Going out         Dreamchaser Tour: Pop superstar Jessica Simpson belts out a few in an evening full of music with the female quintet Eden's Crushand Contemporary Christian boy band Plus One. 5 p.m. today, Paramount's Kings Island's TimberWolf Amphitheater, $29.99-$39.99 includes park admission. 562-4949.

        All About Kids: This super-sized expo for kids of all ages — meaning it's parent-friendly — shows off big toys, computers, sporting activities, character appearances and more. Noon-6 p.m. today,Albert B. Sabin Convention Center, downtown, $7, $3 children. 684-0501.

        Black Family Reunion: Last call for African-American fellowship and cultural celebrations with food booths, educational exhibits and gospel music by Anointed Sons of God and Allen & Allen. Noon-10 p.m. today, Sawyer Point, downtown. 742-9378.

        Jazz: Local faves Ann Chamberlain and Eddie Morgan uncork some mighty smooth jazz for the Jazz at the Museum concert series. 2-5 p.m. today, Cincinnati Art Museum's Great Hall, free. 721-2787.

Staying In

        TV picks: Placido Domingo stars in the Washington Opera production of Le Cid (9 p.m., Channels 48 and 54), the 1885 opera about an 11th century Spanish hero.

        • TV Critic John Kiesewetter also says Channel 48 repeats the Bill Moyers Special: Joseph Campbell and the Power of Myth (1 p.m. today and next Sunday).

What's in stores today

        Retro boom: Boom boxes go retro with Emerson's new CD Cruiser line. Chrome accents and a choice of six high-gloss colors give the things the “yesterday” look that's all over the fashion world today. Available in boom boxes ($84.95), personal CD player ($74.95) and CD/clock radio ($59.95). Available in most electronics departments, but call (800) 898-9020 if you can't find one. Or go to www.emersonradio.com.

Planning Ahead

        24 hours out: The German speaking — but not oom-pah singing — Carinthia Male Chorus from Millstadt, Austria, unloads a freebie on Fountain Square with a little help from New Jerusalem Baptist Church Male Chorus and Kenny Smith's Peace and Serenity Ministries.Noon-1 p.m. Monday, free. 556-6017.

        48 hours out: Kentucky author Bobbie Ann Mason's new one goes Zigzagging Down a Wild Trail. She'll pop in to sign and discuss it this week. 7 p.m. Tuesday, Joseph-Beth Booksellers, Rookwood Pavilion, Norwood. 396-8960.

        72 hours 'til Wednesday: The UniverSoul Circus and its troupe of magicians, aerialists, limbo dancers and more begin a five-day stand at Swifton Commons. 7:30 p.m., Reading Road and Seymour Avenue, Roselawn, $10-$25. 562-4949.

        Contact Jim Knippenberg by phone: 768-8513; fax: 768-8330; e-mail: knipenquirer@yahoo.com.

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