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Archives for October 2012

Giovanni’s: The Fairborn Legend

October 18, 2012 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

With Halloween approaching, many people are stopping at the costume shops in Fairborn.  But The Big Ragu suggests you make another stop, Giovanni’s Pizzeria & Italian Restaurant.  Located at 215 W. Main Street, this place has been a Fairborn icon for decades.   Since 1953, this local favorite has been serving up pizzas and pasta dishes that will make your mouth water.  Originally owned by Giovanni DiPasquale, the restaurant was purchased by Tony Spaziani in 1994.  Soon after the menu and dining rooms were expanded and they even started a full in-house bakery.  This bakery allows for fresh bread, pasta and dough to be made on premises.  It also allows for homemade desserts that are nothing short of amazing.  Many things at Giovanni’s are made from scratch, the way they ought to be, to guarantee fresh tasting food.

The restaurant is always bustling and the servers are friendly and caring.  In fact, our waiter was the pastry chef, who waits tables on Sunday to stay in tune with customer feedback while making some extra dough .. pun intended.

During our Food Adventures, we have tried the sandwiches and the pastas.   We especially liked the Chicken Parmesan and the Gnocchi.   You can really tell the sandwich bread and pasta is made on site, the taste is amazing and homemade.  The same can be said about their homemade cheesecakes, cannoli, and tiramisu, all produced at the in-house bakery.

However, all the locals know that the main attraction at Giovanni’s is their pizza.  A semi-thin crust pizza with a unique tasting sauce makes each pie simply scrumptious.  The fresh, delicious toppings offered are plentiful on each pizza.  They even have anchovies for the true Italian style Food Adventurer in you.  Of course, all the dough for the pizzas are made on site, which is noticed on each bite into the crunchy crust.  The prices are reasonable and the product is good.  They even offer 7 inch personal pizzas with up to 3 toppings for less than 6 bucks during lunch time.

The food speaks for itself so check out the photos and click on them to get a larger, tastier view.  Visit this mom and pop restaurant in Fairborn, and find out for yourself what the legend is all about.

Please “like” Food Adventures and follow The Big Ragu, Hungry Jax and Chef House on Facebook by clicking  HERE ! 

 

 

Filed Under: Food Adventures, The Featured Articles Tagged With: anchovies, Big Ragu, chicken parmesan, Fairborn, Food Adventure, Food Adventures, Giovanni's, gnocchi, Italian restaurant, pasta, pizza

Coming Up in Cincinnati Theatre: Oct. 15-21

October 18, 2012 By Rob Bucher Leave a Comment

…BLINK AND YOU’LL MISS

BYE BYE BIRDIE

Children’s Theatre of Mason

The Story: It’s the late 1950s and teenagers from across the United States are going crazy for the handsome rock star, Conrad Birdie. But Conrad has received his draft notice and is about to be inducted into the army!! His manager, Albert Peterson, has staked his financial future on Conrad’s success. Albert’s secretary, Rosie, becomes fed-up with Albert’s lack of a marriage proposal and with his hilarious mother! Thus, as a final publicity stunt, Albert arranges for Conrad to kiss one lucky fan on the Ed Sullivan Show before he leaves for the army. Kim MacAfee, from Sweet Apple, Ohio, is the lucky girl. But conflict arises when her boyfriend, Hugo Peabody, gets jealous and Kim’s dad wants to be on the Ed Sullivan show.
The Dates:
 Oct. 19-21, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Children’s Theatre of Mason | BTC page |

OVER THE RIVER AND THROUGH THE WOODS

Mad Anthony Theatre Company

The Story: Love of family is the mantra that runs throughout this endearingly warm-hearted comedy. At the heart of the plot is a tight-knit Italian-American family. Nick is a marketing executive who dutifully visits his four grandparents every Sunday for dinners which are governed by “the three F’s”—family, faith, and food. One Sunday he has an exciting, though devastating announcement: He’s being promoted to a new position in Seattle. As Nick is their only relative left in the area, the prospect of losing him calls for some heavy Golden-Ager artillery.
The Dates:
 Oct. 17-21, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Mad Anthony Theatre Company | BTC page |

…OPENING THIS WEEK

BLUE MAN GROUP

Broadway in Cincinnati

The Story: BLUE MAN GROUP is best known for their wildly popular theatrical shows and concerts which combine comedy, music, and technology to produce a totally unique form of entertainment. The New York Times heralds the show as “One of the most delightful performance pieces ever staged.” E! Entertainment News exclaims, “Blue Man Group is what every live performance aspires to be.” The Baltimore Sun raves, “Blue Man Group packs a wallop. It’s a big, loud, funny, silly, visually arresting production!”
The Dates:
 Oct. 16-28, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Broadway in Cincinnati | BTC page |

BRIGHTON  BEACH MEMOIRS

Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park

The Story: It’s 1937, and 15-year-old Eugene Morris Jerome lives in close quarters with his extended family. While the daily dramas of his parents, brother, cousins and aunt swirl around him, Eugene spends his days dreaming of playing for his beloved Yankees … when he’s not thinking about girls or setting the table for dinner. Neil Simon’s semi-autobiographical play is a heartfelt love letter to his own Jewish childhood and proof that family harmonies and disharmonies transcend time and place.
The Dates:
 Oct. 13-Nov. 10, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park | BTC page |

HAIRSPRAY

Xavier University

The Story: The 1950s are out and change is in the air!  Based on the movie of the same name, the newly combined Department of Music and Theater is proud to present HAIRSPRAY, winner of 9 Tony Awards including Best Musical. HAIRSPRAY is a family-friendly musical piled bouffant-high with laughter, romance, and deliriously tuneful songs.
The Dates:
 Oct. 19-27, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Xavier University | BTC page |

I DO! I DO!

Covedale Center for the Performing Arts

The Story: The show begins with Michael and Agnes on their wedding day and traces their life together over a period of 50 years, until the day they leave their house to the next pair of newlyweds. In that time we watch them go through their wedding night jitters, raise a family, negotiate mid-life crises, quarrel, separate, reconcile and grow old together, all lovingly to the strains of a tuneful, charming score which includes the standard “My Cup Runneth Over.”
The Dates:
 Oct. 18-Nov. 11, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Covedale Center for the Performing Arts | BTC page |

THE LARAMIE PROJECT

CenterStage Players of Ohio

The Story: On October 6th of 1998 Matthew Shepard was beaten and left to die tied to a fence in the outskirts of Laramie, Wyoming. He died six days later. His torture and murder became a watershed historical moment in America that highlighted many of the fault lines in our culture…
The Dates:
 Oct. 19-27, 2012
Tickets and More Information: CenterStage Players of Ohio | BTC page |

THE PASSION OF DRACULA

Beechmont Players Inc

The Story: This new take on the Dracula legend earns rave reviews due to its artful mixture of romance, classic gothic drama and, at times, nearly farcical comedy. It’s 1911 in the English countryside, site of the ominous Whitby Sanatorium. Several villagers have died mysteriously after the arrival of a reclusive foreigner. Coincidence? According to the notable scientist Dr. Van Helsing, Count Dracula is a threat to humanity and must be destroyed! Follow Van Helsing and his compatriots as they battle the powerful vampire to keep him from stealing the soul of the lovely heroine.
The Dates:
 Oct. 19-27, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Beechmont Players Inc | BTC page |

SEALED FOR FRESHNESS

Falcon Theatre

The Story: A hilarious comedy set at a 1968 Tupperware party gone awry! Filled with a combination of outrageous humor and serious themes, this play is a wonderful look back at the life of a 1960s housewife and a celebration of how far we’ve come. This show contains adult language and subject matter.
The Dates:
 Oct. 18-27, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Falcon Theatre | BTC page |

SEE HOW THEY RUN

Oxford Area Community Theatre

The Story: Set in the idyllic village of Merton-cum-Middlewick in 1940s England, the village inhabitants are preparing themselves for the imminent threat of Nazi invasion. Resident nosy-parker and spinster, Miss Skillon, becomes convinced that her beloved vicar’s actress wife is having an affair and attempts to expose her. Add an escaped German prisoner of war, a handsome actor, the visiting Bishop of Lax, a rotund locum priest and some meddling neighbors and hilarious confusion and mayhem result.
The Dates:
 Oct. 18-28, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Oxford Area Community Theatre | BTC page |

SEUSSICAL JR

Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati

The Story: This fantastical, magical, musical extravaganza features favorite Dr. Seuss characters, including: Horton the Elephant, The Cat in the Hat, Lazy Mayzie, and all of the Whos of Whoville! Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty (Lucky Stiff, My Favorite Year, Once On This Island, and Ragtime) have lovingly brought to life these classic, colorful tales, brought together by Jojo, a young boy and “thinker of strange and wonderful thinks!” As each story unfolds, audiences will marvel at how relevant and profound Seuss’s subtle themes are, making this musical appealing to all ages.
The Dates:
 Oct. 19-27, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati | BTC page |

TITUS ANDRONICUS

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company

The Story: One of the bloodiest plays in the canon, Titus Andronicus is full to the brim with revenge, murder, betrayal and crimes most atrocious. Titus Andronicus evokes startling, gruesome and tragic imagery as the mighty Roman general Titus faces off with his mortal enemy, Tamora, Queen of the Goths. Titus and Tamora, in a spiral of bloody revenge, trade murder for hideous murder, each more brutal than the last.
The Dates:
 Oct. 20-Nov. 11, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cincinnati Shakespeare Company | BTC page |

…CONTINUING THIS WEEK

A BRIGHT NEW BOISE

Clifton Players

The Story: In the bleak, corporate breakroom of a craft store in Idaho, someone is summoning The Rapture. Will, who has fled his rural hometown after a scandal at his Evangelical church, comes to the Hobby Lobby, not only for employment, but also to rekindle a relationship with Alex, his brooding teenage son, whom he gave up for adoption several years ago. Alex works there along with Leroy, his adopted brother and protector and Anna, a hapless young woman who reads bland fiction but hopes for dramatic endings. As their manager, foul-mouthed Pauline, tries ceaselessly to find order (and profit) in the chaos of small business, these lost souls of the Hobby Lobby confront an unyielding world through the beige-tinted impossibility of modern faith.
The Dates:
 Oct. 12-28, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Clifton Players | BTC page |

KING O’ THE MOON

Sunset Players

The Story: A hilarious, heartfelt sequel to OVER THE TAVERN. The Pazinski family has left the conservative 1950s for the rebellious 1960s. But prior knowledge of this working-class family is not a prerequisite to appreciating their ongoing trials and triumphs. As Apollo 11 is about to land on the moon, Rudy is rethinking the priesthood, Eddie is preparing for fatherhood and Vietnam, Annie is contemplating divorce and their mother, Ellen, considers a new romance. The Dates: Oct. 12-27, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Sunset Players | BTC page |

MRS. MANNERLY

Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati

The Story: This irreverent, yet poignant comedy is inspired by the hilarious memories of a childhood etiquette class, wherein playwright Jeffrey Hatcher conjures up the world of a ten-year-old studying manners. Set in 1967, Mrs. Mannerly is a demanding teacher, and no student in her thirty-six years of etiquette classes has ever achieved a perfect score. But, when he discovers her secret past, Young Jeffrey is determined to be the first to achieve this feat. This unique comic tale reveals truths about the face we present and the real selves that lie inside.
The Dates:
 Oct. 10-28, 2012 Tickets and More Information: Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati | BTC page |

ROMEO AND JULIET

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company

The Story: The tale of the Bard’s star crossed lovers, brought to life in a modern world of passion and conflict. In defiance of their families and amidst the animosity of friends, a young couple will risk everything to be together. Receiving a contemporary staging, this production proves its continued relevance in the lives of young and old alike throughout the ages. The Dates: Oct. 12-Nov. 11, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cincinnati Shakespeare Company | BTC page |

…CLOSING THIS WEEK

SNOOPY THE MUSICAL

The Drama Workshop

The Story: This lighthearted, musical romp through the Peanuts canon features Charlie Brown, Sally, Lucy, Linus, Peppermint Patty, Woodstock, and, of course, Snoopy! A charming, warm-hearted musical, Snoopy! The Musical is full of humor and life lessons. The musical features scenes taken from memorable sequences right out of the beloved comic strip, ranging from The Great Pumpkin to the psychiatrist’s office. Perfect for the entire family!
The Dates:
 Oct. 5-21, 2012
Tickets and More Information: The Drama Workshop | BTC page |

THROUGH THE NIGHT

Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park

The Story: This tour-de-force solo performance embodies the stories of six African-American men, ranging in age from 10 to 60, whose lives are intertwined in beautiful and unexpected ways during one life-changing evening. Dayton native Daniel Beaty’s signature style displays a dazzling blend of humor, poetry, music and drama that earned him Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle award nominations. Transcending race and gender, THROUGH THE NIGHT is a hard-hitting and inspirational story filled with possibility and promise.
The Dates:
 Sept. 22-Oct. 21, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park | BTC page |

…COMING SOON

CHESS

UC College-Conservatory of Music

The Dates: Oct. 25-28, 2012
Tickets and More Information: UC College-Conservatory of Music | BTC page |

FLIPZOIDS

Miami University

The Dates: Oct. 24-28, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Miami University | BTC page |

THE INVESTMENT CLUB

PLOTT Performers

The Dates: Oct. 26-Nov. 3, 2012
Tickets and More Information: PLOTT Performers | BTC page |

PROOF

CenterStage Players Inc.

The Dates: Oct. 25-Nov. 3, 2012
Tickets and More Information: CenterStage Players Inc | BTC page |

THE ROYAL GAMBIT

Northern Kentucky University

The Dates: Oct. 25-Nov. 4, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Northern Kentucky University | BTC page |

Filed Under: Cincinnati, On Stage Dayton Previews

SEARCHING FOR SUGAR MAN & Digital News at THE NEON

October 17, 2012 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

All of us at THE NEON have been working long hours the past several days, and I hope you’re able to discern this newsletter – my eyelids are quite heavy as I type this note. As soon as the benefit was over on Sunday night, we began prepping our projection booth, auditoriums and lobby for some major changes and improvements. On Monday morning, the 35mm projection gear was removed, and new digital projectors (and servers and cases and lenses and cables and monitors and…) began to arrive that afternoon. While technicians have been preparing our new system, the staff has been busy painting, cleaning and painting some more. Our old carpet is being torn up right now, and the new carpet will be laid this afternoon.

Sunday’s benefit was a big success! Thanks so much to all of you who attended. We set our limit to 120 tickets…and we sold the 120th ticket just as the party was getting started. Additional thanks to everyone who made a donation to our cause! Our goal for fundraising was set at $25,000, and we’re currently at $22,160. That’s really wonderful!

On Friday, we will open with all new digital projection. While we will hold onto our last two titles – SLEEPWALK WITH ME and ARBITRAGE – we’ll also open a new documentary that has been a huge hit on the festival circuit. SEARCHING FOR SUGAR MAN is part mystery part historical document, and music lovers can’t get enough.

Synopsis for SEARCHING FOR SUGAR MAN: “Searching for Sugar Man tells the incredible true story of Rodriguez, the greatest ’70s rock icon who never was. Discovered in a Detroit bar in the late ’60s by two celebrated producers struck by his soulful melodies and prophetic lyrics, they recorded an album which they believed would secure his reputation as the greatest recording artist of his generation. In fact, the album bombed and the singer disappeared into obscurity amid rumors of a gruesome on-stage suicide. But a bootleg recording found its way into apartheid South Africa and, over the next two decades, he became a phenomenon. The film follows the story of two South African fans who set out to find out what really happened to their hero. Their investigation leads them to a story more extraordinary than any of the existing myths about the artist known as Rodriguez.” (Sony Pictures Classics) Click this link to visit the official site.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tDw7OqVBT-w’]

“Help support DATV and be inspired by short films that aim to make a difference in our lives. DATV presents the MEDIA THAT MATTERS SHORT FILM FESTIVAL on Thursday, November 8th at 7:30pm, at THE NEON in Downtown Dayton. The MEDIA THAT MATTERS SHORT FILM FESTIVAL is the premier national showcase for short films on the most important topics of the day. The films engagediverse audiences and inspires them to take action. The festival features 12 jury selected short films that tackle a broad range of social issues with humor, humanity and honesty in 12 minutes or less.” (provided by DATV) Tickets are $10 each, and we have a few available at our box office and on DATV’s site. For more details about the event and the films, visit the official site.

Though we’ve got lots to still learn (training on the new projection equipment will begin this afternoon), this weekend marks the start of a new era for THE NEON – the culmination of months worth or research and preparation. We hope to see you soon.

Thanks so much for your ongoing support!
All the best,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Fri. Oct. 19 – Sun. Oct. 25:

ARBITRAGE (R) 1 Hr 47 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 5:15, 9:30
Monday – Thursday: 5:15

SLEEPWALK WITH ME (NR) 1 Hrs 30 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 3:10, 7:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:10, 7:30

SEARCHING FOR SUGAR MAN (PG-13) 1 Hr 26 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:30, 8:00

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative. Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear
very soon – KILLER JOE
very soon – LIBERAL ARTS
Nov. ? SAMSARA
Nov. 16 (2 weeks only) – A LATE QUARTET
Nov. 21 – THE SESSIONS
Nov. 30 – ANNA KARENINA

Filed Under: On Screen Dayton Tagged With: 35mm, a late quartet, anna karenina, arbitrage, Dayton Ohio, digital conversion, digital projection, helen hunt, john hawkes, killer joe, liberal arts, rodriguez, samsara, searching for sugar man, sleepwalk with me, The Neon, the sessions

A Second Helping of Cupcake Wars for Local Bakery

October 17, 2012 By Lisa Grigsby 1 Comment

Brittany Moore, owner of Moore Dessert Please!,and her mother Tina will team up for a special mother-daughter episode of the hit show for the chance to have their cupcakes on display at an exclusive event for

Brittany Moore

teen pop star Cody Simpson. You may remember reading about their last appearance on the Food Network show this past spring, where the team finished in second place.   The show will air this Sunday night at 8pm.

Moore Dessert Please! will be offering Cupcake War themed specials all week long at their storefront on 1003 Shroyer Road.  There daily menu features 8-10 flavored cupcakes from a rotating menu of 35 flavors. You’ll also find brownies, cookies, cake pops and more at their store.

 

 

 

 

 

Filed Under: Dayton Dining Tagged With: Brittany Moore, cupcake wars, Moore Dessert Please

BeardCon 2012 – At Their Beardest

October 17, 2012 By Shana Lloyd Leave a Comment

(Editor note: after reading Shana’s post-BeardCon article, be sure to read our pre-BeardCon 2012 feature “BeardCon: The Cutting Edge Of A Hairy Subject” by J.T. Ryder on the subject of the beard culture in Ohio and beyond)

Anyone who knows me is painfully aware of my obsession with beards. Through it’s continues rise and fall, the trend of facial hair is something I’ll never cease to adore about men. Those manly enough to grow one that is. So of course, I was ecstatic when approached by Dayton Most Metro to attend BeardCon as their media correspondent to cover this momentous event. At the risk of sounding ridiculous, it may or may not have been one of the best days for me in 2012 and I am grateful to have been given the opportunity to attend.

Both a learning experience and a pleasure to attend, BeardCon Ohio’s Third Charity Beard and Mustache Competition and Festival took place on October 6th in Columbus. Their promise? To see, feel, learn about, and live facial hair at the first ever Beard Convention! Styling demos, facial hair product expos, beard games, an opportunity to meet some of the finest beardsmen (which I did) and beardswomen from all over the globe, all topped off by a grand beard and mustache competition to finish the night.

Over the course of history, men with facial hair have been ascribed various attributes such as wisdom, sexual virility, masculinity, or a higher status; says, Wikipedia. I just happen to find them sexy – from nicely trimmed to gnarly and outrageous. This beard lover does not discriminate. I could go on and on about my love for the bearded ones but I’m sure you’re more interested in the day, background and winners of the competition. I had an opportunity to sit down with Nate Stevens, one of the integral individuals in planning and hosting BeardCon and member of The Gem City Gentlemen of the Gilded Beard to ask a few questions. Nate’s a great guy and again, I’m thankful he took the time to speak with this drooling beard fan. Here’s the Beard deets:

Nate Stevens with a BeardCon 2011 participant

DMM: What is the true inspiration for the conferences?

Nate: “The reason for all of our events are essentially the same, and BeardCon is certainly no exception. When we started this club about 3 years ago, we established a few basic goals: to have fun, to foster unity amongst those who decide to wear facial hair, to promote acceptance of facial hair and derail discrimination, and most importantly, to support our local community and give it some small niche to be proud of. BeardCon is the culmination of a year of very hard work in pursuit of those objectives.”

DMM: How do you pick your themes and any idea what next year’s will be?

Nate: “We don’t necessarily set out to establish a theme each year, we just kind of start planning the event, and so far the ‘theme’ has more or less revealed itself to us. It sounds cliche to say that we let it happen ‘organically’, but that truly has been the case”

DMM: It’s not cliche at all, they’re quite creative geniuses these beards.  How was this year different than the last two? Did it live up to your expectation?

Nate: “It’s difficult to say at this point how successful the event was financially, as those details are still coming together. During the event, the core group of us are so busy making sure everything happens the way it’s supposed to, that the whole thing is a blur, and it’s tough to get a read on it until the aftermath begins to settle. What I can say is that the response from the attendees and the community has been SO positive, and that the new elements we introduced to this year’s event (discussion panels, styling demos, etc.) were a huge hit. The competition was, as always, just spectacular, and we are so grateful to our beloved state of Ohio and the facial hair community for helping us hit another home run this year.”

DMM: The convention left me impressed, sad I didn’t make the last two..but uber excited for 2013.  Why Prostate Cancer? Would you consider supporting other one issue causes in the future or do you have a personal connection to PC?

Nate: “Supporting Central Ohio Men Against Prostate Cancer made sense to us on a number of levels. First, I think it’s fair to say that prostate cancer is a man’s disease, and beards are a man’s gift from nature. Why not use the blessing to fight the curse? The disease has impacted some members of our club and their families, so there are those among us for whom the cause is more personal. Also, we aim for maximum impact with our charitable fundraising, so finding a smaller organization that combats a global affliction on a local scale was a perfect fit for us. We do, however, support other causes and organizations with other events, big and small, and are always open to new endeavors for the good of mankind.”

Bearded Philanthropists. Need I say more?

Among the vendors and wandering gild men there were also bearded ladies and bearded wee ones. Informative panels like in the video below were also a part of this awesome convention.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=dxhLpODj6jo’]

I will say that I feel a little self conscious about this healthy little beard obsession of mine, having met such great people at this convention. To come together for such a great cause is admirable; I give two thumbs up to them for making it fun to attend. Below is a list of winners from the competition. For more information and to find out when the next Bearded affair will happen, visit their site or “Like” Beard Team Ohio on Facebook. Whether Bearded or a fan like me, you don’t want to miss whatever remarkable event these dudes come up with for next year!

2012 Beard-Con Winners

Full Beard Styled:
1. John Buckler, Michigan
2. Lyman Robertson, Michigan
3. Chad Roberts, Virginia

Full Beard Natural
1. Neil Moherman, Ohio
2. Myk O’Connor, New York
3. Jeff Langum, New Jersey

Full Beard Groomed
1. Cody Corcoran, Tennessee
2. Kyle Muston, Michigan
3. Joel Andrus, Michigan

Partial Beard Styled
1. “Taxi” Phil Jones, Ohio
2. Colin Cousins, Ohio
3. Chris Newman, Ohio

Partial Beard Natural
1. Dan Roberts, New York
2. Dustin Hall, Ohio
3. Scotty “BigStyle” Lees, Ohio

Moustache Styled
1. Nathan Wilson, Wisconsin

Moustache Natural
1. Albert Dennis, Ohio
2. Sheraz Sadiq, Ohio

Fake Beard – Most Fantastic
1. Lindsey Stinner, California
2. Ashley Brown, Virginia
3. Emily Ann Fette, Kentucky

Fake Beard – Most Realistic
1. Micki Martin, Ohio
2. Deb Smith, Ohio
3. Mrs. Cousins, Ohio

Kids Fake Beard
1. Gavin Dunham, Ohio
2. Mya Harrel

See you next year Beards!

Filed Under: Community, The Featured Articles

Kickstarting Local Musical Projects With Fan Funding

October 16, 2012 By Juliet Fromholt Leave a Comment

Over the past year or so, we’ve seen several local bands turn to their fans for funding musical projects.  The Motel Beds, Me & Mountains and Jasper the Colossal are just 3 of the bands who have been able to release new material thanks to successful campaigns on Kickstarter. There are currently 4 great local music projects on Kickstarter*, some with a deadline just around the corner and one that’s just launched.

Deadline: October 22nd
Trey Stone’s first full studio album, Ahead of the Pack

Trey Stone is the former music director of Chicago’s famous Second City Theater.  He’s landed in Dayton, has been an active participant in the music scene for a while now and is looking to complete his first full length album. Stone has already begun the recording process at Dayton’s Cyberteknics Studio so project funding will go towards the mixing and mastering of final product. Ahead of the Pack will feature Stone’s blend of rock and roll and country with a bit of a funky New Orleans twist.

Deadline: October 26th
Help F.M. Records reach WORLD DOMINATION!

F.M. records goal is to help local and Midwestern bands reach both a local and larger audience through recording, pressing, and distribution, while keeping it all in house. Founder Dustie Pitstick says: “We have an insane amount of local talent, as we have for years. It’s time for everyone to realize that. By talent I mean bands, studio engineers, artists, shops to sell in, and some of the most loyal listeners anyone could ask for. We truly have all the key ingredients in Dayton, so why bother to snub all the great locals who help out and send our work elsewhere? We plan to keep everything in house, and really tap into the potential of a city big enough to have a great music scene, but still small enough to be a tight, self supporting collective… All while putting out diverse and amazing music from so many talented locals!”  Project funding will help F.M. Records stock up on the necessary supplies to release its first 4-8 albums, the profits from which will go toward funding future releases.

Mandy Jewell

Deadline: November 5th
Mandy Jewell’s 1st Professional Demo

Mandy Jewell has been part of the open-mic/Musicians’ Co-op scene in Dayton for many years and has a passion for songwriting, but she’s never released a recording of her music.  Jewell’s songs have an alt-country influence in the vein of Kathleen Edwards.  Project funding will go towards producing a full length album or an EP.

Deadline: December 10th
Triad a new album by James Murrell

Jazz guitarist James Murrell has been a staple of the local jazz scene for several years.  His new album, Triad aims to feature old and new material record in collaboration with local musician serving as guest performing and will be recorded in the Dayton area.  Short solo guitar pieces will also be featured on the album.  Project funding will go toward the recording and production costs for Triad.
To see videos and learn more about each of these projects, including the incentives for backers, visit Kickstarter and search for Dayton, OH.

*Note:  there currently aren’t any local music projects on Indiegogo, a funding site similar to Kickstarter, but there are quite a few local, independent film projects including Filmdayton’s Freak Club web series.  So if you’re looking to support local projects in other realms, check there as well.

Filed Under: Dayton Music Tagged With: Dayton Music, F.M. Records, Kickstarter.com, Mandy Jewell, Trey Stone

Confirmed Dead Dick Hammer Sighting at Daddy Katz

October 16, 2012 By Mike Ritchie Leave a Comment

In a year of predicted end of the world prophecies and reported zombie attacks it only makes sense that the epidemic of the undead makes it way to Ohio, in October no less. It appears some of the undead where purposely brought here for our entertainment. It’s been proven that some zombies still have the skills and talent they died with and can still move with reasonably descent mobility and rock star swagger.  They even play nice, unchained walking around, mingling with their human foo…, counterparts patiently watching them willingly lower/weaken their defenses with strong mind numbing beverages.  Throughout the show there were several patrons that slowly with particular unintentional precision began imitating the walking dead resembling the awkward pace established in many a zombie flick. Whether this mirrored behavior was some kind of voodoo zombie dust used by the band to ensure a midnight snack isn’t clear.

But what I can say is, everything was cool when I left, what happened after, I can’t account for. All I know is that I woke up in one piece, unscathed. I’ve attempted contact with several other people without luck. Memories are still foggy and I have dream like memories of an older gentleman running around half crazy before the alleged attack and Dead Dick delivering a baby on stage but then again, someone could’ve put Zombie Absinthe in my Coke without me knowing.  After a few pots of coffee and several email queries later the following is my best recollection of events that transpired. I can’t accurately describe or prove everything that happened that night really did but as a journalist I have a public duty and commitment to the truth that must be adhered to. So… this is what I remember.

 

The Loveless

Daddy Katz, next door to Truth & Triumph Tattoo is a retro shop specializing in vintage antiques, costumed culture and everything and anything cool brought in the best local rockabilly, blues and country acts Saturday October 6th for a crowd of whooping, hoot n hollerin’ good ole boys, hot inked up biker chicks, some nice kittens, a few skirts, a broad or two, a few greasers and of course…. zombies.  Kinda like Roadhouse but everyone was ‘nice’. The bonfire was blazing and the party was jiving in the old backdoor garage tonight.

The Loveless, named after Willem Dafoe’s first movie was the first group to perform with Dead Dick watching quietly in a dark shadowed corner. The three man jam started out feeling a little Devilish. Guitarists Bret Cottongim’s wolverine sideburns were shaved razor sharp ready to fend off attacks if needed. He did some fancy finger dancing on HellBound, Dead End and the Dead Dick Hammer approved Grave Robbin’ about a doomed cemetery snooper and his girlfriend going to a cemetery lookin’ for a dead rich guy and he ends up diggin’ his own grave. Never trust a dame in a graveyard slick. Upright bass player Tommy Kirkendall plucked the thick strings with precession ready to use the grandfather violin as a club if necessary.  Happy days were back again with some easy ridin’ rock and blues with a southern twang.

Miss Cherry Lee and the Hotrod Hounds

Up next for your listening pleasure ladies and gentlemen, Miss Cherry Lee & The Hotrod Hounds. Opening up the first three numbers, stood the man in black (from the waste up anyway). Then Miss Lee made her entrance singing with the spirit of Rockabilly’s first lady Wanda Jackson with a sassy, sultry, swing.  They played tribute to the pioneers and forefathers of the genre as they rocked this town back to the good ole 50’s. She takes Kim Lentz’s fiery redhead flare on The Swing. She preaches from The Dresser Draw Bible (there’s no failure to communicate here) before they break out The Great Balls of Fire and watch Johnny B. Goode.  Tonight everybody’s got Rockabilly Fever and Miss Lee and The Hotrod Hounds mark their turf leaving us Breathless.

For those who’ve seen his face and lived to tell about it there’s an old legend that goes somethin’ like this. October 30th Richard Hammer and his trio, going to the biggest gig on their careers ran into some bad weather and somehow ended up at the bottom of the Green River. Now many many years later, freshly scooped out of their graves and ready to resurrect music from the evil clutches of the mainstream, Dead Dick Hammer and The TBA Band have returned to wreak havoc and bloodshed. But Richie wasn’t always a Dick, back in the day he was an honor student, big brother, on the glee team and captain of the football team. Later he relocated to Memphis and was a studio musician for some of the biggest names of the time, but due to copyright can’t be mentioned, (I would’ve asked but he flashed his rotting teeth smile at me stinking of fresh meat and I took the hint).  After his awakening his devoured his squeaky clean image turning into the dark, psychopathic, perverted, heartless but surprisingly well behaved Dead Dick we saw in front of us. At least while the crowd outnumbered his band anyway.

Dead Dick Hammer

Dead Dick’s biggest fan, a young lady of grave cadaverous beauty Miss Doreen Laveau tragically took her own life after the accident near the location of The Trio’s final resting place at Wells Family Cemetery in Temple Hill Kentucky. Such fatal devotion didn’t go unnoticed when Dead Dick and drummer Dr. (Doc) Kong unearthed her and through unknown/nefarious means gave her, her step back. Some say she was taken to a castle and electrified on a dark stormy night, but that’s never been proven. Now she plays bass next to her hunky, honkytonk hereafter hero like a good little living dead girl should. Undead drummer, Dr. Kong from parts unknown, actually he hails from the deepest darkest parts of the Amazon, and yes, you should believe him. A licensed professional witchdoctor by trade and this is what he said to me, he said…. well not much really besides grunts and ting tang walla walla bing bang. He deviously smiled at me reaching into his overalls so I stuck a business card in his mouth and ran.

 

Skull 13 makers of cool shot glasses, kreepy key chains, magnets from hell and other just plain weird stuff proudly presents straight from the cemetery gates of Plot 13 (gotta love irony) and the dirty dead six feet under south comes the rotting psychobilly creatures of undead dread Dead Dick Hammer & The TBA Band aka The Embalmers, for the Dayton show. He lets the crowd pick a new band name every show, lets them think they have some power over him. Leaving a dirt trail behind them with every step they played a set of high energy, nasty rock n roll hits and near victim misses. He thanked everyone for not shooting him in the head, yet. Performing with the slick swagger of his passed on pal The King, electric gypsy teeth playing of the wizard (he doesn’t eat nonliving things) and the classic duck walk of ole Mr. Maybelline. He also played guitar with a bike wheel. From what was left of his throat and vocal chords after a career’s worth of Jim Bean compounded by rot came the voices of a few famous rock n roll misfits including Glenn Danzig, the King of Graceland, and a little bit of Randy Travis. One look at Dead Dick and we have the unwanted answer of what Mr. Travis will look like, ten years after his demise. They brought along hell’s version of the good old time gospel hour. Dead Dick Hammer could very well be the darker more animated version of Hank Hill.  He promised everyone that came up and participated wouldn’t be followed home and stared at through the window.

The whole gang at Daddy Katz

They played a death defying set of daisy raising originals like My Baby She Like It Rough (a TMI tune of his personal life). Then came the Res-Erection the hard rock thumpin’ CD opener, the You-Tube friendly Last Call and another TMI tune from the black lagoon. They play an ode to poor sweet Annabelle and another for Sweet Sweet Connie, Dick promises he won’t hit cha but he will do something else.

All in all it was a great night of country rock n roll, drinkin’ and well behaved (for the most part) zombies. Representatives from Truth & Triumph were stationed, guns ready to give Mr. Hammer some new ink or slow him down in case he decided to give chase.   Skull 13’s other worldly connections came through and Dead Dick Hammer came to Dayton.

Filed Under: Dayton Music Tagged With: Daddy Katz, Dayton Music, Miss Cherry Lee & The Hotrod Hounds, Skull 13, Truth & Triumph

Midwest Fashion Week Kicks Off Wednesday

October 16, 2012 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

According to a recent article from TIME Magazine Midwest Fashion Week is the innovator for Fashion in the Midwest.  Founded in 2006 by Haitian born designer Berny Martin of Catou Designs, Martin began designing clothes at the age of 8 and gone on to open several store front locations nationwide and has been showcased during BET’s RIP the Runway and New York Fashion Week.

Midwest Fashion Week kicks off on Wednesday October 17 in Indianapolis and according to Martin this will be one of the most diverse shows ever with designers coming in from Europe, Pakistan, India, South America, the Caribbean, and of course from all across the Midwest! “We are proud to present the designers; they come from various cultures, ethnic backgrounds, religions, economical status, and more” said Martin in a statement.

Martin and Midwest Fashion Week has done it all from community work, helping small businesses, discovering Supermodels, and creating a connection between fashion and sports designing custom suites for players on the Indianapolis Colts, and yes even lending a helping hand right here in Dayton during the city’s first Fashion Week in July.

Here’s a look at Midwest Fashion Week line up and for ticket info please visit http://www.midwestfashionweek.com there will be no tickets sold at the door.

When: Wednesday October 17, 2012 doors open at 6pm

Where:  The Arts Garden, Indianapolis, 110 West Washington St., Indianapolis, IN

Designers:  Ali Robbins & Josie Wharton, Catou by Berny Martin, Jhanelle Baker,Lanae Monique by Lanae Stovall, and Poppy Seeds by Danisha Brown & Krista Alter

 

When:  Thursday October 18, 2012 doors open at 6pm

Where:  The Arts Garden, Indianapolis, 110 West Washington St., Indianapolis, IN

Designers: Ana Lyn by Carole Anne Housman, Electric Image by Carole Toole, Derek Hill, Gorgeous Ways by Parul Aneja, and Madame Couture by Securittee Brown

 

When: Friday October 19, 2012 doors open at 7pm

Where:  The Arts Garden, Indianapolis, 110 West Washington St., Indianapolis, IN

Designers:  Pesévérer (PRSVR) by Brandon Williamson, Anton Alexander by Anton Babich Ayesha Ibrahim, Gidi by Taneasha Prunty, Zathan Marcs,Perfection by Francesca Alejo, and Replica by Sharon Evans

 

When: Saturday October 20, 2012

Where: The Blue Lounge, 240 South Meridian Street, Indianapolis, IN 46225

Event:  Fashion Industry VIP Reception

Filed Under: Dayton Fashion Week, Indianapolis Tagged With: Ana Lyn by Carole Anne Housman, Anton Alexander by Anton Babich Ayesha Ibrahim, Berny Martin, Catou, Catou by Berny Martin, Derek Hill, Electric Image by Carole Toole, Gidi by Taneasha Prunty, Gorgeous Ways by Parul Aneja, Indianapolis Colts, Jhanelle Baker, Lanae Monique by Lanae Stovall, Madame Couture by Securittee Brown, Midwest Fashion Week, Perfection by Francesca Alejo, Pesévérer (PRSVR) by Brandon Williamson, Poppy Seeds by Danisha Brown & Krista AlterAli Robbins & Josie Wharton, Reggie Wayne, Replica by Sharon Evans, TIME Magazine, Zathan Marcs

Story Of Levi Leipheimer + Frankenstein Double Feature + Rifftrax Live Birdemic + Poltergeist 30th Anniversary + Alex Cross + Paranormal Activity 4

October 16, 2012 By Dayton937 4 Comments

Hello Dayton! This week is jam packed with special events and new releases. It’s fall and Halloween is around the corner so Rave Dayton South is preparing by having some scary special events!

STORY OF LEVI LEIPHEIMER TUESDAY OCT 23RD @ 7:30PM

The first movie this week is not scary but inspiring. In the debut of his untold story, Levi Leipheimer, professional cyclist, will start with an introduction where he will set up the documentary. Immediately following the debut of this personal account, Levi will return with some of his friends for an in-depth panel discussion about the current state of professional cycling and what the future of the sport looks like. Panelists include actor Patrick Dempsey, filmmaker Frank Matson, and others. Professional cyclist Levi Leipheimer has been nearly silent in his efforts to impact the lives of those around him.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UvAnqH0J7eE’]

FRANKENSTEIN DOUBLE FEATURE WEDNESDAY OCT 24TH @ 7PM

Just in time for Halloween, NCM Fathom Events, Turner Classic Movies and Universal Pictures will present a Halloween Double Feature in movie theaters nationwide in celebration of Universal’s 100th Anniversary. Don’t miss seeing Boris Karloff on the big screen as the original “Frankenstein” (1931) followed by Karloff and Elsa Lanchester in “Bride of Frankenstein” (1935). Frankenstein, about an obsessed scientist who creates a living being composed of disentombed body parts, is a horror classic.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AWnfH9jcZNY’]

 POLTERGEIST 30TH ANNIVERSARY WEDNESDAY OCT 24TH @ 2PM & 7PM – only $5 dollars!

 Another spooky movie will be showing as part of our Rave Retro Series, which brings back the classics on the big screen again! Poltergiest, which originally came out in 1982, features a family whose home becomes taken over by ghosts. At first the ghosts seem to be friendly and the family doesn’t mind, but things quickly go downhill as the ghosts begin to torment the family.

DID WE MENTION BOTH SHOWINGS ARE ONLY $5 AND IT’S BEEN RE-MASTERED IN HIGH DEFINITION?

 [yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ytjaMfoF2M’]

 RIFFTRAX LIVE! BIRDEMIC THURSDAY OCT 25 @ 8PM

From the stars of Mystery Science Theater 3000, Birdemic is the story of Rod, a young software salesman on the brink of launching a solar panel business in Silicon Valley. Things really seem to be going Rod’s way, especially when he reconnects with beautiful high school classmate Nathalie. But their perfect world is shattered when murderous birds begin attacking the region, birds who mostly hover and shriek but can also explode like bombs. Rod and Nathalie find themselves on a terror-filled ride.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yTd8a_SmcQu’]

PARANORMAL ACTIVITY 4- SPECIAL SHOWING THURSDAY OCTOBER 18TH @ 9PM, 930pm, 10pm

The Paranormal Activity movies have thrilled and startled audiences for years, and again plans to terrify movie-goers in the newest installment of the movies. The fourth movie, which takes place five years after the original, takes place when strange and scary things begin happening to a family after a woman and a mysterious child move in close to them. The movie will have a full opening on Friday, October 19th with show times at  12:30, 3:00, 5:30, 8:00, and 10:35pm and a special preview on Thursday October 18th @ 9:00pm, 930pm and 10pm..

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g7Xn2JqH5ng’]

ALEX CROSS- SPECIAL SHOWING THURSDAY OCTOBER 18TH @ 9PM

For those people who aren’t looking to be scared, or for fans of James Patterson’s books, Alex Cross is the perfect movie. Based on a best-selling book series, Alex Cross is a detective who faces tragedy when he is told that one of his own family members has been murdered. Alex Cross then vows to get revenge on the killer. Featuring Tyler Perry and Matthew Fox, this mystery crime thriller takes audiences for a ride where they will discover things are not as they seem to be.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tV_et8mrADI’]

For showtime click here

ENTER TO WIN TWO MOVIE PASSES!

Fill out the form below and leave a FB comment telling us you want to WIN MOVIE PASSES from RAVE CINEMAS DAYTON SOUTH – we will randomly draw a winner and notify same. Contest closes 10/18/12. Passes awarded will be valid for 30 days from close date at Rave Cinemas Dayton South only and must be used by then or will be forfeited. Valid for any showing, except special events. Please bring ID to verify your name and just ask for a manager when attending informing them you won the Dayton Most Metro contest.

Congratulations to this week’s movie pass winner: Carla Johnson!

Filed Under: On Screen Dayton Tagged With: 30th anniversary, alex cross, bike, birdemic, Books, classic, cycling, Dayton South, Discount, early screening, films, Frankenstein, horror, Huber Heights, james Patterson, levi leipheimer, live, movie, movies, Mystery Science Theater 3000, On Screen Dayton, paranormal activity, poltergeist, Rave Cinemas, rifftrax, scared, show times, special event, spooky, The Greene, Theater, ticket

Get Informed – Updayton Election Forum

October 16, 2012 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

On Wednesday, October 24 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm updayton will host its fourth annual Election Forum. Attendees this year will hear both sides of State Issue 2 and will have the opportunity to question County Commission candidates on their plans for Montgomery County. The forum will take place at Dayton Liederkranz-Turner (1400 E. 5th St.) and will be moderated by the League of Women Voters of the Greater Dayton Region.

Updayton’s Election Forum is the exclusive pre-election event dedicated to accepting questions on behalf of local young talent and then connecting them with candidates and issues of importance to them. “Our annual election forum bridges the gap between our target audience and elected officials by bringing the season’s hottest races and issues straight to these young voters,” says Shanon Potts, the updayton Advocacy Chair.

All are welcome to attend, regardless of age or county residency. Questions and important issues may be submitted in advance for consideration online to [email protected], subject line, “updayton 4th Annual Election Forum.

Invited participants include:

  • Incumbent Debbie Lieberman and challenger Ashley Webb for Montgomery County Commission
  • Incumbent Judy Dodge and challengers Dave Vore and William Pace for Mont. County Commission
  • Speakers from both sides of Issues 2: Ohio Redistricting Amendment

 

How to attend:

Where: Dayton Liederkranz-Turner, 1400 E. 5th St., Dayton

When: Wednesday, October 24, 2012; 5:30 Registration/Networking, 6-8:00 pm Forum

How: Free to attend, but please RSVP to [email protected]

Updayton is dedicated to spurring economic growth within the region by attracting and retaining young talent. As part of its mission, updayton advocates to local, state and national leaders to make the Dayton area more appealing to young talent.

(submitted by Laura Estandia of Updayton)

Filed Under: Local Government/Politics

On Stage Dayton Review – “And Miss Reardon Drinks a Little” by Dayton Theatre Guild

October 16, 2012 By Russell Florence, Jr. Leave a Comment

The dysfunctional baggage plaguing the Reardon sisters of Paul Zindel’s 1971 dark comedy “And Miss Reardon Drinks a Little” is commendably explored at the Dayton Theatre Guild.

Crisply staged by Debra Kent and set inside an eye-catching apartment designed by Jeff Sams and dressed by Wendi Michael, “Reardon,” an engaging tale that would have been better served as a one-act, steadily examines the betrayal, hardship and heartbreak between three sisters. Damaged by the absence of their father and the bruised memories of their recently deceased mother, they share a common link as educators but are truly disconnected. Like so many families burdened by emotional scars, the Reardons are stymied by their shared pain, wallowing in animosity instead of recognizing the benefits of growing closer and refining their relationship.

Teresa Connair as the uptight Ceil, Cassandra Engber as the hopelessly unstable Anna and Cheryl Mellen as sardonic alcoholic Catherine are a sharp, well-matched trio. With commanding ease they supply fully realized, nuanced assessments of their combative, peculiar characters, especially the dynamic Engber who nails Anna’s compelling anguish and zany hysterics.

Jennie Hawley and Michael Taint provide firm support as humorously overbearing dinner guests Fleur and Bob Stein. Amy Diederich as Mrs. Pentrano and Leo Santucci as Delivery Boy are suitable in extraneous roles.

“And Miss Reardon Drinks a Little” continues through Oct. 21 at the Dayton Theatre Guild, 430 Wayne Ave., Dayton. Performances are Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 5 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m. Act One: 50 minutes; Act Two: 40 minutes. Tickets are $12-$19. Patrons are advised that the production contains live gunshot sounds and adult language. For tickets or more information, call (937) 278-5993 or visit www.daytontheatreguild.org.

Filed Under: On Stage Dayton Reviews Tagged With: Amy Diederich, And Miss Reardon Drinks a Little, Cassandra Engber, Cheryl Mellen, dayton theatre guild, Debra Kent, Jeff Sams, Jennie Hawley, Leo Santucci, Michael Taint, Teresa Connair, Wendi Michael

On Stage Dayton Review – “Dracula” by The Dayton Playhouse

October 16, 2012 By Russell Florence, Jr. 1 Comment

Alex Carmichal (l) and Jared Mola in Dracula (Contributed photo)

Chills, kills and thrills abound in the Dayton Playhouse’s impressively conceived production of “Dracula,” adapted by William McNulty and originally dramatized by John L. Balderston and Hamilton Deane from Bram Stoker’s classic novel.

Under the striking, cinematic direction of David Shough, “Dracula,” the classic psychological and physical battle between good and evil exposing intriguing aspects of lunacy, power, sexuality and religion, grips from the start and doesn’t let go. Vividly launched by Chris Newman’s stellar prologue illustrations, Shough’s breezily paced, eerily dark and delightfully amusing presentation– effectively heightened with flashy special effects and Puccini’s marvelously melodramatic “Turandot” as inspired underscore –uniformly attacks with purpose. This show could have imploded with actors wallowing in a spooky sea of overblown hysterics or cheesy horror shtick with the rudimentary goal to “be scary,” but Shough ensures his believably conflicted cast remains committed at every turn, giving McNulty’s fully fleshed adaptation, a clear, succinct and tight examination of Count Dracula’s sinister menace and uncontrollable influence pervading Victorian England, the thoroughly engrossing treatment it deserves.

As the titular vampire, the impeccably creepy Alex Carmichal, an actor with a history of villainous roles, delivers one of his best performances. Uniquely possessing a simultaneously charming and contemptible aura, Carmichal meticulously uncovers the multifaceted malevolence within Dracula’s quest for control. He’s certainly good for a laugh, as any Dracula must, but he can also be remarkably seductive, particularly in the terrifying Act 1 finale he shares opposite Sarah Parsons (solid as Lucy Westphal) in which a matter of life and death culminates in hauntingly alluring surrender.

[dropshadowbox align=”right” effect=”lifted-both” width=”250px” height=”” background_color=”#ffffff” border_width=”1″ border_color=”#dddddd” ]”Refreshingly raising the bar for community theater, ‘Dracula’ is a must-see”…[/dropshadowbox]Jared Mola, who delivered a breakthrough performance last season in the Dayton Theatre Guild’s production of “Wittenberg,” is similarly outstanding as delusional inmate Robert Renfield, who relishes his intermediary contributions as the good-natured duo of Thomas Seward (Matthew Lindsay, appropriately conservative) and Abram Van Helsing (Saul Caplan, very authoritative) seek his help in their quest to destroy Dracula, whose allegiance Renfield maintains. Mola’s comedic timing and lively physicality, executed while signaling warnings of impending doom, is a constant joy.

Additionally, Heather Martin wonderfully taps into her inner Carrie White as Margaret Sullivan, Seward’s assistant possessed by Dracula, and her tender bond with David Hallowren (highly enjoyable as the tough yet amiable inmate attendant Norbert Briggs) is palpable. Matthew Glenn as Jonathan Harker, Carolyn Hoogsteden (what a screamer!) as Mina Grant, Margaret Foley, Cari Meixner and Debra Strauss as Dracula’s sadistic brides, David Stephen Thomas as a Monster and Addison Page Wheeler as the Girl completes the cast, attractively costumed by Barbara Pontecorvo. Shough spearheads the production’s terrific atmospherics as set designer, co-lighting designer (with Anita Bachman) and co-sound designer (with Bob Kovach).

Refreshingly raising the bar for community theater, “Dracula” is a must-see.

“Dracula” continues through Oct. 21 at the Dayton Playhouse, 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave., Dayton. Performances are Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Act One: 75 minutes; Act Two: 50 minutes. Tickets are $15-$17. For tickets or more information, call (937) 424-8477 or visit www.daytonplayhouse.org

Filed Under: On Stage Dayton Reviews Tagged With: Addison Page Wheeler, Alex Carmichal, Anita Bachman, Barbara Pontecorvo, Bob Kovach, Cari Meixner, Carolyn Hoogsteden, Chris Newman, David Hallowren, David Shough, David Stephen Thomas, Dayton Playhouse, Dracula, Heather Martin, Jared Mola, Matthew Glenn, Matthew Lindsay, Mina Grant, Saul Caplan

Cake Hope & Love- baking a difference in our community!

October 16, 2012 By Lisa Grigsby Leave a Comment

There’s a Beavercreek bakery that believes they can help change the world, one cupcake at a time.  For the last year and a half, owners Shannon Teague and Connie McFarren have been serving up sweets with a commitment to also serve the community.  Cake, Hope & Love’s name  is straight from  The Bible-  Corinthians 13:13: “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” Each month the shop picks a different charity to partner with and donates 20% of their profits to a community partner. Some of their past recipients include American Red Cross, Hospice of Dayton, Hope Foundation of Greater Dayton, Dominion Academy of Dayton, AFP and A Special Wish.

For the month of October they’ve chosen the AIDS Resource Center Ohio.  For each Red Velvet

Cupcake purchased this month Cake Hope & Love will donate to help fund the education and prevention efforts of ARC Ohio. “Connie and I both made the decision when we signed papers (for the new shop) back in January that we wanted to make sure that we were giving back as much as we got,” Teague said. “Changing the world one cupcake at a time,” Teague said. “That really seems to sum up what we do, just trying to change the world with what we have.”

You can stop by the bakery located at 490 N. Fairfield Road, Suite B in Beavercreek Tues- Thurs 10am – 6pm and Fri and Sat 10am -9pm.  The upscale bakery specializes in over the top cakes, gourmet cupcakes, novelty cake items, and gorgeous fondant work. They even offer free wi-fi, so you can take your lap top and work your way through their menu of flavors, which change daily.

 

 

Filed Under: Dayton Dining Tagged With: ARC Ohio, Cake Hope & Love

October – Domestic Violence Awareness Month

October 15, 2012 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Domestic Violence is a difficult issue to understand. This year, with the help of local elected officials, October has been declared Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Unless you’re educated on the topic, you may not understand why women stay or how serious the issue is. Why would you stay with someone hurting you? Domestic Violence is a cycle that is hard to break.  A victim cannot safely leave the situation without outside support, resources, and the confidence that she can make it on her own. Many don’t know that the period of time after a woman leaves is the most lethal and dangerous time as the batterer is more enraged than ever. I’d like you to meet Annie* who called the 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline several months ago. She is 35 years old, with four children, living in a local suburb with her husband of 11 years. Her husband, who had always been controlling,  had recently become physically violent.  Now their oldest child was beginning to act out. Annie heard that Artemis offered therapy for children exposed to domestic violence. She wanted help for her son, but wasn’t sure she could afford it. Her husband controlled all the finances in the household, so paying for therapy was not an option. Annie’s Artemis advocate assured her that we never charge clients for our services. She invited Annie to come in to the Artemis office and meet with an advocate face-to-face.

It was several weeks before Annie found a safe opportunity to visit us. After talking with an advocate and learning about her options, she decided she was not in a position to leave her abuser: often a woman is in the greatest danger when she leaves her abuser. With the help of Artemis staff, Annie made a safety plan for herself and her children. Today, Annie is using skills she learned at Artemis to stay safe. She is making plans to leave the relationship safely when the time is right.

This is where you come in. It is through the community involvement, education, donors, and volunteers that Artemis is able to support its mission of leading the community in its commitment to end Domestic Violence. For over 27 years, Artemis has been serving the community and local victims of Domestic Violence. Over 6,000 victims receive services annually from Artemis as 1 in 4 women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime. “Most people underestimate the frequency and severity of domestic violence in our community. Imagine living with someone, sleeping beside someone, who has threatened your life! Victims have strength and resilience, and information can use those skills to live a life free of violence” stated Artemis Executive Director Patti Schwartztrauber.  Artemis services are based on the following beliefs:

  • Victim safety is our first priority
  • No one deserves to be abused
  • Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) is a social justice issue
  • IPV in its predominant form is violence against women
  • IPV is rooted in male entitlement and a historical devaluation of women
  • When women and men are not afforded equal rights, intimate partner violence is perpetuated
  • Battering is a learned behavior
  • Battering is a choice
  • Men are part of the solution
  • Batterers exert power and control over their partners and feel entitled to do so
  • Situational violence is a different phenomenon from intimate partner violence
  • Services for victims should be empowerment based
  • All victims are entitled to services
  • There is a high correlation between Intimate Partner Violence and child abuse/neglect
  • Abusing a child’s mother negatively impacts the child
  • Providing therapy to children who witness Intimate Partner Violence and its effects helps break the cycle of abuse and can promote healing
  • Domestic violence will continue until the community insists that it ends

Artemis provides many services, including a 24-hour hotline, utilized by Annie* in our client story above. This hotline is available for victims to speak to an advocate, create a safety plan, and receive general support from a trained advocate. Victims are also offered court accompaniment, support group opportunities, assistance with general needs, and multiple other services. Also, because Domestic Violence affects everyone in the home, child therapy is offered to those children suffering behavioral and emotional issues after witnessing DV.

How you can give back: As we enter this holiday season many children of Artemis’ clients are in need of gifts. We want every child to have happy holiday memories by supplying them with 2 items they need (clothing) and 2 items they want (toys).  However, we do like to empower the mothers by allowing them to purchase the gifts for their children through donated gift cards. If you are interested in donating gift cards or sponsoring an individual family you may contact Sarah at 937.531.5709 or [email protected]

*Annie’s name has been changed for safety reasons.

(submitted by Artemis Center)

Filed Under: Getting Involved

Sing & Celebrate with The Bach Society of Dayton

October 15, 2012 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

The Bach Society of Dayton, under the direction of John Neely, will open its 10th anniversary season with a concert of audience favorites on Sunday, October 21, at 4:00 p.m.  The Bach Society chorus will be joined by the Oakwood Brass in a concert that spans works from the 16th century phenomenon Giovanni Gabrieli to 21st century choral “rock star” Eric Whitacre. R. Alan Kimbrough is accompanist and organist. The concert will be held at Kettering Adventist Church, 3939 Stonebridge Road, Kettering, Ohio, which offers free parking and is handicap accessible.

“Choral music composers through the centuries have always innovated to appeal to the audiences of the day. What we consider to be classical music today was once contemporary. So our first concert of the 10th anniversary season is a celebration of both old and new choral works that our audience members and singers have recommended as their all-time favorites,” said John Neely, music director, Bach Society of Dayton. The concert program includes: Plaudite, In Ecclesiis, and music for brass by Giovanni Gabrieli Sicut Cervus by Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina Lift Thine Eyes and He Watching Over Israel from Elijah by Felix Mendelssohn The Seal Lullaby and selections from Animal Crackers by Eric Whitacre A Psalm of David by Norman Dello Joio Imperial March for brass and organ by Edward Elgar, arranged by Steven Winteregg for the Bach Society.

[dropshadowbox align=”right” effect=”lifted-both” width=”200px” height=”” background_color=”#ffffff” border_width=”1″ border_color=”#dddddd” ]The Bach Society of Dayton
Sing and Celebrate
Sunday Oct. 21st at 4:00pm
$18 for adults; $10 for students
Purchase Tickets[/dropshadowbox]The concert preview at 3:00 p.m. features Dr. Richard Chenoweth, Professor of Horn and Graul Chair in the Arts and Languages at the University of Dayton and former Principal Horn of the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra.  Tickets are $18.00 for adults and $10.00 for students. Children 12 and under are admitted free of charge. Season tickets for all four concerts are available for $60 for adults. Individual and season tickets may be purchased at the door on the day of the concert or in advance by visiting www.bachsocietyofdayton.org or by calling 937-294-2224. The Bach Society honors the Culture Works passport for two-for-one tickets to any single concert.

The 2012-13 season also includes:

  • Sweet Sounds of the Holidays – Sunday, December 2, 2012, at 7:30 p.m.
  • St. Matthew Passion by J.S. Bach- Sunday, March 10, 2013, at 4:00 p.m.
  • Bach to the Future – Sunday, May 5, 2013, at 3:00 p.m.

Dayton Most Metro Ticket Contest

We’re giving away tickets to The Bach Society of Dayton’s concert “Sing and Celebrate” – just fill out the form below and leave a comment telling us that YOU want to win.  We’ll announce winners Tuesday 10/16 after 3pm – GOOD LUCK!

CONTEST CLOSED

Congratulations to Steve Seboldt!

Filed Under: Arts & Entertainment, The Featured Articles

Grab Your Mask for Dayton’s Party of Parties “MASQUERAGE”

October 15, 2012 By Lisa Grigsby 11 Comments

As charity fund-raisers go, the AIDS Resource Center Ohio’s Masquerage has earned a reputation as being an over the top, all out bash.  The masked ball was dubbed  Dayton’s Party of Parties by  Ron Rollins of the Dayton Dayton Daily News several years ago and  this themed event has continued to grow.  Started in 2002 by Square One Salon owners Brent Johnson, Doug Henderson and Josh Stucky at Therapy Cafe, the party has grown and moved across town, to such unusual venues like The Merc, The Foundry and it’s latest home- the Roundhouse at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds.

Designer Chris Newman

Hundreds of volunteers will spend the week transforming the two story white barn into a fantasy set, under the direction of designer Chris Newman, owner of Cheeky Monkey, an interior design and faux painting company.  Newman volunteered in 2009 to help with one room at the Circus themed event that year, as then stepped up the next year as the creative visionary behind the Heavenly Pleasures and Sinful Delights 2010 Masquerage.   In 2011 the ARC Ohio party celebrated a Decade of Decadence, bringing back some of  the scenery and entertainment of the past 10 years.

Masquerage 2012…Where Evil Can Be Tempting will pay homage to Vixens and Villains.  This theme was chosen to encompass a wide range of costume possibilities- from Gangsters and Molls of the 2o’s and 30’s, to B Movie Vixens, and without a doubt there will be some Disney villains like Cruella De Vil, Ursulas and  Maleficent.  While costumes aren’t required, over the years more and more of the crowd has gotten into the spirit, and  last year about 70% of the crowd were decked out. But the one thing that is required of all party guests is a mask, and whether you choose an elaborate professionally created head, a mardi gras mask or have one painted on, your options are endless.  Make up Artist Kelly Heuss explains “the painted on masks are the most comfortable, as often the plastic ones get pretty hot and sweaty when you’re dancing the night away. ”  You can make an appointment with Kelly  of www.airodynamic.net to get a mask painted on at Square One Salon, the Beauty Box and Mac cosmetics counters are also offering the service.

Cake Hope & Love’s Red Velvet Cupcakes will help raise $ for Masquerage.

What makes Masquerage more than just a dance party is the entertainment.  Over the years there have been Aerialists dangling from silk ropes, escape artists, contortionists, dance crews, fire dancers, knife throwers, and more. While ARC Ohio won’t reveal the line up for this year, they promise to continue the tradition of sexy, sultry and super eye catching performers.

And what’s a party without great food.  Chef Matt Hayden of Scratch Catering has created amazing munchies over the years and always has something tasty planned.  Cake Hope & Love will be featuring some sweet treats this year and has even gone a step further by offering to donate a a portion of all proceeds from the sale of their red velvet cupcakes from their Beavercreek store to ARC Ohio.

All  guests will be welcomed with a Jaegermesiter cocktail and Yeungling Beers and Buckeye Vodka are the barsponsors this year.  General admission tickets are $50, which is exactly what it costs ARC Ohio to administer one HIV test.  Testing is provided free to anyone who asks, and the test is a swab of the cheek with results in just 20 minutes.

If you prefer to attend Masquerage as a VIP, splurge for the Red Ribbon Lounge tickets, which include valet parking by Lexus of Dayton, face painting, all of your drinks, appetizers, entry into the 2nd floor lounge and the always coveted Swag Bag for $150.   Tickets can be purchased online  or at Square One Salons, Lexus of Dayton or Ghostlight Coffee. Tickets will be available at the event, but will cost $10 more there. The party starts at 8pm and runs til 1am, but the fun won’t end then, the official Masquerage After Party is hosted by MJ’s Cafe at 119 W. Third Street.

[flagallery gid=6 name=Gallery]

Dayton Most Metro Ticket Contest

Dayton Most Metro is a proud sponsor of Masquerage and we’ve got a ticket hook up for three of our loyal readers!  Just fill out the form below, and then leave a comment telling us that YOU want tickets to go to Masquerage from Dayton Most Metro (and what VILLAIN or VIXEN you might go as)  – we’ll announce winners on Wednesday October 17th after 3pm – GOOD LUCK!

CONTEST CLOSED

Congratulations to our winners:

Carol Narigon

Jamie McQuinn

Annette Looper

Filed Under: Arts & Entertainment, Getting Involved, The Featured Articles Tagged With: AIDS Resource Center Ohio, ARC Ohio, Buckeye Vodka, Dayton's Party of Parties, ghostlight coffee, Jaegermeister, Lexus of Dayton, Masquerage, Square One

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