Archives for July 2014

Yo, Adrian! We Bit It !!

July 19, 2014 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

The EB Pizza (Everything but Anchovies) – Click to Enlarge

Can you smell, what the Rocky’s is cooking?

That delicious aroma is coming from Rocky’s Pizza Ring, at 3273 Seajay Rd. in Beavercreek. Known to Beavercreek foodies for years, this Gem City original is nestled into the Beaver Valley Shopping Center, is behind Lofino’s Grocery. It is a little tough to find, but once you know about this little known secret, you will be back for more. In fact on their menu, the motto is “Once Found, Never Forgotten.”

Mama said knock you out with the scoop on Rocky’s Pizza Ring, so we’re gonna knock you out….
In this corner, we have The Big Ragu, the undisputed, undefeated Dayton Foodies in his Forties. It’s time for a Food Adventure, so ring the bell, and let’s get it on.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Fun atmosphere, where the dining tables are inside a boxing ring. There are also old articles on the wall about various fighters from the 1940’s-1970’s

— Owner/Manager Amy, comes in at 6am each day and makes all of the dough, fresh from scratch. It makes a big difference, you will see, in the taste.

Calzone with Pepperoni, Mushrooms and Green Peppers

— Amy also makes her own sausage & meatballs. She even makes her bread from scratch for Rocky’s menu selection of East Coast Style Subs.

— Family owned and operated since 1975, current ownership is 2nd generation. They still use the original pizza ovens for that great flavor!

— The hours are a bit tricky: Monday through Thursday, they are open 11am-2pm, then they close and reopen 5-10pm. Friday they stay open til 11pm, while Saturdays and Sundays hours are 11am-11pm, and 11am-10pm respectively.

Now lace up your gloves, you are about to go toe to toe with Rocky’s “Must Eats !” Wait, unlace the gloves, it makes it easier to eat…..

MUST EATS:

— THE EB PIZZA (Everything but anchovies): Want “deluxe” toppings? Then you want the EB PIZZA . Yo Mick, the main event is their pizza. Rocky’s pies are a thinner crust and cut into small squares. As we said, the fresh dough is key here. **TIP: Some of you who like a crispier crust may request them to cook it “well done.”

— THE PEPPERONI PIZZA: A good, ol’ classic. With Rocky’s dough, cheese and sauce combination, you cant go wrong. Take your mouthpiece out before eating.

Entering the ring, from Dayton, Ohio …..

— EAST COAST ITALIAN SUB: Their most popular sub, served with onions and Italian oil, provolone, with an option for lettuce and tomato too !

— THREE INGREDIENT CALZONE: Pick your own 3 fillings, and enjoy the fresh dough that holds it all together. This calzone is definitely fork and knife worthy.

— EAST COAST TURKEY SUB: Nothing fancy, just one of the best quick turkey sandwiches out there. The fresh bread makes you wanna hold the sandwich like a teddy bear.

— TACO PIZZA: Grilled hamburger meat, crumbled, mixed with Mexican spices, and topped with 2 kinds of cheese. It is then baked and finished with a topping of lettuce and tomatoes. Spicy, tasty and filling. This is a unique tasting pie, and one of the top taco pizzas we have encountered. A Food Adventure favorite.

The menu also includes spaghetti dinners, burgers, salads and hoagies. Rocky’s Pizza Ring is the place to go, to put your taste buds in training.

Taco Pizza at Rocky’s Pizza Ring

Here is also something that you need to know. Rocky’s has a FREE Stand up Comedy Night on the second MONDAY of each month. Also every Monday is 1/2 price beer pitchers.

What are the future plans for Rocky’s? They are looking to get craft beer on tap, and partner with brushes and barstools for future events.

We have known about this place since the days of bellbottoms, and continue to get our fix every few weeks. It astounds us that so many people are still not aware this place exists. Don’t be one of the those people!

Whether you are sitting in the dining room ring, or grabbing some pizza to go, we hope you try this champ a try. The ownership works heard to deliver freshness every day. Rocky’s Pizza Ring in Beavercreek, will put your hunger down for the count!

Check out our KNOCKOUT photo gallery below, from our numerous visits to Rocky’s Pizza Ring !

Want to catch all of the jabs and uppercuts in the Dayton Food Arena? Then jump on Facebook and “like” Food Adventures, by clicking HERE.

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Dayton Most Metro Celebrates Glass

July 18, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro

Sunflower 4, 2012
Christopher Ries

Jennifer Osterday – It’s easy to become numb to all the exhibits that come through the Dayton Art Institute. Even I have walked through and thought, “OK, cool art. Now let’s get to Leo’s Bistro and eat.” But something about Dayton Celebrates Glass immediately caught my eye.

Maybe it’s because I saw the Chihuly exhibit more than ten years ago at DAI and fell in love with the beauty of glass. Maybe it’s because when you hear a piece of art in the exhibit weighs more than 1,100 pounds you get a little intrigued. Or maybe it’s the fact that artist Stephen Powell will personally drive his glass work from KY to Dayton in the backseat of his car to ensure it’s set up just right with lighting. I’m gonna say it’s all of the above that has me saying you NEED to check out “Dayton Celebrates Glass.”

Nicole Nett – I agree completely- I think for many people in the area, that particular Chihuly exhibit was a perfect and dramatic introduction to studio glass. Fans of that exhibit will be pleasantly surprised to see several of his pieces in this one. What I particularly enjoyed was the way that the pieces were grouped. There were definite differences in the areas, but they all flowed seamlessly through the various artists and time periods.

Sunflower 4, 2012
Christopher Ries

JO – When I went to a preview of the exhibit, Christopher Ries, one of more than 12 artists that is featured in the exhibit, spoke. Ries immediately won bonus points when he started his presentation by sharing his love of the city of Dayton and calling the DAI a “special jewel.” Well, Dayton is the gem city after all.

Between cameras, mirrors, telescopes and that iPhone in your hand all the time, glass is just about everywhere. Ries just has a way of looking at it differently than the rest of us. He’s known as a classical reductive sculptor, dealing with large blocks of glass that can be up to 4,000 pounds and spending more than a year sculpting it down just right. His Sunflower IV piece that has gotten a large amount of attention is one of his pieces at the exhibit.

NN – What makes his type of glass art different is that it is reductive. Which means, he’s taking away glass, much like a sculptor would take away bits of marble or clay. Much of the glass we see in exhibits such as this are blown glass. The shapes take form by adding material, or growing from a starting point. When listening to him speak about the process, it was pretty interesting, however, it is difficult to understand the true art of it until you see it in person. Sunflower IV is a piece that you can look at, and continue to look at, maybe even come back to it, seeing something new every time. You’ll first be impressed by the sheer size of it, then as you walk closer, you realize the clarity, depth and detail of this

Dinosaur, 2000
Lino Tagliapietra

Lurid Tickle Sniffer, 2007 Blown Glass Stephen Rolfe Powell

Lurid Tickle Sniffer, 2007
Stephen Rolfe Powell

Spring, 2005
Christopher Ries

Oxide Blue Basket Set with Flint Lip Wrap, 2000
Dale Chihuly

JO – When you look at any of the glass he sculpts, you’ll see how different it can look from various angles, “That’s the beauty of glass as I see it,” he said. I agree. It’s honestly one of the reasons I love art in general. All it takes is looking at something from a different angle for something to come alive. Glass does this in a very obvious way.

If you need a little boost to get you to the exhibit, Dayton Glass Day on Aug. 9 is the perfect solution. They’ll be having glass artwork made on the premises and you can even make your own glass mosaic magnet that will be showcased during Oktoberfest. It will be free to members and $15 for adults.

So as my friends said after we left the exhibit, “Stay glassy, Dayton.” We’re pretty proud to have this outstanding artwork in our city for a bit.

Juan’s Top 5 Hispanic Restaurants In The Dayton Region

July 18, 2014 By Guest Contributor

Friends of ours over at Lion + Panda had an intern that gave them a list of his favorite Hispanic food spots in Dayton. They sent it to us and we thought it was a pretty good list so we’re sharing it with you! Enjoy!

1. Arepas & Co. Colombian Comfort Food– This made it to the top of my list because it’s so much goodness for such a low price. It has is set up like a Chipotle point and serve assembly line and the variety of plate or arepas one can get leaves the palate craving for more. If you are not familiar with Colombian cuisine, it isn’t about hot pepper infused sauces like you would find in Mexican cuisine, it is more savory, a lot of corn, rice, beans and meat are used.

1122 E Dorothy Ln, Dayton, Ohio

2. Taqueria Mixteca– This place will forever hold my heart for the Chimichangas (say that 5 times fast). Who doesn’t want a meat stuffed burrito deepfried and dunked into freshly melted Mexican queso? Wash that down with some delicious horchata beverage and you have yourself a fine day.

1609 E. 3rd Street, Dayton, Ohio

3. Antojitos Criollos– I am Puerto Rican, and as such I give myself authority to tell you where all the authentic Puerto Rican locations are. This place is it. I eat the Mofongo here like I would back in my island. In case you don’t know, Mofongo is a delicious green plantain creation, twice fried, mashed with spices and bacon bits into its ultimate form, paired with your choice of properly cooked and seasoned meats. Need I say more?

3937 Linden Ave, Dayton, OH

4. Taqueria las Tapatias– Would you like to know what a soft taco is supposed to be like? Go eat their specialty tacos and get back to me.

5524 Airway Rd, Dayton, OH

5. La Colombiana– Would you like to eat a plate full of delight and regret all at once? I know I do, and often. If you are like me, feel free to order the Bandeja Paisa, which includes a hunk of meat, sausage, rice, beans, fried plantains of the sweet variety, an arepa, a hardy amount of avocado and what can only be described as bacon’s superior Colombian cousin.

2495 Commons Blvd, Beavercreek, OH

JuanManuel Muñoz Jimenez is a travel and food blogger based here in Dayton as well as an MBA marketing student at Wright State University. After completing his degree he plans on more extensive travel around the world and a career in digital marketing. If you wish to follow his antics regularly you can reach him on twitter @tainonomad or follow his blog tainonomad.com

‘Once On This Island’ Review – Epiphany Lutheran Church – Vibrant Storytellers

July 18, 2014 By Russell Florence, Jr.

(L to R) Back Row: Desmond Thomas, Kathy Meyer, Kandis Wean, Bryan Burckle. Front Row: Brianna Russ in Epiphany Lutheran Church’s production of “Once On This Island”
(Contributed photo by Charles Woodward)

The Epiphany Players Drama Ministry of Centerville’s Epiphany Lutheran Church delivers a wonderfully heartfelt, joyously sung production of the1990 Tony Award-nominated musical “Once On This Island.”
Composed by Tony winners Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty (“Ragtime”) and adapted from Rosa Guy’s 1985 novel “My Love, My Love,” this Caribbean-immersed show inherently appeals with its straightforward, touching emphasis on a young peasant girl’s coming-of-age. The effervescent yet strong-willed Ti Moune (sprightly portrayed by the winsome Brianna Russ) adores the wealthy Daniel (a charming, sensitive Timmy Seiler) but is tested by her gods to embark on a journey that will ultimately explore the depths of her love. In spite of prejudice and adversity, Ti Moune risks her life for Daniel, propelling engrossing themes of acceptance, sacrifice and hope to compelling degrees.
The musical’s delightful structure requires the action to come forth by way of multiple storytellers, which director/choreographer Megan Wean Sears handles with aplomb as her exuberant cast cheerfully pulls the audience into Ti Moune’s whimsical world. Anyone who saw Sears’ exemplary production of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” last summer at Epiphany knows how effortlessly she guides a large ensemble, and her 60-member cast of varying ages does not disappoint. The excitement, suspense and tenderness within the tale is not lost as the cast, maintaining credible dialect throughout, grounds the proceedings with an earthy vivacity bolstered by Ahrens and Flaherty’s terrific score marvelously bookended by the ensemble-driven “We Dance” and “Why We Tell the Story.” Sears also provides excellently fluid stagecraft for the bouncy “Some Say” and the dramatic, nearly show-stopping “Pray.”
In addition to the aforementioned Russ and Seiler, Sears’ strong principals are committed and engaging. As the four omnipresent gods, Kathy Meyer (Asaka, mother of the Earth), Desmond Thomas (Papa Ge, demon of death), Kandis Wean (Erzulie, goddess of love) and Bryan Burckle (Agwe, god of water) are a colorfully commanding quartet. The radiant Meyer particularly brings gospel-tinged vivaciousness to the toe-tapping Act 1 finale “Mama Will Provide.” The delectably evil Thomas displays dynamic intensity and powerful vocals. The expressive, graceful Wean is a compassionate presence supplying a beautiful rendition of “The Human Heart” filled with poignancy and soul. Burckle joins Thomas in conveying imposing authority and a fittingly intimidating aura. Elsewhere, the emotional Meghan Rupper (in a first-rate, breakthrough performance) and amiable Michael Shannon gently coalesce as Ti Moune’s devoted parents Mama Euralie and Tonton Julian. Allie Tura (Andrea), Eryn Barrett (Little Girl), Liza Russ (Little Ti Moune), David Egbert (Armand), Hilary Fenwick (Madame Armand), Larry Klueber (Daniel’s Father), Brian Hoff (Gatekeeper), Mia Bridgman (Peasant Girl) and Noah Brush (Daniel’s Son) are equally notable.
Also, D. Tristan Cupp’s exotic scenic design skillfully captures the essence of the French Antilles. Costumers Maria Klueber and Lori Watamaniuk utilize the island motif with personality, particularly the regal garments reserved for the gods. Bryan Miller’s expert lighting, Chris Pentecost’s sound design, and Adrienne Ausdenmoore and Jason Hamen’s efficient props are great assets. Musical director David Brush leads a fine six-piece orchestra adeptly handling the flavorful rhythms within the score.
If you’re looking for a theatrical getaway this weekend, make this “Island” your destination.

“Once On This Island” continues through July 20 at Epiphany Lutheran Church, 6430 Far Hills Ave., Centerville. Performances are Thursdays-Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2:30 p.m. Act One: 45 minutes; Act Two: 35 minutes. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for seniors (60 and over) and children (12 and under). Patrons are advised the show is double-cast. For tickets or more information, call (937) 433-1449 ext. 105or visit www.epiphanydayton.org

Get the Blues at the 29th Annual Dayton Blues Festival

July 17, 2014 By Juliet Fromholt

Free summer entertainment returns to downtown Dayton’s Dave Hall Plaza (Fourth and Jefferson Streets) on Sunday, July 20, as Recreation and Youth Services presents the 29th annual Dayton Blues Festival, with the finest in local and regional blues from 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.The line-up includes:

Joe & Jack Waters – Dayton
The Wright Brothers Band – Dayton
Back Talk Blues Band, featuring Gary ‘Guitar’ Williams – Dayton
The Mojo Kings – Columbus
Mark May Band, with the Soul Horns – Columbus
Cheryl Renee Project – Cincinnati
Joey Gilmore ‘The Blues Legend’ – Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
Emcee – Earl “South Side” Hayes

In addition to great blues, there will be food and merchandise vendors, and Heidelberg will offer premium beers. Concertgoers are welcome to bring lawn chairs or blankets. However, shade tents, coolers, pets, outside food and drinks are not permitted. The City of Dayton’s Take Back the Tap Trailer will offer free water (guests are encouraged to bring their own water cup or bottles).

The Dayton Blues Festival is the second of a three-festival Downtown Summer Music Series presented by the Dayton Department of Recreation and Youth Services, and is supported by Heidelberg Distributing, the Downtown Dayton Partnership, the Crowne Plaza Hotel, WROU Radio, and Martin Romie Talent. The Downtown Summer Music Series will continue with the Dayton Reggae Festival on August 31, also at Dave Hall Plaza and with free admission.

Boston Stoker Presents A Film About Coffee

July 17, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro

Pints And Pin Ups For Pits Car Show & Fundraiser

July 17, 2014 By Lisa Grigsby

Natalie Phillips is a lady with a big heart that’s full of passion for the underdog. Well in this case it’s more of a group of dogs – Bully Breeds: Bulldog Breeds, Pit Bull Breeds, Mastiff Breeds, and any mixes of the aforementioned. Natalie has spearheaded a benefit for Miami Valley Pit Crew (MVPC), a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that relies completely on donations. It’s a network of volunteer foster homes dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of abused, neglected, and misunderstood dogs and puppies. They educate owners and the public, on bully breeds and Breed Specific Legislation (BSL).

This Saturday, July 19th from 1pm – 10pm, Boston’s Bistro and Pub, located at 7500 N Main St, in Dayton, will host Pints and Pin-ups For Pits. Natalie describes this as “a huge event with 100% of proceeds going to MVPC. There will be a cruise in, live local music, pin ups, lots of raffles (including a Big Beers & Barley Wines basket), games, a kissing booth, vendors, food and to celebrate the end of Ohio Beer Week we will have all 17 taps with local/Ohio beer with a few special cask including Rhinegeist, who will be sending their first cask ever to this event.”

Talia Nicole

The Luscious Ladies are a Pin Up group, with chapters all over the United States. Models who specialize in everything vintage with a touch of class and sexiness. These lovely ladies will be volunteering on Saturday serving drinks, taking photos and making the place beautiful!

Steffen Evan Baldwin of Animal Cruelty Task-force of Ohio (ACT) will be doing a dog safety demo for kids at 3pm. Even if you don’t have your child with you, there will be a lot of information you can take home. ACT Ohio travels around the State educating children in an interactive way on dog safety, particularly around stray dogs, as well as helping them to understand in a child friendly way how dogs think and why they do what they do. In addition, your children will learn what the law requires companion animals to have every day (food, water, shelter), and why it’s so important for dogs. Children aged 4-7 are statistically most likely to be bitten by a dog and most bites are at home, and are preventable with a little bit of education! Former MVP Chesty Puller will be the demo dog!

We asked Natalie about how she got involved with Pit Rescue?

NP: My friend was driving behind a car on Stewart St, when all of a sudden the door opens (while driving) and they threw a dog out of the moving vehicle. The dog was a Mastiff breed and got pretty messed up. He called around and no one would help him help the dog… until he stumbled upon Miami Valley Pit Crew (MVPC). They not only took her in, they vetted her and fostered her until she found her forever home. That left a big impact on me. I have always been an advocate for the bully breed. But, I’m not making a difference if I’m yelling at a wall or ranting on Facebook. So, I wanted to get involved. I contacted MVPC had my home visit and became a foster, and always will be…

Wyatt

Can you tell us about fostering these dogs?

NP: My 4th foster, Wyatt came to me at 9 weeks old with ringworm on his tail.. Because of the fungus he was on the “to be destroyed” list. I took him in, kept him separated and sprayed an anti-fungal medicine on his tail and in a week he was just fine! Wyatt is now almost a year old and he was a foster failure.. We connected and I knew that he was already home. I know I can’t fall in love with every dog that comes through, but Wyatt was different.

What I respect the most from MVPC is that there is a strict process that every potential adopter has to go through to ensure the dog will have a great life. This makes it easier for me to love and let go when fosters come through my house. I have no doubt they are going to a fantastic home. Every dog adopted from MVPC is spay/neutered, micro chipped, completely vetted (all vaccines) and heartworm tested.

The MVPC evaluates each rescue request to determine the dogs re-homing probability. We want to ensure each dog we take in can be rehabilitated into a family member. We work hard locally to educate bully breed owners and speak out against Breed Specific Legislation.

How big is the need for Pit Rescue in Dayton?

NP: Bully breeds, the American Pit Bull Terrier, the American Staffordshire Terrier, and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, are the most misunderstood, abused and euthanized dogs across the nation. They battle discrimination on a daily basis whether it is misinformed minds of society to breed specific legislation. High Kill shelters only allow only a certain number of bully breeds on the adoption floor… all others are killed. Pit Bulls and Pit Bull mixes average about 33% of shelter intakes nationally, but in large cities the numbers are as high as 40%-65%. About 75% of shelters euthanize Pit Bulls immediately upon intake.(stats thanks to Examiner.com) Even if they do make it to the adoption floor, they are the first to be euthanized when they get overcrowded. It’s sad that this stigma plagues the breed because they are loving, loyal, fun, very smart and want to learn. Education and responsibility is important with any breed of dog. Blame needs to start being put at the other end of the leash.

If you can’t attend Saturday’s event you can still make a difference. You can make donations, share photo’s of adoptables on social media or foster! Check out the adoptables:www.mvpc.petfinder.com. MVPC always need more fosters. You can find foster/adoption applications, or make a donation at www.miamivalleypitcrew.com

Summer Menu Blooms at Lily’s Bistro

July 16, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro

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Here’s the tuna steak grilled rare over local vegetable ratatouille with crisp green beans and tapenade aioli.

Summer is in full swing in Dayton and at Lily’s Bistro, located at 329 E. Fifth Street in Dayton’s Oregon District. Lunch, brunch, dinner, wine, beer, and cocktail offerings have all changed to embrace summertime fare and the drinks that pair best with it.

Executive Chef Mariah Gahagan says “Summer might be my favorite season. My approach to food is that when the ingredients are at their prime, you don’t really have to do that much to them. We’ve done an unconventional approach to surf n’ turf on every menu since we opened in 2013. I love this season’s version of seared scallops with bacon and a summer succotash of sweet corn, locally grown tomatoes, and green beans.”

General Manager Emily Mendenhall says, “The whole idea of Lily’s has always been to be a fresh, fun, and seasonal restaurant. This means that when we change menus to reflect what farmers are growing locally—conceptualized and prepared by our kitchen crew in a manner that suits the time of year—we also change our beer, wine, and cocktails. Everything on this menu tastes like summer in the Midwest.”

Owners Lisa and Bob Mendenhall, who also own Blind Bob’s bar with their son Nate, concur that, “this menu is the best yet. We feel like we say that every time, but that’s part of being a newer, seasonal restaurant.” Bob adds, “It takes time to work out the kinks…we’ve gotten through the first year and we’re getting the hang of things. We’re so grateful to the people who have supported us and allowed us to grow. We’re looking forward to the next year!”

Lily’s Bistro offers their seasonal lunch menu Tuesday-Saturday from 11am-3pm, and their full dinner menu Tuesday-Thursday from 5-10pm as well as Friday and Saturday from 5-11pm. On Friday and Saturday they also have a full bar until 1am. On Sundays, Lily’s serves their brunch menu from 11am-3pm, and has “Family Style Fried Chicken Dinner” from 5-9:30pm, a more casual dinner menu focusing on local, free-range fried chicken and assorted sides with a good deal of southern influence.

Dayton Library To Commission Original Local Art

July 16, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro

“ReImagining Works” consists of 17 projects for the new libraries; original, commissioned interior and exterior artwork will be sought periodically for the next three years. The first project is underway at the Electra C. Doren branch. The ReImagining Works initiative continues with three simultaneous Requests for Proposals (RFPs) for three separate buildings. These RFPs are for Main Library (downtown), as well as the Miami Township and Northwest branches. All commissioned pieces will be conceived in response to an artwork held in the permanent collection of The Dayton Art Institute. The commissioned work will be owned by the Dayton Metro Library.

The process begins with community members, and particularly patrons of the library, voting on their favorite DAI artworks. Voting will take place for each building, and then selected artworks will be included in each full Request for Proposals. Any aspect of the selected artwork can be utilized as source material for the submission. The RFP will also outline the art opportunity spaces for that building. Additionally, there is a theme or focus for each of the buildings, which will be outlined in the RFP.

The first step is to submit an “Intent to Apply.” If you plan to submit a proposal for any of the projects, we encourage you to fill out your Intent to Apply form now.

The deadline for Main, Miami Township and Northwest proposal submissions is Thursday, Aug. 7, 2014. After the Aug. 7 deadline, maquettes may be requested for 3-dimensional and suspended artworks, or for other complex proposals. If a maquette is requested, a stipend will be provided. An artist or the artist’s representative must be available to present to the committee on Friday, Sept. 5. Access the RFPs below:

Main Library RFP (PDF) Miami Township Library RFP (PDF) Northwest Library RFP (PDF)

RFP submissions will only be accepted electronically, as a single PDF of no more than 10MB. DAI and DML employees and their immediate families are not eligible to apply for commissions. Proposals must include the following:

A sketch and narrative explanation of the proposed artwork
Explanation of relationship between source material and proposed artwork
Detailed schedule of materials, including attachment to existing surface and lighting needs
Artist’s CV, biography and information about similar projects completed
Six to nine images of completed artwork of similar scale and material
A budget, showing that all artist’s or artists’ fees, materials, creation and installation costs will be covered by the requested amount.

Jane A. Black, Director of Engagement at The Dayton Art Institute. The Dayton Art Institute is the project manager for ReImagining Works. She will hold two informational meetings at DAI for artists: on Friday, July 18, 4-5:30 p.m. and Saturday, July 26, 2-3:30 p.m. Additionally, Ms. Black will schedule individual, 15-minute phone calls with artists on Monday, July 21, 1 to 3 p.m.; Monday, July 28, 10 a.m.-noon; and Wednesday, Aug. 6, 4:30-7:30 p.m. RSVP for the 7/11 or 7/26 meeting or schedule a time to discuss your proposal by emailing Jane Black.

Kettering Eatery Menu Tours The World This Summer

July 15, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro

Candace Rinke, Chef and owner of Kettering’s Hawthorn Grill, has decided to keep the dog days of summer from becoming too monotonous by taking a trip around the world! Each week she’ll explore a different country through the traditional foods of that locale! They’ve started in France this week and will finish in Germany for their traditional Oktoberfest for two weeks starting on September 22!

7/14-7/19 French Week Specials

Sole Meunière, Tartiflette, Arugula with Shallot Vinaigrette

(Sole with Brown Butter, Lemon and Parsley Potato Casserole with Reblochon Style Cheese)

Grilled Quail with Port, Figs and Bleu Cheese, Pommes Anna, Haricots Verts

Deconstructed Coq au Vin, Buttered Noodles with Parsley

(Pan Roasted Chicken Breast, Red Wine Sauce with Bacon, Pearl Onions and Mushrooms)

Chocolate Pots de Crème with Raspberry Mousse

Fresh Cherry Cloufoutis

7/21-7/26 Japanese

7/28-8/2 Latin America

8/4-8/9 Mediterranean

8/11-8/16 Polynesian

8/18-8/23 Polish

8/25-8/30 Thai

9/1-9/6 Italian

9/8-9/13 Korean

9/15-9/20 Cajun/Creole

9/22-10/4 Oktoberfest

10/20-10/25 Duck-a-Palooza

The Hawthorn Grill is located at 1222 East Stroop Road and we suggest calling ahead for reservations at 298-2222.

Your “Green” Habit Could Be Worth $100

July 15, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro

The Dayton Regional Green Initiative wants to know what Miami Valley residents do to help the environment—in your home, in your car, at the office or out and about! We want to see your pictures and videos of you doing what you do best:practicing sustainability!

If your idea is chosen as the winner, you’ll present it at the Dayton Regional Green Sustainability Luncheon on August 27 at the Crown Plaza. You’ll also get free lunch, $100and a DRG water tumbler!

Show DRG how you’re being green in your everyday life by submitting pictures and videos in one of the following ways:

Tweet your picture or video and tag it with #DaytonRegionalGreen. (Be sure to follow @DRG3Ohio while you’re at it!)
Post your picture or video on our Facebook page and tag it with #DaytonRegionalGreen.

Be sure to include a short description of your green practice that’s shown in the multimedia you submit. DRG staff and committee members will select a winner based on creativity, sustainability and practicality. Please submit your idea by August 13, 2014.

OFFICIAL RULES

All participants, by virtue of their entry, agree to be bound by the following terms and conditions.

Sponsors. This contest is brought to you by the Dayton Regional Green Initiative (“DRG”). Contest sponsor can be reached by mail at: Dayton Regional Green Initiative, Attn: DRG3, 451 W. Third Street, Dayton, Ohio 45422.

Eligible Participants. Participants must be a legal U.S. and Ohio resident to enter. Participants 18 years of age or older must have parental consent to participate.

How to Play. Participants will be entered into the sweepstakes when the submit content (either photos or video clips) via social media (Facebook or Twitter) using the hashtag #DaytonRegionalGreen. Participants will automatically be entered into the contest by 1) using the #DaytonRegionalGreen hashtag on Twitter or 2) posting content to the Dayton Regional Green Initiative’s Facebook timeline (http://facebook.com/DaytonRegionalGreen).

Contest begins on July 14, 2014, at 8:00 a.m. EST and ends on August 13, 2014, at 5:00 p.m. EST. All entries must be uploaded, posted or tagged by 5:00 p.m. EST on August 13, 2014 to be considered for the contest.

One prize per household. One winner will be selected from the entries based on a selection committee’s determination of creativity, sustainability and practicality. The selection committee will be composed of DRG employees and committee members. Winners will be notified within 24 hours of the prize drawing via the social medium used to submit the winning entry. DRG is not responsible for malfunctions or errors in submitting forms for entry.

Prizes. One winner will receive 1) an invitation to present their winning idea to the Dayton Regional Green Sustainability Luncheon on August 27, 2014 at Top of the Market in Dayton, 2) free lunch at the event provided by Top of the Market, 3) a $100 gift certificate, and 4) a DRG water tumbler. The winner can pick up his/her prize at the DRG luncheon event or by arranging for later prize pick-up by calling (937) 225-6423.

Revocation of prize. If a winner is not able to claim his or her prize within one week of notification, or if the winner fails to provide proper identification, or if an announced winner is determined to be an ineligible participant, then in any such case DRG shall declare the prize forfeited, and proceed to select a new winner from the remaining eligible entries.

Odds of Winning. One prize will be awarded. Each entrant’s odds of winning depend on the number of entries received as well as the displayed creativity, sustainability and practicality of each submission.

Privacy. DRG will not sell, trade or otherwise circulate information provided by participants to third parties. Information provided during entry will be kept solely for DRG’s record. DRG reserves the right to use any photos or videos submitted for this contest in future promotions or publications. By submitting a photo or video with the #DaytonRegionalGreen hashtag, participants allow DRG to use their content with proper attribution in future promotions.

Release of Liability. Entrants agree that DRG shall not be responsible or liable for any losses, damages or injuries of any kind resulting from participation in the contest or any contest-related activity, or from participants’ acceptance, receipt, possession and/or use or misuse of the prize(s), and have not made any warranty, representation or guarantee express or implied, in fact or in law, with respect to the prize(s), including, without limitation, to such prize’s quality or fitness for a particular purpose.

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Reservation of rights. DRG reserves the final judgment on all matters pertaining to this contest including the right to change or modify the rules or prizes, or to discontinue or extend the contest without prior notice. Should DRG become aware of any hacking, security breaches, or other misconduct, DRG reserves the right to discontinue the contest immediately. In the event DRG chooses to discontinue the contest, a winner may be determined from current eligible entries.

Obtaining Rules and List of Winners. These official rules for the #DaytonRegionalGreen Contest are available at facebook.com/DaytonRegionalGreen/notes. A copy of these official rules can also be obtained by writing DRG and enclosing a self-addressed stamped envelope to: Dayton Regional Green Initiative, Attn: Facilities Management, 451 W. Third Street, Dayton, Ohio 45422. A copy of a list of winners of the contest can be requested at the same address following the end of the contest. Requests received more than three months after the end of the contest will not be honored.

Responsibility for taxes and other costs associated with winning. The approximate retail value is XXX. Winners shall assume any and all responsibility as to federal, state, or local taxes due in connection with the prize. Winners will also assume any and all additional costs in connection with using prizes as awarded.

Applicable law. This contest and corresponding rules are governed by Ohio law, and any dispute or litigation arising from this sweepstakes must be brought in a court of competent jurisdiction in Montgomery County, Ohio. This contest is subject to all applicable federal, state, and local laws. Participants hold all responsibility to comply with any applicable federal, state or local laws in connection with their entry.

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Miscellaneous. Void where prohibited. No purchase or other valuable consideration necessary to enter or win.

9th Area Brewery to Debut Their Own Beer Wed

July 14, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro

Brewmaster Darren Link, of the Fifth Street Brewpub, has been working hard in the brewhouse in St. Anne’ Hill to bring freshly us brewed beer and finally on Wed, July 16th you’ll be able to sample the first of many beers to come from the 2500+ member owned co-op. On tap this week will be:

You’ll be able to sample a flight of 3 4oz pours for $6.

Management shares that growlers will not be offered right away, “but will be offered to member-owners and patrons in the next upcoming months as we expand production of our FSB craft beers.”

Doors normally open at 4pm during the week, but for this special event we’ll see you there at 3pm!

And don’t worry if you can’t make it Wed, MostMetro.com is currently working on adding Fifth Street Brewpub to our Brew Tours! And later this month the 10th area brewery should also be serving, as Dayton History’s Carillon Brewing Co. is scheduled to open in August.

Carillon Brewing Co.

New 5K Obstacle Event to Debut In Dayton

July 13, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro

Ohio’s newest adventure obstacle venue, located on the campus of Action Sports Center is The Gem City Gauntlet. Conveniently located off Route 4 near Interstate 75 and features 20 event stations along the 5K race path. The 60-acre sports complex boasts 8 fully-lit baseball fields and 20 acres of soccer fields, all of which will be incorporated into the Gauntlet.They’ve been planning the obstacle course design for over a year and have received valuable input from many competitors along the way.

The actual construction of the Gem City Gauntlet is well under way and will be ready to host the inaugural event on August 2, 2014. Transformation of the Action Sports campus can be already be seen from Route 4, as Gladiator Mountain rises from the ground. This will be a 30-foot tall, man-made mountain with another 30-foot tall series of phone poles and cargo netting. Once complete, Gladiator Mountain will contain an estimated 35,000 cubic feet of dirt. This makes it the largest man-made structure of its kind in the region as well as the tallest such obstacle structure. Excavation of the Barbarian Lagoon is also underway. The race course borders a 20-acre lake and a heavily-wooded forest that, in parts, will be incorporated into the race course design.

As challenging as the race will be, the post-party atmosphere is designed to amaze. A band will be playing, beer will be flowing, there will be roasting pigs and a fully staffed food court will awaiting all hungry and thirsty Gladiators after their competition.

Visit their website for more information or to sign up for the Gauntlet. The first sign up discount goes away July 14th.

The Gem Cit

National Becomes Local: Longhorn Steakhouse in Moraine

July 13, 2014 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Bob Medlin & Jordan Frank of Longhorn Steakhouse, volunteer time & resources to many Dayton charities

We just had to tell you. We just had to tell you about something happening in your community that you have no idea about.

As you know, 95% of our weekly Food Adventure articles feature local mom and pop establishments serving up great food.

But sometimes, there is a need to mention something that is going on at a Nationally owned restaurant. In this case, no one is more deserving than Bob Medlin, the manager of Longhorn Steakhouse in Moraine, located at 1921 West Dorothy Lane.

We know,we know…. ” the dreaded chain restaurant,” but there is one thing you local purists can’t ignore. It is the constant donation of resources and volunteering that Bob Medlin and his staff give to the Miami Valley. The Big Ragu and Crew volunteer at a lot of charity events, and we notice that Bob Medlin and Longhorn Steakhouse in Moraine are involved in almost every charity group that we support. The staff believes in not only serving quality affordable food, but they go an extra step in volunteering for many charitable organizations.

Food Adventures joined forces with Longhorn Steakhouse Moraine, to support the March of Dimes Walk for Babies. We ate at their pancake breakfasts that supported the Sandy Hook Elementary victims, and the Mobley Family who endured terrible losses in a local fire. The Big Ragu and Crew have also run into the Longhorn staff at the annual AMBUCS Chili cookoff, that benefits Dayton citizens with various disabilities, by providing them equipment to become more mobile.

After talking with the management and the staff, we realized, this was just the tip of the iceberg. Just some of the charities helped by Longhorn Steakhouse in Moraine, either directly or indirectly through volunteering staff, or donating resources, food or supplies, are the following organizations:

Food For Kids (Vandalia)

Dayton Hospice Walk

Snuggled Up Inc. – bedding for Dayton area kids

The Greater Dayton Apartment Association’s Rent Foundation – prevents homelessness in Dayton, by paying rent for families in crisis.

Shoes for the Shoeless and Brief Blessings – helping Dayton area children with basic needs such as shoes and underwear

Ronald McDonald House of Dayton – Staff volunteered to rake leaves, clean up yard

Dayton Circles – dedicated to ending poverty

Back2Back Ministries – Helping local orphans and abandoned children

Kiser Elementary– helping educate refugee children who have settled in Dayton.

Christ’s Church of Bellbrook’s – various charity programs

Relay for Life Charities from American Cancer Society– pancake breakfasts to raise money

Bob & the Longhorn Steakhouse Staff volunteering at the March of Dimes Walk for Babies, and giving out cake

Apex Church charity Rib Dinner to benefit Relay For Life Charities

Donated supplies for Apex Church missionary charity support of 6 Mexican orphans, and 1 orphangirl in India

Big Brothers Big Sisters program of the Greater Miami Valley – Helping Dayton children reach their potential

Dayton Life Enrichment Center – providing groceries and meals to needy families of Dayton

Target Dayton Ministries – serving meals to Dayton’s homeless and poor

Miami Valley Womens Center – helping new moms and dads with loss of an infant

Harvest House – helping rehabilitate females who have been abused, or dealing with depression

Victory Project – helping Dayton youth in the Juvenile system rebuild themselves and stay crime free

Miracle League of Dayton – providing special needs children a baseball field where they can play

These are just some charities off the top of the staff’s heads. The thing is, they don’t toot their own horn, they just help out the community in so many ways. And it is contagious. As we talked to the staff, we realize they all want to help and get involved, because they see how their company has affected lives for the positive.

And so many lives have been affected by the Longhorn Steakhouse staff. We have yet to mention donations to local elementary schools, or events for the Fairmont track football, basketball , and volleyball teams! They even had volunteers help cater a prom dinner.

Longhorn Steakhouse in Moraine, holds Pancake Breakfasts for various charities, here is one of our delicious plates that we devoured

Longhorn Steakhouse of Moraine events have benefited local pet adoption companies and local cancer survivors. There have been Dayton Demonz hockey team charity work, volunteer staff car washes for charities. Bob Medlin and his co-workers have helped donatefor benefits for cystic fibrosis and leukemia. They have helped local feeding centers, local food banks, and helped organize local clothing donations.

Although they have a full staff supporting and volunteering for many of these events, there are 3 managers at Longhorn who have instilled and lead this philanthropist philosophy with their employees. The first person we have already mentioned, is manager Bob Medlin. The other two, are managing partner Jordan Frank and Rita Hayworth, fundraising specialist. Together they provide a great, caring work atmosphere of giving back to the community.

So the next time you are in the mood for some steakhouse type food, you may want to mosey on over to the Longhorn Steakhouse in Moraine and keep paying it forward. You may even get to see Bob Medlin, and tell him thank you for their community support. Let him know you saw his charity work “shout out” on Food Adventures. Bob and his staff are very humble, and the staff never boasts about their charity work. They participate enthusiastically and take pride in helping various needs in the Dayton area. We are grateful for fellow citizens like this and want them to know, we greatly appreciate all you do. Thanks for making a local difference with a national company.

Please view our gallery below of photos inside Longhorn Steakhouse and the staff volunteering at various events.

Also, make sure you become a Food Adventure fan on Facebook, by CLICKING HERE TO “LIKE” US.

[flagallery gid=94]

Saluting Dayton’s 2013-14 Theater Season

July 13, 2014 By Russell Florence, Jr.

Looking back on Dayton’s commendable 2013-14 theater season, appealing stories reflecting cries of revolution, love and forgiveness, identity and family, and relationships beyond repair gave audiences thought-provoking, richly rewarding memories.
Wright State University certainly triumphed with an exceptional Les Misérables which catapulted its musical theater component to astonishing degrees from performance to design. The beautiful complexity of The Magic Fire, the wonderful earthiness of Oklahoma!, and the dynamic electricity within The Wild Party also gave the organization cause to celebrate. Collegiate stages elsewhere saw fine work at Sinclair Community College (fittingly bookended by the riotous Monty Python’s Spamalot and A Flea in Her Ear) and in the University of Dayton’s A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum featuring the final set design of scenic/lighting designer Darrell Anderson who retired after 40 years of service.
In addition, the Dayton Theatre Guild notably delivered a terrific, well-balanced season heightened by its outstanding, superbly designed local premiere of Time Stands Still, an engrossing drama about a New York couple at odds. The Guild also provided praiseworthy accounts of hypocrisy (An Inspector Calls) and desperation (The Dead Guy). The Dayton Playhouse built momentum last summer with an impressive, historic tie for top honors at FutureFest: A Position of Relative Importance and The King’s Face. Additional Playhouse highlights included The Whales of August (helmed by FutureFest co-founder John Riley), Working, and a very entertaining Hairspray. Brookville Community Theatre’s The Importance of Being Earnest and Lebanon Theatre Company’s Into the Woods flew under the radar but delighted all the same. Leading the pack of special theatrical events, Epiphany Lutheran Church offered an absolutely luminous, smile-inducing Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.
Professional companies reaped its share of successes as well. The Victoria Theatre Association’s Premier Health Broadway Series particularly supplied the wondrously inventive local premiere of the Tony Award-winning War Horse and a joyously heartfelt, smartly reconceived national tour of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. The Human Race Theatre Company brought a refreshingly intimate vision to Fiddler on the Roof and boldly resurrected Torch Song Trilogy with power and passion to enlighten a new generation. The emerging Dare to Defy Productions auspiciously joined the professional ranks with a very winning I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change. Zoot Theatre Company took an enjoyable leap into the musical theater realm with The Rocky Horror (Puppet) Show while showcasing its pedigree with an insightful, imaginative Animal Farm.
Assessing the 60 shows I saw this season, I congratulate the following winners (in bold) and nominees.
BEST PROFESSIONAL PRODUCTION OF A PLAY
Animal Farm, Zoot Theatre Company
Other Desert Cities, Human Race Theatre Company
Torch Song Trilogy, Human Race Theatre Company
War Horse, Victoria Theatre Association

BEST LOCALLY-PRODUCED PROFESSIONAL MUSICAL
Fiddler on the Roof, Human Race Theatre Company
I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change, Dare to Defy Productions
Play it By Heart, Human Race Theatre Company
The Rocky Horror (Puppet) Show, Zoot Theatre Company

BEST PROFESSIONAL TOURING MUSICAL
Bring it On: The Musical, Victoria Theatre Association
Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Victoria Theatre Association
Memphis, Victoria Theatre Association
Million Dollar Quartet, Victoria Theatre Association
Sister Act, Victoria Theatre Association

BEST COMMUNITY THEATER PRODUCTION OF A PLAY
An Inspector Calls, Dayton Theatre Guild
The Dead Guy, Dayton Theatre Guild
The Importance of Being Earnest, Brookville Community Theatre
Time Stands Still, Dayton Theatre Guild
The Whales of August, Dayton Playhouse

BEST COMMUNITY THEATER PRODUCTION OF A MUSICAL
The Gifts of the Magi, Dayton Theatre Guild
Hairspray, Dayton Playhouse
Into the Woods, Lebanon Theatre Company
Working, Dayton Playhouse

BEST COLLEGIATE PRODUCTION OF A PLAY
A Flea in Her Ear, Sinclair Community College
A Shayna Maidel, Sinclair Community College
Harvey, Wright State University
The Magic Fire, Wright State University

BEST COLLEGIATE PRODUCTION OF A MUSICAL
A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, University of Dayton
Les Misérables, Wright State University
Monty Python’s Spamalot, Sinclair Community College
Oklahoma!, Wright State University
The Wild Party, Wright State University

BEST NEW WORK
Hal Borden’s A Position of Relative Importance, Dayton Playhouse FutureFest
Marya Spring Cordes and Sean Michael Flowers’ Guarding Gold Street, Human Race Theatre Company
Steven Young’s The King’s Face, Dayton Playhouse FutureFest
Michael Kooman and Christopher Dimond’s The Noteworthy Life of Howard Barnes, Human Race Theatre Company
Tom Coash’s Veils, Dayton Playhouse FutureFest

BEST SPECIAL THEATRICAL EVENT
The Best of Broadway, Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra and Human Race Theatre Company
Black Violin, Victoria Theatre Association
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Epiphany Lutheran Church
Ragtime, Vandalia Youth Theatre Company
The Signature: A Poetic Medley Show Season 7 Opener, Oral Funk Poetry Productions and Human Race Theatre Company

BEST LEADING ACTOR IN A PLAY
Cameron Blankenship as Elwood P. Dowd, Harvey
Alex Carmichal as James Goodwin, Time Stands Still
Christopher Hahn as Eldon Phelps, The Dead Guy
Josh Katawick as Prince Harry of Monmouth, The King’s Face
Charles Larkowski as Arthur Birling, An Inspector Calls
Jamison Stern as Arnold Beckoff, Torch Song Trilogy

BEST LEADING ACTRESS IN A PLAY
Cassandra Engber as Sarah Goodwin, Time Stands Still
Marcia C. Nowik as Sarah Webber, The Whales of August
Jennifer Joplin as Brooke Wyeth, Other Desert Cities
Taylor Montgomery as Veta Louise Simmons, Harvey
Annie Pesch as Samar, Veils
Kate Young as Polly Wyeth, Other Desert Cities

BEST LEADING ACTOR IN A MUSICAL
Mark Beyer as Burrs, The Wild Party
JJ Parkey as Dr. Frank N. Furter, The Rocky Horror (Puppet) Show
Darick Pead as the Beast, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast
Drew Pulver as Tevye, Fiddler on the Roof
Andrew Quiett as Jean Valjean, Les Misérables
Brian Sharp as Edna Turnblad, Hairspray

BEST LEADING ACTRESS IN A MUSICAL
Rachel Coloff as Golde, Fiddler on the Roof
Paige Dobkins as Queenie, The Wild Party
Hilary Maiberger as Belle, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast
Sharva Maynard as Naomi Jasper, Play it By Heart
Lee Merrill as June, Guarding Gold Street
Jasmin Richardson as Felicia Farrell, Memphis

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A PLAY
Eric Arntz as Squealer, Animal Farm
Tommy DiMassimo as Gianni “Juan” Guarneri, The Magic Fire
John Hacker as Alan, Torch Song Trilogy
Charles Larkowski as Johnathon Bradmore, The King’s Face
Tray Shelton as Don Carlos Homenides de Histangua, A Flea in Her Ear
John Spitler as Charles, 45 Seconds From Broadway (Dayton Theatre Guild)

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A PLAY
Amy Askins as Gina Yaweth, The Dead Guy
Patty Bell as Raylean, 45 Seconds From Broadway (Dayton Theatre Guild)
Annie Branning as Sybil Birling, An Inspector Calls
Debra A. Kent as Arlene, 45 Seconds From Broadway (Dayton Theatre Guild)
Patricia Linhart as Lady Blues/Mrs. Beckoff, Torch Song Trilogy
Debra Strauss as Cindy, 45 Seconds From Broadway (Dayton Theatre Guild)

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A MUSICAL
Mark Beyer as Enjolras, Les Misérables
Drew Helton as Motel, Fiddler on the Roof
Bobby Mitchum as Willy Porter, The Gifts of the Magi
William “Kip” Moore as Ironworker, Publicist, Retiree and Father/Son, Working
Andrew Quiett as Jud Fry, Oklahoma!
Zack Steele as Marius, Les Misérables

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A MUSICAL
Kay Bosse as Nan, Guarding Gold Street
Natalie Houliston as Eddie and Dr. Scott, The Rocky Horror (Puppet) Show
Caitlyn Larsen as Yente/Grandma Tzeitel, Fiddler on the Roof
Kelli Locker as Velma Von Tussle, Hairspray
Liz Romey as Eponine, Les Misérables
Amy Wheeler as Fantine, Les Misérables

BREAKTHROUGH MALE PERFORMANCE
Ian Benjamin as Thenardier, Les Misérables
A.J. Breslin as Duvid Pechenik, A Shayna Maidel
Andrew Briner as John Worthing, The Importance of Being Earnest
Chris Carter as Milky White, Into the Woods
Law Dunford as Inspector Javert, Les Misérables
Leonardo Santucci as Eric Birling, An Inspector Calls

BREAKTHROUGH FEMALE PERFORMANCE
Alyssa Brembeck as Maddalena Guarneri, The Magic Fire
Tori Kocher as Penny Pingleton, Hairspray
Caitlyn Maurmeier as Sheila Birling, An Inspector Calls
Cassie Mikat as Madame Thenardier, Les Misérables
Kelsey Pohl as Kate, The Wild Party
Katrina Pontius as Cecily Cardew, The Importance of Being Earnest

Scott Stoney

BEST DIRECTION OF A PLAY
Geoff Burkman, The King’s Face
Debra A. Kent, Time Stands Still
Lee Merrill, The Magic Fire
Margarett Perry, Other Desert Cities
Scott Stoney, Torch Song Trilogy

BEST DIRECTION OF A MUSICAL
Jamie Cordes, The Wild Party
Gina Kleesattel, Monty Python’s Spamalot
W. Stuart McDowell, Les Misérables
Kevin Moore, Fiddler on the Roof
Megan Wean Sears, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

Teressa Wylie McWilliams

BEST CHOREOGRAPHY
Andy Blankenbuehler, Bring it On: The Musical
Teressa Wylie McWilliams, Oklahoma!
Jermaine R. Rembert, Memphis
Megan Wean Sears, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
Dionysia Williams, The Wild Party

BEST SCENIC DESIGN OF A PLAY
Michael Amico, Harvey
Fred Blumenthal, 45 Seconds From Broadway (Dayton Theatre Guild)
Tamara L. Honesty, Other Desert Cities
Chris Newman, An Inspector Calls
Blake Senseman, Time Stands Still

BEST SCENIC DESIGN OF A MUSICAL
Darrell Anderson, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum
Dick Block, Fiddler on the Roof
Pam Knauert Lavarnway, Les Misérables
Chris Newman, Hairspray
Terry Stump, Monty Python’s Spamalot

Carol Finley

BEST COSTUME DESIGN OF A PLAY
D. Bartlett Blair, Harvey
David J. Castellano, The Magic Fire
Carol Finley, An Inspector Calls
Kathleen Hotmer, A Flea in Her Ear
Janet G. Powell, Other Desert Cities

BEST COSTUME DESIGN OF A MUSICAL
D. Bartlett Blair, Les Misérables
Steve Burton and Tim Grewe, Hairspray
Kathleen Hotmer, Monty Python’s Spamalot
Maria Klueber and Lori Watamaniuk, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
Lisa Loen, Oklahoma!

BEST LIGHTING DESIGN OF A PLAY
Daniel Brunk, A Shayna Maidel
David Corson, Time Stands Still
John Falkenbach, The King’s Face
Samantha Jelinek, The Magic Fire
Erin Jones, Harvey

BEST LIGHTING DESIGN OF A MUSICAL
Matthew P. Benjamin and Erin Jones, Les Misérables
Joe Beumer, Monty Python’s Spamalot
Timothy A. Guth, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
Kody Lupori, The Wild Party
John Rensel, Fiddler on the Roof

K.L Storer

BEST SOUND DESIGN OF A PLAY
Nathan D. Dean, Animal Farm
Richard M. Dionne, Torch Song Trilogy
James Dunlap, The Magic Fire
Fran Pesch, Veils
K.L Storer, Time Stands Still

BEST SOUND DESIGN OF A MUSICAL
Nathan D. Dean, Fiddler on the Roof
James Dunlap, Les Misérables
James Dunlap, Oklahoma!
Kai Harada, Million Dollar Quartet
Cody Spencer, Bring it On: The Musical

BEST ORCHESTRA
Hairspray (Musical Director: Judy Mansky)
Monty Python’s Spamalot (Musical Director: Daniel Greene; Conductor: Dr. Kenneth Kohlenberg)
Les Misérables (Musical Director: Scot Woolley)
Oklahoma! (Wright State) (Musical Director: Scot Woolley)
The Wild Party (Musical Director: Sherri Sutter; Conductor: Ian Benjamin)

BEST PROPERTIES
Jason Hamen and Adrienne Niess, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
John Lavarnway, Les Misérables
John Lavarnway, The Magic Fire
Tina McPhearson and Chris Newman, Hairspray
Blake Senseman and Deirdre Bray Root, Time Stands Still

SPECIAL ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
• Jacklyn Alexa’s prosthetics/makeup, Jim Foreman and Amanda Gray’s properties, Charles Larkowski’s music selections, Fran Pesch’s set design, Deirdre Root’s costumes, and Blake Senseman’s props and extractor fabrication for The King’s Face
• George Abud, Jay Brunner, Brent Eresman, and Joel Greenberg as the kletzmer band of Fiddler on the Roof
• Michael and Sandy Bashaw’s music accompaniment for Fellow Passengers (Dayton Playhouse)
• Julia Brown’s piano accompaniment and Josh Vantilburgh’s violin accompaniment for I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change
• Bruce Brown’s scenic design for Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
• Tiffany Cichanowicz as Dream Laurey in the Dream Ballet of Oklahoma! choreographed by Barbara Pontecorvo (Dayton Playhouse)
• Deb Colvin-Tener, Jamie Cordes, Marya Spring Cordes, Scott Hunt, Patricia Linhart, Claire Northcut, Katie Pees, Jay Pierce, Scott Stoney, and Michelle Zimmerman in The Best of Broadway
• Megan Cooper, Franklin Johnson and Charles Larkowski as Ebenezer Scrooge and others in Fellow Passengers (Dayton Playhouse)
• John Countryman as Jerry Lee Lewis, Tyler K. Hunter as Elvis Presley, Scott Moreau as Johnny Cash, and H. Bradley Waters as Carl Perkins in Million Dollar Quartet
• D. Tristan Cupp and Leesa Haapapuro’s puppet design for Animal Farm
• Jackie Darnell, Zach King, Bobby Mitchum and Mackensie Vonderbrink in I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change
• Fred Garbo, Joe Deer, Lula Elzy, Douglas Merk, and Timothy Olt fashioning “The Circus McGurkus” for Seussical (Muse Machine)
• Director Steven Haines and Bryan Wallingford as the Baker for Into the Woods
• David Hallowren as Jud Fry, Karen Righter as Aunt Eller and Jeff Sams as Curly in Oklahoma! (Dayton Playhouse)
• David Hallowren as Ebenezer Scrooge, Leonardo Santucci as the Ghost of Christmas Present, and Maximillian Santucci as Jacob Marley in A Christmas Carol: A Radio Play (Undercroft Players)
• Mathys Herbert as Otto Berg in The Magic Fire
• Tony Ray Hicks’ costumes for Fiddler on the Roof
• Joshua Hughes’ rendition of “Those Canaan Days” in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
• Director Lisa Howard-Welch and Patti King as Lady Bracknell for The Importance of Being Earnest
• Jux-ta-posed, Sinclair’s presentation of new works, featuring Nelson Sheeley’s The Art of Dying and John Ray’s Gilligan, the Titanic, and Other Small Tragedies
• Annettte Looper’s choreography for Hairspray
• The Muse Machine’s All You Need is Love: The Music of the Beatles and Friends summer concert featuring Amber Knicole’s renditions of “Eleanor Rigby” and “Hey Jude”
• Chris Newman’s scenic design for Fellow Passengers and Oklahoma! (Dayton Playhouse)
• John Riley’s scenic design for The Whales of August
• Director Bijan Sheibani, Handspring Puppet Company’s puppetry, Tony-winning sound designer Christopher Shutt, and Karen Spahn’s adaptation of Paule Constable’s Tony-winning lighting design for War Horse
• Linda Sellers’ costumes for The Gifts of the Magi
• K.L. Storer’s music selections for Time Stands Still
• Deborah Thomas’ dialect coaching and Lydia Watson’s scenic design for The Magic Fire
• Rodney Veal’s choreography for Monty Python’s Spamalot
• Luke Williams’ piano accompaniment for The Gifts of the Magi and Into the Woods
• Ayn Kaetchen Wood’s costumes for The Rocky Horror (Puppet) Show
• Ray Zupp’s set design for I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change

A Year of (DE-FI)ance: A Look Back

July 8, 2014 By Dayton937

The second issue of (DE-FI)ance Magazine is on sale now at http://www.magcloud.com/browse/issue/754946?__r=43

This weekend, the Dayton Emerging Fashion Incubator (DE-FI) LLC will be celebrating its 1 year Anniversary with (DE-FI) Gives Back that will include a Habitat For Humanity Build on Friday July 11^th, on Saturday July 12^th we will help out with some activities benefiting Homefull, and on Sunday July 13^th we will be supporting (DE-FI) Designer Misti Leigh who will be hosting a Casting Call for the first major fashion event that the City of Springfield has hosted when she presents Fashion Forward Fusion on August 16. The Casting Call will take place at the Boonshoft Museum in Springfield located at 465 Upper Valley Pike, Springfield, OH 45504 from 1pm-3pm. For more info about the Casting Call and Fashion Forward Fusion please visit http://www.iiifashionevents.com.

As the owner and CEO of the Dayton Emerging Fashion Incubator (DE-FI) LLC, I’ve been doing a lot of reflecting over the past year since we first launched with our Fashion In the Mystic Garden Event held at SunWatch Indian Village on July 13, 2013. What an event that was, we had amazing designers, a Native American Drum Group, a fire lit runway, fire dancers, and so much more all in the majestic setting of the restored village. We’ve come a long way since that day, I remember being so stressed out that day and unable to gather my thoughts, I was like an egg shell ready to crack at the gentlest of touches. In fact I stayed away most of the day during the preparation process and when I did come back to check on the progress I hid in the huts of SunWatch calling the individuals that I needed to speak with to come out to meet with me to avoid being bombarded with questions! lol

Over the past year we’ve learned so many lessons, grown leaps and bounds, and we are ready to keep the ball rolling and continue with that upward climb of shining a spotlight on Dayton Emerging Fashion scene! In the beginning, we had a million and one ideas on what we wanted this Incubator to be and how it should operate. We played around with a lot of ideas some were wildly successful, others bombed big time, and some we just needed to work out the kinks and adjust accordingly; after all there weren’t a lot of organizations out there that we could model our incubator after, all we knew is we wanted something that supported and nurtured the growth of local fashion designers, models, and other fashion professionals.

Model: Iain Steele
Designer: Berny Martin of Catou
Event: Fashion In The Mystic Garden
Location: SunWatch Indian Village Photographer: Reginald Worthen

One of the major and most successful initiatives that we took on was the unprecedented act of waiving the fees for designers to showcase their designs and we paid our models! Believe it or not this sent shock waves through the fashion community and we caught a lot of heat from other fashion organizations and groups. Some attacked us by saying that we are a For Profit Organization and that because they are a Non-Profit 501 (3) (c) that they couldn’t pay their designers or models and therefore relied only on the use of volunteer to serve as staff and models…NEWSFLASH the Salvation Army, Habitat For Humanity, and numerous other organizations that are Non-Profit 501 (3) (C)’s pay their staff, so ones tax status has nothing to do with ability to pay those who help you grow your business it more about the willingness to share your profits. However, in saying that 95% of what we do self-included is Volunteer and we only get paid when we have an event the the past 365 days we’ve only had 3 events but the amount of time and days of work that we put into what we do as volunteers cannot be measured and is priceless not to mention the fact that everyone from our staff, designers, and models are required to volunteer at least 40hrs a year in their respective communities to be a part of (DE-FI).

It’s not easy to start a new business especially one that is a new concept and a misunderstood industry in the Dayton and Miami Valley areas. (DE-FI) was started with $150 and in our first year of existence we have raised nearly $30,000 and out of that we’ve paid nearly $10,000 out to our designers, models, and staff for their work in helping us to market, promote, and sale tickets to our events. But our giving didn’t stop there, we’ve been very active in the community whether it’s supporting and sponsoring events for our Official Non-Profit the Circle of Vision Keepers Re-Entry and Recovery program, or sponsoring the Northmont High School Girls Volleyball Team, Fashion Angels by America’s Next Top Model Contestant Laura Kirkpatrick, My Beauty is Priceless Youth Empowerment Seminars, Metaphorically Speaking Poetry Slam, buying ads for the Adams Project, being a sponsor for Team Iris, a local teenager battling Lupus for the Walk to End Lupus Now in Columbus, and sponsoring (DE-FI) Designer Misti Leigh’s very first Fashion Productions Fashion Forward Fusion in Springfield, and many more. (DE-FI) will always take the time to give to those who have given to us!

A lot of people look at me as the CEO and have in mind what they think a CEO should be and how I should act, or how I should handle various situations, and then they look at the industry in which we work thru tunnel vision or narrow minded views and they assume that I or other member of the (DE-FI) leadership have no experience in a “legitimate” career field. Personally, I like to think that (DE-FI) is a reflection of who I am as a person—I’m comfortable in my own skin, I have a heart of gold, I’m willing to help anyone who asks for help, I have a creative vision, I’m open, transparent, eager to learn, eager to teach, vocal, outspoken, intelligent, fun, and witty, a ta bit stubborn at times, not afraid to fail but determined to succeed, flawed, and when crossed…well Hell hath no fury! lol Truly living up to the name (DE-FI) pronounced “defy”.

We use the moniker (DE-FI) to dare people to challenge the odds and the status quo; on our Facebook page and website we say (DE-FI) Style and (DE-FI) Trends and in this past year sadly we’ve had to use (DE-FI) Stereotypes. Again, the Dayton Emerging Fashion Incubator (DE-FI) LLC is a reflection of me and my life which since the age of 5 has been diverse, I grew up in an inter-racial family, I’ve always had a diverse group of friends, and in an Industry where diversity isn’t always celebrated in terms of the standard of beauty (DE-FI) took a stand and once again did something unprecedented, on the cover of the first issue of (DE-FI)ance Magazine I put a 60+ year old Dutch-Indonesian Model on the cover of the magazine, she was join on the cover by a Haitian Model, a model of Hispanic Descent, an” All-American” Model, and an Iranian model all appeared on the cover. With well over 100 copies sold, the first issue of (DE-FI)ance was recently nominated, voted, and won the Best Emerging Media Award from the Posed Fashion Awards in Columbus, thousands of votes were tallied from across the country.

The award winning issue of (DE-FI)ance Magazine can be purchased on our website.
Models from L-R: Irene Smallwood-Bosma, Aube Jolicieur, Monica Gonzalez, Keilha Jude, and Jasmine Kashani
Photographer: Lamar Pacley
MUA: Angelica Ross
Hair Stylist: Stacia McVey

This cover not only represents me and (DE-FI) but it represents Dayton, and the United States as a whole. Yet, racism and bogotry reared its ugly head. For those of you who don’t know, I am African-American, I was never raised or taught to use the color of my skin as a crutch to limp through life on, or to be reduced by my stereo-type, I come from a family of Civil Rights activist who shoulders I stand on and whose memories I reflect on, and whose sacrifices I will not forget. As I look back over the past year and all of the memories, friendships, and partnerships that we have formed most bring a smile to my face but in January of this year I was told by Marty Smallwood of the Priority Board after A Taste of (DE-FI)ance that the only way (DE-FI) will grow and be successful is if I “Diversified” my team and my audience. Marty saw way too many black faces on my staff, on my runway, and in my audience for his liking and apparently having that many black people in one place is not a good thing and there is no way we could ever be successful.

But it didn’t stop there, upon finding out that I was black a week prior to A Taste of (DE-FI)ance, the manager of Therapy Café Jospeh (lastname unknown) where the event was being held yelled and shouted obscenities at me during a scheduled rehearsal at Therapy telling both myself and an African-American Advisory Board Member of (DE-FI) that “he’s tired of hosting black parties and that black parties are the reason that the City of Dayton is trying to put him out of business”. Please keep in mind that the majority of Therapy Café’s patrons are African-American events and parties that range from Professional, Artistic, Cultural, and regular parties, so just to be clear African-Americans are the reason that Therapy Café is in business. For the record, there wasn’t a single fight, stabbing, robbery, or shooting at our event or any of our events for that matter. But I’m not here to dwell on the negative or give ignorance and bigotry a platform but for the first time in my life I was ready to pack up and leave Dayton, felt discouraged and questioned whether or not I would be able to do all of the things that I had envisioned. But then I was quickly reminded of the hundreds of people that I had standing beside me and behind me cheering me on and lifting me up and made a conscious decision to not allow anyone or anything block my/our blessings but no matter what obstacles come our way we will continue to stay the course.

We have had nearly 30 of our models that we have scouted signed to Modeling agencies around the country and world. Some have ripped the runway during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, some have modeled for Abercrombie and Fitch, and they’ve appeared in national campaigns for GNC and Graeters Ice Cream. They are working in major motion pictures; they’ve appeared on the covers of Vogue Africa and in the pages of Vogue Italia. Our designers are being requested nationally, other fashion weeks from around the country are requesting information on our designers and models all of which are from right here in the Dayton and surrounding areas. I’ve been invited to serve my third season with the Council of Fashion Designers of America’s High Competitive Volunteer Program to get hands on experience during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in New York. Our designers have had their designs purchased right off of the runway, so needless to say the positive far outweigh the negative.

Event: Taste of (DE-FI)ance
Designer: Misti Leigh
Models: L-R Rylie Janczarek,Shampain Sims, Amber Watson, Suzanne Robke Brock, Meliah Walker
Photographer: Lamar Pacley

Like every organization we’ve added people to our team to help us reach the next level and we’ve removed people from our team who didn’t quite live up to their own hype or fulfill their duties. We’ve dealt with the stage mom and dad who were upset that “Little Timmy” wasn’t the super star that they thought that he was. We’ve had the ego-manic designers that thought that the earth revolved around them. We’ve dealt with the people who only showed up for the glory of the success but were nowhere to be found during the blood, sweat, and tears that went into the process of reaching the success. We’ve faced the nay sayers, the doubters, the coat-tail riders, and we’ve silenced them all by just being ourselves

Our biggest challenge is again changing the perception of the industry as a whole; we still have event coordinators asking where do you want the “T” for the runway and the microphone set up for the emcee to talk about the outfit the model is wearing. We have people shocked to see that we don’t use industry standards for models; we have 5’1 models and brace yourself we have models that range in sizes from a 0 to an 18!! We challenge the way things are done here in Dayton, you know the exact same faces, doing the exact same things, the exact same way, but maybe their titles have changed. We have created new leaders in the community and empowered hundreds of people through the entrepreneurial spirit to promote themselves and their dreams; all growing our network and net worth in the process.

Model: Victoria Ashton
Designer: Baha and Reza
Event: First Flight Now Fashion
Location Commander Aero
Photographer: Pete Bradow

(DE-FI) is made up of local business owners, community leaders, and Fortune 500 Business Executives who are working together to help make others dreams come true and that alone speaks volumes of this organization and why I love it and the members who have stood by me through some major trials and tribulations personally and professionally. One year later through the mostly good sprinkled with a few bad times, the core leadership that helped me to launch this organization are still all together and still standing strong ready to move forward with making Dayton, OH a fashion destination for emerging and established fashion professionals!!

So what’s next for the Dayton Emerging Fashion Incubator (DE-FI) LLC? Well, now that we have a clearer vision and a more (DE-FI)ned mission; we have launched the Art of (DE-FI)ance Fashion Fund LLC which is Non-Profit company that is currently in the process of becoming a 501 (3) (C) Tax status. While (DE-FI) will continue on as an event planning Fashion Organization giving emerging and established Designers and Fashion Professionals a platform to showcase their work and talent; the Art of (DE-FI)ance Fashion Fund LLC will serve as a means to support designer, photographers, and models financially in the pursuit of their dreams, be it scholarships to Fashion institutes, covering registration fees into influential fashion weeks across the country, the purchase of fabrics or equipment, or covering the cost of gas for models going to casting calls or jobs that can have a positive impact on their careers this is just a sneak peek of what in the near future for us. Most importantly, we are still going to continue on our grass roots path meaning there are no big “I’s” and little “you’s”, we are going to continue to promote our organization through network and giving people a #FashionExperience that they never thought possible coming from “Dayton”, and above all we will continue to give back.

Event: First Flight Now Fashion
Designer: Erika Berthy of Gowns by Beartie and Berny Martin of Catou
Models L-R Iain Steele, Keilah Jude, and Anthony Jr.
Photographer: Lamar Pacley

Some people may not understand why I run (DE-FI) the way I do which is kind of loose and free spirited, I step up the pressure on my staff and team when and where it’s needed, when I’m struggling with an issue or have questions I go to my staff and team for their assistance, and yes I’ve even called several of them crying my eyes out. We laugh together, we pray together, we cry together, we work hard together and when it’s time for Lights, Cameras…Action, we put on one hell of a show! From the bottom of my heart and on behalf of everyone from (DE-FI) thank you to each and every last one of you who have supported us and our mission since day one or contributed to our success over the past year. There are too many of you to thank individually and many of you who we may not even know, please know that we couldn’t do any of this without you and it’s your faith in us that serves as the driving force behind everything that we do!!

For more information on the Dayton Emerging Fashion Incubator (DE-FI) LLC and the Art of (DE-FI)ance or how you can purchase our Designers clothes, please visit our website at http://www.daytonemergingfashionincubator.com or text “DEFI” to 55469. #TakingItToTheNextLevel #FirstFlightNowFashion