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Classic Car Event Saluts The Stingray **Ticket Contest**

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6974390667160768504The seventh annual Dayton Concours d’Elegance at Carillon Historical Park will begin at 10:30 AM on Sunday, September 15th. Examine and admire 200 of the finest classic and antique automobiles and motorcycles in the country, amidst the beautiful and welcoming setting of the region’s premier outdoor museum. Guests will be treated to food, live music, and historical demonstrations in addition to the chance to see beautiful cars and motorcycles up close and personal.The iconic Corvette Stingray of the mid 1960’s will be honored at the Dayton Concours. Joining the Stingray will be the power and grace of Ferrari and the classic styling of Aston Martin as the British marque celebrates its 100th anniversary.The event will culminate with an awards ceremony around 3:00 PM. Winners of the “Best in Class” awards will parade to the awards stage, in addition to the R.H. Grant Best in Show, Charles Kettering People’s Choice, Col. Edward Deeds Judge’s Choice, Siler Spirit, Taj Ma Garaj, and Kid’s Choice Awards.

The Concours will also have special classes for automobiles built in 1913, 1938 and 1963. Guests will get to see up close, 200 antique and classic automobiles and motorcycles, displayed on the grounds of Carillon Historical Park.  Tickets run $15 for adults, $5 for children 3-17 with children under 3 free. You can purchase online at Dayton History’s website. 

interior_photos_9To get you  all revved up for the  2013 Dayton Concours d’Elegance  you may want to attend the Saturday night Preview Party. This evening event features  food, adult beverages, music, and entertainment at Carillon Historical Park. Guests will be treated to a first look of some of the incredible vehicles to be showcased in Sunday’s main event and will enjoy an exclusive shopping opportunity in the Art Pavilion. They will also be tempted by an array of auction items, including the original artwork featured on this year’s souvenier program!

The  Preview Party will be held from 6:30 – 10:30 pm, tickets are $85 per person, $75 for Dayton History members and reservations are required. All proceeds from the weekend events go to Dayton History, Montgomery County’s official historical organization.

DMM is giving away a pair of tickets to Saturday’s preview party.  To be eligible to win, like and share this article and fill out the entry form below.  Leaving a comment below about why you should win may also sway our judges! :)[form 55 “DMM Contest Entry – Generic”]

Remodeled Rusty Bucket Now Open **Gift Certificate Giveaway**

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Rusty-Bucket3Rusty Bucket Restaurant and Tavern by the Dayton Mall is celebrating its new design enhancements and an updated menu.   The neighborhood gathering place now features an updated three-sided bar, and all-season patio space including heaters and a fireplace. The remodel also incorporates new wood tables and chairs in the dining room along with black leather booths and upgraded lighting.  Additional design enhancements include a “video wall” big-screen projection television, which can be used as one large screen or individual screens and a new private dining room that will seat up to eight guests.

Guests visiting Rusty Bucket for the Grand Re-Opening will also be introduced to an updated menu, fresh cocktails and 12 additional draft handles. Some of the new menu items include an appetizer featuring fresh Mussels sautéed in white wine, an Asian inspired Thai Steak Salad, an exceptional burger for bacon lovers – the Double Bacon Cheddar and the highly popular Saturday Blue Plate Special Backyard BBQ Ribs have made their way to the menu every day. In addition, the Rusty Bucket’s Daily Drink Specials have been updated to include popular drinks such as a Mule cocktail on Mondays or Throwback Thursdays that feature three classics – Luxardo Old Fashioned, Pink Gin Fizz and Pecan Manhattan. The additional draft handles will give guests 24 draft beers to choose from including Dogfish Head 60 minute IPA, Fathead IPA, Great Lakes Seasonal and Sam Adams Seasonal.

Rusty Bucket is located at 2812 Miamisburg Centerville Rd just outside the Dayton Mall. Rusty Bucket offers a kid’s menu, a gluten-free friendly menu, as well as Blue Plate Specials available all day, a weekday happy hour and daily drink specials featuring house made cocktails. Call-ahead seating is available by calling 937-436-2426.

DMM wants to send some of our readers to enjoy the new Rusty Bucket, so we’ere giving away two $25 gift cards.  To enter to win, like this post, share it on facebook and fill in the form below.  We’ll announce our winners Tuesday night.

Congratulations to contest winners: Nathan Driver of Miamisburg and Ashley King of Franklin!

Dayton Gay Mens Chorus Announces Artistic Director

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The Dayton Gay Men’s Chorus is pleased to announce interim Artistic Director, Kathy Fagan Clark, will be joining the men beginning the 2013-14 Season!

 

After receiving a Bachelor’s in Music Ed from Ohio University, and a MM from Wright State University, Kathy Fagan Clark went on to become the Vocal Music  Director at Centerville HS for 26 years.   While there, Kathy has received straight superior ratings at District OMEA.  One of Centerville High School’s  select vocal groups, The Elktonians, have competed and traveled all over singing the National Anthem for the Cincinnati Red’s, performing at the Grand ‘Ole Opry in Nashville, working with Simon Callaway from The Kings’ Singers in Chicago, competing in Toronto, to recently singing at historical Christ Church in Philadelphia.

 

Kathy Clark is recently retired from the Vocal Music Director position at Centerville High School where she taught for 26 years. Kathy has been seen in many productions around Dayton including The Human Race productions of Baby,  Beehive and Macabaret, as well as Dayton Opera productions of Carmen,  La Boheme and The Pirates of Penzance.  Kathy has performed her cabaret show to sell out audiences from which two live recordings have resulted.  Along with singing the National Anthems at Centerville HS graduations and Cincinnati Reds’ games, she has an album of original songs, recorded at the Gaither Studios entitled “You Are My Friend”.  Kathy was also privileged to be a Cabaret Scholar at the Eugene O’Neil Center in Connecticut working with great song stylists like Margaret Whiting, Julie Wilson and Sally Mays to name a few.  She is currently a choir member, and soloist, at Dayton Westminster Presbyterian Church, and recently seen in the Dayton Playhouse production of Side by Side by Sondheim.

 

Kathy is thrilled to be joining the DGMC on their mission “to inspire, encourage, and sustain excellence in the choral arts and to achieve a gay affirming presence in the greater Miami Valley,” and the members couldn’t be more excited to be under her leadership!!

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The DGMC season kickoff will be Saturday, December 7th with the Holiday Concert “Celebrate, with a special guest appearance by the Sinclair Community College Handbell Choir, that will take place at Westminster Presbyterian Church on North Wilkinson Street in Dayton. For more information, check out the DGMC website.

Blueberrry Pie Ice Cream Cones For The Cure at Greater’s

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Graeters-Free-Elenas-Blueberry-Ice-CreamHey Ice Cream Lovers-  treat yourself to a free scoop of Elena’s Blueberry Pie ice cream and help fund cancer research.  Elena’s Blueberry Pie, a rich vanilla ice cream with luscious blueberries and tasty bits of flaky pie crust, was created by a loyal Graeter’s customer to benefit The Cure Starts Now.  The Cure Starts Now’s mission is to find a cure for all cancers by focusing on pediatric brain cancer.

During Cones for the Cure, guests who visit a Graeter’s store during the campaign period have the opportunity to donate a $1 or $5 “Cone for the Cure.” Graeter’s will also offer a $15 savings booklet for every donation of $5 or more to The Cure Starts Now.

On Wednesday, September 4th from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. All local Graeter’s will be giving away free scoops of Elena’s Blueberry Pie Ice Cream.

 The Cure Starts Now Foundation – a non-profit organization founded by the Desserich family of Cincinnati after losing their six-year-old daughter, Elena, to cancer in 2007. Its mission is to educate, aid and fund the research for a cure for pediatric brain cancer in the hopes of curing all cancers. This irresistible flavor combination was offered for a limited time in the summer of 2008 and was so popular that it sold out in just two weeks. Now, the flavor is back as a permanent item on the Graeter’s menu and a portion of its sales will continue to benefit The Cure Starts Now. Graeter’s is proud to partner with this wonderful organization and thrilled to offer customers a delicious way to support such a worthy cause. Blueberry Pie ice cream is now available by the scoop and by the pint in Graeter’s retail stores, as well as by the pint in select grocery stores, and through Graeter’s mail order and Website.

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Dayton’s Party of Parties Takes On Fairytales

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mx-2013-theme-1 Dayton’s biggest party, ARC Masquerage, is just six weeks away! The signature event of AIDS Resource Center Ohio, held annually on the third Saturday of October, will take place October 19 in the Colesium at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds (1043 S. Main St., Dayton).

Thousands have attended the elaborate masquerade ball, billed as “Dayton’s party of parties,” since its 2002 inception, helping raise $1.1 million for HIV/AIDS treatment and awareness. This year, Masquerage is expected to bring in $160,000 in unrestricted funding for ARC Ohio, with $90,000 in corporate sponsorship alone. The funds raised will assist individuals infected and affected by HIV/AIDS.

Each year, Masquerage carries a theme which inspires the decor and costume choices. This year’s, “Once Upon a Time…,” puts an adult spin on childhood fairy tales.

A costume isn’t required to attend Masquerage, only a mask or disguise; among the elaborate costumes each year, one can also find attendees in t-shirts and jeans, pajamas, tuxedos and evening gowns, and, well, almost nothing at all. But dressing up is a big part of the fun, and this year’s storybook backdrop is a bottomless wishing well of great possibilities.

If you’re having trouble coming up with an idea, you’re either thinking too much, or not thinking enough. The first thing you should do is break your mind out of the Disney box. Fairy tales go much farther and wider than the Disney Classics. They can be a great foundation to build upon here, but by no means should they be a limit to your choices. Here are some suggestions that go above and beyond Cinderella and Snow White.

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Greek gods in action: a little mythological cosplay.

  • Each culture has its own fairy tales. Do some research into those. (Western culture is, for example, quite familiar with Rudyard Kipling’s stories from Colonial India.)

  • Many cultures also have their own mythologies. Think of the leprechaun tales of Irish lore. Remember Iron Man’s Loki? That character is based on Loki, the Norse god of war. Do some looking into the Norse gods, or the fables of West Africa’s Anansi, the spider god. And, of course, the entire Greek mythological universe is fair play here. People looking for a clever group costume could deck themselves out as the Gods of Olympus. (Extra points for a good centaur costume!)

  • American’s tall tales are frontier fairy tales. Johnny Appleseed, Pecos Bill and Sluefoot Sue, John Henry, Casey Jones: these are American fairy tale heroes.

  • Another classic American fairy tale is frequently told around Halloween: The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.

  • Rise to the challenge of being the Gingerbread Man, with a costume made of real candy!

  • Rumpelstiltskin is similar to a leprechaun. He shouldn’t be forgotten.

  • Think of the tales you were told as a child. Santa, Mrs. Claus, the reindeer and the elves. The tooth fairy.

  • Speaking of Christmas, there’s a whole world of characters right there. The Grinch and Cindy Lou Who. Herbie the Elf and Yukon Cornelius. The Abominable Snowman. Heatmiser and Snowmiser. Frosty. Rudolph. The entire cast of The Nutcracker. (How great would it be to see a Sugarplum Fairy and a Rat King?!) And, of course, Ebenezer Scrooge and his spirits. The Midwest loves to shove Christmas in people’s faces before Halloween’s even arrived. Double up your holiday value and get in the Yuletide spirit a little early!

    The Wizard of Oz is just one of many modern fairy tales.

  • Think of the urban legends from your childhood. Trolls under bridges. Bloody Mary. Candyman. The Boogeyman. When you imagined that monster that lived under your bed, what did it look like?

  • Think of our modern fairy tales that have become pop culture standards, like Edward Scissorhands and The Nightmare Before Christmas, The Wizard of Oz, E.T., Shrek, Toy Story, Mary Poppins, The Princess Bride, The Neverending Story, Labyrinth and The Dark Crystal, even Pan’s Labyrinth. If you stretch that just a little further, one might consider films like Ghostbusters, Beetlejuice, and even Pleasantville (extra points for gray-toning yourself into black and white!) as sources, given their fantasy elements.

  • Speaking of Tim Burton, let’s try be a little original. Do we really want a party with fifty Johnny Depp Mad Hatters? Do we really? Think about it.

  • Look past Disney at the animated films from other parts of the world. Japanese anime, for instance, is rife with fantasy elements.

    Robert Englund as Freddy Krueger in A Nightmare on Elm Street, perhaps the ultimate modern fairy tale.

  • The best horror stories are grown from the fairy tale concept of predators masking as safe authority figures who lure heroes into traps. Magical setups, moralistic endings, corruption of innocence, tests of character and strength. This page offers a brief, beautifully drawn presentation of A Nightmare on Elm Street as a dark modern fairy tale “where the enchanted forest is filled with cul de sacs and the gingerbread house looks like a boiler room.” Freddy Kruger haunts children in their dreams, for crying out loud! That’s as fairy tale as it gets.

  • The horror genre has given us many brilliant fairy tale characters, including Frankenstein and Dracula. They’re right at home within this theme. And following the vampire theme, True Blood, Dark Shadows, and the Buffy-verse (The Gentlemen!) fit as well.

  • There are, um, many adult possibilities for Pinocchio. (And remember, the Disney version also includes the wicked fox, the Blue Fairy, and Stromboli.)

  • Look to Shakespeare! A Midsummer Night’s Dream is a wonderful fairy tale everyone knows.

  • Doctor Who cosplayers! Come on down!

  • Think of fantasy-related children’s series from the last few decades. My Little Pony, Mighty Max, Care Bears (bonus points if your group has a Mr. Coldheart!), The Smurfs, Sailor Moon, He-Man and She-Ra… Slutty Rainbow Brite and Strawberry Shortcake costumes are always popular this time of year. Here’s another occasion to wiggle into them!

  • A big-screen adaptation of Stephen Sondheim’s fairy tale musical, Into the Woods, is currently in production starring folks like Meryl Streep, Chris Pine, Johnny Depp, Anna Kendrick, Tracy Ullman, and Emily Blunt in an epic story that weaves together the sagas of Cinderella, Rapunzel, Jack the giant killer, Little Red Riding Hood, and many more. Look to that for inspiration.

  • Think about the video games you’ve played. The Legend of Zelda, Super Mario Bros., the Final Fantasy series.

    Masquerage ’13: The geeks ARE the cool kids.

  • British author Roald Dahl wrote some fun, innovative stories that have been enjoyed for generations, including Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, James and the Giant Peach, and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. 2013 will prove a disappointing Masquerage indeed without an Oompa Loompa sighting.

  • Sci-fi and fantasy geeks unite! The hallowed halls of Hogwarts, the ethereal Kingdom of Narnia, and the shadowy forests of Middle Earth shall be made one at Masquerage. (And it would just be so friggin’ cool to see a really well done team of Dementors…)

  • And finally, if you are thinking of Disney films, don’t forget the supporting characters. The three fairy godmothers from Sleeping Beauty, the mice from Cinderella, the Siamese cats from Lady and the Tramp, the Seven Dwarves, the Magic Mirror.

That’s an awful lot to digest at once, but it’s a great reminder that there are literally thousands of choices under the umbrella of this year’s theme. There’s also no shame in picking a popular, classic fairy tale character — it’s all about adding a personal touch and bringing your individual style into the costume. Putting a new twist on a famous character is a great way to stand out. What would your favorite Disney princess or villain look like in the modern world? As a zombie? In a steampunk setting? As a human/animal hybrid? In a horror setting? Last year’s “Villains and Vixens” Masquerage had no less than a dozen attendees in costume as The Joker (myself included), and each one differed wildly from the next.  Find the character that’s best for you, then make it your own. And, most important of all, have fun doing it!

As an added bonus, ticket buyers will find a 20% discount coupon for Halloween Express, on the back of their tickets.  As one of Masquerage’s newest sponsors, this year round costume shop which  recently opened on St Rt 741, north of the Dayton Mall, across from Applebees, understands the spirit of the event and will be happy to help you pull together your dream costume.

For more Masquerage inspiration follow them on Facebook and on twitter.com/ARC_Masquerage.

Rock musical “Hair” Ticket GiveAway

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hairLong-haired, bell-bottom wearing hippies might seem out of place now, but the musical “Hair: The American Tribal Love-Rock Musical” is as relevant today as it was 45 years ago when it debuted and changed the face of Broadway.

The musical’s message of love and peace helps bring people together in a time of turmoil.

Edge of the Creek Productions will present “Hair” during the weekends of September 13 and September 22 at the Beavercreek Community Theatre (BCT). Tickets are available at www.bctheatre.org, or by calling the box office at 429-4737.

Director Doug Lloyd, who directed the show six years ago at The Dayton Playhouse, jumped at the chance to direct it again at BCT.

“Everybody loves the show. I love the show. I remember that time so well because I lived through it. I love the music because it was the music of my youth,” Lloyd said. “I love the message of the show—peace, love, harmony and acceptance of one another.”

Watching the cast bring “Hair” to life is one of the joys of directing, said Lloyd.

“I love to watch it come together—a group of people coming together and becoming a tribe—you just can’t do this show without it changing you,” Lloyd said.

The cast of 22, includes people both familiar and new to the BCT stage:

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Edge of the Creek Productions will present the rock musical, “Hair: The American Tribal Love-Rock Musical” during the weekends of September 13 and September 22 at the Beavercreek Community Theatre (BCT). Pictured from left to right are cast members: Jamal Cann as Hud; Tyler Haney as George Berger; Bobby Mitchum as Claude Bukowski; Danielle Kubasky as Sheila Franklin; and Jordan DuVall as Woof. Tickets are available at www.bctheatre.org, or by calling the box office at 429-4737. Photo by Director Doug Lloyd.

Aaron Brewer, Fairborn – Steve/Margret Mead

Marcus Bedinger, Trotwood – Hiram/Soloist

Jamal Cann, Miamisburg — Hud

Suzanne Clabaugh, Dayton – Suzannah/Hubert

Kevin Craig, Lebanon – Walter/Monk

Kaleigh-Brooke Dillingham, Beavercreek – Jeannie/Monk

Jordan DuVall, Dayton — Woof

Tyler Haney, Dayton – George Berger

Tierra Isaac, Fairborn — Ronnie

Lynn Kesson, Dayton – Leatta/Blackboys Trio/I Believe Trio

Danielle Kubasky, Beavercreek — Sheila Franklin

Bobby Mitchum, Dayton – Claude Bukowski

Brett Norgaard, Centerville — Paul

Bryan Peak, Dayton – Mark

Hayley Penchoff, Dayton – Chrissy/Air backup

Stephanie Radford, Beavercreek – Dionne/Abe Lincoln/White Boys Trio

Chris Sains, Fairborn — Tuck

Vicki Sanders-Johnson, Beavercreek – Emmaretta/Nun

T.C. Schreier, West Carrolton — Thomas

Crystal Schultz, Beavercreek — Diane

Lindsay Sherman, Dayton – Lindsay/Black Boys Trio/Nun

Amber Todd, Beavercreek, — Mary

Stacy Gear is the choreographer; Lindsay Sherman is the music director; Kathleen Carroll is the costumer; and John Falkenbach is the lighting director.

“Hair” was the first rock musical, and it broke many taboos in theatre, according to Lloyd.

The show contains adult language, sexual innuendo and a very brief nude scene at the end of the first act. Parental discretion is advised.

“Any community might have people who have a problem with it, but our season ticket holders and our supporters are open-minded and supportive, and they will appreciate the show for what it is and its message,” Lloyd said.

Although Lloyd is thrilled with the cast’s progress, “Hair” does present some challenges like creating an authentic wardrobe complete with wigs, perfecting demanding dance numbers and studying the 60s.

“It’s a heavy music and dance show; there’s a lot of dance to learn. Most of the cast is not in the know of the 60s so they are learning about the era and doing a lot of research,” Lloyd said. “The cast is grasping their characters quite well, and have molded themselves into a tribe. I’m very happy with how things are going.”

DMM has 3 pairs of tickets to give away to our readers. Just like this post, comment below on why you should win and fill out the entry form to be eligible for a pair of tickets.  Winner will be announced Wed, Sept 5th.

 

UPDATE:

Our contest in now over and our winners are:

Amy Feltner from Huber Heights

Sunni Russo from Miamisburg
Pavan Mediratta from Bellbrook

 

 

Homefull Set To Celebrate 25 Years With Gala Event

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255244_370683496331568_937263193_nToday two young children will be playing with their toys on their living room floor.  Their favorite cartoon will be streaming through the television.  The kids are laughing and sharing their toys with one another.  Later, they will go outside and run around the yard, letting their imaginations running as wild as free as any child’s mind should.  Their lives are completely free from any cares in the world.

Meanwhile, the parents of those same children are experiencing a different situation.  They just received a letter on their front door.  They have just two days to pack up all their belongings and leave their home.  A home that they have worked to build to provide those children playing outside a safe haven.  A home that has collected memories that would last a lifetime.  In a moment’s notice-it’s all gone.  The parents haven’t been able to pay rent in the recent months leading up to this day.  Both have been barely been able to keep food on the table.  They have had to make some difficult decisions.  Can they afford to pay the power bill?!  If so, what bill will they not pay?!  Is the gas bill going to be payed?!  How our they both going to get to work, because they aren’t able to afford to fill up their vehicles.  For many, including in the city of Dayton, these are everyday questions.  The uncertainty of everyday living is more stressful than most could ever imagine.  Luckily, there is support for those individuals who need it when the worst circumstances occur, like getting the evection notice on the door, or if some of the household bills need to be taken care of.   The support is called Homefull.

Homefull, located at Edwin C. Moses Blvd in Dayton, is a nonprofit organization that is working to end homelessness for people mentioned earlier by providing housing, services, advocacy and education.  Formally called The Other Place, Homefull is celebrating their 25th anniversary this year.  To honor the milestone, the 25th Anniversary Gala will be transpiring on September 19th at the Dayton Art Institute.

Homefull opened their doors to help those in need in 1988 at the Christ Episcopal Church in town.  Soon after opening, the organization started to slowly build their shelters to what they are today.  One thing has always been the same-to be the support for people who are or about to experience homelessness.  The group feverishly works to educate the community about how homelessness happens and what can be done to prevent it.  Homefull also works to help provide individuals who are struggling direct services, such as helping them find housing, paying bills and the mortgage by offering assistance.  By doing this, Homefull gives guidance to these folks by enrolling them in programs to get them back on their feet.  The programs include learning how to budget what you have money wise, providing job development, among others.  Homefull have this for their yearly goal:

  • 800 men, women, & children housed
  • 500 dedicated volunteers helping in their organization
  • 100 corporate partners being part of the organization
  • Accumulate $250,000 in financial support

The 25th Anniversary Gala being held at the Dayton Art Institute is going to be an evening that will be simply magical as the museum will provide the perfect backdrop for the event.  The evening’s mission will be asking one question-what will be possible?  To explore that question, chorographer Rodney Veal will be presenting a mind-blowing musical/theatre/dance/visual show that will have the attendees be blown away.  Veal’s astounding vision includes presenting a gown that will be completely made out of recycled newspapers.  Another featured outfit will have LED lights hanging over the gown.  These are just a few things that will be presented as you head to the dinner.  While enjoying your dinner you will be hearing great music from local musician Danny Voris along with a special treat that will surely make your evening.  Local artwork will be part of the silent auction.  Artists such as Amy Kollar Anderson, Erin Holscher Almazan, Mark Echtner, William Jones, Nick Stamas are just a few that will artwork presented, expanding the boundaries of elements from all angles that truly explore what is possible.

September 19th promises to be an evening that will show all who attend what is truly important-Homefull is doing extraordinary things in the fight against homelessness.  The volunteers that are part of the organization express how much of a joy it is to help their fellow neighbors who are of in need.   Last year, Homefull helped over 3500 people.  More recent success includes more than 400 units are available for supportive housing and chronic homelessness is down by 65%.  However, they are more than 1000 men and women a night aren’t able to be so fortunate.  By attending the Gala at Dayton Art Institute, you will be doing your part to help the cause.  To ensure seating, Homefull said that would like attendees to RSVP as soon as possible, but no later than September 3rd.

To register to attend, visit homefull.org, or call (937) 293-1945.

Little Art Renovations Nearly Done – Grand Reopening is September 28!

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969633_10151782173434233_1103500819_nAs we near the end of the renovation of the Little Art and prepare to reopen, I wanted to fill you in on what’s been going on and will be happening. It’s been quite a journey and we’re thrilled with the results. We can’t wait to be back up and running with our beautiful, comfortable, state-of-the-art Little Art that also now meets all ADA standards.

 

Before we closed to renovate, a professional photographer took many “before” photos of the theatre for us and we have taken hundreds of photos throughout the renovation. You can see many of them posted on our website and Facebook page, and we hope you have enjoyed our clever marquee movie titles each week. Thank you one and all for your great suggestions—it’s been so much fun!

 

We have a lot of work to do before we reopen. It’ll be a big job just moving back in, getting organized, and then learning to use the new equipment and technology, including our new digital projector (which I keep accidentally calling our “big new computer”).

The following

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Our Grand Opening Celebration will be Saturday, September 28th from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., so mark your calendars! I’ll be writing again soon with more details about this event.

 

After a summer of movie fasting, we’re craving a film FEASTival! On Sunday, September 29th we will begin a 12-day festival, featuring a number of films you may have missed this summer plus a few classics and something for the whole family. Keep an eye out for the schedule—you won’t want to miss a single film in the lineup.

 

We’ve appreciated hearing how much you’ve missed us, and we’ve missed you, too. On Friday, October 11th we will resume our regular programming and you will have your Little Art Theatre back, better than ever!

 

The above written by Jenny Cowperthwaite, Executive Director, Little Art Theatre

Step back in time over 400 years at the Ohio Renaissance Festival **Ticket Contest**

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logoLive the legend in this authentically recreated 30-acre, 16th-century English village. Rub elbows with nobility and be entertained by hundreds of costumed performers in nearly 100 shows each day. Cheer your favorite knight to victory as he competes for the queen’s honor in the thrilling full-armored joust. The lanes are bustling with storytellers, strolling musicians, singers, dancers and villagers welcoming you to a festive day of living history. Feast like royalty on juicy roasted turkey legs, fresh-baked bread bowl stews, fish ‘n chips, steak-on-a-stake, and a variety of the finest beers and wines. The sprawling landscape is dotted with 12 stages and a unique open-air shopper’s marketplace with more than 130 merchants and demonstrating craftsmen. The many one-of-a-kind hand-crafted items make this a perfect place to shop for holiday gifts. Visitors of all ages will be amused by the games of skill and human-powered rides. Try your hand at archery and see if you’re a modern-day Robin Hood, or climb the castle tower and rescue the lovely damsel in distress.[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O9rit-SRJk4′]

New this year!

Five pirate captains are competing for the ship and a Letter of Mark from Her Majesty but shhh! The Spanish cannot find out! Find out how the story unfolds as swords, rope swings, gunfire and comedy burst from the decks of the 65-foot pirate ship during the Pirate Comedy Stunt Show.

 Robyn Marks will amaze you with his cabinet magic tricks.

The Tartan Terrors are making special appearances for Irish and Highland Weekends. They will leave you in stitches with their unique blend of Celtic music a

Opening for the season  this Saturday,  Labor Day Weekend  has been deemed  Family & Friends Weekend.  Load up the car and bring the whole neighborhood! Adults are two for the price of one AND all kids 12 and under get in free! Request “two for one” at the Box Office to receive Royal savings Saturday, Sunday, and Labor Day!  Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children 5-12 years old.  You can also purchase a season pass for $100. The festival is open weekend through October 20th.  Check their website for more info or to purchase tickets online.

DaytonMostMetro is giving away a family four pack of tickets to one lucky winner who fills out the registration below.  For additional chances to win, please tell us in the comments below why you should win tickets!

The contest if over and congratulations to Laura Thornhill, our winner!

 

 

Miamisburg River Blast Ends With Fireworks

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jftw4zks77vuojwnl0dw4sjef6qzisosOn August 31, 2013, the Saturday of Labor Day weekend, Farmers & Merchants Bank in partnership with the City of Miamisburg will be hosting the second annual River Blast. Shon Myers, President and CEO of Farmers & Merchants Bank, says “we are very excited to bring River Blast to the downtown region. It is designed to be a great free event for everyone in the communities we serve to bring out their family and friends.”

River Blast will feature two live bands and lots of other entertainment leading up to the fireworks display. The bands will start at 4:00 with White Rabbit playing classic rock, blues, and today’s hits and then at 6:00 Groove Doctor will take the stage with cover hits from the 60’s to today. There will be a variety of other entertainment for the kids throughout, t-shirt giveaways, and an unforgettable fireworks show at 9:05 to top it all off. The event will take place in Riverfront Park in downtown Miamisburg. As the sun sets, the firework show will begin over the Great Miami River.

This is a family friendly event designed to entertain every age all evening. The kid’s area will have a giant tent that will house puppet shows, spin art, face painting, and caricatures. Outside of the tent will be a variety inflatable’s for kids of all ages. All of these activities are FREE so come out early to have time to enjoy them all.

To help this event to continue to grow several Co-Sponsors have joined Farmers & Merchants Bank and the City of Miamisburg. This year’s Co-Sponsors include the following: ABC22 / Fox 45, B&B Riverfront Hall, Carillon Group of Raymond James, Masters & Associates Insurance, Mel Rutherford Re/Max Victory, and the Miamisburg Merchants Association. The sponsors will have booths for you to stop by and visit to learn more about each of their businesses and take home some free giveaways.

Midwest Tandem Rally Returns to Miami Valley

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mtr The 38th Annual Midwest Tandem Rally, a cycling event for tandem bicyclists, returns to the Miami Valley this Labor Day weekend for the first time since 2003. Approximately 350 tandem teams will descend upon Greene County and ride between 60 and 200 miles during the two organized rides.

 

“Working with the Midwest Tandem Rally organizers for the last two years has been wonderful. The planners and participants alike are passionate cyclists and just the type of people we want to attract for return visits to ride our one-of-a-kind trail network.” said Kathleen Young, Executive Director of the Greene County Convention & Visitor’s Bureau.

 

The 2013 Midwest Tandem Rally is being hosted by the Greater Ohio Area Tandem Society (G.O.A.T.S.) with support from the Greene County Convention & Visitors Bureau. The rally attracts participants not just from the Midwest, but from all over the United States and even into Canada. Many riders take the opportunity to extend their stay by a few days to fully experience all the area has to offer. The organized rides on Saturday and Sunday will utilize mostly rural roads throughout Greene County but many teams will also take advantage of the trail network during their stay.

 

Organizers urge all motorists to make themselves of their surroundings and allow plenty of room when sharing the road with cyclists.

 

Pam Kulhanek, GOATS Midwest Tandem Rally Director, says “Local tandem teams that it is not too late to register for the event. The ride is a great opportunity to experience the Midwest Tandem Rally close to home.  It is so much fun to meet and ride with people from all over the country and all walks of life who enjoy riding tandem.  By the end of the weekend, you will be looking forward to next year and meeting up with all of the friends you have met.”

 

The Greene County Convention & Visitors Bureau estimates the economic impact of the rally at between $500,000 and $750,000. Hotels, restaurants, gas stations and Wright State University all directly benefit from the event.

 

Michael Miraglia, General Manager of the Holiday Inn in Fairborn had this to say about the Midwest Tandem Rally: “We are very excited to be hosting the MTR. Events this size don’t come around often and the fact that they have chosen Greene County and the Holiday Inn Dayton Fairborn is very gratifying. We are eagerly awaiting the event and we anticipate an incredible weekend.”

 

For additional information on the 2013 Midwest Tandem Rally, contact Pam Kulhanek at 937-287-7801. More information is available at http://mtr2013.org/

 

 

Join The Century Bar For A Nationwide Toast

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FRB-coaster-never-wantA special event will take place at the Century Bar (10 S. Jefferson St., Dayton) on Wednesday, August 28. At 7:30 p.m., the bar and its patrons will take part in a national “simul-toast” along with each of the nation’s top 55 Bourbon bars as designated by The Bourbon Review.

Each year for the last five years, the leading industry journal for bourbon aficionados has created its grouping of the United States’ best watering holes for Bourbon lovers, and on 2013’s list, TBR referred to Century as “what could be the most underrated Bourbon bar in the country,” and “the sort of place every Bourbon drinker should visit at least once in his or her life.”

The Bourbon Review has teamed up with Four Roses Bourbon for a nationwide “toast” to each of the bars included on their list. This coincides with Four Roses’ 125th anniversary, for which the label has dubbed 2013 “The Year of the Toast” with a national social media campaign.

Century general manager and bartender Joseph Head said, “We’re going to film the toast and put it online, and we’ll send it to Four Roses so they can put it out there as well. And Four Roses is appreciated in America, but it’s really huge in Europe and Japan, so the whole world’s going to see Dayton, Ohio.”

Participating patrons are encouraged to get involved by posting photos, tags, toasts, and check-ins from their favorite Bourbon bars on the Top 55 list with the hashtag #55toast; the toast selected by Four Roses as the best will be featured on their label in 2014.

 

Hog Jam VIII: Another Fun Weekend of Camping and Music

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Eight years ago, Tony Herdman was in a band that was part of the Dayton Battle of the Bands, which was taking place at Canal Street Tavern.  The competition ran throughout the summer, with numerous bands duking it out to win time to record in a local studio.  Herdman’s band reached the finals, but unfortunately losing.  Even though they lost, Herdman noticed the overwhelming support and love from family, friends, and fans of his band.  To show how much he appreciated seeing everyone coming out, he wanted to give back and throw a party for everyone.  So he found a location in Waynesville, and thus began the yearly event Hog Jam.   “We wanted to throw this party for everyone that came out and supported us throughout the summer”, Herdman explains.  “So, we roasted a pig, played some music, and had one of the best times of our lives.  We had a lot of people afterwards mention that we should do it again.”

Throughout the years since the first Hog Jam, Herdman has constantly tried to make the weekend bigger and better this than the previous.  This year, Herdman has enlisted another festival organizer and friend Jim Hamden to help make the eighth installment the best one to date.  “We both work so well together, even though we are completely different people”, said Herdman.  “I am just thrilled that we are actually doing this together, and plan on working together for a long time to come.”

The weekend will also be showcasing artists and bands from all ranges of genres and from the United States.  Some of the bands that will be performing include the local funk/rock fellas over at Magic Jackson to the Dayton version of Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros, Emily and the Lost Cat Ramblers to the rich folk sound of Charlie Tipton Band to Herdman himself.  The music will be giving the festivals goers plenty of great music from the beginning of the afternoon to the wee hours at night.

Attendees will be able to camp out and hang out all weekend long.  Vendors will be also there for everyone to grab food.  Speaking of food, the roasting of the pig will be still take place.  And this year’s pig isn’t for the faint of heart.  “It’s going to be a 300 pound pig”, said Herdman.  Yep-300 pounds.  This year’s festival, like the ones before, will surely have everyone planning on attending next year.  “We have folks that come to me and tell that they plan on coming for the next year as soon as the event is done on Sunday (laughing)”, Herdman said.

As the end nears at each year’s festival, Herdman shared with me a tradition that he holds dear to him.  “Each year, I gather around some of family and friends, grab a shot of whiskey, bow my head down and say ‘here’s to another great year!”

Hog Jam 8 will be located this year at VFW Campgrounds on 8718 Claude-Thomas Road in Franklin, Ohio.  The event will be a two-day festival that will have two stages with 17 artists and bands for to play.  Tickets at the gates for the weekend are $35.  For more info, click on the Facebook page, located here.

 

Good English: Trio Riding The ‘Wire’ With New LP

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(Photo Courtesy-Brian Glass)

You know the expression-blood is thicker than water.  It’s a statement that is no truer when it comes to family.  Family is unbreakable.  Sure, you can get annoyed with them when they do something stupid.  Its family-you can’t be annoyed for long.  They are always going to be there for you.  Part of being in a band, you are in a family.  You have each and every one of the members of the group’s best interest far more than most.  You can have a disagreement, and minutes later hug it out.  The band Good English is no exception.  Good English comprises of sisters Elizabeth, Celia, and Leslie Rasmussen.  Elizabeth is the lead vocalist, and plays guitar, Celia is on bass and Leslie on drums.  The band is set to drop their first full-length album Radio Wires on Tuesday, August 27.  This Saturday, Good English will be throwing a CD release party at Blind Bob’s fifth anniversary weekend.

Good English got their start when the ladies were still children.  Elizabeth began to start getting interested in learning how to play the guitar and singing while she was in the eighth grade.  Celia had to choose between being in choir and being in the orchestra in elementary school.  She decided that she would be in the orchestra and started playing the cello.  The other sibling, Leslie, was banging away on the snare drum.  Their parents would soon after give them newer instruments.  Leslie replaced her snare with a drum kit, while Celia obtained the bass.  “The cello and the bass are pretty similar as most people know”, Celia explained.  “So my folks said give the bass a try.  If I didn’t like it-no biggie.”  The ladies began work on learning their new instruments and started playing.  “Our first song we wanted to learn was ‘Warning’ from Green Day”, added Elizabeth.  “We were big fans of Green Day and we wanted to learn their songs.”

To help gain a little more knowledge on playing their guitars and drums, the girls signed themselves up for Hauer’s Music Band Camp around 2008.  At the camp, they learned how to polish up their play and also had the experience to perform live at the legendary local music venue Canal Street Tavern.  The chance to play at Canal Street would be beneficial to the group as they started embarking on playing more and more live after the camp.  Good English added another member to their group and would start to perform at other local venues, with doing shows that were for all ages.  Still very young, the adolescents played as if they have been playing for many, many years.

In 2011, Good English felt they had enough good material and wanted to record their first songs.  The band packed their instruments and drove down to Nashville.  There, they recorded at Reel Love Recording Company.  The owner of the recording company is Dayton’s own Patrick Himes.  Himes produced an outstanding six track EP titled Take Control.  The opening track ‘Hollow Sound’ starts off with twang piano play and then takes a backseat while the guitar riffs.  The title song of the album ‘Take Control’ features a slick indie sound, with Celia’s bass line popping out.  Himes clearly saw what the band’s individuals bring to the table, and highlighted them all in each song.  The music leaps round from all different sounds.  You can hear the indie rock in one song, followed by some blues in another.  The band takes pride in the fact that they don’t have a specific style.  They love exploring all the different styles, and putting their own spins to it.  The result is a stylish rocking opus.

With Take Control released for the masses, Good English proceeded to play local gigs at the local taverns, and festivals.   One of the big breaks that the band has received to date was being part of the local acts that were able to play at last year’s Downtown Dayton Revival Festival.

Earlier this year, Good English went back to Nashville to work Himes again to work on the follow-up of Take Control.  They went down on back to back weekends, with the first weekend setting down the drums and the next weekend laying the vocals and guitar.  “I was really great to get away and work with Patrick again”, Elizabeth said.  “We know that wouldn’t have too many distractions and we could keep our focus on the music.”  The band would work throughout the weekend, bunkering down in the studio for 12 hour days.  Still, the experience of working with Himes, and laying down new music helped the band continue to march on.

Radio Wires promises to show Good English’s growth since the first EP was released.  The instrumental play is powerful and gritty, and is the main focal point in the trio’s mind.  The lyrics are open to interpretation for the listener, which always gives each song freshness.  “We want to have our songs to be like a story that involves characters”, Elizabeth says.  One thing is for sure-audiences and their fans will not be putting down their story anytime in the near future.

Radio Wires will be released on Tuesday, August 27th.  This Saturday, come celebrate the band’s album with their CD release party at Blind Bob’s.  Showtime is around 9pm.  For more info, click on the band’s website goodenglishband.com.

For those who want a taste of the band, click out the video below.  The song is off their EP, Take Control.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FoYiMn_oGZU’]

Urban Loft Could Be Your New Home

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loftsHave you ever thought about moving downtown Dayton?  The Sixth Street Lofts will bring 17 new residential units to the historical Oregon District and within walking distance to restaurants, the Dayton Dragons and the 2nd Street Market. The condos are sized from 900 to 1,500 square feet of living area and are priced at $125,000  on the first floor, with the priciest units going for around $225,000 on the third floor.    The condo development is complete new construction housed inside a nearly 100 year old building.   

This new development in the rennovated historical Excelsior Building offers two-bedroom, single-floor, loft-style units with exposed 11 -13 foot ceilings and poured concrete columns, energy-efficient windows and furnaces, available basement parking.   There will be passenger and freight elevators, as

541049_12well as off-street and even an amazing rooftop gathering area with wet bar and restroom. Corner units will have 180-degree views of the Oregon District.

The  building will be completely secure with cameras at the front door and an amazing roof top patio with wet bar and restroom.   Standard features  in each unit include granite in kitchens and baths with ceramic tile in the kitchens and baths, including tub surrounds.

 

541049_09With an estimated completion date of September 2013, there are still 7 units available  for purchase and all buyers will enjoy a 10 year tax abatement from the date the first unit is occupied. Realtor Denise Swick shares that a pair of the two bedroom units are eligible for $15,000 downpayment assistance program through Citywide Development, based on household income.

To arrange a tour you can contact Denise Swick at  937-432-2644.

 

 

County to Host Tire BuyBack

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Tires.previewOn September 21, Montgomery County Environmental Services will host a tire buyback event. Residents can earn $2 for every scrap/used tire they bring, up to a maximum of 10 tires per vehicle. All tires brought to the buyback event will be recycled.

Scrap tires can create health and safety hazards, pollute the environment, and become neighborhood eyesores if they are not properly stored or discarded. “Montgomery County and other jurisdictions invest a lot of time and resources into cleaning up illegal dumping sites and scrap tires,” said Montgomery County Commission President Dan Foley. “With this event, we encourage citizens to pick up tires from dump sites or bring in their own used tires to be recycled, which will reduce the cost of cleaning up dump sites now and in the future.”

Montgomery County Tire Buyback
Welcome Stadium, Parking Lot D
1801 Edwin C. Moses Blvd.
Dayton, OH 45417

Saturday, September 21, 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

This event is open to all Montgomery County residents, and identification will be required to confirm residency. Participants will be paid $2 per tire in cash, up to a maximum of 10 tires per vehicle. Only passenger vehicle tires will be accepted. (Please note that hauling more than 10 tires at a time without an appropriate state registration is a felony.)

About Montgomery County Environmental Services
Montgomery County Environmental Services provides solid waste, recycling, drinking water, and water reclamation services to the citizens of Montgomery County. The department also offers educational outreach to local schools, communities, and businesses that want to learn more about conservation and sustainability in the Miami Valley region.