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Things to do in Dayton | Restaurants, Theatre, Music and More

Archives for September 2014

The Ohio Coffee Co. Celebrates Five Years

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Ohio Coffee CoReaching the five year milestone in the restaurant business is a tremendous accomplishment. Especially in downtown Dayton during a recession. But The Ohio Coffee Co. has fought to stay alive and has even grown during its first five years. Wednesday, 10/1/14,  is five years in business for this independent mom and pop shop.

The owners of the OCC are Robert Gray and Becky Ledingham Gray. When they first opened their business in 2009, they only wanted to be a coffee shop. But, customers kept

Owners Becky & Robert Gray

Owners Becky & Robert Gray

asking for food. The Grays had months to plan for a coffee shop and only weeks to plan for a kitchen. With the help of their devoted family, friends and employees they have a stayed alive, serving the Central Business District of downtown Dayton.

Wanting to be closer to more businesses in downtown, the cafe moved in 2012 from 5th & Ludlow to their current location at 3rd and Main St. The cafe is inside the Fifth Third Tower, right beside court house square. Located at 1 S. Main St., you will find an espresso bar as well as a breakfast and lunch hot spot. In the Grand lobby enjoy the natural light from the atrium ceiling while being surrounded by plants to add to your relaxation. Or sit inside the cafe and chat it up with the baristas Bill or Burt. The conversations and music variety will brighten your day.

 

temple of shroom

OCC’s Temple of Shroom

The kitchen crew makes food fresh daily using quality products such as soups from scratch, fresh salads, breakfast and lunch sandwiches, gyros, wraps and quesadillas. The daily specials keep you trying new things, while the names of the dishes will sometimes crack you up. Customers who are in a hurry can check the deli case for grab and go items also prepared that morning.

“The cafe could have never opened without the support of family and friends” said Becky Ledingham Gray. Rob’s sister and brother-in-law Carrie and Duane Dow make the Big Yummy cookies, and Becky’s mother Sally makes the pumpkin bread. “The employees are just like family to us” said Robert Gray.

 

The Ohio Coffee Co. has expanded to include breakfast, lunch and coffee catering as well as lunch box orders and is open Monday through Friday from 8am – 3:30pm. Customers can call 937-228-5282 (JAVA) or e-mail [email protected] for more information. Like us on facebook to get our daily specials.

 

Story submitted by Becky Ledingham Gray

 

Dayton Homeowners Can Get A Free Shade Tree

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shadetreeDaytonTopCity of Dayton residents (homeowners) have the opportunity to have a large shade tree planted for free. The City of Dayton has 360 2” caliper shade trees available.  Once planted, the tree becomes the responsibility of the homeowner.  Trees can be planted in the public right-of-way or front yard, near the right-of-way. All trees must be planted away from overhead utility lines to avoid future problems.

Once planted, the homeowner is responsibile for the tree care, watering, and maintenance.  These 2” caliper trees require lots of water to get the roots established in your yard. According to the Arbor Day Foundation, “To thrive and survive trees require deep watering for the first two years after planting.” In this area it is generally recommended to water 15 gallons of water per week for two years during the active growing cycle (May to October).

City Arborist Michael Humston wants to remind you that trees improve the quality of life and are a part of the community character of Dayton: “The City has lost many trees due to age, past trimming practices, and the emerald ash borer. We need to take action now to replenish the trees we’ve lost. Trees offer many benefits including economic, studies demonstrate that trees increase property values 5-20% and reduce heating and cooling costs.”

All requests for trees must be received by the October 31, 2014.  Planting will begin in November and all trees must be planted by the end of the year.  See the trees that are available. There are a limited number of trees available so you are to sign-up early, you can apply here.

 

‘Pride and Prejudice’ Review –Sinclair Community College –Inclusive Austen

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Film and TV actress Keke Palmer made headlines three weeks ago when she became the first African-American Cinderella on Broadway in “Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella.” But you don’t have to go to New York City to witness that kind of unique, outside the box casting. After all, Sinclair Community College’s wonderfully charming production of Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice” takes a similarly non-traditional approach that allows the classic tale to refreshingly breathe anew.
Elegantly directed with beautifully fluid transitions by Kimberly Borst, “Pride and Prejudice,” breezily adapted by Joseph Hanreddy and J.R. Sullivan, brings the lovely Ariqa Bowens and handsome Shaun Diggs to the thoroughly engaging forefront as prickly adversaries-turned-lovers Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy. As Austen’s enlightening study of class, manners, privilege, and romance transpires, Bowens and Diggs delicately convey the cool repartee required to sell the complexity of their iconic roles. Bowens, graceful and intuitive in her breakthrough performance, particularly shines during Elizabeth and Darcy’s first awkward dance (which Borst astutely heightens by freezing the world around them) as well as Elizabeth’s late evening showdown with Darcy’s haughty, imposing aunt Lady Catherine de Bourgh (a perfectly stern and conceited Anna Sheldon). Diggs, the brooding epitome of male detachment, effectively softens Darcy’s aloof heart as he grows to care for and adore the incredibly headstrong Elizabeth.

pride and prejudice

(center left to right) Shaun Diggs as Mr. Darcy, CJ Suchyta as Sir William Lucas and Ariqa Bowens as Elizabeth Bennet in Sinclair Community College’s production of Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice.” (Contributed photo by Patti Celek)

In addition to the aforementioned Stern, Bowens and Diggs are strongly supported by the particularly appealing contributions of the marvelously understated Charles Larkowksi as the kindly Mr. Bennet, the delightful Kate Gieselman as meddling Mrs. Bennet, the sweet and sensitive Cassidy Rowley as Jane Bennet, Jasmine Barrett as the reserved Mary Bennet, Degreona Herrod as the humorously overlooked Kitty Bennet, the spiritedly perky Hayley Penchoff as Lydia Bennet, the amiable Woody Hieb as Mr. Bingley, the dynamically icy Ashlee Ferrell as Caroline Bingley, the magnetic Kevin Manley as Mr. Wickham, CJ Suchyta as Sir William Lucas, Natalie Sanders as Lady Lucas, and the scene-stealing Austin DeVaughn who reinterprets minister Mr. Collins with a comical outspokenness and a deliberately passionate cadence steeped in the traditions of the African-American church. The fine cast also features Aeriel Aniballi (Mrs. Reynolds),Matt Poliachik (Ensign Denny) , David Brandt (Fitzwilliam), James Butler (Servant), Greyson Calvert (Servant), Rebecca Henry (Servant), Jesse MaGill (Captain Carter), Kira Miller (Mrs. Gardiner), Leah Mikesell (Georgiana Darcy), Andre Tomlinson (Servant), Ella Wylie (Anne de Bourgh), and Jessica Zula (Charlotte Lucas).
Austen’s world is exquisitely realized from a design standpoint by Chris Harmon’s stunning estate set (one of his finest creations) featuring nearly 20 portraits, Kathleen Hotmer’s attractive period costumes, Michelle Sampson’s first-rate wig and hair creations, Jennifer Kramer’s properties, and Daniel Brunk’s evocative lighting and sound.
“Pride and Prejudice” purists will have qualms with Sinclair’s showcase which unabashedly takes liberties with the authenticity of early 19th century England. Even so, the inclusive magic of theater proves its rejuvenating worth nonetheless in one of the best and most enjoyable productions I have seen at Sinclair.

 

“Pride and Prejudice” continues through Oct. 4 at Sinclair Community College, Blair Hall Theatre, Building 2, 444 W. Third St., Dayton. Performances are Wednesday at 10 a.m., Thursday at 7 p.m., and Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. Act One: 80 minutes; Act Two: 60 minutes. Tickets are $18 for adults and $15 for seniors and students. All Thursday tickets (Downtown Dayton Thursday Night) cost an additional $10 each and include pre-show county picnic buffet dinner beginning at 5:30 p.m. For tickets or more information, call (937) 512-2808 or visit www.sinclair.edu/tickets.

ShakesBeer: A Double Dose of Craft

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Question:

What is ShakesBeer?Shakespearecombined_HiRes

A) A casual mix and mingle for downtown residents and employees.

B) A fun way to enjoy Shakespeare’s Othello through a modern (and much shortened!) production.

C) An opportunity to go behind-the-scenes at one of Dayton’s local craft breweries.

Answer:

All of the above!

Dayton Metro Library is hosting a free after-work networking event on Thursday, October 9 at the Main Library (215 E. Third Street, Dayton) with a double dose of craft.

First up: Enjoy the craft of acting from The Human Race Theatre Company as they perform a shortened and modern version of Shakespeare’s Othello (40 minutes of tweets and deceit) at the Main Library in Downtown Dayton. Then: Head across the street to Warped Wing to enjoy craft beer. Take a tour, take home a special pint glass (first 50 attendees), and enjoy locally-brewed beer available for purchase.

Don’t miss this free event for your opportunity to mix and mingle with other downtown residents and employees in a casual and quick ShakesBeerian adventure.

What’s on tap?

4:30 p.m. – Mix and mingle with fellow downtowners at the Library while you peruse the diverse items from the ShakesBeer collection: plays, modern movie remakes, home brew how-tos, great soundtracks, best brewery guides and more.

5 p.m. – Showtime! The Human Race Theatre Company presents their original production #othello. Adapted and directed by Aaron Vega. All the knavery of this classic tragedy fits into a fast-paced 40 minutes.

5:45 p.m. – As the show wraps, actors will be available for questions and comments about how plays translate from the page to the stage, and you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the fine craft of acting.

6 p.m. – We got our Shakes in, now for the Beer. Head across the street as Warped Wing offers a tour of the craft brewery to see behind-the-scenes magic. First 50 attendees to hand in their ticket will take home a free pint glass!

 

 

JD SOUTHER Singer/Songwriter – The Name May Not Be Familiar, But The Songs Sure Are!

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j.d.-souther-03It’s not every actor who receives a “good job” email from Don Henley after his TV series premieres, but J.D. Souther isn’t your typical thespian. Sharp-eyed music fans may have done a double take when they saw Souther in the role of fictional country music legend Watty White in ABC’s addictive new nighttime soap Nashville.

That’s the opening paragraph from David Browne in a Rolling Stone article at J.D. Souther.   When asked how he got cast in the Nashville TV show, he explains, “I flew into New York to play Lincoln Center, and while I was standing at baggage claim, my friend Rita Wilson, who sang “Faithless Love” on her new album, texted me and said, ‘Call when you get to town.’ She said, ‘I’m having dinner with T Bone Burnett, Callie Khouri, Norah Ephron and all these people you like, so come join us.’ I said, ‘I’m in Queens right now.’ But the driver took me right to the restaurant, and Callie said she was writing a show about Nashville and I said, ‘Fantastic.’ A few months went by and my agent called and said, ‘I got a call for you to come in to read for Callie’s new show.’ ”

As one of the principal architects of the “Southern California sound,” Souther played a key role in the formation of the Eagles and co-wrote the band’s hits “Heartache Tonight,” “Victim of Love,” “New Kid in Town,” and “Best of My Love,” and Don Henley’s super hit “The Heart of the Matter,” as well as writing Linda Ronstadt’s classics “Faithless Love,” “Simple Man, Simple Dream,” and “Prisoner in Disguise.” A highly sought-after songwriter and session man, Souther also released three critically acclaimed solo albums—  John David Souther (1972), Black Rose (1976), andYou’re Only Lonely (1979)

In 1984, Souther followed the chart-topping successes of  “You’re Only Lonely” and the James Taylor duet “Her Town Too” with Home by Dawn, an album that Rolling Stone and Time Magazine declared his best. He has collaborated with countless world-renowned musicians including Bonnie Raitt; Warren Zevon; Don Henley; Linda Ronstadt; Paul Williams; Crosby, Stills & Nash; Hugh Masekela; Burt Bacharach; Dixie Chicks; India Arie; Roy Orbison; Arthur Hamilton; George Strait; Brian Wilson; and Trisha Yearwood.

MORE ABOUT JD SOUTHER

 
Following a leave of absence in 1985 to build his dream house, travel and spend time with his dogs (all rescues, of course), Souther marked his return to songwriting with three critically acclaimed albums, If World Was You (Slow Curve Records), Rain: Live at the Belcourt (Slow Curve Records), and Natural History (eOne).

In 2007, he wrote the Eagles comeback single “How Long,” which was featured on Long Road Out of Eden, their first studio album since 1979. In 2009, JD was presented with the Golden Note Award at the 47th annual ASCAP Country Music Awards. He is also regular character on the hit ABC show “Nashville” as legendary producer, songwriter and mentor Watty White.

A decade-long Nashville resident, Souther tells Rolling Stone that the show “feels authentic to people in this world… for most of the people who live here, they’re thrilled there’s finally a show in which they escape the usual stereotype.”

In the fall of 2012, JD released Midnight in Tokyo (eOne Music), a live collection of his music alongside Ellington and Ray Henderson. He describes the album as “rough and smooth and wonderful─ saloon music in the night.” The live album was recorded on in Japan.

Souther was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2013.
Tickets for the Oct 10th 7:30pm show at Victoria Theatre start at $29 and are on sale now.  To purchase tickets in person visit the Ticket Center Stage Box Office located in the Wintergarden at the Schuster Center or call 937-228-3630, 888-228-3630 or visitwww.ticketcenterstage.com today!

DMM TICKET GIVEAWAY!

For one lucky reader- we’ve got a pair of ticket for you to see this show. To enter our random drawing, fill out our entry form and leave a comment below with your favorite Souther written song.  Winner will be named here;

Jimmy Smith- congrats- you’ll be our guest to this show!

 

REVIEW: Oddbody’s Brings the Solstice to Dayton

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Crucifixion (photo by Tom Wilson)

Crucifixion (photo by Tom Wilson)

Saturday September 6th, could be seen as a night when the perpetually moving solstice of change and evolution in the Dayton scene was showcased on the Oddbody’s stage. The young, upcoming new blood opened followed by the established former instrumentalists with a new voice and the scene veterans played direct support to the national headliners.

The origins of Crucifixation spawned when guitarist Max Mobarry and bassist Shane Tucker finally got a chance to jam during the summer of 2012. A few months later the two, along with vocalist Eric Bucio started jamming discovering a mutual love of intense metal music. Eric suggested they form a band and Crucifixation was brought forth onto this earth. After a year-long search, they were contacted by drummer Jorden Garberson, who became the man behind the kit. They’ve assembled an onslaught of brutal thrashing metal honoring the greats and destroying those who stand in the path of their unholy Crucifixaters.

Playing hard and banging harder they tore into their set playing with an old school Sepultura meets early 90’s Florida death metal roar, throwing buckets of adrenaline and fury on stage. Opener Infestation carried the militaristic march of the young soldiers hitting with the first wave of heavy artillery. Redemption brought the slow, evil, seething technical death thrash slowly slithering towards you. Breastflesh cracked the bones, softening up the anatomy for the pluck pounding and Cannibal Corpse lyrics. Max Mobarry was definitely Puckin’ Around waving his long crimson red windmill mop at hurricane speed as they played homage to the game on ice and any other hockey masked guy prone to violence. What could be their future Toxic Waltz, Stand Up and Thrash had a nice bass groove with some Slayerish riffs and an almost boogie feel. Bucio delivered screams, growls and some spoken word vocals. Besides Death, Cannibal Corpse and Six Feet Under it’s fitting that Morbid Angels in there as Mobarry could be the younger doppelganger of Erik Rutan.

Zuel now has the voice of Brandon Hawk, a younger Dan Lilker in appearance, and they started with No One Has Partied Here in Years, aka Johnny. They bring the hardcore belated hangover shoveling it in with bulldozer guitars, a bit of Fear Factory industrial tools, some sweet melodious Death courtesy ofUncle Chuck and some Morbid Angel signature guitar slides providing the musical diary and building blocks of a madman’s metal puzzle.  Unfettered aka Year Long sounded like Opeth falling down an open air spiraling staircase, smashing into an ascending Mastodon during a lightning storm. Whisper in the Ear aka 1984 had a nice descending mental melody and deliriously mad, dark mood.

They finished with Take Kindly/Endless Rapture and The Flaws We Seal as Secrets. Keep updated on these multi-stylistic noise makers often seen at Hanks Pub, Oddbody’s, Blind Bob’s and on top of tall buildings being shot by proton packs.

Forces of Nature (photo by Tom Wilson)

Forces of Nature (photo by Tom Wilson)

One of Dayton’s hardest working/scene supporting bands Forces of Nature played the stage under the Oddbody’s banner for the first time cranking out metal meal riff-muncher Magnus Lee as Tate Moore summoned his inner cookie monster and accompanying serpents tongue. We took a lovely stroll through piles of death and carnage caused by one man’s madness and wrath or your favorite conqueror, tyrant or serial killer of choice. The Godsey’s, Jimmy Rose and Johnnie Wallace gave the Forest of Corpses life; Moore gave mutilation and anguish a voice. They played the stalking chainsaw wielding killer in the woods past midnight pace of Mary Hates Herself. It’s a wonderful life, live it loud and play it with metal. Quote, the Forces of Nature, Nevermore. Throwing Fists in the pit, it’s hit or miss, till you get your ass kicked for being a dick. Wallace continues to shine against two powerhouse guitarists bringing Dimebag’s spirit to the bass. They gave a loud reminder that we’re all dwellers on this Black Earth. A set mostly taken from the new Dark Ages CD ends with A.S.O.T. questioning God and country’s need for martyrdom and some seriously weird, creepy s**t descending down the walls as blood runs up.

From the air, heat, sand and dirt of Florida’s early 90’s death/thrash metal explosion spawning Death, Deicide, Obituary and Cannibal Corpse among many others comes the Solstice. Founded by drummer Alex Marquez (Malevolent Creation), Rob Barrett (Cannibal Corpse) and Dennis Munoz (Iniquitous) and newly recruited Ryan Taylor (Atomik) on rhythm guitar and vocals they brought three records of speed and thrash to the stage. Taylor brought the noise Vio-lence to the forefront starting with an Age of Quarrel song from the Cro-Mags. Starting from 1992’s self-titled debut, they dove straight into the darker side of the mirror on Netherworld. Upon the wastelands arose a true unholy decimator of all that’s conquerable with a Cataclysmic Outburst. The land of the free, pulled by the strings of filthy politicians, must be Cleansed of Impurity. By any means necessary. Aberration asks how much pain can we possibly bear with such a young soul. They send some respect to the Bronx, pounding with 44 Caliber Brain Surgery to the head, Demolition Hammer style.

Plasticized, your aging body is rotten as you’re rolled up into a corner and forgotten. The Eternal Waking of one’s inner self to a world of inner consciousness and dreams. They took the first page from the steamrolling/wrecking ball guitars and banging bass book of Pray and played the title track prophesizing the triumph of science over the hypocritical elements of religion. Survival Reaction, seeing red as the instinct to survive kicks in, at all costs.

They play a Peter Steele tribute Carnivore style and possibly one of the reasons Playgirl called. When one is six-foot-seven, size matters. They end with the weak, aging mind Transmogrified by dementia and loss of faculties.

Crucifixation, Forces of Nature, feature images courtesy of Tom Wilson

Editor’s Note-On Saturday September 20th, for the 8th straight year Forces of Nature volunteered their time, working with event coordinator Jeanette Monaghan, performing at the Wright Pat Air Force Base Marathon. They played a non-stop, six-hour (7am-1pm, with pre-dawn setup/5:30 am sound-check) gig positioned near the last leg of the course. They banged and thrashed as over 15,000 runners went by, many raised the horns in respect and gratitude for the extra effort, adrenaline and energy to the finish line of the 26 mile trek. When the set-list started getting low their ‘late morning’ creativity-caffeine kicked in with adlibs and jams coming up with new material.  Tom Wilson along with event supporter Kelli Wilson also made the early morning base trip making sure the heavy metal patriotism was documented. After playing all morning and a brief break Mr. Godsey spent the evening at Oddbody’s working security for the Nonpoint show.       

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Nutt House Hosts Jason Derulo Tour

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emye4i5s91n1pduy9rgnf2fj50r0d52x Jason’s latest single “Talk Dirty” (ft. 2 Chainz) is his most successful track to date having sold over 5 million singles throughout the world, and has garnered over 200 million views on YouTube and climbing.

Success hasn’t always come easy for the 24-year-old pop singer. After a string of career defining hit singles including “Whatcha Say,” “In My Head,” “Ridin’ Solo,” “Don’t Wanna Go Home” and “It Girl,” Derulo suffered a catastrophic neck injury, which forced him to rehabilitate himself both mentally and physically. He released his comeback record “The Other Side” from his newly announced Tattoos LP in May 2013, which became radio’s #1 most added record of the year and set Derulo on a new and re-energized path.

 

Light The Night Walk

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ka372xcgr4z83292ec0ildx5zn9776pgEnjoy an evening of fun and inspiration. Participants walk leisurely along a two mile route in their communities. Dedication banners and remembrance ceremonies provide an opportunity to display a name or message, honoring or commemorating a family member or friend with cancer. There will be food, refreshments, and entertainment, beginning at 5:30 p.m. The Walk Program begins at 7:00 p.m., and the Walk will begin promptly afterwards. Light The Night is for the whole family!

 

Toast The Century Bar Tuesday As Best 60 Bourbon Bars Honoroed

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Back in June The Bourbon Review published their list ofAmerica’s 60 Top Bourbon Bars,  in the magazine’s sixth anniversary issue. Dayton’s only bourbon bar made the list again and here’s what they had to say:

Centurybestbourbonbars Bar, Dayton, OH: In what could be the most underrated Bourbon bar in the country, the Century Bar takes you back to 1862 with its 150-year-old back bar. The home of the former Kette & Sons Rye Whiskey Distillery, Century Bar packs 87 Bourbons and regularly holds blind tastings. It’s the sort of place every Bourbon drinker should visit at least once in his or her life.

“The criteria for the list was simple,” Justin Thompson of The Bourbon Review said in a press release. “The bar needed to prominently display bourbon, educate patrons about bourbon and provide a superior selection. The winning bars also have a reputation for creating both unique and traditional bourbon cocktails.”

To celebrate the list, The Bourbon Review has again partnered with Four Roses Bourbon for a nationwide toast to each of the 60 bars and restaurants. The toast is scheduled to take place Tuesday, Sept. 30th at 7pm when bourbon lovers are encouraged to  to raise a glass and make a toast via social media to honor their favorite bar! We encourage you to engage in the toasting by uploading your pictures and tagging The Century Bar, The Bourbon Review, and Four Roses Bourbon. The toast can be made via facebook, twitter or instagram and please use #60toast.

If you’ve never had the pleasure of attending one of The Century Bar’s blind bourbon tasting, you’re in luck.  After taking the summer off, 8947788525_fa493296cb_o1-748x416they’ve just announced the return of the tasting.  Tickets will go on sale Monday for the Oct 18th 3:30pm tasting.  The tasting will be $60.00 which includes six bourbons, and lunch catered by Smokin BBQ.  Not only will you get to try a variety of bourbons, the knowledge shared by bartenders Joe, Tim, Nick and Jarod at these events is mind boggling.  You’ll learn about the history of this brown liquor, the science behind the flavors, the family feuds and politics of the business and trends impacting the supply of your favorite bourbons.

If you want to attend, buy your tickets quickly, these tastings always sell out!  And tell them MostMetro.com sent you!

 

Bill’s Donut Shop Raffling A Dozen Donuts A Week For A Year

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1475990_580547238680315_983606051_nIn October Bill’s Donut Shop  will be celebrating 54 years in the donut business!

The shop was founded in 1960 by Bill and Faye Elam originated in downtown Dayton. Through the years, Bills Donut Shop has moved numerous times. In the 1970’s, there were multiple locations in the Dayton area including the cities of: Vandalia, Wilmington, Kettering, and Huber Heights. Over time, the Elam’s decided to focus their resources and talents in one store location.
In 1967, the shop was located at the intersection of Franklin and Main, close to where Panera Bread is today and the parking was one of the biggest problems in those days. Bill Elam admits that the added parking available in the current location was a big motivator in moving. In the earlier years, Bills was not open 24 hours a day. The advent of the third shift arose from the need of late night workers who would travel to work for NCR. “Back in those days, NCR was going strong and everybody south of town worked there. They all took Route 48 home-to Centerville, Lebanon or Springboro.” Faye says. Many Centerville residents worked for the company and for a while Bill would provide coffee and donuts to the workers at the back door using the honor system. Within a month, third shift was launched.  In 1979 Bill’s moved to its current location at 268 N. Main Street in Centerville.

bills-donuts-staff-2In 1995, Bill & Faye sold the family business to two of their children, Lisa & Jim Elam. They have made sure that the friendly atmosphere and hospitality that has defined the shop since its beginning remains a mainstay today. When asked why the shop has been such a success, Lisa said, “We know many of our customers by name, we’re very family oriented.”

In April of 2013 USA today featured Bill’s Donuts in their list of “10 great places to get doughnuts.”

In honor of their anniversary, Bill’s Donuts will be selling raffle tickets with 100% of the proceeds to benefit The Special Wish Foundation. There will be many prizes awarded, shirts, hoodies, mugs, gift baskets, etc. The grand prize will be one dozen donuts a week for a year.

Tickets go on sale the first of October and they will sell them throughout the month. The cost will be $1.00 each or six for $5.00. Stop by, pick ups some donuts and and help support this very worthwhile organization.

SKELETON TWINS and ALIVE INSIDE Open at THE NEON!

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98f6a31d29a786e520a9fb5198413b7eHello Everyone,

We’re moving forward this weekend with 2 new films! THE SKELETON TWINS has been winning high praise for Kristen Wiig and Bill Hader, and ALIVE INSIDE is a moving documentary that will uplift audiences and perhaps start a local movement.

Synopsis for THE SKELETON TWINS: “When estranged twins Maggie (Kristen Wiig) and Milo (Bill Hader) feel they’re at the end of their ropes, an unexpected reunion forces them to confront why their lives went so wrong. As the twins reconnect, they realize the key to fixing their lives may just lie in repairing their relationship.” (taken from Roadside Attractions) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

Synopsis for ALIVE INSIDE: “Alive Inside is a joyous cinematic exploration of music’s capacity to reawaken our souls and uncover the deepest parts of our humanity. Filmmaker Michael Rossato-Bennett chronicles the astonishing experiences of individuals around the country who have been revitalized through the simple experience of listening to music. His camera reveals the uniquely human connection we find in music and how its healing power can triumph where prescription medication falls short. This stirring documentary follows social worker Dan Cohen, founder of the nonprofit organization Music & Memory, as he fights against a broken healthcare system to demonstrate music’s ability to combat memory loss and restore a deep sense of self to those suffering from it…An uplifting cinematic exploration of music and the mind, Alive Inside’s inspirational and emotional story left audiences humming, clapping and cheering at the 2014 Sundance Film Festival, where it won the Audience Award.” (taken from Bond/360) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

“On Wednesday, October 8 at 7:30, there will be a one-time screening of AMERICAN WINTER immediately followed by a moderated discussion with the producer Harry Gantz. This screening is sponsored by the City of Dayton, Ohio CDC Association, and CareSource. ‘For countless middle-class families who have experienced job loss or an unexpected financial setback, the American Dream has become an American nightmare. Working families, seemingly on a path toward economic security, have discovered how quickly they can slip from the middle class into poverty. The film presents an intimate snapshot of the state of the nation’s economy as it is playing out in the lives of many American families.’ (From American Winter notes) A must see for those working with those in poverty and those involved in the formation of policy that impacts the community’s safety net services! Admission is $5 and open to the public. Tickets can be purchased by visiting THE NEON’s box office, going to www.thinktank-inc.org or by contacting [email protected].” (taken from press notes)

We received wonderful news late last week. THE WAY HE LOOKS, the opening night film of this year’s Dayton LGBT Film Festival, was selected by Brazil to represent their country in this year’s Oscar race. We’re so delighted that this little gem is getting such great recognition around the world! Our festival’s official website is now live, and festival passes (only 2 left) and single tickets are starting to move. Click this LINK to visit the site and read all about the films. If you get a ticket to Opening Night (only $8), you get to see the film (sponsored by Square One Salon & Spa) and attend the Opening Night Party at Salar (sponsored by Lisa Hanauer & Sue Spiegel) – where there will be complimentary wine and delicious appetizers. It’s really the best deal in town!

Thanks for your continued support!

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, Sept. 26 – Thursday, Oct. 2:

THE SKELETON TWINS (R) 1 Hr 33 Min
Friday & Saturday: 12:30, 2:45, 5:00, 7:20, 9:40
Sunday: 12:30, 2:45, 5:00, 7:20
Monday: 3:15, 5:30, 7:45
Tuesday: 5:30, 7:45
Wednesday & Thursday: 3:15, 5:30, 7:45

ALIVE INSIDE (NR) 1 Hr 18 Min
Friday & Saturday: 1:00, 3:00, 5:15, 7:30, 9:30
Sunday: 1:00, 3:00, 5:15, 7:30
Monday: 3:00, 5:15, 7:30
Tuesday: 3:00, 7:30
Wednesday & Thursday: 3:00, 5:15, 7:30

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
Oct. 3 – LOVE IS STRANGE
Oct. 10-12 – DAYTON LGBT FILM FEST
Oct. 17 – MY OLD LADY
Oct. 24 – PRIDE
Nov. 7 – BIRDMAN
Nov. 14 – WHIPLASH
Nov. 28 – THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING

Introducing NEW Food Adventures Crew & Fried Chicken at Lily’s Bistro ($25 Gift Card)

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Food Adventures Just Got More Adventurous !

Food Adventures just got a whole lot more adventurous….. and you can benefit by winning a $25 gift certificate to Lily’s Bistro in the Oregon district.

*** FOOD ADVENTURES WITH BIG RAGU and THE CREW ***

Blazing the trails in the foodie forums since 2008, Food Adventures has developed a large following…

Today, we add some big players to the mix.  They include Chefs, Foodie Fanatics, royalty and an appetite for Dayton that has never been bigger.  Although we have a couple of new faces, FOOD ADVENTURES with BIG RAGU and THE CREW, is still the same FOOD ADVENTURES you have come to love.  We will continue to have the MUST EATS, killer food photos that make your mouth water, and multiple visits to a place before we write an article.  Will continue to give you “THE SKINNY” on our favorites.  Follow our relentless pursuit of the best eats in the Miami Valley!

Together, your humble Food Adventurers will seek out locally owned restaurants, unique places off the beaten path, and even give our slant on some familiar favorites. Whenever we visit a place, we call it a “Food Adventure.”  You can expect pictures of each Food Adventure we embark on. You can expect us hugging waiters, visiting mom & pop establishments, posting nostalgic blogs, tongue-in-cheek comments and emotionally eating our way through life.   We don’t take ourselves seriously, enjoying the adventure all the way.  “We are not food critics, we just love to eat!”  Food Adventures won’t limit ourselves, we try it all – NO RULES !  We will leave no plate unturned.

You know the Big Ragu already ...

You already know The Big Ragu

We will continue to set the trends, host Food Adventure dinner events, and give our unique spin on Dayton’s best “Mom and Pop” places in the Miami Valley.  Food Adventures with Big Ragu and the Crew will continue to attend and support numerous local food and charity events.   We eat it all, and the photos are ours. No stock pics here.  We aren’t a share and click site.  We are Dayton Originals, so all of our stuff is original content. Often imitated, never duplicated, accept no substitutions.

You can find us here:

Facebook Page: Facebook.com/foodadv

Website: DaytonFoodies.com 

Twitter: @food_adv

Instagram: Instagram.com/Dayton_Foodies

 

Our recent “Meeting of the Mouths” happened last Sunday at Lily’s Bistro on Chicken Dinner night.  We will get into the Must Eats from that night shortly, but first…,

Ladies and gentlemen, it is time to MEET THE NEW CREW !

 

Chef House - expert foodie !LEEANNE HOUSE aka “CHEF HOUSE”:

Chef House or “The Sriracha Mamma” is all about the heat.  Lover of all things spicy she is constantly in the kitchen coming up with fun new ways to whip up veggies and add a little spice.  She is a Dayton native, with lifelong experience in the restaurant industry, working with some of the best chefs in the Miami Valley.  She loves to keep it local especially in the summer when beautiful produce is plentiful. She is a true foodie who knows we have a lot to offer in Ohio!

Chef House’s Top 5 Favorite Local Places for a Food Adventure :

(in no particular order)

1) Meadowlark (they do veggies right!)

2) Rue Dumaine (it never disappoints)

3) Fresco (best chef hands down)

4) Oregon Express (favorite pizza since I was a kiddo)

5) My kitchen ! …  duh!!!!

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JACLYN SCANLAN aka “HUNGRY JAX”:

Jackie relocated to the Dayton are in 2006. This Italian from Upstate NY found herself in a very different culinary atmosphere than what she was used to back home in Utica, NY.  However, different proved to be good a she fell in love with not only this “gem” of a city, but also the food and foodies within it! Cooking is a passion of Jackie’s.  She loves to use her husband, John, and two daughters, Coraline and Ashlyn, as her lab rats to test recipes out.  Some of her recipes have even been published in National Food Magazines!  But as much as she loves to cook, she also loves to take a night off from her kitchen and enjoy eating out and letting someone else do all the work (and the clean up)!  Other foodie interests include years of volunteering at the Dorothy Lane Market School of Cooking and being an Alton Brown fan since way back when he wore bowling shirts.  Jackie is excited to be part of the Food Adventures team and is looking forward to experiencing some new eats!

Jackie’s Top 5 Favorite Local Places for a Food Adventure:

1) Lock 27

2) The Cakery

3) Sweeney’s Seafood

4) Dorothy Lane Market

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 And our final Food Adventurer…
The King - all smilesBLAKE KING aka “THE KING”

After hopping the globe with the Air Force, The King recently touched down in Dayton with his wife and daughters. Flying recon for great local food, the Big Ragu has set the course for his newest wingman, and he is logging some serious mileage. The King is a dessert FREAK! There is no shake too shaky, pie too flakey, nor cake to…cakey for this lunatic. He wants to find the best dessert in Dayton. Please help him. He needs it, a lot.

The King’s Top 5 Favorite Local Places for a Food Adventure:

1) Taco Loco

2) Jet Freeze

3) Bill’s Donut Shop

4) Hasty Tasty Pancake House

5) Submarine House

 

 

Now to the food of the day .. not a typical article for us, this is just about one dinner …. The Sunday Chicken Dinner at Lily’s Bistro

Get your hens ready….

HERE’S THE SKINNY: 

— The dinners go from 5pm – 9pm on Sundays only

— The menu is pretty much fried chicken, with the sides, appetizers, and desserts changing from week to week.

— The prices are $9 for a 2 piece dinner, $16 for a 1/2 chicken dinner, and $28 for a whole chicken

— Sides are $3,  good prices, no clucking around

Now we ruffle our feathers and give you our patented.. Must Eats!

 

Buttered Johnnycake..

Johnny Cakes at Lily’s Bistro. Click to Enlarge the Goodness

MUST EATS:

— JOHNNY CAKES:  It might have been chicken night, but the appetizers and sides stole the show !  We couldn’t stop talking about the Johnny cakes. Pancakes, as an appetizer? This was right up our alley. The King wished he could have bottled the scent to keep by his pillow at night. Made with jalepeno, for just enough contrasting kick to the sweet buttery mapleness.   These cakes were  slathered in butter and syrup and simply amazing.  Who would have thunk it?   Crispy, sweet and spicy made for a perfect combination, and Chef House’s favorite dish of the night.

— SMOKED SALMON DIP:  Another great appetizer of the night, served with bagel “nuggets.”  We started out polite, then found ourselves thumb wrestling for the last bits.  Addicting, and addiction is an ugly thing.

— HOMEMADE MASHED POTATOES: We are talking the real deal, mashed with decent sized chunks in them.  We wondered why conversation stopped, it was as if all the Food Adventurers discovered these at the same time and were very quietly stuffing their faces.

— COOLDADDY COCKTAIL:  This spicy cocktail is a must.  Who could pass up a drink that features Chef House’s Sriracha sauce? Tequila, handmade pepper syrup, strawberries, cilantro are also among the ingredients.

— BEIGNETS:  Pronounced “Ben-yays.”   Known in some circles as “pizza frite”, “zeppole” or fried dough, these puffs of dough are a perfect end to a rich dinner.  Ever so slightly covered with sifted powdered sugar, Big Ragu had white on his “man bib vest” in no time.

 

Smoked Salmon Dip with Bagel nuggets - a must eat

Smoked Salmon dip, made in house, with Bagel Bites

Honorable Mention:  The mac n cheese and hand breaded, fried okra deserve a nod!

Thank you for reading our special  Food Adventure with Big Ragu and the Crew!

We always visit a place multiple times before we write a story, so we are ready for a trip back to Lily’s.. want to join us?  COMMENT BELOW on the story for a chance to win!

**** CONTEST **** WIN a $25 Gift Certificate to LILY’S BISTRO WITH BIG RAGU AND THE CREW !!   Just comment on the story below for a chance to win.  One entry per person, please.  A winner will be chosen at random.  We will revisit this restaurant for an another Food Adventure and you are welcome to join us !
Follow Food Adventures by giving us a like on Facebook.
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‘Fences’ Review – Wright State University – The American Family in Conflict

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August Wilson’s tremendously visceral 1987 Tony and Pulitzer Prize-winning drama “Fences,” among the finest inclusions in his remarkable 10-play “Pittsburgh Cycle” chronicling the African-American experience in the 20th century, opens Wright State University’s 40th anniversary season with emotionally riveting resonance.

fences 2

Photo caption (l to r) Jasmin Easler, Law Dunford and Tyrell Reggins in Wright State University’s production of August Wilson’s Tony and Pulitzer Prize-winning drama “Fences” (Contributed photo)

Beginning in 1957 and spanning nearly eight years in the life of a middle class African-American family in Pittsburgh, “Fences,” splendidly and poignantly co-directed by W. Stuart McDowell and Sheila Ramsey, centers its thought-provoking account of race, regret, responsibility, faith, struggle, and sacrifice on Troy Maxson (Law Dunford), a dysfunctional, disillusioned former Negro League baseball hotshot. In the Maxsons backyard, where the engrossing action transpires, loudmouth Troy is king of his castle, a welcomed escape from his daily grind as a sanitation worker longing for a promotion. A habitual storyteller still harboring daddy issues from his scarred childhood, Troy tends to be unbearably over-the-top for the sake of attention, but his larger-than-life persona is nonetheless a huge factor to his appeal not only in the eyes of his loyal friend and fellow ex-convict Jim Bono (Brandon Kinley) but his devoted second wife Rose (Jasmin Easler). But it takes Troy’s son Cory (Tyrell Reggins) to make him realize the weight of his flawed existence when Cory asks to join his school’s football team, an idea that infuriates Troy due to the unfulfilled potential of his own athletic career lingering in the recesses of his mind.

 
The domineering Dunford, a fantastic Inspector Javert last season in “Les Misérables,” substantially storms into Wilson’s marvelously authentic world with colorful wit and blustery bravado. Commanding yet intuitive, Dunford is a force to be reckoned with because he brings volatile truth to Troy’s complex journey migrating from reasonable provider one minute to arrogant jerk the next. His dynamically intense moments opposite the sensitive Reggins specifically packs a punch. Still, as Wilson intended, the play doesn’t belong to Dunford by any means. Above all, in Act 2, the outstanding Easler, in a breakthrough performance rooted in a calm sensibility that astutely builds to searing proportions, passionately conveys Rose’s disgust and disappointment upon being told of Troy’s infidelity. Easler’s expert handling of Rose’s explosive monologue, a beautifully written passage detailing her encumbered upbringing and the desires she cast aside for the greater good, becomes a thrilling heartbreaker. The terrific chemistry she nurtured with Dunford from the outset makes the heated moment all the more palpable and profound.
This impressive production, dedicated in memory of the legendary Ruby Dee and co-sponsored by Wright State’s Bolinga Black Cultural Resources Center, also features firm portrayals by charismatic Korey Smith as slick loafer Lyons (Troy’s oldest son from a previous marriage), very endearing Christian Henderson as the mentally challenged Gabriel (Troy’s brother), Ocean Brown and E’Draya Caldwell as cutely inquisitive Raynell (Troy’s daughter), and the aforementioned, amiably easygoing Kinley.

 
McDowell and Ramsey’s exemplary, Broadway-caliber artistic team includes scenic designer Ryan Sess, lighting designer Sammy Jelinek, costumer Mary Beth McClaughlin, and sound designer Emily Hutton. The duo also supplies inviting music for scene changes ranging from soft jazz to soul-stirring gospel.

 
Wilson, who passed away in 2005, mastered language, tone and relationships. His insightful depiction of blacks attempting to thrive in an uncertain, unjust America will be felt for generations to come because his plays simply contain a universality that actually transcends race. Do not miss Wright State’s electrifying tribute to his legacy.FENCE

 

“Fences” continues through Sept. 28 in the Festival Playhouse of the Creative Arts Center at Wright State University, 3640 Col. Glenn Hwy., Fairborn. Performances are Thursday at 7 p.m., Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday and 2 and 8 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. Act One: 90 minutes; Act Two: 60 minutes. Tickets are $22 for adults and $20 seniors and students. For tickets or more information, call the WSU box office at (937) 775-2500. Patrons are advised the production contains adult language and situations.

Dayton Inspires Ghostlight Coffee

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GhostlightCoffee and MostMetro are  excited to team up with @DaytonInspires & @DaytonGram this fall with an Instagram contest featuring our incredible city! We will announce a new theme every Thursday, so snap away, taking as many gorgeous shots as you can, tag them #DaytonInspires and POOF – you are entered in that week’s contest!

The top two pics for each theme will be featured on a new Dayton Inspires poster and will be showcased at “The Study” at Ghostlight during November’s DaytonGram photo show. The photographer will also receive $25 in Ghostlight Coffee gift certificates.

Follow @GhostlightCoffee @DaytonInspires & @DaytonGram then watch your feed for detail

See The Latest Inspiration

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][mgl_instagram_tag tag=”daytoninspires” number=4][/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]A few ground rules…

Be the awesome person you are. Thanks for sharing your experience and love for our great city! If your photo is selected in the weekly contest, we know you’ll want to share this news, so please post on your personal Instagram account, and Twitter, to let your followers know of this special honor. Please only enter photos that YOU take, as the winning photographer will be promoted as their Instagram user name (names and other personal information will not be announced without written permission from the account holder).

 

Keep it Classy…Remember, this is all about showcasing Dayton, its people, community, and its positivity. Exercise courtesy and respect. Please refrain from using profanity and posting photos that include nudity.
Why are we doing this? We will be sharing your photo entries across social media networks, so that we can showcase Dayton to people who are looking for us on MostMetro.com, Facebook, Twitter and Tumblr & Instagram. Dayton Inspires is about US…we are a great city, let’s show of a little bit…and have a lot of fun!

Timeline:
Thursdays: The new theme will be revealed. The theme for this first week is FESTIVALS. Our city has an amazing array of festivals including Oktoberfest this weekend. Perhaps you are taking the kids down to Aullwood Farm’s Apple Fest, surely you can get some great shots there!

We want to see your pictures from any Dayton area festival that you are attending. Just tag the pic #daytoninspires and you are entered!

No, the pics don’t have to be just Oktoberfest…you can repost pictures from previous festivals even. Have a great shot from Greek Fest? Post it. Found a terrific pic you took at AleFest? Post it. Celtic Fest? Air Show? Look through your albums for the really great pictures of friends & family having a good time in Dayton.

Fridays: Start posting pictures tagged with #DaytonInspires to be entered in that week’s contest.
Mondays: The top two entries from the previous week of entries will be announced.

November 7, First Friday Exhibition & Launch Party. 6-9pm.
The top two photos from each theme will be selected for exhibition at Ghostlight Coffee for the month of November. The photos will also be included on a special edition Dayton Inspires poster. Winning photographers will receive a copy of the Dayton Inspires poster, $25 in Ghostlight Coffee gift certificates and the photo print from the exhibition after December 4, 2014.

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A Pretzel Party That Thinks It’s A Bike Race

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28iz5oi5qlgq3sof80ooek595gfr43aaThe ride is held in conjunction with the Germantown Pretzel Festival and is sponsored by the Germantown Lions. All proceeds go to local food pantries and participating civic organizations.

The first annual tour will kick off at 8:30 AM, Saturday, September 27, 2014. This ride is an all-ages, family-friendly event. Want to ride a tandem? Come-along? Fixie? Recumbent? Unicycle? Pedicab? Everyone is welcome!

A ride across the wooden planks of the historic Germantown covered bridge is a feature enjoyed on all routes.

Banned Book Readers Jailed in Dayton

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”49924″ border_color=”grey” img_link_target=”_self” img_size=”full”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]The last week of September, libraries, booksellers, publishers, writers and readers celebrate free access to ideas and information with Banned Books Week. The Dayton Metro Library joins in the celebration, September 22-25.  Several Dayton Metro Libraries will feature book displays and have activities to commemorate the First Amendment.

The East Branch Library’s “Jail Cell” has become a Banned Books Week tradition.  This is the 8th year participants will step inside a symbolic jail cell inside the Library, located at 2008 Wyoming Street, and read from banned or challenged books. Hear rebels read these banned books aloud by watching the live stream online during regular Library hours.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]“It’s a very powerful talking point with patrons and visitors to the Library, and it’s not just about Banned Books Week,” said Eric Wirick, Reference Assistant at the East Branch Library. “Most people are surprised that the Library will stand up for their rights, and they usually leave feeling very proud of their Library.”

Banned Books Week began in 1982 when the Supreme Court ruled that students’ First Amendment Rights were denied when Slaughterhouse-Five, by Kurt Vonnegut, and eight other titles were removed from junior and senior high school libraries.  Since then, books of all sorts have been challenged in schools and libraries across the country for reasons as varied as “profanity” (Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson), “racially offensive” (Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain), “witchcraft” (the Harry Potter series by JK Rowling), and “grammatically incorrect” (ttyl by Lauren Myracle). Other banned books can be found online.

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