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Archives for May 2018

‘Get Out’ Star Thrown Out of Popeyes, Threatened With Police Call After Staff Error

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Los Angeles – Get Out star Lil Rel Howery, star of Fox’s upcoming Rel, slated to premiere this fall, shared a live Instagram account of being booted from a Popeyes Chicken location in Hollywood around 3 a.m. Saturday morning over a dispute following an order mistake made by Popeyes staff.

Footage can be viewed at Howery’s Instagram page.

Howery placed, according to footage, a $12 order, for which he displayed the receipt on camera. When the live feed began, the comedian was in a dispute with staff, saying his order was placed into another customer’s bag after a staff member assumed they were together. Howery asked for the food he paid for, and was refused. After he insisted, the staff told him to “come back tomorrow” to receive his order. He demanded his money back instead, and was told he was “trespassing” and ordered to leave.

Howery remained in the restaurant and demanded a refund, while management threatened to call the police.

“Call them!” he replied.

“Call the f**kin’ police – please! If you f**k me up, it’s gonna be a news story,” he said. “I didn’t do s**t wrong! You didn’t give me my f**kin’ food!”

When staff attempted to calm him, he shouted, “Y’all not black in America!”

“She told me to leave and come back tomorrow,” he yelled in outrage.

The Instagram story video was viewed around the world as dawn broke on the East Coast.

Howery finally agreed to leave when a young, black, female employee offered to pay him $12 from her pocket, concerned LAPD would be called in and escalate the situation. The comedian and actor declined her offer and left, citing fear of repercussions for the employee.

Howery had words for the fast food chicken chain.

“Popeyes, can I warn y’all right now? I have a f**kin’ TV show.”

He implied that the scenario might be portrayed in an episode of his sitcom this fall.

“This is a f**kin’ episode. You gave my food away. Give me my money back!”

Around 3:30 a.m. Pacific time, Howery returned to Instagram Story with more thoughts on the matter.

Prior to his breakout role in Academy Award winning horror film Get Out, Howery starred as the younger brother of fellow comedian Jerrod Carmichael on NBC’s short lived The Carmichael Show.

Carmichael serves as an executive producer of Rel, a multi-camera sitcom recently ordered to series by Fox.

7 Original Shorts to Premiere at Big Lens Film Festival

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The student filmmakers of Wright State University’s award-winning Motion Pictures Program will premiere their new thesis films at the 2018 Big Lens Film Festival at the Neon on May 27. This year’s festival will have two scheduled screenings of the films. The first screening starts at 5:30pm and the second will begin at 8pm, both ending with Q&A with the directors of the films.

Short films from Wright State’s Department of Theatre, Dance and Motion Pictures program have screened at top film festivals, including Sundance, and been Student Academy Award Nominees. Graduates of the WSU film program work in every aspect of Hollywood and independent film across the country. One WSU alum, Hannah Beachler, is the production designer of the smash hit BLACK PANTHER.

This year’s films dive into a number of contemporary issues and themes, including bullying, finding one’s identity in a digital age, familial relationships, racial tensions, loss, aging, and much more! Please note, these films do contain adult themes and language and may not be suitable for children under 15.

Tickets will be on sale for $10 through the Neon Box Office which is located at 130 East 5th Street in downtown Dayton.

 

Jana Kramer to Headline Hollywood Dayton Raceway Outdoor Festival on May 19

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Photo credit: Justin Higuchi

 

Your blazing summer is about to get even hotter as country music star Jana Kramer is set to headline the first leg of the Free Summer Concert Series at Hollywood Gaming, Dayton Raceway’s famous racino. 101.5 Hank FM believes that there’s a good chance that the concert will pull in quite the crowd. Kramer is not just any country singer; in 2013, she received the Academy of Country Music’s New Female Artist Award, and in 2016, she was nominated for the award for Female Vocalist of the Year. The former One Tree Hill and Dancing With the Stars regular has certainly come a long way.

This news is followed by Kramer’s recent reconciliation with former NFL player Mike Caussin. E News writes that the on-and-off couple recently sat down for the Whine Down with Jana Kramer podcast to discuss their reconciliation in public for the first time ever. As Caussin explains, “I don’t want to lose her. I don’t want to lose Jana. I don’t want to lose our family. I don’t want to lose what we’re trying to build.” So, as far as her personal life is concerned, Kramer will be in high spirits prior to her coming performance at Hollywood Gaming this May.

Ohio’s thriving concert scene will mean there will be plenty of music fans looking forward to the series of concerts. Apart from Jana Kramer, they already have plenty of other big name acts in line for their ongoing Free Summer Concert Series. The list includes the rock band Fuel, who’s currently celebrating the 20th anniversary release of their debut album Sunburn. Legendary 70s blues-rock outfit Foghat will also be playing at the venue very soon. And if you’re into funk, you’ll be pleased to know that George Clinton and Parliament/Funkadelic is also set to headline one of Hollywood Gaming’s upcoming free concerts.

It should come as no surprise that Hollywood Gaming is offering big-name performances for free to the public; it’s one of the simplest ways for a racino to diversify its audience. Whether or not concert-goers are into racing or casino gaming, the free concerts are a good way to spread the word about the venue. It’s actually a strategy that’s not unheard of – following their recent drop in gaming revenues and tourist numbers.

Even Las Vegas aka the Entertainment Capital of the World is now showcasing a much more varied array of entertainment. In an article by the Las Vegas Review-Journal, the city will soon open The MSG Sphere, a 360-foot tall and 500-foot wide spherical building which will primarily be used for musical performances. Thanks to a technique called “beamforming,” the thousands of tiny speakers that will be embedded in the building’s wall can be used to direct sound and music with the utmost precision, ensuring sound clarity at any location inside the venue. Vegas is already known for having some of the top stages and attractions in the world. PartyPoker lists 10 attractions in Vegas that, like the free concerts at the Dayton Raceway, are designed to appeal to visitors who want more than just to roll into a casino and play at a table until the early hours of the morning. In today’s digital world, America’s casinos are relying on good old fashioned entertainment to bring back the crowds. Because at the end of the day, people just want to be entertained with something unique.

If this casino/racino trend continues, we can expect more big names to follow in Jana Kramer’s musical footsteps in the coming months.

“Beers & Steers” at Kennedy Vineyard

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Located at: 3911 OH-722, New Madison, OH 45346

Do you love beer?  How about a good burger?  Are you a wine lover?  Like live music?  We have it all here for you.

Kennedy Vineyard and Big Rack Brewery in New Madison, Ohio are excited for an announcement.

They are teaming up with Food Adventures, DaytonDining and DaytonMostMetro.com to hold a special one night event called “BEERS and STEERS.”  It is a day an evening party filled with good food, craft beer, local wine and live music.

“Beers and Steers” will take place SATURDAY JUNE 30th.  The winery opens at 1pm, live music starts at 2pm, and dinner is served at 4pm.  Live music will continue into the evening and the vineyard will close at 10pm .

“Beers and Steers” will have Live Music all day

Tickets are $20 per person and includes admission, dinner, live music, and a drink ticket for wine or beer.  Additional drinks may be bought as a cash bar.  TICKETS MAY ONLY BE BOUGHT ONLINE BY CLICKING HERE.

Come relax and enjoy and incredible day at the vineyard. rain or shine (the party can be moved to the barn in case of bad weather).

Vineyard owners John and Louisa Kennedy will be serving their famous, thick local beef burgers and sides.  Dessert is also part of the deal.  There are patio seats, but feel free to bring your own lawn chairs if you like.

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY on KENNEDY VINEYARD:

— Known for the past few years as a winery with a cult following, the vineyard recently expanded.  In summer 2017, the family opened up Darke County’s first brewery “Big Rack Brewery” on the same grounds as the vineyard.

John Kennedy serving up homemade food

— Three generations live on the homestead, from grandma to the grandaughter.  All contribute to the working farm.  You may see some chickens and crops if you keep your eyes peeled.  Parts of the farm have been turned into the winery.  The tasting room is the old corn crib.  You may even get a welcome from the family’s young daughter, who is very sweet.

— John and Louisa Kennedy are the owners of the winery.  They have poured a lot of dedication and hard work into making the place a comfortable and delicious experience.  It is a welcoming spot and place that every Daytonian should visit.

Darke County’s first brewery

— Thirteen years ago, John’s mom started planting the grapes.  John, who grew up in the home, took over production and in 2014, the tasting room was opened.

—The Winery address is 3911 State Route 722, New Madison, Ohio.  It is just a few miles off of an exit on I-70 West not far from Greenville/Arcanum.

—Kennedy Vineyard’s philosophy is to make the wines in small batches. This keeps the wines young, and helps preserve the fruity flavors.  Many of the bottle’s labels are artwork from friends, family and customers.  Some are drawn from photos taken at the winery by friends or family.

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY ON “BEERS and STEERS”:

—WHEN:  SATURDAY JUNE 30th,
Winery opens 1pm – Beer and Wine Available
Live Music 2pm – 9pm
Dinner served 4pm
Winery Closes 10pm

Wine and Beer Bash on the grounds with live music

—WHERE: KENNEDY VINEYARD and BIG RACK BREWERY
3911 OH-722, New Madison, Ohio 45346

—WHAT:  “Beers and Steers” A cookout with live music, food and drink! You get a drink ticket for a beer or glass of wine, a dinner of a thick, local beef burger with sides and dessert. There will also be live music 2pm – 9pm. A Relaxing day at the vineyard – BRING A LAWNCHAIR if you want as patio seating is limited.  Cash bar for additional drinks open from 1pm – 10pm

—COST: $20 per person – TICKETS CAN ONLY BE BOUGHT ONLINE BY CLICKING HERE

 

See you for this beer, wine and food bash, with local eats and live music.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Salar’s Chef Margot Invites You To Dinner at Her House!

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While the repairs are being done to the Oregon District eatery that was damaged in a fire in late December, Salar Chef and Owner Margot Blondet is hosting a series of 3 pop up dinners at her home.  Guests will get to experience a five course dinner, that will feature a few Salar favorites as well as some brand new dishes being considered for the menu when the eatery reopens sometime this summer. No exact date has been set yet, but stay tuned for updates.

Damage was pretty extensive, so while the repairs were done, Chef decided it was also a good time for to refresh the look of the restaurant.  Gone will be the dark feel in the bar and dining room,  it will be light and bright, according to Chef.  She also shared she’s very excited about being able to expand the patio and add a pergola.

You can find out more from Margot herself by attending one of the three planned dinners coming up.  You can make a reservation by emailing with your choice of date to [email protected].

 

Here’s the menu for the first one this Saturday night:

 

 

 

Review Roundup: ‘Little Mermaid’ at Dayton Playhouse and ‘Bakersfield Mist’ at Dayton Theatre Guild

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Disney’s The Little Mermaid

(l to r) Steven Lakes (King Triton), Abby Stoffel (Ariel) and Chavin Medina (Flounder) appear in Dayton Playhouse’s production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid. (Photo by Art Fabian)


There’s a lot of cute charm under the sea as the Dayton Playhouse presents composer Alan Menken, librettist Doug Wright, and lyricists Howard Ashman and Glenn Slater’s 2008 musical adaptation of Disney’s The Little Mermaid.
Based on the tale by Hans Christian Andersen and directed by Matthew Smith, The Little Mermaid splashes forth as a decently sweet diversion admirably led by Abby Stoffel as the lovely Ariel, daughter of King Triton (Steven Lakes, looking toned and sounding great). Curious about the human world and longing to leave her ocean home, Ariel falls for handsome prince Eric (strong tenor Garrett Young), but is ultimately lured by treacherous sea witch Ursula (a deliciously evil Angelé Price in one of her finest performances) seeking to usurp Triton’s throne.

Stoffel is pleasant as the main focus (her tender rendition of “Part of Your World” is an early highlight), but the support she receives from Price as well as the entertaining trio of William ‘Kip” Moore (Sebastian), Samantha Creech (Scuttle), and Chavin Medina (Flounder) absolutely bolsters the action, which also features an energetic Brad Bishop as excitable Chef Louis (“Les Poissons”).
Smith’s artistic team includes music director Lorri B. Johnson-Topping (ensuring If Only Quartet is the standout it was written to be), scenic designer Chris “Red” Newman (whose imaginative instincts extend to filling Ariel’s hideaway with an array of eye-catching knickknacks), costumer Janet Powell (supplying  colorful contributions although Ariel’s skirt could be more elegantly distinguished), lighting designer Richard Lee Waldeck (utilizing warm ocean-inspired blues and greens), choreographers Kiersten Farmer and JuanGabriel Encarnacion, sound designer J. Gary Thompson, and projection designer Ray Zupp.

Interestingly, this feel-good production feels artistically at war with itself. Some moments reveal the Playhouse overstepping its bounds in terms of what they can do with space while other moments suggest they simply didn’t go far enough. Regardless of cohesive issues, if you loved the movie you’ll love this show.

Disney’s The Little Mermaid continues through May 20 at the Dayton Playhouse, 1301 E. Siebenthaler, Ave., Dayton. Performances are 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays. Tickets are $20 for adults and $18 or seniors, students and military. For more information, call (937) 424-8477 or visit daytonplayhouse.com.

 

Bakersfield Mist

Charles Larkowski (Lionel Percy) and Rachel Oprea (Maude Gutman) star in Dayton Theatre Guild’s production of Bakersfield Mist. (Photo by Craig Roberts)


Artistic authenticity and personal integrity are key factors fueling Stephen Sachs’ timely and topical 2014 two-hander Bakersfield Mist, which has received a firm local premiere at the Dayton Theatre Guild.

Fluidly directed by Doug Lloyd and set in Bakersfield, California, this relatable yet relatively thin dramedy concerns unemployed Maude Gutman (Rachel Oprea), a loud-mouthed loner thrilled to have discovered what may or may not be a Jackson Pollock original. For verification purposes, Maude invites sophisticated Lionel Percy (Charles Larkowski), former director of New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art, to her trailer park. Tension ensues, sparks fly, and feelings are hurt, but the old-fashioned reminder that polar opposites can find common ground ultimately arises.

Performed without intermission, Bakersfield is at its best when Maude and Lionel stop slinging insults and fully embrace the idea of connection. Both have emotionally scarred pasts, particularly Maude, and during these prized instances of vulnerability the play becomes more credible. After all, I question the believability of Lionel choosing to stay long past his welcome, especially when he’s on his way out the door only to be pulled in by Maude’s admiration for Law & Order. Even so, Larkowski particularly and marvelously delivers a passionate monologue professing Lionel’s love of art, and Oprea handles Maude’s investigatory brashness with earthy aplomb. In addition, Maude’s visually kooky world, encompassing beer bottle wind chimes, hamburger salt and pepper shakers, and a random bowling pin, is wonderfully realized by scenic designer Patrick Allyn Hayes with set dressing by Hayes, Deirdre Root, Mark Mickle, and Rick Flynn.

In our current political climate, and depending on your perspective, there’s something truly inspirational or truly unnerving about Maude. She seems to boldly represent those who feel they’ve been left behind, the ignored underdogs longing for what’s owed them. Laugh if you will but as the midterm election approaches, Sachs supplies a surprisingly cautionary tale of America’s great divide.
Bakersfield Mist continues through May 27 at the Dayton Theatre Guild, 430 Wayne Ave., Dayton. Performances are at 8 p.m. Fridays, 5 p.m. Saturdays, and 3 p.m. Sundays. Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for seniors, and $13 for students. For more information, call (937) 278-5993 or visit daytontheatreguild.org.

 

 

Van Buren Room To Open in August in Oregon District

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The Belle of Dayton Distillery will soon be expanding operations to include craft cocktails featuring its locally distilled spirits.  The distillery’s craft cocktail room is driven by House Bill 351 passed in 2016 sponsored by State Representatives Rick Perales (R-Beavercreek) and Anthony DeVitis (R-Green), allowing Ohio distilleries to serve their distilled spirits and other alcoholic beverages by the glass to be consumed on the facility’s premises.

The ‘Van Buren Room’ located at the Belle of Dayton (122 Van Buren St., downtown Dayton), will be adjacent to the distillery operations in the current tasting room/gift shop.  The Van Buren Room will be an intimate space, including windows looking into the federally bonded distillery, with an early 1900s look and feel.  The cocktail room will pay homage to the original Belle of Dayton bottle uncovered in pile of broken glass across from the secret downtown Dayton Prohibition-era speakeasy.

The Van Buren Room menu will feature classic cocktails with Belle of Dayton spirits along with rare and experimental releases.  The craft cocktail bar will also showcase locally produced craft beer in cans and bottles, other Ohio distilled spirits, and an extensive selection of the highest quality Gins, Bourbon, Scotch, & Rye Whiskies.

Since opening in 2014, the Belle of Dayton Distillery has won numerous international awards and recognition for its pot distilled, small batch spirits along with the prestigious Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco Wine and Spirits- the Best Spirits in the World.  The Van Buren Room will be set up and held to the same standards of quality, along with flawlessly executed drinks to create a world-renowned craft cocktail bar right here in Dayton.

The Belle of Dayton will continue distilling and bottling throughout renovations, but the tasting room/gift shop will be closed to the public until tentative opening date set for August 2018.  The Belle of Dayton is currently looking for qualified candidates for Bartenders who share the same creative passion for spirits. Interested? Email your resume to [email protected]

Country Music Sensation Jamey Johnson at JD Legends

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Country music artist Jamey Johnson is returning to JD Legends in Franklin for 2 nights this weekend.  After playing 5 years of sold out shows in a row, he’s coming back to JD Legends, this time for a 2-night set! May 19th is already sold out, so be sure to get your tickets for the May 20th 4:30pm show.

Hailing from Montgomery, Alabama, Jamey Johnson has been passionate about country music since a very young age. While serving in the US Marine Corps Reserve for eight years, Jamey would often play music to entertain the troops and his friends. Upon finishing his Marine service, he set out to pursue a career in country music. By 2000, he procured a gig opening for country legend David Allan Coe. This was just the beginning of Jamey’s long, successful musical career. After working closely with other well-known acts such as Gretchen Wilson, Trace Adkins, and Hank Williams, Jr., Jamey’s solo career began to take off.
In 2006, Jamey’s first single, The Dollar peaked at number 14 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs. Two years later, after helping to write multiple hits for George Strait and Trace Adkins, Jamey experienced more personal success with his single In Color, reaching number 9 on the country charts. Since then, he has experienced sustained success on the country charts and in top-tier music venues nationwide. He’s even collaborated with non-traditional acts such as Allison Kraus and Elvis Costello, sharing his passion with a wide variety of artists across many genres.
From early favorites such as The Dollar to Top 10 hits like In Color, Jamey will be playing all of the songs that you want to hear at JD Legends. He’s also been working hard at writing and producing new tunes, so fans should be in for a treat as he puts forth a blend of old favorites and debuts fresh songs. If his past shows are any indication, Legends will be rocking all night long and no fans will be going home disappointed after a night of dancing, singing, and enjoying the heartfelt country tunes of Jamey Johnson.

Walk The Walk- Taste The Trucks Friday in Wright Dunbar

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Five of Dayton’s veteran food trucks have joined together to present Taste The Trucks this Friday night as part of Wright Dunbar Inc’s annual Walk the Walk event.

West Third Street between Shannon and Broadway Streets will be shut down from 5-9pm so you can Taste The Trucks.  G’s Cue BBQ, HungerPaynes, McNasty’s, PA’s Pork, and The Wicked ‘Wich will be set up and ready to serve you. Each of the trucks will be presenting a brand new food item and you can try all five for just $20.  There will also be a vegetarian selection at each truck.  You can pre-purchase your truck ticket book online and avoid any lines, and speaking of lines, since each truck is just presenting one item, the service will be extremely quick, eliminating the long lines often found at other food truck gatherings. Tables and chairs will be set up, but you are encourage to bring your own lawn chairs and kick back and enjoy the live music presented by Premium Blend.

Walk the Walk refers to Dayton Region’s Walk of Fame, which highlights 170 of Dayton’s  outstanding and enduring personal or professional contributions to the community, nation and the world.  Visit the place where three exceptional men, Orville and Wilbur Wright, and Paul Laurence Dunbar called home.  We’ll be celebrating the 2018 honoree’s, who will be added to the Walk on September 27th at an induction luncheon to be held at the Sincalir Conference Center.

The 2018 honorees are:  Hannah Beachler, Major General George R. Crook, Dr. Richard A. DeWall, Robert C. Koepnick, Police Sergeant Lucius J. Rice and Policewoman Dora Burton Rice, and Julia Reichert.

Begin your visit at the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park, where KIDS LOT will have a children’s activity center set up, inviting the youngster to create dream catchers, space shuttles, and even their own Dayton Walk of Fame square.  There will also be a chance to pilot their own plane virtually, courtesy of Dayton’s Air Camp.

Making A Difference in Dayton: Officer Dyan Thomas

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When I heard that some Dayton police officers were armed with stuffed animals I had to know more.

I called Officer Dyan Thomas. In 2009 she became the first female assigned to patrol duties as a Dayton police motorcycle officer. Dyan rode up to me, dismounted, opened one of her saddlebags and pulled out her stuffed bunny


“I am a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church” Dyan explained. “The church asked what they could do to support the Dayton police and we came up with the idea of stuffed animals. They donated lots of stuffed animals, and then others did the same. There are now enough for every police motorcycle and cruiser.”

“Imagine any type of incident involving a family with a young child – things like a traffic accident or a domestic dispute of some kind. The adults are upset, which causes the child to be upset and even to cry, which causes the adults to be even more upset. When the police officer hands a stuffed animal to a child, the child is distracted. The child stops crying and focuses on the new toy. That relaxes the adults, and everything settles down.”

I think Dayton is lucky to have Officer Dyan Thomas on the job.

 

Start Your Summer at Block Party in the ‘Burg

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If you’re looking for a way to enjoy the warm weather this weekend, may I recommend the first Block Party in the ‘Burg on Saturday, May 19th from 9am to 8pm at Star City Brewing Company in Miamisburg. There you’ll find great beer, live music, local vendors, food trucks and fun!

This event dovetails with Miamisburg’s Spring Fling, which kicks off with a parade at 9:45am. Starting at 9am, you can get a great parking spot to watch the festivities at Star City Brewing. They will have Ohio Hunger Force One and Shantz Express food trucks set up and running bright and early!

At noon, they’re kicking off live music in the field adjacent to the brewery. The music will continue throughout the day till 8pm. That’s right – 8 hours of non stop local original music! These are really cool bands too (see schedule below). Lucky Star Brewery and Star City Brewing Company will have beer for sale in the field, along a great selection of local vendors selling one-of-a-kind items and treats (see vendor list below)

Entry is free! So bring your lawn chair or a blanket, and plan on spending the whole day! A portion of the day’s proceeds will be donated towards the Miamisburg Viking Boosters.

Music Schedule

12-2pm Rich Reuter & Friends (featuring members of Great Northern String Band)
2-4pm Slippery Creek
4-6pm Cherry Lee & The Hot Rod Hounds
6-8pm The New Old-Fashioned

The New Old-Fashioned is among the bands performing at the first annual Block Party in the ‘Burg on May 19, 2018. PHOTO BY JENNIFER TAYLOR.


On-site Vendors:

Tina’s Sweet Treats (A Gluten Free Bakery)
Barefoot Girl Soap Company LLC
JoshuaRed Design
The WoodenSchu, LLC
Heather’s Goodies
Twisted River Coffee Roaster LLC
Hidden Gemstones
Damsel In Defense
Color Street
Kreations by Debby
Pure Haven’s Live Toxic-Free with Liz Engel
BurgApparel
Perfectly Posh
Statements by Alex
…and more to be announced! If interested, please submit online athttps://daytonfun.wufoo.com/forms/m2dhjet0g8hnd4/

 

The Wedding Singer Will Have You Laughing All The Way Down The Aisle

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Dare to Defy Productions presents the hilarious musical comedy The Wedding Singer May 18-19 at the gorgeous Victoria Theatre.

This hit romantic comedy, based on the 1998 Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore film is coming to the Victoria Theatre for three performances only May 18 at 8:00 pm, May 19 at 2:00 pm and 8:00 pm. The musical celebrates the best pop songs of the 80’s and pop culture references and of course big hair!

“Very funny…laugh yourself silly! The most ingenious and amusing musical of a Hollywood film ever.” states The Wall Street Journal and “Full of knockout comic numbers!” writes Time Out New York.

The Wedding Singer received rave reviews from Broadway as the show’s popularity was extended into a second North American tour. This highly acclaimed musical comedy received five Tony Award nominations including “Best Musical,” eight Drama Desk Award nominations including “Outstanding Music” and three Drama League Award nominations including “Distinguished Production of a Musical.”

The show is about wannabe rock star Robbie Hart who puts on an awesome show as everyone’s favorite wedding singer. He’s the life of the party until he gets stood up at the altar. He turns into a total misery and vows to make every wedding as disastrous as his own. Things are taking a bad turn for Robbie until he meets Julia Sullivan, a sweet waitress who wins his heart – but she’s already engaged to a Wall Street shark! This 80’s musical will make you laugh out loud as you watch Robbie’s life and his fight to win over his new heartthrob.

 

It’s the decade that fashion forgot, but the music was hot!   Now audiences can re-live the 80’s with the funniest wedding of the decade- The Wedding Singer. Every person who attends The Wedding Singer will have the chance to win a vintage vinyl record featuring one of the biggest musical stars of the 80’s, thanks to Sixteen 37 Productions.


Tickets available through Ticket Center Stage. Visit the Box Office, call (937) 228-3630 or at www.ticketcenterstage.com.  

 MOSTMETRO.COM ticket Giveaway:  Leave us your favorite wedding song in the comments below and like and share this article for a chance to win tickets for this weekends show.  Winner will be announced on Wed night.

Quest For The Best BBQ

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BBQ is personal. BBQ is communal. BBQ at its core is primal. Meat slowed cooked over smoke. Simple. But not easy to do correctly.

 

BBQ is the only food that has a definition codified in Federal Law. Title 9 of The Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) defines it this way in Chapter III, Subchapter A, Part 319, Subpart C, Section 319.80

 

“Barbecued meats, such as product labeled “Beef Barbecue” or “Barbecued Pork,” shall be cooked by the direct action of dry heat resulting from the burning of hard wood or the hot coals therefrom for a sufficient period to assume the usual characteristics of a barbecued article, which include the formation of a brown crust on the surface and the rendering of surface fat. The product may be basted with a sauce during the cooking process. The weight of barbecued meat shall not exceed 70 percent of the weight of the fresh uncooked meat.”

 

I love BBQ and have traveled thousands of miles eating the best of Memphis, Alabama, St. Louis and Kansas City. I have learned a few things about BBQ. It is intensely personal. Whenever a chef or pitmaster spends 8, 10 or even 15 hours preparing a cut of pork or beef, you are eating the real fruit of labor. The rub, the mop, the sauce, all come from family recipes tested and tasted and tweaked over time.

 

BBQ is best enjoyed with family. Splitting plates. Telling stories. Savoring time around the table. Slow. Just like the preparation.
I’ve done some research and found that you don’t have to drive far for authentic BBQ. We have some great ‘cue right here in Dayton Ohio. Let me tell you about them. These are my favorites and if you like slow cooked smoky meat, they will be yours too. There are another 1/2 dozen places to get bbq in Dayton (that doesn’t count some remarkable food trucks). These folks are smoking ribs, brisket, pork, chicken and sausage over a real fire with real smoke. That’s the standard.

 

Hickory River BBQ (Regional Chain 6 locations Illinois and Ohio)
135 S Garber Dr, Tipp City, OH 45371
Hickory River in Tipp is worth the drive. Its a big family place and reminded me of the bigger Kansas City joints I have visited in recent years. By far the friendliest of my visits. My son and I split 4 ribs, brisket, a pulled pork sandwich and a 1/4 pound of the smoked sausage with two sides and drinks for under $30 dollars. My favorites here were the ribs and sausage. The pulled pork had a good amount of bark full of smokey flavor. My son says the mac and cheese was as good as he ever had. The slaw was fresh and made in-house.
Did I mention the prices and friendliness? I can’t wait to get back there. Tuesday’s are buck a bone rib nights.
Gotta Try: Smoked Sausage

 

1101 W Third St, Dayton, OH 45402
Texas Brisket and Texas attitude. By far the best brisket I have had in Ohio. Peppery, slow cooked, sliced right. Smoke ring and it had a good pull to it. Tender, but not pot roast falling apart. The sauce is kept behind the counter, ask for samples of both offerings. The sausage was great and the pulled pork sandwich was full of smoke and tender. Careful ordering the menu here. It get’s pricey fast. Pulled pork, sausage and a portion of brisket with two sides set me back almost $40 bucks. Ribs are sold by the slab and 1/2 slab only so we didn’t get to try them. Wings need to be ordered ahead by 20-30 minutes. Drink offerings are limited but beer is an option.
Gotta Try: Brisket

 

1334 Linden Ave, Dayton, OH 45410
Fatbacks is my go-to. It’s set up like the smaller joints in Memphis, which I love. His brisket is always tender and the best pulled pork is found here. His ribs have a sweet finish which I prefer. He also has a thing he calls a pig pop. It is the lower shank smoked slow and covered in a sweet sauce that almost candies on the rendered skin. Get one. No. Get two. Sides here are always great, from greens to slaw to beans.
PS. This guy is building smokers like the pros use when he isn’t feeding lunch to locals on Linden Ave.
Gotta Try: Pig Pop

 

OinkADoodleMoo (4 locations and WPAFB)
912 E Dorothy Ln, Dayton, OH 45419
I’d put Oink’s ribs against anyone in Dayton. I wish I could figure out the rub he uses there. The founders of Oink studied BBQ in Kansas City brought their newfangled smoking technology back home to Dayton and we benefit from that. Their ribs are never overcooked and always have a great smoke. I find their brisket to be a bit overdone and falling apart. Still tasty on a bun though! Wings. Get the wings. Smoked tender and soft and full of flavor. Not like your normal bar wings. The corn pudding should be a mandatory side. Brisket, wings, pulled pork and a few ribs and sides under $30 again. Perfect for a date or father/kid outing. Oink is also making burnt ends. A Kansas City invention.
Gotta Try: Ribs and get a side of the smoke potatoes

 

 

Combs BBQ Central
2223 Central Ave, Middletown, OH 45044
I really can’t say enough about this place. It’s out of range for lunch during the week but it quickly becoming my favorite on Saturday’s.
This laid-back spot is part of Downtown Middletown’s rebirth. These ribs are legit, always cooked perfect and the pulled pork has texture, great flavor and that spicy bark you want in every bite. Brisket doesn’t happen every day. Recently I was there when they had smoked an entire pot roast. Delicious on a bun with a touch of sauce. Prices are good and the service is tops and fast.
Gotta Try: Pulled Pork and Ribs
1001 S Main St, Englewood, OH 45322
Brisket. Check. Ribs. Check. Pulled pork. Check. The best wings in Dayton? Yes. You’ve got my word on it. They smoke wings in a marinade (a wet smoke) then cool them and deep fry them when you order. If you’ve never had them, get up there today. Crunchy outside with a soft smoky interior the wing is in a class all its own. The team of Company 7 is pushing the envelope with lunch specials and a drive-thru. That’s right. A bbq sandwich from a drive-thru. I’ve not timed it from Kettering, but I am considering it.
Bonus at Company 7…beer. More than 20 craft beers in cans and bottles and always a few Company 7 Brews on tap.
Gotta Try: Smoked Wings
I’m always looking for a new spot for great BBQ!  Tell us where yourgo-too place is for great ribs, brisket, pulled pork or barbecued chicken.
Speaking of BBQ- MostMetro.com and Bryan Suddith, a certified Kansas City Barbeque Society Judge are teaming up for a Dayton BBQ Tour! 
Join us this coming Saturday, Aug 4th at 1pm as we board the 937 Party Bus and we’ll visit OinkADoodle Moo, Fat Backs and Texas Beef and Cattle Company for this mobile meat feast.  We’ll make sure you get plenty to eat and  in between spots we’ll share a few brews on the bus and talk BBQ.  This tour  will be limited to just 12 people. $60 covers the bus transportation, beers and BBQ. Get your ticket here.

Centerville Arts Commission presents “Moving Expressions” featuring DCDC2

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The Centerville Arts Commission presents “Moving Expressions” at the Centerville High School Central Theater on Saturday, May 19, 2018 at 3:00 p.m. featuring DCDC2. The Central Theater is located at 500 East Franklin Street. The event is free and open to the public and tickets are not needed.

 

 

DCDC2 is the pre-professional ensemble for the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company. “Moving Expressions” will feature a sampler of contemporary dance works from its dance collection created by its resident choreographers. The program includes a moving tribute to the icon of civil rights, soul-stirring gospel expressions, lighthearted, energetic dances to an introspective journey within. Founded in 1975, by Founder Jeraldyne Blunden, DCDC2 – the pre-professional ensemble for the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company (DCDC) is a culturally diverse ensemble committed to arts integrated education, community engagement and university partnerships, as well as the professional development of college graduates and undergraduates preparing for professional careers.

DCDC2 provides a platform for emerging performers, teachers, and choreographers to hone their technical skills and showcase their artistic talent. DCDC2 has cultivated dance artists for DCDC’ professional company as well as for other national and international dance companies and productions.

 

Put These Free Music Events on Your Calendar!

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The city of Dayton has just announced the dates for their free summer music series that will be held at RiverScape MetroPark.

First up is the   Dayton Jazz Festival on June 9 from 1:00 pm to 9:00 pm. In July the city will have its Dayton Blues Festival from 1:00 pm to 9:00 pm, July 15. On September 2, from 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm, the city will put on the Dayton Reggae Festival. Talent lineup will be released closer to the events.
In celebration of the 4th of July, the annual Light in Flight Fireworks festival will be held on Tuesday, July 2 from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm with fireworks going off at 10:00.