Dayton937

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

Archives for February 2015

There’s A New Thursday Night Dinner Spot – $40 Gift Certificate Giveaway

By

Make plans to head to Leo Bistro Thursday night for dinner.  As part of Dayton Art Institute’s new hours Leo Bistro is now open from 4-8pm every Thursday night.  With a new menu  featuring Tuscan Flatbread Pizzette, cabbage rolls, salads, sandwiches and more. Thursday evenings will also feature half-price bottles of wine and specialty Filet Burgers.  Leo Bistro is powered by Elite Catering and features an innovative menu that demonstrates what happens when food meets art!

Leo Bistro also serves lunch, Tuesday – Sunday, with a menu that includes soups, salads, sandwiches and entrees, as well as desserts. You will find daily specials, a children’s menu, “Quick Takes” items for museum guests, and a new wine/bar/appetizer list.

10304770_588526781261375_290134114862927738_n

Beer-battered Atlantic Cod with Parmesan Garlic Fries

You can make reservations by calling 937-512-0146 or email them at [email protected]

Here’s a peek at some of the new menu offerings:

 

Appetizers
Bruschetta Board –Red and Yellow Tomato Bruschetta mix,
complimented by an Olive Tapenade and a White Bean Relish withMascarpone Cheese, Honey Goat Cheese, and a
Sun Dried Tomato Cheese Spread served with Olive Oil Toasted Crostinis  8.99
Stuffed Mushrooms (3) – Italian Turkey Sausage,Spinach, Roasted Tomatoes, and a blend of spices 5.99
Mac & Cheese Croquettes – Breaded Macaroni and Cheese Rounds, fried and served with a
Spicy Ketchup dipping sauce (3) – 5.99 or (5) – 7.99

Leo Bistro Entrees:

Tuscan Flatbread Pizzette –An 8” flatbread topped with a rich Spinach Dip, Roasted Tomatoes,
leo-bistro-webFresh Mozzarella and Red Onions 7.29 ~add grilled chicken for 2.00 more
Fish & Chips– Beer Battered Atlantic Cod paired with our Parmesan Garlic Fries and
served with Malt Vinegar and Tartar Sauce 9.99
Cabbage Rolls –Fresh Boiled Cabbage Leaves stuffed with Ground Sirloin, Wild Rice, Onions and
Peppers topped with a Light Tomato Sauce and served with a side salad 9.29
DMM Giveaway
We’ve got a $40 gift certificate to Leo Bistro for one of our loyal DMM readers.  For your chance to win, fill out the form below, like and share this article on your facebook or twitter page and use the hashtag #DMMFreebie!  We’ll announce the winner Friday, Feb 13th.
 Congrats to our winner Mike Teague!!

The Most Romantic Date Day Dayton Can Offer

By

RomanceIf you’re currently in a relationship, it’s hard to ignore that Valentine’s Day is on a Saturday this year, even if you’re personally not a huge fan of the over-commercialization of ‘love’ that comes with it.

 

Start off with coffee (or a chai tea latte if you’ve never quite understood the appeal of drinking something that tastes like burnt toast) at Ghostlight, the coziest neighborhood cafe you’ve ever seen. The walls feature rotating art exhibits from local artists and photographers, and owner Shane Anderson is a huge proponent of living local in Dayton. The spot is so popular on weekends that it can be hard to find a seat, but you can usually squeeze in by the bay windows if the tables are all taken, and the couches in the study are extremely comfy.

 

Don’t fall asleep though, you’ve got a full day ahead. Head to Lily’s Bistro in the Oregon District for brunch, where you’ll enjoy fantastic omelettes and beignets, a New Orleans classic that’s hard to find anywhere else in Dayton. Brunch wouldn’t be complete without mimosas, and owner Emily Mendenhall has got your back.

 

Hold your partners’ hand — gay or straight, you won’t get judgment here, in one of the most gay-friendly small cities in the country — as you wander through the Oregon District shops. Maybe buy each other a book at Bonnett’s Book Store, or a record at Omega Music. Be sure to say hi to Butters, the resident goat at Eclectic Essential and Cora, the friendly dog at Clash.

ddn111207archPeople3

Walk down Clay Street to the Urban Krag, a former church converted into a rock climbing gym. The small climbing community in Dayton includes the owner and brewer at Toxic Brew Co., and you’ll find the group very welcoming if you become a regular climber. If you’re both novices, sign up for a belay class and they’ll get you started with renting shoes and a harness and learning the basics of climbing safety. As the light streams through the stained glass windows onto the colorful climbing holds, you and your partner are sure to reach new levels of trust as you try out the many routes and face any fears you may have. And if you’re not comfortable with heights, the gym includes a bouldering section with several beginner routes.

 

You can clean up in the bathrooms if needed before heading to your next destination: The Neon Movies. Catch an afternoon matinee showing of an independent film that’s sure to provoke lively conversation at dinner. You can also enjoy a beer or glass of wine during the show, and perhaps pick up an old movie poster for $5.

 

My favorite dinner spot is Wheat Penny, and not just because it’s gay owned and operated. The gourmet pizza restaurant embraces vegetables and treats them with the utmost respect. You’ll notice a cauliflower T-bone on the menu, and I’ll let you visit the restaurant to learn what that entails. The pizza is the main attraction here, along with the infamous eggplant fries that made a huge splash when the restaurant first opened. The house-made sodas are also not to be missed, whether in virgin form or as part of a house cocktail.

hqdefault

After dinner, catch a comedy show at Wiley’s, tucked away in the northernmost spot in the Oregon District. The club recently came under new ownership, and they’ve been working to spruce it up and add variety to the drinks and food menu.

 

Finally, to close out your day, head to Club Masque for the best DJ and dancing in town. The $7 cover might sound steep, but the drag show downstairs is not to be missed, and the upstairs dance floor with fog machines and a laser show will bring you and your partner close as you bump and grind in time with the beat.

 

Curse of Cassandra

By

10309423_800712799962318_7432689407839146091_n

Left to right: Jacob Richter, Nicole Richter and Ryan Wolfe

Walking into the room we pass through a chainmail curtain into a space steady pumping with a rhythm like blood flow. The lights are blooming bursts of colors, flashes that feel like explosions of excitement. These effects catch pace, divert from, and charge against. This could have a somewhat dizzying effect if it weren’t for the fact you’re instantly swallowed up, hypnotized, lost in the music. A smooth female voice goes from whisper to pure melody. She sings against a backdrop of pounding beats and haunting synth work. The effect is alluring, disarming and entrancing. This music is often too enticing, to rhythmic, not to dance, but still manages to lose no edge from its darker undertones. It’s like dancing with the devil, you can see and feel the dark dangerous edge, but you simply can’t resist.

This band is Curse of Cassandra and believe it or not they’re from Dayton Ohio. This incredible show, and fantastic performance was in fact a release show for their new album Night. Being a local born Dayton girl myself it wasn’t too hard to hunt down this band.

Curse of Cassandra formed in May of 2013 when Jacob Richter (synths/vocals) began writing songs and discovered Ryan Wolfe (percussion/effects) through the internet. Originally playing bass on synths, Nicole Richter stepped into the role of lead vocals in 2014 to form the band that exists now.

I recently got an opportunity to speak with the lead singer Nicole Ricter. I was excited to find out exactly what inspired and influenced their music; “The music and lyrics are inspired by vampires, cyberspace, the occult and otherworldly encounters intertwined with concepts of the night and the erotic connections that may ensue.” Ricter explained to me.

With a band of such wide influences one can wonder how they developed their specific sound. “Curse of Cassandra’s sound began with dance beats and haunting melodies, and has since become bound up with the seductive undertones of steampunk and gothic aesthetics.” Ricter said.

My mind drifts back to the incredible performance I’d seen that night. I ask about what they aim for fans to experience when attending a Curse of Cassandra show. “Definitely dancing and a sense of beholding the night as a temporary time of play, eroticism and enjoyment.” Ricter said.10313974_789011351132463_5433109261430486416_n

Night, this is the one word title of the new album. Night looms overhead, like a black sky sprinkled with stars, like the dark in which people feel unrestrained and anonymous enough to embrace their own secrete desires. This album has been made with professional care, skill and the dedication of a band who gives it their all. “The producer of our album Jason Rubal (Dresden Dolls, Amanda Palmer) flew to Dayton to spend time getting to know each of us on a personal level, listen to music and consume cinema to better understand who we are in order to create the best possible album that is an authentic representation of us. He so did smoothly and with effervescence.” Ricter explained to me about recording the album. “It differed from previous experiences in that we are an electronic band that seeks to emulate live what DJs and EDM artists do. Jason helped us create live percussion using real drum sounds that are unique to our album, and mixed in the synths and vocals with a sense of space and depth.”

Night is a beautifully constructed album that showcases very well the band from which it comes. In her own words Ricter describes the album as; “Sexy. Playful. And of course, dark and sensual.” Night is undeniably an album that showcases Curse of Cassandra at their best.

 

You can catch Curse of Cassandra for yourself at their upcoming shows:

Blackheart’s Ball w/Curse of Cassandra, Hematosis and Where the Nameless Dwell  Friday, February 13 at 9pm at  Therapy Cafe

Blind Bob’s, Friday, March 6th

Oregon Express, Friday March 13th

Register Now For Hoopla Four Miler

By

Bruning’s Wine Cellar to Host Wine Appreciation Series

By

wine-tasting-classesLearn wine from an expert and get more out of each sip.  Do you want to learn to talk intelligently about wine, or start your own collection? Are you a serious wine lover looking to deepen your knowledge? Either way,  this five week series presented by Micheal Freeman of Vintner Select will cover wine tasting techniques, explore characteristics of different wine regions around the world and more.  

The classes kick off on Monday, Feb 23rd from 6-8pm at Bruning’s in Beavercreek and continue each Monday through March 23rd.  Cost for all five week course is $100 and includes wine tasting, cheese and crackers, formal instruction and all class printed materials.  The last class of the series will be a wine and food pairing.

Space is limited and you can call 937.426.4950 to reserve your spot or just stop in at Brunings at 2476 Commons Blvd. .

 

 

 

 

Kettering CitySites Call For Public Art Proposals

By

citysites-logoArtists, artist teams, designers and architects are invited to submit proposals for a new public artwork to be located at the City of Kettering’s Southdale Park and Habitat Environmental Center. The artist will design, fabricate and install a permanent, site-specific piece using approximately 120 aluminum tiles created by Kettering City Schools students. The tiles were created during a special aluminum casting event with the foundry team of Bernie Carreno of Austin, TX.

The Habitat Environmental Center offers numerous programs and events throughout the year, as well as ecologically themed exhibitions to promote environmental stewardship. The center is located in Southdale Park, an eight-acre park that includes a nature trail, picnic tables and a nature-themed playground. The chosen artwork will reflect this site, include nature and sustainability themes and actively support interaction and play.

Interested artists must be based within a 60-mile radius of Dayton. The projects will be reviewed based on aesthetic quality, feasibility, durability in an outdoor setting, experience of artist/team members and adherence to project criteria. Q & A sessions will be held at the Habitat Environmental Center on February 18 and March 18 from 5 – 6pm. Shayna McConville, Cultural Arts Manager, and a representative from the Parks division will be on hand to discuss the project.

The total project budget for the artwork is $15,000 and includes all project costs. Artists may submit their proposals for consideration through March 27, 2015. Proposals must include a resume, artist statement, three references, images, a project narrative and a budget breakdown. Incomplete proposals will not be considered. For full submission requirements, please visit citysites.ketteringoh.org.

For additional information about the City of Kettering’s Cultural Arts programs, call (937) 296- 0294, e-mail [email protected] or visit rosewood.ketteringoh.org.

 

The Adventure Speaker Series For February

By

logo-speakThe Adventure Speaker Series is a partnership between Five Rivers MetroParks and Wright State University.  There will be thrilling stories of paddling, cycling, climbing, and backpacking that will be sure to inspire your next adventure. Here’s what’s on the schedule for February:

For more information, visit: www.theadventuresummit.com.
In summer 2014, Ian Kallay planned to cycle 3,207 miles across the United States, passing through nine states in 37 days – all while raising money and awareness to combat human trafficking. HeTASS_IanKallay conquered 35 mph headwinds, 110-degree heat and 10,000-foot mountains. Ian’s will was truly tested a mere 87 miles from the finish when an accident fractured his hand. Unable to ride, but with a strong desire to finish, Ian ran the rest of the way.

 

Axus: Across the United States, Cycling for a Cause
Ian Kallaym originally from Painesville, Ohio, Ian received his undergraduate degree in marketing from Wright State University’s Raj Soin College of Business. Currently, he is working toward a master’s degree in engineering innovation and entrepreneurship while working a research assistantship at Wright State’s Research Institute.

Hear Ian share his journey on Tues. Feb. 10, 7-8 PM at Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark.

 

TASS_TomHelbig40 Adventures In My 40th Year

For Tom Helbig, turning 40 was a cause for celebration to be remembered with milestone adventures. He challenged himself to complete 40 different adventures of 40 miles or more with 40 different people. His adventures included kayaking, tandem bicycling, stand-up paddleboarding, inline skating, rope swinging, river snorkeling and more. Share in Tom’s stories of inspiration, struggles and laughter along the way.  Tom Helbig is the owner of Tomfoolery Outdoors, an outdoor event production company that encourages people to live an active, outdoor lifestyle. Tom breaks out his inner 5-year-old to play in the outdoors daily and launched his 40×40 for 40 Challenge to encourage people to live active, laugh more and be inspired.

Tom Helbig  will be the guest speaker on  Thurs. Feb. 19, 7-8 PM at Wright State University Student Union

El Meson’s Valentine Meals Start Monday

By

Valentine_sWeekAtElMesonValentine’s Day can be a very hectic and stressful holiday. Between family, kids, work and all the other day to day issues modern couples face the holiday meant to showcase love between two people can become a backseat, last minute event. “This is why we decided to make Valentine’s Week! Couples and groups can choose any day during the week leading up to the 14th to celebrate the holiday at their leisure at El Meson.” Bill Castro, owner, said.

Valentine’s Day falls on Saturday, Feb 14th this year. Saturday, as in the busiest day for restaurants. Anyone who has ever tried to make reservations for Valentine’s Day knows that you need to make it early. “With the holiday falling on a Saturday this year, we have already received many calls and reservations for the 14th. It was pretty apparent to us that we needed to open it up to multiple days so that everyone who wanted to celebrate with us would have the chance.” Bill continued. “We’ll be featuring a three course prix fix menu every day during Valentine’s Week (Feb 9th – Feb 14th)

Diners will receive a choice of two entrees which will include salad, side dishes, & dessert to share” Castro said.

Special Lovers Menu for 2-

Asado-Meat Platter for 2 –  grilled beef fillets, chicken breasts & chorizo on a sizzling plate

Mariscada- Seafood Platter for 2 – grilled grouper, tuna, sea scallops, shrimp & calamari

Both featured menu entrees include two salads, two side dishes, & dessert to share

He went on to mention that dinner will be less expensive earlier in the week, Mon – Tues – $20 per person, Wed – Thurs – $25 per person and move up to Fri – Sat – $35 per person. “On Friday and Saturday we’ll also have a roaming Mariachi to make the dining experience even more memorable” Bill finished.

For diners interested in experiencing Valentine’s Week at El Meson, we encourage you to make your reservation early. You can make a reservation by calling them at (937) 859-8229.

‘The Fantasticks’ Review –Dayton Playhouse – Love Is In the Air

By

Lyricist/librettist Tom Jones and composer Harvey Schmidt’s tender, intimate 1960 musical “The Fantasticks,” loosely based on Edmond Rostand’s 1894 play “Les Romanesques,” receives a visually engaging, strikingly designed presentation at the Dayton Playhouse.

Matthew W. Smith spearheads his finest directorial achievement thus far by envisioning the material with nods to commedia dell’arte and vaudeville with particularly lovely sprinkles of whimsicality recalling Jones’ superb direction of the current off-Broadway production. Smith’s show-within-a-show concept is marvelously heightened by scenic designer Chris Newman’s treasure trove of collectibles. Books, lampshades, drums, candles, candelabras, curtains, trunks, and more accent the minimalist approach that has worked so well for this musical since its inception. After all, “The Fantasticks” can be told anytime, anyplace so it’s great to see such an imaginative focus soundly implemented and executed.

fantasticks

Kami Flanders as Luisa and Tyler Henry as Matt in Dayton Playhouse’s production of “The Fantasticks” (Contributed photo by Art Fabian)

Tyler Henry and Kami Flanders, in lead acting Playhouse debuts, are compatibly cute as Matt and Luisa, lovebirds separated by a wall unaware their scheming fathers have been their matchmakers for years. Henry, confident and mature, and Flanders, demure and capricious, are responsible for singing the majority of the vocally challenging score and do so admirably, particularly the gorgeous “Soon It’s Gonna Rain” and “They Were You.” The duo also brings ample dismay and potency to Matt and Luisa’s pivotal if drawn-out Act 2 separation that finds the couple searching for more after realizing every happy ending has a price.

Rob Willoughby (as Matt’s father Hucklebee) and Brian Sharp (as Luisa’s father Bellomy) create a warm, humorous partnership genuinely grounded in friendship and mutual parental interest, wonderfully displayed in their rendition of “Plant a Radish.” As wistful narrator El Gallo, Shawn Hooks, in excellent voice from the very first strains of the straightforwardly sublime “Try to Remember,” lessens the brooding, mysterious qualities of the role in favor of an amiable, conversational approach that is more magnetic and accessible. Charles Larkowski (Henry) and Saul Caplan (Mortimer) are a comical joy as a pair of veteran actors who help El Gallo in a fake kidnapping ultimately transpiring with Matt as a hero. Caplan is hilarious in his American Indian garb/makeup, and Larkowski, effortlessly natural and inviting in a funny, refined, attention-grabbing role that requires him to be slightly over-the-top, keeps the frivolity of their scenes at an entertaining high. The handsomely mirthful William Scarborough has great presence and smoothly fuel’s the production’s fancifulness as the Mute who at times represents the wall.
Smith’s terrific creative team includes costumer Janet G. Powell (Willoughby and Sharp’s colorful outfits are particularly appealing), lighting designer Anita Bachmann, sound designer Bob Kovach, choreographer Mike Embree (who actually releases “Much More” from its typical stiltedness), fight choreographers Natasha Randall and Craig Roberts, and musical director Ron Kindell whose fine four-piece orchestra features lilting piano accompaniment by Bryon Dobbs.

As Valentine’s Day beckons, “The Fantasticks” certainly satisfies as a romantic escape worth exploring.

“The Fantasticks” continues through Feb. 8 at the Dayton Playhouse, 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave., Dayton. Performances are Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. Act One: 60 minutes; Act Two: 45 minutes. Tickets are $18 for adults and $16 for seniors and students. For tickets or more information, call (937) 424-8477 or visit online at www.daytonplayhouse.com

Dayton, Meet Uber

By

UberUber has reached Dayton. Uber, a German word, means over, above or across.  In America we have used the word Uber to add emphasis to almost anything we are excited about. Dayton has lots to be excited about with the addition of Uber in the Miami Valley market.

Uber, the app and San Francisco company, was founded in 2009.  In its earliest days Uber was a smartphone app tool used to request black car ride service. The app became popular quickly because it allowed the user to track the cars location and estimated time of arrival.  Since 2009 the company has grown to service 200 cities in 53 countries around the world. 2012 was the mark of big growth when Uber expanded to allow any qualified driver with a suitable car to drive.

I began to drive for Uber in December of 2014. I had a few friends that were driving part time and making a little cash on the side. The process of applying to join the Uber fleet was tedious, but not difficult. The registration requires an Uber amount of paperwork and a background check. Uber is very cautious and vets drivers and their cars in a very systematic manner. Interior and exterior photos of my vehicle, a 2005 Honda Odyssey had to be submitted along with proof of insurance, vehicle registration; and a copy of my driver’s license had to be submitted online.

New Uber drivers are required to complete a short online training program to become familiar with the Uber app. Uber operates on two mobile apps. The Uber partner app is for drivers. This app allows drivers to log on when they are available and ready to drive. The app alerts drivers when a nearby rider has requested a ride. Drivers have 15 seconds to accept or reject the ride. The app only tells the driver where the pickup spot is. Normally it is within 5-15 minutes of your actual location. The app allows the rider to see the driver’s progress in real time and the driver alerts the rider upon arrival via the app.

For the driver it is a very easy process. Once the rider is in the car the destination address is entered. The app is complete with mapping and turn by turn directions. Once the ride is complete the driver acknowledges arrival to the destination in the app and payment is made immediately. Riders are required to have a credit card on file in the User app. No credit card information is shared between the rider and driver. The app calculates and makes the transaction. Drivers are paid weekly.

Are all riders drunk? No. Most of my riders are not intoxicated. My riders include college students who do not have a car on campus, people out for dinner and drinks, out of town visitors and the occasional late night reveler. More often I carry a small group of friends out for a night together. Uber is easier to request than a cab, normally cheaper and more dependable in the suburbs for a ride when needed.

Is it dangerous? No, not really. Riders are registered with Uber as well. Their identity is confirmed as they have a credit card on file with Uber to cover charges. Both the driver and rider know who to expect at pick up. The drivers photo and license plate number are sent to the rider so they know who to look for.

Recently I was dispatched to a home in Oakwood and my passengers were three teenaged girls. The app was registered in their parents name. The Uber app for riders allows the rider to share their trip with anyone in real time. Once they started their ride with a swipe on their iPhone, their parents were able to watch the ride in real time and see they were dropped off at the correct destination in short order.

Drivers are independent contractors and are responsible for their own gas and maintenance. Uber will also provide a phone for you for a modest $10.00 a month so your personal phone and data plan is unaffected.

In Dayton on a typical Saturday night I will drive 7-8 riders, a total of 150-180 miles and my income will be about $150.00. My expenses are about $15 in gas and 5 hours of time. Not a bad way to make a few dollars spending money.

If you have a car in good shape, clean inside and out, and are interested in driving for Uber, use this referral code (FA2RX) when you register online at Uber.com. As demand increases for this service, the demand for drivers also increases.

Dayton is still a young market for Uber and the ability to drive on your schedule makes this an appealing way to make some extra cash driving around town.

White Castle: Yes or No ? Comment to Win a Crave Case of Sliders !

By 40 Comments

Nothing like the smell of a White Castle. Same applies 5 hours later

The White Castle Hamburger in its Natural Habitat

Sliders.  People either love them or hate them.  Only Food Adventures would tackle such a volatile subject.  What is your opinon?  We need your vote by commenting below, and there is a prize at stake.  We ask the question:  White Castle….. YES or NO ?

One lucky winner will be chosen at random to win a bonus prize.  If you win and your vote was YES, you get a Crave Case of 30 White Castle hamburgers.  Eat them yourself or give them as a gift to your favorite foodie.

If you win and your vote was NO, we can negotiate another burger gift card (Voltzys or Hamburger Wagon, etc).

But this is your chance to be heard.

Do you crave their food or do you despise it?  Stand Up! Be Heard !

White Castle….. YES or NO ?

 

WHERE DO THE FOOD ADVENTURES STAND?

CHEF HOUSE: “My vote is NO.  I seriously don’t eat fast food.”

HUNGRY JAX: “My vote is YES.  They remind me of my mom’s ‘steak umms’ sandwiches, so for me it’s nostalgic.”

THE KING: “My vote is NO.  This vote is based on the after effects.”

No closed spot in Huber Heights

White Castle: Do you love ’em or hate ’em ?

THE BIG RAGU: “My vote is YES. The secret is, don’t eat more than 4 at a time, and you will crave them again.”

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— White Castle locations in the Dayton area are a dying breed.  Only 2 remain, one at 5201 Salem Bend in Trotwood, and one at 6901 State Route 123 in Franklin.  The next 2 closest locations are in Middletown and South Lebanon.  But the chain, still has a cult following.

— The first White Castle hamburger was served in 1921 in Wichita, Kansas.  However, since 1933 the company’s headquarters have been in Columbus, Ohio

— For all you romantic types, every year on Valentines Day, White Castle offers to reserve a candlelit table for two, complete with a server.

 

For those of you who have never had the pleasure of a White Castle burger, Hungry Jax and The Big Ragu scoured the menu for our “MUST EATS. ”

 

onion chips

Onion Chips: the Crispy Catalyst, for a Full Experience

MUST EATS:

— CHEESEBURGERS:  The tiny hamburger patty has 5 curious holes punched in the meat, like a #5 on a 6 sided dice.  It is steam-grilled with onions and topped with cheese and served with pickle on a bun.  Some people grab some ketchup and mustard packets to add later, others are purists and eat them “as is”

— HAMBURGERS: Same as above, but with no cheese.  This is the famous “slider.”  People have been known to throw down 10 or more of these bad boys.  Caution: It is nicknamed “slider”  for its gastro intestinal wrecking power of sliding in, and sliding out.

— ONION CHIPS:  Delicious and addicting.  But beware, these are the catalyst for stomach grumbling and mixed with sliders, can produce super powered “Dutch Oven” options at night.

— DOUBLE CHEESEBURGER: This sandwich is White Castle’s big hunk of burning love.  This is a double stacked cheeseburger and is surprisingly filling.  Two of these and you are good to go.

 

Now, it’s your turn.  We need you vote thumbs up or thumbs down to White Castle.  Yes or No to Slider utopia !

PLEASE COMMENT BELOW FOR A CHANCE TO WIN !

For more crazy and original foodie fun, check out FOOD ADVENTURES on FACEBOOK by clicking here !

Browse the gallery below for the myth and legend of White Castle Hamburgers.

[flagallery gid=135]

 

Grenades!?’s Debut Is Strong For A Group Stretching Their Legs For The First Time

By

Grenades!?: Interrobang

grenades-picAlbum Review: It feels like the phrase “stretching their legs for the first time” is a bit of an exaggeration. There’s been quite a history between lead-vocalist/keyboardist Daniel Madero and Mike Patak Jr. From Stone The Mayor Sheriffs, to Temper, Temper, Temperature (At The Drive-In cover band), now to Grenades!?. Having parted ways with recording member Daniel Cortes (second guitar/backing vocals), Tyler McKinley keeps the musical tradition strong playing in Roley Yuma as well as Dear Fawn (which also includes Madero, but on drums). Rounding out the quintet is Josh Moody on bass and Andrew Chenault on drums. With Grenades!? having such strong roots in Dayton, Ohio’s music scene, it’s no surprise that their debut, Interrobang is catchy and fun, if a bit safe.

It’s an exciting prospect when you hear of a group that has been playing for along time scrap all their live material only to record totally new songs for their first LP. That’s exactly what happened to Grenades!?. (I still think there’s a case to be made for “Balcony Bash,” though; maybe next time.) Passing the intro track, “I’m Aware Wolf” finds Grenades!? starting the show off with a show stopper. Madero moans and yelps as a heavy handed guitar-megalodon pounds and solos to the end. While reminiscent of acts such as Walkmen and Klaxons, Interrobang most reminded me of hearing the ever so catchy Arctic Monkeys’ Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not.
With songs like “Space Heater,” “Working Title,” and title-track closer, the album is danceable, sexy, floaty, and poppy. With titles like “Starship Bloopers” and “All The Good Teas Chai Young” you may think that Grenades!? is playing around; but in reality it’s that sense of humor that feeds into their live presence. Interrobang has the potential to make a strong live showing, but it’s the risk factor that may limit its listenability. I hope to see a follow up, because the addition of McKinley could lead to some interesting avenues being explored. While the risk factor is low, the rocking factor still totally holds up. Does Grenades!? have the ability to stand out from a burgeoning Dayton music scene? Only a follow up will tell so here’s hoping.

Self-Released [2015]
ratings3_5

Key Tracks: “I’m Aware Wolf” / “Starship Bloopers” / “Performance Anxiety”

Artists With Similar Fire: New Order / Walkmen / Klaxons

 

For more music reviews visit The Fire Note, a unique voice in the current music scene that will consistently offer a different perspective.

Blush Boudoir Celebrates 5th Anniversary With FIrst Friday Open House

By

BlushBoudoir_Studio(1)Blush Boudoir, the Dayton Region’s premiere boudoir and beauty photography studio, is celebrating its five year anniversary at its current location in Downtown Dayton with a special First Friday Open House on February 6th, 2015.  “We are so happy with the growth we’ve experienced since moving our studio to Downtown Dayton,” says Tracy Malott – owner and principal photographer. “We’ve had over seven hundred clients walk through our pink doors in that time, and with the help of an amazing team of the area’s top makeup artists, hairstylists and photographers we look forward to making many more women look and feel beautiful in the years ahead.”

Blush Boudoir began two years earlier in West Carrollton when Tracy opened a storefront studio as a place to meet clients of her then-successful wedding photography business.  As more brides requested “boudoir” shoots with albums that they could gift to their future spouses, Blush Boudoir was born.  And with the need for more natural light and a better location, Blush Boudoir moved to its current location at 120 N. St. Clair Street in Downtown Dayton in February 210730914_922880241057481_7571423788952456559_n010.  Soon, Tracy eventually stopped shooting weddings to focus all of her time and energy on boudoir photography.

In order to continue growing Blush Boudoir, Tracy and her boyfriend Billy Pote became business partners in late 2012.  The studio has since then grown from one photographer and one makeup artist to a team of four photographers, four makeup artists and three hairstylists.  And in 2014, Blush Boudoir opened the Blush Boudoir Lingerie Boutique featuring hand-made pieces by lingerie artist (and past client) Dianne Gallagher.  It is open by appointment as well as to the public on the first Friday of every month.

Blush Boudoir is also gaining national recognition.  In addition to attracting more and more clients to Dayton from cities like Columbus, Cincinnati and Indianapolis, the national association Professional Photographers of America brought their PhotoVision team to Dayton in 2014 to feature Blush Boudoir as part of their annual “Best of the Best” educational video series that spotlights the top photography studios in the country every year.  Also in 2014, Blush Boudoir was invited to be a member of the Association of International Boudoir Photographers.

10421965_952121538133351_1992052376582247236_n-1The Blush Boudoir First Friday Open House will be on Friday February 6th from 6 to 10 pm.  In addition to featuring their popular lingerie boutique, Blush Boudoir is proud to host local fashion boutique Bloom who will have several items from their Vandalia clothing boutique available for sale.  “We enjoyed joining Blush Boudoir for their First Friday Open House in December,” says Bloom owner Kristy Stephens, “and look forward to doing it again for their five-year anniversary celebration.  It is great when local businesses can work together and  cross-promote.”  Both Blush Boudoir and Bloom Fashion will also be giving away gift cards to lucky guests.

For more information and/or interview requests, please visit BlushBoudoir.com or email [email protected].

‘Fiddler on the Roof’ Review – Cedarville University – Prolonged Exodus

By

Fiddler on the Roof

Robert Rhodes as Tevye in Cedarville University’s production of “Fiddler on the Roof”

Cedarville University’s production of Joseph Stein, Jerry Bock and Sheldon Harnick’s classic 1964 musical “Fiddler on the Roof,” based on the stories of Sholom Aleichem, is deflated by awkward, inadequate musicality.

Barring technical difficulties, there’s no reason in the world why anybody’s staging of “Fiddler” should produce an Act 1 heading toward two hours. But this is exactly what’s happened at Cedarville due to weak music direction by conductor Carlos Elias who hasn’t mastered the timing within Bock and Harnick’s score, superbly accenting an endearing story of a poor Jewish family coping with change in their tiny Russian village of Anatevka in 1905.

In Elias’ hands, the waltzes are startlingly slow (“Sunrise, Sunset” is particularly painful) and the sprightly sentiments (“If I Were a Rich Man,” “To Life,” snippets of “Tevye’s Dream”) lack vigor. The only number that truly resonates in terms of musicianship is “Do You Love Me?,” an Act 2 gem containing an engaging, conversational essence (akin to “I Remember It Well” from “Gigi”) that constantly flows thereby avoiding any sense of derailment.

Thankfully, “Do You Love Me?” is also a signature moment because of the wonderful rapport and lyric-driven astuteness of Robert Rhodes and Anna Caroline Porter as Tevye and Golde. Throughout the tune, which finds Tevye and Golde tenderly reminiscing about their marriage, Rhodes and Porter beautifully connect with humor, depth and a mutual understanding that their love will survive no matter what the future holds. Excellent portrayals under the direction of Diane Conrad Merchant extend to the sharp, witty David Widder-Varhegyi as humble tailor Motel and a marvelously firm Madison Hart as the daring Chava who defies her family with dramatic results.

Choreographer Carrie Anthony’s commendable routines bursting with personality and colorful exchanges, Robert Clements’ first-rate scenic and lighting design, and Debbie Hamrick’s attractive period costumes are additional assets of this presentation still in search of its musical pulse.

“Fiddler on the Roof” continues through Feb. 8 in the DeVries Theatre of the Stevens Student Center at Cedarville University, 251 N. Main St., Cedarville. Performances are Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m., and Sunday at 3 p.m. Act One: 1 hour and 45 minutes; Act Two: 55 minutes. Tickets are $12-$15. For tickets or more information, call (937) 766-7787 or visit www.cedarville.edu

Amber Rose Announces Craft Beer Dinner

By

Make plans now to head out to Old North Dayton for a four course craft beer dinner, which kicks off a year long celebration of Amber Rose’s 25th anniversary.   Originally built in 1910 by Sigmund Ksiezopolski, it ran as a general store and deli named Sig’s up until the 1980′s.  The family ran the general store downstairs and resided upstairs as their family quarters.  The National Guard stayed with the family during the Great Flood of 1913.  In 1989 Elinor Sluzas acquired the building with the intention of opening a restaurant.  Before the scheduled grand opening there was a horrific fire and a portion of the building had to be rebuilt.  The restaurant officially opened for business in 1990.  Elinor may have retired but her recipes have stayed the same.

On Thursday, February 26th at 6:30pm Amber Rose will host a tasting for beer and foodie fans in their upstairs dining room.   Owner Joe Castellano shared the pairing menu with us:

hofbrau_original_face_2___43715_origFirst Course
Bratwurst & Braised Cabbage Bruschetta
Beer Pairing: Hofbrau Original

 

beer-_557016_sm_774f0999a1bff5b64b5e7b1234c46eSecond Course
Brown Sugar Chipolte Salmon with grilled asparagus with citrus glace
Beer Pairing: Warped Wing Ermal’s Belgian Style Cream Ale

 

images-1Third Course
Tomato & Cheese sausage stuffed pork loin with orzo pilaf
Beer Pairing: Erdinger Dunkel
deschutes_bbpFourth Course
Chocolate Raspberry Mousse
Beer Pairing: Deschutes Black Butte Porter

 

To reserve your seat for just $30 for call Amber Rose at 937.228-2511.  The restaurant is located at 1400 Valley Street, with plenty of free parking in their own well lighted parking lot.

From Stratocaster to Stratosphere – Noah Wotherspoon Takes Big Win At 2015 International Blues Challenge!

By

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]

Noah Wotherspoon band with Rob Thaxton on bass and Brian Aylor on drums

Noah Wotherspoon band with Rob Thaxton on bass and Brian Aylor on drums

Custom Gibson 335 Albert King Blues Guitar

Custom Gibson 335 Albert King Blues Guitar

The legendary Beale Street in Memphis, Tennessee was the scene of an international showdown. For four days in January, (20-24), 250 blues acts from around the world came to compete at the 31st. Annual International Blues Challenge. Daytonian Noah Wotherspoon took top prize, the coveted “Albert King Guitar Award” for best guitarist and placing 2nd. in the band category. To recap, best international blues guitarist, 2nd. best international blues band. That’s “international”, as in, “the world.” He confesses that late night “did that happen?” texts to his mother help to wrap his mind around the experience.

This trip to Beale Street was not the first. Representing the Dayton Blues Society, Noah and his 2 man crew of Rob Thaxton on bass and Brian Ayler on drums, were accepted into the challenge in 2012, 2013 & 2014. As in past years, Dayton and Cincinnati were well represented with area favorites such as Doug Hart. In three days, Performers passing each round of quarter and semi-finals end up on the Orpheum stage for the final showdown. Noah remarked on the ever-present spirit of Elvis inside the Orpheum, a venue where a teenaged Elvis Presely held a job as an usher. Just working on that stage is a prize that many artists dream of.

The take home prize for the “Albert King Guitar Award” included cash for travel reimbursements, billing on prominent blues fest venues, a “Category 5” Amp and the custom Gibson 335 Albert King guitar.

It’s a long way to Beale Street, just ask Dayton native Noah Wotherspoon. A child prodigy, Noah spent much of his teen years sharing the stage with every major blues great you can name. He also spent many years on Dayton stages such as Gillys Bar and Jazz club with his band “Noah and the Stratocasters.”

Noah Wotherspoon, 16 years old

Noah Wotherspoon, 16 years old

Many interviews are archived with a 14 year old Noah. At the time, most questions centered around what it was like to share the stage with legendary blues artists around the world, then come home to play venues that required him to be accompanied by a parent. Even now in his early 30’s, his youthful appearance and humble demeanor add to the shock value for those who are new to the Wotherspoon guitar wizardry. Noah recalled one of his favorite stories of being 16 years old with shoulder length blonde hair and commonly being mistaken for a cute girl. Being blessed with a sense of humor, he shared some of his favorite incidents with me. One such story involved a blues hero of his, Bobby “Blue” Bland. Before taking his turn on the stage, Noah was up front in the crowd, admiring Bland’s set. As any performer might react to a young attractive fan, he was singled out for a very special serenade of “Little Red Hot Mama” from the stage. The audience of blues fans familiar with Noah’s work felt they should inform Mr. Bland of his faux pas by collectively yelling “HE’S A DUDE!” Now, many years later, this is a “family” joke between Noah and one of his closest friends Rodd Bland, the son of Bobby who played drums for many years in the band. Bland and Wotherspoon’s bond deepened over the last couple of years when the two lost their fathers within a short time frame.

Tonight, (Tues. 2/3), you can hear Noah recount the experience of the International Blues Challenge, growing up on the stage, and more as he joins Gene Charles during “Blues Corner” on WSWO Oldies 97.3FM and streaming at . Tune in from 7pm-9pm Eastern.

On Thursday, (2/5), from 9am to noon, he will be talking about the Cincinnati Blues Society Winter Blues Fest on WNKU.org.

Keep tabs on Noah, his bands and his side projects, such as “Nowhere Bear” custom guitar straps,
here:

Here is a brief excerpt from an interview Tony Peters of WSWO Oldies 97.3 did with a 14 year old Noah: