Dayton937

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

The Featured Articles

‘King’s Face’ and ‘Position’ Tie for Historic FutureFest Win

By Leave a Comment

Photo1

2013 Dayton Playhouse FutureFest-winning playwrights Hal Borden (left) and Steven Young (Contributed photo by Art Fabian)

History was made Sunday at the Dayton Playhouse as the organization’s 23rd annual FutureFest of new plays gave top honors to Steven Young’s fascinating historical drama “The King’s Face” and Hal Borden’s hilariously topical comedy “A Position of Relative Importance.”
Last weekend’s jaw-dropping yet welcomed tie primarily reflected the refreshing strengths and enormous potential of this year’s six diverse, developing finalists, which included the cross-cultural dramedy “Veils” by Tom Coash of New Haven, Connecticut, quirky abstract art-centered dramedy “The One with Olives” by Sam Havens of Houston, Texas, psychological drama “On the Road to Kingdom Come” by 2009 FutureFest winner and Dayton native Michael Feely of Woodland Hills, California, and the gay marriage-themed comedy “St. Paulie’s Delight” by J. Joseph Cox of Chicago, Illinois. Each contender was judged on criteria including character development, conflict, dramatic structure, plot, page-to-stage and the next stage. The adjudicators consisted of New York-based trio Helen Sneed, Eleanore Speert and David Finkle along with 1997 FutureFest winner Faye Sholiton of Cleveland and 2002 FutureFest finalist Robert Koon of Chicago.

The Kings Face

Charles Larkowski (left) and Josh Katawick in “The King’s Face” (Contributed photo by Art Fabian)

“The King’s Face,” an engrossingly intimate two-hander superbly directed with palpable unease by Geoff Burkman, concerned the true story of Prince Harry of Monmouth, who was struck by an arrow during the 1403 battle of Shrewsbury. Inside a chamber at Kenilworth Castle, London surgeon and counterfeiter Jonathan Bradmore had the enormously difficult task of attempting to save Harry’s life by meticulously extracting the arrowhead from his skull while simultaneously saving his own.
As the sickly, agitated and paranoid Harry, Josh Katawick delivered a tremendously mature, extraordinarily emotional performance. Consistently discovering delicious nuances inside Young’s beautifully descriptive language, particularly when Harry recounts the elation and horror of battle, Katawick took his lines to Shakespearean heights while remaining astutely connected to the doubt, fear and panic boiling beneath Harry’s youthful bravado. At one point, Harry awakened from a terrible nightmare executed so brilliantly by Katawick you could feel every morsel of his anguish.

The Kings Face-2

Charles Larkowski (left) and Josh Katawick in “The King’s Face” (Contributed photo by Art Fabian)

At the same rate, the outstanding Charles Larkowski, an absolute natural as Bradmore, effortlessly supported Katawick, genuinely yet cautiously fueling Bradmore’s desire to create a connection and establish trust with his future king. Adopting the warm, personable tones in his narrative duties that served him well as Cosmé McMoon in the Dayton Theatre Guild’s 2011 production of “Souvenir,” Larkowski excellently blended the roles of father, brother, therapist, priest and teacher as the play’s vivid portrait of friendship evolved.
“I enjoyed every minute of the whole process of putting (the play) together,” said Larkowski, a retired music historian who ensured all of the music in the play had a connection to Henry V. “I found both characters to be interesting and even enigmatic in certain ways. Bradmore’s professed aloofness and professionalism are a wonderful contrast to Henry’s more fiery or mercurial nature. Also noteworthy is the play’s range from highly intellectual/abstract content to the immediate, physical and visceral, which makes audiences think and squirm in their seats multiple times before the evening ends. I’ve been really overwhelmed by the response to this play. It’s definitely one of my most memorable theatrical experiences.”

“This play has a heart and a head,” said Sneed. “It is very original and highly dramatic with extreme theatricality. It is one of the best examples of a play staying in period but (remaining) accessible. I felt like I was watching a very good example of a playwright being a master of his universe.”

“This play could be performed anywhere,” said Sholiton. “It is a fully realized piece with stunning, brilliant writing.”

“I was astonished by the acting,” added Finkle, who rated the performances on par with the best of John Gielgud, Kenneth Branagh and Laurence Olivier. “This was a superlative production.”
“The actors were very attentive to the heighted language and dialect needs of the script,” said Young, a Dallas-based playwright. “They fully embraced the physical demands of (Harry’s) injury as well as the psychological state of a wounded warrior. I thought Geoff Burkman had a fantastic sense of the pacing, mood and arc of the play. Also, the simplicity of the production values supported the performances, but allowed the acting and text to remain in the forefront. Given the response of the adjudicators I was pleased they touched on the relationship of the characters, the search for a father figure, the nature of leadership and war.”

A Position of Relative Importance

David Gaylor (left) and Titus Wolverton in “A Position of Relative Importance” (Contributed photo by Art Fabian)

“A Position of Relative Importance,” Borden’s impressive playwrighting debut which opened the festival Friday, was also a veritable home run. Breezily and sharply directed by Debra Kent, “Position” told the charming story of humble, educated and unemployed Frank (a thoroughly engaging Titus Wolverton) who suddenly advances within a New York City business due to mistaken identity and unexpected bonds. Kent’s terrific cast included David Gaylor, Meagan Kuchan, Jared Mola and Dave Nickel.

“This play is totally wonderful and very fresh,” said Finkle, who noted the script brought to mind musical theater classics “A Chorus Line” and “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying. “It’s all very real but also surreal. You never know where the story is going but it’s always a surprise.”
“The characters are sparkling and keep you interested,” said Speert. “It was a lot of fun.”
“Seeing the play on its feet for the first time, I was surprised at how little it surprised me,” said Borden, a Philadelphia trademark lawyer. “To a remarkable degree, what I saw on stage matched what I’d seen in my head when I wrote it even though the script itself says very little about the physical aspects of the production.”

A Position of Relative2

Titus Wolverton (left) and Jared Mola in “A Position of Relative Importance” (Contributed photo by Art Fabian)

Borden was also appreciative of the commitment and generous hospitality displayed by the festival’s numerous volunteers.
“I can’t talk about FutureFest without talking about the devotion of the organizers and volunteers,” he said. “On Saturday, Chuck Larkowski chauffeured a group of writers from the Playhouse to Marion’s Piazza for lunch. By Sunday, he was on stage giving one of the best performances I’ve ever seen in a role he might only play once in his life. I’m not sure that kind of thing happens anywhere else. In three days, I met more interesting people, and made more new friends, than I had in the past three years.”

Mola, likely to receive DayTony Awards this weekend for his knockout performances last season in the Dayton Playhouse’s “Dracula” and the Dayton Theatre Guild’s “Ghosts,” was the only actor featured in two plays. Juggling the roles of marketing whiz Trevor in “Position” and inquisitive young artist Danny in “Olives” may have appeared daunting, but he regards both assignments as an unforgettable introduction.

“From the time I started doing shows in Dayton last year, people have been telling me about how amazing and unique FutureFest is,” said Mola. “Six original plays in 48 hours takes a lot of effort and a lot of love from everyone involved. I can say with only slight hyperbole that the experience was awe-inspiring. It was everything it was built up to be and more. I think ‘Position’ is a really successful comedy because it’s layered with immediate punchlines and setups that build throughout. It’s that kind of intricate ebb and flow that makes writing a tight comedy so difficult, but this was one of those shows where every joke lands. Even as a ‘straightforward’ comedy in a field of shows with more emotional heft and tackling serious subject matter, I’m thrilled the adjudicators knew how rare of a feat it was.”

Additional components of the festival included a slew of fine performances: Risa Hillsman and a truly mesmerizing Annie Pesch in “Veils” (directed by FutureFest program director Fran Pesch); Wendi Michael, Jim Lockwood, Jordan Norgaard, Richard Young, David Hollowren and Cynthia Karns in “The One with Olives” (directed by Nancy K. Campbell); Shawn Hooks, Jennifer Lockwood, K.L. Storer, Heather Campbell Martin and John Bukowski in “On the Road to Kingdom Come” (directed by Saul Caplan);  and Rick Flynn, Brian Sharp, Leo Santucci, Travis J. Cook, Naman Clark, Dodie Lockwood, Art Fabian and Kelli Locker in “St. Paulie’s Delight” (directed by Kathy Mola). The striking technical contributions for “The King’s Face” (costume design by Deirdre Root, scenic design by Fran Pesch, lighting design by John A. Falkenbach, props/extractor fabrication by Blake Senseman, prosthetics/makeup by Jacklyn Alexa, and properties by Jim Foreman and Amanday Gray) are equally praiseworthy.
Looking back on the whirlwind weekend, Young and Borden, who will each receive a plaque and $1,000, remain grateful to have been finalists and share the coveted title of outstanding playwright. It’s not out of the question to assume they will spread the word about just how special this nationally recognized festival continues to be.
“FutureFest is a unique event in the theater world and the experience speaks well of Dayton, the Playhouse and the commitment of its leadership and supporters,” said Young. “I found the entire weekend to be inspiring and invigorating.”
“FutureFest was one of the best experiences I’ve had as a writer,” added Borden. “I’m going to have to come back to Dayton some other time of year just to confirm that it’s a real place and not an illusion Fran Pesch pulled out of her magic hat.”
Mark your calendars! FutureFest will return July 25-27, 2014. For more information, visit www.daytonplayhouse.org.

 

2013 FutureFest Audience Favorite:ff
“The King’s Face”

 

My 2013 FutureFest Ranking:
1. “The King’s Face”

2. “A Position of Relative Importance”

3. “Veils”

4. “St. Paulie’s Delight”

5. “On the Road to Kingdom Come”

6. “The One with Olives”

Food Adventures Takes Aim at Archer’s + $20 Gift Certificate !!

By 25 Comments

You have driven by and seen the packed parking lot, so you know something is up.  Archer’s Tavern has just surpassed its 3rd year in business and is still cookin’ right along in more ways than one.  Owner’s Dan Apolito, Scott Dorsten and Mike Fullenkamp have a great formula for success.  Good food, good drink, and affordable prices.  The owners also immerse themselves in the community, donating to various churches, charities and youth organizations.  The belief is “If you do good things for people, it will come back to you.”  The menu, which is printed on newspaper, keeps customers coming back for sure.

Archer’sm, located at 9496 Dayton Lebanon Pike, is a family pub-style restaurant named after John Archer Jr.  who owned Centerville’s first tavern.  This nod to history is true to form with ownership’s belief in local involvement.

From Burgers and Pizzas, to Salads and Craft Beers, there is something for everyone at Archer’s Tavern.  Don’t forget the special events they showcase from time to time.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Family Friendly Atmosphere with a pub feel.  You could bring the kids here after a soccer game, or sit at the bar with some friends.

— Great Craft Beer selection on tap and in bottles.  Archer’s partners with regional breweries for some rare, delicious selections.  Their rotating selection is sure to please thirsty patrons.

The Brandon Burger features Zink’s Local Beef , a fried egg, and bacon on top.

— Affordable meals with most selections in  the $7-$10 range.  They even have a burger for under $4.

— Don’t miss their special events throughout the year.  Whether it is a crawfish boil to celebrate their anniversary or a beer/menu tasting featuring Goose Island beers, these events are worth checking out.  Stay tuned to their website and Facebook Page to keep up with the latest happenings.   Here is EXCLUSIVE SCOOP on the next upcoming event !

****EXCLUSIVE SCOOP !  YOU HEARD IT HERE FIRST ! ***

Archer’s will feature a CHILI COOKOFF on Saturday, September 14th from 2pm-4pm.  Do you have a winning recipe?  Limited to 20 entrants, the winning person’s chili will be featured on the Archer’s menu for an entire year.  There is also a cash prize of $200.  To enter the contest, stop into Archers Tavern, but do it quickly as space is limited to the first 20 entrants.  Food Adventures will be celebrity judges and you can be a judge too!  Just show up the day of the event and pay $10 to sample the 20 chili entries and cast your vote.   Join us for this FOOD ADVENTURE !  The money collected will go to the Centerville High School Culinary Student fund or the Archer’s Scholarship Fund.  Again,  Archer’s is giving back to the community.  We love and respect that.

Archer’s Ale – a damn good craft beer

With so much going on in this place, we offer up our suggestions on some of the best.  As with all of our Food Adventures, we have been here numerous times and tried almost everything on the menu.

If you have not yet been to Archer’s, let Big Ragu, Chef House and Hungry Jax point you in the right direction.

MUST EATS:

— THE BRANDON BURGER:  This burger is a favorite.  It features a fried egg and bacon all on top of a fresh Zink’s Meat Market Burger.  It is quite simply one of the best burgers in town.

— ARCHER’S ALE:  An ESB (Extra Special Bitter), that is an original craft beer.  A quality brew to be appreciated by the beer connoisseur in you.  Smooth and easy, this is an enjoyable drink for those ESB lovers.

— CITRUS CHICKEN SALAD – Grilled chicken on a bed of fresh greens, mixed with a balsamic dressing.   Other toppings include mandarin oranges, cranberries, bleu cheese crumbles and almonds.  A healthy and tasty alternative!

—  THE MARGHERITA PIZZA:  Fresh Mozzarella and a smooth tomato sauce is the key to this pizza.  Fresh basil leaves and Roma tomatoes top off this vegetarian pie nicely.

— THE PHILLY CHEESESTEAK: A heaping sandwich filled with meat, peppers and melted provolone cheese.  You can also request cheese whiz on this monster.  We say, go for it.  This is how they do it in Philadelphia.  Your choice of ribeye steak or chicken for the meat.

— THE STICKY BURGER:  A burger with peanut butter on it? YES!  The result is a unique taste, reminiscent of a Thai Peanut Sauce.   This burger is the Big Ragu’s Favorite.  It also comes with bacon and smoked pepper jack cheese.  This is a curiously good burger that you won’t soon forget.

— CRAZY UNCLE JESTER’S HOT SAUCE:  Archer’s is partnered with a local hot sauce maker that really lights things up.  Make sure and ask your waitress to bring out some different flavored bottles of Crazy Uncle Jester’s Hot Sauce.   Add it to some wings, chili or whatever you want to pack a wallop of flavor.  Good stuff here, some of it isn’t for the squeamish.

Margherita Pizza – Savor that Fresh Mozzarella

Finally, this article would be incomplete if we didn’t talk about the servers.  Our many experiences have shown us that this friendly staff cares about the customers and shows commitment in offering good service.  The management instills this belief from the top down.  If you love decent prices for good food, then give Archer’s Tavern a shot.  This place is about relaxing in a fun eatery.  Our advice is, scan the beer selection, order a burger or one of our  ‘must eats’  and then… enjoy.   In  this Food Adventure, you can be sure that Archer’s will hit the bullseye !

Browse through our photo album of literally dozens of menu items and features from past special events.  Are you a Foodie?  Then “like” Food Adventures on Facebook HERE !

[flagallery gid=50]

$20 GIFT CERTIFICATE CONTEST !!

Please register below  and tell us below in the comments why you should win a $20 Gift Certificate to ARCHER’S TAVERN, and a winner will be chosen on MONDAY ![form 55 “DMM Contest Entry – Generic”]

Cityfolk to Focus on Jazz – Cancels Season, Festival and other Programs

By Leave a Comment

Ruthie Foster at the 2010 Cityfolk Festival.©2010 Andy Snow

Ruthie Foster at the 2010 Cityfolk Festival.©2010 Andy Snow

After several years of financial challenges, including a rained out festival in 2012, a festival in 2013 that didn’t meet its attendance goals, along with declining ticket sales and sponsorships, Cityfolk has announced it will focus on jazz, while canceling its 2013-14 season and its plans for a 2014 festival. It will also discontinue its residency program, Culture Builds Community, and has withdrawn from its anticipated partnership with The Dayton Art Institute.  Ohio’s only full-time traditional arts presenter was founded in 1980, and was committed to presenting ethnic and traditional folk arts. Through the years Cityfolk presented Celtic music, jazz, blues, world music, American roots, and more. In 1996, the National Folk Festival chose Dayton as its location for a three-year run. After the third year, Cityfolk kept the tradition going. Early festivals were at Courthouse Square and surrounding streets. Recent festivals have been at Riverscape.

According to Matt Dunn, Cityfolk Board President, Cityfolk knew it had to change its business model. “Even prior to last year’s festival, we were realizing declining ticket sales, sponsorships, and government support,” said Dunn. “The rain that devastated last year’s festival put us in a deeper hole and sped up our process for making changes, including having a fundraising campaign, while also letting go of some staff.”

The change, according to Dunn, included the staff reductions, a post-festival campaign following the 2012 festival, seeking potential partners, and making the decision to charge admission for the 2013 festival. “Many festival-goers,” Dunn said, “didn’t realize we were a non-profit organization with a full-time staff and year-round programming. The festival costs money to produce and we couldn’t continue to offer it for free.” The other change involved a pending partnership with The Dayton Art Institute.  That change was to take place after the festival. According to Dunn, Cityfolk had planned to let its remaining staff go, and responsibilities for the programming and management of Cityfolk would have been contracted with The Dayton Art Institute, under a management agreement. Likely because of a combination of rain and the paid admission, the festival didn’t meet its attendance goals. “Money raised at the festival is used to support the organization’s year-round programming,” Dunn said. “And this year’s festival came up short.”

“It’s disappointing,” said Michael Roediger, Executive Director at The Dayton Art Institute, “We were looking forward to a relationship that would have been beneficial to both organizations.” Dunn and Roediger both acknowledge that a lot of work went into defining the partnership with the hope that new and creative opportunities would evolve to capitalize on, and integrate, the mission and strengths of both organizations.

In recent years, other arts organizations realized they needed to change in order to realize economies of scale. The most prominent and recent change was the merger between the Dayton Opera, Dayton Ballet, and Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra to form the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance. Before that, Carillon Park and the Montgomery County Historical Society merged to become Dayton History. While the partnership between Cityfolk and The Dayton Art Institute wasn’t a merger, each organization was hoping its structure would have impacted their bottom lines in a favorable way. However, citing the desire to enter into the partnership with cash on hand, and no debt, Dunn said “in the end, we just couldn’t make the numbers work.” He continued, “It would have been irresponsible to enter into a partnership knowing that we wouldn’t be able to meet our commitment or live up to our end of the agreement.” Taking it a step further, Dunn continued, “The only responsible thing to do is to discontinue programs that lost money.”

While the 2013-14 concert season was announced at the 2013 Festival, no tickets have been sold, according to Dunn. Shows, in partnership with the University of Dayton’s Arts Series, will continue. The other shows will be canceled. Knowing the power of the arts, and referring to Culture Builds Community and the Welcome Dayton initiative, in which Cityfolk was involved, Dunn said, “hopefully the community will continue to use the arts to affect social change and to bring people together using the arts as a bridge between cultures.”

“Cityfolk has 33 years of history under its belt,” said Dunn, “We have had great relationships with major institutions, including the City of Dayton, Five Rivers Metroparks, Dayton Public Schools, the University of Dayton, WYSO, The Dayton Art Institute, The Masonic Center, Gilly’s, Canal Street Tavern, and more. We’re grateful to the county, the city, the Ohio Arts Council, Culture Works, the National Endowment for the Arts, and our many volunteers, sponsors, foundations, members, and other supporters. We’re proud of the diverse artistic experiences we’ve brought to Dayton. That will be our legacy.”

While suspending normal operations will allow the organization to down-size, Dunn hopes Cityfolk will not go away completely.  An all-volunteer-led Cityfolk will use the coming weeks to assess its options to continue presenting jazz, for which it has an endowment to help cover the costs. The endowment, specifically for presenting and preserving jazz, was raised locally and matched by the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation. Said Dunn, “Cityfolk is committed to keeping this money in the community and using it for the purpose for which it was intended.”

GLSEN Working Locally To Promote Anti-LGBT Bullying in Schools

By Leave a Comment

glsensagifGLSEN Greater Dayton is excited to be active again in the Dayton and surrounding areas. The goal of GLSEN Greater Dayton, is for every student, in every school, to be valued and treated with respect, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. GLSEN  believes that ALL students deserve a safe and affirming school environment where they can learn and grow.  The Dayton chapter was   reformed in September 2012 and is now active in a 19 county area from Dayton, to Celina, to Columbus. They are one of 38 chapters across the nation spreading respect in our local schools.

They  accomplish these goals by working in hallways across the country — from Congress and the Department of Education to schools and district offices in your community — to improve school climate and champion LGBT issues in K-12 education.

Currently, CLSEN is seeking educators, school administrators, and principals to join them on August 6, 2013 at the Downtown Dayton Metro Library for their  first Teacher’s meeting at 6:30 PM. They have numerous resources to provide to teachers about respect in the classroom, safe playgrounds, and activities to promote individuality.  The  teacher’s meeting will be conducted by Lasue Juniel, a local teacher at Kiser PreK – 8 School and Kevin Mabrey, Co-Chair of GLSEN Greater Dayton. More information on the meeting can be found here.
[yframe url=’https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_967ZXI9qIE’]

GLSEN Greater Dayton has made some great local connections with schools and is hopeful to be able to connect with more schools and educators soon. They recently sent Safe Space Kits to all Middle and High Schools in our territory to promote respect in our communities. Their main goal is to have a GLSEN advocate represented in every school![yframe url=’https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_967ZXI9qIE’]

Every day GLSEN works to ensure that LGBT students are able to learn and grow in a school environment free from bullying and harassment. Join them as they transform our nation’s K-12 schools. If you or anyone you know are interested in making our schools a safe space for kids, please contact us at [email protected], Twitter @GLSENDayton, or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/GLSENDayton.

 

 

Celebrate Hot Yoga’s First Anniversary with Free Classes

By Leave a Comment

cache_3037310604Join us for a day of celebration as we welcome everyone to the studio to try any class free of charge. Please bring a mat, towel, and a bottle of water. We will have lot’s of specials, and give aways! Please come 10 minutes early. If this will be your first time to the studio , you will need to sign a waiver. All classes 90 minutes. Please arrive on time , doors are locked at the start of class. This is for the safety of yourself and your belongings.

NEW STUDENTS
Please be well hydrated prior to your first class, drink plenty of water up to 24 hrs. before attending class. Try to eat 2-3 hrs before class, so you will have an empty stomach. If you must eat prior to class please choose fresh and healthy fruits and vegetables.

Class times:

9 am – Hot Series w/ Sarah A. – In Hot Series we do 26 poses, each done twice. We start with a breathing exercise followed by a standing series, a floor series, and finishing with a breathing exercise. All levels welcome to this class.

5 pm – Hot Power Flow w/ Anca – Come to this highly energizing class that will flow along to some great tunes. This class will move along at a faster pace.

7 pm – Hot Vinyasa w/ Becky – Vinyasa means ‘ breath synchronized movement ‘ Be ready to flow through this yoga class as you practice a variety of asanas, and learn the power of inhaling and exhaling.

Come in to our hot studio and let us help you take your yoga practice to a new level. We practice several types of yoga in a room that is heated to 95-100 degrees. The heat is going to help warm your muscles for greater flexibility, and to achieve a deeper stretch. Get ready to flush the toxins from your body as you sweat your way through class burning upwards of 600-1,000 calories.

Enjoy all of these great benefits from hot yoga:
* Tones, strengthens, and lengthens your muscles

*Reduce weight- lose pounds by balancing your
metabolism

*Restore flexibility

*Improve circulation

Sweat, work hard, have fun, and leave feeling wonderful!

The Tastiest Week of the Summer is Back

By Leave a Comment

Diners will once again get an opportunity to eat at some of the Miami Valley’s  best restaurants at affordable prices, while helping to support  local charity’s during Restaurant Week July 28 – Aug 4th. Looks like this time around there are about 50 restaurant to choose from, down about 10 from last summer’s promotion.    Restaurants will be offering multi-course prix fixe menus at either $20.13, $25.13 or $30.13.

DaytonDinings Tips:  Make reservations when possible

New this year, many restaurants seem to be offering multiple price points to choose from and guests can choose the menu they prefer.  You’ll find many of the menu’s  on the MVRA site.  Spinoza’s, Hickory River Smokehouse, McGullicutty’s  and Nick’s  are offering to feed a couple for $20.13.  The Caroline in Troy is including a glass of beer or wine, plus 3 courses with their options and Christopher’s options include 4 courses to choose from.

Expect crowds!

Many restaurants are closed on Sun &/or Monday- check first

Traditionally Restaurant Week has kicked off on Sunday and ended on Friday.  This summer’s promotion has been extended to run Sunday through Sunday.   And keep your eye out, several restaurants often carry over the dining deals for a second week.

No matter where you chose to dine, part of the package includes a donation to charity partners.  $1 of each meal will be split between  Cancer Support Community of Western Ohio and the MVRA scholarship fund.

While saving on your meal- splurge on wine to compliment your meal

Many people have a love/hate relationship with Restaurant Week.  Before I go any further, I should admit that I was the President of the Restaurant Association when this promotion was launched in 2005 and I am quite proud of the impact it’s had on our community.  But I also know folks that dine out regularly and yet avoid this week due to the crowds.  I also have a group of friends that can’t wait for the menu’s to be posted so they can plan their eating extravaganzas.

Restaurant staff also have mixed feelings about this promotion.  Most appreciate that they will be busy all week, but I’ve heard bartenders complain that while the servers and cooks are busy, that guests aren’t buying anything but the dining deal and therefore they don’t make much money.  As a former restaurateur, I know that those who embrace this promotion as a marketing opportunity are the ones that get the most from it. Owver/Chef Wiley at Meadowlark has been a great example from the very beginning.  She involved her staff, planned creative meals and promoted the menu’s ahead of time to her regular guests and even poured wine for waiting guests.

Menu offerings can change – be flexible

I too, have things I dislike about this week.  Like restaurants that sign up for the promotion, but don’t get buy in from their staff.  I’ve been to several places that print a special Restaurant Week menu on an insert and the guests get seated without the promo menu. Whether  intentional or an oversight, I’ve then heard guests questioning whether the restaurant is participating or that they don’t see the $20.13 meal.  Restaurants please don’t make it hard for guests to partake.  The MVRA also promotes a contest offering guests a chance to win gift certificates for filling out a comment card, but many restaurants don’t pass them out- so be sure and ask your server for yours and your meal deal can really pay off if you win!

If you do go out for these dining deals, please keep in mind that for many places, this is the busiest week of the year for them and that can mean longer waits, frazzled staff and sometimes running out of the advertised items.  Be patient and please remember to share the savings you got on your meal when you tip.  Happy dining!

June Home Sales in Dayton Best in Five Years

By Leave a Comment

DABR stats juneBeen looking for a home, but can’t find one you love? Found a home you love but it sold to someone else before you wrote an offer? Last year you saw tons of homes you liked and they were on the market for a long time, but now that you are ready to buy, the market has changed? You are not imagining things. Dayton has posted the most sales for June since 2007, just before the economic downturn began. First half 2013 sales stats are up at the Dayton Area Board of Realtors (DABR), here are some highlights from the report:

  • June’s transactions produced a cumulative sales volume of over $183.8 million, which translated to an average sale price of $142,288, 9.27% higher than last June’s $130,211, and represented the highest monthly sales price since June of 2008. The median sales price was $124,000, a 10.2% increase compared to June 2012.
  • June’s robust showing topped off an excellent first half of 2013, which saw 6,290 sales transactions of single-family homes and condominiums take place, compared to 5,412 during the first half of 2012, a 16.2% increase.
  • A cumulative sales volume of over $783 million brought the average sale price to $124,497 and the median sale price to $105,500 for the six-month period. These were increases of 4% and 7%, respectively.
  • This was the third straight month of increases in listing entries compared to 2012, as activity for both listings and sales seemed to be picking up steam.

Every market has its unique opportunities. 2011-2012 were great years for investors, this market is good for move-up buyers. First- time buyers are finally making their move and those sellers in move-up markets who have been just waiting for the market to return are finally putting their homes up for sale, add in that interest rates are still low, and you’ve got a nice opportunity to sell your home for a great price and also buy while interest rates are low.

For you number-crunching types, the complete DABR report, with stats and links to charty-goodness, can be found here.

Experience the Best of Downtown During the Aug. 2 First Friday

By Leave a Comment

SAMSUNG CSC

Roaming performers, saxophonist Tyrone Martin and steel drum player Joseph Glenn, entertain the crowd during the July First Friday.

Art. Music. Shopping. Food. Fun. First Friday in downtown Dayton is about all of these things.

This free event will be held from 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, Aug. 2, throughout downtown. The August First Friday is always one of the year’s largest, and this year promises to be the same with the range of activities taking place. Roaming performers — the McGovern Ceili Dancers, acoustic duo Pourover and juggler Tony Steinbach — will provide entertainment throughout downtown.

If you plan to enter the Downtown in Focus photo contest, be sure to bring your camera along. From 8 to 11 p.m., most of downtown’s buildings will be lit for photographers who would like to capture city nightscapes to enter in the competition.

Just a few events taking place during the Aug. 2 First Friday are listed below:

Are you ready to rock? Canal Street Tavern (308 E. First St.) is presenting a tribute show by American Pink Floyd. The show starts at 9 p.m. and tickets are $12. Call 937-461-9343.

In honor of the second anniversary of Clash Consignment (521 E. Fifth St.), the store will throw a party to celebrate with all its customers. Entertainment will be provided by DJs Mike Wishnewski and Matt Freeman and henna artist Lily Whitehead. Boston Bistro will cater, and a $2 sidewalk sale will be held. Work by artist Robert Walker also will be featured. Call 937-241-9434.

The monthly Courteous Mass Ride will meet for two rides this month at Don Crawford Plaza in front of Fifth Third Field, (220 N. Patterson Blvd.). The first will ride leaves at 5:30 p.m. and the second at 7 p.m. Rides are free of charge and all skill levels are welcome. This month’s route will go past the downtown dog park, hit spots in Old North Dayton and surrounding areas (DATV, Mike Sell’s Potato Chips, Charlie’s Deli and Whitewater Warehouse) and head down the Mad River bike path back.

Synergy Incubators  will produce their fourth  First Friday Food Truck Rally.  Street Food is all the ragea and Dayton Food Park  (2oo S. Jefferson St.) will have 14 of Dayton’s food trucks lined up from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.  After you grab some grub, browse through the booths of local artisans that include jewelry, homemade soaps, pottery and other crafts.

To celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Great Dayton Flood, the Dayton Visual Arts Center (118 N. Jefferson St.) is showcasing artwork by local artists around the theme “Water, Water Everywhere.” Visitors can talk to the featured artists from the exhbit. The gallery will be open until 8 p.m. Call 937-224-3822.

Green Baby (31 S. St. Clair St.) will exhibit work by local artist Bley Hack, offer free chair massages to visitors and host a sale on select children’s items. The store will be open until 8 p.m. Call 469-8665.

Miami-Jacobs (110 N Patterson Blvd.) will host a Summer Block Party. HOT-FM 102.9 and WROU-FM 92.1 will broadcast live from the event, and entertainment includes a photo booth, indoor cornhole tournament and outdoor games. Call 937-668-0213.

As part of the First Friday Salsa Music Series, Son del Caribe will play live music from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at RiverScape MetroPark (111 E. Monument Ave.) on the MetroPark Pavilion Stage. Experience sounds that include salsa and other styles of Latin dance music. Call 937-274-0126.

Sew Dayton (16 Brown St.) will showcase artist-of-the-month Craig Galentine, creator of the The Kokeshi Clan. A group of local children will be selling lemonade for Hanna’s Treasure Chest outside the store and the winner of the “Make It Work” contest will be announced, along with the next challenge. Call 937-234-7398.

Wiley’s Comedy Niteclub (101 Pine St.) presents Cutthroat Freakshow by Dirty Little Secrets. This off-the-beaten-track show begins at 9 p.m. Tickets are $10 for 18 and older. Call 937-224-5653.

First Friday is presented by the Downtown Dayton Partnership with support from the Oregon District Business Association and Rev. Cool’s “Around the Fringe” show that airs on Fridays from 8 p.m. to midnight on WYSO-FM 91.3. The Downtown Dayton Partnership’s website has a complete list of downtown’s arts and cultural amenities, as well as a dining guide, parking map and much more. Download the Find It Downtown mobile search tool for smartphones at http://mobile.downtowndayton.org.

A complete list of what downtown businesses have on tap for First Friday is available on the DDP website. Call 937-224-1518 or email [email protected] for more information.

2013 Ohio Ride for Autism Run July 27th

By Leave a Comment

courtesy of Make It Fit Foundation

courtesy of Make It Fit Foundation

The fourth annual Ohio Ride for Autism Poker Run will be held Saturday, July 27th at 10 a.m. at C&A Harley Davidson 7610 Commerce Place, Plain City. Event proceeds will benefit Autism Speaks, Make It Fit Foundation, Ingram Autism Research Center, Recreation Unlimited, the Autism Society of Ohio, and the Lettuce Work Foundation.  500-1000 participants are expected as event organizers hope to raise $30,000 for Autism Research. Proceeds will also help buy IPads for, Cookies for IPads to help kids with autism communicate with the outside world.

Registration begins 9 a.m. with a $10 entry fee at C&A Harley Davidson in Plain City, with the run ending at 4 p.m. at Quaker Steak & Lube on Lyra Drive in Columbus, with stops at The Waldo American Legion Post 605, Waldo Ohio, Recreation Unlimited in Ashley and The Mudflats Bar & Grill in Galena during the day. There will be activities and festivities at the finish line including a live auction, raffles, drawings and more.

This is the events fourth year and the Make It Fit Foundation is honored to have Boyd’s Tire & Service Centers, C&A Harley Davidson, Quaker Steak & Lube, Thunder Roads Magazine, Beckner’s Custom Cycles and Glassburn Body Shop as Official Event Sponsors.

Make It Fit founder Mike Hoover is overjoyed by the attention and support shown by the community. “I’m incredibly humbled by the outpouring of support and effort we receive from our volunteers, participants, sponsors, donors and the media. What makes The Make It Fit Foundation work are the people that give themselves to collectively make a difference and they see it happening around them. We’re moms, dads, friends, strangers and regular people that get together for a common cause and have fun doing it and it helps others.”

“With autism affecting 1 in 88 families the number of people whose lives have been impacted have grown astronomically. We feel that we’re all in this together and together we’ll do all we can to make the most impact possible with every dollar raised.”

The Make It Fit Foundation is 100% run by volunteers and every dime made, other than expenses does directly to areas where we feel we can make the biggest difference.

“It’s truly a humbling and almost spiritual thing to see hundreds upon hundreds of motorcycle enthusiasts and bikers spending their precious time and money to do something good and 100% completely unselfish.”

Gem City Cycling: How Dayton Became The Best Of Ohio

By Leave a Comment

Gem City Cycling - OhioActive

Cycling in Downtown Dayton (Photograph by bsom, Flickr)

Dayton might not be the first city that comes to mind as a cycling haven in Ohio. Surely Cleveland, Columbus or Cincinnati has more to offer than a city with less than 150,000 residents, right?

Turns out the Gem City is arguably king of Ohio cycling with the Miami Valley claiming 330 miles of trail to explore and a bronze ranking from the League of American Bicyclists in 2010. Not to mention the area is served by the competitive Team Dayton Cycling and the Dayton Cycling Club on the advocacy front. And nobody involved in Dayton cycling plans to slow down anytime soon as the aerospace hub continues its march toward building a community cycling commuters and athletes can be proud of.

Complete Streets

Matthew Lindsay, Manager of Environmental Planning for the Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission (MVRPC), describes himself as a fair weather bike commuter to his downtown office. His first assignment put him in charge of the Comprehensive Local-Regional Bikeways plans. Lindsay says this offered the opportunity to engage with long-time and new cycling advocates across the Dayton region.

“Soon after the plan was done, I brought a group of interested people together and we founded Courteous Mass Dayton,” Lindsay explains, describing the event as a cousin of the national Critical Mass movement where cyclists take the streets in a monthly ride to remind motorists of their presence. Today, Courteous Mass has expanded since its 2009 inception with additional rides, meet ups and even a social media presence. “I’m very proud that it has continued and is growing.”

Growing, indeed. But not just the Courteous Mass rides. New trails continue to be constructed as an integral piece of the Miami Valley Bike Trails system.

“The Regional Bikeways Plan envisions our network of trails as the interstates for bikes, connecting between communities and across county lines,” Lindsay describes. “The vision here is that these trails will lead to vibrant communities with bike-safe streets so that a cyclist can exit the trail and continue through town safely to the final destination.”

It’s all part of the MVRPC’s complete streets policy, a transportation design that requires streets to be compatible for all ages regardless of their choice of transportation. “Each new piece of trail, each new connected complete street makes the whole system more valuable.”

Hooked

Chuck Smith, Chair of the Ohio Bicycle Federation and Vice President of the Dayton Cycling Club, agrees with Lindsay’s sentiment. A “serious cyclist” since riding his bike to school in the 5th grade, Smith calls the Dayton River Corridor Bikeway System the city’s greatest success story. “This system follows the Great Miami, Mad and Stillwater rivers and has grown to become more than just recreational trails,” he explains, noting how he has personally benefited from the system. “I rode the Great Miami Trail every day on my bike ride home from work at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base to my home in Vandalia over a 22-year period and 52,000 cycling miles.” That’s not even counting the miles he puts on as a member of Team Dayton.

To read the rest of the story please go to Ohio-Active.

OhioActive’s mission is to increase awareness of Ohio’s recreational opportunities while providing in-depth fitness knowledge to individuals seeking to live an active lifestyle. Our goal is to tell engaging stories of  local everyday athletes in order to demonstrate that we all have the power to get fit, healthy and active. We sometimes just need a little help and encouragement!.

Dog Days of Summer

By Leave a Comment

1002107_10200273167699469_851988554_nMany of us here in Dayton, myself included, are crazy about spending time with our four legged pals. Luckily there are lots of places to take them these days that are “dog friendly” In the greater Dayton area we are lucky to have ten off leash dogs parks, pet friendly venues, an indoor dog park and daycare pet paradises. In addition to these pet perks there are also tons of fun pet events in the area including my favorite the “Splash in Dash” which is held in Xenia every August.

Downtown Dayton’s newest dog park Deeds Point is located on the river and up the road from Kettering fields. This park has been a work in progress and has taken some tough canine advocates to put this all together. Local board member and canine advocate Karen Stephens had this to say about the park: “We’ve been in operation a little over a year and in that time, in 529972_3227163510924_135917808_nconjunction with the city, have installed double gates, fixed fences, cleared brush and met a wonderful dog loving community in the heart of the city! We have several upcoming benefits to help raise the funds for establishing our non profit status. Once we have that, we can get liability insurance to open the bathrooms, upgrade the food stand, and hopefully lure someone with a hot dog stand knowledge to run our little food station. We also want to raise funds for a small dog area and a socialization area. This is a small area that allows dogs that need socialization, to feel secure in a small environment, but still can interact through the fence with the other dogs. The last thing is that we have an area that used to be a wading pool. It is still under discussion what to do with this area.” Parks like these are popping up throughout the area and providing a much needed area for dogs to socialize and get some energy out.

Keep in mind pet parks and events can be great fun but “owner beware” just because your pooch is well behaved doesn’t mean that everyone’s pet is. With that in mind here are some basic rules for the dog park:

  • All dogs must display a valid license.
  • Dogs must be current on their vaccinations
  • Leash all dogs while entering and exiting.
  • Owners must be within eyesight and voice control over their pets at all times.
  • Puppies under 4 months are prohibited to protect their own health. .Maximum of 3 dogs per adult.
  • All children must be monitored and accompanied by a guardian at all times.
  • Be prepared to leash your dog immediately if your pet becomes unruly, worrisome to others, aggressive to animals or humans, or displays mounting behavior .
  • Honor the request of others to leash your pet if asked.
  • Dogs in heat are not permitted
  • Aggressive and/or vicious dogs are not permitted.
  • CLEAN UP AFTER YOUR PET! WASTE MUST BE DISPOSED OF COMPLETELY!

For a full list of area dog parks please visit http://www.daytondogblog.com/2012/05/updated-list-of-dog-parks-in-dayton.html

MSPC (16)Maybe you are unsure of how your pet may react or you already know that your dog may not have the best social skills. No worries there are options to help even the hardest behavior issues! Pet paradises are a great option to get your dog on the right path or maybe you need a day away from home without worrying about who will let the dog out. Janee Moore owner of Moore Specialty Pet Care (MSPC) located off of Smithville Road has dedicated her home and life to helping dogs learn to be properly socialized. The mission of MSPC is as follows: ” To provide Personalized Quality Care for ALL Canines.  MSPC specializes in caring for and rehabilitating senior, traumatized, aggressive and rambunctious pets in a healthy pack atmosphere.  Through client education and training pets, we will strengthen the bond between owners and their beloved companions.  Our years of experience/knowledge of dog psychology/behavior will enhance pets’ lives by providing individualized rehabilitation and training. We create client convenience by offering multiple pet services and specialty products either on-site or at the client’s home.” It is important to note that this is a daycare not a kennel your dogs will be ridiculously spoiled walked several times a day and never be locked in a cage. Janee recommends having doggy play dates at your home especially if you have an un-socialized pet or a pet with issues. “Start with family that has dogs and move your way to all your friends or coworkers that own dogs.  Plan your play dates at each other’s houses to run around and go for walks or venture to constructions stores or Tractor Supply for a nice walk and sniff around the places.  Of course MSPC is available for doggies that need to be reminded of their doggy manners or build social skills.”

It is very important as pet owners to take responsibility for your pets behavior good or bad. 403890_3557657187726_1899818836_nWhen in a dog park environment or pet event there are always some minor scuffles that’s just the way it goes. The difference is pet parents who react by gaining control of their pets and the owners who are unable to do this thus causing injuries. The biggest problem are owners who don’t know how to properly introduce their dog to new dogs. Dogs are highly social creatures and will react when they feel scared, threatened or overly excited. We do have trainers in the area (Janee Moore and Kelly Kirsch) who specialize in helping owners and pets do this correctly. If you are not sure about your pet or have had problems at pet events in the past please consult a professional for proper training. Just because your pet may have reacted poorly in a social situation is not a reason to ban them or give up on trying. Usually it is something minor that can be corrected with training and consistency.

So you now have a perfectly mannered pet in Dayton so where should you go? There are lots and lots of fun events scheduled in the next months. A great local group called Dayton Dogs Unleashed schedule monthly outings to local dogs parks or dog friendly venues. Past events have included “Dogs Night Out” at Ritters, “4 Paws for Ability” 5k and mile walk, and the annual Woodland “Woof Walk.”  Other local events include:

Tails to Trails Hike

Friday, Aug 2 9:00am, Bellbrook

This dog hiking program is a fun opportunity to socialize. All dogs are required to have an accompanying adult human and six-foot leash. Participants must have control of their dogs at all times

Doggie Splash and Dash390846_407324069316280_1163834535_n

August 17- 210 Fairgrounds Road Xenia

5k-9 Run, Walk and Wag

Sunday, Sep 15 10:00a
Riverfront Park, Miamisburg

In conjunction with the 9th Annual Canine Carnival, this accurate 5K benefits the Humane Society of Greater Dayton

Canine Carnival

Sunday, Sep 15 10:00a
Riverfront Park, Miamisburg

This 9th annual event is a festival for dogs and the people they own

Blind Bob’s

Every Tuesday at 4pm-8pm Yappy Hour

Olive and Urban Dive

Well behaved dogs only allowed on patio when available.

 

If you know of other local events or pet friendly establishments please let us know! We look forward to seeing you and your furry companion around Dayton 🙂

Lights, Camera, Dance!

By Leave a Comment

Lights Camera Dance

Photo by Andy Snow”

Lights Camera Dance is a brand new idea – Gem City Ballet is opening up their ballet performances this season to photographers of all stripes or experience levels, and then hosting a juried show &  sale at the end of the season.   Earn money and support Gem City Ballet at the same time.  You’re probably saying – “You can’t take photos during a performance; that’s just wrong!”  But they’ll make it right.  Live dance can be one of the most exciting and challenging subjects for a photographer – beautiful dancers moving in colorful costumes under intense lighting.  This project will give photographers  a chance to explore this subject area with an intimacy and freedom seldom available.

The schedule of events includes:

  • Essentials of Dance Photography – an optional seminar taught by Andy Snow and held in the performance space, Sunday September 8, 2013, 2 pm.  A bargain at $20.
  • Performances to photograph – October 12, 2013 and/or February 8, 2014.  Please register!  Registration Deadline is September 13, 2013.
  • Access to rehearsals in the weeks prior to performance to become familiar with the dances and plan your photos.
  • Submit 3-5 framed prints of your choosing and/or up to 20 digital prints, submission deadline March 7, 2014.
  • Display at the GCB studio and at area galleries and art venues in Spring of 2014, including the final GCB repertory show of the season, April 25-27, 2014.
  • Online and live sales, March 15-April 30, 2014, will be split 60% to the photographer and 40% to Gem City Ballet, with copyright retained by the photographer.

Details and the registration link can be found at http://www.gemcityballet.org/LCD.html

Olive brings a New Orleans Flair to Wednesday Night

By 1 Comment

olive1

Jambalaya with KJB farms chorizo sausage, rice, and black beans, slow stewed in a tomato and tamarind sauce and topped with marinated grilled shrimp, avocado and pesto Greek yogurt. Served with grilled ciabatta.

Get your taste buds ready for  Walk in Wednesdays and   a taste of The Big Easy at Olive an urban dive.  Featuring atotally different dinner menu for their New Orleans summer palette adventures Wednesdays from 5-9p! No reservations needed or taken (unless you’re on your way). You can dine inside or on the fire lit patio.  They’ll  even welcome well  behaved dogs  on the patio.
The new menu will include seafood bouillabaisse, jambalaya, shrimp boil, fried green tomato sandwich, black and bleu burger, a whole different ‘rock your nosh’ (vegan and gluten free entree) and lots of creole seasonings flying in the kitchen and NOLA blues on the airwaves!

“Why?? The Sequel”

By 8 Comments

8e767afe23024f80ecfb9a925b0efb30

 

I was asked how I was going to follow up my first article, simply titled, “Why??”

 

It chronicles my journey from my small-town upbringing (cue John Mellencamp’s “Small Town.”) to residing in the big city…

 

Dayton.

 

First, I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all of your for your support and kind words of encouragement for my first article. I must say, I was a bit humbled… And now, here I sit, poised in front of my laptop, equally as humbled to have been asked to write a follow-up piece. (Thanks Lisa Grigsby!)

 

So… I know how this works… I am well aware of the failure rate when most bands release their sophomore album. Alanis Morisette’s first album “Jagged Little Pill sold 33 MILLION copies and won FOUR Grammys including Best Album in 1996. The song, “You Oughta Know” was an empowering anthem for jilted women, worldwide!

 

But can you name her second album? (Without turning to Google!)

 

Her subsequent SEVEN records haven’t sold but 27,000,000 copies COMBINED.

 

A similar phenomenon is true in the movie industry for movie sequels. (Have you seen “Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom”)?

 

Not that I am comparing my article to any blockbuster or hit record. I’m merely speaking to the pressure I felt when asked about writing a follow-up.

 

the ultimate comb over 1153

So, here goes…

 

I think my favorite comment to my last article is that I am “giving Dayton a comb over.”

 

Lefty Enderson then went on to compare me to Bruce Willis in “Last Man Standing!” (I had never been compared to a drifting gun-slinger-for-hire… until now!) Lefty ended our friendly exchange with “Good luck to you Scott, Dayton needs someone with your enthusiasm!”

 

Thanks Lefty!

 

I know there are a lot of people out there who love our city!

haters_gonna_hate_bumper_sticker-r96a2bd7452b64d50b029e7f376c4188c_v9wht_8byvr_512

 

And there are more than a few haters, too.
There is a current saying, “Haters gonna hate.”

 

I very much believe you will find whatever you’re looking for, wherever you go. Sure, the Miami Valley is also known as “Sinus Valley.” (Well, at least we are not known as “Mistake on the lake,” as is Cleveland!) Ok, ok… In a unified show of bilateral support, let’s all proclaim it together… Cleveland ROCKS!

 

failing-gradesI guess we can all take solace that we are not living in the city of Detroit… Which JUST filed for bankruptcy this past week.

 

But that’s just rationalization. If we feel better simply because some other city is in worse shape than we are in, that’s not optimism. That’s like being happy with the C you got on a test simply because someone else got a D. It’s like saying, “Things could always be worse.” Or,  “At least I didn’t fail.”

 

It always amazes me up when I ask someone “How are you doing?” and they respond with, “Well… I’m above ground!”

 

Wow… that’s setting the bar pretty low.

 

Is that how you want to feel about our city? “Well, it could be worse. We could be living in Detroit!”

 

I’m sorry, I am not happy with simply being “not dead.” Simply being above ground is not good enough for me.

 

cup_runneth_over

My cup runneth over!

I want to change how people perceive our city. I want people to begin thinking and speaking differently about our city. I want people to stop running Dayton into the ground, to stop complaining… and stop seeing the glass as half-empty and start seeing it as half-full!

 

If we have to start somewhere, let’s start right there! That’s at least a step in the right direction.

 

Watching the local news you’d think there are shootings almost daily. That’s it’s not safe to leave your home! That you better watch your back! It’s not safe out there…

 

fsg-crime-scene-response-unit-01I have actually talked to people who won’t come downtown. Seriously? Have you ever visited a major city like Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, Houston or Atlanta? How about Indianapolis or Columbus? Every city has its issues with crime, unemployment and trying to keep kids in school. Every city has its parts of town that no one wants to venture into after dark. Or perhaps even during daylight hours!

 

But I’m telling you, if you NEVER venture downtown, you are missing out!

 

For instance, on the First Friday in July, there was an amazing Food Truck Rally across from Gilly’s and the Dayton/Montgomery County Convention & Visitors Bureau at 200 Jefferson Street (back in the day it was Elbows, and more recently Sa-Bai restaurant.) Fifteen-ish food trucks offered up everything from Asparagus Fries to Zombie Dogz! The place was hopping! Seeing a couple thousand people munching and mingling made my heart go pitter-patter! I thought to myself, “This is happening right here in Dayton! And so many people are missing out on this!”

4020793_pQf830IfdDwe7xL6euBdI4DuVFFqG3DcwWc_KJqhf8A

I recently chatted with Connie Post, one of Cox Media’s “Dining Divas.” We ended up talking about all the great restaurants around town. Many are locally owned and operated and focus on utilizing locally grown, fresh produce. Olive, an Urban Dive is a prime example of one such restaurant. (Love their motto: “We chase chickens, when we say free range…. we mean it.”) We also agreed that Sunrise Café in Yellow Springs is a shared favorite of ours. And our list got longer as we talked. “Have you tried Roost yet?” “What about Lucky’s Taproom and Eatery?” “What do you think of the new Coco’s location?” “Ever been to Press coffee on Wayne (voted, by the way, one of the nation’s TOP TEN Coolest Coffee Houses by Zagat!) or Ghostlight Coffee?” (The place in South Park to hang out and get a little work done.)

 

Look, I gain nothing from writing this. I’m just a regular guy. But I Love Dayton! I have never gotten a free anything for all my years of promoting all the restaurants, festivals and events. (Perhaps I have garnered a little good will here and there…)

 

A famous playwright once said, “I hear you say “Why?” Always “Why?” You see things; and you say “Why?” But I dream things that never were; and I say “Why not?” My high school teacher, Mr. Wellbaum first introduced me to that quote. I have never forgotten it. I even dared to adopt it as my own. He also drilled into me, “It’s amazing what one can do, when one puts ones mind to it.”

 

What if…

 

What if every person in Dayton talked about his or her favorite breakfast spot on their Facebook page? I already know many that would top the list of favorites! Butter Café, and Tank’s are two of my faves! And don’t forget about a true east Dayton classic, Bunnie’s Hasty Tasty on Linden Ave! (Forget about the Bob Evans and Cracker Barrels. I’m talking LOCAL, here.)

jetsetz-cheap-dayton-ohio-travel-deals_1

What if everyone posted pics of their favorite Dayton landmarks Carillon Bells, Wright Brothers monument, Five Rivers MetroParks fountains, Fifth Third Field (aka Dragon’s stadium.)

What if everyone posted about what they LOVE about our city? What if those of us who frequent Dayton invited our friends to join us at our favorite spot downtown sometime? What if everyone stepped up and got involved and began serving our city? What if everyone gave a little bit of their time and their resources to better our community?

What if all parents actually got involved in our schools? What if everyone just quit complaining and actually did something to make Dayton a better place?

 

What if…

 

2“You, you may say I’m a dreamer,

but I’m not the only one.

I hope some day you’ll join us…

And the world will live as one.”

John Lennon

 

 

 

 

 

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Review – Epiphany Lutheran Church – Lively Storytelling

By Leave a Comment

The Epiphany Players Drama Ministry of Epiphany Lutheran Church ushers in Dayton’s 2013-14 theater season with a terrifically joyous, appealingly designed production of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s 1968 biblical musical “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” playfully adapted from the Book of Genesis.

Joseph

Desmond Thomas (center) as Joseph and the cast of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. (Contributed photo)

 

Director/choreographer Megan Wean sharply fashions one of the most consistently infectious versions of “Joseph” this town has seen. This breezy presentation, fueled by enjoyably energetic routines, produces feel-good vibes from the giddy opening that finds the adorable Children’s Chorus enticed by the Bible’s enchanting allure to the ensemble’s enthusiastic delivery of the pop-friendly “Joseph Megamix” finale. Due to the musical’s engaging storytelling foundation, Wean’s particularly inspired decision to stage the show in-the-round delightfully establishes a warm sense of unity and connection that serves the comical, touching and sung-through material very well. Scenic designer Bruce Brown also deserves credit for creating a spacious set that wonderfully heightens the action thanks to a platform which occasionally rises at center stage to great, spine-tingling effect.
Desmond Thomas, one of last season’s standouts as Seymour in Playhouse South’s production of “Little Shop of Horrors,” supplies pleasant sensitivity and warmth as the meek, misunderstood Joseph, who is beloved by his father Jacob (an admirable Brian Hoff) and sold into slavery by his 11 jealous brothers. Joseph is an oddly introverted character, but Thomas effectively conveys the determination, optimism and prophetic aptitude brewing within that briefly turns vindictive when he is reunited with his brothers. Musically, Thomas offers splendid renditions of “Any Dream Will Do” and the heartbreaking gem “Close Every Door.”

First-rate vocalists Kandis Wean and Erin Ulman expertly split the duties of Narrator. Nicely clothed in white and supporting Thomas with attentiveness and grace, Wean and Ulman have a mutual respect in the spotlight. The expressive Wean is at her lyric-driven best for “Journey to Egypt/Potiphar” and firmly begins Act 2 with an inviting “Pharaoh’s Story.” Ulman, radiant as ever, shines in “Joseph’s Coat” (featuring Timothy A. Guth’s striking lighting design) and the pep rally-tinged “Go, Go, Go Joseph.”
Brett Greenwood (Reuben), Ralph Bordner (Simeon), Chace Beard (Levi), Justin Mathews (Judah), Joshua Huges (Dan), Andrew Beers (Naphthali), Charlie Arthur (Gad), Jeffrey Mack (Asher), Bryan Burckle (Isaachar), Timothy Seiler (Zebulon), and Justin Crichfield (Benjamin) are a humorous and cohesive unit as the brothers. Greenwood adopts an amusing twang for the country-flavored “One More Angel in Heaven.” Arthur also scores as the bespectacled and quirky Potiphar. Hughes, with melodramatic flair, leads an absolutely superb, nearly showstopping rendition of “Those Canaan Days.” Burckle lets loose with gleeful abandon for “Benjamin Calypso.” The charismatic Brandon Crichfield suavely embodies the Elvis-esque Pharaoh throughout the rock and roll-driven “Song of the King.”
Maria Kleuber and Lori Watamaniuk’s colorful costumes, Jason Hamen and Adrienne Niess’ cute assortment of props, and musical director David E. Brush’s steady onstage band are additional pluses within this highly entertaining showcase.

“Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” continues through July 21 at Epiphany Lutheran Church, 6430 Far Hills Ave., Centerville. Performances are Thursday-Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2:30 p.m.
Act One: 35 minutes; Act Two: 45 minutes. Jeffrey Mack, memorably seen as Cain in Epiphany’s 2009 production of “Children of Eden,” will particularly portray Joseph at the Friday and Saturday performances. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for seniors and children. For tickets or more information, call (937) 433-1449 ext. 105 or visit www.epiphanydayton.org

 

 

 

 

Foremost Seafood: The Freshest Fish in Dayton

By 4 Comments

Owner Tom Patterson with a fresh fish order

Hey seafood lovers, Food Adventures with The Big Ragu & Crew is about to change your world.  There is a little known secret that has been in the Miami Valley for 30 years.  It is called Foremost Seafood, and it’s located at Woodman Center Drive in Kettering.   It is a seafood distributor, that has a retail store open to the public.  What’s the big deal?   Foremost gets daily shipments (not Sundays) of fresh caught seafood from Boston, Virgina, Florida and Alaskan suppliers.  This allows Daytonians access to an incredible variety of nautical fare and ensures the freshest seafood.  This is the type of access that is usually only found in mega cities.

It started with owner Tom Patterson, who in 1983 was typically listening to music like David Bowie in the basement of his parents home.  From that house he sold his first shipment,  fifty pounds of shrimp to the meat manager at Dorothy Lane Market, Helga.  He still provides seafood to Dorothy Lane Market to this day.  Over the years he has quietly built and empire and runs the buying for the business.  This is important because he is an expert.  Tom has a degree in marine biology from South Florida University.  He worked on shrimp farms in Ecuador in the late 1970’s.  During this time he also was setting trends in Galveston, TX by helping develop new shrimp farming technology.  His knowledge is Dayton’s gain, as this hometown boy is now a successful businessman, bringing quality eats to the Foremost faithful.  And they are faithful, most of his business is from customers that have been visiting the retail store for over a decade.  Today, deliveries from Boston and Virginia arrive by truck the next day, while seafood from Alaska and Florida are flown in specially to Dayton airport.

***HERE’S THE SKINNY:

Live Softshell Crabs are available in season, at Foremost Seafood

— Foremost Seafood is NOT a restaurant, it is a storefront to buy fresh seafood.  Think of it as a mini seafood market.

— Foremost provides seafood for most of the upscale, locally owned restaurants in Dayton.

— The fish they sell were caught on ‘day boats’ (only 1 or 2 days at sea).  Translation: these are the freshest fish available and were not sitting in a ship’s cooler for two weeks.  Only the highest quality is the rule at Foremost Seafood.

— The fresh fish is not displayed, it is kept whole and sliced only at the time of the order.  The reasoning is to keep air and light from deteriorating the meat of the fish. “Be loyal to the fish” is their mantra.  You order from a price list of fresh fish, they trim the fish and bring your order out for the ‘ok’ before they wrap it.

— Locally owed since 1983 by Tom Patterson and his wife Pam.  Another true mom and pop establishment.

Fresh Carolina Shrimp – Never frozen

— Experts handle the fish once it arrives in Dayton.  People like Chef Tony Coletta who worked at Garstkas and Chef Nate Young currently at the Oakwood Club

— Foremost offers over 300 varieties of fresh and frozen seafood specialties.

— Hours are a little tricky: Tuesdays – Fridays 9am -6pm, Saturday and Monday 9am-noon, Closed Sundays

 

***MUST EATS:

Fresh Carolina Shrimp:  Caught just a couple of days ago, these huge shrimp run about $14.99/lb and have never been frozen, which in Ohio is practically unheard of.   Taste the freshness without having to travel to North or South Carolina.  These shrimp are usually the 21-25 count per pound variety, and are absolutely incredible.

Scottish Salmon: Foremost usually offers 4 types of fresh Salmon, but The Big Ragu & Crew recommend the Scottish Salmon for some killer grilling this summer !!

Chef Tony Coletta & the Big Ragu holding a fresh, Wahoo fish that was recently caught in Hawaii

Cherrystone Clams:  Yes, they are alive.  You can shuck them and eat ’em raw, but our favorite is to steam them then dip them in butter.  Either way, be prepared for a fresh taste of the ocean!

Sushi Grade Tuna:  This tuna is super-high quality and can be sliced and eaten raw.  If sushi isn’t your style, consider coating the tuna with red pepper, sesame seeds or any spicy rub.  Then pan-sear it on all sides (even the edges).  We tried it both raw and cooked and loved it all.   Check out our photo album below where we cooked lots of Foremost items and holla’ at your foodie boys.

 

Fresh Tilapia:  You can still see the knife marks on the filets where it was carved.  Talk about fresh!  This mild fish is a favorite, even for the pickiest eaters.  Try it baked for 20 minutes at 350degrees.  Use your own spices, Don’t ask us, we aren’t chef’s we are just two guys that love to eat !  Check out their table of free recipe cards.

Soft-Shell Crabs: This delicacy is for serious eaters!  They are alive.  You can’t get any fresher than that.  The most popular way to cook these are breaded and pan seared.  They are also used in local sushi houses stuffed into ‘spider rolls.’  Softshell crabs are consumed entirely.  That’s right, eat the whole thing, shell and all.  Only for true Food Adventurers, and The Big Ragu, Chef House, and Hungry Jax  say they are delicious ! 

Crab Dip:  This slightly spicy dip is so addicting, you will have to lock the refrigerator.  Get some wheat thins or melba toasts and go to town on this stuff.  Made from a mixture of pseudo-crab sticks and cream cheese, it is perfect party snacking.  Food Adventures will not be held responsible for brawls over the last scoop.

What are you lookin at? Fresh Red Snapper

A couple of side notes:  With the demand for fresh seafood, (over half of it coming from Boston),  once in a while they run out of items.  It is the nature of fresh offerings.   But there are so many other choices like Blue crab from Virgina, Snow Crab legs, live oysters, the list goes on an on.  Fresh fish that we have been buying for years include Red Snapper, Grouper, Wahoo, Bronzini and Halibut.  Also, special orders such as live lobsters need to be pre-ordered.   They even offer do it yourself fish frys where pricing is based on pounds of fish purchased.

For years, The Big Ragu, Chef House and Hungry Jax have been hitting up this place for our party food needs, cookouts, or just a craving for some fish at home.  It is truly one of our favorites.  Foremost Seafood’s philosophy is simple, freshness and being loyal to the integrity of fish in regards to handling.  Owner Tom buys the best and sells the best.

Now you know about yet another Dayton gem.   Our city is lucky to have access to this fresh food.  Don’t forget to visit the free recipe table. Whether you want to eat healthy, or just love fish, get yourself into Foremost Seafood and see for yourself.  There is nothing fishy here.

Check out our stunning photo album below and “like” Food Adventures on Facebook HERE.  Come on, don’t be shellfish….

[flagallery gid=48]