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

Archives for July 2020

Dayton Live Announces Two Week Run For HAMILTON in ‘21-‘22 Season,

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Dayton Live is pleased to announce it will welcome the first Dayton engagement of HAMILTON to the Benjamin & Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center next year in the 2021-2022 Season. In addition, Dayton Live announces a new lineup for the upcoming Premier Health Broadway in Dayton Season. Due to closures and restrictions from the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020-2021 season will be delayed, launching in January 2021 with slightly revised programming.

 

“We’re thrilled to announce HAMILTON’s premiere engagement in Dayton,” said Ty Sutton, President & CEO of Dayton Live (formerly Victoria Theatre Association), the nonprofit arts organization that presents the Premier Health Broadway in Dayton Series at the Schuster Center. “We’ve been working to confirm dates for this incredible theatrical powerhouse since 2018. In fact, the question I get more often than any other is when will HAMILTON be here? Now we can officially confirm: HAMILTON is coming to Dayton.”

HAMILTON is the story of America then, told by America now. Featuring a score that blends hip-hop, jazz, R&B and Broadway, HAMILTON has taken the story of American founding father Alexander Hamilton and created a revolutionary moment in theatre—a musical that has had a profound impact on culture, politics, and education. With book, music, and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda, direction by Thomas Kail, choreography by Andy Blankenbuehler, and musical supervision and orchestrations by Alex Lacamoire,HAMILTON is based on Ron Chernow’s acclaimed biography. It has won Tony®, Grammy®, and Olivier Awards, the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, and an unprecedented special citation from the Kennedy Center Honors.

 

HAMILTON will play two weeks of performances (16 shows) in 2022 at the Benjamin & Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center. On-sale dates for single tickets and group tickets will be announced at a later date. The best way to guarantee access to tickets for the limited engagement is to purchase Season Tickets for the full 2020-2021 Premier Health Broadway in Dayton lineup, which will begin in January 2021, and renew your Season Tickets for 2021-2022 when the time comes. Premier Health Broadway in Dayton Season Ticket Holders will have access to HAMILTON tickets before they are available to the general public. Visit daytonlive.org/hamilton-faq for answers to frequently asked questions.

 

A REVISED PREMIER HEALTH BROADWAY IN DAYTON SEASON

 

“The shutdown of Broadway in New York City has had a wide-reaching effect on performing arts centers and Broadway presenters around the country,” Sutton said. “In addition to not having a clear picture when our venues will be open again, nearly all Broadway tours have closed at least temporarily and are not going to be playing in the fall. This necessitated a great deal of juggling on everyone’s part and I’m happy to say we retained most of our season, and also were able add a huge Broadway hit – and one of my favorite titles – DEAR EVAN HANSEN.”

 

The winner of six 2017 Tony Awards®, including Best Musical, DEAR EVAN HANSEN features a book by Tony Award® winner Steven Levenson, a score by Grammy®, Tony® and Academy Award® winners Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (La La Land, The Greatest Showman), and direction by four-time Tony Award® nominee Michael Greif (Rent, Next to Normal).

 

Declared “One of the most remarkable shows in musical theater history” by the Washington Post’s Peter Marks, DEAR EVAN HANSEN opened at the Music Box Theatre to rave reviews on December 4, 2016. There, it has broken all box office records and struck a chord with audiences and critics alike, including New York Times critic Jesse Green, who, in his May 2019 re-review of the show, declared it “more and more ingenious with each viewing. It is more hopeful than ever.”

 

The Grammy Award®-winning Original Broadway Cast Recording of DEAR EVAN HANSEN, produced by Atlantic Records, was released in February 2017, making an extraordinary debut on the Billboard 200 and entering the chart at #8 – the highest charting debut position for an original cast album since 1961 – and went on to win the 2018 Grammy Award® for Best Musical Theatre Album. A deluxe version of the cast recording, including six bonus tracks and a pop cover from Katy Perry of “Waving through a Window” is now available digitally.

 

In addition to winning six 2017 Tony Awards® and a 2018 Grammy Award®, DEAR EVAN HANSEN has won numerous other awards, including the 2017 Drama League Award for Outstanding Musical Production and for the off-Broadway production, two Obie Awards, a Drama Desk Award, and two Outer Critics Circle Awards and two Helen Hayes Awards. DEAR EVAN HANSEN is also the winner of the Broadway.com Audience Choice Awards three years running, and was just proclaimed the Best Long-Running Show and the Best Touring Production in the 2019 Broadway.com Audience Choice Awards.

 

DEAR EVAN HANSEN, produced by Stacey Mindich, features scenic design by David Korins, projection design by Peter Nigrini, costume design by Emily Rebholz, lighting design by Japhy Weideman, sound design by Nevin Steinberg, and hair design by David Brian Brown. Music supervision, orchestrations and additional arrangements are by Alex Lacamoire. Ben Cohn is the Associate Music Supervisor. Vocal arrangements and additional arrangements are by Justin Paul. Danny Mefford is the choreographer.

 

Casting by Tara Rubin Casting/Xavier Rubiano. Sash Bischoff, Adam Quinn and Danny Sharron are the Associate Directors. Judith Schoenfeld is the Production Supervisor. US General Management 101 Productions.

 

Here is the complete lineup for the 2020-2021 Premier Health Broadway in Dayton Season:

 

JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR

January 12 – 17, 2021 – Schuster Center

 

FIDDLER ON THE ROOF

February 9 – 14, 2021 – Schuster Center

 

THE BAND’S VISIT

March 9 – 14, 2021 – Schuster Center

 

Disney’s THE LION KING

May 6 – 23, 2021 – Schuster Center

 

New!

DEAR EVAN HANSEN

June 8 – 13, 2021

WINNER OF SIX 2017 TONY AWARDS® INCLUDING BEST MUSICAL
AND THE 2018 GRAMMY AWARD® FOR BEST MUSICAL THEATER ALBUM.

A letter that was never meant to be seen, a lie that was never meant to be told, a life he never dreamed he could have. Evan Hansen is about to get the one thing he’s always wanted: a chance to finally fit in. DEAR EVAN HANSEN is the deeply personal and profoundly contemporary musical about life and the way we live it. DEAR EVAN HANSEN has struck a remarkable chord with audiences and critics everywhere, including The Washington Post who says DEAR EVAN HANSEN is “one of the most remarkable shows in musical theatre history.” The New York Times calls it “a gut-punching, breathtaking knockout of a musical.” And “NBC Nightly News” declares the musical “an anthem resonating on Broadway and beyond.” DEAR EVAN HANSEN features a book by Tony Award® winner Steven Levenson, a score by Grammy®, Tony® and Academy Award® winners Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (La La Land, The Greatest Showman), and direction by four-time Tony Award® nominee Michael Greif (Rent, Next to Normal).

New dates!
CATS

July 6 – 11, 2021 – Schuster Center

 

New dates!

ANASTASIA

July 20 – 25, 2021 – Schuster Center

 

The Season Ticket Package will include the above shows with the exception of CATS, which was rescheduled from the 2019-2020 Season. But, you can add CATS as an additional show to your package. The much-anticipated touring productions of COME FROM AWAY and MEAN GIRLS, originally scheduled for the fall of  the 2020-2021 Season, will be moved to a future season. All programming is subject to change. The deadline to renew existing Season Ticket Packages and keep subscriber seats has been extended to July 20, 2020. For complete details on the Premier Health Broadway in Dayton series, go to daytonlive.org/broadway.

DAYTON LIVE COVID-19 TICKET GUARANTEE

 

Arts patrons all over the nation and beyond are concerned about how and when performances will again take place.

 

“We are eager for our venues to reopen and welcome you to life-inspiring performances,” explained Sutton.  “But we want each of our patrons to feel safe and comfortable attending performances in our fabulous venues. Rest assured, we will be doing everything in our power to make your experience with our venues feel positive and safe, from extended cleaning regimens to observation of all state and federal guidelines. As these recommendations and requirements become clear, we will communicate them to you.”

To this end, Dayton Live has issued a COVID-19 Ticket Guarantee. If, once Dayton Live’s venues are open and performances are again filling the calendar, a patron feels COVID-19 conditions make it unsafe to attend a performance/event, they’ll have several options starting 30 days before your performance. For more details on this ticket guarantee, go to daytonlive.org/ticket-guarantee.

 

This COVID-19 Ticket Guarantee applies to performances/events presented by Dayton Live or its nonprofit resident companies. Some events presented by licensees renting Dayton Live facilities may not be covered or might have additional restrictions. The guarantee is available to the original ticket buyer who purchased directly from DaytonLive.org or our former ticketing site, TicketCenterStage.com. Tickets purchased from resellers are not covered.

 

City appoints Deputy City Manager

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Dayton City Manager Shelley Dickstein has appointed veteran City employee LaShea Lofton as Deputy City Manager, effective immediately.
Lofton has served the City of Dayton and the community for more than 28 years. She was appointed the Director of the Department of Finance in 2013 and previously served as Director for the Department of Recreation & Youth Services for four years. Her first 18 years, Lofton worked across several departments in the roles of management analyst, senior budget analyst, senior community development analyst, senior community development analyst and community development administrator.
As the Director of Finance, she was responsible for managing a team of 65 finance professionals and the operations staff in two divisions: Tax & Accounting and Utility Revenue Administration. She also provided oversight for the financial management of taxpayer resources, received and disbursed all cash, and connected the City with the banking community by managing City investments.
“LaShea has tremendous experience and talents that will serve her well in this new position. She has led diverse teams in a myriad of operations for over 25 years. She is well versed in policy planning and creative problem solving and has a talent for process and system analysis. We are fortunate to have someone of her caliber join our City Manager team,” said Dickstein.
In her new role as Deputy City Manager, Lofton will provide leadership and oversight to the Departments of Aviation, Finance, Public Works, and lead the establishment of a new Department of Information Technology.

Quest for the best of Black Owned Eateries

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I know my way around the Dayton food scene. At least the affordable food scene. I am not one for fancy dinners or $30 lunches, but I like to eat and I like to see and eat what Dayton has to offer.

People ask me all the time, where are the best wings, best burgers, best this, best that. I always have an answer.

Until recently. People started asking me about Black owned restaurants. I only knew of the two immigrant owned spots I frequent Nanyea Cafe (North Dixie) and Eden Spice (Central Ave in West Carrolton) as well as a food truck I hit up downtown on occasion (Courtland’s Mobile Grill).

So I had to ask, poke around Facebook a little and what I found is a bit surprising. There aren’t as many as I had thought. Also, one place I thought was Black-owned wasn’t. Still a favorite but not what I was looking for this time.

Here are the six Ill be visiting in the coming days!

The Chicken Spot
This place is more than chicken. Salads and a variety of sandwiches are on the menu. Pulled chicken thighs on a bun with mac and cheese as a topping? Yes. The Back Yard Medusa is an entire backyard bbq in one bite. This joint will add Collard Greens as a topping to the sandwich! I am not one for crazy sandwiches, but this one has my attention. Located on Siebenthaler near Philadelphia. Give them a follow on Facebook for hours and specials.

Twist Cupcakery
One of the sweetest spots in the Fireblock District is Twist. My afternoons are always made better with one of these cupcakes. Located on St. Clair, just south of Third Street. $2.50 wont buy you happiness, but it will buy you a cupcake, and that is pretty darn close. They have curbside pickup and deliver a “CupCake in a Jar” nationwide. Brownies, cookies and other treats can be found as well.

Fat Boyz BBQ

Today’s BBQ popularity can be attributed to African Americans solely. From Texas to Kansas City to Memphis, BBQ history starts with African Americans turning the less desirable cuts of meat into something delicious.

Their menus is pure bbq and they do something that few BBQ spots do, ribs by the bone. Pork Spare Ribs and Beef Ribs on the menu as well as something they call a Turkey Rib. I have to try it. Burgers and a turkey burger also make the menu. Southern sides round the menu, mac and cheese, collard greens, yams and grilled corn are great accompaniment to any entree.

Find them on Kipling Dr in Dayton Wednesday through Saturday. Check Facebook for weekly specials.

Stuffed Enuff

Soul Food joint doesn’t do them justice. With wraps and stuffed burgers on the menu, Stuffed Enuff is more than soul food. This is legit home cooked food with something for everyone. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are all accounted for here

You gotta check out the stuffed breakfast burger! Imagine waffles or pancakes as the bun and let your imagination run wild.

Located on N Dixie, Stuffed Enuff is on my must eat list.

Alematic Artisan Ales

Dayton is a brew town, but did you know up north in Huber Alematic Brewery is Dayton’s only Black owned brewery? With 7 creations on tap, there is sure to be something you’ll like. Ive got my eye on the Hawaiian Passion Fruit Wheat, I like a good Wheat beer and this one sounds delightful. A few IPA, Stouts and Pale Ales round out the list. Grab food from from TJ Chumps delivered right to your table.

Alematic can be found at 6182 Chambersburg Rd. in Huber.

 

Grind House Coffee and Tea

Dayton has no shortage of coffee shops, but few have a legacy and history like Grindhouse. Bill Miller took his families passion for coffee and tea and made it a reality by importing single source coffee and tea from around the world. His shop is located inside the Meijer department store in Huber and is not to be missed. Grind House has iced coffee, teas, lemonades and every drink is hand crafted.

Grind House also leads the way in flavored coffees. My wife prefers something with a little sweetness, so their Apple Pie, Blueberry Muffin and Creme Brulee coffee blends really hit the spot. Check them out and all their merch at Meijer, 7150 Executive Blvd in Huber.

Making this list, and finding these hidden Dayton Gems isn’t easy for a white guy from the Suburbs. But, you can tell that these are spots and menus not to be missed. I follow Te’Jal on Instagram and YouTube for her show What’s The Biz. Whats the Biz is a web series that highlights the stories of black entrepreneurs. Check it out!

This episode tells the story best: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KnL12Ai10ME

Check her out on Instagram too: Instagram.com/whatsthebiz_

Bryan

Panelists to Discuss Racial Justice Issues

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Layla F. Saad’s book Me and White Supremacy: Combat Racism, Change the World, and Become a Good Ancestor offers a lot to think about, and plenty to discuss. Dayton Metro Library presents an online, recorded Panel Discussion on Wednesday, July 8, 5 – 6 p.m.  View the discussion live at www.BigRead.org. The recorded conversation will be posted online for later viewing.

Amelia Robinson, Dayton Daily News Community Impact Editor, will moderate the discussion. The panelists are:

Debbie Feldman, President and CEO, Dayton Children’s Hospital

Shannon Isom, President & CEO, YWCA Dayton

Kevin M. Kelly, Executive Director, Dayton International Peace Museum

Brian O. Martin, AICP, Executive Director, Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission

Questions or comments for the panelists to consider should be submitted in advance at the Facebook event page or online here.

“This will surely be an important conversation for our community as we all work to push Dayton forward,” Amelia Robinson said.

“We have no doubt that hearing from these respected community leaders will help all of us better understand racism locally, and feel more knowledgeable and confident discussing ways we can move our community forward as a result,” said Tim Kambitsch, Library Executive Director.

Me and White Supremacy takes readers on a 28-day journey to dismantle the privilege within themselves so that they can stop (often unconsciously) inflicting damage on people of color, and in turn, help other white people to do better, too. It is available for unlimited borrowing in eBook and Audiobook formats through OverDriveat DaytonMetroLibrary.org through July 31, meaning an unlimited number of readers can borrow and read the book at the same time.

“I was motivated to become involved in this project because it is only through honest and often painful dialogue can we ever hope to make progress,” said Kevin Kelly of the Dayton International Peace Museum. “We have a long-overdue opportunity and a responsibility to find permanent solutions and fresh ideas on how to finally end the timeless scourge of racism and inequity in this country.”

“I feel it is important to participate in this project because this movement is so very painful for everyone,” said MVRPC’s Brian Martin. “We feel like we need to do something. I’m hopeful that this Big Read will lead to more discussions across the area, Ohio, and the Nation.”

View the discussion live at www.BigRead.org. The recorded conversation will be posted online for later viewing. For more information about the book, the author, or other ways to continue the conversation, visit The Big Read website.

New Ownership for Tipp City Restaurant

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Chef Rob Scott worked as the sous chef under Art Chin at Greenfire Bistro for about 3 years. Then Art retired in 2019 and turned over the restaurant to a new owner.  But things didn’t go quite as planned and Art grudgingly ended up running the restaurant again.  Then came the mandatory shut down brought on by the pandemic. And that  became an opportunity for Chef Rob Scott to own his own restaurant.

Today, July 7th is the first day that Greenfire Fresh will open it’s doors.  Chef Scott took a few moments today to share with us his vision for what the business will look like under his ownership. He says he’ll keep about 10 of  the top sellers from the Chin regime.  “We are doubling down of the the seafood, we’ve added Chilean sea bass to the menu and will have a new take on fish tacos,” shared Scott. “We’ll feature house made Crème Brule and key lime pie for dessert.”

Chef Rob Scott in front of his new restaurant.

Here’s a sneak peek of the menu:

Appetizers

Crab Rangoon
Greenfire Classic Wings
Shrimp Bruschetta

Salads

Classic Greenfire Salad
Antipasto Salad
Smoked Salmon Salad 

Entrees Beef

10oz Greek New York Strip
Beef Kabobs
Chicken Parmesan
Chicken Kabobs
Street Fish Tacos
Classic Greenfire Pan Fried Walleye
Coconut Shrimp
Honey Dijon Crusted Salmon
Pan Seared Chilean Sea Bass

Greenfire Classics

Chicken Tikka Marsala
Garlic Brown Sauce Stir Fry
Fish and chips
20 ingredient BBQ Ribs

Desserts

Classic Greenfire Key Lime Pie  or Crème Brule

 

Greenfire Fresh
965 W Main St
Tipp City, Ohio 45371

 937-506-7207

 

Tues – Thurs 4:00 – 9:00pm

Fri & Sat 4:00 – 10:00 on

Reservations are helpful, but not required

Free Masks for City of Dayton Residents

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The City of Dayton is distributing free face masks to Dayton residents, to help the community slow the spread of the novel coronavirus.
A pack of 10 masks is available to each household and may be picked up at any Dayton fire station from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., seven days a week until supplies are depleted. Proof of City of Dayton residency is requested.
The masks are disposable (not washable), but can be used several times if stored in a cool, dry place when not in use.
The distribution follows the July 1 City Commission approval of an ordinance requiring use of face coverings in most indoor locations (including retail stores and restaurants) and outdoor locations where social distancing is not possible.
Federal CARES Act funds are supporting the mask distribution by the City.
Dayton fire station locations:
Station 2, 1009 E. Third St.
Station 4, 300 N. Main St.
Station 8, 2636 Stanley Ave.
Station 10, 1234 S. Broadway
Station 11, 145 Warren St.
Station 12, 4236 Brandt Pk.
Station 13, 1723 W. Third St.
Station 14, 2213 N. Main St.
Station 15, 2801 Wayne Ave.
Station 16, 4111 Kings Hwy.
Station 17, 4118 W. Third St.
Station 18, 207 S. Smithville Rd.

FREE Breakfast at Archer’s Tavern in Centerville

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As a thank you to the community for ten years of support at this location and to introduce you to their newly added morning hours, Archer’s Tavern at  9496 Dayton-Lebanon Pike in Centerville will be offering a FREE  breakfast from 7am – 11am on Monday, July 13th through Friday July 17th.

We just checked with the GM Johnny, he says there’s no catch, the only stipulations are you need to make reservations at (937) 401-1015 and the offer is for dine in breakfast only.  Here’s then menu so you can plan your meal.

 

 

Dayton At Work and Play: Big Sky Bread Company

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Mari Gallenstein of Big Sky Bread Company Dayton, Ohio. (3070 Far Hills Avenue). You can see her husband Phil baking in the background. They’ve owned and operated this local business for over 20 years.


I’m a regular here because I’m addicted to their blueberry crumbles. The last time I stopped in I asked Mari how the pandemic had affected her business.

“We’ve done everything we can to make this a safe place to shop. Our employees wear masks and we spend a lot of time cleaning everything. We’ve added barriers and changed the layout so there’s a safe distance between the customers and between customers the staff. Business is down from our normal levels but we’re doing OK. A few of the restaurants that sell our products have recently opened back up, which should help.”


“When the pandemic first hit we were contacted by Catholic Social Services. There was more demand than ever for the food that their Choice Food Pantry hands out, but their regular suppliers couldn’t get them any bread. We had decided to close on Saturdays because business was down, so we decided that Saturday would be our time to bake for the pantry. Some customers saw that we were working and stopped in, so we decided to stay open for a half day on Saturdays after all.”


“When people heard what we were doing, some of them gave us money to help cover our expenses. That helped a lot. Recently the regular bread suppliers to the Choice Food Pantry have worked through their problems, so we don’t need to do that baking. But we’re still baking for two other programs – Good Neighbor House and Kettering Backpack. We’ve gotten a lot of support from this community over the years. Helping people get through this difficult period is something we want to do.”

(937) 643-0300

3070 Far Hills Ave # c, Dayton, OH 45429

Hours

Mon: 10am – 6pm
Tues-Fri: 7am – 6pm
Sat: 10am – 2:30pm
Sun: Closed

Old Dayton Pizza at Riverside Hideaway Now Open!

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Owners Steve & Sherri Zelen purchased the old Green Lantern Bar on Old Troy Pike in Riverside last October.  Then they started working hard to transform the building to match their vision for what would become  Old Dayton Pizza at Riverside Hideaway. As they describe it, it’s a “Fun time sports bar …where locally sourced shenanigans pair with pizza.”  Their signature pizza features a Roman Style pizza crust.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Steve’s famous Roman Style pizza dough goes through a bulk fermentation process for 24 to 48 hours.  “Just the right amount of crunch to chew”, as he describes it.

There is also a full bar with 12 taps of ice cold beer!

 

 

 

 

They’ve totally remodeled the inside:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As well as the outside:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Now all they need is you to visit them and enjoy some pizza!

Old Dayton Pizza at Riverside Hideaway
3490 Old Troy Pike
Riverside, OH 45404

937-23303490

Hours:  Mon- Sat 11am to midnight

 

Online Ordering will be available soon

Dayton at Work and Play: Blueberry Picking

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The cool Spring slowed things down, but the blueberries are now ready to pick at Once in a Blue Moon Farm (3984 East Social Road in Waynesville). The fields are open for picking July 4th & 5th from 8am to 2pm.

Tips from Once in a Blue Moon Farm:

When picking look for firm berries that are blue all over. Leave those that have pink or green still on them so they will ripen. Ripe berries come off the bush easily with a gentle pull. Ripe berries can be large or small and found throughout the bush.

After you get your berries home remove them from the bag and store dry in an open container. Wash for 1-2 minutes under cold water right before using.


If freezing your berries, wash them first and lay them out to dry (a towel works well). When completely dry they are ready for the freezer bag and freezer. They should be good up to one year.

Price per pound is $3.95, Cash or Check Only. Pre-picked pints are $5.00, quarts $10.00 and are in limited supply. Bottled water is available for 50 cents.

Peak season this year is delayed and will be mid July. Expect the best picking then.
Remember to bring your hand sanitizer and masks and to social distance as best you can. We look forward to seeing you this season!

ruef Design launches Free Music Video Contest

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ruef Design, a Dayton, OH-area digital marketing agency, is offering to produce, film, and edit a music video for a local band or artist for FREE.

The lucky artist or band will work with ruef Design through the creative process and all phases of production to craft a music video, all on ruef Design’s dime.

Zack Ruef, owner of the Dayton-based digital marketing agency said he and his team came up with the idea during the recent quarantine.

Zack Ruef

“We love Dayton and would like to give something back,” Ruef said. “We believe in nurturing the arts and creativity, now more than ever.”

He continued: “Dayton is full of talent. As a creative agency, we know it first-hand: We are made up of passionate artists and designers and musicians, and we want to help promote local art and music! We think now more than ever we need positivity and creativity to thrive.”

The video will be for one original song (no covers), including location scouting and video concept development, as well as full video production and editing.

“Shooting a music video is a lot of fun, plus we’ll get the opportunity to meet and work with other local artists, so it’s a win-win!” Ruef said.

The initial entry submission period will run until July 10th, 2020. For full terms and conditions, and to enter, visit https://ruef.com/music-video-contest/.

ruef Design specializes in technical communications and marketing for business-to-business buyers in manufacturing, engineering, and industrial spaces, and have created music videos for high-profile artists and bands in Dayton and Cincinnati.

Greater Dayton LGBTQ+ Her/History Nomination

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According to one of the founders, Jerry Mallicoat, “the Greater Dayton LGBTQ Her/History Project began in 2019 as a way to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising by capturing, preserving and recognizing history and trailblazers for equality in our local area LGBTQ community. As we began discovering important stories, people and events, we quickly realized that it should be continued annually so that we can preserve our local her/history for future generations to understand how LGBTQ people have helped make our community more equal and affirming. History is happening every day, and we want to be sure it gets professionally preserved a. That’s why we will install much of the information and memorabilia we are collecting at Wright State University Library where it can be protected and searched through their catalogs, and inform future generations about how integral we have been to our community.”
Last year they profiled the pivotal historical people, places and events in our Dayton LGBT community. The October award ceremony held at The Brightside honored many including, The Rubi Girls, lesbian activists Nancy Grigsby, Wendy Stiver, Elizabeth Wiley and Liz Valenti, Gay activists like Leon Bay, Jim McCarthy and Rodney Veal as well as Allies.
Not it’s time to nominate a person, place or event that has been pivotal to the LGBTQ+ history in the Dayton area during the last 50 years.  People can make nominations by July 31 using the link below, and they can indicate whether they have memorabilia to donate. Criteria for nomination are included on the nomination form.
Below are criteria that may help you with your submission. Please submit your nomination by July 31, 2020.
Categories include:

1. LGBTQ+ people who have been pivotal in helping to make the greater Dayton community a better place for everyone.

2. LGBTQ+ people who have been instrumental in advancing equality for the LGBTQ community.

3. Pivotal events that helped advance equality or raise consciousness about LGBTQ+ issues.

4. Places/buildings/locations that have been pivotal or important in our local LGBTQ+ history.

5. Organizations or community groups that have been pivotal in the LGBTQ+ community.

6. Straight allies who have been pivotal in advancing equality for LGBTQ+ people/community.

People can also send information and questions to [email protected]. A steering committee of people from across the community will review nominations and select the most impactful – true trailblazers for equality – to be recognized at a virtual event on October 22.

Melt Introduces New Happy Hour Menu

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Melt Bar and Grilled launches a new Happy Hour menu at all locations on July 1st.  The new menu consists of old favorites and delicious new items – only available 3pm – 6pm Monday through Friday.  Come on, get happy!

Happy Hour Beer, Cocktails & Wine Specials

  • Bud Light & Miller Lite – $2.00 off 16oz & 22oz draft
  • $1.00 off all other draft beers – 16oz & 22oz
  • $1.00 off all can & bottled beer
  • $2.00 off all Signature Cocktails
  • $2.00 off all Spiked Seltzers
  • $3.00 off glass – house red or house white wine
  • $2.00 off all single serve wines
  • $4.00 off all half bottles

Mac & Cheese Crocks

  • Classic Cheesy Cheddar / Cheddar, romano, american, panko crumb crust. V, VG
  • Buffalo Mac / Cheddar, signature buffalo sauce, blue cheese. V, VG
  • Sweet & Smokey / Cheddar, caramel port onions, smoked gouda. V, VG
  • Bacon Ranch – Bacon, cheddar, ranch, scallions. VA, VG
  • Cheesy Tortilla – Roasted corn salsa, onion, tortilla crumbs, sweet chipotle, sour cream, scallions. V, VG

Melt Quesadilla / Grilled chicken, cheddar cheese, roasted corn salsa, sautéed onions, jalapeno, scallions, sour cream, house-made salsa picante. VA

Happy Corndogs / Happy size house-dipped corn dogs, chipotle ketchup & sweet mustard for dipping.

Chips & Salsa / Fresh fried tortilla chips & house made salsa picante. V

Melt Nachos / Fresh fried tortilla chips, cheddar cheese sauce, fire-roasted corn salsa, scallions, pickled jalapenos, house-made salsa picante, sour cream. V (chicken or ground beef extra)

Cheese Bacon Fries / Fresh-cut fries, cheddar cheese sauce, crisp bacon crumble. VA

Buffalo Chicken Tenders / Hand-breaded chicken strips tossed in our signature buffalo sauce with ranch dip.

Happy Bruschetta / Toasted bread, mozzarella, grilled tomato, hickory bacon, sweet balsamic, fresh basil. VA

V = Vegetarian Item
VA = Vegetarian Available
VG = Vegan Available

Play Downtown Dayton Summer Bingo!

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The Downtown Dayton Partnership (DDP) debuts a new feature of the DP&L Summer in the City lineup: Downtown Dayton Summer Bingo . The game will begin on Friday, July 3, and players can complete a bingo of challenges for the chance to win downtown Dayton prizes throughout the entire month of July.

Players will complete “challenges” that will have them exploring downtown Dayton dining, arts, culture, shopping and entertainment. The challenges include opportunities to explore in-person following social-distancing guidelines, or tasks that can be completed online from home. If they complete five challenges in a row on the game card to make a “bingo,” players can submit their card into the drawing to win prizes. Join in the fun at our Facebook event page here .

“Our goal is for players to explore downtown, support our small business community, learn about a new spot in downtown Dayton, and continue to safely visit downtown restaurants, shops, arts galleries and more throughout the summer,” said Sandra K. Gudorf, president of the Downtown Dayton Partnership.

1.       Complete 5 squares in a row (horizontal, vertical, or diagonal) to make a bingo.

2.        Snap a photo or take a screen grab to prove that you completed the task. All tasks                MUST be completed using a downtown Dayton business or location.

3.        Email your final completed bingo entry and supporting proof to [email protected] to be entered to win prizes from the Downtown Dayton Partnership.

● Weekly drawings – On Friday, July 10, 17 and 24, winners will be chosen for weekly prizes, including gift cards to downtown businesses. Weekly winners will be re-entered into the Grand Prize drawing.

● Grand Prizes – At the end of the month, five winners will be chosen to receive a Downtown Dayton Prize Pack, which includes more than $100 in gift cards to downtown restaurants, bars, and retailers.

RULES: How to submit your bingo:

  1. Following the rules below, email your submission to: [email protected] before Saturday, August 1, 2020.
  2. Only submit a full bingo (five completed tasks in a row).
  3. Only one entry per person.
  4. All bingo tasks should be submitted in one email. The email needs to include the following:
    1. A screen grab or photo of your bingo card with your 5 completed tasks marked off.
    2. Proof* of your completed tasks either in the body of the email, or as attachments to the

      email. Read on for Proof* of Completion rules.

    3. Your name, contact phone number, and email

*PROOF of bingo square task
Virtual (pink): Take a photo or screen grab of your completed social media or website task (example: screen grab the website you explored, or the new Facebook page you “like”). Include that picture as part of your final email submission.

Support Local (orange): Take a picture of yourself completing the task (example: snap a selfie while you’re at the local coffee shop). Include that picture as part of your final email submission.

Get Out & Explore (green): Take a picture while you’re completing the task. (example: snap a selfie in front of a downtown mural). Include that picture as part of your final email submission.

For more information, including helpful tips on places to visit to complete some of the bingo challenges, visit the Downtown Dayton Partnership website. Here you can find the pages for OPEN* downtown Dayton restaurants , OPEN* retail , OPEN* things to do , Find it Downtown guides and downtown Dayton self-guided tours .

Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) Starts July 1

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Beginning July 1, the Ohio Development Services Agency and local Community Action Agencies and nonprofits will help income-eligible Ohioans maintain their utility service through the Home Energy Assistance Summer Crisis Program. The program helps eligible Ohioans pay an electric bill, purchase an air conditioning unit or fan, or pay for central air conditioning repairs. This year, the program will run from July 1 until September 30, 2020.

 

“This year, we’ve extended the length of the program and expanded eligibility requirements so we can help more Ohioans during this health crisis,” Lydia Mihalik, director of the Ohio Development Services Agency said. “We’re working with our local partners every day to help Ohioans in need.”

 

In 2019 more than 20,500 families across Ohio were assisted through the Home Energy Assistance Summer Crisis Program.

 

The Summer Crisis Program assists low-income households with an older household member (60 years or older), or households that can provide physician documentation that cooling assistance is needed for a household member’s health. Examples of conditions can include lung disease, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, asthma, etc. This year, households that were diagnosed with COVID-19 in 2020, have a disconnect notice, have been shut off, or are trying to establish new service on their electric bill are also eligible for assistance.

 

Ohioans can visit energyhelp.ohio.gov to start their application prior to their required appointment. This year appointments can be held over the phone or in person at a local partner Agency. To find an agency in your area or to schedule an appointment call, (800) 282-0880.

 

Eligible households can receive up to $500 if they are a customer of a regulated utility, or $800 if they are a customer of unregulated utilities such as electric cooperatives and municipal utilities. The assistance is applied to their utility bill, or to purchase an air conditioning unit or fan, or pay for central air conditioning repairs. Ohioans must have a gross income at or below 175% of the federal poverty guidelines to qualify for assistance. For a family of four the annual income must be at or below $45,850.00.

 

Also new this year, Ohioans enrolled in the Percentage of Income Payment Plan Plus Program (PIPP) who meet the above criteria may be eligible for assistance towards their default PIPP payment, first PIPP payment, central air conditioning repairs, or may receive an air conditioning unit and/or fan.

 

For more information about the Summer Crisis Program are available at energyhelp.ohio.govor by calling (800) 282-0880.

JOHN LEWIS, Catherine Deneuve & virtually THE LAST TREE!

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Hello NEON Fans!
Thanks to everyone who came out for our soft reopening.  We learned some important things along the way, and patrons reported that they had great experiences at THE NEON while adhering to our new safety measures.  If you still need to see MISS JUNETEENTH (and you want to see it on the big screen), you only have until Thursday…that said, we will continue our virtual engagement until July 9.  On Friday, we will open two brand new films – the inspiring doc JOHN LEWIS: GOOD TROUBLE and the star-studded gem THE TRUTH!  In addition, we’ve just added a brand new, powerful film to our virtual offerings – THE LAST TREE.
Be sure to check out the Virtual news further down.  We have a couple awesome announcements about special virtual events!
Synopsis for JOHN LEWIS: GOOD TROUBLE – In-Person Engagement: Rated “100% Fresh” on Rottentomatoes! “Using interviews and rare archival footage, JOHN LEWIS: GOOD TROUBLE chronicles Lewis’ 60-plus years of social activism and legislative action on civil rights, voting rights, gun control, health-care reform and immigration. Using present-day interviews with Lewis, now 80 years old, Porter explores his childhood experiences, his inspiring family and his fateful meeting with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in 1957. In addition to her interviews with Lewis and his family, Porter’s primarily cinéma verité film also includes interviews with political leaders, Congressional colleagues, and other people who figure prominently in his life.” (Magnolia Pictures) This feature-length documentary will be followed by a 16 minute pre-recorded discussion between Representative Lewis and Oprah. Leah Greenblatt of ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY wrote, “Excellent. A joyful, galvanizing portrait of a life radically and fully lived.” Click the image below to watch the film’s trailer.
Synopsis for THE TRUTH – In-Person Engagement: “Legends of French cinema Catherine Deneuve and Juliette Binoche join masterful filmmaker Hirokazu Koreeda (SHOPLIFTERS, STILL WALKING) to paint a moving portrait of family dynamics in THE TRUTH. Fabienne (Catherine Deneuve) is an aging French movie star who, despite her momentary lapses in memory, remains a venerable force to be reckoned with. Upon the publication of her memoirs, her daughter Lumir (Juliette Binoche) returns to Paris from New York with her husband (Ethan Hawke) and their young daughter to commemorate its release. A sharp and funny battle of wits ensues between the mother-daughter duo, as Lumir takes issue with Fabienne’s rose-colored version of the past. Reflected cleverly by Fabienne’s latest role in a sci-fi drama, their strained relationship takes a poignant journey toward possible reconciliation. Charming, bold, and imbued with endless emotional insight, THE TRUTH offers a relatable look at human relationships, featuring exquisite performances from its all-star cast.” (IFC Films) Click the image below to watch the film’s trailer.
Synopsis for THE LAST TREE – Virtual Engagement: “THE LAST TREE is the semi-autobiographical story of Femi (as a child played by newcomer Tai Golding), a British boy of Nigerian heritage who, after being fostered in rural Lincolnshire, moves to inner-city London to live with his birth mother. In his teens, Femi (Sam Adewunmi) is struggling with the culture and values of his new environment. Femi must decide which path to adulthood he wants to take, and what it means to be a young black man in London during the early 00s. Going back home to Nigeria with his mum to find his Nigerian roots will help adolescent Femi find grounding and hope for a better future…THE LAST TREE scooped two wins for Best Supporting Actress and Most Promising Newcomer at the British Independent Film Award. Its Sundance 2019 World Premiere screening was followed by multiple festival screenings in the USA and Canada.” Click the image below to gain 72 hour access for $10.
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We’re delighted to announce that these films will continue in our Virtual Cinema for one more week (until July 9):
SOMETIMES ALWAYS NEVER in our VIRTUAL CINEMA: “Alan (Bill Nighy) is a stylish tailor with moves as sharp as his suits. However, he’s spent years searching for his missing son Michael, who stormed out over a game of Scrabble and hasn’t been seen since…” You can watch this film on your computer or mobile device as well as some smart TVs.  For more details about available devices, please visit the Eventive’s HELP

page. Click the image below to watch the trailer and gain 72 hour access for $12.
ELLA FITZGERALD: JUST ONE OF THOSE THINGS in our Virtual Cinema: “Ella Fitzgerald was a 15 year-old street kid when she won a talent contest in 1934 at the Apollo Theatre in Harlem. Within months she was a star…”  You can watch this film on your computer or mobile device as well as some smart TVs.  For more details about available devices, please visit the Eventive’s HELP page. This film will be available starting this Friday, June 26 in our Virtual Cinema.  Click the image below to watch the trailer and pre-order 72 hour access to the film for $12.
MISS JUNETEENTH in our Virtual Cinema: “Turquoise was once crowned Miss Juneteenth, a title commemorating the day slaves in Texas were freed – two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. Life didn’t turn out as beautifully as the title promised, but Turquoise, determined to right her wrongs, is cultivating her daughter, Kai, to become Miss Juneteenth, even if Kai wants something else.”

Click the image below to gain 72 hour access to this film for $6.99.

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Wanna know what’s coming down the road in our virtual cinema? (Click any title to watch that film’s trailer.)  On July 8, we will open ONE SMALL STEP – a collection of critically acclaimed and award-winning animated short films that are family-friendly!  On July 15, we’ll open the wonderful documentary about a beloved Julliard professor – CREATING A CHARACTER (and here’s the fun news: On Sunday, July 19 at 5:00, we’ll host a special Zoom Artists’ Roundtable with Kevin Moore from The Human Race Theatre Company, Joe Deer from Wright State University,  and actors Jasmine Batchelor (the lead actress from THE SURROGATE) and Colby Lane Chambers – both who have performed in Dayton productions and studied with Moni at Julliard – the subject of this film!!) On July 17, we will open THE TOBACCONIST – both virtually and in-person – a film I saw and loved at The Cleveland International Film Festival last year (and here’s the fun news: you can join a post-screening discussion that Judy Schwartzman and I will co-facilitate on Monday, July 20 at 7pm). More details about the zoom discussions will be available next week.  On July 22, we will open FLANNERY – a film about Flannery O’Connor that Ken Burns calls “an extraordinary documentary.” At the end of July, we plan to bring NEVER TOO LATE – starring James Cromwell and Jacki Weaver.
In case you didn’t get last week’s newsletter, here’s a reminder about our new policies. Due to new guidelines for keeping staff and customers healthy during the current crisis, we now offer reserved seating.  If you want to sit next to someone, you’ll need to purchase tickets in the same transaction.  The software we are using will automatically block off three seats between parties – so if you buy a single ticket, there’s no chance for someone to sit next to you. If you’re the first person to reserve a seat in a row (on-line or in-person), we ask that you choose a seat that’s on the aisle or along the wall…this will allow us to maximize our capacity.  This is going to be a big learning curve for us – a full house will now be approximately 35% of our actual capacity.
Here is some of what we’re initially doing TO ENSURE THAT STAFF AND GUESTS STAY HEALTHY:
  • Masks are required for all staff and guests except when eating in an auditorium.
  • Our entrance to the building has moved to THE NEON’s patio doors.  This will streamline transactions and separate ticketing from food purchases.  Additional time between screenings will also minimize lobby traffic.
  • Commonly touched surfaces (door handles, will be sanitized every 30 minutes.
  • Floor markers will assist with social distancing, and hand sanitizers are located throughout the lobby.
  • Please arrive before the scheduled showtime.  Seating will begin approximately 40 minutes before each show.
  • In the auditoriums, every other row will be unavailable. Groups may sit together, but 3 seats will be required between parties in each row.
  • We have increased the time between screenings to allow us sufficient time to sanitize the auditoriums.  For additional assurance, seat wipes will also be available for customer use.
  • Please stay home if you have any of the following symptoms: cough, shortness of breath, fever, chills, sore throat or new loss of taste/smell.
We’ve had a couple people express that they’re still not comfortable leaving their homes during this crazy time.  Though we have gone above and beyond the required guidelines, I understand that some people are hesitant to make the leap of coming to a movie in person.  So I’m asking for your help.  Please know that you can still support us by watching our virtual selections (and by spreading the word)…and if you’re so inclined, donations are always appreciated.  We finally have a DONATE button on our website.  Donations to our cinema are tax-deductible, and they’re easy to do at this LINK.
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While distributors continue moving opening dates of some highly anticipated films, we are thinking of offering some retrospective titles over the next few weeks.  Some distributors are offering us great deals to license some of the films from their libraries, and I want to know what you would support in person at THE NEON.  Would you come out for a Wes Anderson fest?  How about first films from acclaimed directors like Barry Jenkins, Miranda July or Steve McQueen?  Do you want some Coen Brothers?  Or do you prefer some classic Hitchcock?  How about a NEON favorite – AMELIE?  Unfortunately, WON’T YOU BE MY NEIGHBOR? wasn’t much of a draw this week…so I need your honest opinions as to what you’d support.  Thanks in advance for your input!
We hope to see you soon!
Be safe & well.
My best,
Jonathan
IN-PERSON SHOWTIMES for Wednesday, July 1 – Thursday, July 9:
MISS JUNETEENTH (NR) 1 Hr 34 Min
Wed & Thu (July 1 & 2): 3:30, 7:30
FINAL DAY – July 2!
WON’T YOU BE MY NEIGHBOR (PG-13) 1 Hr 35 Min
Wed & Thu (July 1 & 2): 3:00, 7:00
FINAL DAY – July 2!
JOHN LEWIS: GOOD TROUBLE (PG) 1 Hr 34 Min + 16 Min Oprah discussion
Friday, Saturday, Sunday (July 3-5): 1:30, 4:30, 7:30
Monday (July 6): 3:30, 7:30
Tuesday (July 7): 3:30
Wednesday & Thursday (July 8): 3:30, 7:30
THE TRUTH (PG) 1 Hr 46 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday (July 3-5): 1:00, 4:00, 7:00
Monday – Thursday (July 6-9): 3:00, 7:00
COMING SOON – In-Person Screenings:
(All Dates Are Tentative.  Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear)
July 10 – FIRST COW
July 17 – THE TOBACCONIST 
July 31 – SUMMERLAND
Aug 7 – BURNT ORANGE HERESY
TBD – MADE IN ITALY
SAVE YOURSELVES!
GORDON LIGHTFOOT: IF YOU COULD READ MY MIND
THE PERSONAL HISTORY OF DAVID COPPERFIELD