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Archives for December 2016

Start Your Year With An Urban Yoga Movement

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The Urban Yoga Movement is a retreat designed to bring yogis and wellness enthusiasts together for a celebration of community, learning and peace.  The event will take place all day on Sat, Jan 7th in downtown Dayton.  Guests will enjoy a day of active and educational sessions focused on a variety of disciplines of yoga, meditation and wellness of the mind, body and soul. Active sessions will include power and restorative options while educational sessions will cover yoga lifestyle, adventure and meditation.  Breakfast and lunch will be provided by Whole Foods

The event has a new home this year! It is their goal to use a space that feels a little undergound and demonstrates the transformation possible in Downtown Dayton. Event Co-Producer Tom Helbig says, “we couldn’t be more excited about hosting our event in a large warehouse building located in the Atta Girl Arts & Gardens Complex on Third Street in downtown Dayton, owned by local artist Hamilton Dixon, and local business owner and yoga community member Carli Dixon.” The Atta Girl complex is home to Hamilton Dixon Studios, Bloombeads flower petal jewelry, Front Street Cycle and Third Street Event space.

Registration fee will include access to all classes, breakfast, lunch, social, expo and Urban Yoga Movement shirt courtesy of Wagner Subaru.

Register on line. While early bird discounts have already expired, if you register by Jan 3rd it’s just $65.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Below is some background information on some of the instructors that will be a part of the day:

9am Opening Session Laughter Yoga

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The Laughter yoga session will begin with a combination of deep breathing and stretching exercises, progressing to laughter exercises, and then concludes with a laughter meditation. These exercises oxygenate your body and brain helping us to feel more healthy and energetic. It is a complete well-being workout. Life is better when you are laughing ?

Stacy Lynn is an internationally-trained Yoga Therapist and E-RYT, Exercise Physiologist, and Holistic Health Educator. She has been serving the Dayton area with Mind/Body healing practices for over 15 years. Finding significant personal healing through yoga practices, her passion is to make the transformative and empowering practices of classical yoga available and accessible to all individuals. Stacy is the owner of Enlightened Fitness, LLC and founder of Empower Yoga Project located in Centerville.

At 10:15am Ranjani will be teaching followed by an 11:30am lecture on the Ramayana!
Ranjani Powers has been practicing yoga ever since she could move…one could say her samskaras run deep.

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One of Ranjani’s earliest memories is stretching and contorting herself into what she calls “juicy” postures (which, at that time, she thought she invented) but she later (to her chagrin) found out that they were in fact traditional yoga asanas (another memory is retreating to a dark and quiet corner of her parents’ house to practice likhita japa).


In the summer of 1998, Ranjani received the blessings and instruction to teach yoga from Sri Swami Satchidananda and has since devoted her entire life to teaching yoga.

Ranjani opened one of the first ever yoga studios in the Dayton area (Down Dog Yoga in Tipp City, Ohio in 1999), as well as the largest yoga studio in Dayton, perhaps even Ohio (Sakti Yoga in Old North Dayton, Ohio in 2005), so you could say she has been around the yoga block a couple of times. Regarded by many to be the teacher of yoga teachers, Ranjani Powers was the first E-RYT 500 in the area, and the first to offer a Yoga Alliance registered yoga teacher’s training in Dayton, Ohio. Many of her students are now established yoga teachers in Dayton and around the country.


True to her name, Ranjani Powers loves dishing out powerful classes that leave students stretched, sweaty, and sublimely empowered! Her classes will work your body, and expand your mind – she will challenge you physically and mentally, then allow your spirit to soar blissfully beyond in one of her legendary relaxation sessions.

 

11:30am  Ashtanga Yoga with Ross Stambaugh
Ross enjoys sharing the tradition of Ashtanga Yoga as taught by Sri. K. Pattabhi Jois, and the KPJAYI. The asana (postures), is one thing, but sharing and taking part in the ongoing lineage, philosophy, myths, and stories add so much more to it all.

Yoga provides the tool to uncover misconceptions we have about ourselves. We are much stronger and more capable than we give ourselves credit for. Ashtanga Yoga has a way of grounding you. Ross says he needs the grounding effect it has on him every single day.

The Power of Authenticity
Ross makes annual trips to Mysore, India to practice at The K.P. J. Ashtanga Yoga Institute, (the location where Ashtanga was started) and study yoga philosophy with Dr. Jayashree and Professor Narasimha. These trips last months and allow him to ground himself as well as submerse himself in yoga and focus on his practice.
Yoga has the great ability to allow the practitioners to show their best side when presented with challenges.

 

Flow Class at 4:14pm with Heather Feather 

Feather” was Heather’s nickname growing up and it suits her well.  Feathers inspire and that is just what Heather aspires to do for YOU!

Heather’s journey in health began after her father died from a rare neurological disease called Multiple Systems Atrophe in 1999. In the first month of her Freshman year at Lake Forest College her entire world shifted. A significant transformation began when Heather started practicing yoga and running to cope with the loss. Heather was on a destructive path during her teenage years and she chose to move in the direction of health which brought forth true healing and growth.

She has not turned back and wishes to bring the healing and transformational powers of a healthy lifestyle with a focus on yoga, exercise and healthy eating.

Heather teaches in a dynamic and firm, yet non-threatening way. She always brings something new to the table whether that be in a class atmosphere, bootcamp, private training/yoga or retreats. She brings a multifaceted approach to health & wellness with her in-depth knowledge of the yoga practice, exercise and diet. Heather is strongly intuitive and steps deeply into the present moment with you to give the best service possible. She almost always combines exercise and yoga in her offerings and sometimes even a healthy, delicious treat!

Heather is an ACE certified Personal Trainer, 500 hour trained Yoga Instructor, and Chef. She also has a professional certification in the Culinary Arts, an Associates degree in Pastry Arts and a certificate in dietetics. Additionally, Heather is a certified Spin Instructor, an Ironman finisher, marathon and ultramarathon runner, long-distance swimmer and triathlete.

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You can also enjoy an afternoon session at 4:15pm hearing tales from Tom Helbig‘s Journey to Happiness. Tom’s focus on adventure, knowing his authentic self, simplicity, building community and loving people has led to a more profound passion for life. Yoga and meditation has provided an incredible balance to his life of adventure. Three days after Urban Yoga Movement last year, Tom started his cycle across America from San Diego, CA to Key West, Florida to support Special Olympics. You just might hear a story or two from that journey filled with happiness.

Tom is the co-producer of Urban Yoga Movement and owner of a playful company called Tomfoolery Outdoors. Learn more about his lifestyle here.

GO W/ THE FLOW will present the closing session at UYM this year!

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Tori Reynolds discovered yoga while studying psychology at Wright State University. Compelled to learn more, she earned her 200 hour RYT certification in 2011 in Cincinnati, completed 500-hour certification with Live Love Teach in 2012, completed 100 hours of Rocket Yoga certification in 2015 and has studied with teachers including Doug Swenson, Tim Miller, Kino Macgregor, Tiffany Cruikshank, and Noah Maze, among many others. When not teaching around her hometown of Dayton, OH, Tori also travels with the GO W/ THE FLOW project she co-founded in early 2012. This collaboration between Tori and her partner Ben allows her to share her passion for the power of intentional breathing fueled by creative and inspired music internationally.


Michigan native and musical genius of GO W/ THE FLOW Ben Rivet is known for his roles as performer, producer, designer and yogi. With a reputation for collaboration and cross- promotion, it’s no surprise GO W/ THE FLOW combines these aspects. Driven by his passion to innovate, connect and share, Ben continues to perform under the name BJSR, cultivating and refining his unique style, and also participated in Practice Yoga’s teacher-training program where he earned 200-hour RYT certification in April 2012.

A Dayton Lesson for 2017

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Kim and Craig Jolly and their family

Here is a story you won’t soon forget.  This is Steve Milano aka The Big Ragu. Typically I write about local restaurants and local eats.  No Food Adventures today.  Today, instead we give you some food for thought.

While most people are making plans and new year’s promises, others are making very simple ones.  Their new year’s resolutions are to  continue the fight, to live, to survive.  This article is not only about a lifelong Dayton resident, it is about every person right now who is in a life and death battle with an illness.  It is a lesson for all of us to remember.

Craigs Cat Scan

Flashback 30 years ago, to August, 1987.   The Centerville football team locker room empties as the players trot down the gravel to the practice field.  It has been a long 8 months of weight lifting and conditioning. The original crowd in January of 100 perspective players has dwindled down to about 50.  The ones who are left are preparing for their first game.  One of those who persevered is a sophomore named Craig Jolly.  Craig was strong, and motivated.  Even then he was a fighter and a survivor in every sense of the word.  I know.  I was a senior playing offensive line too, and he was right there every practice, every step of the way.

New medicines and experimental treatments are a source of hope

Today, Craig has a family.  He has a local home with his wife Kim and two young daughters.  Unfortunately, Craig has something else.  He has a battle to fight.  But that is ok, because to his family, he is Superman.  On July 14th, 2016 Craig was diagnosed with a Grade 4 Glioblostoma tumor, the most deadly and aggressive form of brain cancer there is.  He was told then that the median life expectancy was 16 months. 

Ironically this being the holiday season, jolly is a word used quite often in songs, holiday movies and tv shows. Their whole life, they lived with this name, Jolly.  They are straining to hold onto that faith and their namesake.

His sister, Heather summed up the situation best on his DONATION PAGE:

Craigs sister Heather tries and comfort her brother’s pain in the hospital

Craig doesn’t live like he is dying. Craig lives like he is living.
And he always has. My brother has an enthusiasm for life, like I’ve never known. He effortlessly fills a room. He’s not just a piece of a part, he’s the whole show. He tells the jokes, and then he laughs at them too. And once you’ve heard his laugh you’ll remember it all your life. It bounces off walls and echoes down halls and it is unbelievably and undeniably infectious.

Craig isn’t just living, Craig is life.

Craig after a chemo treatment #oursuperman

He is the pulse of our family. The heartbeat of our home. And the first love of my life.
I have watched Craig fight, everyday these last 5 months. Everyday he fights. But he’s not just fighting cancer he’s fighting all the sadness and headache that comes with its demons.
That come with dying. But you’d never know.  If he gets down, he gets back up.
Every. Single. Day. He fights.
He fights for happiness, for love and for joy. He fights for laughing and smiling and living out loud. He fights for Kim and for Evan and for Anne.
And everyday he wins.
I will be in awe of his strength, determination, and optimism for the rest of my life. I will be devoted, admire and respect him, for the rest his.

 

Craig has decided not return to work. His wife Kim has taken an immediate indefinite leave of absence from her work to devote herself to his round the clock care.  They have spent money investigating countless studies, trials and equipment in pursuit of any glimpse of hope.  But it doesn’t matter.  Their commitment to each other is endless.  .

Craig’s sister Heather describes Kim and Craig’s interaction:

Kim and Craig Jolly

Kim’s look is one of unconditional, unwavering, endless love. She has been our rock. Craig’s is one of a man completely still smitten, 20 years later. I see gratitude in his embrace and the hardest part is, I see an apology in his eyes.
I’m sorry we didn’t get forever. I’m sorry you’ll raise our children alone.

A PLAN OF ATTACK:

Heather goes on to explain that in late November/early December, doctors learned that Craig’s tumor despite being cut out, despite being radiated, despite being starved with a ketogenic diet, despite being poisoned with chemotherapy, is back, and has very aggressively grown and spread throughout his brain.  But here’s the thing, you’d never know that either. Craig’s entire brain is swollen, shifted past midline, and infected with tumor. And yet he’s still just laughing, loving, living Craig. Is it sheer willpower? Or is it a miracle?

Endless tests, xrays and more

Surgery: Craig had decided to go forward on December 29th, with a very involved tenuous second craniotomy where they will remove all areas of tumor, a significant part of his brain and then inject a trial vaccine into the cavity to try to eradicate it.  Craig fully understood the risks and possible outcomes.  But you see, Craig is a fighter.  He wants to go down swinging.
He wants to live life… living, as his family says.
Craig knew that regardless of the outcome, the knowledge gained from this trial will eventually help others.

The family asked Craig the week of his diagnosis 5 months ago if his sister could make him a “Go Fund Me” page, knowing very well

Craig and his daughter

the catastrophic cost that come with terminal diagnosis’s. His pride just smiled, shook his head and declined.
“We’re okay he said, we don’t need it now.”
This time Heather didn’t ask him.   This time she is asking anyone to help.  He needs it now.
Heather wanted to raise money so Craig could enjoy these moments free of financial worry. So he can have some relief to spend time with his family stress free. So he can continue to spend his time living his life living, for all the days of his life.

Heather writes: “And I would be absolutely grateful beyond measure, if you would help me. #oursuperman”

 

UPDATE  DECEMBER 28th – THE POWER OF POSITIVITY, PERSEVERANCE and PRAYER:

The family has been holding onto hope this holiday season.  Again, Craig’s little sister writes on her Facebook page:

Superman and his sister Heather

“Hope has been a word that’s hard to get close to these days. Hope has an electric fence wrapped and entangled around it; you can only get shocked by it so many times before you stop trying to get near it. There’s been so many times along this journey that we’ve gotten too close to Hope only to be jolted, thrown back in the air, and dropped to the ground.

But that wasn’t today.  Today Hope knocked one out of the park.”

Craig explains why in his Caring Bridge Entry below.
#lovewins #thepowerofprayer #oursuperman

“I’ve never seen anything like it.” Not exactly the words you expect to hear from your neurosurgeon the night before brain surgery. My pre-operative MRI was significantly improved to the point that he had to double-check to be sure it was still mine. Mid-line shift was gone, swelling was down, and new lesions are now imperceptible. The main tumor that was 5.7 (and too large for me to qualify for the Tocogen trial) was now at 4.3cm. They’ve already submitted paperwork to see if I can re-qualify for the Toca trial, but for now we are standing down – no surgery tomorrow!!

And. . . exhale. This punctuates a couple day stretch where both car

Craig and his sister Heather share a laugh

batteries died, our dishwasher and sink broke, our basement flooded and we had to rush to the hospital to get a platelet draw again to see if I could even do surgery. Seriously, what a roller coaster.I’m gonna curl up in a warm bed and sleep well tonight. Or maybe now. Now feels good. . . “
Craig

It is great news heading into the new year and we wish Craig continued improvements.  We hope this story is an inspiration and lesson to many.  Please note as you ring in the new year.  Some have resolutions that may be way different than yours.  Take a lesson from perseverance and never giving up.

We wish a fantastic new year to Craig and his family and everyone who took time to read this article.

In 2017, you never know who will step out and be a superhero, but the Jolly family definitely has a #Superman.

If you would like to help donate to Craig’s cause, click the Go fund me links above or go to his Caring Bridge site HERE.

Craig Jolly and his sister Heather

Local Photographers Dayton Music Digest On Sale Now

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If you’re a fan of Dayton music this 2017 calendar by local photographer Jennifer Taylor is a must have.  This calendar takes viewers on a journey through previous year musical performances in and around Dayton, Ohio, with photos by Jennifer Taylor.

Jennifer  is an award-winning photographer and filmmaker specializing in documentation of the fine and performing arts in southwest Ohio. Her work has been published in the Dayton Daily News and the Dayton City Paper, among others. She is known for candid, yet intimate portraits.

Jennifer got her start at the Rochester Institute of Technology, a noted leader in photography and visual communication. Her recent work in music and theatre photography has established her as Dayton’s ‘rock ‘n’roll photographer’.

Jennifer has been taking pictures of local musicians for years and this year she’s put together a calendar to share these photo’s.  You can order one on Jennifer’s Etsy shop for just $20

 

 

Here’s a peek at some of the calendar pages:

 

Young Actors Wanted for ThinkTV Project

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Know someone between the ages of 8 and 12 who might be interested in acting in our new web series, “Anything I Want To Be, A to Z”? Share this information with them:

We need actors between the ages of 8 and 12 to play our A to Z Career Lab team! Interested? The auditions are from 4pm to 7pm January 3, 4 and 5 at our studio at 110 South Jefferson Street.

If you want to audition, email [email protected] with your preferred audition date and bring your 1-minute comedic monologue as well as your headshot and resume, if you have them. We’ll be doing call backs on January 18 and 19 and then shooting between February 11 and 20!

Free Pizza at Newest Rapid Fired Pizza Today

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As a celebration of the opening of the 9th Rapid Fired Pizza store today, guests will be treated to a FREE pizza.

This promotion will run from when doors open at 11am at 2001 E. Dorothy Lane in Kettering (formerly home to Krispy Kreme) until 8pm or until supplies last.

Guests can choose from a thin crust 11″ pizza or the 9″ pan pizza, which they can choose to top from up to 35 ingredient and 8 sauces and then watch their pizza be made in just 180 seconds.  Guests will be responsible for purchasing their own beverages or craft beers.

The fast growing Rapid Fired Pizza was founded by Ray Wiley, who also created Hot Head Burritos.  He expects to open up to 25 more Pizza stores across the state in 2017 with Middletown, Greenville, Oxford, Westerville, and Portsmouth coming up next.

 

The Quest For Dayton’s Best Dive Bar Continues

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According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the colloquial use of the word dive to describe a “drinking den” or “other disreputable place of resort” comes from the fact that these types of establishments were originally housed in cellars or basements, into which “frequenters may ‘dive’ without observation.

 

The Urban Dictionary defines a Dive Bar as
“A well-worn, unglamorous bar, often serving a cheap, simple selection of drinks to a regular clientele. The term can describe anything from a comfortable-but-basic neighborhood pub to the nastiest swill-slinging hole. You don’t need to dress up; we’re just going to the dive bar down the street. “


The August 2010 issue of  Playboy magazine described a dive bar as:

A church for down-and-outers and those who romanticize them, a rare place where high and low rub elbows—bums and poets, thieves and slumming celebrities. It’s a place that wears its history proudly.

Our own Mixologist Brian Petro has been leading the team on the exploration of  Dayton’s Dive Bars in 2016 and over the past year there’s been some serious exploration of these bars, as well as some even more serious discussion on what defines a dive bar.  We do agree that most dive bars serve very affordable drinks and are most likely to be populated by folks in their neighborhood.  From there are opinions were about as different as the establishments we visited.  Guess we’ll just have to keep exploring and chat more.

“It’s hard to define what makes a dive a dive, but you know it when you see one.”

Here are the places we’ve visited in 2016.  Click on the name to read more about the experience we’ve had at each of these places.  They are listed in the order that we visited.

Miami Valley Sports Bar – the addition of Tillie’s Tap Room make elevate this out of the dive bar category

Dog’s Breath Tavern – look for the $2.42 specials on Tuesday evening and food trucks are welcomed

Phone Booth Lounge – food and drink prices priced right

Sure Shots – a nice selection of music on the juke box, and the soft glow of a Jägermeister machine

Time Out Cavern – throws one of the best Derby watch parties in town

Diplomat Lounge– this is a place where darts appear to be king

McGillicutty’s – extensive food menu and some of the best wings in town and just 50 cents on Monday

Mack’s Tavern – got national buzz for leaving coupons on cars that stayed park and cabbed home

Adrienne’s White Rabbit Lounge – intimate and welcoming

Dr. Doodles Lounge – hard to find, but easy to feel comfortable here

Dark Horse Tavern – closed in July reopened in November

As we roll into 2017 what dive bars should be on our list to visit?  How do you define a dive bar?  Make your suggestions in the comments below:

The Pine Club Continues to Break The Chains!

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Among the new chain restaurants that seem to pop up daily along the Brown Street corridor, lives one of Dayton’s greatest treasures, The Pine Club. Somehow, and against all odds, the steakhouse staple continues to buck the trend of local restaurants losing out to chains. Certainly, no easy task in an area overwhelmed by Paneras, Chipotles and whatever new ‘make-it-your-way’ eatery opens. At the Pine Club, success comes down to loyalty, customer service and a great place to eat!

Don’t take my word for it, instead, listen to the voices of ‘foodies’ around the country, and the world. It was no surprise to Daytonians when they read in USA Today that the Pine Club was ‘one of the best steakhouses in the United States.’ People that live here are well aware, so much so that the online orders are fast becoming a mainstay of locals.

And of course, people shared the news when Gourmet, Fortune and Saveur Magazines all recognized The Pine Club as one of the ‘Nation’s Great Steakhouses.’ For many, knowing about the quality of Pine Club products sends them to a local grocery for the world renowned stewed tomatoes, delicious steakhouse sauce, and a personal favorite, Thousand Island dressing.


Dayton felt deep pride when the Pine Club was named by the New York Times as one of the ‘Top 10 Greatest Traditional Dining Institutions in the World!‘ That’s correct, World! With news like that, a crowded bar and packed weekends is inevitable, and an expectation!

What shocked Dayton; what threw people for a loop; what solidified their thought and feelings was when the Food Network came out with the Pine Club being chosen one of the ‘TOP 2 STEAKHOUSES IN AMERICA!‘ What the ?? I mean, there are hundreds of places to have a steak in the U.S., and one of the top 2 is right here?? In Dayton?

You betcha! You cannot last 70 years without learning the lessons of how to be good, be better, be the best! There is a reason they refer to it as “A Landmark in Dayton!”

Somehow, it excites Daytonians when they open the door at 1926 Brown Street, see the packed house, and they hear those satisfying words, ‘It’s going to be 45 minutes to an hour….have a seat at the bar!’ And we continue to reply, “Yes!! Yes I will. I will because I love my local gem! I love the tradition of it! I love my PC!’

Do yourself a favor…remind yourself why eating out still matters. Why local restaurants need the respect the rightfully deserve. Support the very people putting effort back into our community! Grab an oversized steak knife, pour on the Red and Blue dressing & rediscover what the rest of the world is just recognizing….we have the best of the best here in Dayton!

For more info, check out the Pine Club’s website at www.thepineclub.com. You can place orders, read their history and leave comments there!  Visit them at 1926 Brown St, Dayton, OH 45409-2411.

Drinking Prosecco Is Good For You

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Italy is responsible for the phenomenon that is Prosecco, which, in 2013, edged ahead of Champagne in terms of bottle sold around the world (307 million versus 304 million respectively).  It is light and fizzy, delicate and fruity. Because the wines are aged in large tanks with less pressure Prosecco bubbles are lighter, frothy and spritzy with less persistence as compared to champagne.  Finer Prosecco wines often exhibit notes of tropical fruits, banana cream, hazelnut, vanilla and honeycomb.    A standard pour of Prosecco has about 121 calories and costs about $13 for a good entry-level bottle.

5 Reasons To Drink Prosecco

1. It’s Good for your heart
According to scientists at the University of Reading, drinking one glass a week of prosecco a week can lower your blood pressure and increase the circulation to your heart thanks to polyphenols, the technical name for plant chemicals with antioxidants, found in the bubbles.

 

2. It can aid your memory
Although you might not feel like you can remember the whole night after a couple of glasses, research suggests the bubbles, especially those found in champagne, can help reduce memory loss and fight off dementia and other degenerative brain diseases.

 

3.  It can boost sex life

According to a paper in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, drinking one or two glasses of prosecco before sex can heighten your libido thanks again to the antioxidants. The antioxidants increase the blood flow to your downstairs getting you in the mood. Cheers!

 

4. It can lower your risk of  diabetes and Cancer
A study from Canada showed that wine, including the sparkling variety, can lower your risk of developing diabetes by 13%. However, it’s worth noting that people who already have diabetes should take care while drinking alcohol as it affects their blood sugar levels.

5. Prosecco can help fight off colds

Drinking can feel like the last thing on your mind when you’ve got a runny nose and a chesty cough, but a glass of prosecco a day really can keep the doctor away. Apparently, drinking one glass of prosecco can minimise your chances of developing a cold in the first place by 60 per cent.

 

Cheers to good health!

 

 

 

 

2016: The Year in Dayton Food

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Tilapia over Rice at Archer's Kettering

Tilapia over Rice at Archer’s Kettering

The Dayton food world had comers and goers in the year 2016.   Lots of eateries opened and some closed.  We said goodbye to some old favorites and said hello to some new and exciting cuisine.

Today, Food Adventures looks back on the year in review.  If you are a foodie, check out our list below.  You will see a lot of new places in the Miami Valley that will spark your interest!

Get a fork, spoon and your nostalgia caps on as we explore the “The Year in Food.”

 

*****RESTAURANTS THAT OPENED in 2016*****

ARCHERS TAVERN, KETTERING: Taking a successful restaurant philosophy and expanding it to Kettering has seemed to work out well

Bean and chicken Arepas from "Arepas and Co."

Bean and chicken Arepas from “Arepas and Co.”

for the owners of Archer’s.  If the first couple of months are any indication, look for continued success at this location on Dorothy Lane in the old Tumbleweed location.

AREPAS and CO. – DOWNTOWN: This Columbian restaurant opened it’s 3rd location in old Olive Dive spot.  Besides a strong cultural menu, they offer catering to parties big and small.  Delicious, fresh and food choices you won’t find anywhere else.

BAR 145:  This restaurant chain is open at Austin Landing.  It is known for burgers, lots of beers on tap and a section of the restaurant that holds vintage 80’s arcade games and live music on the weekends. Definitely a fun place to check out.

Golden Graham Donuts from Bear Creek Donuts

Golden Graham Donuts from Bear Creek Donuts

BAR LOUIE: Austin Landing landed this chain in 2016.  A slightly more casual version of the one at the Greene, you can expect the same happy hour and burger specials.  And try the totchos – yes, tater tots in your nachos…

BASIL’S ON MARKET: North Patterson Blvd is the expansion location for this 2nd restaurant opening (the original one is still in business in Troy). Incredible food photos on their Facebook page scream “You gotta come eat here.”  They have some amazing looking food and a huge patio overlooking the water.

BEAR CREEK DONUTS: Inventive, locally owned donut shop in Miamisburg that raises the bar on toppings.  One trip to this place, and you will be hooked.  Golden Grahams on Donuts?  Yeah , they got that.

Margherita Flatbread Pizza from BJ's Taphouse

Margherita Flatbread Pizza from BJ’s Taphouse

BIBIBOP ASIAN GRILL:  This Columbus chain finally lands in Dayton near U.D. and has plans for a couple more to come.   The Korean inspired meals start with steamed rice, topped with your choice of grilled meats or tofu and a mix of fresh vegetables and Asian sauces.

BJ’S RESTAURANT & BREWHOUSE, FAIRFIELD COMMONS:  That craft beer brewing chain with the great appetizers, opens up another mammoth eatery near Fairfield Commons mall.  The menu is solid from top to bottom.

BLUE NOTE BISTRO and LOUNGE:  New jazz hall and restaurant on 23 E. Central Ave in Miamisburg, which offers Sunday brunch.  Over the summer, they expanded dining and music hours.  Their Facebook page usually details the happenings.

The Monte Cristo Sandwich from Cheddars – Yes, it is deep fried

BRAVO, FAIRFIELD COMMONS:  The familiar Italian chain, expands in the Beavercreek/Fairborn area.  Must eats are the ravioli, and of course we love to dip the bread in that olive oil mixture, all night long.

CARMELLA’S ITALIAN KITCHEN: Just opened in the old Murphy’s Pub location on Wilmington Pike.  Their menu features Italian foods and sandwiches.

CHEDDAR’S SCRATCH KITCHEN:  Chain out of Irving, Texas, with dozens of locations reaching up into New York.  Big portions and a huge menu with semi-reasonable prices.  Think TGI Fridays on steroids or a casual version of Cheesecake Factory (with no cheesecakes.)     The new popular place at The Cornerstone development on Feedwire Rd.  Warning: Long waiting list during peak times.

The Chicken and Steak Fajitas from Chuy’s

CHUY’S, FAIRFIELD COMMONS: This Mexican chain is popping up stores quickly and the newest one is a location near the Fairfield Commons Mall.  Great guacamole dip starts out each meal right.  Try the margaritas and the Elvis Presley Memorial Combo of Enchiladas.

CRAFTED and CURED:  Two local men started this in Spring, 2016.  The concept is a cured meat shop, with over 60 craft beers on tap, featuring ales, stouts, ciders, sours and meads.  Of course the menu will feature rare meats and cheeses.  Read Chef House’s scoop HERE on her MostMetro article.  And they’ve just announced that 3 more food businesses will be joining them in 2017- a deli- Local Hero Butchery & Fare, a seafood option- Jack Lukey’s Oyster Saloon & Caviar Bar and Mediterranean goodies from Glasz Bleu Oven.

 

Chef House with a brew at “Crafted and Cured”

D20: A Bar With Characters-  Board games and brews on draft are the hallmark for this new place in the shopping center adjacent to the Whipp Rd Kroger.  Local owners Andrew Sparks and Christine Cooper have come up with the concept, and the drinking and dining area look inviting.  The D20 reference is a slang name for a Dungeon’s and Dragon’s 20 sided dice.

DARK HORSE TAVERN (closed in July -reopened in Nov.): They abruptly closed in July 2016, but the love of this place caused a deal to transfer the ownership and keep the menu and music alive.  Known for bands and BBQ, it is a great watering hole, with a huge bar.  Opened back up in November, Manager Nikky Vontz  is getting this place running right!

DON PATRON MEXICAN GRILL of FAIRBORN:  They have 2 Ohio locations, the latest being on 2632 Colonel Glenn Highway.  Specialties include Carnitas, Burritos, Fajitas and of course, Tacos.  They even have wings.

DOUBLE D’S FIT-Q MEAL PREP:  Waynesville’s BBQ boys have opened a brick and mortar place in downtown Lebanon.

Double D’s BBQ on a Cornbread Waffle

Owners Dan Velemirov and Dustin Seyersdahl are known for some great traditional BBQ.  They also have a signature sweet cornbread waffle and BBQ hot shot.

DOUBLEDAYS, SPRINGBORO: One of Dayton’s most popular locally owned restaurants, expanded to another location in front of the Dorothy Lane Market Springboro in the old Sammy’s El Pueblo building.  New location, but the same old favorites remain.  If you have not tried their homemade soups, you are in for a treat.  They also showcase an extensive sandwich, burger and dinner platter menu.

Doubleday’s Greek Chicken Soup- now in Springboro too

FREDDY’S FROZEN CUSTARD & STEAKBURGERS: A new fast food chain hits Dayton.  It is a cross between Steak and Shake and Culver’s.  Quick smashed burgers on the grill, hot dogs and custard sundaes are the signature of this quick bite.  Drive thru or dine in, and you will enjoy this throwback meal.

GYRO DELIGHT:  Some good buzz is going about this new gyro shop on Wilmington Pike.  They have familiar treats like Shish kabobs, Greek fries, chicken gyros and traditional gyros.  They also carry exotic Mediterranean food like baklava, shawarma, moussaka and dolmades.

JOHN ANTHONY’S SOUTHERN CUISINE:  This spot opened

A Double Cheeseburger from Freddy’s Steakburgers and Custard

in summer 2016 on Salem Ave.  They feature salads, fried catfish, collard greens, fried chicken & waffles.  Soul food at it’s finest, even down to the fried okra.

KUPBOP:  The latest quick eatery on Woodman Dr.  highlights the lighter, healthier side of Korean cuisine.  The “Create Your Own” seems to be the way to go.  This is the Korean version of Chipotle.

MARILYN’S GRILL:  This restaurant has been serving Soul food on North Main since January. Daily specials like Pork Chops, and Lemon Pepper Wings are crowd pleasers.  Other items like chicken and dumplings, or Philly Chicken subs look unreal.

OinkadoodleMoo is back in Miamisburg

MIKE’S NASHVILLE HOT:  The new “go to ” place for Southern fried chicken at Austin Landing.  Hand breaded chicken in strips, or whole pieces, spicy or not.  They also have a slew of sides and a perch option, with a 2nd location coming to Centerville on 48.

MURRAY’S PUB: Opened in January, 2016, then in December, 2016 announced it would be transitioning into the 937 Grill and Taproom.  Two new owners are taking over.  Look for an expanding bar menu and continued drink specials.

Panda Express in Bellbrook. The only Chinese Drive Thru, has cheese wontons

OINK-A-DOODLE-MOO: Miamisburg is the new location for this place, formerly in Kettering.  Great BBQ, sauces and sides are the tradition here.  Located at 40 N Main St in Miamisburg, they have a full catering menu too.

OLD BAG OF NAILS PUB: Cross Pointe’s latest restaurant is one of a group of Columbus owned eateries.  They have an extensive menu of burgers and sandwiches, and many seafood entrees like Scallops, Blackened Tuna Steak and Fried Clams. A nice soup and dessert offering round out a large menu of options.

Panera in Huber Heights is now serving delicious onion soups.

OLD SCRATCH PIZZA and BEER: The word is out about this new pizza place, and the feedback has been great.  They have red sauce options, white sauce options,salads, sandwiches and a full craft beer list.  Create your own pizza, or choose from the dozen options they have.  Located at 812 South Patterson Blvd. there’s even a great private room for parties or meetings.

PANDA EXPRESS:  Dayton’s only “drive thru Chinese restaurant” is here.  This eatery is owned out of California with sites all over the USA including mall courts.  Menu choices are simple and traditional.  Choose from chicken or shrimp in sweet sauces or fried.

Pastrami Sandwich from Primanti Brothers, a chain out of Pittsburgh

PANERA BREAD, HUBER HEIGHTS:  The familiar chain with the bread bowl soups, pastries and more.  Huber Heights, you too now, can enjoy the fun.

PHILLY PRETZEL FACTORY:  Centerville just held a ribbon cutting at this location on S. Main Street near Lock 27.  Big, Soft Pretzels are the love here, with various toppings and dips.  Get ready to make and bring back some memories with your first bites.

PIZZA FIRE: The fresh toppings pizza place where you run down the line and top it yourself.  The new location is on 4325 Far Hills Ave in Kettering.

PRIMANTI BROTHERS:  The famous Pittsburgh chain is now in Dayton too, near the Fairfield Commons mall.  Overstuffed pastrami sandwiches, reubens, and are all the rage here.  Are they as good as the original?  You be the judge.

Rapid Fired Pizzas are popping up all over. They have a Blueberry Dessert Pizza !

RAPID FIRED PIZZA (4 new locations): Fairborn, Centerville, Bellbrook and Huber Heights,  locations are all news and  have all been thriving and Kettering opensthis Friday with FREE pizza.  Quick Pizzas and Quick huge salads for about $7.95.  With topping choices like ricotta cheese and sun dried tomatoes, what’s not to like?

SKY ASIAN CUISINE: The upscale Sushi restaurant that took over the struggling location at the corner of Wilmington Pike and Woodman’s fork in the road.  All the discussions we have heard about this place have been very positive.

SMITH’S BOATHOUSE RESTAURANT: On the Great Miami River, in Troy, Ohio, this upscale dinner place specializes in Seafood and Steak.  A fun, elegant setting, and the owners are lifelong locals who seem to really care about the food quality.

Loose Meat Sandwich from Spent Grain Grill. New inside Warped Wing 2016

SPENT GRAIN GRILL:  Inside Warped Wing Brewery, this literal hole in the wall place serves tremendous amounts of food to a busy, thirsty brew crowd.  From loose meat sandwiches to the tater tots, we are fans of this new place.  Spent Grain literally uses the waste from the brewing process to make pizza dough and bread for their burger and  sandwich buns.  Good idea, and it fills a need  for tasty food while drinking locally brewed beer.

STAGECOACH CAFE:  New Carlisle has a quaint new eatery that is turning heads.  With 35 facebook reviews and all of them 5 stars, it is time to give credit where due.  Specials like Lasagna and Chicken and Noodles, point to a place with comfort food.  There saying is “Stop in and try the homemade difference.”  It looks like it is time for a a Food Adventure.

TABLE 33: With the saying “grow, share, eat,”  they are blazing a unique trail in the breakfast food jungle.  They use locally sourced products and have faith based philosophy of turning no hungry person away.   Located at 130 West 2nd Street, they offer weekend brunches as well.

James Nunez and his wife have a restaurant now on West Third Street.

TABLE of CONTENTS CAFE:  Xenia area cafe owned by Cassaundra Lee.  It is actually inside the Blue Jacket Bookstore.  They have a daily menu with coups made from scratch.  Hand baked items are available for dine-in or takeout.

TEXAS BEEF and CATTLE CO.: Originally know for festivals, these caterers now have a restaurant where patrons can own a share of the establishment.  Being an owner has its privileges such as price breaks and more.  Owner James Nunez and his family make some of the most succulent beef brisket we have ever tried.  Their BBQ sauces and rubs are amazing.  Get to 1105 W 3rd St, these people know what they are doing.

TOKYO JAPANESE GRILL & SUSHI:  New full service sushi restaurant with hibachi and Japanese soup choices as well.  Located across the street from the Cornerstone development on Feedwire Rd, it has been open since April, 2016.   Menu offers deals on larger pieces of sushi orders.

VICTOR’S TACO SHOP:  Recently opened at 1438 Keowee Street, there is also a location at 1002 N. Broad St. in Fairborn.  This colorful drive thru specializes in Tacos, Rolled Tacos, Quesadillas and Todstadas.

Zombie Dogz: now on Brown Street Serving “Juan of the Dead” and others

THE WANDERING GRIFFIN: The newest Brewery and watering hole has a unique design.  They have a couple bars and a coffee bar called Wanderlust.  The menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner is getting great reviews.  You may recall this place used to house Quaker Steak and Lube near Wright State’s Campus, just off Colonel Glenn Highway.

THE WRIGHT PLACE:  Completely remodeled restaurant inside the Holiday Inn, across from Wright State.  This eatery looks to pull guests in with historic decor and great food.  Using local foods and a “chef’s garden,” Chef Justin White looks to kick things up a notch on his menu.

ZOMBIE DOGZ: Dayton’s most popular food truck has a brick and mortar location on Brown St. in the old Shish Wraps storefront.  David and Lee VanArtsdalen have really pushed the envelope over the years, and now you can have all of your favorite dogz – check out their menu here.  How can anybody not love this fun place?

 

“Street Style Gyros” are must eats at the Greek Street Food Truck

*****NEW FOOD TRUCKS IN 2016*****
GREEK STREET FOOD TRUCK: Owner Chris Spirtos has taken his street Gyro recipes to the Dayton streets with great success.  They have one of the more grueling schedule of appearances, and it has led to many being exposed to their great foods.  Our faves are the baklava, spanakopita and “Chicken Gyros, Street Style”


LATIN AREPAS FOOD TRUCK:  A family operated food truck, that also offers catering.  The menu includes classic Venezuelan,Colombian, Latin American, and Tropical cuisine.  Menu items include Arepas, Tacos, & Empanadas.  They are Vegan & Vegetarian Friendly, with Gluten free choices.


MENEHUNE TIKI BUS: This is the only double decker food truck in Dayton, and it is a stunning sight.  Although dogged by a couple of unfortunate mechanical issues and a wreck, they are back and bringing their Hawaiian and South Pacific food to the Miami Valley masses.  The Kalua Pork Grilled Cheese sandwich is a “must eat.”

Menehune Tiki Bus is a two story Food Truck

SON OF A BISCUIT:  Dayton’s Breakfast Food Truck featuring Biscuit and English Muffin Sandwiches.  Brad Manning, the owner prides himself on quality ingredients so he only serves Landes Fresh Meats from an old fashioned farm market in Clayton that specializes in Farm-Harvested Beef & Pork.  This Food Truck makes it easy to want to “rise and shine.”

 

And now … sadly, some of our favorite Food Adventure spots closed this year as well…

We give a tip of the hat to those we will miss.

*****RESTAURANTS THAT CLOSED in 2016*****

Bad Dog, Nice Taco is missed !

BAD DOG, NICE TACO: Our own Chef LeeAnne House and Brian Johnson teamed to bring you a hot dog and nacho cart that spoiled us with toppings from feta to freshly made housemade sauces.  Currently Chef House is in Chicago, and when we asked about a re-opening possibility for Bad Dog, she said “never say never.”  Stay Tuned.

THE BARNSIDER: After more than 41 years, the Barnsider restaurant served its last meal in May 2016.  Known for prime rib and shrimp dinners, you can still buy their cocktail sauce at local grocers and Foremost Seafood.

No more Bob Evans French Toast on Harshman Rd

BOB EVAN’S:  The location on Harshman Road, near Stebbins High School closed in 2016.  We hope the students of Stebbins are still able to get biscuits, gravy and pancakes at acceptable intervals.

BOSTON’S BISTRO: July 2016 marked a historic closing.  After 35 years of business, owner Dave Boston closed his establishment on N. Main Street. Much of his business has been at the old Sports Page location. It was a building his father built.  Boston’s was known for being the first place to sell multiple craft beers in the Dayton area.  He started selling craft beers in the 1970’s.  Dave said he would reopen at another site if the deal was right.

David Boston, in his now closed pub

CORLEONE’S CENTERVILLE:  This spinoff pizza joint was the 2nd location for Corleone’s, tucked into a shopping center on 725 behind Fricker’s.  It never quite took off, even though they had some tremendous pizza and pasta options.  Thankfully the Patterson Rd. location is still open.

DESIGNER DOGS:  It opened in January, 2016 inside the Fairfield Commons mall, and closed in September.  Inventive toppings on the hot dogs included shout outs to various cities and states.  The owners promise a return in some fashion, noting a deal in the works to mass produce their dogs.  Hopefully we see them again real soon.

Corleone’s in Centerville closed. We miss the pasta dishes .

DON PABLO’S, FAIRFIELD COMMONS:  They were one of the first restaurants to open around the Fairfield Mall.  Decades later, they would close in 2016 citing lack of business.  We are sad to see them go as their drinks and chips with salsa were some of the best around town.

DT’s KITCHEN CARRYOUT: They opened in March and closed in December, 2016.  The menu was a broad diner menu from Quesadillas to Fried Shrimp Dinners.  We hate to see locally owned restaurants close, especially when the customer reviews looked so good.

Inside Sushi Cafe one last time

ECLIPSE COFFEE and TEA:  Locally owned coffee shop located on Wilmington Pike between LaRosa’s and Frisch’s.  Maybe the location was tough, because it looks like the product was superior.  They carried quality coffees and teas out of Seven Hills, Ohio.

KAI SUSHI CAFE: One of Dayton’s first sushi restaurants. The crowds had dwindled over the years with increased competition.  An empty parking lot seemed the norm the last few months, and after a couple of transfers of ownership and a legal dispute, the restaurant could not continue to operate.  We hope this old Howard Johnson building on Byers Rd. gets a new tenant soon.

KRISPY KREME: January, 2016 was the closing date for cult favorite.  The national donut franchise could not keep up with local

No more “Hot Fresh Now” light.  Damn you Krispy Kreme !

favorites.  Although it will close, regional bakeries will still be pumping Krispy Kreme product into various gas station convenient stores around town.

LAROSA’S, HUBER HEIGHTS:  Buddy LaRosa decided to pack this one in during 2016.  The Cincinnati based company could not get the business they wanted to stay open.  But don’t worry although the 7375 Old Troy Pike location is closed, there are others around Dayton and of course Wayne students can still get slices at King’s Island.

LaRosas closes in Huber Heights – no more all you can eat spaghetti

LOGAN’S ROADHOUSE, FAIRFIELD COMMONS MALL: A surprise to many, corporate cited high rent and low income for the closing.  If you people would have just not thrown your damn peanut shells on the floor.

MAX n ERMA’S SPRINGBORO:  Located at 710 Gardener Rd, off of State Route 741, this restaurant closed in January, 2016.  We love Max n Erma’s.  We love this regional chain and concept from the Garbage Burger to the drinks.  Hopefully another one will open in town, soon.

Chopped Steak and Sweet Potato from Logan’s Roadhouse

MCKENNA’S GRILL: This restaurant on Presidential Drive in Fairborn, inside the Holiday Inn, closed to make way for “The Wright Place.”

MURPHY’S IRISH PUB:  This locally owned restaurant closed in late 2016 and was replaced by Carmella’s Italian Kitchen.  It’s sister restaurant Paddy’s in Centerville remains open.

OSAKA SUSHI and BUFFET:  Dayton’s first conveyor belt sushi restaurant, was an upscale buffet that just never

Sangria at Max n Ermas

caught on.  There was a strong regular customers of Asian descent, but the big crowds were few, forcing them to close.  The owner has promised to renegotiate the rent and reopen as a hibachi restaurant much like Sake or Benihana.

Osaka Sushi Buffet and Hibachi has closed on Kingsridge

QDOBA, BROWN STREET: This eatery closed July 2016.  It was located in the heart of the busy restaurant district across from University of Dayton.

SHISH WRAPS:  Simon Abboud owned this health conscious restaurant that turned Mediterranean street food into some wonderful creations.  We were very sad to see this place on Brown Street go.  Their hummus, tabouleh and sauces were all made from scratch.  Their shish wraps always left us “shish faced.”

SUSHI CLUB: February, 2016 marked the end for this “all you can eat” made to order sushi place on Alex Rd.  We had hit this spot many times and always had a good meal.  Maybe the food costs did them in, but they never could seem to capture the big crowds although they had a regular following.  We were surprised it closed so quickly and really miss the food.

Fajita Rancher Bowl from Qdoba

TASTY MEASURES CAFE: Although they made their own deli meats using Sous Vide style cooking methods, the business crowds were not enough to stay open.  Unfortunately this locally owned cafe on Jefferson Street closed in June, 2016.

UNCLE SUNNY’S HOMESTYLE CAJUN FISH & CHICKEN:  A family owned spot on 131 Cincinnati Ave in Xenia, it was all about the fried fish and chicken.  The reviews were great, and although they originally were going to be a 24 hour restaurant, that never came to fruition.  The owners are hinting at another project in the works, so stay tuned.

A Shish Wrap

That does it for the movers and shakers of this year.  Do you have a comment about any of the places that have closed or opened?  Please leave your thoughts below.

Do you have any predictions for 2017 ?

We look forward to more Food Adventures in 2017.  If you would like more on the Dayton food scene, follow us on FACEBOOK by clicking HERE.

HAPPY NEW YEAR to all, and to all a good bite!

Sushi Club – all you want sushi closed on Alex Rd.

Side of Lobster at Logan’s Roadhouse – CLOSED by Fairfield Commons Mall

Archers Kettering is HERE !

Bad Dog Nice Taco’s Breakfast Omelette taco

Chuy’s Elvis Enchiladas – a tribute to the King

Zombie Dogz – DEAD DIXIE dog

A Hot Dog from Freddy’s Steakburgers & Frozen Custard

Panda Express – Honey shrimp and General Tsao Chicken

Rapid Fired Pizza has lots of sauces !

Spent Grain’s cheesey gravy tots – inside Warped Wing

End of an Era – Boston’s Closes

All you can eat Sushi Club closes on Alex Rd. in 2016

The Greek Street Food truck cooking spinikopita

Kai Sushi Cafe – a last sushi roll

The Pork Grilled Cheese from Menetune Tiki bus – food truck

DAI Announces Special Exhibitions for 2017

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The Dayton Art Institute has announced its 2017 special exhibitions, featuring a major retrospective of Native American artist Kay WalkingStick, a newly organized tour of the African beadwork of the Ubuhle women, and decadent Art Nouveau lithographs by Alphonse Mucha.

“The Dayton Art Institute strives to present a range of special exhibitions complementing the museum’s encyclopedic collection,” said Katherine Ryckman Siegwarth, Kettering Exhibition Coordinator and Curatorial Associate, and in-house curator. “We are thrilled to host these three traveling exhibitions and are certain our guests will find meaningful experiences with the varied artworks.”

Kay WalkingStick: An American Artist
February 11–May 7, 2017

The special exhibition season begins with Kay WalkingStick: An American Artist, the first major retrospective of one of today’s most accomplished Native American artists and a leading practitioner of contemporary landscape painting. Featuring more than 60 of her most notable paintings, drawings, sculptures, and notebooks, this exhibition explores the artist’s search for the spiritual truth of her complex cultural identity, against the backdrop of key art historical movements. Arranged chronologically around themes which mark her artistic journey, Kay WalkingStick: An American Artist follows the artist along a journey of self-discovery, invention, innovation and evolution through visually brilliant and evocative works of art.

The exhibition and tour are co-organized by the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian and the American Federation of Arts. The exhibition is accompanied by a substantial catalogue featuring essays by numerous authors, including the artist herself.

Ubuhle Women: Beadwork and the Art of Independence
June 24–September 10, 2017

The DAI’s summer exhibition, Ubuhle Women: Beadwork and the Art of Independence, showcases a new form of bead art, the ndwango (“cloth”), developed by a community of women living and working together in rural KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The black fabric on which the Ubuhle women work is reminiscent of the Xhosa headscarves and skirts which many of them grew up wearing. Using skills handed down through generations, and working in their own unique style—“directly from the soul,” according to artist Ntombephi Ntobela—the women create abstract as well as figurative subjects for their ndwangos. Ubuhle means “beauty” in the Xhosa and Zulu languages, and it describes the shimmering quality of light on glass that has a particular spiritual significance for the Xhosa people.

The exhibition was developed by the Smithsonian Anacostia Community Museum, Washington, D.C., in cooperation with Curators Bev Gibson, Ubuhle Beads, and James Green, and it is organized for tour by International Arts & Artists. The Dayton Art Institute will be the first venue for this new tour.

Alphonse Mucha: Master of Art Nouveau
September 16–December 31, 2017

The 2017 special exhibition season concludes with the Art Nouveau designs of Alphonse Mucha (1860–1939). Drawn from one of the finest private collections of Mucha’s work in the United States, this exhibition features 75 works by the celebrated Czech master, whose varied, expressive, and seductive imagery helped form and later shape the aesthetics of French Art Nouveau at the turn of the 20th century. Taking inspiration from the unruly aspects of the natural world, Art Nouveau influenced art and architecture, especially in graphic work and illustration, with its sinuous lines and whiplash curves. Through rare, original lithographs and proofs, paintings, drawings, and ephemera, this exhibition examines the broad range of Mucha’s work, largely created during the 1890s, at a time when the emphasis was on creating a new art fit for the new century.

The exhibition and tour are organized by Landau Traveling Exhibitions, the exhibition is accompanied by an illustrated catalogue with essays from the Mucha Foundation and art historian Gabriel Weisberg.

“Our curatorial team has put together a diverse lineup of special exhibitions that offers guests a window into varied cultures and time periods from around the world,” says The Dayton Art Institute’s Director and CEO Michael R. Roediger. “The 2017 season offers something for arts lovers of all ages and interests. We hope you’ll join us at the museum and consider becoming a member of The Dayton Art Institute.”

The beginning of the new year is the perfect time to become a member of The Dayton Art Institute. Memberships start at just $40 and provide free admission to all three special exhibitions, unlimited visits to the museum’s permanent collection, free admission to Bob Ross Auto Group Jazz & Beyond concerts, discounts for many other museum events, programs and workshops, discounts at The Museum Store and Leo Bistro,  and reciprocal access to 14 other Ohio art museums.

For more information about the 2017 special exhibitions and museum membership, please visit www.daytonartinstitute.org or call the museum at 937-223-4ART (4278).

Nominate a Top 25 Woman to Watch for 2017

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WiBN and the BBB encourage you to nominate a Miami Valley watchable woman for the Top 25 Women to Watch Award. In 2009, WiBN created these awards to recognize women who are exceptional in their roles and respected in their fields, who are causing more than just a ripple in the public arena and in their communities and who “light a spark” or make an impressThese awards recognize women who:

  • Are exceptional in their roles and respected in their fields
  • Are causing more than just a ripple in the public arena and in their communities
  • “Light a spark” or make an impression on their circles of influence

 

Each woman stands out in some special way – because of her leadership, community service and professional achievements – or all three. Among the criteria for inclusion are:

  • A woman’s recent professional achievements
  • Her influence on the marketplace
  • Her contributions to advancing women in business

 

By honoring the Top 25 Women to Watch each year, Women in Business Networking hopes to inspire them – and other women like them – to take their professional and personal lives to yet another level. We are watching to see what WiBN’s watchable women have in store for us, themselves and the entire Miami Valley.

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The 2016 Women To Watch

Nominations for a 2017 honoree are open  through January 13, 2017, and may be submitted by completing the form below. The 25 chosen honorees are surprised with this award, so please keep the nomination confidential. The 2017 honorees will be notified and announced on March 20, 2017.

Dayton/Miami Valley BBB employees and past honorees are not eligible. Click here for a full list of past honorees. Only fully completed applications with submitted photos will be considered. Submissions must be received by your Better Business Bureau by midnight, January 13, 2017.

Please contact Melissa Cutcher at [email protected] or (937) 610-2273 with questions concerning the nomination process.

Call for Entries: Rosewood Gallery “Works on Paper” 2017

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Dayton at Work and Play: Bahar & Reza

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15369242_1119185484847246_6418798396159226927_oReza Masoudi recently took the time to tell me how he and his wife came to open their couture shop Bahar & Reza in Oakwood (2308 Far Hills Avenue).

“My wife and I first met when we were college students in Iran. Like many young Iranians – especially those interested in fashion – we dreamed of building a life outside of Iran. I left first, and studied at Wright State. Then Bahar joined me in Dayton and we were married eight years ago.

“Before the revolution Empress Farah, wife of the late Shah of Iran, was known for the fashions she wore. She had gowns made for her that were modern in design but used fabric decorated with ancient Persian motifs. We decided to try something similar.

“Our first venture was on Ebay, selling a few simple items like ties and scarves using fabric with Persian designs. We were amazed at how many we sold. So we tried a few more items and they also sold well. Next we put up a website and started taking part in some of the larger U.S. fashion shows. The business continued to grow. Our fashions have been worn on the red carpet in L.A. and Empress Farah, who now lives in exile in Washington D.C. and in Paris, is one of our customers.

“People in the fashion industry advised us that our next step should be a shop in L.A. but we drug our feet. The cost to rent space in L.A. was very high, and we had both grown to like living in Dayton. Then 10 months ago I saw a For Rent sign in the window of this store. I was the first person to call the landlord and I signed the lease immediately. Results have been good so far, and we hope to be able to continue to grow our business while staying here in Dayton.”

 Editors Note:  Bill Franz started a popular facebook page called Dayton at Work and Play.  In addition to showing Dayton people at work, his site introduces viewers to the beautiful places and interesting people of Dayton.  With Bill’s permission we’ll be sharing his work on MostMetro.com.

Mystery Monday – December 26, 2016

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Welcome to Week 46 of Mystery Mondays. The answer to Week 45’s Mystery Photo is: The Christmas tree in downtown Troy, Ohio. I took this photo on December 3, 2016.

dmm-mystery-monday-43

We congratulate our randomly drawn winner Chris S  of Troy, you were our lucky winner out of the 60+ correct guesses. You’ve won two pizzas from Rapid Fired Pizza.

Enter here:

http://goo.gl/forms/dyU55fzc48

We’ll post the winner next Monday with details about the photo as well as a new photo to challenge your knowledge of the Dayton area.

Thanks for playing and good luck!

Here’s our Mystery Photo for Week 46:

dmm-mystery-monday-44

Photo by Tom Gilliam of DaytonGram & Tom Gilliam Photography.

The Dayton Underground End of Year Live Show

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On December 29th, Music Connection Dayton, LLC presents The Dayton Underground Series End-of-Year Bash and The 2016 Best of Dayton Underground Finale! This show will go down at Oscar’s Bar on December 29th, which is the Thursday between Christmas and New Year’s. Right in time to take a break from the family, and get out party with your friends! 13118954_1157788870938609_325888936498234374_n

The featured live music comes from local bands: Krunk Town Boogie. FOUNDING FATHERS and The Sandwich. All three are great bands definitely worth checking out. They will also have Foto l booth on hand to capture the memories.

No excuses to miss this one because it’s a free show! Organizers ask that you bring gently used clothing donation for Helping the Homeless Dayton Ohio Making A Difference! You’ll be keeping folks warm this winter and get a cool button and sticker from Music Connection Dayton for your donation! 

The VIP musicians (who played in this year’s Dayton Underground Series) and supporters will also be treated to complimentary food and drinks and will vote to determine the Grand Prize Winner and Runners Up of our Best of Dayton Underground 2016 contest! Pick up one of our VIP packages at www.musicconnectiondayton.com (limited quantities available).

This event is generously sponsored by sponsored by: Popside Recording, Sound City Music, Jim’s Donut Shop, Fiber Dry Carpet Cleaning, Helping the Homeless Dayton Ohio Making A Difference, W937 Dayton Radio

screen-shot-2016-12-23-at-9-55-54-amHow to Go?

December 29th, 2016 from 8pm – 12am

Oscar’s Bar in Vandalia. Free show. 21+

Dayton’s Definitive Guide to New Year’s Eve

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New Years Eve dinner is meant to be a special occasion. Deciding which restaurant to choose from can seem like the debacle of your year. Do you see NYE as starting anew with your resolutions or is this your night to close 2016 with a bang? Luckily for you we have narrowed it down to just a few, and trust us when we say you won’t go wrong with any of these fabulous spots.

bff25ec5-cde4-495d-a4e4-58d47180edeb-1Nibbles Restaurant will be hosting a special dinner to help you ring in 2017!  Seatings will be at 5, 7 and 9pm.  This exquisite dining experience is just $79/per person.

The special fixed-price menu will include four courses, as well as some surprise treats prepared especially for you!  For those guests who book at the 9:00 seating there will be complimentary glasses of champagne, and the opportunity to toast the New Year with all of our friends and staff.


Amuse-Bouche
Savory Gougères  filled with crispy prosciutto, sage, and apple compote

Starters:
Salmon Cheesecake savory tart with house-smoked salmon, ricotta and parmesan cheeses, fresh herbs or Beef Carpaccio sliced Prime tenderloin with aioli-fried capers, mushroom broth

Salad
Radicchio Salad- fresh greens, mango, basil, dressed with lemon vinaigrette
and house-made lemon ricotta or Roasted Beet Salad Roasted multi-color beet medallions
with beet vinaigrette, whipped chèvre, crushed pistachios, and salted rye crisps

Entrées
Pan Seared Halibut with smoked pomme purée, shrimp bisque, poached shrimp garlic chips and micro-greens or La Petite Beef Wellington prime tenderloin with ruby port shallots,
potato croquettes, duck fat-roasted carrots, and haricot vert with crispy shallots-demi glace

Desserts

Chocolate Peanut Butter Mousse Cake layered with whipped peanut butter mousse house-made caramel, peanut butter streusel, garnished with caramel shards or Banana Bread Foster butter-crisped banana bread, topped with  bananas foster flambéed in Tuaca liqueur, house-made vanilla bean ice cream

Reservations by phone only! Please call: (937) 802-0891

 

13335531_10153518467957541_9043574519746137192_nRue Dumaine‘s 6 course New Year’s Eve Dinner
2 seatings available

Crudo, fennel, pink peppercorn, blood orange

Sancerre braised oxtail, butternut squash** Agnolotti, Jacob &Brichford’s Ameribella** glace, frizzled leeks

Salad of Tuscan kale**, preserved lemon, EVOO, sheep’s milk cheese

Your choice of entrée:
Halibut, fingerling confit, Jamestown pea shoots**,
grapefruit-pecan beurre noisette
or
Lambchop & crépinette, creamed spinach, Maitake mushrooms, red wine shallots, Cabernet gastrique

Coquette inspired Rogue River’s Smokey Blue cheese cream, Anjou pear sorbet,
caraway crumb

Dessert of Bittersweet chocolate, prune & Armagnac

$78 per person

14543942_557456731106970_6708898939721207426_oBlue Note Bistro  New Year’s Eve Bash!

You don’t want to miss this Black Tie (Optional) Affair. It will be a very elegant energetic evening !

RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED … we have a limited number of seats available – once they’re gone, they’re gone, so plz call (937) 247-3000 and make your reservations now! You will have your table for the entire evening.
This event includes:
* 4 Course Dinner – includes choice of one (each) – appetizer, salad/soup, entree and side-item from our exclusive specialty item menu! Dessert – Our Pastry Chef will be creating a surprise dessert especially for the occasion
* Bottle of wine to complement your dinner (per couple)*
* Party Favors
* Pictures
* Midnight champagne toast**
* Very special LIVE entertainment with New York Jazz Sensation, AMY LONDON
* Many other surprises to welcome in the New Year!

The cost for this very special event is $125 per person or $225 per couple
**additional alcoholic beverages are available separately
For more information about our New York jazz sensation, Amy London please visit our website bluenotebistro.com

 

cf107a7a-96ce-4ecf-96c8-6800e2c09f67Perhaps a fancy dinner doesn’t sound like your idea of fun for the last day of the year.  Well that’s the cool thing about Dayton- there are plenty more ways to ring in the New Year and keep reading on to find the right one for you.

 

Looking for a Family Friendly way to wrap up 2016?

The Original Harlem Globetrotters harlem-globetrotters-131228-660

December 31 @ 2:00 pm
Ervin J. Nutter Center, 3640 Colonel Glenn Highway

Kids’ New Year’s Eve Countdown Celebration

December 31 @ 3:30 pm – 5:00 pm
Newport Aquarium, One Aquarium Way

Rockin’ New Year’s Eve 5k Race & Fun Run race-1685

December 31 @ 4:00 am – 6:00 pm
 Centerville High School

New Year’s Eve Family Bash

December 31 @ 5:30 pm – 9:00 pm
Kettering Recreation Complex, 2900 Glengarry Drive

Ring in the New Year at the Kettering Recreation Complex! This fun, family-friendly evening will have something for everyone: a bounce house, ice skating, swimming, open gym, games and music. Admission is $5/participant or $15/family of four and includes snacks. Additional $2 for ice skate rental.

Resolution Run 5K

December 31 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Beavercreek High School, 2660 Dayton-Xenia Rd

Finish like an Olympian on the Beavercreek High School track (Certified 5K course with lights!) Cost: $25 with Long sleeve Technical Shirt $20 with no shirt $10 kids fun run with tee-shirt Race-day registration (6:00 – 7:30) – $30

A Very Proto New Year!

December 31 @ 7:00 pm
Proto BuildBar, 534 E. First St.
This event is an exclusive, casino-themed party featuring custom made mechanical games: bicycle chain-powered slot machine Tesla vs. Edison “Patent Race” derby game LED rainbow roulette flash board Be ready to gamble for tokens and redeem them for chances to win unique prizes from the World’s Largest Claw Game, drink some specialty cocktails, play vintage video games and DANCE.

Night Club & Bar New Years Parties For Adults

 

Glostik Willy

December 31 @ 5:00 pm  at Oddbody’s   18 & up
Subterranean (Dayton, OH), the Bath Salt Zombies Band (Daytona Beach, FL), FlowPoetry (Madison, WI), and 2 sets from GLOSTIK WILLY!

New Years Eve at the Brewery
December 31 @ 6:00 pm   FigLeaf Brewing Company, 3387 Cincinnati-Dayton Rd,

We’re going to wish 2016 farewell by introducing our Belgian Tripel! We will have live music by David Thornton from 7-11:30 pm, a toast to the New Year, and we’ll be open until 1am!

Century’s New Year’s Eve party
December 31 @ 6:00 pmDecember 31 @ 6:00 pm15590219_1316965418368158_3406959701707319354_n

The Century Bar, 10 S. Jefferson St.
Dayton, OH 45402 United States
Reservations are on sale now for the Century’s New Year’s Eve party! Reservations are $20 per person which includes your seat for the evening, party favors, and a champagne toast at midnight. Doors will open at 6pm for our New Year’s Eve party. Seating will be extremely limited and these reservations will sell out so

 

New Years Eve Bash 2017

December 31, 2016 @ 7:00pm – January 1, 2017 @ 2:30 am
Dance the night away!
Julia’s Nite Club, 8939 Kingsridge Dr   $24

Irish Club New Years Eve15134648_1153203188081811_2467655976043100179_n

December 31, 2016 @ 7:00 pm – January 1, 2017 @ 1:00 am

The Irish Club of Dayton, 6555 Dog Leg Road  $15

Dance your way into 2017 with Shadowlife playing 80’s, 90’s, classic & modern rock, dance, funk, metal and country.  Doors open at 7, band starts at 8:30.  Live entertainment by Shadowlife.  Heavy appetizers throughout the evening, pork & sauerkraut served at 10:00, champagne toast at midnight.   OPEN TO PUBLIC.  $15 per person if purchased by December 30

New Year’s Eve Dinner & Dance  w/the Frank Moravcik Band
December 31 @ 7:00 pm
American Czechoslovakian Club, 922 Valley St.

Dinner Served: 7:00pm – 8:30pm Includes: Roast Pork & Sauerkraut, Mashed Potatoes & Vegetable Salad & Bread Deserts, Beer, Wine, Soda, & Coffee   Dancing: 9:00pm – 1:00am

15540890_1652074788427815_6549412551402029284_o-1 Crafted & Cured NYE Party

December 31 @ 7:00 pm   Crafted & Cured, 531 Wayne Ave

Join us for a spectacular and magical evening. Not only will we be having a complimentary champagne toast at midnight, but we’ll also be doing our very own ball drop! • Formal or flapper attire! • Live music! • Special Champagne Drink – requires a password, which we shall reveal later!

 Jameson’s Folly NYE!15356579_1182508575174699_1177100828360269988_n

December 31 @ 7:30 pm
The Dublin Pub, 300 Wayne Ave

Celebrate Irish New Year’s from 7-8, then rock in the New Year in Eastern Time from 9-12:30! Come enjoy a delicious dinner from The Dublin Pub’s NYE menu, a special performance by the talented dancers from the Celtic Academy of Irish Dance, and drinks and tunes with us – see you there!

New Year’s Eve Bow Ties and Boas Party

December 31 @ 8:00 pm
Crooked Handle Brewing Co., 760 N Main St By Dorothy Lane Market

Reel’n in the Years with White Rabbit

December 31 @ 8:00 pm
Riff Raff Tavern on the Canal, 130 N. Patterson Blvd.
Prime Rib Buffet, champange, party favors and a whole lott’a White Rabbit.

New Year’s Eve with Generations Big Band!image-3

December 31 @ 8:00 pm

Mandalay Banquet Center, 2700 E River Rd

 

Ring in the new year in style with 17 piece Generations Big Band! New Year’s Eve and the Mandalay includes: Filet and Turkey carving stations Potato Bar Pasta Bar Salad Bar Champagne toast Party Favors (gluten-free and vegan friendly options available) $150 per couple (reservations required)

New Year’s Eve Party in the Park

December 31 @ 8:00 pm   Austin Landing, 10050 Innovation Drive

https-cdn-evbuc-com-images-26003104-43845583586-1-originalAustin Landing has the only Times Square atmosphere in Dayton this New Year’s Eve! Rock out to live music from Stranger and Party with a Purpose benefitting The Pink Ribbon Girls. The fun never stops as we rock out all night – ending with an amazing display of fireworks and a live ball drop!

Linda Prevo Band New Year’s Eve Bash

December 31 @ 8:30 pm
Oregon Express, 336 E. 5th Street

New Years Eve Bash!
December 31 @ 9:00 pm

Mack’s Tavern, 381 Miamisburg-Centerville Rd

15578260_1291197937610017_1743508725127139976_o*****FREE CAB RIDES HOME***** Let’s kick 2016 to the curb and welcome in 2017 with our drinks raised high! FREE CAB RIDES!! Mack’s Epic New Years Eve Party is going to be well Epic lol. Everyone in the door between 9pm and 10pm gets a Good Bye 2016 shot bought for you by Mackenzie.

Bar Louie Austin Landing New Year’s Party

December 31 @ 9:00 pm
Bar Louie in Austin Landing is hosting a New Year’s Eve party on Saturday, December 31st! Tickets are $25. Your ticket gets you VIP access which includes: • 2 Drink Tickets to be used 9pm-12am • Breakfast Buffet from 12am-2am • Champagne Toast at Midnight

Bar 145 NYE Bash  December 31 @ 9:00 pm

The best NYE in Dayton is happening at Bar 145 and Reset! Austin Landing is the place to be for NYE 2016!!! Champagne toast and an appetizer buffet included. $20/person or reserve a table of 4 or 6 Neon White is going to blow the roof off all night!

Fire and Ice NYE Masquerade Party at Cloverdale 15355819_710745535757423_5372294372120253060_n

December 31 @ 9:00 pm

Cloverdale Dayton, 101 S St. Clair St.
Fire and Ice is our Masquerade theme this year for NYE! Join DJ Isicle on the dancefloor, Soul Fire Tribe, a complimentary champagne toast at midnight and more surprises soon to be announced!

2016 Salsa Saturday w/ DJ Danny D

December 31 @ 9:00 pm

Therapy Cafe, 452 East 3rd St

 

image-4

* TABLE RESERVATIONS CONTACT: DAN {BAR MANAGER} AT (937) 559-1892. * NYE COVER CHARGE: $10 PER PERSON. * INCLUDES: PARTY FAVORITES & CHAMPAGNE TOAST @ MIDNIGHT. Every Saturday night is “Salsa Saturday with DJ Danny Diaz “El Cubano” from Miami Beach Florida dj’n music with videos: https://youtu.be/41KdxEcptcg DJ Danny D plays a mixture of Latin

Wings Annual New Year’s Eve Bash
December 31 @ 9:30 pm
Wings Sports Bar & Grille, 7902 N Dixie Dr
Justin Bryan band Will be Rocking Wings for our Annual New Year’s Eve Bash!!! We’ll Have Food & Drink Specials & the Best Music in the #Dayton area!!!

A Rubi New Years December 31 @ 10:00 p15577909_1753318708027359_7979438724640887392_o

MJ’s on Jefferson, 20 N. Jefferson St.

MJ’s On Jefferson and our NEW YEAR’S EVE BASH!! Feauturing an amazing 10pm show starring THE RUBI GIRLS!! Following by our incredible Cast show featuring Royalty Tova Ura Vitch, Izaya Cole, Nhiraje, Jade Sexton, Sasha Chanel Soule, and Scarlett Fever!! Balloon Drop at Midnight with cash prizes and more! Free champagne toast!


Shows, Movies & Comedy Clubs

New Year’s Eve: American Vistas

December 31 @ 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm  $25 and up
Schuster Center, One West 2nd Street
new-years-eve-american-vistas-c

Prior to the concert, tasty appetizers and sweets will be available in the Wintergarden, and during intermission the audience can toast one another with flutes of champagne. The performance itself will feature all three members of the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance—dancers from the Dayton Ballet, vocalists from Dayton Opera, and the instrumentalists of the Dayton

NYE 2016 @ The Little Art

December 31 @ 8:00 pm    $25
“Blazing Saddles” – our tribute to Gene Wilder – and live music from Devil’s Backbone!
Yummy Appetizers, complimentary glass of champagne, party hats & noise makers and tons of fun!
Little Art Theatre, 247 Xenia Avenue (Rt. 68)

NYE 2017 Spectatular!

December 31 @ 8:00 pm – 9:30 pm
Wiley’s Comedy Joint, 101 Pine St.

dataCome out and celebrate this NYE with terrific food, drinks and Comedy! This year helping RING IN 2017 is the hilarious MIGUEL DALMAU (FOX, TruTV, AXS TV, The Bob & Tom Show). The 8pm show gives you a chance to start out your evening with us then head to where ever you want to celebrate

Fever Dream and Brooklyn Bridge Club @ The Black Box Improv Theater

December 31 @ 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm

The Black Box Improv Theater, 518 E. Third St.

 

NYE’s Extravaganza With Michael Malone    Dayton Funny Bone Comedy Club
88 Plum Street Suite 200  7pm & 10:30pm shows

special-engagement-nyes-extravaganza-m-25Special Engagement New Year’s Eve Extravaganza with Michael Malone! Come celebrate the New Year with us!  The 7:00pm Tickets include a Pre-Show Buffet served from 5:30pm-6:30pm. Tickets  $45
The 10:30pm pre- show buffet is served from 9:30pm-10:15pm. Tickets for this show are $70 plus service fee and include party favors, and a champagne toast at midnight, in a souvenir take-home champagne glass.
The 10:30pm Show Only is available for $45  plus service fee and includes party favors, and the champagne toast at midnight, in a souvenir take-home champagne glass.

 

With about 3 weeks to go until the end of the calendar year, we know that lots more events will be added, so we’ll keep updating this story as we hear about more events, and if you know of something we should list, please contact us!