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100,000 People Expected at Food Filled Americana Festival

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Look down the street, hungry people as far as the eye can see !

July 4th will mark the 40th annual Americana Festival in Centerville.  Wouldn’t you know that The Big Ragu & Crew are veterans of practically every single Americana Festival over the years.   We can’t think of a better way to celebrate America’s Independence that a brisk walk through the intersection of State Route 48 and Franklin Street, sampling food selections from various vendors.  With over 100 spots to eat, this is a perfect opportunity for a summer Food Adventure.   From typical festival fare like funnel cakes and to healthier choices like salads and grilled chops, there is something for every taste bud on hand.  The food tour stretches from the center of town, down through Benham’s Grove and the Activity Center Park.   French Fries, Deep Fried Snickers, Roasted Corn, Chinese food and Gyro Vendors are just some of our favorites on the yearly hit list.  We would be amiss if we didn’t mention the various icons that will be open along the street such as Bill’s Donut Shop, City BBQ and Graeter’s Ice Cream.  You can even enjoy a Marion’s Pizza near the classic car show in their parking lot.  Ohhh Americana, how we love thee!

Hey there, Pork Chop !

If you need the scoop on one of Dayton’s largest festivals, here you go:

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— July 4th events start at 7:30am with a 5k Run/Walk – Always a nice start to a guilt free Food Adventure

— Parade starts at 10am sharp near Centerville High School and typically lasts until 11:30am

— The Street Festival runs from 11am-4pm with over 300 vendors (many of them food booths)

— Festival ends with a Fireworks Display at Centerville High School Stadium at 10pm

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Now for the rumbling stomachs that sound like a fireworks grand finale, here are your Food Adventure MUST EATS !

MUST EATS:

— Nothing says independence like a mouthful of powdered sugar and fried dough, so get yourself a damn Funnel Cake

Nothing says Independence like Powdered Sugar and Fried Dough

— Grilled Pork Chops – Various vendors are serving up these chops that weigh as much as a small dumbell

— Roasted Corn – More than knee high by the 4th of July, don’t forget the brush and buttery dip option

— Gyro’s – The Greek vendors at this event never disappoint.  Grab a Gyro with the works, which sometimes includes some Caesar’s Salad lettuce on top

— Philly Cheesesteak – A little known secret of the festival is that some vendors fire up the grills as early as 9:30am.  We took advantage of this one year.  We also should have taken a tums.  Huge, mouth watering, stuffed sandwiches.  Just look for the banner “Italian Sausages & Philly Cheesesteaks”

— Deep Fried Snickers – Ok, so admit it, you have always wanted to try one.  If you like rich foods and gooey chocolate, give it a whirl.  It is like a small, powdered corndog with chocolate inside.  Everyone should try these just once.  Put it on your July4th bucket list.

— McDigger’s Pub – Go inside and grab a cold libation at the corner of Elm and East Franklin St.  They also grill burgers and sausages on the patio.  This is the only bar we know of where a round of drinks costs about the same as a local Moose Lodge.  Just aim your beer burps the other way, please.

Whether you grab a pretzel donut or a grilled chicken wrap with Uncle Sam on stilts, this shindig is as much a celebration of taste as a celebration of the stars and stripes.  So get yourself to the center of Centerville and see why this festival is one of the biggest in Dayton.  Are you a veteran of the event?  Then comment below and tell us your favorite bites from the Americana Festival!

Your hometown foodies Chef House, Hungry Jax and The Big Ragu wish each and every one of you a happy 4th of July.  Enjoy the local street food and more on this warm summer’s holiday.  This festival definitely shows off “America the Beautiful !”

Browse through our photos below, they will light your firecracker !  “Like” Food Adventures on Facebook HERE !

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City of Dayton Proposes Commercial Development of Garden Station, Organizers Plead To Save Community Garden

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The following letter was published late tonight on Garden Station facebook page:

 

Warm Greetings, Supporters and Volunteers of Garden Station,

It is with a heavy heart that I must let all our supporters know of plans of the City of Dayton to potentially destroy Garden Station in its current form to make way for future “development”.

Last year the City purchased the whole block south of us, the old HD building, and I was leery of their intent. I invited City officials on tours of Garden Station and inquired about future plans that might affect us. I was assured that they were looking at the block south of us for development and not the property we lease. In January I was informed of the posted RFQ “as a courtesy” by the Assistant City Manager Shelley Dickstein and asked for meetings with her and Nan Whaley. Their position was that we are on development property and in order to attract the best developers they had to include our property as an option, but developers may choose not to use it. They were supposed to let me know who submitted proposals after the January 31st deadline but I have not heard back.

Recently I have heard through the grapevine that a developer has been selected and plans are made. I do not know what those plans are but have heard from many community leaders including priority board members that once the city announces their plans it is often too late to act.

I am asking you, our supporters and creators to ACT by calling, emailing and mailing our officials to ask for:

1. Garden Station to remain on the site we currently occupy as an amenity to potential housing/retail developments on the block south of us as well as existing residents.

2. Furthermore that our property be preserved as green space under a land trust organization, with occupancy by Garden Station as long as the property is maintained at an acceptable level.

3. Include your reasons for keeping Garden Station and tell what your personal connections are to Garden Station

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A group of HS students from Ginghamsburg church planted 2 figs, 2 chestnuts, a persimmon, 1 apple, some yarrow, bee balm and fennel and 1 serviceberry.

I know there are over 1000 of you who personally have done physical labor to build Garden Station and over 100 community groups and businesses who have contributed to its creation! Garden Station uniquely represents the heart and soul of Dayton better than any other place in our city, through unique local artwork, music, community events and connecting our citizens to each other!  Like the Whos in the beloved Dr. Seuss book “Horton Hears a Who” we need to make our voices heard that WE ARE HERE! 

SOME BENEFITS OF OUR “DEVELOPMENT” AS GARDEN STATION TO THE COMMUNITY:

 

We are a unique attraction in downtown Dayton and have had visitors from all over the world stop to see us. We are on several travel sites including Roadside America and Trip Advisor. So many other “attractions” seem like cookie cutter copies that every city has. We have unique outsider art from all kinds of residents, examples of sustainable building techniques, demonstration gardens including a new food forest, a permaculture fixture that other cities brag about http://www.weather.com/home-garden/beacon-food-forest-20130620 , and we host all kinds of community groups from elementary students to UD and Sinclair student to the AARP.

 

We are providing education and demonstration of sustainable living practices in a time where more and more people are realizing the environmental frailty and nutrition-lacking aspects of our current food system. Our EarthFest was the largest Earth Day festival ever held in Dayton with over 30 free workshops for the public and over 30 local organizations participating. We are educating our neighbors to become more food secure and developing a more resilient local food system by training urban farmers in partnership with Omega CDC, Antioch College and Miami University. We are providing fresh, local organic food from our gardens to the public on Sundays when there is no other outlet for local food available in Montgomery County. We are providing fresh local organic food to seniors at Jaycee Towers and have the only rentable wheelchair accessible community garden plots in the area. Over 20 neighbors have community garden plots at Garden Station as well, including many urban dwellers without green space of their own.

 

We serve as an outdoor community center hosting all kinds of community organizations including meetings and non-profit fundraisers, art and music festivals, free music for First Friday featuring local bands, the Really Really Free Market, workshops, community potlucks, bonfires, rallies, weddings and more. Students from all over the Miami Valley from Elementary School to University have come for tours and volunteer days to learn gardening, art and green construction techniques.

 

We are an urban green space that serves all our area residents, created entirely by over 1000 community volunteers and donations, and over 100 community organizations and businesses.

  

Garden Station is created BY the community, FOR the community!

Please let our officials know you support keeping Garden Station as a community-created green space and the reasons you want to keep us!

Thanks for all your support! Garden Station exists because of support from our whole community!

Humbly,

Lisa Helm

Volunteer Garden Station Manager

www.facebook.com/gardenstation

www.daytongardenstation.org

[email protected]

937-610-3845

 

Please write, email AND call!

Mayor Gary Leitzell

City Hall, Second Floor

101 W. Third Street

Dayton, Ohio 45402

937-333-3636

Fax: 937-333-4297

[email protected]

City Commission Office

City Hall, Second Floor

101 W. Third Street

Dayton, Ohio 45402

937-333-3644

fax: 937-333-4297

[email protected]

Commissioner Matt Joseph – [email protected]

Commissioner Dean Lovelace  – [email protected]

Commissioner Nan Whaley – [email protected]

Commissioner Joey D. Williams  – [email protected]

City Manager – Timothy Riordan   937-333-3600 [email protected] City Manager Shelley Dickstein  – [email protected],    [email protected] (937) 333-3600

Planning & Community Development Director – Aaron Sorrell – 937.333.4209 333-3670  [email protected]  [email protected]

 

A Quick Guide to Bike Commuting

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imagesThe first day of Summer came with the first air advisory. The Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission asked people to reduce pollution by using transit, sharing rides, and riding bikes. Searching the internet about bike commuting provides an abundance of information. Some of it is really helpful, but some make bike commuting out to be a very complicated and dangerous thing. From personal experience, I can say it does not take special equipment to get started, and as far as safety is concerned, while I have had some “close calls,” mostly at street crossings, keeping my eyes open and not expecting car drivers to watch out for me has always kept me safe. So how does one go about riding a bike to work? What kind of bike works? What clothes are suitable? What is the best route? What else should be considered? Here is how I get around.

Obviously, the first thing is the bike. Any bicycle, that is safe, will do. If the bike has been standing for a while it should be checked by a professional. There are a couple of things, I like, that make life easier. I want to have fenders on my bike. A fair weather rider might not need them, but I prefer to tumblr_lvvh6eEp0C1qdcsdoo1_500commute without concerns of getting the infamous “skunk stripe” down my back if I hit an unexpected shower or can not avoid a puddle. Most bikes have fender mounts, for the ones without, there are fenders with zip-tie-like mounts available; your local bike shop is your friend. A chain guard can also come in handy, especially if the rider does not want to roll their pant leg up. A greasy gear imprint on suit pants or just the leg is never fun (I have a bleach pen in my desk, in case I manage to get one anyway). The third must-have for me are a rack and bike bags. I do not like back packs or messenger bags, I sweat under the straps and I prefer to arrive at work as sweat-free as possible. That is a concern very specific to me, though; many riders use regular bags and are perfectly happy with them. Lastly, no matter how old the bike, if it is not locked properly it might get stolen. A good lock is important. The City of Dayton also offers bicycle registration.

A lot of people seem concerned with wearing special clothes to ride to work. Maybe they worry about showing up to work sweaty and possibly stinky, or they assume that Lycra is needed to ride a bike, I do not know. I ride in my work clothes. I read in a comment on Corporette once, “Stop thinking of your commute as exercise.” I could not have worded it better. The ride to work does not have to be a crazy work out. I pace myself; if I get too warm I just take it easy and cool off with the wind before I arrive in the office. Of course, being a woman gives me the opportunity to wear plenty of skirts and dresses, that helps, but pants in natural fibers, which breathe, work just as well. A pair of spinning shorts under a skirt is a good idea if modesty is a concern. If I work up a sweat despite all my efforts I have some Paper Shower packs in my desk, consisting of a big wet wipe and a paper towel. They are pricey, and baby wipes and regular paper towels work probably just as well. I prefer Paper Shower because they are single serve packs; they do not dry out if I have no use for them for a while. The only thing that does not work for me are pencil skirts. They are simply too tight. Luckily, Sew Dayton is working on a class on how to convert a pencil skirt so it can be expanded for the ride and then zipped back up to its original form in the office. Other than that, on a warm day a blazer should probably go into the bag or stay in the office, and a rain coat, that packs small, can be a useful investment.

Google-Bikethere-circleRoute planning might be the biggest concern for new riders. Google Maps has a bicycle option above the address fields, that is a good place to start. The directions are in beta, so pre-riding the route on a non-work day might help, insuring the directions do not lead through something like a turnstile, which has happened to me. This also helps with getting an idea on how long the ride might take. If street riding does not feel safe, sticking to the bike paths as long as possible and then using side streets is a good option. Courteous Mass Dayton holds rides every First Friday, great for anyone who wants to try out riding in the streets with experienced riders. Another option is Pedal Pals from the Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission. Pedal Pals was designed to match up bike commuters with the same routes. If distance is a concern, a last mile solution could work. It means that commuters drive their cars closer to the work place, then park along bike path and ride the bike for the rest of the way. Five River Metro Parks has a list of good access points. The City of Dayton is planning on approaching businesses along the bike paths to provide a couple of parking spaces for interested cyclists, but this system is not in place, yet.

What else is there to say? If there is no place to lock up the bicycle during work, asking the building manager or HR if it is alright to bring it in does not hurt. It worked for me (friendly persistence is key). Bike commuters, who work downtown, might want to check out the Bike Hub.

Down the road it could be beneficial to take a simple maintenance class. It helps to know how to change a tire, how to adjust brakes, and how to keep a chain clean. Bicycles for All offers different classes, so does Five River Metro Parks. The Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission published brochures on basic cycling knowledge. And, like I said above, the Internet is full of information.

So, that is what I think about bike commuting, my suggestions might not be suitable for everybody, but it is a way to get started. I hope I could help some people out. If there are unanswered questions about bike commuting, Courteous Mass Dayton is hosting a Commuter Q and A at the Trolley Stop, Thursday, June 27th 2013, from 6-8pm. It is a great chance to meet with other commuters and the Courteous Mass Dayton people, get some help planning a route, and exchange knowledge.

July 5 Event to Feature Dance Lessons, Classic Movies, Contests, and Live Music

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image002Downtown’s next free First Friday event will be held from 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, July 5. To celebrate the holiday weekend, many restaurant and stores are offering a variety of activities and entertainment for downtown visitors to enjoy. Events include art exhibits, live music, dinner and drink specials, retail sales, and special events will be featured at a variety of downtown venues.

Some of the highlights for the July 5 First Friday are listed below. A complete list of what downtown businesses have on tap for First Friday is available on the DDP website.

MVMFA_logo circletagFood Truck Rally – 200 S. Jefferson St. (near the Dayton Convention Center): Synergy Incubators hosts the July First Friday Food Truck Rally, featuring Zombie Dogz, Go Cupcake, Ringo’s North Star Mobile Eatery Caribbacanas,Fressa Truck, G’s CUE BBQ Horseless Buggy Eatery, Tik’s Thai Mobile, @The Monchon, Kona Ice and Missouri Avenue BBQ from 5:00pm – 9:00pm

American Pi (37 S. St. Clair St.) is celebrating a new collaboration with “Life in Letters,” a local handcraft décor store. Visitors can create unique and personal pieces using photos taken in the Dayton area that resemble letters. For First Friday, the owners of “Life in Letters” will be at the store to meet with anyone who comes by. The store is open until 8:30 p.m. Call 937–938-7890.

Cincinnati artist Gregory Sitg will be showing light paintings at Clash Consignment (521 E. Fifth St.). Call 937-241-9434.

The Collaboratory (33 N. Main St.) will feature an exhibition by artist and designer Misty Thomas-Trout that is a visual representation of her personal journey into self-awareness. Enjoy drinks and food with while getting to know the artist. The Collaboratory will be open until 8 p.m. Call 937-732-5123.

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. The July ride will include a tour of the McPherson, Grafton Hill, Five Oaks and Santa Clara District neighborhoods.

As part of the First Friday Salsa Music Series, Latin band Cla’ve Son will play live music from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at RiverScape MetroPark (111 E. Monument Ave.) on the MetroPark Pavilion Stage. Visitors can learn some salsa steps while listening to great music. Call 937-274-0126.

sewdayton_logoSew Dayton (16 Brown St.) will offer treats from the PNC 2nd Street Market and showcase work by fiber artist Pat Weaves. Those who stop by are encouraged to partake in a DIY “Make It Work” contest. Participants will be given three pieces of textiles and given the challenge to create something new from them. The contest will run through the end of July. Call 937-234-7398.

Kicking off the Cool Film Series at Victoria Theatre (138 N Main St.) is the classic comedy “The Apartment” starring Jack Lemmon and Shirley MacLaine and directed by Billy Wilder. Free popcorn and soda are offered in the lobby and an old-fashioned sing-a-long begins 30 minutes before show time. Tickets are $5. Call 228-3630.

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.

Outdoor Dinner Theater in Dayton

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zoot2Zoot Theatre Company is taking advantage of their new preforming home by introducing a summer outdoor series at The Dayton Art Institute! This casual, dinner theater concept makes use of the recently renovated Hale Cloister and guests can order tickets a boxed lunch or dinner and  a bottle of wine from Leo Bistro.

A Box, Bottle, and Play will consist of three outdoor productions: A Midsummer Night’s Dream; Dr. Faustus; and The Tempest. All three plays are written and adapted by noted local artist Brian McKnight.  The Series opened June 19th  with one of Shakespeare’s best known plays, A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Famous for its comedy, Midsummer is the story of a pair of young lovers who plan to cast all aside and elope, but are interrupted when they are followed into the woods and become mixed up in a love triangle..er..quartet. The night goes comically awry when the four are caught in a quarrel between the fairy queen and king. A Midsummer Night’s Dream will  run through Sunday, June 30.

The second show in the Series, Dr. Faustus is by Christopher Marlowe and is about a notable mind within academia, Doctor Faustus. As he pursues his studies so zoot1rigorously he becomes bored with the limits of theory, feeling that he has attained all the wisdom that is possible in the earthly realm. He continues his pursuit of power and knowledge elsewhere, ultimately making a pact with the devil. Dr. Faustus will open on Wednesday, July 10 and run through Sunday, July 21.

The Series will end with another Shakespearean classic, The Tempest. The show follows Prospero after he has been deposed from his dukedom by his own brother and cast to sea. After being deposed, he and his daughter Miranda live stranded for years on an island filled with spirits. When Prospero discovers that a ship carrying his brother and the King of Naples is near, he uses his skills as a powerful magician to crash their boat onto the island’s shores and orchestrates a plan to regain his rightful position. The Tempest will open on Wednesday, July 31 and will close on Sunday, August 11.

Audience members may choose from Leo Bistro’s two meal options; a smoked turkey, provolone, and sundried pesto Panini; or a roasted Portobello and brie Panini with apple arugula salad. All meals include kettle chips or a side salad and a chocolate chip cookie. Meals also include lemonade, iced tea, or water.
Show Times:

Wed, Sat & Sun 1pm,

Thurs & Fri 7pm

Tickets run $20 per show, subscriptions are available for all three shows for $51.00 per person. In addition, audience members are able to purchase a delicious boxed meal for an additional $10.00 per person and a bottle of wine for $15.00 per bottle. Subscriptions and single tickets are now on sale.   A limited number of $10 “Tweet Seats” are available for Saturday & Sunday performances. For more information, call 937.223.4ART or visit www.zoottheatrecompany.org.

The Zzoot-logo-coloroot Theatre Company was founded in 2006 as a professional puppet and mask company. Based in Dayton, OH, Zoot is the resident theatre company in the NCR Renaissance Auditorium at the Dayton Art Institute where it produces both its Summer Series and MainStage Season, consisting of professional puppet and mask shows. In addition, Zoot offers puppetry and mask workshops for children and adults typically at schools and community centers. Proud to be a Dayton Original, Zoot also maintains studio and rehearsalspace in downtown Dayton and partners with many local schools, colleges, and arts organizations. In the past, Zoot has worked with Alter High School, Oakwood High School, Central State University, The Muse Machine, The Dayton Youth Philharmonic Orchestra, and designed and built original puppets for The Human Race Theatre Company’s production of Avenue Q in the Spring of 2013.

Summer Sipping

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Summer cocktail

Summer is here…and look what it brought with it!

The unofficial beginning of summer has become Memorial Day weekend. It is a long weekend, the weather has turned warm for the season, and pool and festival season kicks off during the extended break from work. The official first day of the season is June 21, during the summer solstice and the longest day of the year. When summer hits, everything changes. Fresh fruit is much more available, and you can get VERY fresh fruit at local farmers markets and Second Street Market downtown. This is also a perfect excuse to change up what you are drinking.

The craft beer distilleries have been summer beers for a month or two now, adding berries, peaches, melons, and citrusy flavors to provide some light flavors more in tune with the season. People are turning to lighter cocktails, looking to all flavors of mojitos, margaritas, or any other light drink. And of course, you need to hit the patio wherever you are at. The season to relax on a patio with friends does not last forever, so  get while the getting is good. But what to drink while you are out there? That is the real question. Here are some answers.

BEER

Shandies

Beer of your choice, typically a lager
Lemonade or lemon lime soda

Fill half a pint or other tall glass half way with your beer of choice. Fill the rest of it with the lemonade or lemon lime soda. Enjoy!

Shandies have been around for about a century, starting in Europe and spreading across the pond. Different places around the world use different regional mixers, but the general idea is the same. It is a drink with a little bit of an alcoholic punch, but mild enough to sip it all day long. Any beer can be used, but a good witbier can make a really tasty pairing.

Shandy beer cocktailCOCKTAILS

Lynchburg Lemonade

1.5 oz. Jack Daniels (it can be any whiskey, but seriously…)
.5 oz. peach liqueur
1 oz. lemon juice (about lemon)
.5 oz. simple syrup
Club Soda

Pour the whiskey, peach liqueur, lemon juice, and simple syrup into a cocktail shaker. Shake well (10-15 shakes), and pour into a glass filled with ice. Top off with about an ounce of club soda.

The Lynchburg Lemonade has fallen on hard times. It has a bad reputation of being overly sweet, fizzy, and generally frowned on in this world of craft cocktails and more available ingredients. Jeff Lucas, a contributor to Serious Eats, worked out this upgraded version. It allows the whiskey to come forward, with the rest of the flavors there for support. This is one you can make in the comfort of your own house.

Paloma

1.5 oz. tequila (I have been enjoying Avion lately)
4.5 oz. grapefruit soda
A splash of lime juice

Fill a tall glass with ice. Pour the tequila in first, then the grapefruit soda and lime juice. Stir and enjoy!

While we like to drink margaritas to celebrate Mexican culture, Mexicans like to drink this very refreshing tequila cocktail. It is simple to make and perfect for a hot day out with friends.

Floridita (Or Hemingway Daiquiri)

2 oz. rum
.5 oz. lime juice
.25 oz. simple syrup
.25 oz. maraschino liqueur
.5 oz. grapefruit juice

Pour all of the ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake until cold, and pour into a cocktail glass. Enjoy!

Hemingway needed to take a bathroom break.  A charming little bar in Havana, the El Floridita, was on his way, so he pulled in there to use their facilities. He saw the bartender mixing up a batch of daiquiris. The bartender noticed the famous writer and offered him a glass. Hemingway liked it, but he wanted his a little stronger, and without the sugar. A little maraschino liqueur and a lot of rum later, this delicious summer cocktail was born.

Mixed berriesStrawberry Sorbet

.75 oz. vodka
.75 oz. strawberry schnapps
4 oz. milk

Pour the ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake until cold, and pour in a tall glass filled with ice.

What is summer fun without a little ice cream? This is a richer drink you may want to consider as a dessert or a sweet treat. You can switch out any flavored schnapps you would like to make the ice cream your preferred flavor. You can even reduce the amount of milk to 2 oz., add 4 oz. of ice cream, and turn it into an actual shake. Add two or three fresh strawberries while you are at it!

WINE

White Wine Berry Sangria

1 750 ml bottle of white wine that matches your taste
.75 cup white rum
.5 cup sugar, less if you choose
.5 cup blueberries
.5 cup blackberries
.5 cup raspberries
.5 liter of ginger ale

Pour the wine, rum, sugar, and all of the fruit into a large pitcher and mix well. Put into the refrigerator for two hours, or until you are ready to serve. Just before you serve it, add the ginger ale to the mix.

Summer is a great time for berries. It is also a great time for white wine. It seems only natural to mix the two together for a light wine cocktail. You can up the tartness of the sangria by getting rid of the rum and switching it to .5 cup of limoncello (Italian lemon liqueur).

This is the season where families spend more time together and people go out and relax more. It is time to add some fresh flavors to the typical drinks you are enjoying. Where is your favorite patio to hang out on in Dayton during the summer? We would love to hear about it in the comments! There is a little extra daylight to burn today. Get out there and start enjoying it.

Al’s Smokehouse: Ribs at 4am? YES !!! **$20 Gift Certificate Contest**

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Ribs that make you say “DAMN!”

You’re tipsy.  You are out late with your friends at the Oregon District or downtown, and you need  some food.  Well, Al’s Smokehouse and Cafe is the word on East Third.   Open until 5am on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, it is the perfect spot to satisfy your late night hunger pains.   This little known Dayton secret serves up tasty, soulful selections from Ribs to Burgers at incredibly cheap prices.   Located  at 140 E. Third St, Al’s Smokehouse is also a great place to catch a quick lunch.  A Food Adventure is in order here ANY time.

Owner Al Shamburg learned cooking from his father who was from Treasure Island, Jamaica.   Al honed his culinary and catering skills over the past 20 years, building quite a reputation in Dayton and Springfield for incredible tasting food.  Through the years, this self-made-man worked hard to buy his equipment and finally open his own restaurant.  He has hired a great staff like his sister Stephanie, and head cook Tyrone, who worked in Dominic’s kitchen for 17 years.  The result is a delicious, affordable menu, with consistent quality.

 

HERE’s THE SKINNY:

Owner Al Shamburg & Head Cook, Tyrone

— Al’s Smokehouse Menu features fantastic BBQ, and delicious soul food like bourbon chicken and collared greens

— Open LATE on weekends til 5am for all you fellow Food Adventurers

— Breakfast served ALL DAY

— Prices so cheap, you won’t believe your eyes

— Friendly servers, veteran cooking staff and a no frills, casual atmosphere

MUST EATS:

— Banana Pudding: We are going to start with a homemade dessert that knocked our socks off.   Deliciously sinful, this is the real deal.  No canned stuff here!  Don’t expect us to share !

— The Smoked Pork Chop – Smoked and drizzled with secret marinades, it is almost like a steak.   The Big Ragu says this is the best pork chop he has ever tasted.

— The Ribs:  They are smoked for 8 hours, they are brushed with a signature bbq sauce.  Meaty and moist, they pack a wallop of flavor and the namesake of this restaurant.  Only problem is, they are so good that sometimes, they sell out!

“The Shamburger” – hand made, fresh patty

— “The Shamburger”: Hand packed and never frozen, the juicy burgers are good deal at 4 bucks.  Want to go full out?  Get the “Cry Baby” which is the Shamburger with a fried egg and cheese.

— Baked Mac n Cheese: Homemade and so good you will flip. Somebody in the kitchen knows what they are doing at Al’s Smokehouse!

— The Wings: Big and juicy, but the secret is in the tangy sauce.  Get the BBQ wings and be ready to lick your fingers.  You can try the other sauces later, like Jamaica Jerk or OMG Hot wings.  On Monday night the 50 cent wing deal is a steal !

— The Shrimp Cheesesteak: A seafood version of the famous sandwich.  Resembling a Shrimp Po’ boy, it is one heck of a sub.  Delicious!

Honorable Mention:  The Pulled Pork Sandwich is a solid choice.  Also,  we like the homemade Greens for an authentic soul food side.  Want to know a secret?  Al’s has a killer Pork Tenderloin Sandwich, and it isn’t even on the menu.  Ask for it by special request.

Food Adventures has found yet another unique spot for good food at reasonable prices .   We are serious eaters. We don’t do a “drive-by” one time visit to a restaurant and then write our articles.  Instead, we visit a place multiple times before it is worthy of a  Food Adventures share on Dayton Most Metro.   Al’s Smokehouse in no exception.  We have eaten almost everything on their menu.   From the Fish and Grits to the Pancakes and Home Fries.  The popular Bourbon Chicken has a honey and spice flavor with hint of Jerk seasoning.  You get a slight touch of Al’s Jamaican roots with this dish.   Al explained to us that his Bourbon Chicken is made with ‘small hen meat.’  He feels they taste superior to regular chickens.

Who else in Dayton makes Fish and Grits???

The story of this restaurant is simply a hard working family, who is putting their heart into this locally owned eatery.  So what are you waiting for?  If you are anywhere near downtown, or want a casual trip to the city for some grub, check out Al’s Smokehouse.  It isn’t fancy, just some tables and chairs.   But the FOOD.. aw the FOOD.. is some great decor, for the stomach!

Want to see more of Food Adventures?  “Like” them HERE on Facebook !

 

Who wants a $20 Gift Certificate to Al’s Smokehouse?  One lucky fan who comments below will be chosen at random.  Please tell us your comments about Al’s Smokehouse, below!  Let us know why you love Al’s, why you would like to try Al’s, or why you want that gift certificate ???  GOOD LUCK !!

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Dayton Habitat for Humanity ReStore Celebrates Grand Opening in New Facility

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restoreDayton Ohio Habitat for Humanity kicked-off the grand opening celebration of the new location for its ReStore retail outlet at 115 West Riverview Ave. in Dayton to better serve local families.  The ReStore is a discount store that sells building materials, home improvement products, appliances, furniture and home decor to the general public. Find unusual, discontinued, new and gently used products at a great discount. Whether you are looking for that special bathroom sink, kitchen cabinets, doors, windows, paint, lighting fixtures or anything else for your home or rental property… shopping at the ReStore is a must. New inventory arrives daily.   Customers save at least 66% off normal retail prices and many products are recycled, keeping them out of the local landfills. ReStore is open Mon – Fri 9am – 5pm and Sat 9am – 3pm.

“We are so excited to open a bigger store with more inventory in our new space,” said Dayton Habitat for Humanity Executive Director Diane Graham. “We have always had a great selection of products and a solid customer base, but now our store is much more consumer-friendly and we have more items and can now accept additional donations.  If you haven’t seen our new facility, you are in for a treat!”
Founded in 1983, Dayton Ohio Habitat for Humanity is a non-profit, volunteer-driven Christian ecumenical housing ministry dedicated to providing decent, affordable housing to families in need throughout Montgomery County.
Habitat for Humanity serves as a hand up, not a hand out, for qualified low income families. Families apply to earn a home of their own. Once accepted into the program, our “Partner Families” work alongside our many volunteers to build their house. They put in 275 to 550 hours of “sweat equity” and take approximately 40 hours of classes to prepare for responsible homeownership before earning their home. Partner families make a down payment toward the purchase of their home, which is then sold to them through an affordable, interest-free mortgage held by Dayton Habitat for Humanity. Mortgage payments are put into a revolving fund to build future homes.  For more information, visit www.daytonhabitat.org.

 

Fifth Street Brewpub’s Birthday Bash on June 22 to Celebrate One Year as a Co-Op

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196816_215924091869193_814905752_nFifth Street Brewpub (FSB), the first co-operatively owned brewpub in Ohio and the second to open in the nation, announced today that they will be celebrating their first birthday on Saturday, June 22 from noon to 12PM. The event will be open to both member-owners and the general public.

 

Fifth Street Brewpub’s birthday bash will include a variety of craft beers on tap, a raffle fundraiser, live music by local musicians, food provided by Dayton’s own food trucks, cupcakes made with beer and so much more.

 

Money raised via the raffle will go toward the purchase of the brewpub’s custom seven-barrel brewing system. “Tickets will be sold for $1 each or 6 for $5” said Membership Director Maureen Barry. “We are also asking attendees to bring in a new baby item if possible that will be donated to Catholic Social Service’s Teen-Parent Link Program. The first 100 people to donate a new item will receive a baby cupcake provided by High Spirits Cupcakes, a local business owned by our members-owners Roxanne and Mark Gabbard.” Attendees can bring in any of the following items: baby wipes, baby shampoo, baby lotion, and diapers (size 4 or larger).

 

FSB’s birthday bash will be a great celebration where anyone can eat, drink, socialize, catch a game on any of the HD TVs and listen to live music provided by local artists Ally Lewber and Dustin Vincent. FSB-branded apparel will also be available for purchase. The Brewpub will be open to the public and members Thursday, Friday, and Sunday as well, but the big party is Saturday… our birthday!  For a detailed schedule of events, visit Fifth Street Brewpub’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/FifthStreetBrewpub. “This may be the last chance for non-members to join the brewpub at the one-time fee of $100 and own a share of the co-op before the price goes up to $125 and still take advantage of the membership gift set: one Fifth Street Brewpub-branded pint glass and four coasters” Barry stated. For more details visit www.brewpubgifts.com.

 

The grand opening of the brewpub is set for July 13th, but may be open a couple weeks prior to that for training and fine tuning. Co-founder and president Brian Young stated, “We are very excited to open in July and hopefully be brewing our own beer by late July.  It’s been a long time coming!  In the end, Fifth Street Brewpub is a community built by community.  Our motto is ‘building a community… one beer at a time.’  It’s an exciting time in Dayton!”

Ohio Hip Hop Awards Summer Showcase Tour Stops in Beavercreek

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Eight years ago, the founders of the Ohio Hip Hop Awards & Music Conference came together with a mission to recognize those making a contribution in the Ohio urban music industry.  This ground breaking event has since grown to span a three day weekend every September,  bringing together thousands of industry professionals, artists and fans for networking socials, talent showcases, expert panels and industry parties.  The finale of the weekend is the red carpet awards show that recognizes Ohio’s best of rappers, singers, DJ’s, models, dancers, media outlets and numerous other contributors to a growing Ohio music scene.

 

jasonThe Ohio Hip Hop Awards board takes special pride in their several month process in which they directly interact with urban music scenes across the state to accurately represent the who’s who of each  market and give credit where it is due. This is done through the website www.ohiohiphopawards.com  where fans can nominate and vote in many different categories, such as best live venue, best college radio show, best club DJ, best album, best video and many, many more. In addition, every June the board members travel to eight different cities with the Ohio Hip Hop Awards Summer Showcase Tour, allowing local artists to compete in live performance showcases.

This year, the Dayton stop of the Ohio Hip Hop Awards Summer Showcase Tour will take place Saturday, June 15 at the live music venue One Eyed Jacks. Local artists are given the chance to compete for several valuable prizes that benefit their music career and exposure. The winner of the showcase will be given the chance to perform at either the Ohio Hip Hop Awards Show or Pre-party, an automatic nomination in the best live performance category, and inclusion in the Ohio Hip Hop Awards promotional material. The winner in the best live performance category will also headline the entire 2014 Ohio Hip Hop Awards Summer Showcase Tour.

The Dayton stop of the Summer Showcase Tour is hosted by local entertainment resource company Razdabar Sound & OHHAST12-1Management in conjunction with the Ohio Hip Hop Awards. Dayton’s very own nationally known DJ SKNO of the Core DJ’s will spin for the event, keeping the party live at all times. Urban music enthusiasts and supporters are warmly invited to come out and see the best that the Dayton music scene has to offer this Saturday. One Eyed Jacks is located at 2638 Colonel Glenn Highway in Fairborn, across from Wright State University. Doors open at 8pm, live performances to begin at 9pm. Admission is $10 at the door.

 

New Centerville Brewery, Lock 27 Set to Open June 21st + *****Gift Certificate Contest *****

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Owners Steve & Michelle Barnhart with Lock 27 Chef Aimee Saling

Here is something you will not see anywhere else, at least not this early.   A super exclusive, sneak peek at the brewery coming to Centerville called Lock 27.   The Big Ragu & Crew are not “Grand Opening ” hoppers.   In this case we are making an exception, because the person opening Lock 27 is a friend of ours.   Owner Steve Barnhart and his wife, Michelle are currently putting the finishing touches on the new brew pub located at 1035 S. Main Street in Centerville, not far from the new Kroger.  With plenty of buzz circulating around Dayton through word of mouth, and online, this brewery promises to be a popular spot for some good craft beer.  With the addition of Chef Aimee Saling, the food offerings will be a highlight as well.

Shrimp and Polenta: a Must Eat !

For the past 15 years, Steve Barnhart has literally been brewing beer as a ‘driveway hobby.’  His craft and interest grew into offering what now will be Centerville’s only “Gastro Tap Room.”    Fashioned after the pubs in London, this true mom and pop establishment will feature a rotating choice of in-house brews, hard to find bottled beers, and some popular craft brews on tap from other breweries.  It will be a relaxed atmosphere slanted towards adults, with good background music.  The front patio will eventually feature a communal table where patrons are able to enjoy drinks and bites outside.

Why the name Lock 27?  It is a tribute to Dayton.  Essentially at the turn of the century, Dayton was a river town, with traffic from the Erie Canal running right through the Miami Valley.   Lock 27 was an actual stop on the river near Miamisburg.  The rich history and river life of Dayton is mostly forgotten today.  Instead, inventions of flight are most often associated with the Gem City.

History lesson over, now back to the Food Adventure and what you need to know about Lock 27.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

The Bar area inside Lock 27

— London Style Gastro Tap Room that will feature 5 in-house brews, 5 out-of-house beers on tap, unique bottled beer and wine selections.   Bottled and tap selections will focus on an eclectic mix of regional and national brewers.

— The menu will consists of 15-20 items including tapas and paninis.  Lock 27 will feature many “sharable” plates for a communal feel of a European Pub.

— Craft Beers, made in-house will rotate seasonally.  They will be brewed 1 or 2 barrels at a time.  With small batches, there are no commitments and this will allow for a constantly changing, and evolving brewery.  IMPORTANT !! – Since the inspections and liquor licenses have just been approved, in-house beers are being brewed now, and will not be served until approximately 3 weeks after opening.

— Hours will be 4pm-Midnight on weekdays, and 11am-Midnight on weekends

 

MUST EATS:

House Wheat Beer – In this case a must drink.  This wheat beer is a white ale instead of  a traditional hefeweizen.  This brew is made with California common yeast, for a different flavor.  Refreshing never tasted so good.

The Salumi Plate – A unique, appetizer featuring exotic cold cut meats of Prosciutto, Coppa, Gin & Juice Pepperoni, and Dodge City Fireball salami.  This plate is perfect for sharing.   It is also served with glazed walnuts, almonds and miniature gherkin pickles.  The slightly salty and spicy tastes of the meats match perfectly with any alcoholic beverage.

Cuban Sandwich –  This delicious panini style creation features ham and pulled pork .  It also has Emmenthaler cheese, which is a superior Swiss cheese from Switzerland and France.  What makes the sandwich is the crunchy bread and the spicy garlic, aoili mustard.   It is served with a side of chips tossed in spices.

The Salumi Plate: Unique cold cuts, enough to share

Shrimp and Polenta: This dish is big on taste.  The spicy shrimp with serrano pepper and beschamel sauce, contrasts perfectly with the creamy polenta.  We could have eaten this stuff all day.  Chef Aimee has captured simplicity and bold flavors with this offering.

Honorable mentions include bottled beers that are off the beaten path like Fullers ESB and La Fin Du Monde.

IN-HOUSE BEERS

On the beer front, Lock 27 plans to be broad in coverage, as opposed to genre specific.  It is their intention to celebrate all beer styles, not just be known for specific subgroups like “IPA” or “Belgian”.     Lock 27 will brew to a seasonal rotation,  so the first beers will be geared for summer.  What beers will be the first offerings?  Expect to see a “Summer Stout.”  They have worked hard on this recipe, so that it is appropriate for warmer weather.  It’s not heavy, rather a lighter body thirst quencher, that still maintains stout characteristics.  It is a cross between traditional English & Irish stouts, and not a big Russian Imperial.

Wheat Beer and its Creator

Also , they will be brewing 3 other beers.  A house British ESB (Extra Special Bitter), a Saison, and a Pacific North West inspired Session IPA should all be available in the next 3-4 weeks.  They even have a nickname for their brew kettle.  It is called Scarlett Brewhansson, please give her a visit.

So get your taste buds prepared and get ready to quench your thirst, because Lock 27 promises to be a hot spot this summer.    The addition of this restaurant just may make South Dayton the new Craft Beer headquarters of the Miami Valley.

Thank you to the management of Lock 27 for giving Food Adventures  access to this EXCLUSIVE scoop.   Make sure you tell the management,  The Big Ragu” sent you !”  Good drink and good food is what you can expect from Centerville’s newest restaurant.   Unique styles as opposed to the standard fare.  The spread of craft and high quality imports on tap alone will be an attraction, not to mention the brewery itself.  Will it be successful?  We think it’s a lock !

***CONTEST***  Please register below and comment on the story below and tell us why you want a $20 Gift Certificate to Lock 27.  One winner will be chosen at random on Monday !![form 55 “DMM Contest Entry – Generic”]

Want more brew and chew than you can handle?  Visit Food Adventures on Facebook and “like” us HERE !

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Friends of the Dayton Arcade Claim There’s A New Deal and Restoration Will Start Soon

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Arco12

The following email was sent out yesterday, and promises more news will be revealed soon….

Dear Patient Friend of the Dayton Arcade,

It is with the greatest joy and excitement that we share with you the news from Dayton Arcade LLC-Gunther Berg which we received this morning.  This is truly an historic day for Dayton!

An agreement between Gunther and the newly formed Dayton Arcade Development Group (DADG) has been reached which will allow the Arcade plan to move forward.  The partners and members will be named in the next few days.

An additional agreement concerning the unpaid property taxes on the Arcade Complex has been reached between the Dayton Arcade LLC and Montgomery County.

A timeline for work on the Arcade complex has been developed and it is anticipated that the long awaited restoration will begin soon.

Because of your interest in the future of the Arcade, your past support and great patience, Gunther wanted you to be among the first to hear this important news!

We anticipate more activity for Friends and will keep you as aware as possible as the project develops.

With great appreciation for your loyalty,

Sincerely,

Joanne Granzow, Maribeth Graham, Susan Gruenberg and Leon Bey, Founder and President

 

Apply Now for Activated Spaces’ Pop-Up Fall Project

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Pop-up DotsFor those who have dreamed of opening their own business, now is the time to give it a try and the place to try it is downtown Dayton.

Activated Spaces, an initiative to fill downtown storefronts, is accepting applications for temporary retail and service businesses to open downtown this fall as part of the fifth phase of its Pop-up Project. The project matches business owners and entrepreneurs with downtown property owners who have first-floor storefront space available for occupancy.

Interested retailers should fill out an application, which can be downloaded at www.activatedspaces.org, and email it to Jen Cadieux at [email protected]. The application deadline is 5 p.m. Friday, July 19. Tenants will be selected the week of July 29, and retailers must be ready to open no later than Friday, Sept. 20, in time for the fall Urban Nights.  

Lease lengths will range from three to six months. The spaces will have varying lease rates, but will be leased below market value. Activated Spaces volunteers will connect retailers with commercial property owners, help make the space move-in ready, and promote the business during such events as First Friday and Urban Nights. Selected businesses will negotiate leasing terms directly with the selected property owner, but flexibility for the tenant is a priority.

Activated Spaces volunteers hope to build on the success of the Pop-Up Project’s first four phases. Six of the businesses that have opened as part of the Pop-Up Project are still open: Beaute Box, 116 W. Fifth St.; Peace on Fifth, 508 E. Fifth St.; American Pi, 37 S. St. Clair St.; Vintage Barbershop, 110 W. Fifth St.; Sew Dayton, 16 Brown St.; Green Baby, 31 S. St. Clair St.; and All Pilates, 27 S. St. Clair St.

Commercial property owners interested in offering space to Pop-Up Shop owners should contact Jen Cadieux at 937-224-1518. Participating property owners are on the Activated Spaces website. Once a match is made, a limited amount of money is available to be distributed at the discretion of the Activated Spaces team for such purposes as offsetting utility costs, making cosmetic improvements to the space or other necessities for making the space operational.

Activated Spaces, a volunteer-led initiative spearheaded by young professional organizations Generation Dayton and UpDayton, has three main goals:

• reactivate and beautify vacant storefronts with creative displays

• encourage entrepreneurs, artists and community groups to occupy space for short- and long- term uses

• showcase downtown properties and increase interest and investment in available space

Activated Spaces is part of the Greater Downtown Dayton Plan, a strategic blueprint for the future of downtown. Those interested in volunteering with Activated Spaces should e-mail [email protected].

Ribbon Cutting, Food Truck Rally and Car Show on Flag Day

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32340_500946306612490_1179577479_nCreative Banners Flags & Poles  will celebrate their 35th anniversary with a ribbon cutting and food rally on Friday, June 14th at their new location, 1006 E. Dorothy Lane in Kettering.   This family owned and operated business will welcome the first 25 guests in after the ribbon cutting with a free 3′ x 5′ American flag.  Browse the selection of flags that include a variety of  US, state, college, sports and seasonal selections as well as custom flags and hardware to hang flags.  They also

Guests are invited to continue the celebration by dining at one of the  four food trucks that will be on site from 5pm  until about 9pm and enjoy a Classic Car & Muscle Car Show.  Scheduled to attend are Harvest Mobile Cuisine, G’s Cue  BBQ, McNasty’s & Zombie Dogz.

Avenue Q Review – Human Race Theatre Company – Irreverent Joy (TICKET CONTEST)

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AVENUE Q production pic 1

The cast of The Human Race Theatre Company’s Avenue Q. Photo by Scott J. Kimmins

If you’ve ever wondered why the Human Race Theatre Company continues to be heralded as one of the finest theater troupes in Southwest Ohio, take time to catch its splendidly hilarious production of “Avenue Q,” the risqué recipient of 2004 Tony Awards for Best Musical, Book and Score.

Blessed with brilliantly witty songs by Robert Lopez (“The Book of Mormon”) and Jeff Marx and a terrifically frank, clever and insightful book by Jeff Whitty (“Bring it On: The Musical”), “Avenue Q” tells a deliciously irreverent story of growing up, making mistakes, assessing regrets, falling in love, embracing identity and discovering purpose within a whimsical New York City neighborhood (impeccably designed with eye-catching graffiti and inspired nuances by Dick Block) where humans and puppets coexist. Borrowing a sunny “Sesame Street” framework, the breezy, R-rated musical dares us to examine our own beliefs and principles by poking fun at everything from racism and poverty to collegiate concerns and gay Republicans. Sometimes the bold, raunchy material is tough to swallow or outright jaw-dropping, but it can also break your heart with striking maturity, particularly when the ups and downs of a budding relationship are treated with deeply palpable poignancy.

AVENUE Q production pic 3

James Oblak with “Princeton”, Shawn Storms and Katie Pees with “Kate Monster”. Photo by Scott J. Kimmins.

The musical’s surefire comedic foundation and knockout entertainment value hasn’t diminished in the consistently reliable hands of director Joe Deer, who also helmed impressive productions of “Crazy for You” (Muse Machine) and “Spring Awakening” (Wright State) this season. Deer not only provides fluidly energetic choreography, allowing this version to surpass the original Broadway production in terms of movement and old-fashioned showmanship, but ensures his skillfully zany cast of eight steps up to the challenge of creating believable, emotionally sound characters. The material feeds the temptation to go over-the top, but it’s wonderful to see this joyfully compatible ensemble, especially those operating and voicing multiple puppets charmingly created in the Jim Henson vein by Zoot Theatre Company co-founder/ artistic director D. Tristan Cupp and adorably clothed by Shirley P. Wasser, aim for greater by achieving genuine, heartfelt sparks without aimlessly wallowing in silly, overdone caricature.

AVENUE Q production pic 4

Annie Kalahurka with the girl “Bad Idea Bear”, Katie Pees with “Kate Monster”, James Oblak with “Princeton” and Andrew Ian Adams with the boy “Bad Idea Bear”. Picture by Scott J. Kimmins

The immensely engaging, effortlessly multi-tasking James Oblak, a pleasant tenor, delivers one of the best performances of the season in the dual roles of Princeton and Rod. As the sincere, soul-searching Princeton, a liberal arts graduate in need of a life coach, Oblak appealingly explores the character’s puzzling uncertainty about his future and masters the romantic awkwardness that keeps him from obtaining true happiness. But as the uptight, snarky Rod, a closeted banker who loves Broadway musicals and secretly pines for his straight roommate, he pulls out the stops by commanding the stage with a mere glance or stance. Oblak simply attacks the fussy role with marvelously expressive vitality in which every fiber of his being encompasses denial, elation and heartbreak, particularly in his fantastic rendition of “My Girlfriend, Who Lives in Canada,” Rod’s amusing and ultimately shameful post-wedding meltdown.
An absolutely heartwarming Katie Pees is equally versatile as Kate Monster, the genial kindergarten teaching assistant attracted to Princeton, and Lucy the Slut, a saucy, curvaceous chanteuse longing to make her prey feel “Special.” Pees, a gifted comedienne who can make anyone laugh with the smallest inflection, seamlessly operates Kate while voicing Lucy in some instances, but her endearing interpretation, firmly grounded with a relatable earnestness on par with Oblak’s portrayals, is most notably solidified in her beautifully tender rendition of Kate’s lovelorn ballad “There’s a Fine, Fine Line,” which can be considered the unofficial anthem of the dating world.

AVENUE Q production pic 8

James Oblak with “Rod”, Brett Travis and Andrew Ian Adams with “Nicky”, Shawn Storms, Michelle Liu Coughlin and Michael Thomas Walker. Photo by Scott J. Kimmins.

Excellently detailed, full-fleshed featured performances are given by the amiable Brett Travis as Rod’s laidback roomie Nicky and porn-adoring Trekkie Monster, the carefree Michael Thomas Walker as aspiring comedian Brian, the utterly delightful and occasionally fiery Michelle Liu Coughlin as Brian’s Asian wife Christmas Eve, the comically upbeat, sarcastic Shawn Storms as building superintendent Gary Coleman, and the super cute duo of Andrew Ian Adams and Annie Kalahurka as the Bad Idea Bears.
John Rensel’s proficient lighting design, Janet G. Powell’s appropriately understated costumes, musical director Sean Michael Flowers’ well balanced six-piece orchestra, and Zach Rosing and Ben Phillippe’s outstanding video design accent this must-see Human Race season finale.
For now “Avenue Q” is where you’ll want to be.

 

“Avenue Q” continues through June 29 at the Loft Theatre, 126 N. Main St., Dayton. Performances are June 16 and 23 at 2 p.m., June 11, 18 and 25 at 7 p.m., and June 12-15, 19-22 and 26-29 at 8 p.m. Act One: 70 minutes; Act Two: 45 minutes. Tickets are $41-$45. The production contains adult language/content. For tickets or more information, call Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630 or visit www.ticketcenterstage.com or www.humanracetheatre.org

Crash At Savona Spurs Reinvention- The Twisted Root Opens Tuesday

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419057_10151445077586937_1790137366_nIt was about 4pm on Thursday, March 14th  and the staff at Savona were doing their usual pre-shift prep for dinner service, when a car cash crashing through a wall into the dining room.  Chef/Owner Keith Taylor, who was in the back of the restaurant when the accident occurred, said the impact “sounded like a bomb had gone off. I was startled. I went to the front to assess the situation — it looked like the roof had collapsed.”  A collision with a pickup truck sent the car into the building, and the young female driver was shaken up, but injuries to her were minor.  The same could not be said of Savona.  Building inspectors advised that the structural integrity of the restaurant had been compromised and it would be closed until repairs could be made.

Taylor took advantage of the shut down to re-valuate his business and after 5 years he’s retiring Savona.  When the restaurant reopens on Tues, June 11th at 5pm it will be as The Twisted Root restaurant & bar.  Keith says you’ll see a lot of the popular dishes that made regulars out of many of us at 971736_10200902751587429_960849776_nSavona, but also feels this rebirth will give him a wider range with menu’s.  The addition of the talents of  Chef Pete Zorotovic, formerly of Jimmy G’, Tony’s and the Precinct in Cincinnati alongside Sous Chef James Burton, and Taylor in the kitchen promise some truly scrumptious meals in our future.  Can’t wait to see what exciting things they’ll have on the menu! Taylor did mention there will be a chicken and waffles dish, loaded sweet potato hash and a grilled  shrimp cocktail.   The Twisted Root will be open 5-9pm Tues – Thurs and 5-10pm on Friday and Saturday.  Located at 70 S. Main Street, just south of St. Rt 725, reservations are suggested as the eatery only seats about 90.

The Twisted Root will be open 5-9pm Tues – Thurs and 5-10pm on Friday and Saturday.  Located at 70 S. Main Street, just south of St. Rt 725, reservations are suggested as the eatery only seats about 90.
Call (937) 610-9835 for reservations and more info.