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Archives for December 2010

Goodbye Wympee, Hello Olive! : [Photos] Part 1

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Olive owner Kimberly Collett busts up the old flooring in the former Wympee location on Third St. The new urban eatery is slated to open up in January.

Kimberly Collett, owner of Olive, an urban dive, and her chef Matthew DeAngulo have just completed gutting out the building for their new downtown Dayton restaurant.  Here’s a sneak peek at the early stages of demolition:

[album: http://www.daytonmostmetro.com/wp-content/plugins/dm-albums/dm-albums.php?currdir=/wp-content/uploads/dm-albums/Olive 1/]

We’ll continue to chart the progress of renovation here at DaytonMostMetro.com.  In the meanwhile, check out Olive’s facebook page and stay tuned!

Christmas Cookies – The Truly Secret Ingredient

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In our family, there is really only one kind of cookie, and their appreciation is not relegated to only Christmas.  However, no Christmas would be complete without Mom’s sugar cookies – green frosted trees with m&m ornaments, yellow stars, bells and snowmen dressed with hats and buttons, that just beg for you to bite their head off.

Cookie baking is a tradition and traditions are most fun when they are being passed on to younger generations.  Cookie baking and little girls “licking the spoon” go hand in hand.  My first memories are of baking cookies with my mom, and my niece has been baking those same cookies every time she goes to Grandma’s house.   I always invite the youngest over during the big Christmas cookie baking extravaganza.  But the most special of cookies take years of tutelage before any female in our family is allowed to even consider trying to bake them herself.

The secret recipe is just as much a measure of patience and knowledge as it is ingredients.   Knowing just when to take the cookies out of the oven, lest they become crunchy.  Ensuring that the butter is soft but not so soft as to require the addition of more flour…. the proper thickness to roll the dough… how to keep them from getting too fluffy… how to store them when traveling, etc.  The lessons are many but the results are truly amazing.

Throughout my childhood these cookies moved mountains.  My brother used to sell or barter them at school.  I am certain that they were the reason I was invited to go to the “popular” girl’s birthday party in seventh grade.  They may have even played a role in me getting a date to the dance (I can see it now… my brother probably said…. No, you can’t have any of these cookies, but I will let you take my little sister to the prom.)    My Mom… once lovingly referred to as “The Dragon Lady” at work is revered as “The Cookie Fairy” when she brings them to the office.  To this day, even my Dad will momentarily forget “The War” that was waged (aka the divorce) and smile when we get him one of mom’s cookies.  It takes us all back to happy moments.

When my parents were married, homemade baked goods were our family’s gift to extended family, neighbors and friends.  Everyone knew that mom had adapted the cookie recipe in a way that had far surpassed the basic ingredients of its origins.  Accompanied by a variety of goodies, the sugar cookies were always the crowning jewel of the gift.  For many years, I have continued the Christmas cookie tradition.

I have learned to identify the exact moment to take the cookies from the oven… but am blessed with a great oven that has extremely even and consistent heat.  So I set the timer.  I have been baking these cookies for 20+ years with my mom and could likely make her very proud.  They are consistently the right thickness, hardly ever too dry from flour, and usually travel well even with all of the frosting.

But something stops me… I make the cookies but skip the special ingredient.  I only make them occasionally.  While I am thrilled to have the knowledge, I am waiting my turn, patiently.  Mom is teaching the grandkids how to make the cookies.  My niece made her first attempt at home a few weeks ago, and while the flavor was great… she still has a few more years of learning left before they are perfected.  Mom has many years and lots of lessons to teach my daughter.   Sugar cookies are a rite of passage, but not one that should be a competition.  So I use my mom’s recipe – sans one ingredient change – and leverage all the tips and knowledge to make one heck of a sugar cookie.  I am content to know that nobody can really do it better than mom.  And because I am smart enough to acknowledge that, I am usually rewarded with a dozen cookies saved just for me.  YUM.

Oregon District holds its 2010 Candlelight Holiday Home Tour

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Dayton Ohio’s Oregon District is arguably the most well-known historic district in the area. The combination of vibrant entertainment and restored historic homes gives many Dayton visitors a reason to be at least somewhat familiar with the area. If you’ve never had the opportunity to look inside one of these gorgeous homes, the Oregon District’s Holiday Candlelight Tour is your chance!

Each of Dayton’s historic districts has a unique flavor, and the Holiday Home Tours are no different. The Oregon District Holiday Tour, held on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 7, 8 combines a home tour and a dinner at one of the Oregon Districts wonderful restaurants. *Please note, as of this writing, the dinner tours are full! But you can still participate in the home tours. Tour participants will gather at “The Meeting House” which is 23 Van Buren Street, and end with a dessert at one of the hosting homes. Tickets for the home tour only are $25.00, payable at the door. The tours will begin at 6:30 pm, 7:00 pm, 7:30 pm and 8:00 pm each evening. Call Eileen at 937-223-5607 for details and reservations.

Each home on the tour promises to give participants a unique glimpse of modern living in an historic setting at its finest. You visit the OD for fun and entertainment, now visit for the quieter side of life in Dayton’s oldest neighborhood, and first designated historic district.

Painting of Griswold Home by Loretta Puncer, used by permission of owner.

Holiday Film Series & More at THE NEON

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Hello Everyone.

This newsletter will be short and sweet. We’ve got 2 great films…and they’re both performing very well…so they’re gonna stick around. 127 HOURS and FAIR GAME were a great mix for us over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. If you still need to see either one, hurry on down!

The Downtown Holiday Festival will begin this year’s Children’s Holiday Film Series on Saturday! Films are FREE for children 12 and under…and only $2 for adults. This week’s selection is a film that is absolute magic on the big screen. Though not often thought of as a holiday film, MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS is a perfect film for the whole family – and how can you go wrong with Judy Garland singing the bittersweet American standard “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas?”
Here’s the full line-up:
Dec. 4 at Noon – MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS (“Clang, clang, clang went the trolley…”)
Dec. 11 at Noon – ELF (comedy starring Will Ferrell)
Dec. 18 at Noon – THE GRINCH (the beloved Dr. Seuss tale starring Jim Carrey)

December 1st  was World AIDS Day…a day to reflect on the lives of those who have passed from HIV/AIDS complications…and a day to remember that the fight isn’t over. New cases, especially in young demographics, are on the rise. THE RUBI GIRLS, known for their work with various HIV/AIDS charities, have unveiled their 2011 wall calendar – and they’re now available in our lobby. Calendars are just $20 each, and 100% of that amount will go to charities in the Miami Valley. If you still need a 2011 calendar…or you’re looking for a fun, unique gift…check out the calendar next time you’re here. Last year’s edition sold out, and this year’s edition is even more wonderful! If you’re an out-of-town subscriber to this newsletter, you can always visit www.arcohio.org to buy your calendar on-line – where 100% stays with AIDS Resource Center Ohio.
Special thanks to those of you who wrote to me upon hearing the story about The Rubi Girls during “All Things Considered” on WYSO.

We hope to see you very soon.

Take care,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for December 3 – December 9:

127 HOURS (R) 1 Hr 34 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30

FAIR GAME (PG-13) 1 Hr 48 Min
Friday: 12:20, 2:40, 5:00, 7:30, 9:45
Saturday: 2:50, 5:00, 7:30, 9:45
Sunday: 12:20, 2:40, 5:00, 7:30, 9:45
Monday – Thursday: 2:40, 5:00, 7:30, 9:45

MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS (NR) 1 Hr 54 Min
Saturday: 12:00 (noon)

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative. Some of these dates will change.

Dec. 10 THE GIRL WHO KICKED A HORNET’S NEST      Dec. 17 TAMARA DREW
Dec. 22 BLACK SWAN    Dec. 25 THE KING’S SPEECH     Jan. 14 MADE IN DAGENHAM

TBD: RABBIT HOLE

Farragut North Becomes Ides of March

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Beau Willimon - Playwright

In a surprising turn of events, the eagerly anticipated film adaptation of Brooklyn playwright Beau Willimon’s riveting political drama “Farragut North,” the winner of the 2005 Dayton Playhouse FutureFest, has a new name: “The Ides of March.”

Despite the darker yet catchier revamping, Willimon’s engrossing material, which brilliantly contains shades of David Mamet, still chronicles the downfall of an arrogant press secretary of a governor-turned-Democratic presidential candidate during the frenzied Iowa Caucus. According to Deadline.com, Oscar nominee Ryan Gosling (“Half Nelson”) will star as brazen hotshot Stephen Bellamy, a juicy role previously linked to such Hollywood heavyweights as Leonardo DiCaprio and Jake Gyllenhaal.

Joining Gosling, who appeared in “The Notebook,” “Lars and the Real Girl” and is currently garnering Oscar buzz for his performance in the indie hit “Blue Valentine,” will be Academy Award winner Marisa Tomei (“My Cousin Vinny”) as a New York Times reporter, Emmy Award winner Paul Giamatti (“John Adams”) as a rival campaign manager, and indie darling Evan Rachel Wood (“Across the Universe,” “Once and Again,” “Thirteen,” “The Wrestler,” “True Blood”) as a campaign intern.

In addition to directing “The Ides of March,” Academy Award winner George Clooney (“Syriana”) will appear as the aforementioned candidate and co-write the script along with Willimon and Grant Heslov. Clooney and Heslov’s script for “Good Night, and Good Luck” received a 2005 Oscar nomination for Best Original Screenplay.

“The Ides of March,” which has the potential to be a major contender at the 2012 Golden Globe Awards and Academy Awards, is inspired by Willimon’s service as a staff member within Howard Dean’s 2004 presidential campaign. Production is reportedly scheduled to begin in February in Michigan and Ohio.

“There will indeed be some shooting of ‘Ides of March’ in Ohio,” said Willimon, 33. “I have no idea what the shooting schedule is, or where, but it would certainly be cool if Clooney shot some scenes in Dayton!”

Willimon’s credits include the Hurricane Katrina-themed drama “Lower Ninth” and the gripping character study “Spirit Control,” an incredibly authentic account of an air traffic controller haunted by a tragedy.

From Christmas Past to Christmas Pageants… and FREE TICKETS!

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Childrens Theatres Explore the Holidays

Junie B Jones: Jingle Bells, Batman Smells

Junie B Jones: Jingle Bells, Batman Smells (Photo Credit Mike Long)

So often, we associate “children’s theatre” with “running around in big furry costumes spouting cutesy dialogue” (witty description per playwright Allison Gregory), and “Christmas shows” with the same old retellings of the Nativity or Nutcracker (as Dave mentioned Tuesday). But, we’re often too busy to even think of those types of theatre, let alone putting them together, for the holidays seem to come earlier every year (did Black Friday begin on Thursday…?) – sometimes it seems like ‘tis the season for selfishness and stress! This season, two theatres are surpassing those stereotypes and producing quality holiday productions for audiences of all ages, providing the perfect way for families to spend time together, enjoy themselves, and move beyond the overwhelming focus on gifts and wanting more.

Beavercreek Community Theatre’s A Christmas Carol and Town Hall Theatre’s Junie B. Jones: Jingle Bells, Batman Smells both open this weekend. While extremely different shows, both feature youth performers and share conceptual similarities: they may seem like lighthearted Christmas fare, and audiences of all ages will definitely laugh and enjoy themselves, but also walk away with a little something else to consider.

A Christmas Carol

A Christmas Carol (Photo credit: Diana Blowers)

Beavercreek Community Theatre’s Children’s Theatre presents Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol; the structure of this adaptation is unique because it features a “play-within-a-play,” exploring the famous allegory as a story passed down from grandfather to grandson when young Thomas struggles to understand the reason for giving hard-earned money away to the poor. As the traditional story goes and Thomas’ grandfather shares, visits to his past, present, and future teach Scrooge the loneliness of his selfish, stingy ways and inspire him to change his life.

Teresa Connair, who directs the 34-member cast of students ages 8 – 18, has worked with children’s theatre for over fifteen years and began the Children’s Theatre branch (a unique facet not shared by many of the

A Christmas Carol

A Christmas Carol (Photo Credit: Diana Blowers)

other Dayton theatres) at BCT five years ago. Along with performing in shows, students can participate in educational initiatives and classes at BCT, and help choose children’s productions; approximately half of the cast members have participated in BCT’s Children’s Theatre in some way before.

For this show, Connair has worked with the cast not only on scenes, but also on qualities important in life. She commented,

“We try and teach professionality to these kids, and how to develop a character, build a character, be real onstage – not just say lines, and I think they do an excellent job. They constantly surprise me, and that’s not easy to do.”

That training evidently is successful, for Connair stressed the professional quality of this production. That professionalism and the fresh angle to a familiar story both ensure A Christmas Carol is unique, excellent, and worth fitting into a busy holiday schedule.

Junie B Jones: Jingle Bells, Batman Smells

Junie B Jones: Jingle Bells, Batman Smells (Photo Credit: Mike Long)

Town Hall Theatre’s Landmark Children’s Theatre’s current production, Junie B. Jones: Jingle Bells, Batman Smells, also promises to entertain and impress. Some may remember THT’s well-loved and hilarious production last season of Junie B. Jones and a Little Monkey Business, exploring Junie B.’s kindergarten escapades; in Jingle Bells, Batman Smells, Junie B. is now in first grade and has grown up a little bit – this show features her parents less, and explores the relationships and events she deals with at school. Not only does Junie B. draw the name of May, her avid nemesis, for the school “Secret Santa” gift exchange, but both girls are required to perform together in the school’s holiday pageant.

Though many adults are unfamiliar with them, the Junie B. book series, by Barbara Park, is extremely popular with children; even if you have never heard of the books, however, the play and characters stand alone and will make sense. Junie B. reflects the lives and struggles of kids now, but adult audiences will also reminisce and remember the same things that the characters are encountering.  Playwright Allison Gregory, who was commissioned by Childsplay, Inc., to adapt the books for the stage, explained that the magic of the story and characters is how perfectly Park expresses the way kids think, “yet within that impulsive, boundless world, she builds a highly structured, meaningful story.”

Junie B Jones: Jingle Bells, Batman Smells

Junie B Jones: Jingle Bells, Batman Smells (Photo Credit: Mike Long)

Gregory’s adaptation and THT’s production align perfectly with this description, and the cast has had a lot of fun exploring it! Director Brittany Hayden-Hinkle, also THT’s Education Director, discussed how rewarding working with the kids has been:

“I really enjoy them as actors and just as people. Where else would you be discussing burp noises and what “squeeze a burp” should look like? The kids… bring an energy that is positively indescribable; they care so much about the shows they work on! And they never take themselves too seriously.”

Both A Christmas Carol and Junie B. Jones: Jingle Bells, Batman Smells will provide audience members with not only a great distraction from the consumerism and stress of the holidays, but a perfect way to go beyond our typical conceptions about the holidays and theatre to reflect on what’s truly important. Hayden-Hinkle expressed thoughts about Junie B. that reflects the depth of Christmas Carol as well:

“The show encourages kids to look past themselves during the holidays and reach out to those who need a little help. Sometimes the right thing is pretty hard to do but it’s always worth it in the end!”

So, this December, take your family or friends to see one of these two great children’s shows, and move beyond the typical conceptions, enjoying yourself and laughing in the process.

Tickets and Performance Information

A Christmas Carol: Beavercreek Community Theatre

December 3 – 12, 2010 – Fridays/Saturdays at 7:00 pm; Sundays at 3:00 pm
Call the Box Office at 937-429-4737 or visit Beavercreek Community Theatre!

Junie B. Jones: Jingle Bells, Batman Smells: Town Hall Theatre

December 3 – 19, 2010 – Fridays through Sundays (multiple performance times; check website!)
Call the box office at -937-433-8957 or visit Town Hall Theatre!

Or, check out the contest below…

Win Free Tickets!

Beavercreek Community Theatre, Town Hall Theatre, & onStageDayton on DaytonMostMetro.com have teamed up to give you a chance to win tickets to each of these shows!  We will be giving away up to five sets of four tickets total for the second or third weekends of these terrific shows! We have three sets for A Christmas Carol and two for Junie B. Jones. And since we’re giving away four tickets to each winner, your family can come together. All you need to do is:

  • Share this post on Facebook or Twitter…we’ll give away a set of tickets for every 10 ’shares’ on FB/Twitter, up to 5 groups of 4 tickets.  Just click on the appropriate button below, it’s that easy!
  • Leave a comment, answering the following question… Both of these shows center around the holidays and a spirit of togetherness… what is your favorite or most unique holiday tradition?
  • The deadline to enter is MIDNIGHT on TUESDAY, December 16th; tickets will be made available for the second (or third, for Junie B. Jones) weekends of the show.

    • ~KN

    SUBMIT PRESS RELEASES

    Would you like to submit theater news for DaytonMostMetro.com’s onStageDayton features?  Email Shane, Dave & Katherine at [email protected]

    Katherine Nelson is a senior theatre major at Cedarville University who focuses on performance, playwriting, and stage management. She’s the Literary Intern with locally basedEncore Theater Company, where contributors Shane Anderson and David Brush also work. The local theater company recently moved into the new arts collective space in the Oregon Arts District, along with Zoot Theatre Co & Rhythm In Shoes. Encore Theater Company has a mission to help develop new works of musical theater, most recently Next Thing You Know and The Proof, two new musicals in development.

    Tis The Season To Dine with Santa

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    If your children cannot stop talking about Santa Claus, you are not alone.  That’s why restaurants all over town have put together some special opportunities  to allow your kids to meet one of Santa’s helpers.

    But here’s a tip for you.  Don’t spring Santa on them. Let your child know they are going to meet a very special visitor. Ask them what they think Santa will wear and talk about how he has a big beard.  Sometimes children will feel more secure of they have siblings or friends accompanying them, however you are the best gauge of your child’s needs.  And be sure and have fresh batteries in the camera!

    Here’s a round up of events:

    Sat, Dec 4 & 11, 9am
    Rusty Bucket
    Includes breakfast, special holiday gits, and the opportunity to meet Santa and his holiday friends.  $5 each, advance tickets required- seating will sell out..  


    Sat, Dec 4, 9am
    Pollen Farms

    Santa will join us for this special breakfast at Polen Farm. After eating you’ll have some individual one-on-one time with Santa. Seating is very limited so register early. Everyone must register including parents.  $6 for Kettering residents, $10 for all else.

    Sat’s in Dec 4, 11 & 18, 11am
    Have a special lunch with Santa and then visit the Tike’s Shop at the Schuster Center. Reservations required. Call for cost and reservations. 910-8000.
    Every year for the past 30 years L’Auberge has been proud to present our traditional pre-Christmas brunch for the whole family. There will be one seating at 12:00 – 12:30 pm starting with Santa Claus and gifts for the kids and adults followed by our carol singers.  $39.50 per person
    Sat, Dec 19th 8am
    anta Claus will be here December 18 at 8:00 a.m.  He will be checking everyone’s list.  Be sure to mark your calendar and reserve your spot for breakfast with Santa Claus.  Space is limited!  Activites for the morning include breakfast, crafts, a special story and time to share that important wish list with Santa.  Photo opportunity available, please bring your camera.

    The menu includes:  Scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, breakfast breads, cereal, fruit, juices, milk, and coffee. Children 2-12 years $7, all others $10


    Mon, Dec 20th 5-8pm
    Dinner with Santa on Monday, December 20th (that was the only date he was available)
    Pictures, candy canes and one of Santa’s elves will be here to help!
    Kids Menu for the evening:
    **Pasta with Red or White Sauce
    **Cheese Pizza
    **Grilled Cheese Sandwich with fries
    **Mini Burger with fries
    **Chicken Fingers with fries
    If I’ve missed any, please feel free to add them in the comments below!

    Free Weekend of Yoga

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    Sri Yoga Center, which describes itself as a space for healing, community and growth, is offering a  weekend of free yoga classes taught by yoga-teachers-in-training.  All levels are welcome- from beginning yoga students to seasoned practitioners!  a space for healing, community and growth.

    Donations will be accepted at the door for Daybreak, an outreach program in the Dayton area that provides safe shelter and housing to teens.

    Attend as many classes as you’d like, and you can even join them for a vegetarian potluck lunch on Saturday.  The weekend schedule is as follows:

    Saturday, December 4

    9:15-10:45 am Yoga Flow
    11-12:30 pm Yoga Flow
    12:30-1:30 pm Potluck Lunch
    1:30-3 pm Gentle Yoga
    3:15-4:45 pm Gentle Yoga

    Sunday, December 5

    8-9:30 am Gentle Yoga
    9:45-11:15 am Yoga Flow
    11:30-1 pm Slow Flow

    Sri Yoga Center
     813 Leo Street
    Dayton, Ohio 45404
    (937) 222-7482

    DATV Program: All Things Marketing

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    Monica McGee, creator and show host for DATV's All Things Marketing program.

    Years ago, I worked for a general contractor and my job was to supervise the work being done at one of his job sites while he was away.  I remember being fascinated by the carpenters whom – with extreme focus and spot-on precision with the hammer and nail – meticulously labored on the task before them, erecting the sturdy frame necessary for a strong structure.

    Freelance marketing consultant Monica McGee operates in similar fashion.  She focuses on a goal, knocks it squarely on its head, then – like a certain Brooklyn-born hip-hop artist – moves on to the next one.

    I could say that McGee’s an up-and-coming professional, but the truth is…she’s already here.

    Her show, All Things Marketing, airing on DATV, is an expertly-produced examination of the importance of the often-overlooked process of marketing within everyday business, political and personal activities.  “My vision for the program is to show marketing from different viewpoints,” says McGee.  “I interview business professionals, marketing experts and individuals who understand marketing and how it relates to business, sales, image, and brand equity of a company or individual”  McGee believes showing marketing from various vantage points keeps the show interesting.

    “Even if you’re not into marketing, you can relate,” she adds.  “Whether it’s a company, a job, a place or a product…everything in one way or another is marketing.”

    Another interesting twist to the All Things Marketing format is that each episode focuses on a specific theme.   The first episode (“All Things Politics”) centered around the effects of marketing on the political process.  McGee’s guests – OH Representative Clayton Luckie (D), Logan Martinez (Green Party), David Landon (R),  Robert Scott (Tea Party), Fred Strahorn(D),  County Commission Candidate Jan Kelly (R),  and Dayton Mayor Gary Leitzell (Independent) – represented a wide spectrum of  viewpoints within the political spectrum.

    “The conversation was lively,” recalls McGee, with guests voicing their opinions on topics ranging from budgetary spending and the effectiveness of political ads in swaying public opinion.

    L to R: Shondale Atkinson, Shana Douglas, Carla Weis Hale, show host Monica mcGee, Sharon Davis Howard, Kesha Brooks and Vicki Giambrone. (Photo by F. Coleman)

    For her second show (“All Things Non-Profit: Making Your Marketing Monies Stretch”), McGee tapped Sharon Davis Howard and Vicki Giambrone of the Crown Jewels™ of Dayton, Shana Douglas and Carla Weis Hale of CultureMash, and Shondale Atkinson and Kesha Brooks of The Mustard Seed Foundation to discuss the challenges of marketing within the not-for-profit sector.  If you missed the November 30th airing of this fantastic episode, DATV will re-air it on Dec. 5th at 5 p.m. and Dec. 10th at 2 p.m.

    “Monica’s amazing,” says Larry Haney, technical director for All Things Marketing.  “She and I talked for a long time about the direction of the show.  She’s done a wonderful job right from the beginning and she really cares about the quality of the content in the show.  Also, I like the fact that she chose to highlight some of the non-profits here in Dayton who are doing some important work.”  Show assistant and close friend  Geborah Stephen says, “She keeps things very professional.  It’s  important to her that the show be successful.”

    While McGee certainly has a grand vision for All Things Marketing (“I want to have more regional guests.”), for now her focus is on Dayton and its surrounding communities.  She’s presently lining up guests for the next taping (“All Things Women: Marketing Yourself For Success In A Male-dominated Workforce”) and – like those carpenters I observed years ago – I’m marveling at the efficiency by which she’s laying  strong foundation to build upon.

    Visit All Things Marketing on Facebook

    and on Twitter

    or by phone at (937) 540-0182.

    Your MetroParks Bubbling Over with Weekend Fun

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    When I first started working with Five Rivers MetroParks, someone told me, after a harried summer and fall, that “things usually start to slow down in the winter.” I wish I could find that person now and point to my task box supplemented by my computer monitor’s Post-It foliage brandishing its well of unquenchable to-dos. And boy, do we have an action-packed weekend for park lovers to kick off December.

    Get your pet's picture taken with Santa Saturday, Dec. 4. Proceeds benefit the Humane Soceity of Dayton.

    MetroParks joins in the First Friday fun on Dec. 3 with a variety of activities. I’m looking forward to the PNC 2nd Street Market’s extended hours (Market for lunch AND dinner? Initiate high-fives) from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Azra Kaurin, from Azra’s Mediterranean Cuisine, will host a family-friendly cookie-making demonstration at 10:30 a.m., and she’ll show you how she makes her family’s centuries-old baklava recipe later in the evening. Azra, I will be happy to avail you of your excess baklava (for the greater good, of course). You can also partake in a horse-drawn carriage ride and holiday music provided by the talented students of Kettering Fairmont’s a capella group Fusion (someone hold me back before I Gleek). Pet parents should stop by Saturday morning for Pet Pictures with Santa.

    Of course the MetroParks Ice Rink is open for business. Star-late Skates takes place Friday and Saturday nights, and drop-in lessons are set for Sunday afternoon. Visitors to RiverScape MetroPark from 7-10 p.m. this Saturday will get an extra treat with horse-drawn carriage rides. Let’s see… Ice skates at $5 a piece plus a downtown carriage ride at $8 per couple plus the obligatory cup of hot chocolate for a buck a pop equals one super romantic date night that won’t break the bank. Just don’t follow it up with a less-than-stellar Christmas present. (“Oh, honey, a new vacuum cleaner? You shouldn’t have. I mean really shouldn’t have.”)

    Avian enthusiasts have a variety of bird-watching activities to choose from this weekend.Although this urban kid sticks close to the skyline for my weekend entertainment, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention all the cool programs going on in the parks this Saturday. Bird lovers will have plenty to keep them busy with a Winter Bird Search at Hills & Dales MetroPark, Project Feeder Watch going on at Germantown MetroPark’s Nature Center and the Barred Owl Prowl taking place at Sugarcreek MetroPark. You could also have a tea party (the actual tea kind), track some animals, hike for the health of it, even make your own pasta.

    Monday (December 6) starts the first of the Adventure Speaker Series in which the Outdoor Recreation Department at Five Rivers MetroParks and Wright State University team up to present a variety of speakers whose stories and photos will inspire you to “get out and live!” Head to Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark at 7 p.m. Monday to hear from Lou Vito, father of snowboarding pro Louie Vito, as he shares how his son went from cruising the slopes at Mad River Mountain in nearby Bellefontaine to becoming an Olympic snowboarding champion.

    As you can see, there’s something for everyone this weekend in your MetroParks. Enjoy the outdoors and I apologize in advance to the throngs of citizens with whom I will collide at the rink.

    Jane’s Best Bets (12/1 – 12/5)

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    Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

    I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving!  Just think…in less than four weeks, Santa Claus is coming to town.  You better watch out for the many fun things going on this week!

    On Wednesday, head over to the University of Dayton for their Narrative Enchantment: Nativity Stories in Gold and Blue, which is a visual display created by an award-winning illustrator.  You better not cry when you see Scrooge in A Christmas Carolat the Victoria Theatre.  At the Robert and Elaine Stein Galleries, bring in canned goods to create an artistic display, which will then be donated to the Foodbank as part of the Show of HeART: The Foodbank Installation.  At the Oakwood Dorothy Lane Market, attend the Season’s Greetings Beer Tasting. And in the evening, make your way over to UD Arena to watch the Flyers play East Tennessee State!

    On Thursday, learn how social media can help grow your business by registering for Social Media Boot Camp at Sinclair.  If you’re a young professional interested in marketing and new media and would like to give back (after all, Santa knows if you’ve been bad or good), you will definitely want to learn about a new and wonderful group in town called CultureMASH at their launch event at Wright State.  And if you’re a young professional in the defense industry, definitely check out the Young AFCEAn End of Year Social at the Pub at the Greene.  For a good laugh, head over to the Victoria Theatre to see the stand-up comic Lisa Lampanelli.  Santa knows who is naughty and nice, and according to what I’ve heard, Lisa’s stand-up routine is more of the former, as she has been hailed the “Queen of Mean”…however, she is well-liked by many!  If you’ve been making a list of all the songs of the 70s you know and love, then you’ll be able to listen to them as part of 8-Track: The Sounds of the ’70s at The Loft Theatre.  And if you would like to hear another style of music, watch the University of Dayton Orchestra, as they put on a FREE show!

    On Friday, head over to the PNC 2nd Street Market to make Azra’s Favorite Christmas Cookies.  Watch the Miami Valley Dance Company’s Performance of the Nutcrackerat Bellbrook High School.  Attend the Downtown Dayton Partnership’s First Friday, which is an amazing art hop downtown.  Don’t worry, if you’re not an art fanatic, there are plenty of other things to do while you’re downtown!  Ice skate at RiverScape (that sounds like the beginning of a tongue twister) to some music like the professionals do as part of their DJ Skate: Holiday and Top 40, or take a Horse-drawn Carriage Ride. At the Schuster Center, check out the Dayton Philharmonic’s performance, ‘Twas the Night: Holiday at Home’. At The Loft Theatre, be entertained by 8-Track: The Sounds of the ’70s.  And finally downtown, I am so pleased to announce that Bryan Adams will be performing at Victoria Theatre!  Yeah, I’m pretty sure that “Bryan Adams” is a common name, but I checked and it is THE Bryan Adams…you know, the singer!  Please forgive me for the fact that my words come straight from the heart…I’m just that excited about it!  At Triangle Park, take the kids and attend the City Of Dayton Winter Wonderland to experience a fun, outdoor light display…just tell them to be good for goodness sake.  And if you are in the suburbs, consider seeing A Christmas Carolat the Beavercreek Community Theatre, the Washington Township Woodland Lights, or Junie B. Jones: Jingle Bells, Batman Smellsat Town Hall Theatre in Centerville.  I don’t think little Junie is aware of the fact that Santa knows if she’s been good or bad!

    On Saturday, you better be making a list of the things you would like to do, as there are so many awesome events from which to choose!  Santa Claus will REALLY be coming to town and you can have breakfast with him at Rusty Bucket at the Dayton Mall or at Polen Farms.  Also at Polen Farms, you can attend their Holiday Boutique to find unique holiday gifts.  Not sure how unique they are, as there will also be the Christkindlmarkt German Christmas Bazaar at Dayton Liederkranz Turner and the Omega Holiday Bazaar at Omega Baptist Church, which both offer one-of-a-kind holiday gifts.  Kind of reminds me of the quote, “You’re unique, just like everybody else.”  I guess it’s the same way with Christmas gifts.  Sorry, I digress.  I’m thinking Santa must have a pretty busy day, as he will also be at Uno’s Chicago Grill and at the PNC 2nd Street Market for Pet Pictures with Santa.  While at the PNC 2nd Street Market, you can also participate in the Christmas Walk, which is my kind of walk as it is a “noncompetitive walk for the health of it”.  Although my kind of walk is probably more like the We Care Arts Cookie Walk going on at We Care Arts in Kettering, which is a wonderful organization that seeks to change disabilities into possibilities through art.  If you’re in downtown Lebanon, check out the Historic Christmas Festival and Horse Drawn Carriage Parade.

    Continuing with Saturday…At the Victoria Theatre, check out Mooseltoe:  The Moosical…gotta love puns!  Also for more theater action, check out Junie B. Jones: Jingle Bells, Batman Smells at Town Hall Theatre, the Miami Valley Dance Company’s Nutcracker at Bellbrook High School, or A Christmas Carol at the Beavercreek Community Theatre.  If you enjoy music, consider listening to The Dayton Philharmonic ‘Twas the Night: Holiday at Home’at the Schuster Center, the UD Ebony Heritage Singers at the University of Dayton, or 8-Track: The Sounds of the ’70s at The Loft Theatre.  Eat and dance the night away with The Soul Express Band at the Dayton Neighborhood Ballat the Dayton Masonic Center.  Give those vocal chords a workout (although you may need to see one of my colleagues for voice therapy afterwards!) by cheering on the Flyers as they take on Miami at UD Arena.  At the University of Dayton’s campus, you will be able to see Holiday Happenings – DCDC2’s Family Holiday Performance, in which there will be fun-filled dance performances to traditional and non-traditional holiday music.  And finally on Saturday evening, I am excited to be  celebrating with Generation Dayton at their Annual Holiday Party at the Old Courthouse downtown!

    On Sunday, you will once again be able to get some holiday shopping accomplished at the Omega Holiday Bazaar at Omega Baptist Church and the Christkindlmarkt German Christmas Bazaarat Dayton Liederkranz Turner.  If you’re looking for something musical, check out Mooseltoe:  The Moosical at Victoria Theatre, 8-Track: The Sounds of the ’70s at The Loft Theatre, Afternoon Musicales: Dayton Music Club at the Dayton Art Institute, Advent Dinner and Choral Program at Westminster Presbyterian Church, or the UD Choral Union/ World Music Choir/ Hands in Harmony at the University of Dayton.  And if you love all the Christmas decorations this time of year, hit up the Washington Township Woodland Lights!

    You better not pout because you can’t hit up all these awesome events this week!  I’m confident that whatever you choose to do, you’ll have an awesome time!

    And now it’s time for the Dumb Joke of the Week. Drum roll please…

    What do you call Santa when he has no money?
    Saint “Nickel”-less!

    These are just a few best bets from the DMM Calendar.  There are plenty more events listed there, so if you haven’t, I encourage you to check it out today!  Also, if you have an event to share or promote, please submit it– it’s great marketing and better yet, it’s FREE!  And finally, if you have a dumb joke to share, I’m all ears!

    Have a great week Dayton!