Archives for October 2016

Jeff Murphy Brings Liza, Judy & Barbara To The Stage

October 24, 2016 By Dayton Most Metro

At age 4, Jeff Murphy was mesmerized. He was watching “A Star is Born”, starring Judy Garland, on a tiny black and white TV in the family living room. He didn’t know the beautiful woman with the extraordinary voice, but he was certain of one thing; it was love at first sight.

Just as little Judy, then named Frances Gumm, watched her parents do eight shows a day in Vaudeville, Jeff watched his mother and father star as the local darlings of community theater. The theater was a comfortable second home, and he immediately went from front row center into the spotlight. In one form or another, he’s been there ever since.

As a Celebrity Illusionist, Jeff Murphy has channeled Liza Minnelli, Judy Garland & Barbara Streisand just to name a few. Traveling the world, he brought his leading ladies to Tokyo, Sydney, Atlantic City, and New York including Madame Tussaud’s and The Plaza Hotel. He guest starred as a ‘fabulously crazy’ Liza Minnelli impersonator, on David E. Kelley’s FOX television series, ‘The Wedding Bells’.

Jeff is an accomplished producer, director and choreographer with theatrical award nominations and credits. Busy on both sides of the curtain, Jeff is also an accomplished producer, director and choreographer. One New York production he created, produced, and stared in, “Below the Valley of the Dolls”, gained him a MAC award nomination. Backstage reviewer Martin Schaeffer writes; “Murphy is much more than a campy drag. Underneath it all is a germ of real dramatic depth. Of course is doesn’t hurt that he has lots of talent”. John Hoglund, of Cabaret Hotline, writes; “Murphy is a very talented singer, dancer, and actor.

Jeff attended the acclaimed American Academy of Dramatic of Arts and acting credits include creating the role of Hansel in the New York City Opera retelling of Hansel and Gretel “Babes in the Woods”, title role “Peter Pan”, Puck in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”, and the Artful Dodger in “Oliver!”.

This Friday, Oct 28th The Dayton Woman’s Club will present a Dinner and a show featuring illusionist Jeff Murphy as Liza, Judy & Barbara. Seating is limited to 112 so make early reservations!!!

Reservations must include an entrée choice of:
Caramel Apple Pork Chops OR Spiced Turkey Roast
Both served with:
Oregon Fall Salad, DWC Wheat/White Yeast Rolls,
Broccoli & Stuffing Casserole, Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes
Apple-Rhubarb Crisp w/ Caramel Sauce

Complimentary Appetizers & Cash Bar at 5:30 p.m. to Include: Cranberry Meatballs & Cheese/Crackers
Dinner: 6:00 pm, Show: 7:00 pm
$27.00 members / $30.00 non-members (tax, tip,non-alcoholic beverage included)
RSVP @ (937) 228-1124

‘Dracula’ and ‘Outgoing Tide’ Reviews – Sinclair Community College and Dayton Theatre Guild – Potent Productions

October 22, 2016 By Russell Florence, Jr.

DRACULA
Sinclair Community College’s impressively dark and disturbing production of Steven Dietz’s breezily faithful adaptation of Bram Stoker’s classic 1897 novel “Dracula” opens the organization’s 2016-2017 season on a high note.

Directed with striking fluidity and expert tone by Kimberly Borst, this “Dracula” is by no means a campy, overtly melodramatic horror show intended to make you giggle for two hours or confirm your decision to dress up as one of Stoker’s characters for Halloween. On the contrary, it’s an emotionally uneasy and outright eerie experience dramatically diving (and occasionally flying) straight to the core of examining the compelling consequences of incessant desire, unrelenting power, possessive affection, and cruel mind games within society. Thankfully, these gripping factors, revealing many unsettling truths, are executed with committed fervor from one of the most chameleonic ensembles Sinclair has assembled.

The wonderfully versatile Leo Santucci is an astutely brooding knockout navigating the titular vampire’s creepily cunning quests of love and supremacy with a sinister booming voice that’ll send shivers down your spine. He also ensures Dracula’s villainy is far from one-dimensional by layering his language-driven portrayal with melancholy, wistfulness and sly humor. Fine work extends to the dynamic Maximilian Santucci as the stalwart Van Helsing, a first-rate Jonathan Kelly as authoritative John Seward, a delightfully physical Tristan Rivera as insane Renfield (his transition at the outset is an early highlight), Gabriella Neuerer as sophisticated Mina, Sydney Baker as Mina’s spellbound best friend Lucy, Thomas Puckett as Mina’s amiable fiancé Jonathan Harker, Nick Baver and Andre Tomlinson as asylum attendants, and Chelsey Hall and Erin McGee as Dracula’s evil vixens.

Borst’s exemplary artistic team, attractively and atmospherically recreating 19th century London and Transylvania, includes set designer Chris Harmon, costumer Kathleen Hotmer, lighting designer Dan Brunk, projection designer Gina Neuerer, fight choreographer Gary Minyard, flying director William G. L. Courson, VertigoTM’s flying effects, prop designer Sarah Gomes, wig/makeup designer Brooke Watson, blood and special effects designer Kaoime E. Malloy, and sound designer Isaiah Parnell.

If you’re in the mood for thrills and chills, do not miss this terrific fright fest.

“Dracula” continues through Oct. 29 inside Blair Hall Theatre of Sinclair Community College, Building 2, 444 W. Third St., Dayton. Performances are Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., Sunday at 2 p.m., and Thursday at 7 p.m. The Sunday and Thursday performances are American Sign Language interpreted. Tickets are $18 adults and $15 student and seniors. Thursday tickets specifically cost $10. For tickets or more information, call Sinclair Box Office at (937) 512-2808 or visit www.sinclair.edu/tickets

THE OUTGOING TIDE
The Dayton Theatre Guild provides a lovely local premiere of Bruce Graham’s thought-provoking 2011 drama “The Outgoing Tide.”

Set in autumn on Chesapeake Bay, evocatively brought to life by scenic designer Fred Blumenthal and sound designer J. Gary Thompson, this poignant and relatable work chronicles the difficult, life-altering choices Gunner and Peg Concannon must face centered on Gunner’s progressive Alzheimer’s. Gunner and Peg have been married for over 50 years, but the time has come for them to take a hard look at what the future must hold. Peg doesn’t mind moving to a senior facility so she can assist Gunner’s need for long-term care, but Gunner vehemently resists. He wants to end his life on his own terms and with dignity. As discussions grow heated and the pain of the past bubbles to the surface, especially as Gunner and Peg’s only son Jack attempts to serve as mediator while coping with his own emotionally fractured household, the play forces us to recognize the value of respecting one’s wishes no matter how distressing or sorrowful.

Under Kathy Mola’s delicate direction, Graham’s trio remarkably connects. Peter Wallace, a standout last season at the Guild in “Slowgirl,” walks the fine line between conveying Gunner’s troubling mental deterioration and amusingly tapping into his opinionated, cantankerous behavior. It’s a tricky game, but Wallace admirably steps up to the plate. As Peg, Barbara Jorgensen delivers another luminous display of outstanding character-specific complexity that will break your heart. Pay heed to her sharp, perceptive work at the top of Act 2, the finest scene in the play addressing Peg’s unwavering commitment to her family, opposite the excellently understated and sensitive Matthew Smith as the conflicted, damaged Jack.
Graham, a film and TV writer who began his playwriting career at the Philadelphia Festival Theatre for New Plays in 1984, notably won Chicago’s Jefferson Award for “The Outgoing Tide.” The Guild winningly charts the play’s emotional course built on the pain of letting go.

“The Outgoing Tide” continues through Oct. 23 at the Dayton Theatre Guild, 430 Wayne Ave., Dayton. Performances are Saturday at 5 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m. Tickets are $19 for adults, $17 for seniors, and $12 for students. For tickets or more information, call (937) 278-5993 or visit www.daytontheatreguild.org

Old Bank Becomes A Jazzy Joint in Miamisburg

October 22, 2016 By Nikki Nett

What do you get when you cross a history-filled but empty, old school bank with a vision for the future with a nod to the hey day of the jazz age?

The Blue Note Bistro and Lounge at 23 E. Ccntral Ave. in Downtown Miamisburg.

Owner Julie Delph, who you may know as the owner of Miami Valley Sports Bar, wasn’t content to just remodel that south suburb staple. She took on the task of creating a new business in historic downtown Miamisburg. Armed with an amazing shell of a building and a lot of ideas, Blue Note was born.

With a focus on live music and a jazzy ambiance, Julie + crew took on the detail enriched project of creating a vibe unlike any other in the Dayton area. Dim lights, cool tones and a lot of chill creates a feeling of stepping way back in time the second you walk in the door.

With sustainability being in the forefront of design decisions, you’ll be delighted to hear the back story of some of the permanent fixtures. The marble teller stations used as partitions, the wine cellar that was the actual safe, the antique pieces of furniture you find in the “speakeasy”, and all the way down to the brass light switches in the board room that has been buried under layers of paint for decades, each and every piece was well thought out to create a unique experience for customers in 2016 and beyond.

Ok, so it looks amazing, we all agree, but what about the food & service?

Let’s cut to the chase here, the food is ridiculous. I mean ridiculous as in “I could eat here every day”, *that* kind of ridiculous. Entrees are solid, drinks are well made and happily served. Apps are a treat- yes, you really DO want your Caprese Salad fried, you do, I promise.

If you have even a fraction of a sweet tooth, order light to save room for dessert. The truffles. THE DANG TRUFFLES!!! Seriously people, get the super-rich chocolatey decadence that are the Blue Note Truffles. No real words, just nom nom nom. Blue Note Bistro has the market cornered on desserts, thanks to pastry chef and general manager, Gene Bowling. If you have even the slightest enjoyment of cheesecake on any level, get it. Get it right now. You won’t be disappointed. The last one I had was a banana-strawberry concoction that I can’t fully describe but was amazing.

Their brunch is my new favorite, hands down, but to be brutally honest, I don’t want to tell you too much because I enjoy getting in quickly.

Ok, fine. First and foremost, reservations are appreciated. It’s a small business and we all want to set them up for success, so let’s just let them know in advance if we’re bringing a group. If you can agree to that, I’ll tell you about the good stuff.

Did we agree? Great!

YOU GUYS!!! BRUNCH IS THE BEST! It’s no real secret that brunch is the best meal of the week, but we’re going to move past that obvious fact for the purpose of this story.

Blood Orange Mimosas – amazing
Bloody Mary’s (extra spicy) – amazing
Their coffee (some crazy special blend, percolated the old fashioned way) – amazing
Eggs Benedict Oscar with asparagus – amazing
Quiche & Omelet of the day – yep, amazing
Biscuits & Gravy – I don’t know what the hell is in that gravy, but it’s legit the best I’ve had (though I do plan to do a Miamisburg side-by-side with Koffee Kup at a later date for confirmation)

But let’s talk about the chicken & waffles for a second. Yes, it’s trendy. Yes it’s popping up on a lot of menus lately. Yes, I know all of these things. But Blue Note is serving theirs with smoked chicken. You might not think it makes a difference but, wow. There’s this combination of the smokey & sweet that’s just… All together now… AMAZING.

I don’t even feel the slightest bit bothered by the amount of times I’ve used the word “amazing” here. Not even a little bit. It’s worthy. So worthy.

The upstairs parlor.

Here’s the deal, I’ve been there a few times now and I plan to be there regularly in the future. It’s my new spot. While I understand that it may be a bit off the beaten path, it’s worth checking out. It only takes one time. Their service has been on point every time, their food & drink is top tier, the music is unlike the norm, and the general coolness of the joint can’t be matched.

I am cordially inviting you to the coolest place to hit the Miami Valley recently. Come down to the Burg and experience this little gem…

… But don’t all come at once, because I’ll elbow you for a seat at the bar (in the nicest way possible, obviously).

Blue Notes Hours

Mon 8:00pm-1:00am – Blues Night
Tue 5:00pm-11:00pm
Wed 5:00pm-11:00pm
Thu 5:00pm-11:00pm
Fri 5:00pm-1:00am
Sat 5:00pm-1:00am
Sun 11:00am-4:00pm

‘Jersey Boys’ Review – Victoria Theatre Association – Hearty Hitmakers

October 21, 2016 By Russell Florence, Jr.

The terrific national tour of the 2006 Tony Award-winning musical “Jersey Boys” opens the Victoria Theatre Association’s 2016-2017 Premier Health Broadway Series at the Schuster Center.

(left to right) Keith Hines as Nick Massi, Aaron De Jesus as Frankie Valli, Drew Seeley as Bob Gaudio, and Matthew Dailey as Tommy DeVito star as the “Jersey Boys” slated through Oct. 23 at the Schuster Center courtesy of the Victoria Theatre Association’s Premier Health Broadway Series.

Humorous, poignant and super cool, “Jersey Boys” takes an engaging look at the highs and lows surrounding iconic hitmakers Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. The blue-collar troupe, consisting of Valli, Bob Gaudio, Nick Massi, and Tommy DeVito, took the world by storm selling 175 million records throughout the 1960s and 1970s, but it wasn’t an easy journey. DeVito’s massive debts threw the group into a tailspin. The professional chemistry and pivotal collaborative deal between Valli and Gaudio bothered Massi and infuriated DeVito. Instead of merely filling the show with as many hits as possible (the downfall of many jukebox musicals), librettists Marshall Brickman and Rick Elise (“The Addams Family”) astutely realize how dramatic these revelations can be in order to fuel the plot. Topics of love, loss, adultery, family, drugs, and prison also effectively broaden the tale’s scope. In many ways, “Jersey Boys” can be perceived as the male kindred spirit of “Dreamgirls,” an equally vivid and relatable account of a tight-knit music group trying to succeed at all costs in the face of great adversity and infighting.
Briskly directed by Des McAnuff with appealingly masculine choreography by Sergio Trujillo, the production is skillfully led by Aaron De Jesus (Valli), Cory Jeacoma (Gaudio), Matthew Dailey (DeVito), and Keith Hines (Massi). De Jesus, one of the best triple threats to portray Valli, brings his superb falsetto to the forefront in such fantastic performance numbers as “Sherry,” “Walk Like a Man,” and “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” but also displays great tenderness in more moving songs as “My Eyes Adored You” and “Fallen Angel.” The immensely charming Jeacoma expertly conveys Gaudio’s intellectual sensibilities and artistic proficiency. A wonderfully understated Keith Hines shines as the introverted Massi. Matthew Dailey brings authoritative command and smug complacency to the hot-tempered, jealous DeVito. His bond with De Jesus is especially strong considering DeVito took Valli under his wing as a father figure. Enjoyable featured portrayals are offered by Barry Anderson as the flamboyant songwriter/producer Bob Crewe, Kristen Paulicelli as Frankie’s wife Mary Delgado, Leslie Rochette as Frankie and Mary’s daughter Francine, and Jessie Wildman as reporter Lorraine.
Don’t miss this highly entertaining showcase returning to Dayton for the first time since 2012. Oh, what a night indeed.

“Jersey Boys” continues through Oct. 23 at the Schuster Center, Second and Main Streets, Dayton. Performances are Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m., and Sunday at 2 and 7:30 p.m. The production is performed in 2 hours and 40 minutes with one 15-minute intermission. Tickets are $30-$107. For tickets or more information, call Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630 or visit www.ticketcenterstage.com. Patrons are advised the show contains adult language.

New Candle Shop Opens Downtown

October 21, 2016 By Dayton Most Metro

The newest Pop-Up Shop, part of an initiative to fill downtown storefronts called Activated Spaces opened today! Starred by Tamika, located at 37 S. St. Clair in St. Clair Lofts is a candle shop featuring candle workshops and other events. Specials throughout the day include free Starred tote bags to the first 20 customers, and anyone who registers private group candle-making sessions in advance will receive a grand opening discount.

The new shop is a part of the eleventh phase of the Pop-Up Project. Additional pop-up shops are in lease negotiations and will be announced later. “We applied for the pop-up shop project because our business was growing and we needed to expand out of our home,” said co-owner Tamika Doakes. “We love how eclectic the downtown scene is and we knew we wanted to open a store here.” Starred by Tamika is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Private candle-making sessions are available after regular hours by appointment only.

This Activated Spaces program builds on the success of the first ten phases of the Pop-Up Project, launched in November 2011. The Pop-Up Project provides potential business owners the opportunity for shorter leases at below-market rates as a way for them to jump-start their businesses and contribute to the vibrancy of downtown Dayton. Since it was started, the project has launched 22 shops (15 of which stayed open past their initial pop-up phase), filled more than 20,000 square feet of previously vacant space and created 48 jobs. “Starred by Tamika brings not only a retail shop to Downtown Dayton, but also a fun new type of DIY workshop experience,” said Pop-Up project leader, Melanie Wagner. “We are excited to welcome Starred to downtown!”

Pop-Up Shops from the previous phases of the project include Beaute Box, 116 W. Fifth St.; Vintage Barber Shop, 110 W. Fifth St.; Peace on Fifth, 234 Dutoit St.; two stores at 16 Brown St., Spice Paradise and Hicks’ Barber Shop & Shave Parlor; Twist Cupcakery, 25 S. St. Clair St.; Fronana, 27 W. First Street; Baker Salvage, 31 S. St. Clair St.; Mitosis, 14 W. First St; and Soccer Shots, 39 S. St. Clair St.

The Pop-Up Project is driven by volunteers from the young professional organizations UpDayton and Generation Dayton with support from the Downtown Dayton Partnership, the City of Dayton, the City of Dayton Neighborhood Mini-Grant program and community volunteers. Activated Spaces is part of the Greater Downtown Dayton Plan, a strategic blueprint for the future of downtown.

A New Way To Find Volunteer Opportunities

October 21, 2016 By Lisa Grigsby

Volunteering gives you the chance to vote every day about the kind of community and world you want to live in. It gives you the opportunity to be apart of something bigger than yourself and use your civic responsibility for the greater good

Volunteering lets you meet people from all walks of life. It gives you the chance to form real relationships that can have a lasting impact on your life. You could meet your new best friend, future business partner or have a conversation that sparks a real change in your life.

Did you know volunteering is also an excellent way to boost your career prospects? It helps you create a positive impression, makes you more innovative, creative and gives you a range of useful skills. It’s not just us that believe this, recruiters do too!

In the Miami Valley there are hundreds of events that thrive with the help of volunteers. So we’ve launched a Facebook Volunteer Group that is set up to bring volunteers and events/organizations that need the help together! Joining the group will just allow you to find out about opportunities all over town, but does not obligate you to anything, so go ahead, join our group!

Dracula Rises Again

October 21, 2016 By Dayton Most Metro

Sinclair Theatre presents a wickedly theatrical picture of Bram Stoker’s famous vampire, DRACULA, October 21-29, in Blair Hall Theatre, building 2, on Sinclair’s Downtown Dayton campus.

This version, written by Steven Dietz, is directed by Kimberly Borst who wanted to create a production that stayed true to the novel. “The legend of Dracula has been so diluted and mocked throughout the last one hundred years, that there is very little fear left in the original story. My goal was to evoke the same fear and horror that readers felt when the book was first published in 1897,” says Borst.

Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 8 pm, one Sunday matinee at 2 pm on October 23, and a Throwback Thursday performance at 7 pm on Oct. 27^th. Sunday and Thursday performances are American Sign Language interpreted.

Adult tickets cost $18 with student/senior tickets at $15. All Throwback Thursday tickets cost $10. Tickets are available online NOW at www.sinclair.edu/tickets. Like Sinclair Theatre on Facebook and watch for upcoming Wicked Wednesday promotions!

“Not for the sensitive or squeamish audience, this production contains a lot of gore, blood, and erotic scenes aimed to shock, while telling the story that Bram Stoker told in the pages of his novel,” Borst continued.

A “blood and special effects” artist, Kaoime E. Malloy, has been added to the technical staff as well as a fight choreographer Gary Minyard and flying director William G.L. Courson (Sinclair alumnus).

Cast includes: Leo Santucci as Dracula, Maximillian Santucci as Van Helsing with Sydney Baker, Thomas Puckett, Jonathan Kelly, Tristan Rivera, Gabriella Neuerer, Nick Baver, André Tomlinson, Chelsey Hall and Erin McGee.

Award-winning designers include: Chris Harmon (scenic), Kathleen Hotmer (costumes), Dan Brunk (lighting) and Sarah Gomes (props). Student designers include Brooke Watson (wigs & makeup) and Isaiah Parnell (sound).

#SpreadtheGood Returns Oct 22nd

October 20, 2016 By Dayton Most Metro

#SpreadtheGood, The Dayton Foundation’s social media campaign that celebrates and builds awareness of the good work happening through nonprofits in the region, is back for a third year and set to begin on October 22 (Making a Difference Day).

Between October 22 and November 18, individuals and nonprofit organizations are encouraged to show how they #SpreadtheGood by taking action photos of good deeds happening in the community and uploading them to the Foundation’s 2016 #SpreadtheGood online photo gallery. Each photo will enter the featured nonprofit into an opportunity to receive one of three #SpreadtheGood grants ranging from $500 to $2,000.

Beginning November 21, individuals may vote up to ten times per day for their favorite local nonprofit (from the photos submitted) via the #SpreadtheGood online photo gallery. The #SpreadtheGood grants (first place – $2,000 grant; second place – $1,000 grant; or third place – $500 grant) will be awarded to the three organizations that receive the most votes on their photos by #GivingTuesday, November 29.

“The Dayton Foundation strives to partner with and support local nonprofit organizations to help lift and grow their missions. #SpreadtheGood is a great way to highlight the efforts and stories of these organizations and their volunteers, as well as have the community show its support for these causes,” said Barbra Stonerock, vice president of Community Engagement for The Dayton Foundation.

Also this year, the Foundation will follow six community advocates as they highlight the good in our region. The 2016 #SpreadtheGood Ambassadors will share photos and videos of the missions that they support in the areas of education, art, human services, health, environment and community benefit as they encourage others to #SpreadtheGood in Greater Dayton. Stories of each #SpreadtheGood Ambassador will be featured weekly on the Foundation’s Facebook page throughout the campaign. Individuals can get to know them and read their stories by following The Dayton Foundation on Facebook or using the hashtag #storiesofgood2016.

The 2015 #SpreadtheGood campaign collected 224 action photos, entering 40 Dayton-area nonprofits into the Challenge portion of the campaign. A total of $3,500 was awarded to three local nonprofits organizations: First Place ($2,000): The Mosaic Institute of Greater Dayton, Second Place ($1,000): SICSA (The Society for the Improvement of Conditions for Stray Animals), and Third Place ($500): Therapeutic Riding Institute. See how last year’s #SpreadtheGood grants helped these organizations continue to #Spreadthegood.

To participate in this year’s #SpreadtheGood campaign, visit daytonfoundation.org/spreadthegood.html.

Empty Bowls Fundraiser Benefits House of Bread

October 20, 2016 By Dayton Most Metro

Tonight’s 7th Annual Empty Bowls Fundraiser offers a beautiful array of bowls handmade by local Girl Scout Troop #33101 at K12/TEJAS. Delicious soups, warm breads, and desserts from area restaurants await. For a minimum $25 donation, you will be able to select the bowl of your choice and have it filled with whatever soup you desire. The bowl is yours to keep!! The event runs from 5-7pm at UD’s River Campus Location on Patterson Boulevard across from Dayton History (the old NCR).

You may pre-register at the link included or bring cash, check or credit card to the event. Pre-registrations on the website will get you a free raffle ticket and will have a speedy check-in upon arrival. Raffle tickets are $5 each or 5 for $20 and raffle prizes include restaurant gift certificates or tickets to the upcoming Beerry Christmas Dayton holiday beer tasting, that also benefits House of Bread.

Soups will be provided by Chef George Sideras, Nestle, and area restaurants:

Christopher’s
Texas Beef & Cattle Co.
Lily’s Bistro
Corner Kitchen
Mamma DiSalvo’s
Scratch Foods
Coco’s Bistro
Jimmie’s Ladder 11
Amber Rose
Meadowlark
Mack’s Tavern
Mudlick Tap House
Brixx Ice Company
Dayton Racquet Club

Soup selections include vegetarian, vegan and Gluten Free options. Bread will be provided by Evans Bakery and Texas Roadhouse, desserts by Ashley’s Pastry Shop, and soda by the 7 Up Bottling Company. Many thanks to our sponsor Paramount Advantage.

100% of the proceeds from this event go to the House of Bread, a non-profit community kitchen located in Dayton. We serve a hot, nutritious, lunchtime meal to anyone in need 7 days a week. In addition, they offer personal hygiene and warm wear items, as well as referrals to other social services. Help and hope are always on the menu at the House of Bread.

Human 2.0 Fest debuts in Dayton

October 20, 2016 By Dayton Most Metro

screen-shot-2016-10-19-at-9-44-59-pm Human 2.0 festival is a festival that offers FREE full-fledged Yoga, Meditation, Tai Chi, Qi Gong classes, all in a natural, tranquil setting. The stage is set with engaging speakers, and a multitude of activities aimed at exploring the various facets of the mind-body-self connection.

Local food trucks will be serving delicious food, and the kids will enjoy our multitude of activities such as face-painting booths and a 7-foot tall blank canvas!

This festival is a space for you to explore the ways and means to create your OWN unique reality. We would like to invite you to come and set the tone.

Admission and Activities are Free!

Saturday October 22nd from 10am – 6pm

Address: 3153 Lantz Rd Beavercreek OH

Engaging Speakers
Full length Yoga, Tai chi, Qi Gong classes (Bring your Own Mat!)
Fun kids activities, families welcome
Physical fitness challenges for fitness buffs
Chess challenge for those looking to exercise their minds!
Delicious food trucks and various holistic practitioners
Meditation for Humanity – Spread the peace and love!

Last Yellow Cab Food Truck Rally of the 2016 Season

October 19, 2016 By LIbby Ballengee

Don’t miss out on the last Yellow Cab Food Truck Rally of 2016 on Oct 21st from 5-10pm! They have had a great season of awesome food trucks but if you miss this one you’ll have to wait until March to enjoy another beautiful Friday evening at The “Old” Yellow Cab building. They are partnering with Night Market to bring delicious produce and other local items to every food truck rally this season.

The recently updated Yellow Cab facility will be full of gourmet street food, live music and craft beer. Since this is so close to Halloween they are encouraging attendees to come dress in their costume! We’ll be hosting a costume contest at 8pm and the winner will take home $50 in Yellow Cab Food Truck Rally gift certificates!

They are excited to host Death By Curry for the first time in addition to returning favorites El Meson, The Drunken Waffle, Greek Street Food Truck, Cupzilla-Korean BBQ, Thai1On, and Ramen Rickshaw. Desserts by Ginniebug Creations, Fronana, Flying Santucci Bros and Gourmet Cotton Candy.

Live music being provided by the local original rock’a’billy band, Cherry Lee & The Hot Rod Hounds. They are also hosting an art show at the last rally of the season! Check out “The Astronauts Return Home: Discoveries From The Final Frontier”. It will include work by Zach Goetz, Heather Sandy, Matt Szozda, and Christine Zuercher.

Free Entry! Address: 700 E. 4th St. Dayton, OH. October 21, 2016. 5-10pm

Fall at Hidden Valley Fruit Farm

October 19, 2016 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Down south on Route 48, is a great little place

Hay! Hay! Hay! Food, fun and fall flavors await you at The Hidden Valley Fruit Farm. Just a few minutes south of Centerville on State Rout 48, Hidden Valley is the perfect place for a family Food Adventure, especially for little ones. You can find pies to petting zoos, and scarecrows to strawberry jams. They even have hay rides, pick your own apples and more. We have great memories of coming here as kids. This farm store is a perfect place to spend time with your loved onesand experience the sights and sniffs of the Fall season.

HERE’S THE SKINNY on HIDDEN VALLEY FRUIT FARM:

Caramel Apples, anyone ?

—For over 60 years, located at 5474 OH-48, Lebanon, OH 45036 just a few minutes south of Centerville.

—10am – 6pm Sunday through Wednesday and 10am – 7pm Thursday – Saturday

— Fun attractions include: Hayrides, pick your our pumpkin, pick your own apples, a gift shop in the 150 year old barn, an ice cream shop, and a petting zoo. There is “so much room for activities”

Pumpkins Galore

— The Country Store is in a 150 year old barn. It features a gift shop, a bakery, a produce area, grocery items and coffees.

— The small restaurant is open Wednesday to Saturday, and features an $8.99 lunch for a pulled-pork sandwich and two sides – choices are potato salad, corn-on-the-cob, or baked beans.

— They grow 38 different kind of apple varieties.

There are literally hundreds of choices, local squash, fruit jams and so much more. Over the years we have tried dozens of items. Here are some of our favorites that have lasted from the 1970’s. Without further delay.. we present our MUST EATS !

MUST EATS at HIDDEN VALLEY FRUIT FARM:

Fritters, Cider and Apples….

— GALLON OF APPLE CIDER: Hidden Valley Fruit Farm is one of the only farms in Ohio that still prepares its apple cider the old-fashioned way. Not from concentrate, their cider is pressed from select apples out of their own orchards. The cider goes from orchard, to press, to bottle, then straight to the refrigerators. Their is no homogenization, no pasteurization, and no additives or preservatives. The best cider ever in the Big Ragu’s opinion. Maybe it is the nostalgia, but he has never tasted anything like it.

— PUMPKIN DONUTS: Small, sugary and delicious. We have been enjoying these for decades. Get a few extra, they seem to disappear into hungry mouths on the way to the car.

Local Honey

— GALA APPLES: OK, so they have 38 different kinds of apples… One of our favorites is the sweet Gala apples grown on site. There are so many others, some good for baking, others good for eating. All of them local, right off the trees and delicious.

— APPLE FRITTERS: These are huge. They are sweet, glazed and delicious. So sweet in fact, that they are guaranteed to attract a bee or two if eaten outside. Made fresh, they melt in your mouth and go great with a glass of milk.

— LOCAL NATURAL RAW HONEY: There are so many uses for this wonderful product. From a drop in your tea, to drizzling over cereal, this honey is fantastic. On toast or a spoonful from the jar, it is a wonderful treat. Did you know that consuming local honey helps guard against allergies to local plants? It is true with all natural honeys and the area they are produced.

38 varities of apples

— CARAMEL APPLES WITH NUTS: Nice sized apples dipped in a thick caramel coating, with the bottom half rolled in chopped peanuts. The result is everything you could ever want from a salty and sweet treat. Sinful? You bet… If you want to go big, they have a “Thriller” apple which is the deluxe chocolate added treat. Although they are great, we stay old school here and prefer the original.

Honorable Mention: The Homemade Fudge. All flavors. It used to cause family squabbles in the car on our way back from Kings Island..

Gala apples – sweet things grown on their orchard

The Hidden Valley Fruit Farm is a throwback Food Adventure and a tribute to the old days. Rural America eats and treats, and simple pleasures like a fall Hay ride.

Find the peace and calm of a brisk Autumn day, and visit this local treasure. There is still time to grab a pumpkin before Halloween, and this is the perfect spot to scope one out. See you near the corn stalks, inside the barn….

Are you a Dayton Foodie? Then follow us on Facebook by clicking here, and find your paradise. The Big Ragu, Chef House and Hungry Jax are just a click away.

Please enjoy the sights of Fall at Hidden Valley Fruit Farm by browsing our photos below.

Pumpkins out front

Vintage Tractor

Chicken coop on site

Inside the Country Store

Butterfinger fudge – have you ever heard something so sweet?

Outside looking around

Stalk to you later

Activities and prices

No bake pies….

Indian Corn

Candy table

Pork in a can

Fresh from the orchard out back

Petting Farm and Playground

Scarecrows and Pumpkins out front

Apples – just picked….

WSU Hosts Free Shakespeare Conference

October 19, 2016 By Dayton Most Metro

“All the world’s a stage.” So writes William Shakespeare in his play “As You Like It.”

On the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death, Wright State University will become the stage for the latest scholarship on the famous English playwright as part of the 40th annual Ohio Valley Shakespeare Conference. Last year it was hosted by Bowling Green State University; the previous year by The Ohio State University.

The “Encountering Shakespeare” conference Oct. 20-22 will include plenaries on literature and culture, teaching workshops and an array of artistic expressions engaging Shakespeare in musical and dramatic performances. It is designed to encourage educators to integrate performance teaching, digital media resources and reflective analysis of gender, race and class in Shakespeare’s plays.

The presentations and workshops are free and open to the public. The conference runs throughout all three days in the Student Union from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. A schedule of talks and workshops are posted at wright.edu/shakespeare

“I look forward to the intellectual energy and artistic pedagogy that comes from the speakers and from the Stratford actors’ interactive material,” said conference organizer Carol Mejia LaPerle, associate professor of early modern literature at Wright State.

Wright State won a highly competitive, $5,000 Ohio Humanities award to host this year’s conference and to offer a deeply discounted rate for K-12 schoolteachers to attend all of the events, including the much-anticipated Shakespeare Gala. The gala will take place from 5 to 9:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 21, at the university’s Creative Arts Center.

Carol Mejia LaPerle, associate professor of early modern literature, is organizing the “Encountering Shakespeare” conference at Wright State on Oct. 20-22. (Photo by Erin Pence)

The plenary session speakers include Shakespeare scholars Curtis Perry and Ayanna Thompson, whose emphasis on American racial politics is expected to underscore Shakespeare’s relevance in a diverse culture. Perry will outline the classical intertexts essential to understanding Shakespeare’s plays and provide historical context to Shakespeare’s humanist education.

The teaching workshops are run by actors from the Canada’s Stratford Theatre Festival, an internationally recognized repertory group from Stratford, Ontario, known for its production of Shakespearean plays. And the conference will be capped off with a reading by The American Shakespeare Collective from Michigan.

“There is something for everybody,” said Mejia LaPerle. “Shakespearean drama is some of the most compacted in terms of linguistic complexity, but it also provides an unusual enjoyment in figuring out something alien. If you can read Shakespeare, you can read anything. It taps into a skillset that is even more crucial today. That’s an important 21st century skill — the ability to comprehend and make connections across complex, varied linguistic expressions.”

For more information on the conference and gala, visit wright.edu/shakespeare.

This post written by Jim Hannah and originally appeared on the Wright State Newsroom site.

Wanna Hear Some Great Campfire Stories?

October 18, 2016 By Dayton Most Metro

Dayton’s Story Slam event returns to the stage at Wiley’s Comedy Joint on Wednesday the 19th this month. In the spirit of The Moth, Dayton has its own monthly storytelling stage. Presented by Dayton Most Metro and produced by Shelly Hulce and Bryan Suddith the event welcomes anyone with a story to tell.

The rules ares few and make the storytelling experience accessible for anyone who enjoys hearing a good storing or telling one. The Moth rules are simple. Stories are told in the first person, are always true, are about 5-6 minutes in length, are unscripted (no notes) and are told on the theme of the night.

This month’s theme for Story Slamm Dayton is Campfire Stories. The event is held at Wiley’s Comedy Joint at 101 Pine Street in Dayton’s Oregon District. $5 door charge and a cash bar is available. Storytellers simply put their name in the hat and 10 storytellers are selected at random for a spot on stage.

Audience members judge the stories and a winner is chosen to take home a $50 cash prize. Visit Facebook.com/StorySlammDayton to see videos from last month and find tips to craft your story.

Can’t make this one, then be sure and add November 16th to your calendar when the theme will be Stories of Endurance. Its a nod to the end of the elections.

Start Downtown

October 18, 2016 By Dayton Most Metro

At the heart of Dayton’s comeback are talented people taking risks and shaping our city. You can find their stories in locally-run coffee shops, coworking spaces, entrepreneurial hubs, artist spaces, brewery tasting rooms, and the kitchens of local restaurants. A groundswell of entrepreneurial and creative activity is changing Dayton.

Earlier this year, almost 100 people came together to begin an initiative to help more enterprising Daytonians start downtown. This initiative promotes the people and their stories who are changing Dayton and why they are launching their endeavors here. One of several “Start Downtown” volunteer-led programs, the “I Started Downtown” video series interviews a diverse group of business owners who invested in downtown Dayton.

This is the first in the series, featuring the “I Started Downtown” story of Juanita-Michelle Darden-Jones, the proprietress of Third Perk Coffeehouse and Wine Bar at 42 W. Fifth St. in downtown Dayton.

The Downtown Dayton Partnership are also launching several new projects as our contribution to the cause:

Pop-up Coworking:
Beginning in November, we are teaming with several partners to host monthly pop-up coworking events at interesting and fun locations around downtown. Our first one is at Dayton Beer Company on November 3rd – click here for more info.

Dayton Kiva Team:
We are organizing a Dayton-based Kiva network to connect local funders to local small businesses that need support. Kiva is like crowd-funding, but instead it’s crowd-lending – after your loan is repaid, you can use the same dollars to support another small business. Sign up for Kiva and join the Dayton network by clicking here.

Innovation / Improvement Challenge:
Volunteers are launching a new challenge for startups and established businesses around solving problems and creating significant returns on investment at the established company. The first cohort will launch in early 2017 – more to come.

Dayton Collaboration Network:
Interested in providing discounted business services to startups to help them grow? We are organizing the Dayton Collaboration Network to better support startups in downtown Dayton. To join or learn more about the network, contact Scott Murphy at [email protected] or (937) 224-1518 ext 223.

To learn more about the Start Downtown programs and how to get involved, visit http://bit.ly/StartDowntown

The Wait is Over- Old Scratch Pizza Opens Tuesday!

October 17, 2016 By Lisa Grigsby

We’ve all been watching the transformation of what was once an old ugly paint store on Patterson across from Grismer Tire become transformed into Old Scratch Pizza.

Stephanie Soller shared that her husband Eric drove by the building every day for years from his job at Hobart on his way home to their home in Oakwood and about a year ago they decided that it would be the home of their beer and pizza joint. The couple, who meet in culinary school had always dreamed of opening a restaurant together.

The 6000 sq foot restaurant has a casual feel, where you’ll order at the counter, then head into the dining room, which seats about 150 at communal tables or at one of the 20 seats at the bar. There’s even a private room that will seat about 30. Weather permitting the patio adds another 40 seats.

The pizza they’ll be serving is Neopolitan-style pizza – a very thin crispy crust, cooked quickly in two wood-fired pizza ovens that at 800-1000 degrees will cook a pizza in just a couple of minutes. Soller says getting used to the ovens has been a big learning experience for him and the staff. A Chicago pizza expert Gianni Gallucci of Associazione Pizzaiuoli Napoletani (aka the Pizza Police) was brought in to assist in training them all on the style of pizza they will be producing.

Stephanie Soller

MostMetro.com was lucky enough to get an invite to one of the practice dining sessions, where we were greeted with great hospitality by Stephanie, who seemed very cool and collected, a great sign for management of the new eatery. She gave us a quick overview of the menu and it was hard to decide where to begin. Vegetarian {V}, Vegan{VG} and Gluten Free{GF} items were clearly marked, a welcome detail for many. The pizza’s are about 11 inches around- a big meal for one or perfect to share. We tried the meatballs- and they were quite tasty- can’t wait to go back for a meatball sandwich.

The Pizza Menu is divided into REDS:

WHITES:

Jeff Murphy Brings Liza, Judy & Barbara To The Stage

‘Dracula’ and ‘Outgoing Tide’ Reviews – Sinclair Community College and Dayton Theatre Guild – Potent Productions

Old Bank Becomes A Jazzy Joint in Miamisburg

‘Jersey Boys’ Review – Victoria Theatre Association – Hearty Hitmakers

New Candle Shop Opens Downtown

A New Way To Find Volunteer Opportunities

Dracula Rises Again

#SpreadtheGood Returns Oct 22nd

Empty Bowls Fundraiser Benefits House of Bread

Human 2.0 Fest debuts in Dayton

Admission and Activities are Free!

Saturday October 22nd from 10am – 6pm

Address: 3153 Lantz Rd Beavercreek OH

Last Yellow Cab Food Truck Rally of the 2016 Season

Fall at Hidden Valley Fruit Farm

WSU Hosts Free Shakespeare Conference

Wanna Hear Some Great Campfire Stories?

Start Downtown

The Wait is Over- Old Scratch Pizza Opens Tuesday!

Trivia Night at Alematic

Fun Trivia! Prizes!

Dayton Pride 2026

Dayton Poetry Slam