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Archives for October 2019

‘Stained Glass’ Review – Playground Theatre & University of Dayton – Church Hurt Raging in the Storm

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It’s often said in certain circles that some of the worst people you’ll ever meet are in the church. Granted, there are a lot of evangelicals who have done wonders within their communities and across the globe, particularly the hard-scrabble work of those who have devoted their lives and Christian service as missionaries. Even so, due to the fact that human nature is a tremendously fickle beast, there are still evangelicals who manage to inflict or dabble in the practice of what is commonly known as church hurt. And it doesn’t take long for this weapon to destroy a person to the point that the Great Commission – the three-fold biblical practice of going out into the world to make disciples, baptize, and teach – ultimately falls on deaf ears. In fact, the wounds of church hurt, in word or deed, can be so destructive, painful and vilifying that some dare not step inside a church ever again.

Jillian Mitchell (Cinderella), Chris Jones (Pinocchio) and Jada Gee (Tinkerbell) in Playground Theatre and University of Dayton’s regional premiere of Ingrid DeSanctis’ “Stained Glass.” (Photo by Knack Creative)

Michelle Hayford portrays multiple roles in “Stained Glass.” (Photo by Knack Creative)

In Ingrid DeSanctis’ riveting, largely autobiographical drama Stained Glass, an O’Neill National Playwrights contest semi-finalist receiving a terrific regional premiere courtesy of Playground Theatre and the University of Dayton inside the Black Box Theatre of UD’s Fitz Hall, a young woman named Jewels (compelling Rae Buchanan) is the latest church hurt testimony. Even though she grew up adoring the enchanting biblical stories in Sunday School, particularly the Old Testament account of three men who survived a fiery furnace, Jewels has abandoned her spiritual roots based on the startling truth that her father, a Pentecostal preacher, had sexually inappropriate relationships for 20 years. When Jewels returns home to New Jersey for her father’s funeral at the same exact time of an impending storm, the past ultimately proves to be a huge kick in the gut. As if her homecoming wasn’t going to be sad or tense enough as funeral arrangements take shape, she decides to contact four women victimized by her father. Along the way, five fanciful characters – Tinkerbell (bubbly yet grounded Jada Gee), Moses (authoritatively friendly Chris Hahn), the Little Mermaid (beautifully expressive Michelle Hayford), Cinderella (sweet, concerned Jillian Mitchell), and Pinocchio (humorous Chris Jones) – offer flavorful, sprightly guidance within the framework of magical realism. As reality and fantasy collide, Jewels’ engaging journey of self-discovery, self-love, faith-building, and forgiveness remains insightful.

 

DeSanctis, Assistant Professor of Playwrighting at James Madison University in Harrisonburg, VA, creates a challenging, complex roadmap of shifting locales and sheer whimsicality, but directors Hayford, Jenna Valyn, and Hahn admirably join forces to ensure a quietly captivating experience ripe with intimacy, urgency, merriment, poignancy, and surprise. The strongest, most impactful moments arise in the uncomfortable exchanges between Jewels, dealing with her inner tumultuous storm, and the aforementioned women whose lives were altered by her father’s behavior (Val, Mrs. Clifton, Rose, and Sandy all seamlessly portrayed with excellently distinguished characteristics and varying moods by Hayford, costumed by Kehler Welland). In addition to the charming scenes of magical realism (including an unexpectedly gripping account of the Little Mermaid heightened by an emotive Hayford in the Act 1 finale), there’s also great interplay between Jewels and her mom (believably conflicted Amy Askins) and rebellious sister Tess (delightfully snarky Valyn). I question DeSanctis’ decision denying Jewels’ devoted boyfriend James (amiable A.J. Breslin at his most romantic) the chance to return to New Jersey with her for such a significant homecoming. Nonetheless, I find her intriguing examinations of the Bible, from Jesus saving the adulterous woman to the pivotal decision of Lot’s Wife to look back at the city she left behind, a central part of the play’s theological allure. The production is also bolstered by technical director Matthew Evans’ brilliant lighting design and wind ambience, Hahn’s atmospheric sound design, and Valyn’s efficient set design and character-conscious soundtrack.

 

One of the best new works Dayton has seen in 2019 and a topical character study against the backdrop of the #MeToo climate, Stained Glass strikingly resonates and is unquestionably thought-provoking. As Jewels’ mom tenderly reminds her, “Forgiveness is something mysterious. It’s hard to understand.”

Rae Buchanan (Jewels) and A.J. Breslin (James) in Playground Theatre and University of Dayton’s regional premiere of Ingrid DeSanctis’ “Stained Glass.” (Photo by Knack Creative)

 

Stained Glass continues through Oct. 26 in the Black Box Theatre of University of Dayton’s Fitz Hall, 1529 Brown St., Dayton. Performances are 7:30 p.m. Friday and 1:30 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday. Act One: 63 minutes; Act Two: 55 minutes. Tickets are $12 (general admission) and $8 (students and faculty). For tickets or more information, call (937) 229-3950 or visit udayton.edu/artssciences/academics/theatre/index.php. Also, a post-show talkback featuring DeSanctis will follow every performance.

 

CO-OP Fest brings Friday night fun, food and music to support Gem City Market!

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On Friday, October 25th, The Yellow Cab Tavern is excited to host CO-OP Dayton for their second annual CO-OP Fest, presented by IUE-CWA. With support from local labor unions and independent, cooperative, and employee-owned businesses, CO-OP Fest is a celebration of Dayton workers and cooperators. It is also a fundraiser for the Gem City Market incubator, Co-op Dayton. The event features some of Dayton’s finest food trucks, bands, poets, worker and cooperative initiatives, raffles, and games!

The musical acts include some seriously funky bands!

6:30pm – Deron Bell Band
8:00pm – Premium Blend Music
9:30pm – Freakquency

There will also be a tap takeover at the Yellow Cab’s bar with Fifth Street Brewpub, Dayton’s own Co-Op Brewery!

Founded in 2015, Co-op Dayton is committed to incubate cooperative businesses to bring sustainable jobs to Dayton and address Dayton’s food crisis through the Gem City Market co-op.

How to Go?

Friday, October 25th, 2019 at The Yellow Cab Tavern 

Cover starts at 5pm with food trucks and meet & greet

6pm the spoken word performances and live music begin.

$15 at the doors / $10 for Gem City Market co-op members.

The Bison and The Boar Introduce Brunch

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Preble County’s The Bison and The Boar will begin serving brunch every Saturday and Sunday from 11:00am – 3:00pm beginning Saturday, October 26th and Sunday, October 27th. The brunch menu will feature traditional brunch fare in addition to the Preble County restaurant’s more exotic offerings.
“I’m truly excited to finally offer brunch at Preble County’s steakhouse,” said Don Warfe, Executive Chef at The Bison and The Boar. “I’ve been granted the freedom to put my culinary skills to the test, and I plan on offering the best brunch options I can imagine.”
The Bison and The Boar offer fine dining, an extensive bar, a pair of party rooms, and now brunch. Their brunch menu will include shrimp and grits, omelettes, biscuits and gravy, Hill Family Farms free-range fried chicken with waffles, a variety of poutines and benedicts, along with additional dishes. As always, meals featuring the restaurant’s titular bison and boar will be available.
“Our offerings featuring bison and boar often take center stage,” Warfe said. “Now they’ll have to share the spotlight with incredible local free-range chicken from Hill Family Farms, seafood, eggs, and more on our brunch menu. If you haven’t visited The Bison and The Boar yet, having brunch with us is a great way to start!”

The Bison and The Boar

3377 US Route 35 E
West Alexandria, Ohio
(937) 839-4500
Brunch
Sat &  Sun 11am – 3pm

Dinner

Tuesday to Thursday 4pm-9pm (last seating)
Friday and Saturday 4pm-10pm (last seating)

Newport Aquarium Welcomes Baby Gators with BOGO Ticket Deal

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Learn about the Legend of the White Gators in Gator Alley at Newport Aquarium. Be awestruck by two of the rarest animals in the world – Snowball and Snowflake – in their new home.

Gator Alley provides Snowball and Snowflake with a well-lit environment where they will have more room for their natural behaviors. The new space also allows you to get up close and see them underwater.

Snowball, the male alligator, is a whopping eight feet long and weighs 175 pounds. Snowflake, the female, is six feet long and weighs about 95 pounds.

There are many legends about the sacred nature of white gators among Native American and Eastern cultures. Cajuns tell how gazing into the eyes of a white alligator can bring good luck and prosperity.

Newport Aquarium just announced the addition of two dozen adorable baby alligators to the popular Gator Alley collection of exhibits. Guests will have the opportunity to see baby alligators swimming in the bayou and basking on its banks. The aquarium is celebrating their growing family with a Bayou Baby BOGO offer. Through November 3rd, buy one general admission ticket and get one of equal or lesser value for free.

Newport Aquarium

The Newport Aquarium is open to the public 365 days a year. They are located only two minutes from downtown Cincinnati at Newport on the Levee. Hours are generally 10am – 6pm, occasionally special events extend those hours.

One Aquarium Way
Newport, KY 41071
1-800-406-3474

Ticket Prices:

ADULTAGES 13+ CHILDAGES 2-12
$2599 $1799

Buy your tickets online here.

McCoy on Movies: BLACK AND BLUE

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Cop drama toes line between reality and fiction to its advantage, target audience’s enjoyment

“OK, if they try to put Cardi B. in the next Fast & Furious movie, I’ll go – Wait! They already did it?!” New Orleans Police Officer Alicia West (Naomie Harris) prepares to fire on a would-be assailant as Mouse (Tyrese Gibson) looks on in a scene from director Deon Taylor’s action thriller BLACK AND BLUE. Credit: Alan Markfield © CTMG Inc. All rights reserved.

WATCH THE TRAILER(S) HERE:


 

KEY CAST MEMBERS: Naomie Harris, Tyrese Gibson, Frank Grillo, Mike Colter, Reid Scott, Beau Knapp, James Moses Black and Nafessa Williams DIRECTOR(S): Deon Taylor

THE BACK STORY: Alicia West (Naomie Harris) is many things. She’s a veteran with two tours in the Middle East. She’s a woman with no family now that her mother passed away earlier this year. And she’s a native of one of the most notorious wards that was done no favors by Hurricane Katrina.


Now, she’s a rookie member of the New Orleans Police Dept. working with her partner Jennings (Reid Scott) learning the beat. So, when Jennings begs her to take her place on a night shift, Alicia decides to take his place so he can go enjoy date night with his wife. 


Brown (James Moses Black), the veteran officer she’s with, isn’t the nicest fellow in the world, but he’s still a cop like Alicia so she respects him because, after all, they both back the badge. So, despite being told to stay in the car, once she hears gunshots, she’s going inside to make sure Brown isn’t in trouble.


Then she finds out Brown – along with narcotics officers Malone (Frank Grillo) and his partner (Beau Knapp) – are the ones she needs to be afraid of.

Aided only by an unlikely alliance with a local super market employee, Jackson “Mouse” Milo (Tyrese Gibson), Alicia is on the run to upload the footage on her body cam to put away the bad guys. But given that she’s now got (1) crooked cops after her; (2) local drug dealer Darius (Mike Colter) and his entire crew after her and (3) the ‘hood thinking she is the one behind a crime she didn’t commit, she’s going to be forced to make a choice: Is she more black than she is “blue” – and will it ultimately matter if no one believes her story.

THE REVIEW: On its surface, Black and Blue is a very easy movie to dismiss as it has a somewhat familiar premise (cop sees bad cops do bad stuff) and the inherent issues (African-Americans trust of the police, African-Americans in the line of police work – see HBO’s new take on Watchmen for more – etc.) within. What keeps Black and Blue from being another run-of-the-mill Training Day knockoff is how the cast and crew approach and deliver the story.Now, to be honest, there are plenty of things that will either enhance or detract from your Black and Blue viewing experiences, hence a need to explain them here. So, if you:

 

  1. Are African-American;
  2. See the film with an audience also full of minority members relating to the characters on screen in a prime example of groupthink; and
  3. Are familiar, either through the news or sadly, personal experience, with the types of police officers and “‘hood rules” present in the film, it will enhance your viewing experience.
On the flip side, if you:
  1. Are not African-American/a minority;
  2. Dismiss many of the stories in the news like this, or this, or this, or this, or this, or – I think you get the point; and
  3. Don’t believe life imitates art and vice-versa, well … Black and Blue will likely just come off as another crime caper that ventures a little bit too far into the ridiculous (there’s really only one or two incidents of that) to be anything significant.
That notwithstanding, Black and Blue works on a basic level as Harris’ makes her character intriguing despite her extreme naivety (the audience is almost ahead of her the entire movie) and the tense nature director Deon Taylor builds throughout the film. Given that Taylor’s most three recent feature lengths were the awful The Intruder (2019), the forgotten Traffik (2018) and the absolutely atrocious Meet the Blacks (2016), it seems he’s finally found a way to take his knowledge of African-American cultures and put them into a thriller that actually makes sense.
While the film doesn’t feature anyone who’s a standout name on their own (Harris is a solid actress but be honest, you probably couldn’t pick her out of a lineup by name if you don’t follow her career), Taylor uses his players well. Grillo is a quintessential character actor in the role of either a criminal or cop (check his IMDB for proof), Brown channels Bill Duke extremely well to the point you’ll find yourself surprised it’s NOT him and Gibson wisely follows Harris’ lead to move things along well. Mike Colter even does a nice job of showing he can play the opposite of his better known Luke Cage alter ego as the drug dealer heavy Darius. Of course, that’s what an actor is supposed to do, but it’s done with convincing fashion. It’s a trope, but it’s one that works. The story turns are easy to see coming, but again, thanks to the dedication of the cast, they don’t feel as stale as they otherwise would.
But to go back to the earlier checklists and why they are relevant to your enjoyment of Black and Blue, let me explain it like this: If you have experienced harassment by the individuals meant to protect and serve you, you will feel a connection to the characters in the film that are not law enforcement officials. If you are a minority trying to toe the thin blue line, you will understand all of the internal and external strife Harris’ character does being turned away by both officers and her own community. And even if you haven’t experienced it, if you have watched recent developments in America you will understand the impact of these things on both Harris’ character and others in the film. But, if you do not and worse yet, care not to know, Black and Blue will ultimately be a work of fiction and nothing more.
The reality is though all good works of fiction are stemmed in some form of truth – and Black and Blue has far too much reality around it to not make the fictional parts seem real, or, in the case for many, hope they could be, too.
OVERALL RATING (OUT OF FOUR POSSIBLE BUCKETS OF POPCORN):

‘Once on This Island’ Review – Victoria Theatre Association – Stronger Together

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Community is the driving force behind the sea of emotions fueling lyricist-librettist Lynn Ahrens and composer Stephen Flaherty’s wonderfully heartfelt, relevant, tuneful, and inspirational 1990 musical Once on This Island. As recent disasters and current events at home and abroad strike a deep chord, specifically the Memorial Day tornadoes in Dayton, it is all too clear how important this show has become since its inception and how outstanding it is on tour at the Schuster Center in its Ohio premiere courtesy of the Victoria Theatre Association’s Premier Health Broadway Series.

The cast of the North American tour of Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty’s “Once on This Island,” recipient of the 2018 Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical. The tour is presented by the Victoria Theatre Association’s Premier Health Broadway Series through Oct. 27 at the Schuster Center. (Photo by Joan Marcus)

 

The recipient of the 2018 Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical, Once on This Island, adapted from Rosa Guy’s novel My Love, My Love, is an ill-fated, haves vs. have nots, Caribbean-infused love story set in the French Antilles. As the islanders gather in the aftermath of a huge storm, a group of Storytellers share the tale of orphan Ti Moune (radiantly winsome and confident Courtnee Carter), a poor, dark-skinned peasant girl who boldly defies all logic in her valiant quest to win the heart of the wealthy, light-skinned Daniel Beauxhomme (charming tenor Tyler Hardwick). Despite the pleas and warnings of her devoted adoptive parents Mama Euralie (sincere yet formidable Broadway veteran Danielle Lee Greaves) and Tonton Julian (Tony nominee Phillip Boykin reprising his role from Broadway and gently displaying authoritative concern), impulsive Ti Moune throws caution to the wind and demands she leave home to journey to the other side of the island to care for the injured Daniel, whose car accident near the outset is the catalyst for their budding romance. As Ti Moune and Daniel ultimately grow closer causing rumors to fly and suspicions to swell, four gods (Agwe: Water; Asaka: Mother of the Earth; Papa Ge: Death; Erzulie: Love) closely monitor and converse with Ti Moune in an attempt to discover whether death or love is more powerful, especially villainous Papa Ge (dynamically disturbing American Idol alumna Tamyra Gray, reprising her role from Broadway and commanding the stage with a fierce strut, intimidating cloak, and husky demonic voice) who doesn’t forget Ti Moune’s startlingly determined declaration that she would give her life for Daniel.

Kyle Ramar Freeman as Asaka and Courtnee Carter as Ti Moune in “Once on This Island.” (Photo by Joan Marcus)

Ahrens and Flaherty, who won the Best Original Score Tony for 1998’s marvelous, timelessly topical Ragtime, terrifically capture the tropical essence and overall earnestness of the story and its inhabitants. Spirited opening number We Dance, a perfect example of the A&F songwriting pedigree, sets a wondrously introductory tone in the vein of Tradition from Fiddler on the Roof.  The equally upbeat finale Why We Tell the Story also thrives on communal joy and the significance of legacy. But an array of knockout solos is at the core of the score, among the most remarkable in the A&F canon. Carter, who understudied the role of Ti Moune on Broadway, pours superb longing, desire, innocence, vulnerability, and excitable frustration into Waiting for Life. Actor-musician Cassondra James, beautifully portraying Erzulie in addition to playing the flute, is a beguiling source of sophisticated grace and warmth throughout The Human Heart. Hardwick fills tender waltz Some Girls with clear introspection, allowing a vivid portal into Daniel’s inner conflict and responsibility. Colorful Kyle Ramar Freeman, a sensationally sassy Asaka, brings down the house with an electrifying Mama Will Provide, awesomely vocal riffing to the rafters while delectably sashaying to the hilt clothed in makeshift eleganza realness by costumer Clint Ramos.

The unique, progressive decision to have Freeman and Gray embody their particular roles is one of the great benefits of director Michael Arden’s luminous contributions. Reexamining gender identity works effortlessly in this context, particularly suggesting all communities should embrace equality and inclusivity simply due to the realization we are all more alike than we are different. Elsewhere, Arden, an environmental master whose detailed work here matches his splendid 2015 staging of Spring Awakening, supplies thrilling drama in Rain (heightened by Jahmaul Bakare’s strong vocals as Agwe and Jules Fisher and Peggy Eisenhauer’s stunningly evocative lighting design), cinematic stagecraft in Pray, and an inspired nod to late, legendary director Hal Prince in the historical Sad Tale of the Beauxhommes, an intriguing look at Daniel’s family lineage, customs and prejudice. Still, the smallest moments shine just as bright. In addition to being moved by the heartbreaking poignancy of Ti Moune quickly departing her home without hugging her parents at the conclusion of the tear-jerking Ti Moune, I totally felt the deflating shock and disappointment in Carter’s voice and demeanor when Ti Moune reaches Daniel’s bedside only to discover he has no recollection of her crucial caregiving during his recovery. Arden also gives choreographer Camille A. Brown ample opportunities to pulsate the action with earthy, exuberant, Afrocentric vigor, notably Ti Moune’s Dance dazzlingly led by Carter.

Danielle Lee Greaves as Mama Euralie and Phillip Boykin as Tonton Julian in “Once on This Island.” (Photo by Joan Marcus)

On Broadway, this production was intimately mounted in the round at Circle in the Square, placing the audience within reach of the action with eye-catching atmospherics including substantial amounts of sand, a large pool of water and a live goat. On tour, there are noticeable space constraints, especially center stage, and less sand and water to bolster ambience. No live animals are featured as well which is mostly disappointing for those with fond remembrances of the Broadway presentation. Even so, scenic designer Dane Laffrey’s exemplary set, efficiently comprised of scaffolding, a boat, a telephone pole, rows of onstage seating, sheets enveloping the proscenium, found objects and much more, is a visual treat. Shannon Slaton’s expertly moody sound design and music director Steven Cuevas’ vibrant orchestra, placed onstage above the actors, also boosts the show’s appeal.

In my estimation, this exhilarating, must-see production remains one of the finest musical revivals of the past decade, ranking on par with Pippin, The King and I, The Color Purple (slated for Dayton Valentine’s Day weekend), Hello, Dolly!, and Oklahoma! Arden and Co. have brilliantly reassessed Once on This Island’s potency at a time when its meaningful themes of acceptance, understanding and unity is under siege. America needs this show now more than ever due to its striking reminder that it takes all of us to keep the human heart beating.

 

Once on This Island continues through Oct. 27 at the Schuster Center, 1 W. Second St. Dayton. Performances are 7:30 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday; 8 p.m. Friday; 2 and 8 p.m. Saturday; and 1 and 6:30 p.m. Sunday. The musical is performed in 90 minutes without an intermission. Tickets are $26-$99. A limited number of onstage, bleacher-style seating is priced at $25. For tickets or more information, call Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630 or visit ticketcenterstage.com.

 

Take A Water Quiz For Chance to Win $100 Brewery Gift Card

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The Miami Conservancy District is all about water.  Protecting. Preserving. Promoting.  Their mission is protecting lives, property and economic vitality within the Great Miami River Watershed through an integrated and balanced system that provides unfailing flood protection, preserves water resources, and promotes enjoyment of our waterways. Some of the ways they do this include:

Flood Protection

People and businesses along the Great Miami River in southwest Ohio enjoy life without flooding concerns. MCD’s system of five dry dams, retarding basins, 55 miles of levees, and preserved floodplain provide a nearly unparalleled level of protection.

Water Stewardship

Water is the key to healthy people and healthy communities. MCD monitors and protects our region’s water.

Recreation

And water isn’t just for drinking. Rivers are outdoor playgrounds. MCD is working to bring more and more people to the river.

 

Take their 3-question quiz to learn about our region’s water and then you can  register to win a $100 gift card to one of the participating breweries or coffee shops listed below.

Great Water. Great Drinks.

Water. You drink it. You grow food in it. You flush your toilets with it. You literally can’t live without it. Without clean water you can’t live a healthy life. From agriculture to manufacturing, most sectors of our economy rely on water. Without water, our economy would grind to a halt. Yet most of us take water for granted.

It’s time to Value Water.

Participating Breweries
Toxic Brew, Dayton
Fifth Street Brewpub, Dayton
Branch and Bone Artisan Ales, Dayton
Lock 27 Brewing, Dayton
The Dayton Beer Company, Dayton
Warped Wing Brewing Company, Dayton
Eudora Brewing Company, Kettering
Mother Stewart’s Brewing, Springfield
Lucky Star Brewery and Cantina, Miamisburg
Star City Brewery, Miamisburg
Municipal Brew Works, Hamilton

Participating Coffee Shops
Third Perk Coffeehouse, Dayton
Curious Styles & Coffee Shop, Miamisburg
Reza’s Roast, Dayton
Triple Moon Coffee Company, Middletown

MasterChef Junior Serving Up Family Fun!

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Producers of the hit culinary competition series MASTERCHEF JUNIOR announced that after a successful initial 2019 tour they are extending MasterChef Junior Live! to more than 40 new markets in 2020, and is now coming to the Benjamin & Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center on Tuesday, March 17, 2020.

Tickets go on sale this Friday, October 25, 10 a.m. Tickets start at $35 and can be purchased at the Ticket Center Stage Box Office, by calling 937-228-3630 or (toll-free) 888-228-3630, or purchase online at ticketcenterstage.com.

 

Attended by packed audiences in 16 cities during its debut tour this fall, the extended seven-week tour will kick off in Rochester, NY on March 3, 2020, and will visit 40 additional markets across the U.S. including Boston, Brooklyn, Washington DC, Detroit, Chicago, Denver, and more. Tickets go on sale this Friday, October 25, at 10:00 AM Local Time and can be purchased at MasterChefJuniorLive.com.

 

“TCG is thrilled to continue to bring the fun of MasterChef Junior Live! to audiences in 2020.  The stage show brings great moments from the TV series to a LIVE setting.  Families will enjoy watching and participating in the show as much as we have enjoyed creating it,” said Stephen Cook, President of TCG Entertainment, Producer of MasterChef Junior Live!

 

“We were thrilled that MasterChef Junior Live! was so well received by audiences of all ages in our initial run and now we are excited to expand this special theatre experience to more than 40 new U.S. markets in 2020,” said Amber Sheppo, Senior Vice President, Licensing, Endemol Shine North America. “Alongside our partners at TCG Entertainment, we are giving families and fans of our hit series a chance to meet and learn first-hand from past MASTERCHEF JUNIOR winners and contestants in cities near them.”

MasterChef Junior Live! brings MASTERCHEF JUNIOR directly to fans and foodies alike…LIVE on stage! The family-friendly show will feature head-to-head cooking demonstrations and fun (sometimes messy!) challenges with past MASTERCHEF JUNIOR contestants, and an overall immersive audience experience fun for all ages. A limited number of VIP Packages will be available in all markets and will include a premium seat, cast meet and greets, Q&A sessions, a signed show poster, photos, and more!  Exclusive MasterChef Junior Live! merchandise will also be available for purchase.

 

MasterChef Junior Live! cast to be announced at a later date.

 

100 Iconic Watercolor Prints Now Available

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This image created by Maggie Reckers Art was shared across social media after the Oregon District shootings.  
Now this iconic watercolor is available in  a limited run of 100 signed prints that are on sale for $100 each. All proceeds are being donated to the Culture Works Oregon District Memorial Fund to help fund a public memorial for the victims of the attack.

You may purchase one of these prints by making a donation of $100 or more here: https://www.daytonfoundation.org/ccgift.html?fund=Culture_Works_Oregon_District_Memorial_Fund_8406. You will be directed to The Dayton Foundation’s website to complete the transaction.

Tomfoolery Outdoors Spooky Brew Bike Tour

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Tired of lame Halloween plans? Well Tomfoolery Outdoors Outdoors has a solution for you! Costumes, craft beer and bikes! Is there a better way to celebrate Halloween than a costume bike ride and Dayton pub tour. Decorate your bike and dust off your favorite costume because we are taking over Halloween in Dayton by bicycle.

Head Distiller Hired for Dayton Barrel Works!

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Today The Dayton Beer Company announced the hiring of  Bill Hockett to serve as the Head Distiller for their new Dayton Barrel Works Artisan Distillery.

According to Dayton Beer Company, “Bill has  over 8 years of distilling experience working for Gervasi Spirits, Limestone Branch Distillery, and with the famous Popcorn Sutton. Bill is from the area and is very excited to be coming home to head our operations and we couldn’t be more excited that we have a distiller of his quality to make some amazing spirits.”

Bill will be starting the new job in January and  shared he’s  “glad to be moving back to the area and look forward to making some great spirits for the Miami Valley.”

Dayton Barrel Works Artisan Distillery will be a craft distillery located at 124 East Second Street in  downtown Dayton. According to their facebook page their focus is on high quality bourbon, gin, vodka, liqueurs, and experimental spirits.

Old Scratch Pizza’s 2nd Location Now Open

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After much anticipation the Washington Township Old Scratch Pizza is now open!    Owner Eric Soller proudly shares that with assistance from architecht Matt Sauer and Real Art, he was able to create a casual, open feeling communal hall that will seat over 200 guests.  While it looks much bigger than the downtown location, he says if you include the patio and party room downtown, that they both seat about the same number of guests. The exact same menu will be served at both locations.

One of the major differences is that the new pizza hall features 3 wood-burning ovens, (one more than downtown) and they’ve added a back entrance and designated parking for To-Go orders.  Look for their on-line ordering to be operational in just a few weeks!

Soller was able to staff the restaurant by bringing some staff from the downtown location, including General Manager Erin Rogers, who helped hire about sixty employees for the new spot.

The 12,000 square foot building, which used to be Centerville Home Fireplace & Patio also has room for 2 more businesses.  One of those will be a juice bar, Power Plant, run by the folks that ran the Shakery food truck.  No word yet on what the 3rd spot will be.

OSP is also bringing their popular Cones For A Cause program to the new location and you’ll find the free cones at the bar at this suburban spot.  Guests are asked to make a donation for the ice cream cones, and each month a different local
non-profit is the beneficiary of those funds.

Since it’s inception this Old Scratch program has generated over $70,000 for community projects and Old Scratch Pizza is even being honored by the Association of Fundraising Professional  at the Dayton National Philanthropy Day Awards Luncheon on November 15th.

 

 

OLD SCRATCH – CENTERVILLE

440 Miamisburg Centerville Rd
Centerville OH 45458

P: (937) 886-4513

HOURS

T-Th 11a–10p
F-Sa 11a–11p
Su 11a–9p

 

Tell them MostMetro.com sent you!

Owner Eric Soller

 

Milano’s Turns 50

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That local place with Atlantic City Subs and Pizza has turned 50.  This is today’s Milano’s.

It is hardly recognizable today from the original Milano’s on Brown Street.   Gone are the old ovens and the standing room only lobby where you had to wait for you name to be called to grab your sub.  Today’s Milano’s is now a family friendly sports pub with a quite substantial menu and beer list.

There are now 3 locations in the Miami Valley.

The Milano’s on Brown Street remains and in years past, stores were added in Miamisburg on 741 and in Beavercreek near the Fairfield Commons Mall.  But, Dayton Originals like THE FOOD ADVENTURES CREW remember when there was only one Milano’s on Brown Street.   Purists will tell you, the subs tasted better then, because the old ovens were ‘seasoned’ from years of spices burnt into the baking area.  Whether you love the “old school, dirty Milano’s”, or the “clean, modern Milano’s”, you can’t deny that this has been one of the most popular eateries in the Miami Valley for 50 years now.

How did all begin ?

HERE’S THE SKINNY on MILANO’S :

— Founded in 1969 by Ron Woods and partners after visiting a restaurant in Lima, Ohio named Milano’s.  They loved the food so much, they opened a place in Dayton the next year and decided to name it Milano’s.

CALZONE

— Sold to ThreeWitt Enterprises( David Fisher, John Slaughenhaupt and Eric Lundgren) in 2002, they revamped Brown Street location in 2005. Opened 2 more restaurants in 2008 in Beavercreek and Miami Township (St Rt 741).

— Sports lovers paradise with huge HD TV’s around the restaurant and bar.

— All-American style menu with subs, pizza and craft beer selections

THE ITALIAN SUB

— Family Friendly atmosphere with an arcade area that kids enjoy

— Great outdoor patio dining area for enhanced fun on good weather days, and it smells better than Atlantic City.

 

MUST EATS at MILANO’s:

— CALZONES:
A little known fact is that the calzones are great at Milano’s.  Whatever ingredients you get, there is plenty of mozzarella cheese inside to cope with, so use that marinara dipping sauce.

— THE ATLANTIC CITY ITALIAN SUB:
Capicola, and 2 types of salami topped with provolone cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, oil, and spices.  There is an option on this sub where they bake the sub and add pizza sauce.  This is what makes the sandwich, so get the baked option with sauce!

 

— PIZZA:
We think the sauce is tangy and tasty, so no matter what the toppings, you will have yourself a good “Situation.”   The crust is made from scratch, daily.  Try it for yourself and let us know what you think.

 

 

— THE MEATBALL SUB:
Have yourself a meatball day and dive into this saucy little number.   This sub is filling, fun, a tad messy, but worth every bite.

 

— TIRAMISU:
Try this creamy Italian dessert. It is worth saving room for this dessert. A delicate coffee soaked lady finger bottom, topped with creamy whipped middle and chocolate drizzled topping.

 

TIRAMISU

 

Honorable Mention:
The generous order of Garlic bread with Cheese is huge.
The Cheesesteak sub is also worth a try, get extra mayo.  

Milano’s  has decent side salads that go well with any main event.  They also have a reasonably priced kids menu.  Be warned, this place gets busy during peak lunch and dinner times.

Just in the mood for a beer?  The inviting bar area always has some ‘off the wall’ choices on tap or in bottles.  It is a great place to unwind with a cold one.

CHEESE STEAK SUB

 

 

 

If you are one of the few who hasn’t tried Milano’s, or you are new to the Dayton area, take a night and check this spot out.  Go for our “must eats” and see if you enjoy their Atlantic City tastes.

***HAPPY 50th BIRTHDAY TO MILANO’S !***

For the record, the Big Ragu, whose last name is Milano, has nothing to do with ownership of the restaurant. Please browse through our photo album below for some amazing pics from our Food Adventures to Milano’s.

Want to see more buns?  Then “like” FOOD ADVENTURES on Facebook HERE !

 

PEPPERONI SUB

BACK PATIO – MIAMISBURG

BAR AREA

ANOTHER PIZZA

GARLIC BREAD

CHICKEN AND PROVOLONE

TAKE OUT

Apply to join the 2020 Kettering Arts Council!

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Want to make a positive impact on cultural arts programs in your community? The Kettering Arts Council needs your voice! This volunteer group of residents is focused on access to the arts for all ages, encouraging a passion for the arts and promoting art appreciation and education.

This committee not only promotes and enhances appreciation of the arts in Kettering, but it’s also a fun way for you to learn new skills, meet people with similar interests and discover how just how vibrant the arts community in Kettering is.

 

Here’s what we ask council members to do –

  1. Attend the arts council meetings on the third Tuesday of every month from 5 – 6:15 p.m. at Rosewood Arts Centre. You’ll be a part of updates and activities planned through both Rosewood Arts Centre staff and Kettering Arts Council initiatives!
  2. Join us at various events throughout the year, including Art on the Commons, the Kettering Community Block Party, A Rosewood Holiday Arts Festival and events in conjunction with Rosewood Gallery. You’ll create relationships with artists, community members and each other while supporting the arts.
  3. Dedicate time to other arts council activities, such as The Arts Road Show. Council initiatives engage the community in various forms, from riding a bike to tour the public art collection, to discussing arts impact on community with a service group!

Members of the Kettering Arts Council also advise several activities including Rosewood Gallery exhibitions, Art on the bike the artsCommons Fine Arts Festival, CitySites Public Art Program, and Rosewood’s educational offerings, as well as contribute to the City’s Parks Board.

Terms are for three years, beginning in January 2020. Members must live or work in Kettering to be eligible.

Make a difference in Kettering while taking time to PLAY – Apply Now!

Guided By Voices Listening Party

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Let’s hang out and listen to GBV! We’re hosting a listening party for the next Guided By Voices album, Sweating the Plague, on October 24th. Come listen to the new album before it’s released, and visit with those friends that you see every year at Heedfest. A good time is guaranteed*.

We’ll have an autographed test pressing to give away during the listening party (!!!), and when you buy Sweating the Plague from us, we’ll give you a free GBV poster (while supplies last). Save the date and we’ll see you then!

Pre-order here: http://bit.ly/SweatingThePlague

*We can’t actually guarantee that you’ll have a good time, but we’re going to make it really hard to not to.