Jazz Jam with Kelli Campbell at Wholly Grounds. Great night for music, other jazz musicians in the local area, food, and a great time performing for others. Come check out Wholly Grounds and fine musicians performing for your listening enjoyment.
Archives for December 2019
Urban Yoga Movement 2020
It is time to DO YOGA DAYTON! The Urban Yoga Movement is an indoor retreat designed to bring yogis and wellness enthusiasts together for a celebration of community, learning and peace. Guests will enjoy a morning of active and educational sessions focused on a variety of disciplines of yoga, meditation and wellness of the mind, body and soul.
Active sessions will include power and restorative options while educational sessions will cover topics that challenge your perspective on life.
Registration fee includes access to all classes.
Amazing Music Highlights from a Powerful Year in the Local Music Scene
Every year there are those who lament the lack of exciting new music. Perhaps this comes from a place of cramped personal style where we think that there can be no better music than the music when we were teenagers or the songs we listened to in college or the sonic landscape when we were dating. It is very easy – seductively easy – to become set, fixed, so focused on the music from a particular time and refuse or become unable to move beyond our individual experience. We all have our interests that shape the music we love and that is all right. The point is to avoid pigeonholing ourselves.
Therefore, with that in mind this brief commentary on local music demonstrates that 2019 was a banner year in local Dayton area music! From the release of the first records by several exciting yet different musicians, there is tremendous music arising from the Miami Valley and Dayton in particular that needs to be heard! This year we had exciting first records from the bouncy bucolic Age Nowhere (Airport Sounds), the amazingly fierce vocals of Amber Hargett (Paper Trail), the quirky indie pop of The Paint Splats’ eponymous disc to name a few new entries into the scene.
We are also fortunate to have the twenty-five year stalwarts in Shrug releasing their terrific (Easy is the New Hard). This year also included the second record from the pop-punk majesty of Brat Curse (Brat Curse II). Fresh Hip-Hop courtesy of K. Carter (NBX and The Pack live), and some of the best representation of real country music from Charlie Jackson and the Heartland Railway with an EP called EP. Mr. Jackson is not the only area musician exploring the country side of the music equation. The country soul wailing of Mack McKenzie’s tremendous (Kill the Buffalo) demonstrates that real country music is alive and well. If there is a more evocative country song than ‘Woe is Me’ this writer has not heard it.
This year also marked the return of sensual electronic soundscapes care of Dirty/Clean’s (Stereo) and one of the great local bands of 2019, Goodnight Goodnight released their passionately awaited new record (I Love you Fiercely). The hard to define industrial noise rock of HEXADIODE captured the musical imagination with their latest (Metaxy). Roley Yuma released their explosive self-titled record in 2019. Listen to those records and try not to feel. It is not possible.
While Dayton’s music scene is unbelievably strong. There has been some fine music created south of town from Frontier Folk Nebraska who released an excellent new record (Teenage Freaks) that captures the grime and grit of everyday life. Wussy driving force Chuck Cleaver’s superb Send Aid demonstrates that the drone can captivate our interest just as well as the pristine; if not even more so! Although not exactly Dayton releases, these first-rate records illustrate the outstanding music in the area. Consider it close enough. Perhaps in an additional article I will discuss the amazing music coming from the Columbus and Cincinnati area music scenes in much more detail.
Local songwriters made a strong showing in 2019. The quirky good-natured songs of John Dubuc’s Guilty Pleasures illustrated that music can both explicate real lived experience and sardonically laugh about it all. Max B. Greene released his evocative and excellent record (My Head Broke Open) that explored the dark side of the human balance. David Payne’s late 2019 release (Orange Glow) captured a welcome life affirming perspective that demonstrates the versatility of local songwriters. This year also marked the return of songwriter par excellence Mike Bankhead with his single, Little Light. That song demonstrated the depth of storytelling in Mike’s approach. I would be remiss in my duties if I did not explain that Mike also recorded a split record with Brandon Berry of The Paint Splats (Defacing The Moon).
Demonstrating both the power of songwriting and song craft, Overthought Musik’s appropriately entitled record appropriately entitled ‘Album’ is surprisingly cohesive considering that each song has a different vocalist and approach. Derl Robbins Overthought Musik is consistently releasing extraordinary music that moves from rock to pop to indie to songs that quite honestly defy facile categorization. Each song on this dynamite collection is a new discovery. While discussing Overthought, we also have to consider the fact that Dayton has a thriving set of record labels that are consistently releasing excellent music. Magnaphone Records, Poptek and Overthought Musik are creating legacies not just collections of songs. In fact, the samplers from Magnaphone Records should be explored by anyone who enjoys music. The Repeating Arms also contributed new music to the fantastic Magnaphone Records Sampler Vol. 3 (which also include David Payne, The Boxcar Suite, Shrug and others).
Sadbox released their first record in 2019, The Magic Nothing. The Magic Nothing is far from nothing. From start to finish, this record captures every growl, yell and vocal from Paul Levy and combines it with the musical alchemy courtesy of Ray Owens, Eli Alban and XXX along with the afore mentioned Mr. Levy and together these gentlemen have crafted a record that deserves to be heard and cherished.
Capturing another level of music is the power trio – in the greatest and grandest tradition in rock and roll – of Salvadore Ross (The Transfiguration of Salvadore Ross). In a fair world, this band would be playing stadiums and we would all close our eyes tight and let the psychedelic power music made by them wash over us and transport us somewhere else. Somewhere lovely, bright and kind.
Scary Hotel (Love Like Your Lonely) are making the kind of emo laden indie pop that just makes you smile. Until you notice that the lyrics are often heavy and dark, yet you keep right on smiling because the music makes you feel good, warm, and comforted. The Story Changes (To Hell With This delicate Equation) returned this year with a record that hit as hard as anything being made anywhere. Period.
Seth Canan & The Carriers released a tour de force with the rocking melancholy of change and transition (Strange Forces). The majesty in these songs lay in the direct arrangements and powerful emotions. Sympathetic buzz constructed a fantastic record in the glorious tradition of Midwestern rock (Superbloom). The Typical Johnsons continued their domination of first-rate exploration of delicate efforts to avoid being undone by the overwhelming nature of life and the choice we make or fail to make (wreckage).
Experimentation also was a key component to brilliant local music. Okay Lindon released their reggae-inspired collection (Participation this year), Seth Gilliam & The Fake News traveled the soulful side of the indie rock canon (Misconstrued) and Starving in the Belly of the whale released a remarkable achievement in the reflection of and study of memories whether real or perceived (A Memory Preserved). Gabbard & Perkins released a song celebrating local culture and food (Donuts at Bill’s). Zachary Gabbard’s project (Sunday Fed Creek Birds) released the tremendous Driving Away. Wells & Watson created the cover of the year with their version of Mike & The Mechanics ‘Silent Running’ that is more haunting than the original.
Lo Fi rocking indie is alive and well in Dayton courtesy of the prolific Smug Brothers who released three powerful records in 2019 (Attic Harvest, All Blur and Spark and Serve A Thirsty Moon). This band continues making good catchy music at a pace that would put most to shame.
Moreover, all of this from a music community still influenced by local legends Guided by Voices who released several exciting albums in 2019 (Sweating the Plague). Here is looking forward to the local music created in 2020.
8 Things to Put in Your Mouth at Midnight Tonight
While all of you foodies are toasting New Years Eve, you may want to make the best of that moment. What will be in your hand and your mouth at the stroke of midnight going into 2020?
May FOOD ADVENTURES suggest some of our tastebud favorites to accompany your rendition of “Auld Lang Syne.”
HERE’s TO YOU! HAPPY NEW YEARS!
Here are 8 things to put in your mouth at midnight tonight!
1) VERDI RASPBERRY SPARKLETINI:
The drink that takes the Dayton Italian Fall Festa by storm each year. Available at Arrow Wine. It is a Raspberry Champagne in the Malt Liquor Section. Go figure, .. warning it’s addictive, get 2 bottles.
2) BELLE OF DAYTON GIN AND TONIC:
1 part Belle of Dayton gin, to 3 parts tonic. Serve over ice with a lime wedge garnish.
3) AN OHIO OLD TIMER COCKTAIL:
3 fl oz of Cleveland Whiskey, 1 fl oz Ohio Honey or Maple syrup
Shake, and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
Garnish with a thin apple slice.
4) DOM PERIGNON:
What the hell.. no better time than New Years… If you have never tried this expensive Champagne before, you can cross it off your bucket list. Prepare to be underwhelmed for just under $200 a bottle.
5) ICE BURG XMAS ALE from STAR CITY BREWING:
Get to Miamisburg and get a growler of their spiced Xmas Ale. Keep some aside chilled, until the ball drops!
6) WHITE CLAW:
The sparkling drink that has caught the US by storm. These tall cans ignite 21 year olds to cougars in a frenzy of fizz. White Claw flavors include Raspberry, Black Cherry, Mango, Lime and Grapefruit. Guaranteed to go fast in your cooler at any New Years Party.
7) BUCKEYE VODKA NEW YEARS JUICE:
1 oz Buckeye Vodka, 2 oz Cranberry juice, 3 oz champagne on the rocks – garnish with any fruit
8) MILLER HIGH LIFE CHAMPAGNE BOTTLED BEER:
Nothing says sipping the “champagne of beers” from a seasonal champagne bottle from Miller Brewing Co.
Party on – and have a HAPPY NEW YEAR . Be safe and Uber if you need to!
Food Adventures is on Dayton Most Metro each week with a feature article.
CATCH US ON TWITTER CLICK HERE
and INSTAGRAM BY CLICKING HERE
Dayton Artists United: Valerie J. Lewis Coleman
Best-selling author and award-winning publisher, Valerie J. Lewis Coleman serves experts and professional speakers to magnify and monetize their message by publishing quality books. With over fifteen years of experience in the book business, she helps aspiring authors navigate the mysterious labyrinth of self publishing to leverage their expertise and make money.
AU—Valerie, you didn’t start out in writing and publishing. Can you tell us something about your first career?
VJLC—Prior to launching Pen of the Writer, I worked as a senior industrial engineer for Delphi Automotive Systems (formerly General Motors) in Dayton. Over the course of my twenty-six-year career, I saved the company millions of dollars by improving systems, eliminating wastes and reducing costs.
AU—And now you’re an author, motivational speaker and publishing expert who helps writers get from idea to book in hand. Let’s talk first about your books.
VJLC—Yes. When the plant closed in 2007, I transitioned my problem-solving skills to the book business to help aspiring authors save thousands of dollars, mountains of frustration and hours of research by showing them how to make publishing quick, easy and affordable.
My first book, Blended Families An Anthology, released in 2006. Published to provide biblical principles and practical tools for struggling stepfamilies, this book has transformed marriages in several countries, been #1 on Amazon.com and topped several other best-sellers’ lists.
In 2007, I taught the basics of how to write, publish and market bestsellers to inmates and high school students. When the programs ended, both groups asked, “What’s next?” Their inquiry led to the release of my second compilation, Tainted Mirror An Anthology. It’s filled with powerful stories of overcoming restrainers like addiction, abuse and attitude that keep us from reaching our potential.
The Forbidden Secrets of the Goody Box-relationship advice that your father didn’t tell you and your mother didn’t know is my first novel. The Goody Box Book released in 2010 topping several bestsellers list. I travel the country empowering women who struggle to experience a fulfilling relationship by revealing the secrets needed to attract and keep lasting love.
I extracted the relationship advice captured in the novel to create a companion workbook: I Love Myself Journal. Women can assess themselves to discover why they attract men they’d rather repel and how to experience genuine self-love.
Self-Publishing Made Easy Journals are step-by-step guides I published to transition writers to authors. Passionate Writing provides insight into avoiding the eleven common writing mistakes, overcoming writer’s block and creating believable characters your readers love…or hate. Purposeful Publishing outlines the elements of effective cover design, how to hire professional editors and cost-saving strategies that have saved my clients and me thousands of dollars.
The Wait of Success: How to Become an Overnight Success in 7300 Days is a compilation of business owners, doctors and educators sharing their journey to success. It debuted in 2017 as a Dayton Book Expo bestseller.
Oh, The Things I Can Be When I See Me is my first children’s book. Based on conversations with my granddaughters, this picture book provides examples of historical pioneers and modern-day trailblazers who have done what they hope to do and look like them. Things I Can Be launched October 2019 and the eBook became a Kindle Top 50 Bestseller a few days later.
AU—Your experience in publishing led to you helping aspiring authors write, publish and market bestsellers. What secret about publishing can you share to help readers understand how you are able to help them?
VJLC—Most authors are right-brain dominate, which is where creativity, emotions and feelings reside. Great for writing; however, the business of writing is a left-brain function consisting of fact-finding, competitive analyses and strategic planning. As a result, many independent—or self-published—authors never recoup their financial investment. My research has identified the top three reasons:
- Overpaid for services. I know an author who spent $15000 for 100 copies of their book. That’s $150 per book…at cost! It’s impossible to be profitable when you spend that kind of money to publish. In an effort to recover some of the loss, authors tend to inflate the retail price. This pricing strategy reduces book sells because consumers can choose from millions of competitively priced options (Amazon alone has over 12 million titles). Why would someone pay $20 for your book, when a similar title is available for $12…with free shipping?
- Poor quality. As I speak at conferences, I often hear aspiring authors complain about the cost of publishing (editing and printing are the most expensive expenses). To cut corners, they edit themselves or have a friend do it. Awful. It’s difficult to edit your own work because your brain and eyes play tricks on you. And if your friend isn’t proficient in industry standards, editorial parameters or reader expectations, you will lose more in sales than you save in editing. Authors who are not skilled in graphic design try to save money by doing their own covers. Another mistake that can plummet sales and forever tarnish your image in the industry.
- Didn’t have a marketing plan. I like to compare a book launch party to a funeral. Family and friends rally around you with support: financial and/or emotional. However, after the service and repass, the support wains. People get back to their lives and you hear crickets. If you don’t have a marketing plan that starts at least three months before the book releases and continues until you’re ready to retire, your sales will be dismal. The average self-published author only sells 75 copies for the life of the book. That’s not enough to cover production costs, let alone, make a profit.
I serve authors to achieve the same success my clients and I experienced: national—and sometimes, international—exposure, media attention and of course, increased book sells. At the time of this posting, I published 134 authors; more than half are best-sellers, and mentored thousands in various aspects of the book business. My services cover a spectrum to meet clients’ needs:
- Do-it-yourself options include the Self-Publishing Made Easy Journals and Because Your Words Matter Virtual Mastermind, which launches next year. Clients who want to publish multiple titles for themselves or others, opt for this approach as well as,
- Show-me-how-to-do-it. These services includes private mentoring, group mentoring and training at live events.
- Just-do-it-for-me is book publishing. Since many of my clients are professional speakers and experts, they do not have the time—or desire—to master the intricacies of book publishing. They hire me to do the work for them.
AU—One of the things I love about your message is how direct you are talking about publishing as a business. For example, you advertise your workshops using the words “magnify and monetize your message.” I have found that most artists, and especially authors, are a little uncomfortable talking so frankly about the money side of creativity. Is that your experience?
VJLC—Absolutely. It goes back to right-brain dominance. Artists and authors tend to focus on creating versus business management. Adding to the fear of asking for money is another right-brain personality trait: introversion. Another factor is that women are less likely to brag on themselves than men. I’m not sure what’s the root cause of this disparity, but I bet it has something to do with gender biases in child rearing.
AU—But your business isn’t just about money, it’s also about message. Your new bestselling children’s book, Oh, The Things I Can Be When I See Me, has a very positive message. Talk to me about the book.
VJLC—Experts say that a child’s personality, esteem and confidence are formed by the age of seven years. To me, every conversation with a child is an opportunity to teach. Whether basic life skills, kindness or career aspirations, we have to encourage our babies to be the best they can be. With bullying, hate and other negative influences, I want to spread the message of dreaming big, staying focused and following your heart. I also use the book as a tool to teach my granddaughters entrepreneurism and money management. I plan to offer a scholarship to deserving girls who may not have funding for college.
AU—You have been a great supporter of Artists United’s efforts to connect Dayton creatives, thank you for that! What do you think needs to happen for more writers to see themselves as part of Artists United?
VJLC—Before anyone will invest their time, money or efforts, they have to know, like and trust you. Since you are an amazing advocate for artists, Curtis, they need to know the benefits of connecting with you. You will have to be consistent, frequent and deliberate with social media posts, emails and in-person meetings. My most-effective strategy is phone calls. It helps introverts come out of their shell without having to leave the comforts of home. By the way, I’m an introvert who struggles with face-to-face interactions; however, I have adapted to ambivert strategies to get the job done.
AU—You hosted a writer’s retreat in November. What’s next?
VJLC—Yes! Free Your Mind and the Words Will Follow Writers Retreat was amazing. I reserved a private lodge in the mountains of Kentucky. I helped attendees relax, rejuvenate and release their creativity with techniques that stimulated mind, body and soul. They left energized, empowered and expecting greater.
The year of perfect 20/20 vision marks my eleventh year hosting citywide book events in Dayton. The Pen of the Writer (POWER) Book Fest, held in conjunction with The Indulge Event (another decade-long citywide event), is the Saturday before Mother’s Day. The event includes workshops for aspiring authors, activities for children in the POWER Kids area and scores of authors signing books.
To effectively serve more people, I have to replicate my efforts. Because Your Words Matter Virtual Mastermind will consist of online courses, interviews with subject matter experts, checklists, resources and group mentoring with me.
I am working on several book projects for clients. My goal is to publish ten new Queen V Publishing titles next year.
AU—Is there anything else you’d like to share?
VJLC—The book business can be difficult to maneuver; however, with hard work, consistency and expert guidance, you can experience great success. Although technological advances have simplified publishing, I encourage you to proceed with caution. Predatory service providers overpromise and under deliver causing many hopeful writers to give up on their dreams. If you’re ready to make quantum leaps toward the success of your book, schedule a complimentary discovery session with me at https://penofthewriter.as.me. I look forward to serving you to meet and exceed your publishing objectives.
AU—Thank you for taking the time to speak to us.
How To Create A Slam Worthy Story
Story Slam Dayton kicks off 2020 with a “Storytelling for the Stage” workshop on January 13th from 7 to 8:30pm.
Story Slam Dayton is Dayton’s monthly open-mic storytelling event held at Wiley’s Comedy Club in the Oregon District. Modeled after The Moth storytelling events, the open mic event welcomes storytellers of all ages and experience levels to share a story from the stage. So far Story Slam has done 40 shows, 3 clinics and spurred a half dozen Moth Storytellers, and hosted more than one hundred tellers to our stage.
The January 13th workshop, led by Story Slam producer Bryan Suddith, will cover the basics of crafting a personal story for the Story Slam stage. The class will give you the tools to create a story, practice and take the stage with confidence under the lights.
There are few simple rules.
1) The story has to be factual / true and happened to YOU personally.
2) You can use no notes to tell your story. (Has to be conversation style.)
3) Stories must have a beginning, middle and end.
4) Time limit is 5 minutes
Space for the workshop is limited, so reserve your spot in the workshop online, just $10. Each attendee will also get one complimentary ticket for a future slam.
Doors open at 6:30 and tellers are welcome to put their name in the pot and one at a time names are drawn to take the stage, with up to 10 tellers presenting. Judges will rate each story with the winner walking away with $50 cash, a guaranteed spot at the next event and four guest passes.
Blind Bob’s NYE W/ The Big WAZU
Come ring in the new year with Dayton’s loudest 70’s and 80’s tribute band, The Big WAZU.
Doors @ 9
Music @ 10
21+
$10 entry
YuleTide Yammering presented by Mayhem & Mystery
Join Yule Tide as he hosts his always popular holiday game show, YuleTide Yammerings. Contestants debate holiday traditions. If they can’t convince the audience to believe their side, they choose champions to “Play It Out!”. Magi Myrrh is a huge fan and will do anything to be on the show. Noel King plans and runs the games. Are he and Yule friends or foes? Yule is hoping to get a new network deal. Is the new contestant Holi Day the one? Or is she just here because she knows one of the them from the past? Join us for the holiday fun and see. When someone suddenly can’t seem to breathe, is it natural causes or something more sinister? See if you can solve the mystery. 29.95 for dinner and the show (tax and gratuity not included. Call 937-461-3913 for tickets.
Club Masque- The End of An Era is Near
Woke up this morning to a most distressing message posted by Luke Liakos, owner of Club Masque:
DUE TO MASQUE NOT BEING ABLE TO NEGOTIATE A REASONABLE LEASE OR PURCHASE OF THE BUILDING WE WILL BE CLOSING THE VENUE….. LEVEL 2 LAST DAY WILL BE JANUARY 18TH…….LEVEL 1 LAST DAY WILL BE JANUARY 25TH……..I WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE WONDERFUL STAFF,ENTERTAINERS, AND AMAZING CUSTOMERS WE HAVE HAD OVER THE YEARS. WE COULDN’T HAVE DONE IT WITHOUT YOU. WE ARE ACTIVELY LOOKING FOR A NEW LOCATION. ANY REALTORS OR BUILDING OWNERS THAT THINK MASQUE MIGHT BE A GOOD FIT LET US KNOW. THIS NEW LOCATION WILL HOPEFULLY BE IN DAYTON,BUT WE ARE OPEN TO MOVING IT TO A NEW CITY. THANK YOU ALL….IT HAS BEEN AN AMAZING 15 YEARS HOPEFULLY TO BE CONTINUED TO A NEW VENUE!!!!!
Luke
Club Masque opened 15 years ago and blew away the standard for Gay Bars. Drawing crowds from across the midwest, with a state of the art showroom on the first floor and the second floor open dance hall with speakers and advanced lighting systems that take up the entire level.
They’ve hosted a variety of shows and events ranging from Male Revues, drag shows, open stages, college nights, and karaoke nights. Winning accolades and awards from Best Dance Club, Best Gay Bar, Premier Show Club, Masque quickly established itself as “the midwest gay bar.”
Here are just some of the comments being left on this thread
-
Kayla Michelle Carpenter Heaaarrttbrokennnn ? I’m so thankful to have been a part of the past 6 years. ??Gregg A. Montgomery Sad my friend. You brought so much to downtown
-
-
Anthony Stefan Omg! 15 years, I can’t believe it, so sorry to hear this, with your following I’m sure you will find a better location, this is tragic!
-
Ryan Crockett Wow! Never thought I’d see this happen. With all the recognition and popularity that comes with Masque, one would think they’d be eager to renew the lease…
On to better things, good luck in your search! -
Yvette Hobbs So sorry to hear this. Not only did I debut in Drag at Masque, I made a few of my best friends there, as well as had more fun during some of the events.
-
Tim Osborne This is absolutely devastating. So many memories and friendships made there. This will be a very hard goodbye.
-
-
Justin Chalender Miles ???? this is super sad. Everything started HERE for me.
-
-
Irvin Moscowitz A real shame Luke. The club did a lot of good for a lot of people for a long time
-
Manuel Belmontes Man this place was a safe haven and a home for so many lgbtq+ kids and adults. I almost feel like its unfair to take it away from the next generations… ?
-
Jenna Bowen This is so sad! Never in a million years did I ever think this would happen. Luke Liakos, you have brought so much to the downtown area and we are eternally grateful! We will continue to stand beside you! Masque WILL live on!!!!
-
Zahrah Jordan ? this is devastating. I didn’t realize my attachment to this place till tears appeared reading this. I pray that a new venue is found and the Masque legacy continues ?Dick Amann Fifteen years Luke Liakos! Great memories of its inception and realization. Do it again for for Dayton!
My Favorite Films of 2019
Hello Dayton MostMetro!
When asked to write a “Best of ” list about movies, it’s hard to decide what to write. First off, it’s so subjective…do people really want to read about my personal tastes or should I look at films scholastically and determine what is the “best” in regards to craft? In addition, what should I include – only films that got picked up for distribution? only films that screened in this market? only films that got a release this year?
Here’s what I’ve decided. The following list is a collection of films that I saw and loved this year. (Though some films didn’t play until 2019 in Dayton, movies like CAPERNAUM and IF BEALE STREET COULD TALK and THE FAVOURITE are not on the list because I saw them in 2018.) And contrary to popular belief, not all the films on the list screened at THE NEON!
I should make it known that I have not seen every film that got a release this year…once in a while, a film even plays at THE NEON that I can’t fit into my schedule. I tend to shy away from science fiction (though not always), most horror movies and films with gratuitous violence and/or machismo-driven male plot lines (a la Tarantino). (I have not yet seen THE IRISHMAN – as I intend to see it on our big screen on NYE.)
Here they are. 15 Favorite Films of 2019 (in alphabetical order):
AMERICAN FACTORY – Julia Reichert & Steve Bognar’s masterful documentary is stunningly heartfelt and equally scary. It’s a call to action from and regarding America’s workforce (which also happens to be filmed in our own backyard). I’m so happy for Julia & Steve’s success with this film!
BELLE EPOQUE – This little French gem with Daniel Auteuil and Fanny Ardant has not yet found a distributor in the US, but its existential ETERNAL SUNSHINE vibe is so much fun…I hope it makes its way to the States soon. Here’s a trailer:
THE BLONDE ONE – I love a good, slow-paced, foreign film that’s beautifully shot and fraught with honest sexual tension…especially when I can empathize on some level. This film is a slow burn, and I love it. (It played at The Dayton LGBT Film Festival.)
BOOKSMART – This generation’s CLUELESS is smart, fresh and so endearing…the best teen comedy in years! I watched this film on a flight to Germany…and again on the flight back. Beanie is a treasure! (trailer is for mature audiences)
CIRCUS OF BOOKS – This endearing doc about a straight Jewish couple who ran one of the most famous gay adult bookstores in the US while raising three children is poignant, personal and a great history lesson. (This film screened as part of The Dayton LGBT Film Festival – there is no trailer yet.)
THE FAREWELL – This runaway hit is billed as a comedy, but it’s so much more.
JOJO RABBIT – My feelings about this film ebb and flow…today it happened to make the list. The child performances are extraordinary, and the production design is flawless. This film has a lot to say about how our children are often taught to hate – and how easy it is to spread misinformation.
THE LAST BLACK MAN IN SAN FRANCISCO – This poetic film isn’t getting much year-end discussion, but I absolutely loved it – from the performances to the score to the cinematography.
LITTLE WOMEN – Thoughtful and exquisite! I complain about movie runtimes a lot. (I wish MARRIAGE STORY and WAVES were both 15-20 minutes shorter.) But this film seemed rushed at times…I think it would be stronger with a slightly slower pace and perhaps a runtime of 20 minutes more. Regardless, this is a gorgeous film with a beautiful structure.
PAIN & GLORY – Almodovar’s best film in over a decade…and that’s quite a feat (JULIETA and THE SKIN I LIVE IN are also quite strong from the last several years). This quiet film is full of rich performances, inventive storytelling and fantastic production design.
PARASITE – Must be seen. This film changes genres on a dime and has so much to say about class. Full of surprises and beautiful to look at – even when dark and disturbing.
PORTRAIT OF A LADY ON FIRE – This film will get a release in early 2020, and it is sublime. I can’t wait to see it again.
ROCKS – This film has not yet been picked up for distribution. It’s a gorgeous and heartbreaking story about a young girl trying to take care of her younger brother and herself after her mother has disappeared (again). There is sadly no trailer for this – just a clip.
THE TWO POPES – This film isn’t just a chamber piece – though simple moments between these two brilliant actors are certainly worth studying.
UNSETTLED – Winner of this year’s Audience Award at The Dayton LGBT Film Festival, this story about LGBT refugees in America is touching, timely, thought-provoking and powerful.
Don’t get me wrong. There are many more solid films from this year. There are movies with standout performances (like HARRIET) or incredible cinematography (like HONEYLAND) or great messages (like BIGGEST LITTLE FARM) or fascinating central subjects (like SOUND OF MY VOICE or PAVAROTTI) – but it’s the “Top 15” that really spoke to me in their entirety. That said, these other films are certainly worth mentioning (also in alphabetical order): A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD, BOMBSHELL, CLEMENCY, DARK WATERS, GLORIA BELL, HONEY BOY, HOPE GAP, HOW TO BUILD A GIRL (here’s Beanie again!!), THE KINGMAKER, MARRIAGE STORY (sometimes I want to switch this with JOJO RABBIT), STRAIGHT UP, VARDA BY AGNES, and WAVES.
For the sake of trivia, here are the top 3 highest grossing films of 2019 at THE NEON:
#1 – JOJO RABBIT. #2 – DOWNTON ABBEY. #3 – HARRIET. (LITTLE WOMEN could possibly join the list, but it will be split between 2019 and 2020.)
Wishing everyone a happy and prosperous New Year.
See you at the movies,
Jonathan
3 Days Left to Catch the Legendary Lights of Clifton Mill
The Legendary Lights of Clifton Mill, a Christmas Holiday tradition for over three decades, highlighted on ABC TV’S ‘THE GREAT CHRISTMAS LIGHT FIGHT’ in 2018 winning top honors as the best Christmas Lights in the Heavyweight Division, is ON for few more days.
If you’ve been waiting for just the right moment to get in the Christmas spirit, now is time. Our 32nd year concludes December 30. We are open Christmas Eve & Christmas night 6-8pm. All other evenings 6-9pm.
Admission is $10, children 3 and under are free with paying adult. We also offer a nice variety of snacks and treats for any appetite and don’t forget to check out our gift shop with wonderful items and of course pancake mix to take home.
Gates open at 5pm, and LIGHTS turn-on at 6pm, over 4.2 million lights brighten the night instantly, transforming the mill and gorge into a shimmering world of Christmas wonder.
The Legendary Lights of Clifton Mill is an outdoor event and weather permitting. Please dress accordingly and comfortable walking shoes are encouraged. In case of inclement weather, we suggest calling beforehand 937-767-5501 or check our social media platforms for information
Clifton is in Greene County, Ohio three miles east of Yellow Springs on State Rt. 343, six miles south of Springfield on State Rt. 72, and three miles north of Cedarville on Rt. 72.
For more information visit www.cliftonmill.com, follow us on Facebook, and now Twitter & Instagram or call 937-767-5501.
We hope you can make it out to experience this generational event full of Christmas cheer and wonderment.
Bryan Suddith’s Favorite Downtown Lunch Spots
After 10 years working in the Suburbs 2019 brought a new job downtown in the Fireblocks district. I was excited to be downtown for work again, after a decade of being gone, the race was on to find a new set of regular lunch spots. Downtown is on fire and I wasted little time getting acquainted.More than dining, I was pleased to find my bank branch in walking distance, a barber just blocks away and new spots to eat alongside some longtime favorites.
Here’s my regular lunch list. Regular meaning, at least once a month and a few a little more often.
937-223-8702
Known for burgers, but I go for the home cooking. Beans, greens, cornbread, slow cooked ribs and the best fried chicken on North Main. Bring cash. I’ve been coming here for almost 15 years and now its a short drive, I get there more often. I still have yet to get a burger. It’s home-cooked food and cafeteria style gets you in an out pretty quick.
44 W. Third Street
This place is located just west of the Arcade on 3rd. Gyros and Kabobs, as well as great hummus plates and salads. It is hard to find better service or friendlier faces behind the counter. For less than $10 you can get a serving of Baba Ghanouj, veggies, pita and a salad for a great vegetarian lunch.
Carmen’s Deli
Corner of Jefferson & 2nd Inside of the Stratocache Tower
Nicest place to have lunch downtown. Unparalleled service. The only place with service that goes above Olive. I’ve yet to order anything that disappointed. Two or three times a month I find my way to Carmen’s for the Reuben or Falafel Gyro. The Falafel is bright green, full of flavor and crumbled atop lettuce, tomatoes, olives, tzatziki and feta. This is another Veggie only meal that never disappoints. Stop by Carmen’s located in the Kettering Tower.
1914 E. 3rd Street
(937) 554-8196
This place. I probably visit 3 times a month or more. Call ahead, have cash ready. $2 street tacos are my go to, but my office mates have ordered the Quesadilla (its a monster full of chicken, cheese and veggies) as well as the burritos. Street tacos are soft corn tortillas, meat, onions, and cilantro. I usually get three for lunch and like the steak as well as chorizo and chicken mixed in one taco. It’s a killer combo. A touch of hot sauce and a touch of the green salsa and you’ve got taco bliss. The wait can get long if you don’t call ahead. The truck can be found on East 3rd and Huffman.
Canal Street Arcade Deli
308 E. First Street
937–220–9333
Not downtown, it’s on Brown Street but…the new free Flyer Express runs down Main Street to Brown like clockwork. Buses come by every ten minutes making a quick ride to Brown Street easy for downtown folks to expand their lunch option. Our affinity for Pita Pit has meant that we’ve ordered Pita Platters for office lunchs more than a few times this year. I like the traditional pita but the Thai Chicken and Buffalo Chicken Pitas are worth your attention.
Not Often Enough
Lock 27 at the Dragon’s Stadium never disappoints for long lunches. Its a longer walk but the wings, soups and salads make it worth it. The beer does too. This place is easy to get in and out of for lunch and there’s always room.If you work downtown, where are you getting lunch?
Reflecting on 2019 through PK Dayton
For so many of us, 2019 will be remembered through a series of unthinkable events. However bleak our year, the optimistic spirit of Daytonians was unmistakable, and our community’s kindness and generosity far eclipsed hate and destruction. We often found ourselves converging to commemorate the good. As I reflect on 2019, I see many of these gatherings as reflective of our experiences, our desire to connect with each other, and a place for respect and appreciation as we process the world around us.
Several times in 2019, we gathered to share our stories during a PechaKucha event. In case you aren’t familiar with PechaKucha (or PK), here is a quick overview: PK is an event that started in Tokyo in 2003 by architects Astrid Klein and Mark Dytham. Their purpose was to create a fun, informal social event where stories could be shared, but long, boring presentations would be eliminated. They requested that speakers use a simple presentation format comprised of 20 visual slides that are timed at 20 seconds per slide. In 400 seconds, a speaker visually and verbally conveys a story to a captive audience. The PK experience caught on, and now “PechaKucha Nights” are hosted in over 1,200 international cities, including Dayton.
Celebrating our community was one reason that Jill Davis and Matt Sauer brought PechaKucha to Dayton in 2009. Over the past 10 years, PK Dayton has presented over 41 events, and included hundreds of speakers and thousands of audience members. Matt and Jill have since passed the PK baton to I, Katy Kelly, Mike Beerbower and Jason Antonick, and we continue to organize PK events four times a year.
In 2019, 37 people from our community presented their ideas, accomplishments, challenges and stories. As I looked back at 2019 through my PK Dayton lens, I connect what our speakers have shared to the spirit of our city. Here are a few examples.
Dayton is populated with local heroes – individuals and groups that dedicate their time and energy to the betterment of our community. Naval veteran Chef Thomas Johnson created Dayton Cooks, a West Dayton-based culinary arts job training program, presenting “Food for Thought: The Life of a Culinarian” with Dayton Cooks students catering the event. Lisa Grigsby of the Dayton Film Commission shed light on what it takes to be a film commissioner and economic development driver in her talk “Daytonwood,” including scouting regional helipads for a Mariah Carey production. Jes McMillan, a mosaic artist, shared “Community Artreach,” where collaborative efforts to create large-scale public art pieces throughout the region are a team effort. Amaha Sellassie presented “We Are the Ones We Have Been Waiting For” as he reflected on community organizing and advocacy work including the development of the Gem City Market in West Dayton which broke ground this fall.
Speakers often recognize the attributes that make Dayton unique. April Alford told the story of how local artists created a place for people of color to share their art in the Miami Valley and around the country, while offering arts education to community members in “Black Heritage through Visual Rhythms.” Sean Mitchell recognized that the greatness of Dayton was possible because of our collaborative nature and desire to work together for the greater good in “Collaboration, Community, and a Sweater.”
PK presentations are not always celebratory; presentations can be challenging and reflect our society’s shortcomings. Jacqui Taylor asked us to consider the under-representation of diversity in children’s books in “Long Overdue: Representation in Children’s Literature,” sharing the statistics gathered over the past few years that demonstrate this disparity. Joshua Weston shared his deeply personal story about a family trauma, a scandal and the stigma that effected his childhood in “Pew Baby.”
Other speakers shared humor: Samantha Enslen presented “The Secret Life of Barbie,” based on a childhood photo album that she and her sister created around three Darci Dolls and their documented adventures as models and martial arts experts. Lindsay Gustafson’s colorful, artist-inspired clothing (think Keith Harring prints or neon unicorns) mirror the art projects she makes with her middle school students in “Teaching the Arts: Fashion Edition.” Kristen Wicker recounts being scammed in “My Two Hours as a Federal Fugitive (or: Never Return a Call from the Social Security Administration)” with incredible illustrations by Josh Koenig.
Jacobee Rose Buchanan, an artist and librarian, shared “As NEVER Seen on TV” which chronicled her experience of leaving NY to move back to Dayton and help her HGTV-obsessed mom with rehabbing a fixer-upper – an ultimate test of DIY endurance along with unexpected critters, no plumbing, and insurance claims.
Another valuable aspect of PK is its nomadic nature. Taking place in different venues around the region helps motivate many of our audience members to visit a new neighborhood or building. We began the year at the Dayton Art Institute and learned about its remarkable beginnings 100 years ago through a Daytonian’s passion for the arts. We then took over the sanctuary at Grace Church, a vibrant community-centered space in the historic Dayton View neighborhood on Salem Avenue. We celebrated our 40th PK event at the newly renovated Liberty Tower (known previously as the Hulman Building) in downtown Dayton and admired the stunning art deco architectural details. We ended the year at The Plaza Theatre in Miamisburg, celebrating a 1919 movie theatre that was lovingly restored through community efforts.
This year was challenging, but this year also reminded me of why the people of our region are extraordinary. I remember the diverse stories our brave PK speakers shared, and the many connections that occurred with new and familiar faces in a crowd of people, I know we move into the New Year with hope, respect and compassion.
Save the Date for the first PK Night of 2020- Thurs, Feb 20th at the Dayton Art Institute
The 17th Annual HoliDayton features Dayton’s Best Original Rock!
For local rock fans, one of the holiday season’s most beloved traditions is the 17th annual HoliDayton showcase. This year’s event is happening Saturday December 28th, 2019 at Blind Bob’s Bar. As with years prior, there will be two stages of performances alternating throughout the evening from 8pm to 2am! Come early, stay late and celebrate another year of great Dayton music.
HoliDayton is organized by Mark McMillon, the guitarist for Hawthorne Heights and The Story Changes. Despite his very busy touring scheduling, putting together this Dayton original music mini-festival is one thing he always prioritizes. It’s an awesome way to celebrate being back home for the holidays, see friends and check out old and new bands alike!
The 2019 lineup features lots of rock, punk and straight up fun from The Nightbeast, The Story Changes, Abertooth Lincoln, Legbone, YARDBOSS, New World Natives, Seth Canan & The Carriers, Better Anyway and Business Casuals.
How to Go?
When: Saturday December 28th, 2019 starting at 8pm.
Where: Blind Bob’s Bar in the Oregon District
Cost: $10 at the door
Who: 21 and up
NYE Dinners to End the Decade
Beavercreek Resolution Run
Proceeds from the race benefit the Beavercreek High School Cross Country Program!
Packet Pickup on race day 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM