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

Archives for February 2017

Zombie Dogz 3 Month Anniversary $13 Meal Deal

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It’s been 3 months since Zombie Dogz opened the doors on their Brown Street location and they are celebrating with a Valentine’s Day Eve special.  According to a post on their Facebook Page:

Supporter of ours and fellow business owner’s son was born with only half of a heart and has undergone 2 surgeries with more to come, and yet none will ever “fix” him. They’re only life sustaining, which is unimaginable having kids of our own?. His name is Mason and his heart condition is HLHS, all proceeds are going to The Children’s Heart Foundation in Illinois. So, for $13 you can get any hotdog, any side, a drink, and a cupcake.

Speaking of cupcakes….., Cake, Hope, & Love, who’s cupcakes we already carry, have graciously donated 200 of our EXCLUSIVE ONLY red cream soda and strawberry compote cupcakes, and for every cupcake sold with this promotion, and we’re hoping to go through all 200, we will match it, hoping to double the proceeds raised. They’re even decorating them with a half of a heart.

We will also have it all kinds of sappy-wonderful for you all. We’re thinking some Marvin Gaye, Boys to Men, flowers, a disco ball, confetti?? endless, but I think you’re getting what I’m throwing down?. Come and spend our anniversary/Valentine’s ‘Eve’ with us and help us raise a lot of love for this little boy!

You can visit Zombie Dogz and help benefit baby Mason from 10am – 9pm Monday  at  1200 Brown Street .

Centerville Native Wins Award for Beyonce’s Lemonade

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Last night in Hollywood the Art Directors Guild’s held the  21st Annual Excellence in Production Design Awards.  The ADG and IATSE Local 800 announced winners in 11 categories of film, television, commercials and music videos during a black-tie ceremony at the Ray Dolby Ballroom at Hollywood and Highland.  Hosted by Patton Oswaldm “Hidden Figures,” “La La Land,” and “Passengers” won the top feature film awards at Saturday’s Art Directors Guild Awards in Los Angeles.

On a local note, Centerville native and Wright State University graduate Hannah Beachler topped the Awards or Event Special category for Beyoncé’s conceptual music video album Lemonade.  In her

(L-R) Actor Will Forte, Production Designer Hannah Beachler, and Actress Kristen Schaal celebrate at the 21st Annual Art Directors Guild Excellence In Production Design Awards at The Ray Dolby Ballroom at Hollywood & Highland Center on February 11, 2017 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Mathew Imaging/WireImage)

acceptance remarks, Beachler said of Lemonade, “I am so honored to be recognized for this unique project. I loved designing for a strong woman of color [Beyoncé] on such a bold, original artistic expression.”

Lemonade’s storyline centers on the protagonist’s journey from alienation to forgiveness after a partner’s betrayal. Beachler observed that “the biggest challenge creatively was giving the 18th century plantations a modern language. For me, it was about reaching back into a time period that was not a place that holds fondness for African Americans. We wanted to flip it on its head, make it a place of knowledge and peace, which was also the best part about it.”

As for how she got the opportunity to work with Beyoncé on the project, Beachler said, “I worked on a couple commercials in Los Angeles with DP Chayse Irvin and when they decided to come to New Orleans, he threw my name out.  Kahlil Joseph, the director, gave me a call (they did not mention who it was for) and we talked a bit about the project and I was  curious and intrigued, so I signed on.  It wasn’t until I started working that I learned exactly what the project was and who it was with.  It was certainly a nice surprise.”

Beachler has served as a production designer on director Ryan Coogler’s Fruitvale Station, Creed and the upcoming Black Panther. She also handled production design for Miles Ahead, the biopic on jazz great Miles Davis starring, directed and written by Don Cheadle filmed here in Ohio  and was the Production Designer for Moonlight and will be in town this weekend to talk about her experiences on the Oscar nominated film.

 

MOONLIGHT with Special Guest Hannah Beachler!
Sunday, Feb. 19 at Noon at The Neon

Ms. Beachler will be in town this coming Sunday and will be present at  an encore screening of the incredible film MOONLIGHT featuring a special talk-back with the film’s production designer. Hosted by Dr. W. Stuart McDowell, Wright State University Dept. of Theatre, Dance & Motion Pictures.

“A timeless story of human connection and self-discovery, Moonlight chronicles the life of a young black man from childhood to adulthood as he struggles to find his place in the world while growing up in a rough neighborhood of Miami. At once a vital portrait of contemporary African American life and an intensely personal and poetic meditation on identity, family, friendship, and love, Moonlight is a groundbreaking piece of cinema that reverberates with deep compassion and universal truths.”

Tickets just $7.50 each ($5 for WSU students).
Advanced tickets are available now at THE NEON’s box office during traditional operating hours.

Dayton at Work And Play: Bonnett’s Book Store

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Bonnett’s Book Store (502 E. 5th Street) was opened in the 1930’s, which probably makes it the oldest business in The Oregon District. I dropped by recently to learn more about the store’s history from Kevin Bonnett.

“My grandfather made the money he used to start this store by writing crime stories. They were published in pulp magazines like Black Mask and Thrilling Detective. We found a letter he wrote saying that he had sold 5 stories for $50 each, so maybe that was what he used to start this store.”

“The original name of the store was Bonnett’s Back Issue Magazines. Pulp magazines often had long stories told in installments. So when you finished reading an installment you could sell your used magazine to my grandfather and buy one with the next installment of the story you were reading.”

“Most of the toys you see in the store date back to my father’s time. A customer who was moving out of town gave my Dad a toy to remember him by, and he placed it on a shelf in the store. My Dad thought that toy looked lonely and added a few. Then other customers started giving toys to the store and here we are. People are constantly asking about buying some of the toys, but they aren’t for sale. They’re part of the store’s history.”

Beer & Food Pairing features Rivertown Brewery at Jimmie’s Ladder 11

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Foodie alert! Jimmie’s Ladder 11 has been hosting beer and dinner pairings as of late, and the next one is coming up. This month’s event, Rivertown on Brown, features Monroe’s Rivertown Brewery and Barrel House on Brown Thursday, February 16th.

If you are looking for a food and beer adventure, this event is for you! Five courses are planned and prepared by the Ladder 11 Kitchen to pair with five Beers from Rivertown Brewery. Check out the menu below for full details. Tickets are $50 and include tax & gratuity. Call today to reserve tickets for this one time only event!

How to go?

Jimmie’s Ladder 11, 936 Brown St

Thursday, February 16th, 2017

Doors will open at 6:00 pm, and the event will start at 6:30.

Tickets $50 (includes tax and gratuity)

Stop in for tickets, or call for tickets: (937) 424-1784

‘The Children’s Hour’ Review – Wright State University – Alternative Facts Run Amok

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Two schoolteachers accused of lesbianism at an all-girls boarding school cannot escape the onslaught of lies encircling them in Lillian Hellman’s provocative, rarely staged 1934 drama “The Children’s Hour,” excellently presented by Wright State University under the delicately firm direction of Marya Spring Cordes.

(left to right) Megan Valle (Mrs. Amelia Tilford), Zac Pruett (Dr. Joseph Cardin), Katie Post (Karen Wright), and Haley Knuth (Martha Dobie) appear in Wright State University’s production of Lillian Hellman’s “The Children’s Hour.” (Contributed photo by Chris Snyder)

Karen Wright (Katie Post) and Martha Dobie (Haley Knuth) are shocked to the core when troublesome 12-year-old student Mary Tilford (Dana Bixler) tells her stern yet doting grandmother Amelia (Megan Valle) what she thinks she heard about their behavior behind closed doors. As Mary’s vicious falsehoods spin out of control, Karen’s engagement to good-natured Dr. Joseph Cardin (Zac Pruett) is put to the test while an infuriated Martha ultimately faces a harsh reality.

 
Hellman’s Pulitzer Prize-nominated script, inspired by an 1810 incident at a school in Edinburgh, Scotland, is very impactful but overlong and a bit stodgy. There’s also a peculiarity in the climax some might find terribly cold or downright humorous depending on one’s mood. Nevertheless, the keen perspectives Hellman presents from bullying to intolerance to same-sex desires to the power of manipulation are truly relevant (and Arthur Miller-esque) in the wake of current societal and political strife.

 
Post and Knuth are heartbreaking and emotionally savvy, giving subtle insight into the depths of Karen and Martha’s relationship without suggesting anything more than friendship. In fact, notice how this talented duo beautifully consoles each other with a blanket in Act 2, a visual that speaks volumes in its warmth and sensitivity. The spiritedly vindictive Bixler, the epitome of a spoiled brat on the verge of utter psychosis, is a tremendous force to be reckoned with as Mary orchestrates her madness. The very endearing Pruett effectively conveys Joe’s loyalty to Karen and his heartfelt understanding of her deep bond with Martha. Valle, a skillful chameleon memorably dynamic last summer as the Mute in Columbus’ Short North Stage’s “The Fantasticks,” marvelously grasps Amelia’s elderly austerity as well as her pivotal uncertainty when faced with Mary’s wild claims.

 
The strong cast includes Caitlin Shiner as Mrs. Lily Mortar, Brynnan McNeill (terrific opposite Bixler) as naïve Rosalie Wells, Madeline Musico (eavesdropping with “Downton Abbey”-style finesse) as Amelia’s maid Agatha, Heather Cooperman as Peggy Rogers, Rachel Woeste as Evelyn Munn, Taylor Patrick as Lois Fisher, Drew Longmore as Helen Burton, Kayli Modell as Catherine, Celia Arthur as Janet, Donnasia Allen as Leslie, and Grant Measures as Grocery Boy.
Cordes’ first-rate artistic team includes scenic designer David J. Castellano (projections heighten his fine work smoothly depicting altering locales), lighting designer Jennifer Watson (evocatively incorporating shadow as the story grows bleak), costumer Naomi Reisner (supplying attractive period attire), and sound designer Rachel Haas.

 
In addition, it’s significant to note “The Children’s Hour,” filmed in 1961 starring Audrey Hepburn and Shirley MacLaine, was the subject of one of the first landmark court cases to address censorship of gay and lesbian subject matter. The show was to play Boston after its acclaimed Broadway run but was banned by the city’s public censor because of its “lesbian content.” In 1936, the play’s producer and the American Civil Liberties Union partnered to challenge the ruling in federal court, marking the A.C.L.U.’s first “gay rights” case and prompting censorship of gay-themed content in the arts to become part of the national conversation.

 
“The Children’s Hour” continues through Feb. 12 in the Creative Arts Center Festival Playhouse of Wright State University, 3640 Col. Glenn Hwy., Fairborn. Performances are Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. Act One: 100 minutes; Act Two: 50 minutes. Tickets are $22 for adults and $20 students and seniors. For more information, call (937) 775-2500 or visit wright.edu/theatre-tickets. Patrons are advised the play is intended for adult audiences.

 

 

RTA Shows Love To Customers By Offering Free Rides

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The Greater Dayton RTA is offering a Valentine’s Day gift to its customers who use the Transit app – free rides on Tuesday, February 14 if you show the app to your driver.

Any rider who has Transit app open on their smart phone and presents it to the driver while boarding on Valentine’s Day can ride all day at no charge. This free ride day is the result of more than 1,000 customers downloading Transit app during an RTA promotion before the New Year. The app now has more than 2,200 downloads in Dayton.

Transit app was included as part of RTA’s RideTime real-time bus tracking technology rollout in December 2016. It works on any Apple or Android smartphone and is free to download in the App Store or via Google Play when users look for this logo:

Transit app uses RTA’s real-time GPS technology to enable users to track their bus, send alerts for when the bus is approaching a stop or nearing their destination, or plan a trip.

Riders who haven’t yet downloaded Transit app are encouraged to try it out and enjoy a free ride on Valentine’s Day. RTA staff hope customers will love Transit just as much as they do.

How-to guides, videos and links for how to use Transit app along with RideTime phone, text and computer-tracking features each are available at iriderta.org/ridetime. Information can also be found on the agency’s Twitter and Facebook pages.

RTA is Ohio’s greenest fleet, and serves 3,300 stops on 31 routes throughout Montgomery and parts of Greene County. The agency operates diesel, hybrid diesel, and electric trolley buses that take people to work, school and shopping. Customers ride RTA on more than 9 million passenger trips each year. 

 

Take the “Say CHEESE Burger” Challenge!

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Do you ever eat too fast? If so, that speed could pay off on Saturday, February 18th at Caesar Creek Flea Market, and on Sunday, February 19th, at Treasure Aisles Flea Market, during their “Say CHEESE Burger” Challenge!

“Say Cheese Burger” is a timed eating contest where the FASTEST eating time WINS!! The challenge features a colossal cheeseburger, stacked high with a full pound of beef (3 Patties at 1/3 lb. each); Slices of Spicy Pepper Jack Cheese, Cheddar Cheese, and all-American Cheese; Mac-N-Cheese Bites; Fried Pickle Slices, Fried Onions, Nacho Cheese Sauce – ALL piled high between a Hamburger Bun that’s topped-off with 2 giant Fried Onion Rings!!

Each Market will have One Lucky Contest Winner! Winners will receive $50.00 in Market Bucks, and a 30-Day FREE Gym Membership to Anytime Fitness. Plus – ALL contestants receive a “Say Cheese Burger” T-Shirt and a picture feature on our “Say Cheese” Challenge Wall!

Contests begin at 2:30 pm at Caesar’s Wilmington location (Saturday) and 2:30 pm at Treasure’s Monroe location (Sunday.) Entries are limited so your chances to WIN are HUGE!! You can even double your opportunities to WIN by entering both challenges!

To Register – visit the Market’s individual Facebook page or website. Registration fee is $10.00. (Additional contest rules apply – see their Facebook or websites for additional information and Prize details.)

Show-off your super-sonic eating skills and bring your family, friends, and your appetite to Caesar Creek Flea Market, in Wilmington, Feb. 18th, and Treasure Aisles Flea Market, in Monroe, Feb. 19th and find out if you’ve got what it takes to WIN!

Caesar Creek Flea Market is located at St. Rt. 73 and I-71 (Exit 45) Wilmington, OH 45177 and
Treasure Aisles Flea Market is located at I-75 and St. Rt. 63 (Exit 29) 320 N. Garver Rd., Monroe, OH 45050.

Last Minute LOVE, LOOT and LUST!!

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Uh-Oh! Valentine’s day crept up on you! Now what?? No need to worry! Agnes and Orson Gifts and Goods has the last minute magic covered. Here are some unique ideas for you and your Loved-One!

For the Traditional – Cards, candles and love notes are always a hit. If you the irreverent lover, be sure and find one of the many off-color cards in store. There are plenty.

Love Notes are Always Fun!

For the Jewelry & Leather Lover – nothing says ‘Love You’ like earrings, or a new bag! If you are wanting to make a lasting impression, start with the Matt and Nat collection!

Jewelry…Always a winner!

For the Earthy Partner – Terrariums are so much fun to grow together! Go Green, and be a champion of all things natural. Look for the ones in the larger vessels…go BIG!

For the Eccentric Mate – you will find everything from hanging whales, to signs of innuendo! One thing A&O does very well, is find something you never knew you, or the ones you loved, needed.

For the cool cat – there is nothing more year-round then sunglasses. A collection of the stylish, to the statement, to the stud is here for your pal. Sunglasses provide the fun and fantasy of donning a new look daily…and they are a great price point gift!!

For Your little Valentine – an assortment of adorable pillows awaits. Handmade right here in Dayton, these keepsakes always bring a smile to moms and dads alike!

For the Sophisticated – look into A&O’s antiques and collectibles. Why not place those roses in a vase for the 1920’s! A wide selection of Martha Stewart’s favorite, Frankoma, really says ‘I Thought About this Gift!’

Frankoma has been gaining popularity again!

Great gifts are yours at A&O, with holiday hours: Open Saturday 11a – 4pm. Monday 12P-5p. Tuesday 11a – 7pm.
The New Agnes and Orson is located at 514 East Third Street in the Cannery Building!!

Love, Yearning, Passion, Romanticism: Dayton Ballet Presents Daring Duets

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On Thursday, February 9 at 7:30 pm; Friday, February 10 at 8 pm; Saturday, February 11 at 8 pm; and  Sunday, February 12 at 3 pm in the Victoria Theatre, the Dayton Ballet is thrilled to present Daring Duets, the third ballet of the 2016–2017 Excite Season. The Thursday evening performance of Daring Duets includes a Pizza Prelude from Uno’s Pizzeria to be served in the Victoria lobby beginning at 7 pm.
Artistic Director Karen Russo Burke and Dayton Ballet bring an exciting new ballet repertory program entitled Daring Duets to the Victoria Theatre stage, celebrating the complexities of the relationship shared between couples. The program will feature the full Dayton Ballet Company as they partner with one another to present some of the most well-known and most exciting, new, original pas de deux ever to grace the Victoria stage. The program comprises eight unique ballets that range from classical to neoclassical to contemporary, in an in-depth look at how two people join together to dance on stage as one.  Interviews with dancers and choreographers will shed light between dances in a video presentation made possible by the generosity of the Miriam Rosenthal Foundation for the Arts.

“Pas de Deux is French for ‘Step of Two’ and is what partnering is called in ballet. By dancing with a partner, the lady can jump higher, take positions she would never be able to on her own, and ‘float’ about the stage as she is carried by her partner. A partner allows a man to extend his line and show off his strength.” (www.the-ballet.com) Dayton Ballet presents an exhilarating evening of duets, or pas de deux, choreographed with this very definition in mind.

Dayton Ballet is thrilled to be able to dance a pas de deux from the late dance legend Antony Tudor, a George Balanchine contemporary who has been hailed as the “artistic conscience of American Ballet Theatre” from the moment he joined ABT for its founding season in 1940. This February, Dayton Ballet will dance his famous pas de deux from the ballet The Leaves Are Fading. This exquisite pas de deux was originally danced under Tudor’s direction in 1975 by Amanda McKerrow and John Gardner, two of America’s most acclaimed and talented dancers of the 20th century. Ms. McKerrow and Mr. Gardner will work in studio directly with Dayton Ballet dancers to set this beautiful piece for Dayton Ballet. The Antony Tudor Ballet Trust was formed after Tudor’s death in 1987 with the mission of securing the legacy of Tudor’s great ballets. The Trust is exceptionally selective of the ballet companies with which it works, so Dayton Ballet is truly honored to be able to pay tribute to the ballet genius of Antony Tudor with this performance.

Dayton Ballet is also excited to welcome choreographer Nicole Haskins to its studios as she sets her engaging pas de deux La Linea Scura, choreographed to music of the same name by Italian pianist Ludovico Einaudi. Haskins hails from Venice Beach, California, and has danced professionally with well-known companies across the country, including Sacramento Ballet, Kansas City Ballet, and Washington Ballet. Haskins, an experienced choreographer as well, has worked in the past with several Dayton Ballet dancers, and she comes to Dayton to set her beautiful pas de deux La Linea Scura this month.  Ms. Haskins’ work on La Linea Scura is made possible by the Dermot Burke Fund.

The dancers of Dayton Ballet will also present more classical works, including the famous Grand Pas de Deux from Don Quixote, a dance teeming with passion, energy and bravado. Set to the impeccable music of nineteenth-century Czech composer Ludwig Minkus, Don Quixote was originally choreographed by French/Russian dancer and choreographer Marius Petipa in 1869.  It is Petipa’s original choreography that Dayton Ballet Artistic Director Karen Russo Burke will use to set this traditional ballet for this performance.

In addition to these three selections, Burke will present five other works, highlighting the strength, expertise, and superb partnering skills of each dancer in the Dayton Ballet company. Dayton is invited to spend a romantic Valentine’s Day engulfed by the beauty and elegance of the purest expression of emotion between two dancers—the pas de deux—in Daring Duets.

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

Tickets for Daring Duets are $21 to $72 and are available at Ticket Center Stage (937) 228-3630 or online at www.daytonperformingarts.org. Looking for a sweet deal for your sweetie this Valentines weekend?  All tickets now 50% off using code “DUETS” call (888) 228-3630Senior, teacher and student discounts available at box office.

’26 Pebbles’ Review – Human Race Theatre Company – Healing in the Aftermath

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The tragic December 14, 2012 shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut, which took the lives of 20 children and six adults, is examined with relatable earnestness and resilience in Eric Ulloa’s touching if uneven new play “26 Pebbles,” currently receiving its professional premiere from the Human Race Theatre Company.

All photo’s courtesy of Scott J. Kimmins

Six months after the incident, Ulloa, a New York actor and playwright recently featured in the entertaining new Gloria and Emilio Estefan bio- musical “On Your Feet!,” traveled to Newtown for answers. Angry and frustrated, he sought solace in discovering how the quaint community was affected by such a heinous act. He held over 60 interviews with various residents which became the catalyst for the monologue-heavy, one-act play.

Ulloa has said “26 Pebbles” can be viewed as a contemporary offshoot of Thornton Wilder’s classic drama “Our Town,” but I find its theatrical DNA akin to Moises Kaufman and the Tectonic Theater Project’s Matthew Shepard-inspired, interview-driven drama “The Laramie Project.” In fact, his play could use more of the realistic bite and edge which gives “Laramie” its palpable sting. I understand his desire to keep the structure Americana-infused with the folksy charm of Grover’s Corners, but it’s not an absolutely engaging decision. In fact, the opening sequence, set in a town hall, is a cutesy introduction that doesn’t go anywhere. Practically 15 minutes is spent convincing the audience why Newtown is a fantastic and welcoming place to live (even a meteor shower is praised) when five minutes or less would have sufficed. Thankfully, the action quickly kicks into gear (and scenic designer Scott J. Kimmins’ wonderfully efficient set terrifically disconnects) when reflections of the shooting occurs. The sea of frantic responses, the disbelief of New England utopia coming under siege, is very invigorating, providing some of director Igor Goldin’s strongest moments of stagecraft.


Now I understand there might be reticence in Ulloa dwelling on 20-year-old shooter Adam Lanza, but this play finds its footing in its insightful debate of what went wrong inside Lanza’s home and inside his psyche. Everyone knows blame makes for great drama. After all, we wouldn’t feel the same about the Wingfields or the Tyrones or the Maxsons without it. So, it’s not surprising Lanza’s mental illness, detachment, isolationism, his upbringing as a child of divorce, the laundry list of weapons in his possession, and even his good qualities provide compelling fodder. Also, when one woman suggests it takes a village to raise a child, it intriguingly brings into question Newtown bearing responsibility for Lanza’s behavior. It is a thought-provoking nugget gently raising the stakes for the play. It’s perfectly fine to know Newtown received over 63,700 teddy bears, but darker, uncomfortable shades shouldn’t be ignored, especially in the pursuit of the impactful.

Goldin’s excellently chameleonic sextet, nicely dressed in upper-middle class everyday fashion courtesy of costumer Jessica Pitcairn, weaves through multiple roles with fluidity and magnetism. Christine Brunner is warmly winning as an Australian adjusting to life in America (whenever the Oscar-nominated film “Lion” is adapted for the stage I hope she receives a call to play the Nicole Kidman role). A very chipper Caitlin McWethy is an appealing fit in her primary narrative role recalling the Stage Manager in “Our Town.” Scott Hunt, who recently gave one of the finest performances of his career as Molina in Columbus’ Short North Stage’s central Ohio premiere of “Kiss of the Spider Woman: The Musical,” is very endearing as a concerned rabbi wishing he could have mentored Lanza. Jason Podplesky also showcases genuine sensibility in a fatherly capacity. Jennifer Joplin and Gina Handy are delightfully paired as entrepreneurs Jerian and Starr who provide healing and angel readings. John Rensel’s expert lighting design and Jay Brunner’s evocative music and gripping sound design are noteworthy.

Ulloa states “26 Pebbles” is not about the victims, but perhaps it should be. As issues of gun violence continue to swell, especially in this divisive age of President Trump and Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos, it’s time for a statement to be made. Placing a litany of inspirational words on a chalkboard is a feel-good solution, but there are other steps worth exploring. His well-meaning play, conceived during Obama era optimism, concludes lovey-dovey, but has the potential to make a courageous and riveting ripple throughout the nation if given a deeper look at current anxieties.


“26 Pebbles” continues through Feb. 19 at the Loft Theatre of the Metropolitan Arts Center, 126 N. Main St., Dayton. Performances are Thursdays-Saturdays at 8 p.m., Tuesday and Wednesday at 7 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. The production is performed in 90 minutes without intermission. Tickets are $20-$40. There are discounts for select side-area seats available for $12 and $25 for all performances. For group sales, contact Betty Gould at (937) 461-8295 or e-mail [email protected]. For tickets or more information, call (937) 228-3630 or visit www.humanracetheatre.org or ticketcenterstage.com. In addition, there will be a post-show talk-back with a spokesperson from Sandy Hook Promise following the Sunday, Feb. 12 performance

Send A Singing Valentine!

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Looking for that special gift for your sweetheart or just want to brighten the day of a friend?  Gem City Chorus will be delivering Singing Valentines in Dayton and the surrounding areas. They can deliver to a work place, home, most restaurants, schools (with permission), and even hospitals, retirement centers and nursing homes. Your special someone is outside the Dayton area? Book a Ringing Valentines that can  be delivered by phone.

Your Singing Valentine includes a personalized card, a small floral arrangement (red rose, baby’s breath, and fern), and a song delivered in person by one of our costumed quartets.

As a more permanent memento of the occasion, they offer pictures and/or a small stuffed teddy bear.  They  also can deliver extra songs and extra flowers.  Reasonable charges apply for these additional options

The base price is $40 for deliveries within their measured radius (bounded on the east and south by I-675, on the north by I-70 and on the west by Rt. 35) and a flexible delivery time.  There are additional charges for deliveries outside the standard delivery area, for exact times and for other special delivery requests.  You can  complete an online form and they will call to confirm your order and accept payment at that time.  Or you can call 937-433-1014 and place you order over the phone.

Gem City Chorus is an international award winning women’s performance chorus that sings in the 4 part Acappella style know as barbershop. Although this is our primary harmony style, the Gem City Chorus sings a variety of music from pop to big band, from musicals to songs from the stage and screen

The Highland Stag Coming To Springboro

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Soooogood to become Celtic pub

The Highland Stag, a new Celtic restaurant and pub, will be opening in the Spring of 2017 in the space formerly occupied by SG@75 and Soooo Good, a popular gastro pub in the south Dayton suburbs. The restaurant and bar will offer traditional Celtic fare with a contemporary, but authentic flare.

Real estate and business broker Brent Moore of Moore & Associates shared that the logo is still being designed and social media and web sites for the business should be up in the next week or so.  Demo has begun on the inside of the building and we’ll have pictures soon.

The family owned and operated restaurant will build on the demand of authentic décor and cuisine and will fill a much need absence in the marketplace. Born in Scotland, the owner will be utilizing traditional Celtic family recipes and updating them to suit the palate of the local market. Items such as rack of lamb, shepherd’s pie, toasties, and braised short ribs promise to give you more than you expect, while Midwestern comfort foods and children’s favorites will help to satisfy everyone in the family. With their combined experience they feel confident they can be provide these old world delicacies in a thriving Midwestern arena.

Along with a blending culinary experience, the restaurant promises to offer a wide range of traditional Celtic draft beverages, and craft beers, including several local breweries. They will also pride themselves on both a spectacular Scotch and Irish Whiskey menu, as well a robust wine list. In addition to a wonderful menu, The Highland Stag plans on an event driven calendar to include Scotch and Whiskey dinner pairings, tap takeovers, wine events, and special dinners.

The Highland Stag will be supporting “local providers” and healthy alternatives on the menu. The owner has been involved in the community and will continue to be involved through supporting local youth organizations, public entities, and charitable groups. The hours of operation have not been set, however the plan is to be open Tuesday through Sunday to start. The owners of SG 75 offer their blessings and support as this unique concept becomes a reality.

 

Dayton Region Walk of Fame Accepting Nominations

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Wright Dunbar, Inc. announces that 2016 Dayton Region Walk of Fame nomination forms are now available online at www.daytonregionswalkoffame.org. Paper nomination forms are also available at the Wright Dunbar, Inc. office, 1105 West Third Street, Dayton, OH 45402. Nominations must be typed and received by noon on Wednesday, March 1, 2017 online or in the Wright Dunbar office. 

Individuals or groups from the Dayton region or who have spent a significant amount of time in the region and have made an enduring impact on the local community, the region, the nation and/or world are eligible for nomination. Arts/Culture, Aviation, Business/Corporate Leaders, Community Service, Education, Entertainment/Media, Environment, Government/Military, Invention/Innovation, Law, Medicine, Philanthropy, Science, Significant Personal Achievement and Sports are the categories highlighted.

 

Last year’s honorees were Nancy Cartwright, Dr. Martin Delany, Donald (Don) J. Donoher, Harold (Hal) McCoy, Bette Rogge Morse, Robert (Bob) P. Ross and Norma Ross, Dr. Benjamin Schuster and Marians Schuster and General Janet Wolfenbarger. A list of past inductees is available at www.daytonregionswalkoffame.org.

Shamrock Shakes Are Here- With Four New Options!

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They make their appearance every February, and for millions of Shamrock Shake Fanatics these minty, greet sweet treats are the first sign of spring.

The first Shamrock Shake debuted in 1970 as the St. Patrick’s Day Shake. In 1974, proceeds from the beverage’s sale helped to fund the first Ronald McDonald’s House in Philadelphia. That city is currently the nation’s leader in Shamrock Shake sales.

This year McDonald’s has upped the ante, offering 5 different Shamrock options available starting today (Feb 7th) through St Patricks’s day:

Shamrock Shake: vanilla soft serve, mint syrup, whipped topping, but this year it may come with a sprinkle of granulated green sugar and a cherry.

Chocolate Shamrock Shake: half a chocolate shake (on the bottom) and half a Shamrock Shake layered on top.

Shamrock Chocolate Chip Frappé: mocha frappe with whipped topping, green sugar and a drizzle of chocolate syrup.

Shamrock Hot Chocolate: a blend of milk and chocolate syrup, but with the addition of mint syrup, too.

Shamrock Mocha: similar to the Hot Chocolate, but comes up with a shot espresso.

McDonald’s is on a journey to be better and part of that journey is a commitment to evolving our food and beverage offerings,” Jeanette DeBartolo, a McDonald’s spokeswoman shared. “McDonald’s changes have touched our food and restaurant experience to better meet the changing needs of our customers.”

Save The Seed Love Brunch To Support The Mustard Seed Home

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This past Winter, The Mustard Seed Foundation announced that in 2017 would they need to find a new home for their foundation, reaching out to their community of supporters and the city of Dayton to help them raise $60,000 towards a new location. Now being being less than 60 days from needing to vacate their present home and $25,000 left to raise for a down payment, they can see the light at the end of the tunnel but still need help in keeping a roof over their young families’ heads.

The Mustard Seed Foundation addresses the physical, social, and educational needs of teen mothers and their children. Providing a safe, secure and supportive environment clients are able to break through barriers and reduce the percentage of child abuse and neglect cases and multiple unplanned pregnancies. Additionally, their programs assist with completing educational goals which will enable them to become self-sufficient.

This Saturday, February 11th, De Lish Café will host a Brunch to support the foundation. In addition to a spectacular brunch created by the chef at De’Lish, they will have a dessert auction featuring tasty treats from Dayton favorites:

Loyal Tee’s Custom Cakes LLC
*

It’z All Goode Catering
*

Twist Cupcakery
*

Cake, Hope, and Love
*

Tricia’s Delicious Catering
*

SWEET RAIN Desserts
*

ele Cake Company 
*

Bless Me Sweets
*

Cakes in the Jar
*

Sugar Sweets by Peeks
*

Butter, Baking and Bacon

Tickets are nearly sold out, but if you would like to purchase tickets to attend you can do so at http://tmsfofdayton.org/lovebrunch/ or in person at The Mustard Seed Foundation office. 

** ALL OF THE AUCTION MONEY WILL GO DIRECTLY TO THE MUSTARD SEED FOUNDATION. **

Founder Shondale Atkinson

Since opening its doors, the Mustard Seed, it’s Founder Shondale Atkinson and team have been committed to empowering pregnant and parenting adolescent moms and their children to achieve their highest potential. Through education, leadership skills, and self-respect; we are ultimately breaking the cycle of family abuse, neglect, and poverty. Providing a variety of programs and services focused on four critical need areas, residential, health/wellness outreach, prevention & awareness the Foundation has had a positive impact on teen development, the lives and families of these young girls who so urgently needed their services.

If you are not able to attend the Brunch this Saturday, donations towards this final push of $25,000 can be made here http://tmsfofdayton.org/96-2/donate/

Love In Lights

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Let your love light shine with a special Valentines Day photo shoot! Knack Creative is illuminating your love with the help of Event Lites.

Nicole and Richard at Knack Creative with Event Lites

From February 12 through February 14, you can make an appointment to stop by Knack Creative’s newly-opened studio space for a mini shoot with your mini humans or your special someone. Event Lites are providing their brand new life sized marquee lights that spell out L-O-V-E for the perfect backdrop.

All the details:
– sessions available the 12th, 13th and 14th
– $85 for a 20-minute portait session
– at least 6 final, edited digital files included (delivered within two days of the session)
– online gallery for viewing and sharing your images and ordering prints, if you’d like!

You can find all of the information on the event page here or just go ahead and schedule your session here.