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Archives for May 2012

The Big Ragu Gears up for the 2012 “A World A’Fair”

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Mark your calendars, local foodies !!! May 18th -20th, 2012 at the Dayton Convention Center is the “World A’Fair.”  For those who don’t know, this International Festival has been a Dayton tradition for over 40 years.   “A World A’Fair.”  features food, dancing, music, costumes, and cultural exhibits that represent the ethnic backgrounds and cultures of the residents of the Dayton area.  What better way to sample cuisine from around the world all by taking a few steps?

According to the World a’Fair Website,“Folklore Around the World” will be this year’s cultural theme.  All of the participating countries will present folk traditions at their booths.  Native American singing and dancing will be the Featured Entertainment. Spanish Flamenco dancers will be new entertainment for this year.

But you know your Food Adventurers visit this International Festival for one thing… FOOD !! In between hugging accordion players, and dancing with exotic women in traditional garb, we like to hit the booths for some international tastes.

 

The Food Adventures Crew would like to share some of our annual food favorites found at the “World A’Fair.”

The Creme Puffs at the South Slavic Booth are Incredibly Good

South Slavic Booth: The Creme Puffs here are to die for.  They have traditional choices as well as chocolate ones.

Germany Booth:  Everyone enjoys the Bratwurst here.   We prefer loading it up with sauerkraut and mustard for that perfect bite.  The soft pretzels are not bad either !

Scotland Booth:  Daring Food Adventurers should try the Haggis .. it is a traditional Scottish dish.  This version is ground liver meat served with crackers.  Can you handle the real deal?  Not your style?  Then try their “Bridie” meat pie for a more tame dish.

Ireland Booth: The Beer here is the main attraction, but kids love the Irish Pub Fries.

Dutch Booth:  Try the Appelflappen (fritters), and enjoy the women cooking in traditional outfits.

Greek Booth:  The Gyros are fantastic here.  They are the same group that makes the gyros and chicken gyros for the Greek Festival.  The onions on the gyros make it fun to breathe on your friends afterwards.

Mexican Booth:  The tacos and empanadas are made to order at this booth.  The prices are cheaper than most other booths.

The Italian Wedding Cake is a Must

Italy Booth:  Sure you can grab a freshly grilled Italian sausage with peppers and onions, but may we suggest their fabulous desserts?  The Italian Wedding Cake is phenomenal and filled with strawberries and whipped cream.  The Tiramisu and Cannoli are also top notch.

Korea Booth:  The Veggie Dumplings were incredible.  The dumplings

are huge and have a great, fresh taste.

Lebanon Booth: The Falafel is our favorite offering!  This veggie patty is served in a pita for a great tasting sandwich.

This festival is close to The Big Ragu’s heart.  We have some great childhood memories of coming to the World a’Fair with our parents and grandparents.  You may even see The Big Ragu volunteering at the Italy food booths!  This event is a true Dayton tradition, and May 18-20th is your chance to leave your mark on the legacy.

Veggie Dumplings from the Korean Booth

The secret to this festival is to visit many booths and try different food offerings.  You never know what you are going to discover.  A World A’Fair is a perfect excuse to take an afternoon, or an evening and escape everyday life for a couple of hours. and immerse yourself into different cultures and different foods.

All of the information can be found on  www.worldafair.org.   Tickets are $5 in advance, or $3 for children at any Kroger location.  Tickets are also sold at the door for a couple of dollars more.  You can also check out the website and find opportunities to volunteer for a country’s booth.  However you decide to participate, make sure you visit this festival, bring friends, or kids and create some memories.

Have some memories to share about A WORLD A’FAIR ???  Are you coming to the 2012 event??  Please comment below!

“Like” Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking HERE !!

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The Entrepreneurial Genius behind Meadowlark

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When you hear the name Meadowlark, does a sweet little, Snow-White-esque chirping bird come to mind?  Well fun fact—did you know this yellow-breasted, song bird is the state bird of Kansas?  Did you also know that a very chic restaurant located on Far Hills Avenue dons this same name?  The owner of the restaurant, Wiley as she likes to be called, is originally from Kansas, and felt this name was just perfect for her restaurant (learn more about Wiley from her 10 ? interview). She originally opened Meadowlark in September of 2004 on Miamisburg-Centerville Road, but a year ago this May, they made the move to a larger, more central location at 5531 Far Hills Avenue.  Meadowlark was able to take this step to a better location and bring in more clientele because of the hard work of Wiley and her best friend, Liz.  After hearing the story of Meadowlark’s development, I was truly inspired by Wiley’s entrepreneur smarts.

 This will be my last article for DaytonMostMetro, and when my amazing editor, Lisa, suggested that I should focus this article on the entrepreneurship aspect of a restaurant, I was a little worried.  At the University of Dayton, I don’t study business.  I have some general ideas of the business world, but I did not feel confident enough, at first, to tackle this task.  So after much research, I finally met with Wiley to discuss how she built her restaurant from scratch.  Hearing the entire story was truly moving, but before I jump to the details of this journey, I must thank Lisa.  Because of this article, I was pushed past my comfort zone.  By her pushing me to achieve more through this experience, I have gained so much knowledge and a different angle on the restaurant business.  So thank you, Lisa.  You have been the best editor I could have hoped for.  I am truly blessed to have been given this opportunity to learn so much.

This article has enlightened me to how many small details go into building a dream from nothing.  Wiley engineered the menu, the design, and the working dynamics of Meadowlark, which all contribute to the success of the restaurant, today.  During our interview, she explained how she’s mostly responsible, but it is also developed through collaboration.  One of the neatest things Wiley touched on was her sincere interest in her employees’ ideas.  She really emphasized how she loves letting the staff have input: “we’re always trying to improve.”  And one of the ways they accomplish this is in their staff meetings, where staff members are fully involved in the discussion.

Meadowlark’s menu is the same way: the eats really embody who Wiley is, but through the staff’s group effort, they have continually improved upon their selection.  “It’s really a reflection of my personal style. The menu is the whole point of having your own restaurant,” explained Wiley.  She’s a cook by trade, having first developed her culinary interests when she was given free range to make dinner as a child.  Her mother worked, so her aunt helped her in the kitchen and allowed her to develop her own culinary skills.  “It really wasn’t a thing to go to culinary school,” she pointed out, but some might even say her cuisine surpasses those who did attend school.

Wiley describes the design of Meadowlark’s new location as having “just evolved.”  She didn’t hire a designer, but rather trusted her own instincts.  They kept the same colors of the old location “for continuity,” including an array of red, yellow, and green.  With some luck, they tore down the dark-colored dry wall to find a beautiful brick wall that is still exposed today.  With the new space, they were also able to add a bar, which is illuminated in a beautiful, eye-popping blue.  Wiley made sure to tackle the simple issues, such as eliminating the noise problems by buying rubber flooring that looks wooden.  (I would have never known if she had not enlightened me to this fact!  It looks so real.)  With the addition of a couple of rustic doors and a few culinary touches (like frying pan lights!), the design was unique and complete.

Due to her success in the restaurant business, Wiley was able to offer some insightful advice.   First off, she really emphasized how it takes commitment to make the best food, environment, and service possible.  As an entrepreneur, she made this dream into a reality, but not without a lot of time and effort.  Wiley, herself, is one of the best examples of her second piece of advice: “strive to always improve.”  Through her commitment to hearing what others have to say, Meadowlark has grown tremendously, incorporating different interests of their employees, as well as the tastes of their customers.  Wiley’s last two pieces of advice apply to entrepreneurship, but also to life in general: “be generous and be nice, and support things you care about.”  Once more, Wiley provides a stellar example through her restaurant.  Meadowlark helps support public radio and local publications, and any donation request of the restaurant receives a gift.  While Meadowlark cares for the community, it is obvious that Wiley cares for this restaurant, her dream-made-reality.  With a lot of care, effort, and commitment on Wiley’s part, Meadowlark has become a success.

I would even deem the working dynamic of her staff as unique and truly special.  Through our interview, I could really tell she cared about her staff members.  She frankly stated, “I’m not looking to create an empire, just a good work environment.”  She emphasized how it’s truly important to her that her staff and customers want to come to Meadowlark every day.  “It’s important to create more opportunities for them, and it’s fun to figure out something new.”  Recently, Wiley helped incorporate their floor manager’s interest in beer into their bar menu; “it keeps me on my toes and them invested in their job.”  Their next project?  Wiley’s best friend, Liz, is really interested in pizza.  Meadowlark actually helped send her to pizza school!  So to test out the success of these pizzas with their customers, they have begun to open Meadowlark on Monday nights as a pizzeria!  Wiley’s plan is to test this for three to four months through the summer and occasionally serve a couple as a lunch special, in order to gather some feedback from their customers.  Who knows—maybe another restaurant will be born from Wiley’s will to help a best friend.

Thank you—Wiley, for this truly educational interview; Lisa, for providing this learning experience; and for all you Daytonians whom have read my articles this past school year.  It has been a pleasure writing for you all.

 

This is Mariah Douglas, signing off.

 

 

Meadowlark Restaurant

5531 Far Hills Avenue

Dayton, OH 45429

(937) 434-4750

Hours

Sunday: 10AM-3PM

Monday: 5PM-9PM (Pizza time!)

Tuesday-Thursday: 11:30AM-9:30PM

Friday-Saturday: 11:30 AM-10PM

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(Editor’s Note:  It’s been our pleasure to have Mariah as a DaytonDining intern this year, and help her explore the world outside of UD Campus.  We wish her much success in her future). 

Volunteer For Dayton’s Premier Wine & Gourmet Food Fest

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On Sunday, May 20th over 1000 folks will converge on Carillon Park for one of Dayton’s most anticipated wine festivals, Fleurs et Vin. Now in it’s 20th year, the fest has proved to be a spectacular party in the park.  This years event will benefit AIDS Resource Center Ohio and Dayton History.

To pull off this event, that features over 300 wines and 25 of Dayton’s finest independent restaurants,  hundreds of volunteers are needed.  From helping to direct parking, checking ID’s, handing out glasses and plates, distributing ice and water, helping in the beer garden and monitoring the live and silent auctions, there are lots of jobs to do.

And one of the fringe benefits for volunteers at this event, free tasting.  That’s right, once you’ve completed your work, you can get a glass and enjoy!    Of course all voluteers do need to be 21 or over.  So grab your friends and sign up today.

Zoot Theatre 2012-2013 Season Announcement

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The Zoot Theatre Company, Dayton’s only professional puppetry and mask company has announced its 2012-13 inaugural season at the NCR Renaissance Auditorium at the Dayton Art Institute.

The Hobbit

The company will open with THE HOBBIT, presented by special arrangement with Dramatic Publishing Company out of Woodstock, IL and co-directed by J. Gary Thompson and D. Tristan Cupp. THE HOBBIT is J.R.R. Tolkien’s classic story of Bilbo Baggins, who is asked to leave his large, roomy home underground to set out as chief robber to recover a very important treasure. Presented as a puppet and mask piece, Zoot’s stunning artwork will be on full display in this epic adventure. THE HOBBIT will open on Friday, September 28 and run three weekends, every Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. through Sunday, October 14.

Zoot’s second show in its three-show MainStage Series is A CHRISTMAS CAROL, which is being specifically adapted for Zoot in order to fit its artistic vision of the classic Charles Dickens masterpiece. Presented as a puppet and mask piece, people of all ages will marvel at the ghosts of Jacob Marley and the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come. A CHRISTMAS CAROL will be directed by Aaron Vega and will open on Friday, November 30 and run three weekends every Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. through Sunday, December 16.

Finally, Zoot will close the Season with the powerful and historic tale of children coming of age in Terezin, the Jewish city established by the Nazis. AND A CHILD SHALL LEAD is Michael Slade’s powerful play about children using their imaginations and creativity to make art to build lives of hope with their actual poems and stories woven in throughout the play.AND A CHILD SHALL LEAD will be directed by Mark Metzger and open Friday, April 5 and run two weekends on Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. through Sunday, April 14.

Zoot will be holding general auditions at the company’s studios at 308 Washington St., Dayton on Saturday, June 16 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will be both paid and unpaid acting positions, depending upon the role in which one is cast. Those interested should email auditions@zoottheatrecompany.org to schedule a timeslot. More information will be posted on the company’s website at www.zoottheatrecompany.org and Facebook Page.

Tickets will go on sale beginning July 1 online and over the phone. Both single performance tickets and subscriptions will be available. Tickets are $18.00 for adults; $15.00 for seniors; $15.00 for students with a valid ID; and $12.00 for children 12 and under.

Take My Seat, Please

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When I was growing up, my mother and father taught me a lot when it came to manners and respecting others. One of my earliest memories is when we were visiting my Aunt Miriam.  Yes, you heard me right – Aunt Miriam; one of my favorite names.  My two brothers and myself were sitting in our own comfy chairs at my aunt’s house when in came several adults.  My brothers and I just kept sitting in our comfy chairs, only to hear my father say, “Give your chair to the adults.”  That meant, sit on the floor.  And we did.  When my father said move, you moved! No questions asked.  We were the children.

From that day forward, I knew when an adult entered the room and there was no place to sit, that the adult got the seat.  We learned to respect our elders.  In Japan, age outranks everything.  The elderly are held in the highest esteem.  I don’t recall ever seeing a child, or younger adult taking the seat of an older person, although, that was in the 60’s.  Wow – I am aging myself.

Flash forward about 25 years.  I walk into a relative’s house and there is no place to sit.  There happens to be a young teenage boy in a seat.  He does not offer his seat, and his parents do not ask him to offer it.  I sit on the floor.  Wow!! So, in just 25 years, I see a change, but keep in mind that this is not the norm.  Most men, children and young adults still offer their seat to someone older.

Five years ago, a woman using crutches, carrying her purse, was going into the local drug store.  It was obvious that she was having a bit of trouble.  I noticed a person walking in with her, only to see – oh, yes, you see it coming – he did not open the door for her even though it almost slammed in her face.  I was still in my car and couldn’t help her.

Around the same time, I went to one of Dayton’s finest restaurants.  I walked in to see men and women sitting at the bar, waiting on their table, while older women are standing.  One or two do offer their seats, yet some still stay seated.  I understand that it is 2012, and that women want to be treated equally, but we’re talking about women that deserve that bit of respect and courtesy, even in 2012.

Flash forward to last Saturday, the reason why I have written all of the above.  I took my grandchildren to breakfast Sunday late morning. Keeping in mind it is late Sunday and it is going to be busy and a 20-minute wait, I knew that I might have to stand and so would my grandchildren.  I saw two older people walk in together; one had a cane and the other with a walker.  There was a lovely couple in their mid 20’s, sitting in the waiting area.  Keep in
mind that the couple with the cane and walker had to walk right past them.  They DID NOT offer their seat to either person.  Instead, an older couple offered their seat.  I wish there was a funny story in this, but there really isn’t.  This bothered me so much I had to make this my next etiquette column.  Although, this really isn’t about etiquette, it’s about simple respect, courtesy and manners.

I realize that for the most part, people have, and do teach their children to be respectful of their elders, and men to be courteous to women.  There may even be reasons why they don’t offer their chairs.  Maybe they are not feeling well or have physical problems that aren’t readily apparent.

On the flip side, I have seen the kindness of men and women offering their seat to their elders. They are aware of their surroundings. To them I say, Thank You.  Your parents taught you well.

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Pony Parties & Cinco de Mayo Celebrations

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Cinco de Mayo falls on Saturday this year, the same day as the Kentucky Derby, a happy coincidence that has many restaurants and bars planning cross-cultural celebrations.  That sounds like something worth raising a glass for, doesn’t it?

 

I’m not really sure it lives up to it it’s billing as “the greatest two minutes in sports,” but I do know that the traditions and parties that it inspires make The Kentucky Derby one of the most anticipated days of the spring.

The Derby is frequently referred to as “The Run for the Roses,” because a lush blanket of 554 red roses is awarded to the Kentucky Derby winner each year. The tradition is as a result of New York socialite E. Berry Wall presenting roses to ladies at a post-Derby party in 1883 that was attended by Churchill Downs founder and president, Col. M. Lewis Clark. This gesture is believed to have eventually led Clark to the idea of making the rose the race’s official flower. However, it was not until 1896 that any recorded account referred to roses being draped on the Derby winner.

The Drink:  No Derby party would be complete without Mint Juleps- an iced drink consisting of bourbon, mint and a sugar syrup.  Check out DMM Mixologist Brian Petro’s article  for more info.

The Song:  If you’ve had enough juleps, at some point you may feel the inspiration to burst into the song. Since 1936, My Old Kentucky Home has been performed by the University of Louisville Marching Band as the horses make their way to the starting gate.  I’ve never been to a party where folks knew all the words to the song, so as a favor to all- here they are:

My Old Kentucky Home

By Stephen Foster

The sun shines bright in the old Kentucky home,
Tis summer, the people are gay;
The corn-top’s ripe and the meadow’s in the bloom
While the birds make music all the day.

The young folks roll on the little cabin floor
All merry, all happy and bright;
By’n by hard times comes a knocking at the door
Then my old Kentucky home, Good-night!

Weep no more my lady. Oh! Weep no more today!
We will sing one song for my old Kentucky home
For the old Kentucky home, far away.
The Hat:  On the Kentucky Derby website they state: “Part Southern tradition, part spectacle, the Kentucky Derby hat parade is much of what makes “The Greatest Two Minutes in Sports” one of the greatest people-watching events in the world! From the fantastic to the sublime, there are no rules or limits when it comes to choosing your Derby hat. Whether to make a statement or just keep the sun at bay, Kentucky Derby hats are part of the tradition and the pageantry that make a trip to the Derby an unforgettable experience.

 

Ways to Celebrate Derby Day in Dayton:

Start your day with a Derby Dash at Riverscape to benefit Life Essentials at Riverscape.

This annual event starts at 9am, with registration at 8am.  From fun runs for the kids to a 5K walk run for the adults, costumes and teams are encouraged to join this festive fundraiser.  Prizes are awarded for participants in various age categories, farthest distance traveled, and best hat!

3rd annual Derby Day Brunch at Brio 11am – 1pm
This fundraiser for the Women’s Wellness Fund include a “Hat Strut”,  a silent auction & roaming models from merchants at The Greene.

 

What is Cinco de Mayo?
While often mistaken for Mexican Independence Day, Cinco de Mayo  commemorates the Mexican Army’s astonishing triumph over the French that took place on May 5, 1862. The Mexican Army was greatly outnumbered by the French, who had also not lost a battle in over fifty years!

There are various Cinco de Mayo traditions that are celebrated around the world. In Mexico, most of the Cinco de Mayo celebrations that take place occur in the town of Puebla (where the battle took place). There are large parades that feature people dressed up as Mexican and French soldiers.

In the United States and some parts of Canada, people often host Cinco de Mayo parties with their friends and family.

The Colors:  Red, white and green, representing the Mexican flag often appear in costumes and party decorations. People decorate for Cinco de Mayo with balloons, streamers, and flowers.

The Music:  Mariachi bands or other Mexican folk music is also played at these celebrations and there is often traditional Mexican dancing.

The Food:  A feast of traditional Mexican dishes such as tacos, enchiladas, and salsa and tortilla chips.

Other parts of the world also have their own Cinco de Mayo traditions, though they are not as notable as the traditions in Mexico and the United States. In Vancouver, Canada there is an annual skydiving event and in the Cayman Islands there is an air guitar competition that takes each year on May 5.

Where to celebrate in Dayton:

 

 

TJ Chumps Cinco de Mayo Party
Featuring $3 Corona’s & Dos Equis and shot specials all day at all 3 locations

El Meson Cinco de Mayo Lunch Buffet
Enjoy a true latin feast featuring empandas, fajitas, frijoles fritos and a kids tac bar, too. Noon to 4pm

Cincdo de Mayo Spanish Wine Tasting at Jungle Jim’s
Celebrate the great Mexican victory by tasting some of Spain’s Best 2009 and 2010 vintage wines

Cinco de Moustache at Quaker Steak & Lube
Celebration featuring facial-hair themed carnival games and a best moustache contest (both real and fake).

Dayton Arab American Forum Cinco de Mayo Celebration at Yankee Trace
Spring hafli featuring a catered Middle Eastern dinner and entertainment by Zein and his Detroit based band.

Salsa Saturday at Therapy Cafe
Dance Contest, Hot Chili Pepper Eating Contest, free Mexican Buffet 

Todd the Fox celebrates Cinco de Mayo at Taste of Wine
Wine tasting and live music in downtown Miamisburg

Cinco De Mayo With Funky G at Trolley Stop

 

Coming Up in Cincinnati Theatre: April 30-May 6

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…BLINK AND THEY’RE GONE

ALADDIN JR

Cincinnati Black Theatre Company

The Story: Welcomes Agrabah, City of Enchantment, where every beggar has a story and every camel has a tail! Filled with magic, mayhem, and flying carpet rides, audiences’ spirits will soar with excitement. With, Academy Award winning songs including “A Whole New World” and “Friend Like Me” will certainly make this musical a favorite for many years to come!
The Dates: May 5-6, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cincinnati Black Theatre Company | BTC listing

MAMMA MIA!

Broadway in Cincinnati

The Story: A mother. A daughter. 3 possible dads. And a trip down the aisle you’ll never forget! Over 45 million people all around the world have fallen in love with the characters, the story and the music that make Mamma Mia! the ultimate feel-good show! Writer Catherine Johnson’s sunny, funny tale unfolds on a Greek island paradise. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the identity of her father brings 3 men from her mother’s past back to the island they last visited 20 years ago. The story-telling magic of ABBA’s timeless songs propels this enchanting tale of love, laughter and friendship, and every night everyone’s having the time of their lives!
The Dates: May 1-6, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Broadway in Cincinnati | BTC listing

 

…NEW THIS WEEK

LIFE COULD BE A DREAM

Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati

The Story: SH-BOOM! From the creator of THE MARVELOUS WONDERETTES, comes the Crooning Crabcakes, the boy group banned from the Springfield High School prom that made it possible for The Marvelous Wonderettes to perform. The guys get one more chance at fame and fortune as Denny, Eugene, Skip and Wally form a singing group to enter and win the local radio contest and realize their dreams of making it to the big time! Featuring such classic songs as “Stay” (Just a Little Bit Longer),” “Runaround Sue,” “Tears On My Pillow,” “Unchained Melody,” “Earth Angel,” and of course the title song, Life Could Be A Dream is another musical trip down memory lane that will leave you laughing, singing and cheering!
The Dates: May 2-20, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati | BTC listing

Catherine Ross as Margaret Johnson & Abby Paljieg as Clara Johnson in Footlighters' THE LIGHT IN THE PIAZZA.

THE LIGHT IN THE PIAZZA

Footlighters Inc.

The Story: The show takes place in Italy in the summer of 1953. Margaret Johnson, the wife of an American, is touring the Tuscan countryside with her daughter, Clara. While sightseeing, Clara-a beautiful, childish young woman-loses her hat in a sudden gust. As if guided by an unseen hand, the hat lands at the feet of Fabrizio Naccarelli, a handsome Florentine, who returns it to Clara. This brief episode sparks an immediate romance between Clara and Fabrizio. Extremely protective, Margaret attempts to keep them apart. As the story unfolds, a secret is revealed about Clara: she is not all that she appears. Unable to suppress the truth, Margaret is forced to reconsider not only Clara’s future, but her own hopes as well.
The Dates: May 3-19, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Footlighters Inc. | BTC listing

OVER THE RIVER AND THROUGH THE WOODS

Mariemont Players

The Story: Nick, an Italian-American boy from New Jersey, wants to follow his dream and move to Seattle – far away from his beloved, but annoying, grandparents and their routine Sunday dinners. But both sets of grandparents scheme to keep him from moving, using the lovely, and single, Caitlin O’Hare as bait.
The Dates: May 4-20, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Mariemont Players | BTC listing

PLAY IT AGAIN, SAM

Stagecrafters

The Story: Allan Felix has this thing about Humphrey Bogart. If only he had some of Bogart’s technique…Bogey comes to the rescue of Allan (who is bookish and insecure with women) with a fantastic bevy of beauties played out in hilarious fantasy sequences. Fixed up with gorgeous women by friends, he’s so awkward that even Bogey’s patience is tried. Allan mostly resembles a disheveled, friendly dog and this is what ultimately charms his best friend’s wife into bed. It’s a tough life, making it in the world of beautiful people but if you can’t be a hero it helps to have one…
The Dates: May 5-13, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Stagecrafters | BTC listing

THE SECOND CITY: LESS PRIDE MORE PORK

Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park

The Story: The world’s premier comedy company will again set its razor-sharp sights on Cincinnati. What’s left to skewer? The Second City was in town long enough to know they haven’t come close to exhausting the material. Not to mention, between now and opening night, entire sports seasons will come and go, politicians will star on reality shows and streetcars may (or may not) be on track. The future holds nothing but promise for comedy at our expense. 
The Dates: April 29-July 1, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park | BTC listing

…CONTINUING

Kellen York. Photo by Deogracias Lerma.

BLOODY BLOODY ANDREW JACKSON

Know Theatre of Cincinnati

The Story: BLOODY BLOODY ANDREW JACKSON uses the story of America’s controversial seventh president, “the man who invented the Democratic Party, doubled the size of our nation, and signed the Indian Removal Acts that started the Trail of Tears,” to investigate the attraction and terrors of American populism, using a raucous blend of outrageous comedy, anarchic theatricality and an infectious rock n’ roll soundtrack.
The Dates: March 31-May 12, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Know Theatre of Cincinnati | BTC listing

JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT

Covedale Center for the Performing Arts

The Story: The Biblical, all-sung saga of Joseph and his coat of many colors comes to vibrant life in this delightful parable. Joseph, his father’s favorite son, is a boy blessed with prophetic dreams. When he is sold into slavery by his jealous brothers and taken to Egypt, Joseph endures a series of adventures in which his spirit and humanity are continually challenged.
The Dates: April 19-May 13, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Covedale Center | BTC listing

THUNDER KNOCKING ON THE DOOR

Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park

The Story: Once upon a time, a mysterious, blues-playing stranger named Marvell Thunder arrives at the door of the Dupree family with a unique challenge — a “cutting contest,” in which twin guitars are the weapons of choice. If he has his way, the epic musical showdown will change everyone’s life forever. A mystical, magical celebration of love, family and the exhilarating power of music to free your soul. 
The Dates: April 21-May 20, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park | BTC listing

 

…ENDING THIS WEEK

THE CRUCIBLE

The Drama Workshop

The Story: The story focuses upon a young farmer, his wife, and a young servant-girl who maliciously causes the wife’s arrest for witchcraft. The farmer brings the girl to court to admit the lies and it is here that the monstrous course of bigotry and deceit is terrifyingly depicted. The farmer, instead of saving his wife, finds himself also accused of witchcraft and ultimately condemned with a host of others.
The Dates: April 27-May 5, 2012
Tickets and More Information: The Drama Workshop | BTC listing

THE DROWSEY CHAPERONE

Nativity Players

The Story: The show revolves around one musical theatre fan’s obsession with a fictional show from the 1920s – ‘The Drowsy Chaperone’. As he listens to the recording, the characters come to life in his apartment. This is the story of a Broadway actress, Janet Van De Graaaff, who wants to marry the debonair Robert Martin and give up her stage career. Janet’s producer, Mr. Feldzie, must stop the wedding because if she quits show business, he’ll lose his job! Further, gangsters threaten Mr. Feldzie since if Janet quits, they lose their investment.
The Dates: April 27-May 5, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Nativity Players | BTC listing

Tracy M. Schoster & Jeremy Fischer in Falcon Theatre's FROZEN. Photo by Mikki Schaffner.

FROZEN

Falcon Theatre

The Story: This taut drama explores the world of three characters who’s lives intersect in the most violent way. A mother,a serial killer and a psychologist take us deep into the events of a terrible crime and its aftermath. The quiet power of this play is at once horrifying and mesmerizing.
The Dates: April 20-May 5, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Falcon Theatre | BTC listing

…COMING SOON

ANGEL STREET

Lebanon Theatre Company

The Dates: May 11-20, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Lebanon Theatre Company | BTC listing

THE CIVIL WAR

UC College-Conservatory of Music

The Dates: May 10-12, 2012
Tickets and More Information: BTC listing

THE COMPLETE IDIOT’S GUIDE TO ENLIGHTENMENT

The Dates: May 10-11, 2012
Tickets and More Information: BTC listing

Disney’s CAMP ROCK THE MUSICAL

The Children’s Theatre of Mason

The Dates: May 11-13, 2012
Tickets and More Information: The Children’s Theatre of Mason | BTC listing

ELEPHANT SIGHS

Mad Anthony Theatre Company

The Dates: May 1-6, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Mad Anthony Theatre Company | BTC listing

THE FANTASTICKS

Loveland Stage Company

The Dates: May 11-20, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Loveland Stage Company | BTC listing

FIVE WOMEN WEARING THE SAME DRESS

Wyoming Players

The Dates: May 11-19, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Wyoming Players | BTC listing

LES MISERABLES

Broadway in Cincinnati

The Dates: May 8-13, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Broadway in Cincinnati | BTC listing

THE MERCHANT OF VENICE

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company

The Dates: May 11-June 3, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cincinnati Shakespeare Company | BTC listing

TITANIC THE MUSICAL

Cincinnati Music Theatre

The Dates: May 11-19, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cincinnati Music Theatre | BTC listing

Downtown Dayton’s Biggest Street Party Returns May 11

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Approximately 30,000 people come downtown for Urban Nights.

On Urban Nights, downtown will be teeming with activity and people ready to enjoy the dining, nightlife, art, music, shopping and housing that can be found only in Dayton. The next free Urban Nights will be held 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, May 11, in downtown, the Oregon Arts District and Wright-Dunbar Business Village.

Click here for a complete performance schedule, map of participating venues, and list of all participating locations’ events and specials.

The Green Street Project, designed to celebrate all things green and promote environmental sustainability, will include interactive and art-making activities for the whole family, exhibits on green technology, games, and more on Main Street, which will be closed between Second and Third streets. The Green Street Project is presented by the Downtown Dayton Partnership, Montgomery County Solid Waste District and PNC Bank. Activities include:

• The Dayton Regional Green 3 Initiative will host fun and educational activities and booths to promote greener and more sustainable practices in the Dayton region.

• The Montgomery County Solid Waste District’s two mascots, Curby the Cardinal and Lucky the Ladybug, will be on hand, as well as its Extreme Recycling trailer.

• The Dayton Art Institute will lead a community art mural-making project using recyclable materials.

• Zoot Theatre Company will demonstrate its larger puppets and visitors will have an opportunity to create masks out of reused and found materials.

• Visitors can ride a segway, courtesy of Dayton Segway Tours; chalk the street; have their picture taken in an open-air photo booth, courtesy of Lift-Off Entertainment; and check out an eco-friendly bus from Greater Dayton RTA and the eco-friendly Buick LaCrosse eAssist, courtesy of Bob Ross Buick.

• The Victoria Theatre Association will provide activities inspired by the Broadway musical Wicked.

Urban Bikes @ Urban Nights is a ride through the event’s action ending at Courthouse Square.

Urban Nights visitors can get around the event by participating in Urban Bikes @ Urban Nights, a community ride through downtown that starts at 6 p.m. at Don Crawford Plaza in front of Fifth Third Field. The best way to see as much as possible during Urban Nights is to walk, and many of the destinations are just a short distance from each other. Greater Dayton RTA also will provide free event trolleys to help visitors get around.

As visitors make their way through the Urban Nights action, those locals who are professional and amateur photographers and videographers are encouraged to capture some shots or footage to submit in the 2012 Downtown in Focus photo contest and a new video contest, Downtown on Film. This year’s photo contest will include a category highlighting downtown festivals and events, and the theme for the video contest will be “Summer in the City.” Details for both contests will be announced in early summer, with deadlines in August and winners announced at the Sept. 14 Urban Nights.

Live Entertainment on Six Stages

Roaming performers will entertain visitors throughout downtown and the Oregon Arts District, and stages will be set up throughout the Urban Nights area. A performance schedule follows:

Main Stage: Courthouse Square, sponsored by DP&L
5 to 5:50 p.m.                     Al Holbrook Band
5:50 to 6:10 p.m.              Circle Nerdz (breakdance crew)
6:10 to 7 p.m.                     Wheels
7 to 7:20 p.m.                    The Dropbacks (juggling duo)
7:20 to 8:10 p.m.              Hey There Morgan
8:10 to 8:30 p.m.               Soul Fire Tribe (fire dancers)
8:30 to 10 p.m.                   TOUCH

A variety of entertainment can be found on the Urban Nights stages.

Spotlight on Sinclair: Second and Jefferson streets by the Kettering Tower
5:30 to 5:50 p.m.               Sinclair Chamber Choir
6 to 6:20 p.m.                     Sinclair Opera & Musical Theater Ensemble
6:30 to 6:50 p.m.               Sinclair “Classical Café”
7 to 7:30 p.m.                     Sinclair Men’s & Women’s Ensembles
7:30 to 8 p.m.                     Sinclair Chorale
8 to 8:30 p.m.                     Sinclair Chamber Choir
8:30 to 9 p.m.                     Sinclair Gospel Ensemble
9 to 9:30 p.m.                     Sinclair Men’s Ensemble
9:30 to 10 p.m.                  Sinclair Gospel Ensemble

Community Stage: Corner of Third and Jefferson streets
Special thanks to Harvey Lehrner, owner of Don’s Pawn Shop, for use of the parking lot.
5 to 7 p.m.                           Performances by people from the community
7 to 10 p.m.                        Open call karaoke

MetroParks Pavilion at RiverScape MetroPark: Monument Avenue and Patterson Boulevard
5 to 5:30 p.m.                     Funklab
5:30 to 6:30 p.m.              Okay Lindon
6:30 to 7 p.m.                     Party Pleasers (DJ)
7 to 8 p.m.                            Son del Caribe
8 to 8:30 p.m.                     Party Pleasers (DJ)
8:30 to 10 p.m.                  Mojo Flo

Live on Five: In the historic Oregon Arts District next to the Trolley Stop 
6 to 6:45 p.m.                     David Burris
7 to 7:45 p.m.                    White Rabbit Band
8 to 8:45 p.m.                     Nasty Bingo
9 to 9:45 p.m.                     Ape the Ghost

Wright Dunbar Entertainment: Third and Williams streets
The Plaza Stage:
5:30 to 9 p.m.                     Tribute bands featuring the music of Jimi Hendrix, Santana and Bob Marley
The Lounge:
6 p.m.                                    Cyrstal Echols and line dancing
7:30 p.m.                             Big Gil and his Funky All Stars featuring Valeria
Grillin’ & Chillin’ Tent:
5 to 10 p.m.                        Master G spinning music for the dance tent
Gospel Karaoke Cafe:
5 to 8 p.m.                           Open mic with music by DJ Jerry Sanders

Art and More for Everyone

Art is at the heart of Urban Nights and often can be found in unexpected places.

In addition to the Green Street Project, several Urban Nights venues will host activities fun for the young and young at heart. Visitors can get their hands dirty at K12 Gallery for Young People/TEJAS,510 E. Third St., by working on the community art project the Xenia Avenue Mosaic Mural. Participants will have their name added to a plaque dedicated to the volunteers who helped with the project.

Garden Station on the corner of Fourth and Wayne will host a Rock Band challenge and an urban putt-putt golf course made of pallets and old tires. The CADC, formerly the Cannery Art and Design Center, will celebrate its grand re-opening in its new location at 35 S. St. Clair St. with art, games and more. My Father’s House Childcare and Learning Center,35 S. Jefferson St., will host entertainment by a clown and offer balloon animals for children and free snow cones. The Dayton Metro Library,215 E. Third St., will offer arts and entertainment for adults and children. At the Dayton Art Institute, 456 Belmonte Park North, visitors can enjoy free parking and family activities.

Tour some of downtown’s historical places during Urban Nights, including The Dayton Woman’s Club,225 N. Ludlow St., a landmark Victorian home circa 1848, and the 107-year-old First Lutheran Church,138 W. First St. Of course, lots of history can be found in the Wright-Dunbar Business Village. Hop on the Wright Flyer trolley and celebrate Dayton’s rich cultural legacy at multiple locations in this historic area along West Third Street between Broadway and Williams streets. Visit the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park and the Wright Bros. Bicycle Shop; visit business open houses; and experience art, poetry, food and live entertainment.

Visitors also can tour Activated Spaces’ Street Level Art Competition. Check out local artists’ displays of works focused on the theme “Naturally Dayton” in windows throughout downtown. Vote for your favorite artist by scanning the QR code in the respective storefront window. The Urban Nights People’s Choice winner will receive gallery space for an exhibition of his or her work at a local gallery or restaurant. Artwork can be viewed at:

• 100 E. Third St.: Bethany Ramsey, Robin Dakin and Amanda Sue Allen
• Talbott Tower, 131 N. Ludlow St.: Philipe Payne, Talia Shade and Spire Arts/Montgomery County Board of Developmental Disabilities Services
• Main Street Garage, corner of Main and First streets: Mikee Huber and John Murphy
• The Biltmore, 210 N. Main St.: Dayton Creative Syndicate

While you’re touring about, check out some of downtown’s living options. The following housing units will be open:

• The Cannery Lofts,500 E. Third St.
• First Place,330 W. First St.
• The Landing,115 W. Monument Ave.
• Litehouse Living at Canal Block,135 N. Patterson Blvd.
• Patterson Square Townhomes,237 E. First St.
• St. Clair Lofts,35 S. St. Clair St.

Grown-Ups’ Night Out

Visitors never know what they might see during Urban Nights.

For those families who’d rather drop off the kids before exploring Urban Nights, Mini University at Miami Valley Hospital, 28 Hill St., and Montgomery County’s Mini University, 40 Vista View Dr., will offer discounted childcare. Care will be offered from 6 to 11 p.m., which includes dinner, for $30 per child or $50 for two children. All teachers have been fingerprinted and have completed background checks. Children must be pre-registered; call and reserve a spot at 224-3916.

And for those who’d like to get an early start on Urban Nights ― or stay late ― several venues will host events that fit the bill. The Crowne Plaza Hotel’s Stars Lounge will host “Start and Finish,” a dinner event to bookend Urban Nights, in the rooftop restaurant and lounge. From 4 to 6 p.m., enjoy a happy hour buffet of hors d’oeuvres, free to all bar guests. Join the “10 O’Clock Cast Party” from 10 p.m. to midnight for half-priced light dinners, including burgers, sandwiches and wings. In addition, the bars, restaurants and nightclubs in the Oregon Arts District and throughout downtown will keep the Urban Nights party going past 10 p.m. Click here for a complete list of downtown’s nightlife hotspots.

A weekend-long event also will open during Urban Nights and continue after the event ends. The Dayton Circus Creative Collective will host its seventh annual multimedia arts event, Sideshow 7, at the Yellow Cab building, 700 E. Fourth St. This two-day multimedia arts and music extravaganza includes an event after-party until 1 a.m.

Shop for a variety of one-of-a-kind items, such as original artwork; used and vintage clothing, furniture, records and books; gift items and much more. More than 20 stores downtown will offer sales and special events. Be sure to visit the new Pop-Up Shops:

• American π, 37 S. St. Clair St.: This gift and accessories boutique carries items made in the United States, including handbags, greeting cards, candles and food items.
• Arin 27 S. St. Clair St.: Shop owner and jewelry designer Brooke Medlin collaborates with Dayton’s creatives to showcase beautifully designed goods for self and home, along with Medlin’s line of jewelry. Visitors will be able to watch the creation process in action at Arin’s on-site studio.
• Vintage Barbershop 110 W. Fifth St.: This old-school, classic barbershop offers haircuts, hot steam towel shaves, facials and more.

Of course, all this running is bound to make a person hungry ― and thirsty. More than 30 downtown restaurants, taverns, coffee shops and nightclubs will get into the Urban Nights spirit by offering themed drinks and menu items, special discounts, hosting arts events, and more. For example, look for volunteers from the City of Dayton’s Sister Cities outside Boulevard Haus, 329 E. Fifth St.; check out brewing demos at Press, 257 Wayne Ave.; try one of the more than 60 bourbons and view an exhibit of sculptures by artist Ron Hundt at The Century Bar,10 S. Jefferson St.; try a pint from a firkin of craft beer at Lucky’s Taproom & Eatery,520 E. Fifth St.; and enjoy music by Puzzle of Light at Jay’s Seafood, 225 E. Sixth St.

Urban Nights is presented by the Downtown Dayton Partnership, Montgomery County and the City of Dayton, with additional support from PNC Bank, Montgomery County Solid Waste District, DP&L, Greater Dayton RTA, Bud Light Lime, the Downtown Priority Board, Sinclair Community College, Mix 107.7-FM and the Ohio Arts Council.

Follow Urban Nights on Facebook at www.facebook.com/UrbanNightsDayton for regular updates and more information or call 937-224-1518.

Ira Brukner Exhibit at Blue Sky Gallery

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Medusa Does My Hair, Oil on Panel, 2004

Yellow Springs resident Ira Brukner is a rare example of a self-taught/outsider painter whose imagery is entirely non-objective. His large, powerful canvases recall the Abstract Expressionist gesture painters of the 1950’s, with whom he closely identifies. Like others in the current generation of outsider painters, Brukner is constantly poring through art books, studying painters from the past with whom he feels a kinship. Working obsessively in a corner of his small apartment, he has crammed his living space with a remarkable, decade-long output of lush, expressive paintings. In recent years, he has also begun working in a smaller support format—X-ray negatives—upon which he applies paint in his signature action style.

Ira will be showing his work at Blue Sky Gallery (33 N. Main Street in Courthouse Square next to Boston Stoker) between now and June 15th (open M-F 10 am-4 pm), with an Artist Reception on May 4 from 5-8 pm and again during Urban Nights on May 11 from 5-10 pm.

Blue Sky Project is an internationally-competitive summer artist residency and youth collaborative. Founded and operated from 2005 — 2008 in McHenry County, Illinois, the program is now housed at the University of Dayton, in partnership with the College of Arts and Sciences and ArtStreet.  Visit BlueSkyDayton.org for more info.

WYSO – Movin’ On Up

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Public Radio station 91.3 WYSO in Yellow Springs began broadcasting from new studios on Tuesday May first at noon.

Since 1995, the station has been housed in Sontag Fels Hall on the campus of Antioch College.  The new studios are located across the street in the former Kettering Laboratories at 150 East South College Street.  The building belongs to Antioch University and until recently housed their central administrative offices.   “The new studios will expand our capacity to make local programs, and we’re totally focused on that,” says Neenah Ellis, WYSO General Manager.  The new broadcast studios were funded by Antioch University with supplementary funds the Public Telecommunications Facilities Program.

WYSO began broadcasting in 1958, with studios on the second floor of the College student union building.  The new facility is its third location.

On Tuesday May first, the switch to the new studios will take place at noon, during “Excursions”  hosted by WYSO Music Director Niki Dakota.  “Listeners will be able to hear the old studio transmitter link shutdown and the new one start up,”  says Ellis.  “We expect to be off the air for less than a minute.”

91.3 WYSO is licensed to Antioch University.  It carries  programming from NPR, Public Radio International, American Public Media and others, in addition to 40 hours of locally- produced programming weekly. It distributes programs on multiple platforms: FM, HD,  via on-line streaming at www.wyso.org and on the Public Radio Player for iPhone users and the NPR News App for Android users.

Sinclair Theatre Presents The Laramie Project

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Laramie Cast (l to r): Matt Turner, Matthew Smith, Angela Dermer, Robb Willoughby, Rachel Wilson, John Ray and Chris Hammond. (kneeling) Cydnie Hampton and John Dunn

Sinclair Theatre will present the deeply moving drama, The Laramie Project, May 18-26 in Blair Hall Theatre, building 2, Sinclair’s downtown Dayton campus.

The play, by Moisés Kaufman and Members of The Tectonic Theater Project and directed by Scott Stoney, is a powerful portrait of one town’s healing in the face of terrible tragedy. Five weeks after Matthew Shepard was kidnapped, beaten and left to die on the outskirts of Laramie, WY, members of the Tectonic Theater Project traveled to the small town to begin a series of more than 200 interviews with its residents. The result was The Laramie Project, a poignant and deeply moving play that showcases man’s capacity for both brutal intolerance and breathtaking compassion.

Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., one Sunday May 20th matinee at 2 p.m., a Wednesday, May 23rd 10 a.m. school matinee and a Downtown Dayton Thursday Nights performance at 7 p.m. on May 24th.  (Click Here to view entire schedule on the DMM Event Calendar)

All seats are reserved and cost $15 adults and $10 for students/seniors.  For more information or to purchase tickets online now go to: Sinclair.edu/tickets. Box office opens May 11th 11-3 Monday through Friday and one hour prior to performances. 937-512-2808. ALL Thursday tickets cost an additional $5 each and include pre-show appetizers and cash bar for Sinclair’s popular Downtown Dayton Thursday Nights.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hgkwl6Zi4VQ’]

SUP on the water this summer!

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SUPing in Dayton (ok, this isn't Dayton but you get the picture)

The increasingly popular sport of stand up paddleboarding (SUP) is sweeping the Miami Valley.  Cruising around local waterways is fun and easy to get out and play on the water for all ages. You can paddle anything from lakes and rivers to the ocean—no waves required.

Anyone who has been on a SUP can tell you it is an amazing full body workout and provides an excellent cross-training activity for skiers, snowboarders, cyclists, runners and other athletes. While standing up you all get a new perspective and view of the natural surrounding you might not get while sitting down. It’s almost like walking on water!

What You Need To Get Started:

  • Stand up paddleboard: By far the biggest investment. Sizes are based on the paddler’s weight and experience. More experienced and lighter paddlers can choose narrower boards. Novice paddlers should choose wider, flatter boards, which offer more stability.
  • Paddle: Yes, they are different. They have an angle or “elbow” in the shaft for maximum efficiency, are much longer since you are standing up and are usually taller than the paddler themselves (roughly 6” to 8” taller than you are)
  • PFD (Personal Flotation Device): No matter what you are paddling, you should wear one, and that includes a SUP.  The U.S. Coast Guard classifies stand up paddleboards as vessels, so always wear a PFD whenever you’re paddling navigable water.
  • Proper clothing: For cold conditions where hypothermia is a concern, wear a wetsuit or dry suit. In milder conditions, wear shorts and a T-shirt or bathing suit—something that moves with you and can get wet.
  • Sun protection: Wear sunscreen, sunglasses.

 

Where to buy, rent, or try in the Miami Valley

Whitewater Warehouse, fulfilling the regions paddle sports needs for years.  Located in downtown Dayton. Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) Demo – Sunday, June 3

Great Miami Outfitters, where you can find anything to suite your next adventure in the heart of Miamisburg

 

Here is a great video to show you what it is all about and some tips to get started.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WakICTRuWoI’]

 

Mint Tradition

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The pageantry. The tradition. The hats. This weekend represents the first major event in horse racing, The Kentucky Derby. Not only is it a huge event in the horse racing season, it is the first jewel in the Triple Crown. People come from far and wide to Louisville, KY to see the “most exciting two minutes in sports”. And while they are there, they consume 120,000 of what is considered the drink of the Kentucky Derby, and the south in general, the mint julep.

While the mint julep has been associated with the Derby since 1938, the history of the drink goes back further than that. The word “julep” comes from the Persian word “golab”, which is a sweetened rose water, sometimes used as a health tonic. There are some mentions of it in books at the beginning of the 19th century, and Oxford University  has been celebrating a Mint Julep Day, around the first of June, since 1845. The ingredients of the cocktail have also morphed over the years, starting as a brandy based drink, and then switching to rye whiskey before finally arriving at the spirit of Kentucky, bourbon. It is the bourbon version of it that we will all be sipping on this weekend.

In the hot and muggy south, there is no question how this drink became so popular. It is served well chilled, not only with crushed ice instead of ice cubes, but in a chilled metal glass. The glass is also designed to be held around the base, so body heat does not leach any of the chill from the beverage. The mint, which is present but not overwhelming, adds to the frosty feel on your palate. And of course, the star of the show is the bourbon, sweet and delicious. If you want to truly make the official cocktail of the Kentucky Derby, you will be using Early Times (which is actually a Kentucky whisky) or Woodford Reserve. If you want to go all out, serve it in a gold cup with a silver straw, and charge $1000 for it. Yes, that happens.

Below is A recipe for the mint julep. You can search the web far and wide, and you will find variations of it all over. This variation was the most common, and the simplest to prepare.

The Mint Julep

2 sprigs of mint, preferably spearmint
.75 oz. simple syrup (recipe included)
2.5 oz. bourbon (Early Times whisky or Woodford Reserve for the official version)

Muddle one sprigful of mint leaves at the bottom of a mixing glass in the simple syrup, crushing the leaves but not tearing them. You are just looking to release the oil in the leaves. Add your bourbon, swirl it a few times, then strain the contents into a frosted glass filled with crushed ice. The thinner the glass, the better it will frost over. Stir the contents, and then add more crushed ice to top it off. Hold the glass at the bottom, to make sure the glass and contents stay properly cold.

Simple Syrup

1 cup of water
1 cup of sugar

Combine the water and sugar a pan, and mix over medium heat until all the sugar is dissolved. You can make smaller quantities in a similar 1:1 ratio. See, simple.

(Original publish date: 5/7/2011)