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July 2007 Edition

 
 OHIO'S #1 MAGAZINE AND #2 TOURISM SOURCE ONLINE

   
FROM TOWN TO FARM
Experience 200 Years of Charm

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The towns are timeless and have names like Tipp City and Ludlow Falls, those passing through to speak or perform had names like Elvis Presley and Teddy Roosevelt, and anyone looking for an eclectic escape for vacationing discover the name “Miami County.”

Miami County is home to one of the nation’s marquee arenas for figure skating competitions, the largest contiguous produce farm East of the Mississippi, and one of the top mail-order gardens in the U.S.  Its heritage is deeply grounded in early 20th century aviation, nature preserves, and remnants of the 1800s.

In celebration of its bicentennial, 1807-2007, Miami County has come alive with past and present offerings to wow all those who travel to western Ohio.

A couple of noteworthy events are to take place in July.

The Miami County Bicentennial Homecoming Celebration is July 6-8 at the Miami County Fairgrounds. This free event pays tribute to all veterans of any conflict dating back 200 years, displays artifacts representing 200 years of achievement in business and industry, and highlights the heritage and culture through exhibits, live entertainment, music, food and fun. In addition to rides, games, crafts and other entertainment, the climax will be a spectacular laser light show.

The fairgrounds also play host to a special traveling show July 18-22 when World War II revisits Troy, Ohio in an exciting mix of education and entertainment under the name – Ohio Chautauqua! It is about history in its most compelling form – first person historical portrayals. Costumed scholars/performers are in character of historical figures as they perform living history beneath a vintage red and white striped Chautauqua tent. Meet FDR, and others to learn “first-hand” what it was like on the home-front and on the battlefield of WWII.

Throughout summer, Troy features Sculptures on the Square – Play Video – featuring replicas of WACO airplanes painted by artists to capture attention and imagination and tell another compelling story of Miami County heritage. It was inspired by the WACO aircraft legacy dating back to 1920. WACO (Weaver Aircraft Co.) produced open cockpit biplanes and WWII gliders until 1946. There are 26 of these 5’x5’ fiberglass sculptures creating a canopy as they are suspended overhead atop stands in what has become an outdoor art gallery.

But there’s more to Miami County than Troy.

In between attractions do a little barnstorming! Barnstorming was popular in the era of open cockpit biplanes that performed aerobatics over farmlands sometimes diving so low they nearly touched barn roofs. Today, the county’s aviation heritage is stitched to its farming culture in a patchwork of painted Barn Quilts. Dozens of barns are hand painted with true folk-art renditions of traditional quilt patterns, 8 X 8 foot squares, dotting the rural countryside between the towns and attractions.

And if that weren’t enough for your trip to Miami County, consider:

  • Unique shopping at the Whistle-stop Train Shop for train enthusiasts and Tippecanoe Frontier Trading Company for historical reenactment supplies and clothing from 1700-1900.

  • Dining that includes Asian and Mexican, bake houses and coffee houses, homemade candies and old-fashioned ice cream parlors.

  • Brukner Nature Center for 165 acres of wildlife, river, forest, hiking, birding and 1804 log house. The nature center offers many workshops, guest speakers, and other programming.

  • Hobart Arena where there’s been headlining musical and sporting entertainment for 55 years. It also has an indoor public walking track.

  • Fulton Farms for the agritourist and anyone who loves strawberries, fresh produce and pumpkins.

  • Eldean Covered Bridge, which once was Ohio’s 2nd longest. It was built in 1860 and is painted a picturesque red.

  • Idle Hour Ranch offers tours of its exotic animals such as a giraffe, camels, and llamas. It also has an aviary with 80 of the planets most colorful birds.

  • The 150-year-old Spring Hill Nursery. If you get the catalog like many Americans, it needs to description. If you don’t, you should.

  • Tipp Roller Mill and Theater is an 1839 grist mill turned theater featuring performances that entertain with Rag Time, Dixieland, Big band and Jazz music.

  • Small town merchants with rare wares and even rarer good-old-fashioned customer service with a smile.

  • Lock Nine of the historic Miami-Erie Canal.

  • History museums galore that include in their names – Fort Rowdy, Rossville, A.B. Graham, Tippecanoe, Piqua, Quaker, and John Scott Garbry.  

  • Architecture such as the Miami County Courthouse and the 1914 Troy-Hayner Cultural Center.

  • The grand old Hotel Fort Piqua.

  • WACO Museum and Aviation Learning Center featuring biplanes used in the early 20th Century.

  • The great outdoors including a section of The Buckeye Trail and plenty of rivers, fishing, and canoeing, waterfalls, prairies, and forest too.

  • Miami County Bikeway along the Miami-Erie canal.

  • And yes, there’s more.

What do you expect? This was 200 years in the making! Miami County – from town to farm, experience historic charm!  To learn more about Miami County’s attractions, heritage, or to get information about anything mentioned in this article, request a map, brochure or driving-tour directions to be mailed to you, visit www.visitmiamicounty.org or call Miami County Visitors & Convention Bureau at 1-800-348-8993.

By Frank R. Satullo
The OhioTraveler

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CONSTRUCTING UNUSUAL FUN

If you like to visit offbeat places, here’s one you won’t want to miss, especially if you have children who like playing in the dirt. Take the Liberty High exit into Bowling Green off Route 6 and drive about 2 miles into the country. Now, look to your left. There, emerging from the trees like a giraffe foraging for food, you’ll see the tip of a crane boom. A little bit further on, a sign at the head of a long gravel driveway signals that you’ve arrived at the National Construction Equipment Museum, one of NW Ohio’s most unusual attractions.   

The NCEM, established by members of the Historical Construction Equipment Association to preserve the history and equipment of the construction, surface mining and dredging industries, is guaranteed to thrill both junior and adult construction equipment enthusiasts. Be sure to bring your camera.  

The first thing you’ll probably notice is the aging and rusted pieces of equipment that dot the museum’s nine acres of land. Don’t worry, though, they haven’t been abandoned. Each piece is waiting patiently for its day (or more likely, months) of attention in the museum workshop, where volunteer enthusiasts from all walks of life spend every Wednesday night and one Sunday a month cleaning, dismantling, fabricating, painting, and restoring donated equipment to its former glory.  

Once a machine is finished, it is then moved into the museum, where hulking metal monsters arranged in displays will take you back to childhood days spent in the sandbox. The displays include signs packed with historical information, but you won’t need them if you get the pleasure of a tour conducted by museum archivist Tom Berry. After nine years with the museum, Berry seems to have almost everything at the tip of his tongue, and as he bubbles over with story after story, you can tell he loves what he does. 

Although enthusiasts come from all over the world to ooh and ahh over the museum’s contents, the museum isn’t just for sightseers. It has been the venue for several national conventions and is the production site of a quarterly magazine for enthusiasts, Equipment Echoes. The museum archives also hold an extensive collection of historical material, photos, slides, movies, and videos representing over 2,000 companies, including several from Ohio (among them Bucyrus-Erie, Euclid, and Marion Power Shovels), providing research material for a number of construction equipment history books.  

Several things not to miss: the cool wall of advertising signs at the museum entrance, both restored and original condition; the glass cabinet full of construction equipment toys and memorabilia by the musuem lobby’s front door; and the guest book, with signatures from visitors as far away as Australia and the UK. If you time it just right, you might even be able to take some pictures of your junior construction equipment enthusiast seated at the controls of one of the machines. However, do be sure to ask for permission first before allowing your children to climb on anything, to avoid injury to both your children and expensive equipment.   

Finally, when you get back outdoors, check out the patio, which is made up of bricks and pavers donated by supporters from all over. (My favorite was the one from New Zealand…) There’s a picnic table nearby, in case you brought your lunch, and even some dirt to dig in, in case someone brought a favorite construction toy. There’s also a pond, so be sure to keep an eye on the little ones.  

The National Construction Equipment Museum is located at 16623 Liberty High Road in Bowling Green, Ohio 43402. For further information, call 419-352-5616 or visit http://www.hcea.net. The museum is free and open to the public year round by appointment only; call ahead 24 hours to set up visit. 

By Betty Winslow

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ICONIC OHIO STORE
Is Everything Rubbermaid

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Nearly 14 years and millions of customers later, this restored 120 year old, four story building at the square of historic Wooster, Ohio still opens its doors daily to those seeking selection and savings for one of America’s most recognized brands-Rubbermaid. In addition to selection and savings, the store provides full-shipping services and a giant indoor playground. 

The store originally served as a laboratory to test customer response to new Rubbermaid products being manufactured in the nearby factory. The first such product was a patented rubber dustpan in 1933. Since then, Rubbermaid, now Newell-Rubbermaid remains a leader in developing cutting-edge technologies and products that have organized the lives of
nearly every American for decades.  

The store truly represents its name-Everything Rubbermaid- by offering the largest assortment of Rubbermaid products anywhere in the world. The 24,000 square feet of shopping has an enormous assortment of items that cannot be found anywhere else.  The product line has grown to provide something for everyone. The selection includes items from Irwin Tools, Sharpie, Shurline, Rubbermaid Commercial and, of course, the full line of Rubbermaid Home Products and Food Storage.  

On closer inspection, signs of a storied history appear throughout the store. For example, there are old air tubes that were used, by the sales clerks, to send payment from the customer up to the fourth floor to process the receipt for purchases and return change. Today, the tube system is used at Christmas time as a fun way for the children to send their Christmas lists to Santa at the North Pole and receive an instant reply and a treat. 

With new and different products comes, changes in the look of the store. Every visitor is instructed to start at the top and work their way down.  The top or 4th floor is “Bargain Land”. This wonderful world of savings features discontinued items and special purchases galore, with savings ranging from 30% to 50%.  The bargain merchandise, which is continually changing, makes each trip to the store a new adventure.   

The second floor features home organization, laundry and kitchen products, as well as a full line of cleaning items. The options seem as endless as the selection!  

The third floor is the only floor that houses non Rubbermaid Products. On the third floor there is a giant indoor playground where the children get a chance to try out the toys, expend some energy and make a lot of noise. The playground is surrounded by aisle after aisle of Little Tikes and Step2 toys. This floor also has mail boxes, boot trays and Garden Hoppers from Step2. 

The second floor features home organization, laundry and kitchen products, as well as the full line of Rubbermaid Cleaning items. The options seem as endless as the selection. 

The first floor features products for Rubbermaid Commercial, Rubbermaid Storage Sheds, toolboxes, tools, and painting supplies. 

This one of a kind store also makes shopping easier than ever by offering shipping for any and all items purchased. Everything Rubbermaid’s Mail Order Department serves the lower 48 states through phone and fax Orders. For questions or to place an order, call 330-264-7119 ext 5967 (Mon-Fri 9:30-4:30 EST) or email everythingrubbermaid@hotmail.com.   

Rubbermaid began as Wooster Rubber in 1920. The 5 businessmen who started the company by making toy balloons paved the way for Rubbermaid which had their fame grow to iconic proportions.  

Everything Rubbermaid is open Monday through Friday from 9:30 to 6:00, Saturday from 9:30 to 5:00, and Sunday from 12:00 to 5:00 all year round. The store is closed on major holidays. For visitor information call 330-264-7119 or see www.everythingrubbermaidstore.com.   

The Everything Rubbermaid Store and the many other Wooster Merchants welcome bus tours and has a convenient loading zone directly in front of the Everything Rubbermaid Store.

 

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THE WILDS
Carnivores & WildCamps

The Wilds, one of the largest and most innovative wildlife conservation centers in the world, announces the opening of its new Mid-Sized Carnivore Conservation Center.  

“The development of the Carnivore Center is an important milestone for the Wilds,” said Executive Director Dr. Evan Blumer. “It’s a critical step forward in our advancement of conservation efforts supporting rare and endangered carnivore species at our facility.” 

The first phase of the 60-acre facility has been supported by a combination of state, federal, and private funding.  

“It is the only facility of its kind in this country, maybe even the world, dedicated to mid-sized carnivores,” said Blumer. “The large enclosures support naturalistic group sizes and behaviors, and the facility’s design integrates the technical aspects of research with visitor experiences.”  

While work takes place to complete the center for its July 6 opening, Wilds visitors are welcome to depart a Safari Transport vehicle to preview the first cheetahs and African wild dogs now at the center.  

The Carnivore Center features elevated walkways and a second-story observation area for excellent viewing of the animals in large enclosures, each several acres in size.  

“Some species, like the cheetah, have particular difficulty breeding in captivity,” said Dr. Barbara Wolfe, director of Wildlife & Conservation Medicine. “We’re hoping that the placid, open spaces of the Wilds make them feel more at ease and improve breeding success in these spectacular animals.”  

Additional boardwalks, viewing platforms, and viewable animal management and research areas are currently in their final construction phase. Visitor amenities like restrooms and cold beverages and snacks are available at the site.  

“One of the exciting things we have planned is a cheetah run – a mechanical device with a cloth lure used to exercise the cheetahs,” said Dan Beetem, director of Animal Management. 

“We can have them run up to about 40 miles per hour for a few hundred yards,” said Beetem. “This stimulates the cheetahs both physically and mentally. They don’t get to do that in typical zoo settings.” 

The cheetah run will be demonstrated to the public for the first time during the July 6 opening. The opening celebration will also feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony with invited community leaders and Wilds staff. 

The Wilds is planning to add more cheetahs and its first group of dholes, a canine from Asia, in the near future. These additions will complete the first phase of the Wilds’ carnivore conservation program. 

Future Carnivore Center plans include the completion of 22 large animal enclosures, facilities for veterinary care, research and intensive animal management, and enhanced visitor amenities. 

The Mid-Sized Carnivore Conservation Center is one of four destination stops on the Wilds’ new Safari Transport shuttle system, which takes visitors through the Wilds’ unique open range habitat areas to view rare and endangered species such as rhinos, giraffes, and antelope. Other stops on the guided transport include the Lake Trail, Outpost, and Wetland area. 

Open-Air Safaris and Sunset Safaris are also available to visitors. Both include stops at the Mid-Sized Carnivore Conservation Center. 

The mission of the Wilds is to advance conservation through science, education, and personal experience. Located in southeast Ohio near Cumberland in Muskingum County, the Wilds is home to rare and threatened wildlife from around the world. 

General visitor hours for Safari Transport tours at the Wilds are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday in June, July, and August, and weekends only in September and October. Sunset Safaris are available by reservation every Saturday evening June through September.

WildCamps at The Wilds

Education, adventure, conservation, and summer fun are combined to create a variety of WildeCamp experiences for youth ages 8 to 19 at the Wilds.

Situated on nearly 10,000 acres in southeast Ohio, the Wilds offers a unique opportunity for campers to explore forests, wetlands, and prairie habitats while also encountering wildlife from around the world.

Campers stay at the Wilds’ unique yurt village. In addition to days of hands-on educational programs, each camper will experience the Wilds’ guided safari transport through the animal pastures for up-close observation of animals such as rhinos, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and other rare and threatened wildlife viewed in open-range habitats.

New this year, the Wild Vet Camp offers young adults ages 16-19 (10th grade to high school graduate) a chance to explore a career in veterinary medicine. Lab and field classes with veterinary and education staff at the Wilds will provide opportunities to get involved with wildlife conservation programs. Participants will learn about animal capture and diagnostic techniques, radio tracking, disease and health issues, and how the Wilds’ staff deals with some unusual animals. This camp takes place July 22-18.

Family Camp is also new this season, and offers a unique combination experience for families at both the Columbus Zoo and at the Wilds. It takes place Aug. 4-5 and Sept. 22-23.

Kritter Kids for ages 8 and 9 takes place August 7-11. These camps feature a one-to-six ratio of staff to campers and seek to develop a young child’s interest in the natural world.

Creature Corps for ages 10 and 11 offers a short session July 30 through Aug. 3, and long sessions July 8-14. These camps feature wildlife science programs and inspiration for youth to care for the world around them. The long sessions add adventures like rappelling and canoeing.

WildeCamp Xtreme for ages 13 through 16 offers a three-day back country backpacking experience at remote Wilds locations, along with some offsite traveling. It takes place Aug. 12-18.

Oikos is for campers age 16 through 19 who are interested in learning about becoming a professional naturalist or camp counselor. Participants must have attended a prior WildeCamp, and will assist Wilds naturalists at Creature Corps camps.

Fees for all camps include accommodations, meals, supplies and equipment, and a WildeCamp tee shirt.

Further information is available by visiting www.thewilds.org or call 740-638-5030.

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OUT OF THE ORDINARY ART

From cities to rural settings, Ohio’s Historic West offers an abundant variety of artistic exhibits.   

One such place, The Springfield Museum of Art, offers a fine collection of 19th & 20th century American & European art; seven galleries of changing exhibitions—at least 10 to 12 each year, and a gift shop of original & unusual artwork. A recently completed $3.8 million expansion resulted in a 35,000 square foot, state-of-the-art facility. A spacious special events center at the museum, equipped with a catering center, and dance floor, can be reserved for special occasions. Special events include Lunch on the Lawn, which provides the opportunity to enjoy musical entertainment by the Springfield Symphony Orchestra.    

Local artist and Ohio native, Mike Major, has created bronze sculptures for collections all across the country. Springfield is home to a walking tour featuring a series of ten larger than life monuments commemorating outstanding leaders of the Springfield/Clark County area. Contact www.springfieldart.museum or Springfield-Clark County VCB at 800-803-1553.  

While exploring Ohio’s Historic West, travelers will find themselves in some of the most charming villages and towns.  One such town is Versailles. On permanent display is The Sculptural Village of Versailles, which consist of twelve life sized sculptures plus a unique, historical arch and brick wall.  Many are located in the downtown area, which gives one the feeling of stepping back to a more simple time in life. The Sculptures depict people engaged in everyday activities such as playing golf, jumping rope, swinging on a swing, playing ball, reading a book with a friend and playing musical instruments. The newest sculpture on display is Monet sitting in front of his  easel painting a portrait. Visitors will marvel at the life-like qualities and superb workmanship. While you are in this lovely village, enjoy lunch or dinner at the award-winning Inn at Versailles. Experience world-class cuisine in a French-country atmosphere. Also, take time to tour the Winery at Versailles. Sample several of their award winning wines. For more information, contact the Darke County Visitors  Bureau, 800-504-2995; www.discoverourlegends.com.  

Sculptures on the Square, a semi-annual event hosted by Troy Main Street, Inc. returns in 2007 but this time with a different twist.  The 2007 exhibit will feature “Sculptures Takes Flight”, which honors the historic WACO aircraft, displaying 25 replicas of the open cockpit biplane, each with a different design and theme, created by local and regional artists. The sculptures will grace the sidewalks of the lovely, historic business district in the town square of downtown Troy. WACO airplanes, one of the all time great American aircraft ever built, were manufactured from the 1920s - 40s in Troy and at one time, WACO was the largest producers of aircraft in the world.  Most will recognize the famous barnstorming/aerobatic style plane, popularized by pilots flying in exciting and daring stunt performances.  Sculptures will be on display from mid-May through September. For more information contact:  Miami County VCB at 800-348-8993; www.VisitMiamiCounty.org or www.troymainstreet.org.  

The Dayton Art Institute, one of the nation's finest mid-sized art     museums, features more than 20,000 objects spanning 5,000 years of art history. This beautiful 88-year-old building is on the National Register of Historic Places. Highlights include the museum's outstanding Asian collection, 17th century Baroque paintings, 18th and 19th century American art and contemporary art collection. In addition to its diverse collection, the museum features world-class special exhibitions, a wide variety of educational programs and an interactive, family-oriented Experiencenter gallery. It is in Dayton, Ohio and open 365 days per year. Phone 800-296-4426. Group tours of The Dayton Art Institute's permanent collection are free. However, prices vary for group tours of the museum's special exhibitions. Advance reservations are required.For more information please contact: 937- 223-5277 ext. 337 or visit www.daytonartinstitute.org.   

The history of St. Marys, from its beginning as a fort to prosperity as a canal town to the present day, is depicted in vivid imagery in the mural “Traces of St. Marys”. The large art pieces grace the wall of  Heritage Park in downtown St. Marys.  

New Bremen Artist Dan Keyes spent nearly a year researching and painting the three intricate mural pieces. A narrative brochure is provided that explains the many images and how they pertain to the history of the area.  The mural serves as a focal point in the park that is designed with German and Japanese influences to honor St. Marys’ two sister cities. For more information, contact the Auglaize/Mercer CVB at 800-860-4726; www.seemore.org.  

Quilts on barns?  What an unusual idea! Relax, unwind, and experience yesteryear as you travel the beautiful countryside in this unique driving tour of Champaign and Miami Counties. Both counties currently have 17 Barn Quilts on their tours, with many more in the making. The Barn Quilt concept was started as a way to bring visitors to experience all that each community has to offer. Designed to highlight the agricultural heritage as well as the important folk art of quilting, the Barn Quilt Tour features large, painted renditions of traditional patchwork quilt blocks hung or painted on the sides of barns, a growing trend that has captured the spirit of heritage tourism.  While connecting the rural countryside and our lovely historic downtown communities with a colorful array of painted Barn Quilts, the tour provides a new and exciting way for visitors to enjoy the beauty and simple elegance of our countryside as they make their way from town to town.  Map brochures will be available for those interested in taking the tours. For more information, contact Miami County Visitors & Convention Bureau 800-348-8993, or Champaign County Visitors Bureau at  877-873-5764. 

For more information about Ohio’s Historic West itineraries, please go to www.ohioshistoricwest.com. 

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FESTIVALS & EVENTS

An Old-Fashioned July 4th Celebration & Parade
(Admission is free) 

  • When: July 4, 2007 from 12:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

  • Location: Hamilton, Ohio

  • Phone: 513-863-1717

 “A Slice of Hometown America” begins with one of Ohio’s most impressive Fourth of July parades featuring over a hundred floats, marching bands, organization representatives and prominent citizens. Meanwhile, “A Taste of Hamilton” offers delicious food samplings from area restaurants. Afterward, live vocal and band concerts are staged throughout the day on the Courthouse Green, along with face-painting and clowns for the kids. And at dusk, a rousing Rozzi fireworks display takes place over the Great Miami River, thus presenting a glorious patriotic finish to a full day of fun. Visitors are welcome.

AAFRO Festival

  • When: July 5-6, 2007

  • Location; Elyria, OH

  • Phone: 440-366-3244

The annual AAFRO (African-Americans for the Respect of Others) Festival is one of the biggest festivals in Ohio. The festival promotes diversity and family unity. The AAFRO Festival is an interpersonal tool that provides an opportunity to help each culture celebrate its beauty, uniqueness, and contributions to today's society and bring them all into the Iron Castle. The AAFRO Festival will have two days of events, featuring an Underground Railroad tour, recreational activities and performances, guest speakers and workshops.

Fostoria Glass Heritage Festival
(Admission is Free) 

  • Open: July 6-7, 2007

  • Location: Downtown Fostoria

  • Phone: 419-435-0486

The festival will hold a 5k run sponsored by Total Rehab.  There will be a car show sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce.  This festival also features various historical reenactments as well as some old-fashioned games, live entertainment, and a street magician. 

Summer Festival of the Arts
(Admission is Free) 

  • When: July 7 and 8, 2007

  • Location: Youngstown Ohio at Youngstown State University

  • Phone: 330-941-2307

  • Web: www.ysu.edu/sfa

The Summer Festival of the Arts, July 7 and 8 at Youngstown State University in Youngstown, Ohio, is a true celebration of the visual and performing arts. Welcoming over 60 local, regional and national artists, the event draws over 15,000 people to the park-like campus. In addition to the artists’ marketplace, dozens of music, theater and dance performances occur and activities are planned by local museums and churches. An ethnic fair, 5K run and children’s activities add to the excitement of this two-day event. Admission and parking are free to the Summer Festival of the Arts. More information is available at www.ysu.edu/sfa.

Forte on the 50~Music and Fireworks
(Tickets are available by calling 330-941-7170 or logging on to www.ysu.edu/forte)

  • When: Saturday, July 7

  • Location: Youngstown Ohio at Youngstown State University

  • Phone: 330-941-7170

  • Web: www.ysu.edu/forte 

The mid-point of the festival brings Forte on the Fifty to the campus on Saturday evening, July 7, complete with national recording country fusion artists Carolina Rain and a spectacular fireworks display sponsored by BJ Alan Phantom Fireworks. This event is held at the University’s football stadium and features general admission and premium field seating.

Car Show & Swap Meet 

  • When: July 7, 2007

  • Where: Historic downtown Loudonville, Ohio

  • Call: 419-938-7411or 419-994-4789

Rated the second best in the top-10 nationwide downtown events by Cruisn Times Magazine, this car show has become a swap meet. Enjoy more than 500 cars that will come rolling into town for the day. Listen to the "Back by Popular Demand" Remember When Band! or enjoy "Sunny Rich" Elvis Impersonator, or even the Sweeney Family Band. A great event for the whole family! Also enjoy a new addition to this year’s car show - A Swap Meet!

Wooster Arts Jazz Fest
(Admission is Free) 

  • When: Sunday, July 8, 2007

  • Where: Wooster, OH 44691 (On the square in Historic downtown Wooster at the intersection of Liberty and Market Streets)

  • Phone: 330-262-6222

  • Web: www.woosterartsjazzfest.org

This day-long festival features art, fine craft, jazz, quality food, a traditional New Orleans-style parade, and free children’s arts activities. The purpose of this festival is to celebrate the arts, provide sales opportunities for artists, and promote economic development in downtown Wooster.

Enjoy music throughout the day in front of the gazebo on the square. Bring your umbrella, or use the umbrellas provided, and join in the New Orleans-style parade! The 2005 WAJF juried art show featured 50 exhibitors from around Ohio that were enjoyed by over 3,000 visitors. The 2006 festival will feature over 80 exhibiting artists. Enjoy free children’s activities provided by art teachers and students from area schools. These activities will take place in the parking lot in front of Everything Rubbermaid, located in the southwest quadrant of the Wooster square.

Crooksville – Roseville Pottery Festival
(Admission is Free)  

  • When: July 12 - 15, 2007

  • Location: 7327 Ceramic Road NE in Roseville, OH  43777

  • Phone: 740-697-7021

This annual event features pottery demonstrations, blacksmithing jewelry making, woodcarving, quilting, rug making, basket weaving, etc.  Artwork is from all over Ohio. The event also has food, games, entertainment and a car show.

LaGrange Street Polish Festival
(Admission is Free)  

  • When: July 13-15, 2007

  • Location: LaGrange Street between Central and Mettler Streets in Toledo

  • Phone: 419-255-8406

See a city street transform into an authentic ethnic festival celebrating its Polish community’s culture and traditions. Polka dancing and music are provided. In addition, there are plenty of children’s activities rides, crafts, polka contest and plenty of ethnic food.

LilyFest
(Admission is Free) 

This festival will hold over 60 local artists displaying and selling their work.  The event is held on 3 acres of professionally designed gardens, ponds, and sculptures and will have professional horticulturists selling plants.  The event will also feature musical entertainment in the form of bagpipers, dulcimers country, and Appalachian musicians.

Chagrin Valley Jumper Classic

  • When: July 14-22, 2007

  • Location: Cleveland Metroparks Polo Field, Moreland Hills, Ohio

  • Phone: 440-708-0013 or 330-903-9915

The Merrill Lynch Hunter Jumper Classic is a nationally recognized horse show held annually at the Cleveland Metroparks Polo Field in Moreland Hills.  

Ingenuity Festival Of Art And Technology
(Much of it is FREE, but unlimited access to performances and exhibits is $10) 

Cleveland is filled with ingenuity and art when more than 70 organizations and about 1,000 arts and technology groups come together for the unique festival that is celebrated throughout downtown Cleveland’s streets, alleys and performance venues. It has Opera in the Alley, fireworks, piano competitions, virtual entertainment, and many amazing, innovative and bizarre acts and exhibits. 

Columbus Jazz And Rib Fest
(Admission is Free)  

  • When: July 20-22, 2007

  • Location: Columbus, Ohio (Downtown Riverfront)

  • Phone: 614-645-3800

Fire up your taste buds with award winning ribs from all around the country and then go from hot ribs to cool jazz at this smoke’n summertime traditional event. It is definitely a popular attraction as 500-700 thousand people flock to the aroma of tasty sauce and the sound of tasty-tunes. Live music is provided by nationally known artists and headlining local performers featured on two stages.

Mardi-Gras Festival
“Festival Of The Jester”  

  • When: July 21, 2007

  • Location: Sandusky Bay Pavilion, 605 E. water Street in Sandusky, OH

  • Phone: 419-627-5986 

This festival will be featuring both southern style and traditional food.  The event will also feature live music from Colin Dussault’s Blues Project and The Swamp Boogie Band.

Criterium Bicycle Races
Troy Classic On The Square July 21, 2007
and Miamisburg’s Tour d’Burg July 22, 2007
(Admission Free for spectators) 

For more information about the Troy Classic On The Square, call 937-339-5455 or visit www.troymainstreet.org. For more information about Miamisburg’s Tour d’Burg, call 614-529-4268 or visit www.myburg.com. Each web site provides detailed information about racing classes, starting times, distance, awards, etc.

Criterium or “crit” bicycle races are run on downtown city streets with hairpin turns over a short distance. This means spectators can get up close and personal to the action and see spectacular wipeouts. Crashes are pretty common in criterium races because dozens of racers frequently pack together as they cruise at 30 MPH or faster allowing only the most agile and experienced to navigate through successfully. This is one of the reasons why this form of bicycle racing has fast become an American favorite. Cyclists enjoy the challenging track conditions and crowds love the action…and crashes. Thankfully, most mishaps result in nothing more than road rash.

The thrill of the criteriums is only part of the draw to these two historic downtowns. All shopkeepers will be keeping their stores open, restaurants will be serving folks day and night and food vendors will be at the events. Other activities surrounding the events include family fun rides, children’s activities, BMX demonstrations, and even a rock wall to climb.

Howard Chandler Christy Art Show (Outdoor)
(Admission is Free)  

  • When: July 28-29, 2007

  • Location: McConnelsville, Ohio At the "Grove" at 10th and Main St. (Rt.60)

  • Phone: 740-962-5642 or 740-962-2489

All art mediums welcome. Amateur and Prof. (Non-juried.) $ entry fee.  Food, music, parking, free to the public. Saturday registration is 7:30-10:30. Judging begins 11am Saturday. Art auction 2pm Sunday, and awards ceremony at 4 pm (Cash and ribbon awards given). Howard Chandler Christy was a world famous illustrator of the early 1900's born in Morgan County near McConnelsville, Ohio. Christy 's well known works include the painting of the "Greenville Treaty", "Signing of US. Constitution," Naval recruitment posters, and the "Christy Girls." Join us under the trees.

Click here for additional festivals and events throughout Ohio

 

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July Festivals & Events

Iconic Store is Ohio Original

Constructing Unusual Fun

Carnivores & WildCamps

Ingenuity Dazzling All Senses

Midwest Haunters & Fantasy

Beach Gone to the Dogs

Out of the Ordinary Art

Play It Again - Special Features

GraveQuest: TimeTravelers

Main Travel Directory

Editor-In-Chief: Frank R. Satullo

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INGENUITY
 Dazzling All Senses


 Die Audio Gruppe’s Audio Ballerinas

Hear the sound of 1,000 drums. Listen to live jazz - hip hop - techno - folk. See opera and theater. Watch dancers from around the globe step dance - break dance - ballet. Take in poetry slams - stilt walkers - jugglers - interesting parades. Enjoy food - flowers - activities for kids. See it all transformed by technology.

Welcome to Cleveland's third annual Ingenuity Festival where art meets technology. The 2007 Festival Village will encompass downtown's Playhouse Square District. The activities are July 19-22, 2007. It includes world-class artists presenting original works alongside performing and visual artists. The Palace Theater will be transformed into the Space Palace with a gaming gallery and interactive video games. Don't miss the live performances from Troika Ranch, the world's most acclaimed dance/technology ensemble.

In all, more than 1,000 individuals and 90 organizations are participating.

Ingenuity Co-Founder and Executive Director, James Levin, has a grand vision for this year’s festival. "The ‘07 festival will be a pivotal one. With such partners as Playhouse Square, CSU and Ideastream the Ingenuity Festival can achieve its mission of showcasing the best of the creativity from the region's arts and culture community and its research and technology community. This is the year where we become a true arts and technology festival. This is the Festival that Ingenuity will define itself and achieve a regional profile. It’s creativity and innovation. It’s Ingenuity." 

This year’s partnerships with Playhouse Square, CSU and Ideastream have inspired and cultivated numerous collaborations with international, national and local artists. 

President of Playhouse Square Foundation, Art Falco is excited to partner with this year’s Festival. "The theater district is a growing community of technology based businesses, including the Idea Center. That combined with our theaters makes Playhouse Square the heart of arts and technology in Cleveland, which makes us the perfect place for Ingenuity Festival. In the spirit of Ingenuity, we're excited to celebrate a festival that combines music, artists and culture driven by technology inspiring creativity and imagination." 

These collaborations are best represented by several partnerships that will be presented through dance. Germany’s Die Audio Gruppe, whose audio uniforms consist of “electroacoustic” clothes and dresses that generate sounds by “interacting with their environment” will partner with local Inlet Dance Theater to present their Audio Ballerinas and Audio Geishas. Additionally, MorrisonDance will join with NASA Glenn Research Center to present Walking onOther Worlds at the Palace Theatre. Dancer and choreographer Sarah Morrison will appear in a short film created by NASA Glenn featuring walking patterns on earth, leaping into “weightlessness”, landing on the moon, and dancing on Mars. 

The Idea Center will be transformed into a Mecca for digital art. Steve Dietz – the founding Director of New Media Initiatives at the Walker Art Center, in Minneapolis has curated a group of world renowned artists to present their work in this venue including French artist Marie Sester’s interactive “BE[AM],” Eddo Stern’s kinetic sculptures, and Natalie Bookchin’s city symphony seen through the lens of security web cameras. These artists will be joined by work from John F. Simon, presented by MOCA, and recent CIA graduate Samantha Schartman. 

On the doorstep of the Idea Center, at the intersection of East 14th Street and Euclid Avenue, the Plain Dealer/cleveland.com Mainstage will feature music and performances from all genres. In addition to Rock’n’Roll Hall of Fame inductee Grandmaster Flash, festival-goers will be treated to Digital Worlds Institute’s live, synchronous performances by percussionists from different locations throughout Ohio and the United States – all projected onto large screens. Other performances include Opera Cleveland, Britain’s May7ven, Lake County’s The Girls, and a Gospel Spectacular followed by fireworks. 

Other Festival highlights include the world premiere of “The Fire Inside: The Story and Poetry of Nikki Giovanni” directed by Karamu’s artistic director Terrence Spivey. Ingenuity’s Space Palace (located in the Palace Theatre) will feature “In the Shadow of the Moon” – a film that won the World Cinema Audience Award: Documentary at the 2007 Sundance Film Festival. At the Ingenuity Festival, there is certainly something for those of all ages with a multitude of attractions for families and children including activities and performances from the Cleveland Children’s Museum, Cleveland Metroparks, Cleveland Municipal School District, Cleveland

Public Library, the Flying Bernouilli Brothers, the Great Lakes Science Center and African-American Community Ensemble. 

An Ingenuity Passport will give you access to all of our exciting, ingenious events. Passports can be purchased at www.ingenuitycleveland.com, in person at the State Theatre Ticket Office or by phone at 216/771-8403. An Ingenuity Day Passport, providing access to all Ingenuity events for that day, can be purchased for $5. An Ingenuity Festival Weekend Passport, providing access to all events for the four-day Festival, can be purchased for $15. Children under 12 get in Free. Ingenuity Passports sponsored by Time Warner Cable. For more information visit www.ingenuitycleveland.com.

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BEACH GONE
TO THE DOGS

The dog park at Alum Creek State Park in Delaware County was recently noted as hosting America's "best dog beach" for 2007 by the DogChannel.com Internet site.

The dog park is located on four acres along Alum Creek Reservoir off Hollenback Road, near the state park marina.

DogChannel.com recognized the facility as one of the 10 best dog parks in America for 2007, but focused special attention on its river rock beach area that "beckons water-loving dogs to take a dip."

It was the second honor in less than a year for the new facility, having received the 2006 Award of Excellence from the Ohio Parks and Recreation Association last fall.

Completed in 2006 with private donations and labor provided by Alum Creek State Park volunteers, the dog park was the first of its kind constructed in Ohio State Parks. The grounds include the fenced beach, as well as two additional fenced areas for small and large dogs. Waste collection bags are provided at several stations in the park. There are also drinking fountains and restrooms for the convenience of owners and handlers.

Several projects are under consideration for the facility, including: lighting to extend the hours the park can be open in the fall, winter and spring; a dog wash station; and another entrance to the large dog area from a second parking lot.

Other top 10 dog parks recognized by DogChannel.com were located in Gilbert, Arizona; Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Richmond and Roseville, California; Freeport, Illinois; Goshen, Indiana; Seattle, Washington; Covington, Kentucky and Ossining, New York.  Additional information about the Alum Creek Dog Park, as well as driving directions and rules for using the facility, are available at http://alumcreekdogpark.com/.

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MidWest
Haunters & Fantasy


 Scariest Woman Contest

Do you know the scariest woman in the Midwest? If so, tell her to head to Columbus!

The Midwest Haunters Convention is looking for the scariest woman in the Midwest. For the past several years, the annual event has hosted some of the most frightening characters imaginable competing on stage. The Pageant was rated by AOL Online as a Top 13 Freaky Attraction in the US; Fall 2006.  It will be held on Saturday, July 14th at the Doubletree Hotel I-270 in Worthington, Ohio.

Ms. Midwest Haunt will receive over $300 in cash and prizes while the first runner up will scare up over $100 in cash and prizes. Applications are available online at www.MidwestHaunters
Convention.com. A panel of haunted attraction industry judges will select the most frightening, intimidating and scariest woman in the pageant.

Midwest Haunters Convention and Fantasy is July 13 – 15, 2007 in Worthington, Ohio at the DoubleTree Hotel.

The Midwest Haunters Convention (MHC) is a weekend event for Haunted Attraction Producers, Actors, and Home Haunters. The MHC goal is to provide educational seminars and workshops with experienced presenters as well as a place to socialize with others in the industry during unique social activities.  The Midwest Haunters Convention is sponsored by Scareparts.

The festivities feature the Scareparts Masquerade Party with “Crazy Bob” Turner as Master of Ceremonies.  A Halloween Fantasy Body Art Fashion Show will be hosted by the U.S. Body Painting Festival will start the show. Hundreds of costumed characters from around the country will attend the party.

The Scareparts Midwest Masquerade Party will have dancing, food, entertainments and costume contests and will feature the infamous Ms Midwest Scary Pageant.  There will be talent contests for participants. It will be a quite a unique Costume Party!  

A new Midwest Fantasy Show (MFS) will debut this year in conjunction with the MHC.  The MFS celebrates family entertainment including professional Makeup Artists, Face and Body Painters, Airbrush Artists, Henna, Magicians, Balloon Twisters, and more. The Midwest Fantasy Show features Seminars and Workshops designed to appeal to a variety of audiences including artists, entertainers and business owners. The Midwest Fantasy Show is sponsored by the U.S. Body Painting Festival.

The Midwest Fantasy Show is an adult-oriented convention for family entertainment professionals including professional Makeup Artists, Face and Body Painters, Airbrush Artists, Henna, Magicians, Balloon Twisters, and more. 

The Midwest Haunters Convention Tradeshow will offer attendees an expanded selection of professional quality makeup and other products and services from new major vendors at the Trade Show this year including Silly Farm, Amerikan Body Art and the U.S. Body Painting Festival.  Returning MHC vendors include the Wolfe Brothers, Bloody Mary and Pashur.  

The addition of the Midwest Fantasy Show Social Events will combine professional elements of horror, fantasy and fun and are expected to be quite sensational! The Midwest Fantasy Show expands the selection of expert makeup, entertainment and business workshops and seminars being also made available at the Midwest Haunters Convention and is designed to appeal to a variety of audiences including artists, entertainers and business owners.   It is geared to the flip side of the business of being scary but offers useful haunt applicable education and great entertainment!   Classes include makeup, henna, magic, costuming, balloon twisting and much more.  

There will be a Friday the 13th Welcome Makeup Artist and Entertainers Jam Session (on 7/13/07 at the Doubletree Hotel-Worthington) presented by the U.S. Body Painting Festival. Guests will be entertained at a reception featuring a practice jam session for makeup, and other artists and entertainers. 

Both major industry events will draw top talents in from around the country to Columbus, Ohio- creating unique education, social and shopping opportunities!  Weekend registration is $79 for Saturday and Sunday Seminars for combined Midwest Haunters Convention and Midwest Fantasy Show seminars.  For more information, please visit