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

Archives for June 2018

De’Lish Announces the End is Near

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We can’t say we’re surprised at the latest news from De’Lish Cafe on North Main Street.  Back in May they announced:

 

De’Lish Cafe will be closed for normal business from May 9th- June 12th.  We will be open for private events and functions only.

This was a signal to most that a big change was coming. Then today owner Jasmine Brown posted the following message today on her Facebook page:
“As I am sitting here writing this, I am tearing up. This message is to let everyone know that De’Lish will be closing July 31, 2018 for good.
My family and I have given this city 8 long and hard years of our lives. We have had good times and we have had bad times.
It is time for us to move on to try something different. I have prayed over this decision for the last few months. I must say that I have been happier and less stressed out while taking this time off. Originally we were going to open back up today, but instead we will be opening Sunday, July 1, 2018 to give everyone one last month of De’Lish. 

In the coming weeks I would love to hear what menu items my guests would like to see as we will have a limited menu….

We would like to say thank you to everyone that has spent one red cent at our establishment. You have made it possible for me to not only take care of my family, but for me to be able to give back to my community which is a true blessing.”
From there she went on to share how the business was not her dream:
When my husband came to me with the idea of wanting to open a restaurant I said “NO!” The best thing I could’ve ever done was to listen to him and be submissive to his wants. For that I am forever thankful, grateful and humbled.
When her husband and business partner Willie Hutson Jr passed away in March of 2016 the fate of the business was in Jasmine’s hands. “Running a business is no easy task, especially when your helpmate is gone. I have tried for the last two years,” she shared. 
Her post ends with an invite to visit during their final month:

“At the end of July we will have one BIG DE’LISH PARTY and party like we’ve never partied before! I invite  you into our home for one last month, one last time, one last meal..
Thank you all for inviting us into your homes, lives and stomachs!
We will forever be indebted….Love Always,
Jasmine, Evian & Willie III”
As a former restaurateur, I understand exactly how difficult this decision was to come to and I applaud Jasmine for the years of dedication and service she gave to De’Lish and the community and wish her well on the next chapter in her life.

The Donk! Kettering’s Buckin’ Donkey is Kicking !

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The Frosted Flake French Toast Sandwich

Once upon a time there was the Buckin’ Donkey on Wilmington Pike.  After some admitted mistakes by management, it closed, only to be reborn a couple of years later at the Moraine/Kettering border at 2866 S Dixie Dr.  Owner Sean McKown is hitting his groove almost a year in, and the feedback from customers has been tremendous.

If you are true foodie, you need to check this place out for your own Food Adventure.

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY ON BUCKIN’ DONKEY:

— All of the food items are made from scratch , except the veggie burger patty and breads.  Decades of experience at other restaurants, is highlighted in the Buckin’ Donkey’s food offerings.

— The atmosphere is of a bar, with a sports slant, but don’t let that fool you.  There full kitchen menu is as full as their bar selections.

Old Chicago Style Beef on Weck

— The owner has developed relationships with Ohio craft beer companies and carries a nice choice of revolving beers on tap.

— The menu is uh.. UNIQUE… it is a bachelor pad meets sports bar type of menu.  Over the top, inventive sandwiches and burgers, and some of the best pies around.  Our tip here is try it, you might like it, no matter how crazy the menu item sounds.

— The Buckin Donkey is known to have few Steelers Fans in the house, but is friendly to all sports fans.  Owner Sean McKown is a Pittsburgh native, who has been in Dayton for over 20 years.  Decor and menu items show a Pittsburgh and Polish food influence.

 

We have discovered some NEW “MUST EATS” from our various visits over the past year and we just had to share them, along with some old favorites.  So without further delay, Food Adventures presents the “Must Eats” for the DONK !

 

MUST EATS at THE BUCKIN’ DONKEY:

— FROSTED FLAKE FRENCH TOAST SANDWICH (Only available on brunch menu Saturday and Sunday 11am-2pm)
Sausage, Bacon , Egg and Cheese in between 2 slices of Frosted Flake French toast. Add hash browns for a buck. This is a guilty pleasure worthy of the Food Network.

— OLD CHICAGO STYLE BEEF ON WECK:
This is the menu item that shuts up the nay sayers. Some of our friends are addicted to this item, it is all they will order. Served with “au jus” it is one hell of a dipping good time. And one hell of a sandwich with Italian style, sliced beef, roasted in its own juices.

—HOMEMADE JAMBALAYA
Ever have a cup of something incredible? This is one of those times. Spicy and flavorful, it needs a squirt of Tabasco sauce and you are in dream land. It has rice, sausage and just the right flavorings. Bucking Donkey also has fantastic GUMBO !

Cajun Turkey Pizza

— PEANUT BUTTER PIE
Sean makes his own pies. This one is his specialty. It is one rich, delicious dessert. This is the start of your pie addiction at the “ba donk a donk…. If you like peanut butter.. open up and say Oh my!

— THE CAJUN TURKEY PIZZA
In a world of pizza, this one is unique. It is the typical Dayton thin crust, but the splash of Cajun seasoning and Cajun flavored turkey works with the cheese.

— THE BREAKFAST BURGER (Only available on brunch menu Saturday and Sunday 11am-2pm)
This is a monster creation, must have been dreamed up in Sean’s bachelor pad or college days. It is their beef and sausage patty, served on a fresh biscuit, topped with egg, sausage gravy, hash browns and melted cheddar cheese. This is a brunch choice that your taste buds won’t soon forget. It works. It is a home run !

— THE PIEROGIE BURGER
Their typical burger topped with two whole pierogies. It turns that first bite into a creamy bite of deliciousness. This is a perfect example of the Pittsburgh / Polish heritage influence often seen on the menu. These are the creations you wont see anywhere else,.

Homemade Blackberry Pie

— BLACKBERRY PIE
So flavorful,. so unique. Again, a homemade specialty from Sean’s kitchen. It is a perfect refreshing dessert for summer and is usually served cold. The whipped topping brings just the right amount of creaminess.

HONORABLE MENTION:
We would be remiss if we did mention two more menu items: first the “PORKY THE PIG DONUT BURGER” which is a mixed beef and pork patty, topped with 3 strips of bacon and american cheese served on a glazed doughnut. Yeah its nutz.

How about the “FOUR CHEESE GRILLED CHEESE?” The sandwich has a blend of Swiss, American, provolone, and Parmesan cheeses served on thick Texas toast, and grilled to perfection.

 

WHEW !!! What a list. What a kickin’ menu. They are bucking the traditional menu items, and they are doing it with friendly service. The waitress and bartenders are always attentive and excited to share the latest specials. They enjoy the food as much as we do.

The bar area

 

The infamous BREAKFAST BURGER

THE BLT

Peanut Butter Pie

Hash Browns

BLT SANDWICH

DINING ROOM

Grilled cheese

Take advantage of the return of the BUCKIN’ DONKEY and stop by the restaurant. They are located in the former “Murray’s Place” on S. Dixie. There is a small patio too, but the real attraction is the menu. The wacky concoctions make for a one of a kind eating experience. Next up on their creation list is the ABE FROMAN “THE SAUSAGE KING OF CHICAGO” PIZZA – It will have 3 types of sausage with a healthy dose of cheese. We can’t wait for our next Food Adventure at the Buckin’ Donkey !

Thanks for reading our article. We have a new one every week right here on MostMetro. Feel free to follow our Food Adventures blog on Facebook by clicking HERE.

Alzheimer’s Association Longest Day Hosts Awareness & Fundraisers Thurs, June 21st

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 Each year on the summer solstice, which falls on Thursday, June 21 in 2018, the Alzheimer’s Association hosts The Longest Day, a global movement and team event to raise funds and awareness for Alzheimer’s disease. The Miami Valley Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association invites the entire community to join the fight to end Alzheimer’s and participate in The Longest Day activities and events happening in the area.

 

From sunrise to sunset on Thursday, June 21, teams across the Miami Valley will participate in activities they love to honor those living with the disease and their caregivers. Funds raised from The Longest Day – which occurs during Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month – will support the Association’s care and support programs and help to advance research toward the first survivor of Alzheimer’s disease.

 

“For those facing Alzheimer’s, every day is the longest day,” said Eric VanVlymen, Executive Director of the Alzheimer’s Association Miami Valley Chapter and Regional Director for Ohio, Michigan and West Virginia. “We encourage people in our community to come together and participate in activities they love – or an activity loved by someone affected by the disease – to show people with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers that they’re not alone in the fight.”

 

Examples of fundraising events organized by The Longest Day teams in the Miami Valley include “A Day of Movement” taking place on Thursday, June 21, which involves sunrise to sunset fitness activities hosted by area health and wellness organizations, and “Ride to Remember” on Sunday, June 23, a benefit motorcycle ride culminating in a celebration with live music and barbeque. One volunteer, Steve Schwalbach, will be running from Dayton to Cincinnati on Sunday, June 23, departing from RiverScape MetroPark in Dayton at midnight and running a total distance of 85 miles to Smale Riverfront Park in Cincinnati.

 

An estimated 5.7 million Americans of all ages are living with Alzheimer’s disease, a number that is expected to rise as the population of older adults increases. Today, Alzheimer’s is the sixth-leading cause of death in Ohio, and the only top 10 cause of death in the United States that cannot be prevented, cured or slowed.

 

Those interested in participating in The Longest Day are invited to start or join a team, at alz.org/thelongestday or contact Emily Gamble, Special Events Coordinator, Alzheimer’s Association Miami Valley Chapter at [email protected] or 937.610.7008. A complete calendar of local fundraising events is available at alz.org/dayton.

 

Crafting A Career: Maria Gossard

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maria-head.jpg

Maria Gossard, Owner/Creative Director of Think Printing & Maria Gossard Designs

Maria Gossard overcame significant health obstacles to develop her business featuring beautiful paper, stunning designs and artisanal printing done with close attention to the customer’s vision.

In the beginning…

Maria Gossard grew up surrounded by her extended family in Cyprus. Her English mother and Greek Cypriot father loved growing things and they raised much of their own food on their farm on the Mediterranean coast. “We worked hard and we played hard”.


When did Maria come to the U.S.?One of Maria’s aunts was an amazing seamstress. “She would allow me two scraps, so I could do dresses for my dolls”. After Maria learned how to sew, she decided, “I’m going to design clothes for me, not because I couldn’t go buy them, but because I found those more interesting. It was an art form”.

One of six children, Maria was conscious of the fact that American universities were half the price of English ones. Consequently, she enrolled at Bob Jones University in South Carolina as a biology major with the intention of pursuing her lifelong love of the ocean by becoming a marine biologist.

Cyprus 1One night, friends invited her to go to the Art Department. Despite her limited exposure to art classes, “I just fell in love. I never knew that you could have a career in art”. Her “Greek grandfather was a carpenter. He was also a sculptor, but not for a living,” so she grew up thinking “art is what you do on the side”.

“I started doing research and talking to other art majors, ‘How are you going to make a living with this?’” After many conversations with her father, she switched her major to Art & Design. “I took off. It became effortless for me”.

Did Maria continue with Art & Design after she graduated?

After graduation, Maria secured a visa to remain in the U.S. for two years of practical training. She got a position as a “rendering artist with a leading design firm in Washington, D.C., which specialized in palatial residences throughout the Middle East”. Her goal was “to learn as much as I can, but I’m heading back”.

The job was very competitive with a cutthroat atmosphere; 60 to 80 hour weeks were the norm. “Reps visiting from top manufacturers would say, ‘we can cut the tension with a knife’. It was probably the toughest time of my life, but that’s where I learned; where my game was elevated”.

Did Maria remain in that environment?

A year before Maria intended to return to Cyprus, she met her husband, Paul. “He was my kismet”. LexisNexis recruited Paul to come to Dayton, Ohio. “The money was really good, but who lives in Dayton, Ohio? We agreed to try it out for a year. And that was 29 years ago”.

While Maria raised their four children, she freelanced as a designer specializing in interior and product design. “I would design products for the home and garden, then I would sell the ideas to other companies”. Her friend, the owner of Terra Cotta, a store in Columbus, saw some garden markers Maria made for her own garden and offered to sell them. Inspired by that success, “I went to a show with them and a big company said, ‘we’ll give you a $250,000 opening order’”. She quickly discovered “they dangle this carrot in front of you, then they justify stealing the product from you eventually after the first order, having the product mass-produced overseas, and putting you out of business”.

“In this big fish eat the smaller fish kind of world, I learned fast that anything new in the market is yours for one season”. Accordingly, Maria decided just to sell her ideas as prototypes. “That kind of kept me happy for a few years while the kids were growing up”.

 How did Maria get into the printing business?

Maria’s printer decided to retire and approached her to take over their downtown Dayton business-to-business operation, Think Printing. Maria and Paul decided to buy it. “We revamped it, modernized it, turned a 30% profit the first year and then, the big crash happened in 2008”.

Despite the economic downturn and changes in the business landscape, Maria pressed on. But, “after a few years, I got really sick with Lyme disease”.

How did Lyme affect Maria?

“I was misdiagnosed for 10 years, so I kept losing quality of life. Intuitively, I knew something was very wrong. I felt like I was dying from the inside. I couldn’t even get out of bed. I couldn’t walk from my bedroom to my kitchen. I forgot my purpose. The disease kind of rapes you of every energy and every positive thinking”.

“You go to a complete place of helplessness and hopelessness; helplessness is one thing, but hopelessness is a really dark place. But when your brain isn’t working anymore, you’re in this constant brain fog and your body aches, it’s beyond depression; it’s really, really dark. I could no longer participate in my life. I went from being a producer to being a survivor”.

Fortunately Maria’s office manager, Jeff Firestone, had already joined the business. He “became my right hand, very organized, very great work ethic, good with machinery. He actually was able to run it for me. He was amazing”.

Did Maria recover?

Finally Maria found doctors who diagnosed her Lyme disease; recovery took five years. “That time in my life was a time of fasting, praying, seeking just God’s healing. God had my complete attention. He actually showed me things in me that had to change, so it was a spiritual and physical healing”.

“I’m still recovering. Every now and then I’ll get this burst, ‘I’m actually thinking, I’m actually producing again!’ It’s going to be two years that I’m completely Lyme disease free. Big difference, because my brain started working again. Lyme disease changes your life. I’m to the point that I cannot take a day for granted; every day is a gift”.

Why did Maria move the print shop to Cross Pointe Shopping Centre in Centerville, Ohio?

Think Printing DMS was struggling due to the economy and competition from big online printing companies.

Shop3When Maria’s son, Thomas, got married, “I realized how limited Dayton was in high-end specialized papers for invitations. There was no one in town doing engraving or letterpress. I thought ‘Okay, I’m going to take one more chance with the business before I decide to throw in the towel’”.

Relocating to Cross Pointe Shopping Centre in Centerville, Ohio allowed Maria to expand her market to individual consumers. “Immediately the reception and the climate and the whole direction was very strongly a positive ‘yes’”.

After a year in the new location, “we were just completely busting at the seams”. She hesitated to move, however, because she had a 5-year lease.

“I said, ‘Oh Lord, it would be so nice if I had a table to sit down with clients when they come in, especially brides, since we were doing more and more weddings, and space to showcase our work’”. A week later, the owners of Cross Pointe asked Maria to relocate since the daycare center next door needed more space.

How did this move affect Maria’s business?

Invitation2Maria officially launched Maria Gossard Designs in March 2016 with an expanded, trendsetting team. Jeff now works part-time, as he is back in school. Roger Owsley, a nationally recognized designer, leads the graphic division. Maria added an experienced silkscreen printer, Bobby Trimbach, to offer items such as golden edges silkscreened on invitations, and limited edition posters for bands and artists around the country.  A retired pressman, Mark Bundy, runs the recently acquired letterpress machines. “I’m proud of our fleet of Chandler & Price Co. manual letterpresses from the late 1800’s, 1909 and 1912”.

Chandler & Price Co letterpress
Chandler & Price Co letterpress

 How did Maria learn to operate a business?

When Maria was at a crossroads, trying to decide whether to continue or close, a client encouraged her to checkout Women in Business Networking. She did and decided to commit to their two-year Bridges to Success Mentoring Program, which required periodic training and monthly meetings with different mentors – CEOs or business owners.

“In that two-year process, I realized how much I still had to learn and how I had to grow as a person, because our success in the business world reflects our personal growth. And the 10 years that I had been so sick, I didn’t grow as a person. I shrank as a person”.

program & trimmingsShe invested in educational, entrepreneurial and leadership materials, and workshops with coaches like DaniJohnson.com. “I’m very involved with the mentoring program in the city and now I’m a mentor myself”.

What is Maria’s vision for the business?

Invitations set“Our dream is to bring to Dayton an elevated printing service that only exclusive neighborhoods in bigger cities have and help put our city on the map. It’s all about educating our community and serving them with products” so they don’t wish that they lived in New York, Chicago or Los Angeles. “Instead they’ll say, ‘I got this done in Dayton, Ohio’”.

Invitations set2

Maria’s observations:

  • Ask: “Why do you want to do what you want to do? What’s the purpose? What is your goal? Who is your mentor? Do you understand all the ins and outs?”
  • Understand: “entrepreneurs burn their relationships faster than anyone else, because it’s very stressful”.
  • “You can’t be all things. When you start a business, you cannot be the lawyer; you cannot be the accountant; you cannot be the networker, the one that sells, and the producer. You need a team…nobody can do all those things well”.
  • Avoid thinking: “I want it to happen fast; and if it doesn’t happen fast, I’m a failure. Nothing good in life happened overnight”. Place cards
  • “Having a supportive family is very important, too, and being honest with them, up front. ‘I’m going on this journey and it could be painful at times, it will definitely be stressful at times; is that okay with you?’”
  • “Always having that teachable spirit. I have to remind myself, I might be able to learn from this person or, if it was criticism, what can we learn from this experience? How can we tackle it better next time?”
  • “At the end of the day, can I sleep tonight, because the way I handled all my relationships, my projects, my peers, my clients, was honorable? That to me has far more value than anything else”.

“God has given me the opportunity to tap into my entire life experience and utilize everything I’ve been learning to actually be able to say I am having the best time of my life”.

To learn more about Maria Gossard Designs go to the website at: mariagossarddesigns.com

You can also find Invitations, fine paper, printing and design by Maria Gossard Design on the wedding planning website, the knot,at https://www.theknot.com/marketplace/maria-gossard-designs-centerville-oh-1064055, and on ETSY at https://www.mariagossarddesigns.com/etsy/

Invitation1
Maria Gossard Designs
175 E Alex Bell Rd #204
Centerville, OH 45459

Gem City Market receives $150,000 grant

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The U.S. Conference of Mayors and Wells Fargo announced that the Gem City Market is the winner of the 2018 CommunityWINS (Working/Investing in Neighborhood Stabilization) Grant for medium-sized cities.
The $150,000 grant award supports nonprofit organizations that promote long-term economic stability and quality of life in their communities. Mayor Nan Whaley accepted the award on behalf of the Greater Dayton Union Cooperative Initiative, the organization supporting the market, in Boston at the U.S. Conference of Mayors 86th Annual Meeting.

“We are thrilled that Gem City Market was selected by the U.S. Conference of Mayors and Wells Fargo for this award,” said Mayor Whaley. “The market will be an important asset for northwest Dayton, ensuring that residents have access to healthy food and other critical service. Their innovative model of community ownership will make sure that Dayton residents benefit from the market’s success.”

When it opens, Gem City Market will be a full-service, cooperatively-owned grocery store providing healthy food choices in the heart of a large food desert on Dayton’s west side. The store will be owned by its workers and by community members that purchase shares–including some sold at discounted rates for low-income residents–which will keep the wealth generated by the market within the community. Gem City Market is aiming to raise $4.2 million through a capital campaign and membership shares before it opens its doors in 2019, nearly half of which is already committed.

“The Gem City Market team is so honored to receive this award, and is especially grateful to Mayor Whaley for championing this project with her peer mayors,” said Lela Klein, the Executive Director of GDUCI and a board member of the Gem City Market. “We hope that once we are successful, our work in Dayton can be a model for other cities struggling with food deserts. It is so exciting to get this national recognition.”

For more information about Gem City Market, visit gemcitymarket.com.
For more information about the U.S. Conference of Mayors CommunityWINS program, visit usmayors.org/communitywins/.

Dayton at Work and Play: Stephen Mackell

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You wouldn’t think that a degree in economics and philosophy would lead to a farming career, but that’s what happened to Stephen Mackell. While he was a student at University of Dayton he volunteered at Mission of Mary Cooperative. Now he’s their Farm Manager. Mission of Mary is a non-profit organization working in East Dayton (619 Silver Lane) on issues of food insecurity.

“Our job is two-fold,” he told me. “First we grow food. Last year we grew 35,000 pounds of fresh produce on six urban farms. Second, we teach our neighbors how to grow their own food. Sometimes they have gardens at their homes, and sometimes they use one of our community gardens.”

“Some of the food we grow is donated to our neighbors who have emergency needs. The rest is sold at farmer’s markets or through farm shares. Neighbors who are having economic difficulties can buy the farm shares at a reduced price, and then get 10 to 15 pounds of vegetables each week from June through November.”

 

Luminaries of Dayton: Daniel C. Cooper

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What if Dayton had been named Cooperstown?

Seventeen days after the Treaty of Greenville, Judge Cleves Symmes of New Jersey, sold the seventh and eight ranges of his vast land holdings, between the Great Miami and Mad Rivers on one side and the little Miami on the other to Governor Arthur St. Clair, General Jonathan Dayton, General James Wilkinson, and Colonel Israel Ludlow. Jonathan Dayton was one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence but he never saw or visited his name-sake city. Gen. St. Clair employed Benjamin VanCleve and Daniel C. Cooper, a surveyor, to be their agent. Cooper blazed the trail from Fort Hamilton up the east bank of the Miami River to the mouth of the Mad River. The next expedition was conducted personally by Colonel Ludlow on November 4, 1795.

During the winter of 1795, forty six men in Cincinnati agreed to settle in the new town but when the time came, only nineteen responded. William Hamer and George Newcom were in charge of the two overland parties, which would follow the trail laid out previously by Cooper. Newcom’s party, walked the distance of 55 miles, taking two weeks to make the journey. The Samuel Thompson party made the journey in ten days, by pirogue. Benjamin VanCleve was one that helped propel the boat. It was a long narrow boat which had boards running along each side which walked those who would propel the boat. They would hold their poles against the bottom of the river near the head of the boat and bringing the ends of the poles to their shoulders and then walked slowly down the running board to the stern, returning at a quick pace to the bow for a new set. VanCleve, who surveyed with Daniel Cooper, was so impressed with the Dayton area, that it was his enthusiasm which enticed the settlers to make the journey.

Newcom’s Tavern was the first cabin erected, and soon the town was well under way, but trouble soon erupted in 1800, and the town nearly folded. Judge Cleves Symmes had not made good on his government land contract. The U. S. Government decided to increase their demand for payment from the original 68 cents per acre to 2 dollars per acre. Some of the Dayton settlers left town in disgust. In 1802, only five families remained in Dayton.

Cooper Female Academy

It was Daniel C. Cooper who came to the aid of the settlers. Most of all it was Cooper’s utmost faith in Dayton which moved him to action. Therefore a petition from his own hand was dispatched to Congress telling them what a hard time the Dayton people were having, how faithfully they had worked and how cruel it would be to dispossess them after such a good start. Cooper then took over on his own responsibility the title risk and bought outright from each settler his holdings, until practically the whole of Dayton was his. Because of Cooper’s generosity, the town was forever free of invalid titles and all future arrivals had their titles secured. Cooper donated land areas for churches, schools and businesses and even two cemeteries.

Daniel Cooper was the first surveyor, he also donated the land for the first graveyard located at Third and Main streets in 1805 and again donated land about 10 years later to establish the Fifth Street Graveyard located between Ludlow and Wilkinson streets. It was at his mill in 1799, that the first death was recorded, that of John Davis, and due to the death of Mr. Davis, the first fire department was established. Mr. Cooper also had the first distillery which was located on his farm in 1799, and he ran the first carriage in 1817.

“In no way did Daniel Cooper confer a greater benefit upon his town,” wrote Robert W. Steele in his history, “than by inducing a number of men of

superior education, character and business capacity to come here from his native New Jersey and other places between 1804 and 1808.” Charles Russell Greene, Joseph Pierce and Horatio Gates Phillips were among those men.

From the Roz Young series of articles written about Cooper and published in the Dayton Daily News in 1994, she writes:

On the morning of July 13, 1818, Phillips walked to Cooper’s house. “The church bell was delivered to my place this morning,” he said.
Cooper looked at his pocket watch. “There’s time to take it to the church before lunch,” he told Phillips. “I’ll pick it up directly.”

He fetched a wheelbarrow from his barn and pushed it to the store on the southeast corner of Second and Main. He set the wheelbarrow down by the bell where it rested on the gravel street. It never occurred to him to ask Phillips to help him load the bell on the wagon. It was heavy, and he tugged and pulled and strained to hoist it into the barrow. The veins on his forehead head stood out as the blood rushed through them as he struggled. Finally with the bell in the wheelbarrow, he started for the church.

He started down Second Street, but before he had gone very far, his hands lost their grasp on the barrow handles and he fell over in the street.

Daniel Cooper was dead. A blood vessel in his brain had burst.

When he died, Cooper was 45, the leading citizen of Dayton. He had a beautiful wife and a 6-year-old son. He had recently begun building a new home, which was planned to be the most imposing, elegant house in Dayton.

His death stunned the community.

Of all the land that Cooper gave to the city, only the plot he gave “for a public walk forever” still remains. The Montgomery County Public Library was built on the land, and for a few years the surrounding area was called Library Park. But finally the city fathers passed a resolution that it should be called Cooper Park.

Cooper Park Historical Marker

Near the rear entrance of the library the Montgomery County Historical Society erected a marker in 1974, which reads:

Cooper Park

Daniel C. Cooper (1773-1818) perhaps more than any other deserves to be called the founder of Dayton. A surveyor with Israel Ludlow, Cooper settled in Dayton in the summer of 1796 and became the titular owner of the town when the original proprietors defaulted. He platted the city, laying out broad streets “four poles wide” and built most of the early mills. Cooper served as Dayton’s first justice of the peace and as a member of the state legislature. He donated ground for a graveyard, lots for churches, schools and public buildings, as well as the land for this park.

Daniel Cooper died on July 13, 1818. He was the 28th interment at Woodland Cemetery having been removed from the old 5th Street Cemetery to Woodland on May 4, 1844. He is located in Section 55 Lot 1.

July 13, 2018 marks the 200th Anniversary of the death of Daniel Cooper. We hope you will come out to pay a visit to the “Father of Dayton” and thank him for putting the Gem City on the map.

Flip Flops = Free Smoothie

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It’s National Flip Flop Day and when you wear your flip flops into to any of the 600-plus Tropical Smoothie Cafe stores nationwide you’ll get a get a free limited-edition Sunshine Smoothie from 2-7pm today.  No coupon or purchase is needed to get the free special smoothie, which is a combination of orange, banana, pineapple and mango.

 The Atlanta-based chain’s annual National Flip Flop Day serves as a fundraiser for Camp Sunshine, a retreat for children with life-threatening illnesses and their families located in Maine.   The smoothies are 100% free, but customers are encouraged to contribute a little to Camp Sunshine to help the smoothie shop meet its goal.

“We started National Flip Flop Day as a fun summer event, but the ultimate goal is much greater than free smoothies,” said Mike Rotondo, Tropical Smoothie’s chief executive officer, in a statement. “We’re raising money to help families who are facing life’s worst circumstances.”

Guests can also make a donation of $5 by purchasing a Sunshine Key Fob, which will also get you a five percent discount at all Tropical Smoothie Cafe purchases for the remainder of 2018.

Tropical Smoothie Locations around the Miami Valley:

  • 1988 Miamisburg-Centerville Road, 
    Centerville, OH 45459
    9372919250
  • 26241 Far Hills Avenue,
    Centerville, OH 45459
    937-434-8699

  • 32307 Far Hills Ave. Shops of Oakwood,
    Dayton, OH 45419
    937 395-3525
  • 43195 Dayton Xenia Road Ste 770,
    Beavercreek, OH 45434
    937-426-8767

  • 52642 Colonel Glenn Hwy.,
    Fairborn, OH 45324
    937-429-1519

  • 66221 Old Troy Pk,
    Huber Heights, OH 45424
    937-235-8630

  • 711255 Reed Hartman Hwy, Suite D, Suite D
    Blue Ash, OH 45242
    513-832-1984

  • 8233 E. Home Rd.,
    Springfield, OH 45503
    937-342-1883

Pucker up! Sonic’s Pickle Juice Slush debutsMonday!

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Sonic’s news Pickle Juice Slush will hit drive-thru’s at all of its U.S. locations starting Monday, June 11th.

The pickle-flavored slushies will be joined by three other  classic snow cone flavors including Bahama Mama, Blue Hawaiian, Tiger’s Blood for a limited summer release.  SONIC’s icy-cold and colorful Snow Cone Slushes will give guests the ultimate taste of summer in a sippable, slurpable delight

When these menu additions were announced, Food & Wine was granted the opportunity to test the pickle-infused frozen drinks back in March. The outlet reported it tested the drink at Sonic’s headquarters in Oklahoma City.

” …  it’s surprisingly delicious (and makes a good accompaniment to burgers and/or tots and/or corn dogs.),” Food & Wine said in its review.

Left to right: Tiger’s Blood, Pickle Juice, Blue Hawaiian and Bahama Mama

“Sweet and tangy, the bright brine compensates for the over-savoriness you might have been worried about. You won’t understand why, but you’ll keep going back for more sips, likely until it’s all gone,” wrote Food and Wine magazine’s Maria Yagoda, who added that she found the drink a tad too sugary for her liking.

To celebrate the Pickle Juice and other Snow Cone Slushes, SONIC is releasing a Snapchat lens that transforms users into an icy-cold Pickle Juice Slush world for a limited time from June 11 through July 29.

The only-at-SONIC Pickle Juice Slush, along with the rest of the Snow Cone Slush flavors, can be enjoyed starting June 11 for half-price during happy hour and are customizable with any fruit add-ins such as lemon, strawberry, lime and pineapple or candy add-ins such as Popping Candy and NERDS® while supplies last.

House Hunting – Top 5 Tips from a Realtor

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House Hunting – Top 5 Tips from a Realtor

 

Tip 1: Know What You Want

In this fast paced market a buyer needs to know what they want! Take time to write down your “must haves” and your “deal breakers”. This process will help you narrow down your search and remember what you’ve seen. There may not always be time for a second showing with houses selling within hours of hitting the market. Taking notes on each home isn’t a bad idea either. After several they all can blur together so jotting down a few pros and cons of each is helpful.

 

Tip 2: Do a Drive By

Most realtors will portray the property in its best light;  so the fact that it’s on a busy street or has an eyesore behind it won’t usually show in the pictures. Is the yard large enough? I always hear; “wow the pictures made it look so much bigger?” Or, “I didn’t realize how close the houses were to each other”. Drive the area; is it close to the amenities you want, how far from work is it, is there a junkyard next door? The outside of a home is just as important as the inside!

 

Tip 3: Be Pre-Approved

Have that letter in hand! You don’t want to lose a house because you didn’t get the lender everything needed for pre-approval. It’s a lot of paperwork but worth it to be ready! Plus knowing your budget keeps your search realistic. There’s nothing worse than finding a perfect home and learning you can’t afford it.

 

Tip 4: Don’t Panic

It can be stressful house hunting when the inventory is low and you are on a timeline. The last thing you want to do is “panic purchase”. This is a big financial decision and you want to know you’ve made the right choice. This also ties back into Tip 1, knowing what you want helps you stay focused. If you lose a bidding war on a property; take the positive from it, now you know exactly what you want! Remember to stay calm and focused another home will come up.

 

Tip 5: Communicate with Your Realtor

With each house you see tell your Realtor what you liked and disliked. Take time to know the type of area you desire. Do you want to be close to grocery stores, close to a highway, a private setting, etc. All this helps us hunt down homes for you. If your budget, timeline or must haves change, let us know! Your Realtor is your closest ally during this process; good communication helps the process go smoothly.

 

 

 

Jessica Wert is a Realtor for Coldwell Banker Heritage; representing buyers and sellers in the Greater Miami Valley. Looking for more info? Feel free to contact Jessica at 937-806-7750 or [email protected]

 

 

Taco Bell Free Taco Giveaway

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Whether you’re a fan of the Golden State Warriors or not, you can cash in on their game three win at Taco Bell on Wednesday.  The fast-food chain announced on Thursday that it will be giving away free tacos on Wednesday, June 13, as part of its “Steal a Game, Steal a Taco” promotion with the National Basketball Association.

Taco Bell is giving away free Doritos Locos tacos across the United States next week.

 

On Wednesday evening, the Golden State Warriors triumphed over the Cleveland Cavaliers in a 110-102 game while on the road in Cleveland. Taco Bell pledged at the beginning of the NBA Championship series that if a team “steals” a game while on the road, the chain would give away free tacos across the US.

Customers can get their tacos from 2 pm to 6 pm on Thursday, June 13, while supplies last. All people have to do is show up at aTaco Bell and ask for the taco to receive one Doritos Locos taco free of charge.  No purchase is required, however patrons are limited to one taco.

Toxic Brew 5th Anniversary/Block Party

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Toxic Brewery Unveils the Grapefruit Yoga IPA at the Night Market this Friday June 12th

Toxic Brew Company opened the first craft brewery in Dayton, Ohio in June of 2013 after Dayton saw a 52 year beer drought in the city. In celebration of their 5-year anniversary, Toxic Brew Company, which is located at 431 E. 5th St., will be closing down Jackson St. next to the brewery to raise funds for We Care Arts from 1pm to 8pm on Saturday, June 9th.

“This year we want to make it more than just about the beer,” owner Shane Juhl says. “We have teamed up with a lot of great folks to bring in street vendors, food trucks, animals, live painting events, bands, DJ’s, and giant-sized outdoor games just to name a few.” We Care Arts is a local charity that believes in the healing power of creating and producing art that transforms physical, developmental and mental challenges into a future rich with possibilities. Located at Berkeley Center, 3035 Wilmington Pike, Kettering, OH, it’s a place where people with disabilities learn independence and build self-esteem. Those with emotional, mental and/or physical disabilities can come to the facility and create artwork which fosters confidence and empowerment.

Toxic will also be highlighting multiple local and independent street vendors this year which include Mike’s Bike Park, Salon Noir, Reclaimed Bell, Luna Gifts and Botanicals and more.  For entertainment, Dayton’s own NightBeast and Tino will perform beginning at 6pm. There will also be DJ sets throughout the day by Scratchmatic, Fatty Lumpkin, and DJ Nicky-T. You won’t have to go far for food as The Oregon District boasts some fantastic restaurants and the Drunken Waffle food truck will be on site. Craving something sweet? Look no further than Gypsy Lane Dessert Studio.

In addition, Toxic Brew has partnered with Dayton Sportical, Dayton’s adult sports/social group, to bring in outdoor games like cornhole, giant Jenga, and more. There will also be face painting for children and other live art demonstrations as well as pups to pet thanks to AdoptAPit Rescue.

 

 

‘Complete Works of William Shakespeare’ Review – Human Race Theatre Company – Three Noble Merrymen

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Incessantly silly and absolutely entertaining, The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) [revised] cuts loose with energetic glee at the Loft Theatre courtesy of the Human Race Theatre Company.

Bruce Cromer, Jordan Laroya and Shaun Patrick Tubbs star in the Human Race Theatre Company’s production of “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged), [revised].” (Photo by Immobulus Photography)


Written by Adam Long, Daniel Singer and Jess Winfield, Complete Works is an irreverent, witty tribute to the Bard’s 38 plays (give or take) solely relying on the improvisational and cohesive compatibility of only three actors. The script requires the cast to poke fun at the Bard and themselves with abandon, paying reverence when it’s due but also acknowledging the sheer artistic freedom derived from the zany pleasures of satire. As is humorously stated at one point, “We don’t have to do it justice – just do it!” Throughout the production, some jokes or bits land sharply while others feel strained, but that’s standard practice whether you’re at a comedy club or watching Saturday Night Live. It’s always dangerous when certain plays abide by an anything goes philosophy but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a good time watching it come to life. And a good time is on the menu as Bruce Cromer, Jordan Laroya, and Shaun Patrick Tubbs joyfully drive this wild ride through some of the greatest passages ever written.

Fittingly, the majority of the action covers Romeo and Juliet, Macbeth and Hamlet, three iconic pieces ripe for playful rediscovery under Aaron Vega’s breezy, interactive (introverts beware!), inspired, and pop culture-tinged direction. Whether ensuring certain lines are filled with rousing gospel fervor or a thick Scottish brogue or humorously paying homage to Hamilton, Black Panther or the rock god aura of Prince, Vega creates a rollicking playground of fun, using every bit of the Loft space from aisles to props. In fact, scenic designer Eric Barker, properties master Heather Powell, and sound designer Jay Brunner gives Vega all the comical tools he needs, especially familiar props from past Human Race productions such as the enormous teddy bear from The House presented earlier this season.


Local audiences have grown accustomed to seeing Cromer, one of the most acclaimed and widely respected Shakespearean actors in our region, taking the stage in a surefire leading capacity, but he navigates well in this team effort. Aware that everyone is on equal footing, he smoothly blends with Laroya and Tubbs, helping establish a good-natured rapport suggesting the trio have been pals for years. In fact, Tubbs, a Wright State University alumnus previously seen in the Human Race’s outstanding production of Jitney, is one of Cromer’s former students which aids in their chemistry. Specifically, Cromer is featured to great effect when he breaks from the Hamlet storyline to venture on a nostalgic detour into the backstory behind characters from Downton Abbey, resulting in a hilarious nervous breakdown. The extremely personable Tubbs, conveying stand-up comedian ease even during the show’s curtain speech, keeps the comedy flowing from his valiant Romeo to his kooky and aloof Julius Caesar. Laroya, a Human Race newcomer taking on the persona of being dashing and daft, is an energetic delight who effortlessly brings the show’s absurd frenzy to a calming state of beautiful pensiveness during his dynamic rendering of a Hamlet monologue.

You don’t have to love or understand Shakespeare to enjoy this romp. Leave your troubles outside and let the laughs take over.

The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) [revised] continues through June 17 at the Loft Theatre, 126 N. Main St., Dayton. 8 pm Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings; 7 pm Tuesday and Wednesdays evenings; and 2 pm Sunday matinees. There will be a post-show talkback after the June 10 performance. Tickets are $35-$50 for adults; $32-$46 for seniors; and $17.50-$25 for students. Prices vary depending on performance date and seating location. There are a limited number of $12 and $25 side area seats available for each performance. For tickets or more information, call (937) 228-3630 or visit humanracetheatre.org or ticketcenterstage.com.

 

 

Dayton’s Best Storytellers Compete for GrandSlam Title

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Jackie Andrews

Dayton’s Story Slam will host their second annual Grand Slam storytelling event on Tuesday, June 19th at Wiley’s Comedy Club in the Oregon District. For more than 10 years Dayton Story Slam has hosted these “Moth” inspired evenings, attracting a wide variety of storytellers and stories.

The open mic story nights welcome all tellers to the stage. The rules are simple. Stories told from the Story Slam stage must be true, told in the first person, given without notes and must be centered on the theme of the night. Stories are limited to five minutes and the night is hosted by Shelly Hulce and Bryan Suddith.

Bryan Suddith with 2017 Grand Slam Winner Bridget Flaherty,

The June 19 Grand Slam event welcomes back 6 winners from the last year as well as two of our most popular runners-up. Each of the storytellers are coming prepared with a personal true story on the theme of Finished.
Bridget Flaherty returns to defend her title from last year alongside a few other familiar names in Dayton storytelling. Sandra Combs, Nathan Collier, Jackie Andrews, Becky Koop, Melissa Muncie, Faith Robertson and Jude Walsh will all take the stage with their story.
Doors open on the 19th at Wiley’s at 6:30. Stories start at 7:00. Tickets are only $5, payable online or at the door.  Drinks and a menu of appetizers and desserts are available for purchase. For more information check out the Story Slam Dayton Facebook page.

MostMetro.com Ticket Giveaway:
For your chance to win a 4 pack of tickets for Tuesday’s show, leave a comment below on why you should get the tickets and we’ll pick a deserving commenter.   We’ll announce our winner Sunday night and leave the tickets at will call for you, to be claimed by showing a valid ID.

Daughtry Adds Huber Heights Date To Tour

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Grammy nominated and multi-platinum selling band Daughtry released their new single “Deep End” this week.

The anthemic first single will be featured on the band’s forthcoming 5th studio album Cage To Rattle, which is set for release on July 27th via 19 Recordings/RCA Records and is available for pre-order now.  Fans who pre-order the album will receive “Deep End” as well as “Backbone” as an instant download. Additionally, the group announced more tour dates in the US and overseas for this summer and fall, including a stop in Huber Heights, OH at Rose Music Center on Wednesday, August 15th.

 

Tickets for the Huber Heights show will go on sale to the public beginning 11am on Friday, June 22nd at www.Ticketmaster.com,www.Rosemusiccenter.com and the Rose Music Center Box Office. Charge by phone at 1.800.745.3000. *Ticket prices include parking and are subject to applicable Ticketmaster fees.  Dates, times and artists subject to change without notice. All events rain or shine.

For special fan club pre-sales and ticket information please visit www.daughtryofficial.com. For the newly announced dates in the US, every pair of tickets purchased online will include one physical CD copy of Cage To Rattle. Customers will receive an email from Ticketmaster with instructions on how to redeem their album.

“Deep End” was produced by Jacquire King (Niall Horan, Kings of Leon, James Bay) and co-written by Chris Daughtry.“ Cage to Rattle has been the most fun yet most challenging album we’ve ever made,” says Chris. “It’s a musical stew we’ve been cooking up for more than 2 years and we can’t wait to satisfy the appetites of our amazing fans who’ve been patiently waiting for this record!”

Jaquire King states, “the thought of working with Chris really intrigued me. Undoubtedly, he’s truly a great singer and we took the opportunity to go on a creative journey with his band to find something new for them. The outcome will showcase new dimension and inspiration that hopefully shows new and old fans the evolution of an artist.”

Daughtry have released four studio albums, scored four No. 1 hits and garnered 4 GRAMMY nominations. Additionally, the band has sold over 8 million albums and 16 million singles, as well as selling out concerts around the globe. At radio, the band has also earned four No. 1 singles, including the mulit-format hit No. 1 song “It’s Not Over.” Daughtry’s self-titled album was the fastest-selling rock debut in Soundscan history, and its follow up, Leave This Town, marked the quintet’s second consecutive No. 1 album. The band’s third album, Break The Spell, was certified GOLD within four weeks of its release, and their last studio effort, Baptized, produced the certified GOLD single, “Waiting For Superman.”

Appliance Recycling Weekend

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Montgomery County is hosting an Appliance Amnesty weekend, allowing residents to dispose of old appliances for free. Montgomery County Environmental Services offers special disposal programs to prevent illegal dumping, promote recycling, and protect our soil and waterways from pollution or contamination.

Residents can bring their appliances to the Montgomery County Solid Waste Transfer Facility, where licensed technicians will remove any refrigerant, such as Freon™, free of charge. Metal components will be recycled rather than placed in a landfill. Microwaves, small counter-top appliances or outdoor grills are not accepted as part of this program, but these items will be accepted for a nominal fee.

You can drop off your appliances at the Montgomery County Solid Waste Transfer Facility this weekend:

  • Friday, June 8  6 am to 8 pm
  • Saturday, June 9  8am to 3 pm
Montgomery County Solid Waste Transfer Facility is located at  1001 Encrete Ln, Dayton, OH 45459
Other ways to dispose of appliances:
Save up to $150 on your energy bill every year by letting DP&L pick up and recycle your old (working) refrigerator or freezer. Plus, they’ll pay you $50 per appliance. Get an additional $20 if you have an older, inefficient room air conditioner or dehumidifier we can pick up at the same time. They do the heavy lifting, and nearly 95% of the components will be reused or recycled.

It’s easy! Just click the button below or call 877-889-4765 to schedule your free pickup.

A representative will haul away your old appliance for FREE, take it to be recycled, and you will receive your rebate payment.

Schedule a Pickup

Did you know? An older model refrigerator or freezer can use up to 5 times as much electricity as a new, more energy efficient model. Removal could save you up to $150 annually. Get more energy-saving tips for appliances.