd, at getting my point across,” he said. “I feel now like every time I go up now, I’m learning something new.”

Character first

Challis agreed on the importance of stage time for those learning comedy, an experience he tries to expose his trainees to every chance he gets.

“In The Dojo, I get ’em onstage as much as possible. As soon as they show up, that’s the first thing, they’re up onstage. Because the stage is where you separate the men from the boys. You find out what works, what’s good about yourself, your jokes,” he said.

Challis also noted how critical it is for new comedians to focus on their persona — how they come across to an audience, and how the crowd relates to them.

“Find out who you are. And if you can latch onto that character, it will give you a lot of solid ground. You’ll fear less, you’ll know where you’re coming from. If you go up there too scattered, you’re all over the place, you’re just thinking words, you’re gonna be in a lot of trouble,” Challis said.

When it goes right, Bergman said, there’s nothing like it.

“It’s probably one of the biggest rushes there is, when it goes well,” he said. “It’s exhilarating to be able to write something and then to go in front of people and perform it, and be able to make a connection with them.

“It’s even a rush, in a different way, when it doesn’t go well. It’s just kinda like jumping out of an airplane. You’re up there all by yourself, you’re kinda working without a net, and it’s kinda all up to you and what you have to say. It’s scary every time, but it’s also like a huge adrenaline rush to do. It’s very addicting, actually.”

Very addicting, actually. Bergman even said he feels withdrawal if there are days when he isn’t under the lights.

“Any night that I’m not going out to do comedy somewhere, there’s this pang,” he said.

“Even if I have things to do at home, if I need a night off to get some sleep and catch up or stay home and do some writing, there’s this kinda pang of regret, like, ‘Oh, I wish I was onstage!’”

Coming together

It’s even more gratifying when the fun is focused on giving to people in need, as it will be at Headliners. Though this year’s event coalesced at the last minute, Challis said he is hopeful that the show will become an annual tradition.

“This first year’s gonna be tough, because we have just short promotional time, but we’re gonna kick it off, and next year we’ll start a little sooner,” he said.

“This year, it’s kinda haphazard. We’re just gonna try and get people in there and get some money off of them at the door. Headliners agreed even to give up 10 percent of everything they make off of the food and beverages. Nice things are coming together.”

Bergman said he hopes attendees garner more than just the good feeling of giving to a worthy cause.

“It’ll help foster kind of a sense of community.

We’re coming together for a serious cause, to help a serious issue, but we’re also coming together at a stressful time of the year to kinda blow off some steam and have some laughs,” Bergman said. “I think that’s essential. I think we need to take that break at this time of year. It kinda helps us reflect on how good we have it, that we have the luxury to do that. And it gives us a sense of community.

“We can all be in a large group without pepper spraying each other to get the last Furby on the shelf.”

For more information on Chili Challis’ standup Dojo, visit http://standupschool.com/. For more information on the Dec. 18 charity event, contact Headliners at (419) 693-5300. O

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”What a heartless, wicked, brainless thing to do!” — Professor Henry Higgins, “My Fair Lady”

Aurora Florence as Eliza Doolittle

Charm and romance

By Sarah Ottney

TOLEDO FREE PRESS SPECIAL SECTIONS EDITOR sottney@toledofreepress.com

Aurora Florence has had a whirlwind year.

The 22-year-old graduated from college and

got married before embarking on a national traveling tour of “My Fair Lady” as leading lady Eliza Doolittle this fall.

Florence, who graduated in June from Brigham Young University with a degree in musical theater, said she feels blessed to be working

in her first “real job” so soon after graduation.

“It’s really wonderful,” Florence told Toledo Free Press Star from a tour stop in Lakeland, Fla. “I’ve learned so much. Eliza is such a deep character. There’s so much there to work on from an acting standpoint, so I feel

Leading lady makes national debut in ‘My Fair Lady’ at Stranahan. like I’m learning so much.”

Luckily, the newlywed didn’t have to leave her husband behind to follow her dream — he is traveling with her as an ensemble member in the show. n LADY CONTINUES ON 5

“I ain’t dirty! I washed my face and hands before I come, I did.” — Eliza Doolittle, “My Fair Lady”

TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM / DEC. 14, 2011 n . 5

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Aurora Florence as Eliza Doolittle and Chris Carsten as Henry Higgins.

PHOTOS COURTESY THEATER LEAGUE

n LADY CONTINUED FROM 4 “It’s been very tiring, but really a lot of fun,” Florence said. “It’s so nice to have my husband here with me, for sure.”

“My Fair Lady” opens Dec. 15 in Toledo at the Stranahan Theater, 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd., as part of the Broadway Series presented by the Theater League.

Performances are set for 8 p.m. Dec. 15 and 16, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Dec. 17, and 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 18.

Based on George Bernard Shaw’s “Pygmalion,” “My Fair Lady” is the story of Eliza Doolittle, a Cockney flower girl who overhears a phonetics professor boast to a friend that he could give her speech lessons and pass her off as a proper lady. The professor, Henry Higgins, was joking, but when Eliza takes him seriously, he agrees to the challenge. During the process, Higgins falls in love with Eliza, while Eliza learns that some people will treat her poorly no matter how well she speaks, while others will treat her well no matter how poorly she speaks.

Memorable songs include “Wouldn’t It Be Loverly?” “I Could Have Danced All Night,” “I’ve Grown Accustomed to Her Face” and “Get Me to the Church on Time.”

“I love getting to sing ‘I Could Have Danced All Night,’” Florence said. “That’s really a treat.

Sharing it with the audience is a lot of fun.”

With Eliza having been portrayed by iconic leading ladies Julie Andrews on Broadway and Audrey Hepburn in film, Florence went into the role knowing she may have big shoes to fill in people’s minds.

“Approaching it, I certainly was aware of

all that, but I tried to not let it touch me,” she said. “There’s no way I can beat either of them.

I just tried to approach the character as honestly as possible.”

Florence grew up near Sacramento, in Loomis, Calif., where her mother runs a nonprofit theater company called Take Note Troupe.

She grew up listening to musicals and watching both parents perform, but it wasn’t until she saw a tour of “Les Miserables” in high school that she decided she wanted to pursue theater as a career.

Florence said she can relate to Eliza’s journey of discovering who she really is and learning to stand up for herself.

“I think having the strength and the courage to overstep class boundaries and be true to who she is, I certainly relate to that,” Florence said. “I think it’s a struggle all people go through in how to be true to who they are and to recognize boundaries and restrictions and when they are there to keep you safe and when they should be disregarded.”

Florence said audiences will enjoy the romantic comedy.

“I think they will definitely laugh; it’s a really funny show,” Florence said. “You’ll have a great time. We have a really talented ensemble and a really solid group. I think they can go away feeling inspired to treat people the way they deserve to be treated and also be true to themselves.”

Tickets range from $23 to $58 and are available by calling the Stranahan Theater box office at 866-381-7469, Ticketmaster at 800-982-2787, or online at www.theaterleague.com.

For more information, visit the web site www. myfairladyontour.com. O

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”Why can’t a woman be more like a man?” — Professor Henry Higgins, “My Fair Lady”

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Ramona Collins and Hepca at the Dec. 1 concert for thet Revival peformed “The Christmas Song” “Holiday Wishes.” The con Make-A-Wish Foundation benefit CD The CD is available at localcert took place at The Blarney Bullpen.

Panera Bread locations.

TOLEDO FREE PRESS STAR PHOTO

BY JOSEPH HERR

“I could have danced all night.” — Eliza Doolittle, “My Fair Lady”

TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM / DEC. 14, 2011 n 7

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There is a New Restaurant in Town Star Bar and Grille now open

It’s kind of hard to find, but once you’ve been there, you’ll be back. Star Bar and Grille is the new restaurant just opened by Joe Skaff. The Skaffs have a long history of operating fine restaurants in Toledo, including The Willows on Monroe Street and Ricardo’s Downtown. The third-generation Skaff started Avenue Bistro in 2000 and sold it in 2003. He also runs all of the very successful Star Diners and owns and operates Premier Catering.

This new venture, Star Bar and Grille, follows the same standard of class as its predecessors.

When you walk in, you know you are in a cool place. A sunken bar area gets your attention immediately; then you see a wall of glass overlooking a huge patio — to be open in the spring. The glass wall will open up to the patio when weather permits. The atmosphere is casual with a sense of energy, with a mix of cultured stone work, beautifully varnished woods and contemporary art completing the décor. It is very clean, very cool.

Of course, TVs entice you to watch your favorite game. Star Bar and Grille has the NFL Ticket and features entertainment — various solo acts early in the week turning into more of a club scene late night Thursday. Saturday features DJ Matt Lewis.

But the main feature is the food. Made with a Southwestern flair, the menu contains 50 items: everything from appetizers, pizza, quesadillas, sandwiches, salads and main dinners dot the menu. The prices are inexpensive, starting at just $4.95. Among the appetizers are a seared tuna tostada, crab cake, calamari and a great spinach queso dip. There are four different pizzas and

four quesadillas to choose from, all $5.95-$9.50.

There are 12 sandwiches to pick from, starting at $6.95 and including a side item. If you are a salad person, you’ll love Star Bar and Grille’s five salads — ahi tuna, salmon, shrimp, chicken and tenderloin — all different and all with their own dressing.

Dinners start at $9.95 and range from grilled chicken, tenderloin and a large bone-in pork chop to salmon, tuna, short ribs and a very popular surf-and-turf taco.

The Star Bar and Grille is hard to find. Asked why he picked the location for the restaurant, Skaff replied, “I had two prerequisites: unlimited parking and most important, a large patio with a bar. This was the only place around with both and I wanted to be by the mall. The patio will be great in the spring.”

Asked about the inspiration or theme, Skaff said, “I wanted to create a cutting-edge, contemporary,

high-energy place that makes people feel good when they come in. I also wanted to create a menu that would not kill the wallet. You can eat here for two people for $10-20 (excluding drinks) if you want and have a great meal. I don’t care how much money you have — no one wants to spend $100 every time they go out. I want people to enjoy the restaurant a couple of times a week, like a neighborhood place.”

All in all this is a first-rate eatery that should be a must on the list of restaurants you go to. The Star Bar and Grille is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner at 11:30 a.m. It is located at 5215 Monroe St. in the back of Beverly Hills Plaza between Target and Bed Bath and Beyond.

Reservations are accepted at (419) 724-7901, but not necessary.

Remember — try us once, you’ll be back!

Visit us at starbarandgrille.com.

Open for Lunch & Dinner & Late Night Entertainment

5215 Monroe St.

StarBarAndGrille.com

419-724-7901

8 n DEC. 14, 2011 / TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM

”By George, she’s got it!” — Professor Henry Higgins, “My Fair Lady”

Jawbone offers Bluetooth boom box

By James A. Molnar Toledo Free Press Star Staff Writer jmolnar@toledofreepress.com

Y P P A H HOLIDays!

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Jawbone, typically known for its Bluetooth headsets, is branching out with high-end accessories for the iPhone and other mobile devices.

Perfect for the gadget guru and music lover, JAMBOX by Jawbone is a blend of form and function. A small metal and rubber brick-sized device, the music machine connects to a Bluetooth-enabled device such as a laptop, iPad or iPhone and plays music up to 33 feet away from the Bluetooth device.

A high-end wireless speaker, JAMBOX delivers some of the best audio quality around — with additional downloadable features to improve sound clarity and create an immersive, three-dimensional listening experience. Operating the speaker is very straightforward.

The only downside is that music cannot be controlled from the JAMBOX. Music must be paused, rewound and forwarded from the iPad or other device where the music is stored and played.

JAMBOX also works as a speakerphone, allowing the user to connect to phone calls.

The quality here is also very good.

Jawbone also offers a philanthropic version of its JAMBOX. The company joined

forces with the charity “water,” an organization dedicated to providing clean and safe drinking water to a billion people who are currently living without it. The slick-looking limited edition is black and yellow and $50 from each purchase goes to charity: water.

The JAMBOX retails for $199.99. Colors include red, black, gray and blue. O

JAMBOX Blue Wave.

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“The rain in Spain falls mainly on the plain.” — Eliza Doolittle, “My Fair Lady”

Concert to raise funds for Memphis trip The Black Swamp Blues Society is hostng a fundraiser Dec. 18 to help send its Youth Showcase Band, Benny and The Bricks, to the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, Tenn.

This is the second year in a row the fourpiece blues band has won the title of Youth Showcase Band. The group includes Devin Krueger on guitar and lead vocals, Blair Tuller on lead guitar, David Morris on bass and James Gerhardt on drums.

The fundraiser will take place at Trotters Tavern with performances from Benny and The Bricks, the Jeff Williams Group, Buzz Anderson and friends, Voodoo Libido, Jason Quick, New Blues Street Project and The Good, The Bad and The Blues.

Trotters Tavern is located at 5131 Heath-

TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM / DEC. 14, 2011 n 9

“Like Us” for Dinner Quick Carryout & Hot Delivery

BENNY AND THE BRICKS erdowns Blvd. The fundraiser will run from 3-9 p.m. O — Staff Reports

Public Library announces holiday hours The Toledo-Lucas County Public Library released its holiday hours. Libraries will close Dec. 24 and open again Dec. 27. They will close again Dec. 31 at 5:30 p.m. and reopen Jan. 3. Visit toledo library.org for a complete list of branch hours and more information about the libraries. O — Staff Reports

Large 1-Topping Pizza and 1/2 Doz. Wings

Make-A-Wish CD available at iTunes, Amazon “Holiday Wishes,” a CD of local artists performing holiday music as a benefit for MakeA-Wish Foundation, is available at the music download services CDBaby.com, Amazon and iTunes. The 25-track CD sells for $10 and is avail-

able at local Panera Bread locations through Jan. 1. Artists such as Jamie Farr, Toledo Symphony Orchestra, Mannheim Steamroller, Kerry Patrick Clark and many others contribute to the CD. O — Staff Reports

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10 n DEC. 14, 2011 / TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM

”I’m a good girl, I am!” — Eliza Doolittle, “My Fair Lady”

CD GIFT Gift Guide

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By Alan Sculley Toledo Free Press Star Staff Writer star@toledofreepress.com

Music always makes a great holiday gift, and this year the record industry worked hard to put together a wide selection of box sets and other collections to please fans of just about any genre. Here are some excellent options: Ray Charles: “Singular Genius: The Complete ABC Singles” (Concord) — Charles started out on Atlantic Records, but his career didn’t really take off until he left Atlantic for a lucrative deal with ABC Records. This five-CD set compiles Charles’ singles for ABC from 1960-73. It has hits like “Georgia On My Mind,” “Hit The Road, Jack” and “I Can’t Stop Loving You,” but what this set really demonstrates is the consistent quality of Charles’ work through this period — Rating: ****1/2 Various Artists: “The Best Of Rock and Roll Hall of Fame + Museum Live” (Time Life) — During the past quarter century, the all-star performances at the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame ceremonies have been nothing short of historic. And 51 such performances from a who’s who of music royalty are featured in this highly entertaining three-CD set. — Rating: **** Johnny Cash: “Bootleg, Vol. III: Live Around the World” (Columbia/Legacy) – This two-CD set collects 53 mostly unreleased live performances from 10 shows that span 1956 through 1979. Of special note is a 1970 White House concert with a gospel slant. Many of Cash’s famous songs are included in the shows, but what “Live Around The World” really illustrates is Cash’s range and growth as a live performer. — Rating: ***1/2.

Etta James: “Heart & Soul/A Retrospective” (Hip-O Select) — Aretha Franklin may be the “Queen of Soul,” but James is a close second.

Spanning 1955-2008, this four-CD set covers everything from the lush balladry of “At Last” to the rough and tumble sounds of “Pay Back” and “Tell

Mama.” Few artists — female or male — can match James’ command of R&B and soul in its varieties. — Rating: ****1/2 The Jimi Hendrix Experience: “Winterland” (Experience Hendrix/Legacy) — A year after these 1968 shows Hendrix disbanded his group, the Experience. But the trio of Hendrix, bassist Noel Redding and drummer Mitch Mitchell is in fine form on this four-CD live set, as it takes tracks like “Foxy Lady,” “Purple Haze” and especially “Are You Experienced?” to fresh and adventurous new places. — Rating: **** Miles Davis: “Miles Davis Quintet Live In Europe 1967” (Columbia Legacy) — This three CD/one-DVD set features unreleased performances by what many consider Davis’ greatest band, (Wayne Shorter on saxophone, Herbie Hancock on piano, Ron Carter on bass and Tony Williams on drums). Fans will love comparing multiple versions of songs like “Footprints,” “Round Midnight” and “Masqualero,” while enjoying the classic Miles Davis Quintet in prime form. Rating: ***1/2.

The Temptations: “50th Anniversary: Singles Collection 1961-1971” (Hip-O Select)/The Supremes: “50th Anniversary: Singles Collection 1961-1969” (Hip-O Select) — These two three-disc collections are the first releases to in-

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Other worthy sets: Simon & Garfunkel: “Bridge Over Troubled Water 40th Anniversary Edition” (Columbia/ Legacy) — An illuminating documentary highlights this reissue.

Ben Folds: “The Best Imitation Of Myself: A Retrospective” (Legacy) — A disc of live performances and a disc of unreleased material.

Sam Cooke: “The RCA Albums Collection” (PopMarket.com) — Cooke is one of rock and soul’s great pioneers, and this eight-disc collection (six of the albums on CD for the first time) shows why his legacy stands tall.

John Denver: “The RCA Albums Collection” (PopMarket.com) — A remarkable collection of 24 albums, this set showcases Denver’s unique blend of pop and country music, including a limited run 1966 album that was originally pressed just for Denver’s friends and family.

“Phil Spector Presents The Philles Albums Collection” (PopMarket.com) — Nearly 90 tracks are in this set, encompassing one of rock’s most inventive producers, through such artists as Darlene Love, The Crystals and The Ronettes. O

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clude every A- and B-side released by these two legendary vocal groups. The hits from each group are here, but so are lots of intriguing lesser-known songs. And one can literally hear both the Temptations and Supremes develop their signature sounds as the sets move from early singles to prime material. — Ratings: Temptations: ****; Supremes: **** Pink Floyd: “Discovery Box” and other releases (EMI) — This was a great year for Pink Floyd fans. The “Discovery Box” collects remastered versions of all 14 of the group’s studio CDs. Even more exciting for hardcore fans are reissues of three key albums — “Dark Side Of The Moon,” “Wish You Were Here” and “The Wall” — in expanded “Experience” sets and massive multi-disc “Immersion” packages filled with outtakes, concert recordings and more. — Rating: **** Nirvana, “Nevermind” (Universal Music Enterprises) — A two-disc reissue features the original groundbreaking album plus unreleased early recordings and rehearsals of “Nevermind” songs and outtakes from the recording sessions.

For those who want more, a “Super Deluxe” edition also includes a previously unreleased concert recording from Halloween 1991 and producer Butch Vig’s previously unreleased mixes of “Nevermind.” — Rating: ****

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TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM / DEC. 14, 2011 n 11

Elvis set offers five CDs of 1950s history

By Nate Pentecost Toledo Free Press Star STAFF WRITER

liday uide

star@toledofreepress.com

From “Blue Suede Shoes” to “The Truth About Me” and everything in between, “Young Man with the Big Beat” takes listeners through the year that turned a Southern boy into the King of rock ’n’ roll.

The first two discs of the Sony Legacy collection are the 39 studio recordings that were completed and released in the seminal year of Presley’s RCA career. The first disc begins with the 12 songs from his debut LP, “Elvis Presley,” then follows with a handful of non-LP A- and B- sides.

The second disc starts with the 12 tracks from “Elvis,” his second album from 1956, which includes 10 non-LP A- and B- sides.

Both albums draw upon Presley’s knowledge of American music, primarily fusing country, rhythm and blues and pop. However, Elvis was not chiefly a songwriter. As a result, his work relies on contributions from now-legendary writers such as Little Richard, Jerry Leiber, Mike Stoller, Jesse Stone and Carl Perkins.

This is evident from the beginning of “Elvis Presley,” which kicks off the box set with the blistering pace of Presley’s rendition of the rockabilly classic “Blue Suede Shoes.”

Backed by a more polished ensemble of musicians, Presley joins the twangy vibe of Perkins’ original with his own bellowing vocals to create a sound and feel which are the very essence of early American rock ’n’ roll.

Presley’s take on “I Got A Woman” leaves behind a good portion of the jazz-inspired rhythm and blues of Ray Charles’ version. But at 21, Presley was still able to grasp the soulfulness of the music with his voice, and in the process, deliver the message to a different audience.

Even The King had to have understood the improbability of matching the intense, pianodriven style of “Tutti Frutti,” let alone the erratic, gospel-based howling distinct to Little Richard.

Instead, Presley offers a more composed approach to the vocals, while a heavy dose of guitar works to maintain the track’s frantic pace.

“Elvis Presley” concludes with “Money Honey,” a song written by Stone for Clyde McPhatter and

Top collaborators

On Disc Two, the second song on “Elvis,” “Love Me,” marks Leiber and Stoller’s first collaboration with The King. The track combines simplistic but meaningful lyrics with a melancholy tune, complemented by Elvis’ smooth, elongated delivery. The Jordanaires’ deep, soulful backing vocals top off an outstanding doo-wop ballad.

The Jordanaires, who joined Presley shortly after he signed with RCA, backed The King on countless tracks from 1956 to 1972, in addition to numerous other popular acts.

Nowhere is their presence felt on “Elvis” more than in “Old Shep,” the country-based song which weaves the story of a young man whose dog has died. On a track largely void of instrumental backing, the gospel quartet is essential in creating the woesome flow of the song, providing gentle backing vocals that guide the tale from beginning to end.

Presley takes another crack at a Little Richard classic with a rendition of “Long Tall Sally.” This

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time he is spot-on, delivering a raspy, energetic take which leaves the listener wondering if they are still hearing the same artist.

Elvis brings the heat again with “Ready Teddy,” another ditty made popular by Little Richard.

This up-tempo track is driven by the piano and guitar. Harsh, throaty vocals leave no doubt that Presley means it when he says he is, “Gonna rock ’n’ roll, till the early, early night.”

The third disc boasts 21 rare live renditions of some of Presley’s most notable hits from three different performances. The first is a four-song set from a show at the Frontier Hotel in Las Vegas.

Though he is now part of the very fabric of the city, Vegas’ predominately middle-aged crowd of 1956 hardly responds to rousing performances of “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Long Tall Sally,” “Blue Suede Shoes” and “Money Honey.”

Elvis even makes a “heartburn motel” quip mid-song which fails to soften the crowd enough to even elicit a polite chuckle.

The audience might be dull, but that means that unlike the other pair of shows, the Frontier Hotel gig offers a near-studio quality live performance by Presley and his band.

The Little Rock, Ark., performance begins with the announcer of the broadcast reducing the title of Presley’s opening song to “Heartbreak Motel.”

The broadcaster’s erroneous introduction prevents us from hearing the beginning of the song, but even he fails to drown out the deafening screams of the female audience members.

The fourth disc provides a wealth of outtakes from Elvis’ early RCA sesssions with a total of 27 unused tracks. It features takes of songs from the first RCA session, including alternate versions of “I Got a Woman,” “Heartrbreak Hotel,” “I’m Counting on You” and “I Was the One,” as well as the complete session of Feb. 3, 1956.

The February session offers eight takes on “Lawdy Miss Clawdy,” in which Presley mainly just tinkers with pitch and inflection.

The next four tracks include 12 takes of Pre-

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sley experimenting with alternative lyrics to “Shake, Rattle and Roll,” with intermittent fits of laughter from the band.

The sound quality is superb, but the alternative versions and session takes are not so significantly different as to warrant more than a listen or two for anyone who is not a diehard fan. Regardless, the disc gives an insightful look at the beginning of a legendary career.

The spoken audio begins on disc four with an interview at the Warwick Hotel.

The spoken material reveals Presley to be a polite and respectful young man and “The Complete TV Guide Presents Elvis Interview” on Disc Five is no exception.

Presley gracefully and humbly takes inquiries by TV Guide’s Paul Wilder on topics ranging from religion, to acting, to how Elvis feels about his fans and critics.

The box set concludes with a pair of ads Presley recorded for the RCA Victrola phonograph. The ads are a unique bit of nostalgia but a rather monotone delivery reminds us that the Elvis of 1956 was still developing the persona of The King.

“Young Man with the Big Beat” is an exceptional release, rich in its musical and spoken content. This box set is well worth a listen for longtime fans seeking to revisit the breakout year of Presley’s career, as well as for those of a new generation, discovering his incredibly influential music for the first time. O

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the Drifters, which McPhatter carries with strikingly shrill vocals.

Presley sings with conviction the same angsty tale of a man who has gone to his woman for financial help only to find she has taken up with another man who already has money.

As the story unfolds, Presley reaches a nearfalsetto pitch as well, but only while repeating the song’s title, subtly reminding the listener of the childish nature of the man’s cry for help.

The singles that round out the first disc are as enthralling as Presley’s debut album.

The tracks begin with “Heartbreak Hotel,” Presley’s interpretation of the song based on a newspaper article about the suicide of a lonely man who jumped from a hotel window.

Presley’s voice is augmented by the use of reverberation, which, when melded with his powerful delivery creates a sound as eerie and gripping as the story itself.

Without a saxophone or trumpet, Presley’s “Lawdy, Miss Clawdy” lacks the lively, New Orleans jazz influence found in Lloyd Price’s original version. Nevertheless, he offers a bluesy, carefree take that, combined with a boisterous piano backup, makes the track one of the most enjoyable on the disc.

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Compiled by Whitney Meschke Events are subject to change.

”Damn, damn, damn, DAMN!” — Professor Henry Higgins, “My Fair Lady”

MUSIC & Merry-Making

City Road, Rossford. $10. (419) 666-1393 or www.allsaintsrossford.org.

O 7-9 p.m. Dec. 22, St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, Q515 County Road 17, Napoleon. $10-$20. (419) 758-3522 or www.stpaulsnapoleontwp.org.

Kenny Rogers

The Kings of Christmas Tour

This country icon will perform holiday favorites and classic hits such as “The Gambler” and “Lady.” Billy Dean will open 7:30 p.m. Dec. 14, BGSU’s Stroh Center, 1535 E. Wooster St., Bowling Green. $31-$51. (877) 247-8842, ticketmaster.com or www.bgsufalcons.com.

Former members of Trans-Siberian Orchestra teamed up to comprise this group, which focuses on musicianship; combining holiday, blues, R&B, funk and rock ’n’ roll, and, of course, a light show. 7:30 p.m. Dec. 16-17, Ritz Theatre, 20 S. Washington St., Tiffin. $25-$60. (419) 448-8544 or www.ritztheatre.org.

Holiday Concert Series Make your lunchtime a little merrier with performances by local groups in the library’s Wintergarden.12:30-1:30 p.m., Toledo Lucas County Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St. (419) 259-5207 or toledolibrary.org.

O Susan Hedler and friend: Dec. 14.

O John Cleveland: Dec. 15.

O Sylvania Northview Jazz Band & Jazz Cats: Dec. 16.

O Ottawa Hills High School: Dec. 21.

O Toledo School for the Arts: Dec. 22.

Sounds of the Season series Area high school choirs and instrumental ensembles will perform holiday classics. Westfield Franklin Park, 5001 Monroe St. (419) 473-3317 or westfield.com/franklinpark.

O Northview (Sylvania) High School: 6-7 p.m. Dec. 15.

O Perrysburg High School: 7-8 p.m. Dec. 15.

Toledo Symphony neighborhood concerts The Glass City’s big band will take their pipes, horns, harps and jingle bells on the road to perform holiday shows at venues throughout Northwest Ohio. www. toledosymphony.com.

O 7:30-9:30 p.m. Dec. 15, Augsburg Lutheran Church, 1342 W. Sylvania Ave. $10. (419) 478-2374 or augsburg-toledo.org.

O 7:30-9:30 p.m. Dec. 16, St. Luke’s Lutheran Church, 1690 Sterns Road, Temperance. $15. (734)

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O 4-6 p.m. Dec. 18, All Saints Catholic Church, 628 Lime

A Hot Pink Christmas The Hot Flashes will perform Christmas favorites from the ’50s and ’60s, and a silent auction and donated proceeds will support the local Christmas Angel Tree Project.

3 p.m. Dec. 18, Riverview Banquet Center, 405 W. Front St., Pemberville. (419) 833-1281 or (419) 287-454.

Swingmania 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. (419) 708-0265, (419) 874-0290 or www.swingmania.org.

O New Year’s Eve party: 8:30 p.m. Dec. 31-12:30 a.m.

Jan. 1, Toledo Club, 235 14th St. (419) 243-2200 or www.toledoclub.org.

Family Fun Children’s Wonderland Animated displays, train rides, a toy store, pictures with Santa, plus activities including ornament decoration, photobooth snapshots, putt-putt and more, are highlights of this 48-year Toledo tradition. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays and noon-6 p.m. Sundays through Dec. 23; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 24; and 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Dec. 26-29, Tam-o-Shanter, 7060 Sylvania Ave., Sylvania. $2$5. (419) 885-1167, ext. 4, or www.playsylvania.com.

Dearborn. $15-$17. (313) 982-6001, (800) 835-5237 or www.thehenryford.org.

Holidays at TMA

Imagination Station holidays

The museum offers its usual respite from the crass and commercial (and a fun place to take out-of-town visitors), emphasizing the creative instead. New this year is the Great Art Escape. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesdays-Thursdays; 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Fridays; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays; noon-6 p.m. Sundays; closed Dec. 25 and Jan. 1, 2445 Monroe St. (419) 255-8000 or toledomuseum.org.

O Create a Glass Icicle art hour: 6, 7 and 8 p.m. Dec. 16 and 23; 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 p.m. Dec. 17; $25. Reservations: (419) 254-5771, ext. 7448.

O “The Sacred Tree of Winter: A Celebration of the Winter Solstice” performance. 2-3 p.m. Dec. 17, Cloister.

O Signs of Winter hands-on activity: 2-4 p.m. Dec. 17, Libbey Court.

O Family Center activity: Holiday memory book. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 27 and 29.

O Great Art Escape: Stroll the galleries and sample storytelling, drawing instruction, glass demonstrations and live performances, maybe even win a prize. 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 27-29, 10:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Dec. 30 and 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 31.

Ever thought about the science behind the season? This experimental wonderland will get to the atomic heart of it all. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays, Dec. 26 and Jan. 2; noon-5 p.m. Sundays; and closed Dec. 24-25 and Jan. 1, Summit and Adams streets. $7-$9. (419) 244-2674 or imaginationstationtoledo.org.

O Gingerbread Village: Culinary students from Penta Career Center have designed and built a gingerbread village, and visitors can vote for their favorites in person and on Facebook.

In addition, a giant gingerbread castle will be open for tours.

O Kris Kringle Village: Wintry activity stations will include a gallery of Dr. Snowflake’s paper crystal-like creations and the chance to make some of your own (the man himself will visit noon-2 p.m. Dec. 27); scientific ornament-making; and “growing” snow.

O Liquid nitrogen ice cream: Peppermint and chocolate chip are the flavors being scooped up on weekends.

Holiday Nights in Greenfield Village Candlelit paths, live entertainment from costumed presenters, carriage and Model T rides, Santa and live reindeer, ice skating and fireworks will help visitors set the mood. 6:30-10 p.m. Dec. 16-23 and 26-27, Henry Ford Museum & Greenfield Village, 20900 Oakwood Blvd.,

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Lights Before Christmas One million lights, 200 lighted animal images and, yes, Virginia, the opportunity to see the animals make this a tradition worth continuing. Ice-carving demonstrations on Thursdays, a huge model train display and visits with Santa round out the experience, and don’t forget about the way-too-cool Dancing Lights. 5-8 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays and until 9 p.m. FridaysSundays through Dec. 31 (closed Dec. 24-25), Toledo Zoo, 2700 Broadway St. $8-$11. (419) 385-4040 or toledozoo.org.

n CALENDAR CONTINUES ON 13

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”George Clooney gives one of his most emotionally raw performances on the big screen. Combined with Clooney, the perfect execution by on-screen daughter Shailene Woodley and a very good screenplay, audiences are treated to one of the best movies of the year. In addition, the soundtrack perfectly blends the plot’s transitions with Hawaiian music.”

STAR is looking for movie reviews, 50 words or less. Send them to star@toledofreepress.com.

n CALENDAR CONTINUED FROM 12

The Town Center at Levis Commons Before getting repetitive stress injury from swiping that credit card, take part in a little holiday fun. 3201 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg. (419) 931-8888 or www.shopleviscommons.com.

O Snow Globe Live: An encapsulated winter wonderland fit for photos or just playtime. 6-8 p.m. Dec. 16-17.

O Carriage rides: 6-8 p.m. Dec. 16-17, 23-24 and 30-31, from Chappel Drive near Schakolad Chocolate Factory. $5-$10.

O Visit with Santa: Kids can share their hearts’ desires while parents snap pictures. 5-9 p.m. Dec. 16; 3-7 p.m.

Dec. 17 and 19-23; and 1-5 p.m. Dec. 18, near the fountain.

O Holiday blood drive: 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Dec. 22, Hilton Garden Inn, 6165 Levis Commons Blvd.

O Play It Forward toy drive: Donate the playthings the kids have grown out of. Noon-5 p.m. Jan. 6-7.

Santa’s Wonderland The kids can make merry while adults shop for outdoor gear.

Bass Pro Shop, 10000 Bass Pro Blvd., Rossford. (419) 8913900 or www.basspro.com.

O Photos with Santa: Parents will love the free 4-by-6inch pics; kids will love the face-time with the big guy.

10 a.m.-8 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays and 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Sundays and Dec. 24.

O Snowbrawl: An inflatable snow fort will be the base of operations for stuffed-snowball offensives. 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Tuesdays-Thursdays.

O Crafts: Kids will be able to make jingle bell snowmen

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13360 County Home Road, Bowling Green. $1-$4. (419) 352-0967 or www.woodcountyhistory.org.

O Christmas teas: 2 p.m. Dec. 15, $3-$12. Reservations advised.

O Old Home Holiday self-guided tours: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Dec. 14-16; 1-4 p.m. Dec. 17-18, $1-$5.

O Gingerbread workshop: 1-4 p.m. Dec. 17, $20.

O Railroad display: 1-4 p.m. Dec. 17-18.

O Visits with Santa: 6-8 p.m. Dec. 14-15.

O Acoustic Magic performance: 5-8 p.m. Dec. 15.

O Living Christmas Cards: Four exhibit rooms come to life with interactive interpreters. Family crafts included. 6-8 p.m.

Dec. 15-16 and 1-4 p.m. Dec. 18.

O Kath Baltz dulcimer performance: 6-8 p.m. Dec. 16.

“It’s a Wonderful Life” The classic tale of a man’s search for his worth when he’s at his blackest point will be staged as a radio play.

7:30 p.m. Dec. 14, Owens Community College, Center for Fine and Performing Arts’ Mainstage Theatre, 30335 Oregon Road, Perrysburg. $12-$20. (567) 661-2787 or (800) 466-9367, ext. 2787, or www.owens.edu/arts.

Holiday Parade of Trees About three dozen spectacularly decorated concoctions, entertainment by local choirs and a buffet should instill Christmas spirit. 6-9 p.m. Dec. 14 and 20-21, Toledo Club, 235 14th St. $12-$25. (419) 243-2200 or www.toledoclub.com.

n CALENDAR CONTINUES ON 14

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(through Dec. 18) and decorate cookies (Dec. 19-24).

5-7 p.m. Dec. 14-16 and 19-23; and noon-5 p.m. Dec. 17-18 and Dec. 24.

O Other activities include laser and soft gun arcades, remote-control truck tracks, model trains and slot-car racing.

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O Pictures with Santa: The North Pole denizen will offer free hugs, smiles and ho-ho-hos. Noon-8 p.m. Dec. 14-17 and 19-23, with an hour’s break at 3:45 p.m.; noon-5 p.m. Dec. 18; and 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Dec. 24, with a 45-minute break at 1 p.m., Santa Set. $23-$46 for prints. (419) 878-6255.

O Carriage rides: 5-9 p.m. Dec. 16-17 and Dec. 23; noon-4 p.m. Dec. 18; and 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 24, pick-up next to Santa’s Winter Wonderland and the Gap. $5.

O Breakfast with Santa: 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 18, Granite City. $5.99-$14.99. First come, first served. (419) 878-9050.

TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM / DEC. 14, 2011 n 13

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14 n DEC. 14, 2011 / TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM

”Shall I take her in, or hurl her to the wolves?” — Professor Henry Higgins, “My Fair Lady”

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n CALENDAR CONTINUED FROM 13

The Bethlehem Experience Visitors can walk through the streets of “Bethlehem,” interacting with the people and animals of the ancient marketplace, and see the tale of the nativity unfold. 6-9 p.m. Dec. 14 and 16, Westgate Chapel, 2500 Wilford Dr. (419) 841-8077 or www.westgatechapel.org.

Pictures with Santa Children and the young in spirit can share their wishes with Père Noël. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Dec. 14-17 and 19-23, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Dec. 18 and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Dec. 24, with breaks from 1-2 p.m. and 5-6 p.m.; Macy’s wing of Westfield Franklin Park, 5001 Monroe St. $21-$45 photo packages. (419) 473-3317 or westfield.com/franklinpark.

“A Christmas Carol” The story — Scrooge, Tiny Tim and scary, omniscient ghosts — is a holiday must, and the Meadow Brook Theatre has been adding music and dancing for 30 years. 8 p.m. Dec. 14-16 and 20-23; and 2 and 6:30 p.m. Dec. 1718, Meadow Brook Theatre, Oakland University, 2200 N. Squirrel Road, Rochester, Mich. $34-$40. (248) 377-3300, www.mbtheatre.com or www.ticketmaster.com.

Fall Fest 2011

STUDIO OF DANCE

Astronomy goes global with this series of encore presentations. 8 p.m. Fridays and Tuesdays, 2 p.m. Saturdays and 7:30 p.m. Sundays, BGSU Planetarium, Room 112, Physical Sciences Lab Building, near North College Drive and East Merry Avenue, Bowling Green. $1. (419) 3728666, (419) 372-2421 or physics.bgsu.edu/planetarium.

O “Secret of the Star”: Through Dec. 20.

Poinsettia Tour Visitors can take a look at the new varieties of poinsettias and perhaps win one to take home with them. 1-2 p.m. Dec. 16, Bostdorff’s Greenhouse Acres, 18862 N. Dixie Hwy., Bowling Green. Register: (419) 661-1697 or reservations. woodcountyparkdistrict.org.

“The Alien Who Stole Christmas”

419.654.3262

www.dancetoledo.com 4853 Monroe St., Toledo

NEW YORK STYLE PIZZA 419-724-7437

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Santa gets sidetracked by an alien friend, visiting other planets in our solar system and discovering the stars visible in the sky. 7:30 p.m. Dec. 16 and 23, and 1 p.m. Dec. 17, UT’s Ritter Planetarium, 2801 W. Bancroft St. $5-$6. (419) 530-4037, (419) 530-2650 or www.rpbo.utoledo.edu

“The Trial of Ebeneezer Scrooge” The Christmas curmudgeon has returned to his penny-pinching ways … and he’s suing the ghost of his former partner and the three phantoms for mental distress from the previous year’s visitation. 8 p.m.

Dec. 16-17 and 2 p.m. Dec. 18, First United Methodist Church Theatre, 1506 E. Wooster St., Bowling Green. $8-$10. (419) 352-9337, (419) 575-2259 or www. blackswampplayers.org.

Blow Your Own Holiday Bulb Larry Mack of Lars Glass Originals will help participants create their own tree decorations; no experience is necessary. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 17, Firenation Glass Studio and Gallery, 7166 Front St., Holland. $40. (419) 866-6288 or www.firenation.com.

“The Mystery of the Christmas Star” This star show will offer a scientific explanation for the star the wise men followed to find Jesus thousands of years ago. 7:30-10 p.m. Dec. 17, Appold Planetarium, McAlear Hall, Lourdes University, 6832 Convent Blvd., Sylvania. $4-$5. (419) 517-8897 or www.lourdes.edu/appold.

n CALENDAR CONTINUES ON 16

Festive Flicks Santa’s Cool Holiday Film Festival Including “Santa Claus Conquers the Martians” and holiday shorts: Dec. 16-17, Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor. $6-$10. (734) 768-8397, (734) 668-8463 or www.michtheater.org.

“Miracle on 34th Street” 10 a.m. Dec. 17, Rave Motion Pictures, Fallen Timbers 14, 2300 Village Dr. West, Maumee. $5. (419) 8783898 or www.ravemotionpictures.com.

“Jingle All the Way” 10 a.m. Dec. 17, Rave Motion Pictures, Fallen Timbers 14, 2300 Village Dr. West, Maumee. Free with donation of nonperishable food items. (419) 878-3898 or www.ravemotionpictures.com.

“Santa Claus Conquers the Martians” Noon Dec. 17-18, Rave Motion Pictures, Fallen Timbers 14, 2300 Village Dr. West, Maumee, (419) 878-3898; and Franklin Park 16, 5001 Monroe St., second floor, Sylvania Avenue side; (419) 472-2324. $7-$7.25. www.ravemotionpictures.com.

“Christmas with the Kranks” 2 p.m. Dec. 18, Ritz Theatre, 20 S. Washington St., Tiffin. $3. (419) 448-8544 or www.ritztheatre.org.

“It’s a Wonderful Life” 2, 4:30 and 7 p.m. Dec. 18, Maumee Indoor Theater, 601 Conant St., Maumee. $5. (419) 897-8902 or www.greateasterntheatres.com/maumeehome.asp.

“Meet Me in St. Louis” 2 p.m. Dec. 18, Valentine Theatre, 400 N. Superior St. $5. (419) 242-2787 or www.valentinetheatre.com.

“The Shop Around the Corner” 1:30 p.m. Dec. 18, Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor. Free. (734) 768-8397, (734) 668-8463 or www.michtheater.org.

“A Christmas Carol” 4 p.m. Dec. 25, Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor. Free. (734) 768-8397, (734) 668-8463 or www.michtheater.org. O

“I can stand on my own without you.” — Eliza Doolittle, “My Fair Lady”

TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM / DEC. 14, 2011 n 15

16 n DEC. 14, 2011 / TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM

”I’ll have you know, Mr. Higgins’ intentions are entirely honorable!” — Col. Pickering, “My Fair Lady” n CALENDAR CONTINUED FROM 14

Steaks, Seafood, Signature Sandwiches and Burgers.

Breakfast with Santa A continental breakfast featuring cereals, yogurt, doughnuts and more will precede private photos with the big guy taken by moms and dads. 8:30-10 a.m. Dec. 17, Tamo-Shanter, 7060 Sylvania Ave., Sylvania. $8. Reservations: (419) 885-1167, ext. 317, or www.playsylvania.com.

Santa’s Workshop A variety of projects will be offered with free instruction for families or individuals to wrap up their giving lists.

Noon-2 p.m. Dec. 17-18, Bonita Bead Boutique, 215 Conant St., Maumee. Reservations: (866) 894-2323 or www.bonitabeadboutique.com.

LIVE MUSIC Every Friday & Saturday Night

Jul Fest Christmas Party The Scandinavian Club of Toledo will host this Nordic-style event featuring meatballs and herring, Glogg and Jarlsberg cheese, Santa Lucia and Christmas carols. 1-4 p.m. Dec. 18, Inverness Club, 4601 Dorr St. $35. Reservations: (419) 836-7637, tinyurl.com/ScandiClubofToledo or www.invernessclub.com.

Jolly Holiday Party

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Enchanted Entertainers will perform “Mrs. Claus and Ellie the Elf,” Northview High School’s Harmony Road Show Singers will warble, and visitors can decorate cookies, swig hot chocolate and maybe make some presents. 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Dec. 19, Sylvania Branch Library, 6749 Monroe St., Sylvania.

Registration: (419) 882-2089 or www.toledolibrary.org.

Holiday Craft Program Bobbi Crosson will help teens put together unique creations.

6:30-7:30 p.m. Dec. 20, Sanger Branch Library, 3030 W. Central Ave. (419) 259-5370 or www.toledolibrary.org.

Holiday Program

Art in

Ceramics by Ann Tubbs

the District

Holiday Discounts Open Mon-Fri 11-5 or by appointment

1700 Canton Ave., Suite 4

(Downtown Toledo)

419-349-5239

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

O Concert for Peace: 7 p.m. Dec. 18, $15.

O Crossroads Ceili, Bua, Nic Gareiss: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 29-30, $15.

O The Fred Eaglesmith Traveling Show: 8 p.m. Dec. 31, $27.50.

Bar 145

Sleigh rides

601 Monroe St. (419) 418-2339 or www.theblarneyirishpub.com.

O Nine Lives: Dec. 31.

Noon Year’s Eve

Bella's

The Ark

Visitors will be able to make gifts, visit with St. Nick, sing some karaoke and grab some nibbles. 4-8 p.m.

Dec. 20, Heatherdowns Branch Library, 3265 Glanzman Road. (419) 259-5270 or www.toledolibrary.org.

Get all Currier & Ives with a Clydesdale-drawn pull in sleighs (if there’s snow) or carriages through the 19th president’s estate. 1-4 p.m. Dec. 27-31, Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center, Spiegel Grove, Hayes and Buckland avenues, Fremont. $3. (419) 332-2081, (800) 998-7737 or www.rbhayes.org.

Ornaments by Mary Lane

Bright Spirits

BRIGHT SPIRITS

Families are invited to ring in the New Year at little early with juice toasts, a round of “Auld Lang Syne,” reZOOlutions, ice carving, crafts, demonstrations and more. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 31, Toledo Zoo, 2700 Broadway St. $8$11. (419) 385-4040 or toledozoo.org.

5304 Monroe St. (419) 593-0073 or bar145toledo.com.

O Neon Black: Dec. 31.

The Blarney Irish Pub

Blind Pig 208 S. First St., Ann Arbor. $3-$20. (734) 996-8555 or blindpigmusic.com.

O Ugly Sweater Xmas Party featuring Rad Rad Red, Nickie P., Abigail Stauffer, Nicole P’simer, Heroes on Parade, Prhyme Rhyme Boss, Chris Bathgate: 9:30 p.m. Dec. 23.

O The Bang!: 9:30 p.m. Dec. 31.

n CALENDAR CONTINUES ON 18

“Henry! What a disagreeable surprise.” — Mrs. Higgins, “My Fair Lady”

TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM / DEC. 14, 2011 n 17

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”The moment I make friends with a woman, I become selfish.” — Professor Henry Higgins, “My Fair Lady”

n CALENDAR CONTINUED FROM 16

O MightHaveBen, DiscOWE: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 31-1 a.m. Jan. 1.

9700 or reservations.metroparkstoledo.com.

Spicy Tuna

Homewreckers for the Holidays

7130 Airport Hwy., Holland (419) 720-9333 or spicy tunasushi.com.

O Karaoke: 10 p.m. Dec. 31-2 a.m. Jan. 1

This local band will rock the spirit with dinner and photos with Santa. 6-11:30 p.m. Dec. 17, the Pinnacle,1772 Indian Wood Circle, Maumee. $45. Reservations: (419) 891-7325.

Tequila Sheila’s Downtown

Christmas candlelight dinner

Cheers Sports Eatery

702 Monroe St. (419) 241-1118.

O Red and White Nite B4 the Nite B4 Christmas Party featuring best-dressed contests and performances by Let Me in Ent/Frost and Flames, Yound Royal, ROB, Maverick, Dre G, Mist a Hemp, Uno, AnnHann Forensic: Dec. 23, $3.

7131 Orchard Centre Dr., Holland. (419) 491-0990.

O Beg to Differ: Dec. 31.

The Village Idiot

A four-course French dinner with wine will be served up in the glow of the approaching holiday. 7 p.m. Dec. 20, One2 Lounge at Treo, 5703 Main St., Sylvania. $45, plus tax/tip. Reservations by Dec. 19: (419) 882-2266 or treosylvania.com.

Bronze Boar 20 S. Huron St. (419) 244-2627 or www.bronzeboar.com.

O Beg to Differ: Dec. 31.

Caesars Windsor Starting ticket prices are listed in Canadian dollars; attendees must be 19 or older. Caesars Windsor Colosseum, 377 Riverside Dr. East, Windsor, Ontario. (800) 991-7777 or www.caesarswindsor.com.

O Ultimate ’80s Dance Party: 9 p.m. Dec. 30, $20.

A publication of Toledo Free Press, LLC, Vol. 2, No. 50 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 Sarah Ottney, Special Sections Editor sottney@toledofreepress.com Jason Mack, Web Editor jmack@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 Rachel Richardson Julie Webster • Don Zellers

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

Renee Bergmooser, Sales Manager rbergmooser@toledofreepress.com Betty Jane (BJ) Rahn bjrahn@toledofreepress.com Casey Fischer cfischer@toledofreepress.com Chick Reid creid@toledofreepress.com DISTRIBUTION

(419) 241-1700 news@toledofreepress.com

Dégagé Jazz Café 301 River Road, Maumee. $5 weekends for cafe seating.

(419) 794-8205 or www.degagejazzcafe.com.

O Christmas with Cynthia Kaay Bennett: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 23.

O The B/Charmers: Dec. 30-31.

The Distillery 4311 Heatherdowns Blvd., (419) 382-1444 or www.the distilleryonline.com.

O Arctic Clam: Dec. 30-31.

Frankie’s 308 Main St. (419) 693-5300 or www.FrankiesInnerCity.com.

O AM Error holiday show: 9 p.m. Dec. 29, $5-$7.

O Boogaloosa Prayer: 9 p.m. Dec. 31, $10.

French Quarter J. Pat’s Pub Holiday Inn French Quarter, 10630 Fremont Pike, Perrysburg.

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

O The Late Show, Nightline Band, Green Eyed Soul: Dec. 31.

Grumpy Dave’s Pub Above the Easy Street Cafe, 104 S. Main St., Bowling Green.

(419) 353-0988 or www.grumpydavespub.com.

O New Year’s Eve karaoke party: 9 p.m. Dec. 31.

The Happy Badger 331 N. Main St., Bowling Green. (419) 352-0706 or www. happybadger.com.

O Elvish impersonators, with music by BGSU faculty: 1 p.m. Dec. 18.

Howard’s Club H 210 N. Main St., Bowling Green. (419) 352-3195 or www. howardsclubh.com.

O The Dumbeasies, WEe: 10 p.m. Dec. 25.

O ‘80s prom featuring DJBK: 8 p.m. Dec. 31.

Woodchucks

Gala New Year’s Eve Benefit Party

224 S. Erie St. (419) 241-3045.

O Choking Susan, the Dougouts, the Shame Game: Dec. 31.

A dinner/dance featuring music by the Duane Malinowski Orchestra will benefit the Toledo Police Museum in Ottawa Park. Appetizers, chicken and steak buffet, countdown couture, champagne and send-off snacks are included.

6:30 p.m. Dec. 31, Conn-Weissenberger American Legion Post 3587, 2020 W. Alexis Road. $60. (419) 450-5060, (419) 866-0665 or (419) 536-7606.

Yeeha’s 3150 Navarre Ave., Oregon. (419) 691-8880 or www. yeehas.com.

O New Year’s party: Dec. 31.

Adult Fare

Gifts of the Season

Seniors are invited to create a gift to give to nature: edible wildlife-friendly treats. 2-3:30 p.m. Dec. 14, Wildwood Preserve Metropark’s Window on Wildlife in the Metz Visitor Center, 5100 W. Central Ave. $2. Reservations: (419) 407-

Unforgettable New Year’s Eve Celebration 2012

The Dance Clinic will offer new steps, and LaScola Italian Grill will dish up its favorites. A cash bar, party favors, 50/50 raffle and audio/video feed live from Times Square will be featured, too. 7:30 p.m. Dec. 31-1 a.m. Jan. 1, Graystone Hall, 29101 Hufford Road, Perrysburg. $45-$55.

(419) 475-3055 or www.thedanceclinic.com. O

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

Mike Colbert today!

Get your car, truck or van now!

ICE Restaurant & Bar 405 Madison Ave. (419) 246-3339 or icerestaurantandbar.com.

O Alexander Zonjic holiday show featuring Thornetta Davis: 6 and 9 p.m. Dec.15, $15.

O Dave McMurray: 6-10 p.m. Dec. 22, $5.

O Dan & Don: 8 p.m. Dec. 30-31.

Manhattan’s 1516 Adams St. (419) 243-6675 or www.manhattanstoledo.com.

O Kyle Turner Christmas Trio: 7 p.m. Dec. 21.

O Alan Smith & the Blues All Stars: 9 p.m. Dec. 31.

Mickey Finn’s 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.

309 Conant St., Maumee. (419) 893-7281 or www. villageidiotmaumee.com.

O Super Fantastic New Year’s Eve Bash: Dec. 31.

602 Lagrange St. (419) 246-3466 or www.mickeyfinnspub.com.

O Decent Folk, Stonehouse: 9:30 p.m. Dec. 31, $5-$7.

One2 Lounge at Treo 5703 Main St., Sylvania. (419) 882-2266 or treosylvania.com.

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“I have to live for others now, not for myself. Middle-class morality.” — Alfred Doolittle

TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM / DEC. 14, 2011 n 19

20 n DEC. 14, 2011 / TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM

”It’s the new small talk. You do it so awfully well.” — Freddy Eynsford-Hill, “My Fair Lady”