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Archives for October 2015

Rock Hall of Fame Nominees Named

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rock-and-roll-hall-of-fame-and-museum-lightsCleveland’s Rock & Roll Hall of Fame has announced the nominees for induction in 2016. Eight of the 15 nominees are on the ballot for the first time (noted by *). To be eligible for consideration, an artist or band must have released its first single or album at least 25 years prior to nomination, meaning the potential members of the Class of 2016 must have issued a first recording by 1990.

About 800 industry professionals — including current hall of famers as well as historians, certain media members and others in the business — will vote on who makes the cut.

The new hall members — usually between six and eight off the ballot, along with one or two members in the non-performer and lifetime achievement award categories — will be announced in December.

The induction ceremony will be in New York City in April. This represents a change in the Foundation’s previous plans to rotate the ceremony between Cleveland, where the Class of 2015 was inducted, Los Angeles and New York.

 

And the nominees are:

  • Chicago* – Had a string of #1 albums and top 40 hits in the 70s and 80s.

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  • Cheap Trick* – The hard-rocking, power-pop pioneers want you to want them in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
  • Deep Purple – Heavy metal / modern rock pioneers.
  • The Cars – Late 70s through mid-80s radio staple with hits including You Might Think, Just What I Needed and Tonight She Comes.
  • Chaka Khan* – For her sake, hopefully she’ll fare better here than she did on this season’s Dancing With the Stars…eliminated first.
  • Chic – Disco ‘s dance-floor classics Le Freak and Good Times, Nile Rodgers and company influenced generations of pop and hip-hop artists – 10th nomination.041513-fashion-and-beauty-tv-kid-stars-then-now-janet-jackson-good-times
  • The J.B.s*  – The original name of James Brown’s ’70s band, which included members such as Bootsy Collins and Bobby Byrd.
  • Janet Jackson* – Penny from Good Times broke out of her brothers’ shadows and became one of the most successful female artists of all time.
  • Los Lobos* – Winners of multiple Grammys. Hit #1 with their 1987 cover of La Bamba.
  • Steve Miller* – He’s a joker. He’s a smoker. He’s a midnight toker. MI0003169644
  • N.W.A. – Nominees With Attitude “Straight Outta Compton.”
  • Nine Inch Nails – Possibly entering the Hall of Fame based in the city where the act was founded (Cleveland).
  • The Smiths – English rock band best know for fusion of 1960s rock and post-punk
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  • The Spinners – Classic R&B group formed in Detroit. Hits included Working My Way Back to You and Could it be I’m Falling in Love.
  • Yes – Owners of a lonely heart, largely responsible for bringing progressive rock to the mainstream.

Who would you vote in?

‘Pippin’ Review – Victoria Theatre Association – All the Right Moves

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Exhilarating acrobatics and fantastic choreography catapults the outstanding national tour of “Pippin” to marvelously magical heights at the Schuster Center as the launch of the Victoria Theatre Association’s 2015-2016 Premier Health Broadway Series.

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The cast of the national tour of “Pippin” (Photo by Terry Shapiro)

Based on its 2013 Tony Award-winning Broadway revival and originally staged and choreographed by the legendary Bob Fosse in 1972, “Pippin,” featuring a book by Roger O. Hirson and score by Stephen Schwartz, tells a humorous and fanciful tale of the titular son of Charlemagne. Following college graduation he boldly pursues a quest for absolute fulfillment. However, his complicated yet committed soul-searching gets the best of him as he battles war, the flesh, revolution, politics, and domestication. Even so, he’s faithfully guided by the captivating and mysterious Leading Player fervently reminding him of his purpose while keeping the audience amused and occasionally diverted with sardonic glee.

 
Hirson’s cynical edge (which Fosse would effectively use as a model three years later when co-writing the libretto for “Chicago” with Fred Ebb) and Schwartz’s radiant score have always been a strong match, but director Diane Paulus, who rightfully won the Tony for this staging, resurrects the material anew with a brilliantly inspired circus concept. Truly adhering to the enticing lyrics driving the groovy opening number “Magic to Do,” Paulus, with tremendous assistance from Montreal’s Les 7 doigts de la main troupe co-founded by Gypsy Snider, heightens the action with an assortment of thrilling, death-defying routines. Having cast members perform various acts of magic and athleticism not only speaks to the fun and danger of life in general but fittingly reflects the evolution of Pippin’s eye-opening journey as he simultaneously matures as a man and, particularly in the eyes of the audience, entertainer.

 
The uniformly terrific cast is blessed with first-rate principals. As the beguilingly suave Leading Player, Gabrielle McClinton, a knockout triple threat, crisply commands with intuitiveness, sass and ferocity, specifically filling “On the Right Track” with a soulful pop vibe. Amiable Brian Flores, freshly graduated from the University of Michigan, conveys a charmingly boyish sensibility in the titular role while bringing introspective joy to such songs as “Corner of the Sky,” “With You” and “Morning Glow.” John Rubenstein, the original Pippin and a Tony winner for “Children of a Lesser God,” effortlessly embodies the kooky Charles the Great (Charlemagne) with spirited humor and deftly imposing resonance. Priscilla Lopez, the original Diana in “A Chorus Line” and a Tony winner for “A Day in Hollywood/A Night in the Ukraine,” absolutely enchants as Pippin’s delightfully earthy grandma Berthe in the “No Time at All” sequence spotlighting her fascinatingly flexible trapeze act. As Pippin’s conniving stepmother Fastrada, the elegant, statuesque Sabrina Harper dazzles in “Spread a Little Sunshine” complete with eye-popping costume changes resulting in a scintillating red dress and dance number recalling “The Music and the Mirror” from “A Chorus Line.” Handsome Erik Altemus enjoyably reprises his Broadway portrayal of Pippin’s vain, treacherous brother Lewis. The attractively earnest Bradley Benjamin warmly interprets the comical, sensitive widow Catherine, notably joining Flores late in Act 2 for a gorgeous, ‘70s folk-acoustic rendition of “Love Song.” Jake Berman humorously startles as Catherine’s persnickety son Theo.

 
In addition, Fosse’s choreography, specifically his iconic “Manson Trio” routine in the “Glory” sequence sparkling with the mesmerizing slinkiness of McClinton and two ensemble Players, is superbly authenticated in his definitive style by Tony nominee Chet Walker. The exemplary, Tony-nominated circus locale/design is courtesy of scenic designer Scott Pask, lighting designer Kenneth Posner, and costumer Dominique Lemieux. Musical director Ryan Cantwell leads a vibrant, top-notch orchestra.
From start to finish this “Pippin” excels to the hilt. Get your tickets!

 
“Pippin” continues through Oct. 11 at the Schuster Center, Second and Main Streets, Dayton. Performances are Thursday and Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 8 pm, and Sunday at 2 and 7:30 pm. The production is performed in 2 hours and 35 minutes with one 15-minute intermission. Tickets are $25-$92. For tickets or more information, call Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630 or visit www.ticketcenterstage.com.

Dayton Native Zac Pitts Joins Living Dayton Team

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Zac PittsWDTN-TV today announced the addition of Dayton native Zac Pitts to the Living Dayton team.  Pitts comes to Living Dayton from WCPO-TV in Cincinnati where he’s spent the last year and a half as a morning reporter.

“We are thrilled to have Zac join our Living Dayton family,” said Joe Abouzeid, WDTN-TV President & General Manager.  “He has strong ties to the community and will be an asset to the Living Dayton team.”

Pitts was born and raised in Dayton and is an alum of Chaminade-Julienne High School.  He went on to the University of Dayton and graduated with a degree in Electronic Media Communications.

“I’m honored with the opportunity to come back home and join the amazing team assembled on Living Dayton,” said Pitts.  “The Miami Valley is a great place to live and I can’t wait to do my part to showcase the best that Dayton has to offer.”

Pitts will be joined by co-hosts Katie Kenney and Sallie Taylor beginning Wednesday, October 21st.  Living Dayton airs live each weekday from Noon to 1pm on WDTN-TV.

Where are the Outdoor Refreshment Areas?

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On April 30, 2015, Gov. John Kasich approved a new law which permits municipalities and townships with a population greater than 35,000 to create outdoor refreshment areas (“ORA”). Much press surrounded this new law as it was introduced in the Ohio House and signed into law less than three months later, an incredibly fast moving bill. Representatives from the Cincinnati area were pushing for the new law so an ORA could be established in time for the All Star Game on July 14, 2015. Many were intrigued about the possibility of “Bourbon Street” like atmospheres around the State as open container laws are relaxed within an ORA and passengers on a commercial quadricycle can drink (if certain standards are met). What’s not to love about this new law!?

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Well, five months have passed since creation of the new law and we are not aware of any ORA established in Ohio (not even Cincinnati). Like any law, especially those involving alcohol, the devil is in the details. For starters, an application for an ORA must include the following:

 

  • A map/survey of the proposed ORA in sufficient detail to identify the boundaries, which shall not exceed 320 contiguous acres or one-half mile;

 

  • A general statement of the nature and types of establishments located within the ORA;

 

  • A statement that the proposed ORA will encompass no less than 4 “qualified permit holders” (think breweries, wineries, restaurants and/or night clubs);

 

  • Evidence that uses of land within the ORA are permitted by master zoning plan/map of municipality or township; and

 

  • Proposed requirements for the purpose of ensuring public health and safety within the ORA.

 

After public notice of the application and perhaps a public hearing, the municipality or township determines whether to approve the application. If approved, notice must be given to the Ohio Division of Liquor Control and the Ohio Department of Public Safety of the approval and description of the area provided in the application.

 

The Division of Liquor Control is then required to issue an ORA designation to each qualified permit holder located within the ORA at no cost. However, issuance of an ORA designation is not the end of the process as a municipality or township is also required to adopt an ordinance or resolution which establishes requirements “necessary to ensure public health and safety” within the ORA. Requirements necessary to ensure public health and safety must include all of the following:

 

  1. The specific boundaries of the area, including street addresses;

 

  1. The number, spacing, and type of signage designating the area;

 

  1. The hours of operation for the area;

 

  1. The number of personnel needed to ensure public safety in the area;

 

  1. A sanitation plan that will help maintain the appearance and public health of the area;

 

  1. The number of personnel needed to execute the sanitation plan; and

 

  1. Beer and liquor may only be served in plastic bottles or other plastic containers in the area.

 

The responsibility to comply with public health and safety requirements falls on each qualified permit holder within the ORA. Many of these requirements will result in additional cost and expense to permit holders, municipalities and townships. These additional “burdens” may cause many to question the benefit of an ORA and may be a major roadblock in the creation of any ORA.

 

Municipalities and townships are free to create more requirements than above to ensure public health and safety within the ORA. In fact, the City of Dayton passed a resolution on July 29, 2015 establishing the procedure for the designation of an ORA. While the entire resolution can be found here the City of Dayton’s procedure requires more than above.

 

For instance, petitions for an ORA are submitted to the Department of Planning and Community Development and require petitioners, among other things, to consult with police, fire, public works, neighborhood groups and the Downtown Dayton Partnership before submitting the petition. The ORA Petition Review Committee then makes a recommendation to the City Manager who then determines whether to submit an application to the City Commission for consideration.

 

BeerCounselThe question remains – will any Ohio city or township approve an ORA in the near future? It will require much planning, cooperation and patience. However, the City of Dayton has taken a proactive first-step for the establishment of an ORA. Hopefully it won’t be long before we’re all riding quadricycles!

 

Contact your friendly beer lawyers at www.OhioBeerCounsel.com or (937) 222-2424 with questions.

 

Cheers,

Adam and Kevin

A Difference Maker In Dayton: Firehouse Subs

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 12036366_10156075898850557_6822006841768877690_nWhile they may be known for their mouthwatering hot subs, piled high with  meats and cheeses,  Firehouse Subs also gives back to the community by way of their Public Safety Foundation. This Thursday, October 8th, Firehouse Subs will be launching their very first Foundation Day of Thanks.

Firehouse Subs  will be celebrating a $39,000 donation to the Kettering and Fairborn Fire Departments. “Donations from  Firehouse Subs round up at the register program and the sale of our 5 gallon pickle buckets have raised the funds to provide two state of the art chest compression systems to Kettering and one to Fairborn through our foundation,” according to Dave Baker, franchise owner of the Kettering Firehouse Subs. “In the past year we’ve funded two of these automated  defibrillators for Huber Heights, one for Vandalia and I believe Xenia was just approved for one.  I’ve heard that Kettering has already saved 2 lives with their equipment.”

Founded in 2005, Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation is a nonprofit organization that works to provide funding, life-saving equipment, and educational opportunities to first responders and public safety organizations. Since the organization was founded, they have donated over $14 Million to heroes nationwide and nearly $650,000 in the state of Ohio alone.

You can stop by Firehouse Subs to join in the festivities! The fun begins bright and early at 10:30AM at the UD location on Oakwood Avenue. Meet Firehouse Subs representatives and firefighters and  other first responders and enjoy a sub while you’re at it.

Dayton area Firehouse Sub locations:

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6 Oakwood Ave · (937) 813-1585
Open 10:30am until 9pm

 

North Heights Plaza
8436 Old Troy Pike · (937) 938-9737
Open 10:30am until 10pm

 

4301 Far Hills Ave · (937) 298-4444
Open 10:30am until 9pm

 



make_a_differenceDo you know someone who’s making a difference in the Dayton region?  Someone who gives of their time and talent to make our community a better place?  An unsung hero that is quietly making an effort to make someone’s life a little better?  Nominate them as a DMM Difference Maker and we’ll honor them and share their story.  Send us an email with their story.

Find the Right Coach for You

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There’s a gulf between what serious fitness coaches want for people and what people want from fitness coaches.

A good coach wants to help make someone stronger, more mobile, and better conditioned.

People want to lose weight.

A good coach builds a program progressively, often leaving something in the tank so a client can continue without injury and with proper recovery.

People want to hire someone to “kick their butt.”

A good coach wants to teach you how to eat well for the rest of your life.

People just want a diet to follow.

A good coach wants you to strengthen your trunk.

People just want to be able to see their abs.

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There’s usually a divide between coach’s goals and client’s goals.

The difficulty for fitness professionals who want to be the best is that they have to compete with Instagram fitness celebrities posing in booty shorts, Facebook entrepreneurs hawking pyramid-schemey supplements and “cleanses,” and ripped guys at the local gym who are great at training their own bodies but less competent when it comes to working with a 45-year-old mother of three who works full time and has a commute.

And the challenge for consumers is that few people have the time and energy to sift through the noise to get to the signal. So today I want to give you some basic categories you can research when looking for a personal trainer.

1.) Certification: A national certification doesn’t guarantee competence, but it does show a modicum of interest in professional development. This is a VERY low bar.

2.) Equipment: This is a somewhat controversial assertion, but I would argue that the more a trainer uses machines in their work with the general public then the less they probably know about biomechanics—and that’s not a good thing. Run far away from the coach who tells you that they want to “start” you off on machines and then progress to free weights. If you’re not learning how to move, then you’re missing out on half the benefit of working with a coach.

3.) Professionalism: You should never see your trainer’s cell phone during a session. Never. They should be ready for you before you arrive, and they ought to have a plan for your session that builds upon previous sessions and toward future ones. If they can’t answer simple questions about how what you’re doing fits into a larger plan then they’re making it up as they go along.

4.) Focus: I’ve been the personal trainer who’s doing the job to support another career aspiration. And you know what? I wasn’t very good or very focused then. You want a coach whose livelihood depends upon and whose life is fitness. The focused coach is constantly reading, evaluating her own technique, and adding new tools.

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5.) They’re willing to say “I don’t know”: A funny thing happens the more experience one gains in fitness—an increased willingness to admit when something is new or foreign or beyond one’s previous experience. The number of times I’ve referred people to other professionals (psychotherapists, physical therapists, certified dietitians, etc.) has increased proportionally with my years of experience. Think about your own work experience. Don’t you trust the people more who are willing to say “I don’t know”? Yeah, me too.

If you don’t ask these questions or pay attention to these cues, you might just find yourself working with a “fitness professional” who views you like an ATM, dumping cash into their pockets week after week irrespective of your progress. They’ll be more than happy to help you “lose weight” before your friend’s wedding with some diet plan they cribbed from the Internet.

The truth is, there ought to be a gulf between what you want and what your coach wants. He knows more about fitness than you do, and so he has a better idea of what’s appropriate, achievable, and sustainable. Whenever I find myself getting a little frustrated by the gulf, I remind myself of this fact: all good coaches are good teachers and view themselves as such. Use the five categories I’ve given you above to help find the right teacher for you.

Dayton Ballet Presents the Classic Cinderella

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Say “Cinderella,” and what word comes to mind? Romance? Intrigue? Love? Humor?  How could it not? Just look at the list of characters in the cast: a harassed serving girl, a wicked stepmother, two evil stepsisters, a fairy godmother, four fairies, 12 prince’s courtiers, four mice, four attendants, a beautiful princess, and, of course, a handsome prince.
This October, Dayton Ballet opens with the first of three full-length story ballets for its 2015-2016 Ascend Season. Dayton Ballet Artistic Director Karen Russo Burke’s spectacular Cinderella returns to the Victoria Theatre, featuring the wonderful music of Russian composer Sergei Prokofiev.

 

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Prokofiev began work on Cinderella in 1940 but did not complete the score until 1945, having had other obligations during World War II that kept him from this piece. Prokofiev said about the beloved protagonist, “I see Cinderella not only as a fairy-tale character, but also as a real person, feeling, experiencing, moving among us.” (101 Stories of the Great Ballets by George Balanchine and Francis Moon) And his beautiful music has inspired the most acclaimed of choreographers to bring the fairy-tale character to life on stage, perhaps as Prokofiev himself envisioned her.  Since 1945, Cinderella has become one of the most popular and most widely performed classical ballets with ballet companies worldwide.
Artistic Director Karen Russo Burke originally choreographed this production in 2013, with all the intrigue, love and humor one would expect from one of the world’s most iconic rags-to-riches love stories. Dayton Ballet brings this wildly popular story ballet back to the stage, complete with gorgeous, colorful costumes by Lowell Mathwich and the whimsical set designs of Ray Zupp.
Add to this staging the melodic music of master Sergei Prokofiev, danced with the outstanding expertise of Dayton Ballet, and another word might just come to mind when we say “Cinderella”—magic.

On Thursday, October 22 at 7:30 pm; Friday, October 23 at 8 pm; Saturday, October 24 at 8 pm; and Sunday, October 25 at 3 pm in the Victoria Theatre, the Dayton Ballet is thrilled to present Cinderella, the first ballet of the 2015–2016 Ascend Season. The Thursday evening performance of Cinderella includes a Pizza Prelude from Uno’s Pizzeria to be served in the Victoria lobby beginning at 7 pm.
The Dayton Ballet Barre will host a Cinderella Tea at Boston Stoker, 34 W. Second Street, across the street from the Schuster Center, on Sunday, October 25 from 1:30 pm-2:30 pm, before the matinee performance.  A story, a dance lesson, and a snack will make for a delightful afternoon before attending the performance.  Cinderella and her handsome Prince Charming will make an appearance for magical photo opportunities.  Tickets for the Cinderella Tea are $10 for adults and children and are sold separately from the performance. Tickets can be purchased by calling Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630.

Before each performance, Ms. Burke will hold a pre-performance talk called “The First Step,” giving audience members a more in-depth look at the upcoming performance and a behind-the-scenes peek at Dayton Ballet.  “The First Step” will be held 45 minutes prior to curtain time for each performance in the Burnell Roberts Room at 126 North Main Street, beside the Victoria Theatre.  “Behind the Ballet,” a Q&A with dancers that gives audiences the opportunity to learn more about the life of a dancer with Dayton Ballet, will follow each performance in the theatre.  “The First Step” and “Behind the Ballet” sessions are free of charge for all ticketholders.

 
Tickets for Cinderella are $21 to $72 and are available at Ticket Center Stage (937) 228-3630 or online at www.daytonperformingarts.org. Senior, teacher and student discounts available at box office. For more information or to order subscriptions, including flexible subscription types that include performances by Dayton Philharmonic, Dayton Opera and Dayton Ballet, visit www.daytonperformingarts.org.

Happy Hour Sliders at Jay’s Seafood A Hit!

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jaysslidersOne of Dayton’s best deals is also one of its best kept secrets: happy hour at Jay’s Seafood on Sixth Street in the Oregon District. Introduced over the summer to entice more early evening guests, happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 5 – 6:30pm  and features $4 domestic craft beers, $3 domestics, $4 house wines, $4 well drinks, $6 martinis, and 25% off all appetizers.
But the real gems of this new program are the sliders, small burger sandwiches served two at a time. “Small” is relative, though — together, any two of the sliders equal to more than a normal-sized burger. I went in on an empty stomach and couldn’t finish the second slider on my plate. There are three kinds: kobe beef with white cheddar is the most popular, and tuna and salmon are available as well. An order of sliders is just $5, or for $8 you can get a sampler plate with one of all three varieties.

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“There’s been a really good response to the new sliders,” owner Amy Haverstick said of the tuna and salmon, which were added last month alongside the popular beef offering. “One of our chefs has been with us for 34 years, and another has been here for 31. We sat down together and they came up with the happy hour menu items. We’ve gotten great compliments on them all.”

Jay’s also offers a monthly 3 course meal deal  and here’s what’s on the menu for October for $27:

First Course
Beef Barley Soup -or- Herbed Ghost Pepper Créme dressing on grilled Romaine with roasted beets and walnuts

Second Course
Pumpkin Seed-Crusted Salmon with a spicy pumpkin curry sauce served with roasted redskin potatoes or vegetable du jour  -or-    Pan Seared New York Strip steak with au gratin potatoes and herb butter

Third Course
Almond Pear Tar  -or-  Peanut Butter Pie with Chocolate Ganache

Jay’s is also know for their quarterly wine luncheons, and there’s one coming up this Saturday:

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This historic bar dates back to the 1870’s, when it was Ritty’s Pony House.

Italian Wine Luncheon, October 10, 2015 12:30 pm

With Guest Chef Michael Tenore and
Wines with Michael Freeman

Linguine Al Frutti Di Mare
2012 Fiona Di Avellino

Caprese Salad
2012 Greco Di Tufo

Wild Boar Boneless Chop with Roasted Vegetables And Polenta
2012 Tenuta Delle Terre Nere Etna Rosso Calderarra Sottana

Butter Poached Beef Tenderloin with Mushroom Ragu and Truffle Fries
2010 Ciacci Piccolomini Brunello

Almond Cake
2005 Lucignano Vin Santo

For more information about Jay’s Seafood or to make reservations call 937-222-2892.

‘The Columnist’ Review – Dayton Theatre Guild – Power and Secrecy Inside the Beltway

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The intriguing double life of prominent Republican syndicated columnist Joseph Alsop (1910-1989) provides the thought-provoking basis for David Auburn’s engrossing 2012 drama “The Columnist,” currently receiving an excellent local premiere at the Dayton Theatre Guild.

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The cast of Dayton Theatre Guild’s production of “The Columnist” includes back row (left to right) Alexa Storar, Rick Flynn, Dakota Dulco, Jenna Gomes; Front row: David Shough, Wendi Michael, (Not pictured: Chris Petree and Ryan Shannon). (Contributed photo)

As he ascended in fame and influence in Washington, D.C. from the 1940s through the late 1960s, Joe hid his sexuality, a fact Auburn frankly details at the outset which depicts the legendary writer awakening from a tryst with a handsome tour guide in a Moscow hotel circa 1954. Afterward Joe is busted by the K.G.B, but his closeted identity looms within the entire proceedings, based on real events and predominately taking place in his posh Georgetown residence (attractively designed by Les Dersham) during the hopeful and ultimately tumultuous 1960s. Joe’s fascinating complexity (he particularly entered a marriage of convenience) bolstered by his fervent support of the Vietnam War certainly stirs emotions within this insightful character study. Even so, Auburn, best known as the Tony and Pulitzer Prize-winning author of “Proof,” astutely dissects Joe’s political views, especially foreign policy concerns, to balance the storytelling with intellectual bite. One of the most interesting facets of Joe’s conservative playbook rests in his peculiar distaste for Dwight Eisenhower and great affection for Franklin D. Roosevelt and John F. Kennedy. In fact, Kennedy’s assassination proves pivotal here implying how persuasive Joe, who prided himself on promoting Lyndon Johnson as a vice presidential pick, would have been during Kennedy’s second term as matters at home (civil rights) and abroad (Vietnam) escalated.

 


Director Doug Lloyd’s cast is superbly led by David Shough, whose outstanding Guild staging of “Outside Mullingar” two months ago is still the talk of the town. The effortless Shough, tailor-made for the role, marvelously inhabits Joe as a combative, prickly, slick, vain, stodgy, and wounded quandary. Even when Auburn’s script becomes a bit heavy-handed late in Act 2 when Joe has a blast from the past, Shough avoids overkill and sustains credibility. Wendi Michael, beautifully costumed in period attire by Carol Finley, brings tenderness and fitting agitation to her portrayal of Susan Mary Alsop, Joe’s loving yet insecure wife particularly in charge of hostess duties. Rick Flynn, in one of his finest performances, is equally impactful as Joe’s younger brother Stewart who shared a column with him in their early days. Dakota Duclo, charming with a tinge of cunning ambition and dubiousness, delicately embodies Russian informant Andrei. Jenna Gomes, very strong as Susan Mary’s daughter and future hippie Abigail, and Chris Petree as pushy New York Times reporter David Halberstam also contribute to the production’s appeal along with Alexa Storar as Young Abigail and Ryan Shannon as Philip.
It helps to have some affinity for politics and American history when viewing “The Columnist,” but its age-old themes of power and secrecy thoroughly resonates to the fullest.

 

“The Columnist” continues through Oct. 18 at the Dayton Theatre Guild, 430 Wayne Ave., Dayton. Performances are Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 5 p.m., and Sundays at 3 p.m. The play is performed in 2 hours with one 15-minute intermission. Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for seniors, and $13 for students. For tickets or more information, call (937) 278-5993 or visit www.daytontheatreguild.org

 

Music for me is joy. The joy of listening and of sharing…

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3de4216f46da1a06d8d98dfc2082b365It all beings with a mixtape. My first creation had humble beginnings, picture me crouched in front of my parents radio with a little Panasonic cassette recorder with two fingers trembling ready to press play+ record to catch my favorite song (once the DJ stopped talking). It was the start of a life long passion to create the ultimate playlist. From cassettes, reel to reel to CD’s, everything led to the modern day digital mixtape. While I can neither confirm nor deny my usage of the then illegal Napster to create my web 2.0 masterpieces, it was the gateway for many to frictionless sharing. The very notion of taking digital music and creating something you could send to your friends around the corner or on the other side of the world was in a word, amazing. But, we all know that stealing is bad and thus a new paradigm was needed. At the time, there were plenty of ways to buy digital music and listen to your hearts content. Sending that music to others had pretty much regressed back to burning CD’s. Meanwhile in Europe, my friends were extolling the virtues of a new service called Spotify. You could pay a monthly fee, have unlimited access to music, create playlist and download them to your computer or mobile device..

This was everything!spotify-logo

Well, I still had to wait until the doors opened for America. Once launched, Spotify was the truth. I opened my account the very first day and had visions of musical communication on a global scale. Yes, yes, I know. you’re thinking Duane, aren’t there other services? Indeed- Rdio, Apple Music, Google Play and Amazon Prime all do an excellent job of letting you listen to music… by yourself. Remember, this story is about crafting something special and gifting it to others. Oddly, rival services didn’t seem to be the stumbling block, people were the issue. I discovered, some folks are really weird about exposing their musical taste. They’ll share what they had for breakfast or if tf they forgot to wear underwear but ask them to share a playlist and it becomes problematic.. Look, if my friend Bryan can admit he loves Creed and Nikki can squeal over boy bands, it’s time to open your musical vault and let us peek inside. I want to declare a sonic revolution. Let your freak flag fly and spread the love. Let others know the soundtrack to your day, week, house cleaning driving or whatever gets you on the groove.

I’ll start. I’ll post three of my many playlist via Spotify here on DMM and I’ll share a reader submitted list on a weekly basis. Submit your list here.

 

‘The K of D, An Urban Legend’ Review – Magnolia Theatre Company – Captivating Storytelling

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Dayton native Annie Pesch, a Wright State University alumna whose professional credits include Human Race Theatre Company, Actors Theatre of Louisville, Cleveland Play House, and Chicago Dramatists, portrays 17 characters in Magnolia Theatre Company’s local premiere of Laura Schellhardt’s 2008 mystery/drama “The K of D, An Urban Legend” (Contributed photo)

An outstanding Annie Pesch inhabits 17 colorful characters in Magnolia Theatre Company’s terrific local premiere of Laura Schellhardt’s humorous and gripping 2008 ghost story “The K of D, An Urban Legend” continuing through Sunday, Oct. 4 inside the black box Mathile Theatre of the Schuster Center.

 
One-person shows always demand immense versatility, energy and breadth of scope, particularly when the material requires the actor to embody multiple ages and personalities. Thankfully, Pesch, having already proven her worth in this realm years ago in Dayton Theatre Guild’s “The Belle of Amherst” and Wright State University’s “Fully Committed,” steps up to the plate once again with dynamic intuitiveness and captivating ease. This time, she specifically portrays The Girl, the central storyteller of this spooky summertime tale set in nearby rural St. Marys concerning Charlotte McGraw, a quietly introverted young girl kissed by her twin brother Jamie before he dies. The legend in question stems from the belief that whatever Charlotte kissed from that moment on also dies. As Charlotte and her particularly quirky friends (all distinctively and emotionally realized by Pesch) come to terms with witnessing tragedy firsthand, Schellhardt spins a beautifully poetic and engrossing web of mystery and danger. In fact, one of Pesch’s finest, darkest characterizations is of menacing hillbilly Johnny Whistler, the crude, reckless driver who killed Jamie and especially intimidates the muted Charlotte when he becomes her next door neighbor.

 
In addition to ensuring the tireless Pesch confidently conveys various identities, director Kimberly Borst, who staged “Pride and Prejudice” and “Songs for a New World” at Sinclair Community College last season, fluidly heightens the play’s intimacy by bringing her as close to the audience as possible and never having her remain stationary for lengthy periods. Movement is key and a refreshing plus throughout. Borst also receives impressively atmospheric support from a first-rate artistic team including lighting designer Jessy Henning, sound designer Emily Hutton (notably offering wonderfully eerie and impactful contributions), set designer Tristan Cupp, and costumer/Magnolia founder Gina Handy.

 
So, does Charlotte truly have the kiss of death? Clear your schedule this weekend and find out. After all, Pesch, Borst and the increasingly promising Magnolia Theatre Company have crafted a solid, engaging, fast-paced, and breathtaking experience.

 

 

“The K of D, An Urban Legend” continues today at 2 and 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. inside the Mathile Theatre of the Schuster Center, Second and Main Streets, Dayton. The production is performed in 75 minutes without intermission. Tickets are $20 general admission and $15 for military, educators and students. For tickets or more information, call Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630 or visit www.ticketcenterstage.com.

Saturday Night Live at the Soft Rock

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Tonight the Soft Rock Cafe in Centerville will be rockin’ for a great cause til 2am!

This annual charitable event helps the fight against breast cancer and will benefit the Susan G. Komen Foundation.

The night features a special, live performance by one of Dayton’s favorite bands, THE FABULOUS DEBONTE BROTHERS !

Join the fun!  DOOR PRIZES, SILENT AUCTION, DRINK SPECIALS, 50/50 and so much more.  Please come out for a rockin good time with great music, and a great cause !

The Food Adventures Crew will be supporting the cause by being “guest pizza makers” for the night.

Make a difference and help find a cure for breast cancer.  What better way to spend a cool Saturday night ?

Spend it LIVE at SOFT ROCK !

 

Join the fight against Breast Cancer tonight !

WHERE: SOFT ROCK CAFE, 877 E. Franklin Street, Centerville

 

WHAT : FUNDRAISER TO CURE BREAST CANCER – Debonte Brothers, Live in concert!

 

WHEN: DOORS OPEN 8pm TONIGHT (Saturday, October 3rd)

 

COST: $5 donation at the door

 

*** NOTICE – TO ATTEND THIS EVENT, YOU MUST BE AT LEAST 21 YEARS OLD.

Check out the show, see you tonight !

 

The Fabulous Debonte Brothers in concert LIVE !

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Find a Cure

Guest Pizza Makers !

The Debonte Brothers band – in the back seat of Jackies car

Classic Rock, 80’s, 90’s too

Mark Hall on drums

Benefit proceeds go to the Susan G. Komen fund

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Warped Wing Releases “Creep Show” in time for Amber Rose Ghost Hunt

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Warped Wing partners with The Amber Rose for a Food Adventure

Warped Wing Brewing Company has done it again with a new flavor of suds.  It is a Smoked Porter called “Creep Show.”  This Warped Wing release party is in conjunction with a Ghost Hunting Food Adventure at The Amber Rose, SATURDAY NIGHT, October 24th called “Creeps and Creaks.”

This is a one night only, one-of-a-kind ghost hunting happening.  Amber Rose Restaurant is giving unprecedented access to their basement and restaurant, for anyone who wants to see some spooks for themselves.   The party starts at 9pm and will feature a tour with paranormal experts and beers along the way.  The night will feature a tour with 3 stops, 3 beers and 3 appetizer stations.  After the tour, guests are welcome to explore on their own and enjoy cash bar drink specials until close.

So come stay out ’til 2am while hanging with some of Warped Wing’s finest, The Paranormal Investigation Team of Shelly, Kat and Alicia, Amber Rose owner Joe Castellano and The Food Adventures Crew of The Big Ragu, Hungry Jax and Chef House.

Creep Show – A Smoked Porter from Warped Wing

Spots are limited.   We only have room for 40 scared patrons.  Attendees will be anything from beer lovers, to amateur paranormal investigators. CLICK HERE TO GET TICKETS.   Bring your cameras, recorders or any other equipment you may have!

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

WHEN: SATURDAY NIGHT, OCTOBER 24th,  9pm – 2am

WHERE: The “Haunted” AMBER ROSE RESTAURANT, 1400 Valley Street

WHAT:  TOUR LEAD BY PARANORMAL INVESTIGATION TEAM

*** 3 Stop Tour Guide

*** 3 Beers

*** 3 Appetizers

*** Freedom to “ghost hunt” until 2am

AFTER PARTY: Open Ghost Chasing and Exploration, Cash Bar with Drink Specials and $1 menu until close…

 

STOP #1: UPSTAIRS 9PM –
The beer will be WARPED WING REVERENT RED IPA served with
SAUERBRATEN CROSTINIS, BACON MAC N CHEESE BITES and MINI-OPEN FACE REUBENS

 

STOP #2: THE BASEMENT: 
The beer will be WARPED WING’S CREEP SHOW (SMOKED PORTER) served with
GERMAN STYLE BBQ PORK on a PRETZEL ROLL

 

STOP # 3: THE MAIN DINING ROOM
The beer will be FLYING HEAD’S DOUBLE PUMPKIN served with
ROSE APPLE TARTS

 

COST: $25 includes gratuity (Pre-pay only)  

Tickets may be bought only through DaytonMostMetro by clicking HERE

DON’T FORGET THE AFTER PARTY until 2am: Explore the place yourself do your own Ghost Hunting,

Cash Bar with Drink Specials and special late night menu until 2am

 

 

So join this extra special night of spookiness, spirits, Amber Rose Food, ghost chasers and local beer!

It will be a WARPED night for sure.

Come hungry, come thirsty, and get ready for the CREEP SHOW !

Are you a Dayton Foodie?  Then join the 5,000+ fanatics on our Food Adventures Facebook Page by clicking HERE !

Warped Wing in the House ,, HAUNTED HOUSE !

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This woman is said to be one of the friendly spirits at Amber Rose

Drink with the Food Adventure Crew All night

Chef TJ and Owner Joe

Outside the restaurant

Warped Wing’s Brewery – home of the new CREEP SHOW Beer

Enter for a night of food, creeps and drinks

Dayton’s Warped Wing Beer

CREEPS and CREAKS – a night of ghosts, beer and food

Partners for the event

Basement Beer

After Party will include $1 food menu and beer specials

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

‘The Great Gatsby’ Review – Wright State University – Man of the Moment

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Frank Loesser had it wrong. There’s wonderful music in the very sound of Gatsby, a name immediately conjuring images of power, prestige, wealth, infatuation, and mystery. As the seductive, titular focal point of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic 1925 novel, widely considered one of the greatest ever written, millionaire Jay Gatsby’s transformative history and romantic obsession is not lost in Wright State University’s current presentation. However, there are moments of detachment that could use a jubilant Jazz Age lift.

gatsby

Ben Tracy as Nick Carraway and the cast of Wright State University’s production of “The Great Gatsby” (Photo courtesy of W. Stuart McDowell)

Breezily adapted by Simon Levy and directed by W. Stuart McDowell, “The Great Gatsby” embraces the effervescence of the Roaring Twenties in its fascinating account of love lost yet regained on Long Island as Gatsby reunites with beautiful socialite Daisy Buchanan, his one true love, after nearly five years. But trouble looms as Daisy’s brutish, bigoted husband Tom continually despises Gatsby’s advances and his bootlegging despite his own indiscretion with Myrtle Wilson, the long-suffering wife of a local mechanic. As Daisy becomes increasingly torn by her past and present passions, her cousin Nick Carraway, a meek, impressionable salesman from Minnesota and Gatsby’s wartime buddy, immerses himself into Gatsby’s exciting universe, narrating his eye-opening experiences with great wonder and ultimate dissatisfaction.

McDowell, known for helming history-conscious plays from “Les Misérables” to “Titanic” on a grand, sweeping scale, surprisingly dials it back here creating one of his most straightforwardly intimate, script-driven, scaled-down productions. His directorial flair is evident (the perpetual presence of Daisy’s green light, the lovely descending wardrobe in the Act 1 finale, Act 2’s climatic car accident, the finale scene recalling “Sunset Boulevard”), but a consistent sense of opulence and frivolity is missing which is unfortunate since this flashy material speaks to exuberant excess. Granted, McDowell wonderfully energizes the action with colorful flapper routines choreographed by Greg Hellems, but there aren’t enough of these lively depictions, especially in the slow-going, emotionally insular Act 1.

Nonetheless, McDowell’s period-appropriate cast, beautifully costumed by Mary Beth McLaughlin and dialect coached by Deborah Thomas, amiably embodies their iconic roles. The handsome Connor Lysholm is an understatedly suave, fittingly enigmatic Gatsby heightened with brooding magnetism and a dangerous edge. The striking Caitlin Geisser, truly compatible with Lysholm, is the epitome of sophisticated privilege although at times she seems overly self-absorbed to the point of coldness. The tough, intimidating Joey Logan gruffly fits the bill as arrogant, hotheaded Tom. As Nick, the very personable, vulnerable Ben Tracy narrates with joy and yearning in a delicate capacity as onlooker and participant. As Myrtle, the sultry, impressively authentic Madeline Sensenstein commands attention late in Act 2 opposite Christian Schaefer as Myrtle’s husband George. The fine players include Chelsea Hauptstueck (Jordan Baker), Nathan Pecchia (Meyer Wolfsheim), William Mendleson (Chester McKee), Brittany Williams (Lucille McKee), Taylor Benjamin (Michaelis), Zac Pruett (Waiter/Cop/Photographer), and flappers Danielle Bessler, Carrie Vobroker, Hannah Williamson, and Halee Aguenstein.

By and large, the essence of greatness permeates this “Gatsby” as a decent start to WSU’s 41st season.
“The Great Gatsby” continues through Oct. 4 inside the Festival Playhouse of the Creative Arts Center at Wright State University, 3640 Col. Glenn Hwy., Fairborn. Performances are today at 8 pm, Saturday at 2 and 8 pm and Sunday at 2 pm. The production is performed in 2 hours with one 15-minute intermission. Tickets are $22 for adults and $20 for seniors and students. For tickets or more information, call WSU box office at (937) 775-2500 or visit www.wright.edu/theatre-dance-and-motion-pictures/performances/ticket-information

Fall Menu Arrives At Lily’s Bistro

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IMG_0158Fall has officially arrived in the Miami Valley and with it, Lily’s Bistro at 329 E 5th Street in the  Oregon District presents their latest seasonal menu.  Focusing on the change that comes with the autumn in Ohio, Lily’s head chef, Mariah Gahagan has designed a menu perfect for enjoying over the shortening days and cooling nights. “We start with the ingredients that we can get fresh, and locally whenever possible, and then build from around that,” said Mariah Gahagan. “There are a few returning favorites this fall along with a number of new things we’re excited to share with our diners.”

Highlights from the fall menu include Miso Smoked Trout, Chorizo and Clams, Iron Skillet Spoonbread, Short Rib Ossobuco with Bone Marrow, Seared Duck Breast with Pomegranate-Orange Gastrique (pictured below) and Cavatappi Pasta. “We also feature a changing cocktail menu and this IMG_0176season there’s a real focus on rich autumnal flavors like brown sugar, dark berries, maple syrup and more,” said Emily Mendenhall, general manager.

Bistro is open Tuesday-Thursday, 5pm-10pm; Friday and Saturday: 5pm-11pm, with lunch service Tuesday-Friday, 11:30am-3pm, with weekend brunch service Saturday and Sunday, 11am-3pm, and with family style fried chicken dinner, Sunday 5pm-9pm.

For the full fall menu, please see below:

Lilys Fall Dinner Menu 2015
As the holidays approach, Lily’s Bistro is also available for private parties. Contact 937-723-7637 or at [email protected] for more details.