Joshua Stucky

DOG Days of Summer!

June 27, 2016 By Joshua Stucky

It seems as if everyone has a pup these days. Fortunately, Dayton is becoming more and more dog-friendly every day. Looking for a perfect place to put your pup on a patio? Here are some great suggestions, including some from our friends at SICSA!
Get yourself started with a coffee from Ghostlight! This favorite of the coffee scene has perfect cafe style umbrellaed tables just outside. While you get your caffeine intake, Rover can take in the sights along Wayne Avenue! (Wayne Avenue at Clover Street)

If you find yourself in the Oregon on a long walk with Fido, check out the patio at Lily’s Bistro. Lily’s is a huge supporter of all things pet. As an ardent fan of SICSA, and other area shelters, Lily’s welcomes all four-legged friends to their nicely shaded patio, as long as the pooch is a sweet one! (5th Street, Oregon District)
After a lovely lunch at Lily’s, it’s time for a brew at Toxic! Specializing in craft beers, Toxic has the perfect spot for Spot to rest on their covered patio. Check out their great beers while Spot snoozes soundly! (5th Street, Oregon District)
Maybe you are closer to the University on your walk with Millie. If so, Milano’s has long been a favorite of the canine kind with a sizable patio, and water for your floppy eared friend. Serving up their iconic menu, Milano’s loves to see the ‘whole family’ on the patio. (Brown Street)

While you are enjoying Brown Street, walk up to Saxby’s coffee, which not only encourages doggies, they have a tie up area and water bowls to keep the babies hydrated. Saxby’s even gives your pup a treat when walking or driving through their window! (Brown Street at Irving)
Need an ice cream fix? Three of Dayton’s favorites allow pups on the patio. Take Patch to Graeter’s, Ben and Jerry’s or Ritter’s! Check their websites for special ‘Dogs Nights’ and other treats that are bark-a-licious! (Various Locations)

Out of the city? Venture to Centerville, enjoy one of their dog-friendly parks and then sit and enjoy lunch at Archer’s. ‘We’ve never said no to dogs,’ and Archer’s has a perfect menu for the family. Great patio, and huge fans of beagles, boxers and all things that bark! (Dayton-Lebanon Pike)

Also in Centerville, there is the Flavors restaurant. The healthy cuisine is the perfect match for well-mannered leashed dogs at their outside tables. Share a smoothie with Sadie! (Franklin Street, Centerville) and for those of you who just can’t miss a day without getting your mutt a TimBit, Tim Horton’s has long been a favorite of Fluffy. Their cafes have patios for puppies and the perfect sized donut for your dog! (Various Locations)
Dayton really has gone to the dogs!!

Let’s Be STRAIGHT, GAY Pride is for EVERYONE!

June 1, 2016 By Joshua Stucky

Time to dust off the gowns, primp the wigs and don a smile, Gay PRIDE in Dayton is here. This year, our little town has upped the gay agenda, and created a full plate of fun, frivolity and freedom. It is the latter that really matters, and the reason we ALL should celebrate…even YOU! At the core of Gay PRIDE lies the American battle-cry, “And Justice For All.” Although what you might see on the streets is at times a bit confusing, the mission isn’t. Gay PRIDE celebrates self-expression, personal freedom and a great victory over discrimination.

You should attend and join the hijinks. Consider this, the gay culture has had an unusual set of struggles in its quest for equality. Living a ‘closeted’ life was the expectation in the early 70’s. Of course, that changed with the ‘shotglass heard round the world,’ kicking off a series of acts of resistance. Coming out of the closet, along with the beads, bangles and bustiers told the world “I can look and be whatever the hell I want to be.” Through a strong sense of irreverence and a great deal of self-expression, the drag culture began its symbolic rise in the gay community. This year, Dayton’s own RubiGirls will be the headliners on Friday evening, representing the silliness and the sincerity of helping others through humor. Their show will take place at Courthouse Square around 8:00pm on Friday, June 3rd. The Dayton Gay Men’s Chorus start things off around 6:00pm. AND DON’T MISS this 0.5 mile…..yes 0.5K bar crawl in Dayton’s historic ‘Froot Loop’ a collection of Dayton’s Best Gay and Gay friendly Bars!

You should care and support the community. Think about this, in the late 60’s LGBT Americans were not allowed to congregate for fear of what might happen. This week, you will see LGBT citizens and their supporters not only congregating but marching together to tell the world, ‘We are better together than apart!’ The annual parade steps off at noon from Cooper Park, with Grand Marshall Phil Wise, who was part of the start of the LGBT Center 40 years ago, and ends at Courthouse Square, where the crowds wait anxiously for the festivities to begin! Before the parade, make sure you get breakfast at MJ’s Cafe on Jefferson around 9am. New this year will be an area called ‘Rainbow Land,’ and a car show for motor enthusiasts.

You should celebrate and be entertained! Keep in mind, although gay marriage is now legal in the USA, much remains to be done. The game is not over, and the race to equality is not complete. Sunday, June 5th, our beloved PFLAG chapter is sponsoring a 5k PRIDE run at Welcome Park behind Welcome Stadium. The run/walk begins at 10am. It doesn’t end there, as the first-ever “Spike and Heels” round robin kickball tournament takes place, featuring beer and food trucks! This event is also at Welcome Park.

YOU ARE US! Gay PRIDE is now steep in history, and part of the American landscape. Nearly all major cities in the United States block off streets, line the sidewalks and join the victory lap of Gay Americans. Side by side, we are all in this together. Discrimination loses yet again and harmony takes its place on the proverbial stage!

Someday, another group will need our help in breaking down barriers, achieving protection, and opening minds. When that day comes, I’m sure we will see each other….at their parade!

For more information about PRIDE WEEK visit

DaytonLGBTCenter.org

City, City, Bang! Bang! Dayton’s Amazing Recovery!

April 13, 2016 By Joshua Stucky

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For so many Daytonians, a dream is being realized…a vital, vibrant and vivid city! The amazing turnaround is all most too much to believe, but cities everywhere are taking notice. “You have to go back to the 90’s and the formation of the Downtown Dayton Partnership to really see a beginning in all of this,” says Mayor Nan Whaley, beaming as she speaks of the turnaround town. “Their vision along with 2010 Greater Downtown Plan really got things rolling.” The plan was set up to make Dayton a LWP (live.work.play.) city. “I feel that people are discovering that Dayton is a authentic town, a genuine place where people are now believing in their city. We came off of 10 truly rough years, and we have developed a plan to maintain growth for the next 20. Through this vision, and a hard-working city commission, we have seen a boost in small business and housing.”

Housing is what so many Daytonians are impressed by. Builders are finding it hard to keep up with demand. You cannot visit downtown without seeing new housing, apartments, and lofts. “Our Water Street project is the fastest leasing project we have ever had.” said Jamie Moore of Crawford-Hoying Development. “Dayton is alive and on-fire!” And the developer said, ‘there is more to come…’ but remained hush-hush about details. “It’s exciting, really exciting!” he teased.

What are other Daytonians hoping for? “People want shopping, a grocery, and more local restaurants.” Whaley added, “As people move downtown, the demand increases and businesses follow. The Dragons Ballpark was instrumental in the riverfront growth. So many people investing in the community over time has paid off. It caused the city to get more aggressive about customer service and communication. The city’s reputation has been buoyed by the change in the level of services.”

Looking around you see what the mayor speaks about. Just about every month, new businesses are making their mark downtown. Restaurants like Arepas and Corner Kitchen; breweries like Dayton Beer Company and Barrel House; and shopping like Confetti and Eclectic Essentials now dot the urban landscape. Services are on the rise as well. “The Cannery will be at retail capacity for the first time in it’s history.” says Chrissie Jacobs, the leasing agent for the project. “Our property will play host to yoga, video production, printing services, a florist, a theatrical company, a photographer and a salon.” Great news for the newcomers to the city. “Our residential component is at 97% as well.”

Mayor Whaley sees a strong, successful future. “We have changed out tune from ‘we can’t do anything about it’ to ‘let’s get these problems fixed and continue to improve our city.” What does she see in the near future? “The kayak park is a game-changer. Having more recreation on-and-around the river benefits everyone. The talk of a resurrected Arcade has people so excited, and we are all cautiously optimistic, but that process will be slow and phased in as developers see fit. Of course, the housing boom will continue with more retail on ground floors and residents living in all kinds of unique living spaces.”

Perception has definitely changed. “Real estate downtown is red-hot.” Says Denise Swick, local realty expert. “People are buying properties in the city at a maddening pace. It’s hard to find real estate for buyers, a great problem to have!” Swick says it renews a faith in downtown living.

In all of this, probably most important is the pride Daytonians are gaining. “Citizens are betting on their city for the first time in a long time, ” says the Mayor. “They love Dayton, and Dayton Pride is alive and well!” You can truly feel the pride, the joy and excitement. Downtown Dayton….city, city BANG! BANG!

Water, Water Everywhere….And Your Ticket To Protect It!

April 7, 2016 By Joshua Stucky

It’s Earth Month, and Square One Salon is working hard to take care of it. Along with the members of the Ohio Chapter of the Water Committee of Sierra Club and supporters from across the state, the salons in the Dayton area are doing their part to protect our water supply. “We partner with the Sierra Club and Aveda every year to support clean water.” says Nina Dozier, manager of the downtown Square One location. “Our goal this year is $5000, which goes up slightly every year. So far, we have $3745.”

How can you get involved?

“We are having a raffle this year, and you have a chance to win $1000 which is divided $500 in Aveda products, and a $500 gift card for 1st place! We also have 2nd and 3rd place winners, $750.00 and $500.00 prizes, respectively. Raffle tickets are 1 for $5; 3 for $10; or 6 for $20.” Dozier assures all supporters that “100% of the funds go directly keeping Ohio waterways clean. Raffle tickets are being sold at all 6 Square One Locations: University of Dayton, Downtown Dayton, Oak Creek, Centerville, Downtown Columbus and New Albany.

You can also support the Earth Month/Clean Water initiative by joining the Square One Staff as they pour beer at the 5th Street Brew Pub on Sunday, April 17th from 12pm to 3:00pm. “You have to have clean water to make great beer,” remarked Canaan Good, who works at the salon. “I have been working with Square One Salon and Aveda for over 15 years, and I love their mission to save our water supply. Having children and seeing what happened in Michigan really hit home. I believe we can make a huge impact!”

“We love working with Aveda,” says Brent Johnson, one of Square One’s Proprietors. “Since 2007, they have raised $38 million to protect clean water. And the Sierra Club has helped us distribute dozens of rain barrels in the Miami Valley.” Johnson said you can learn about rain barrels by logging onto www.sierraclub.org/ohio. “One of the greatest parts of my job is knowing the company I work with cares this much about the Earth, ” added Dozier. “It’s nice to know we can make a difference.”

Protect Water, Change Lives is this year’s Earth Month theme. For more information go to squareonesalon.com or aveda.com/cleanwater. You can also reach Square One by calling 937.461.2222 to get information about Clean Water, Sierra Club rain barrels and Aveda’s mission.

DGMC To Make Dayton ‘Happy Campers!’

March 22, 2016 By Joshua Stucky

The Dayton Gay Mens Chorus is ready to take us all camping, sort of. “It is a great play on words” says David Moyer, the chorus President. “We are definitely focusing on camping, and of course ‘camp’ing.’ And what group can bring you showy, deliberate exaggeration better than the chorus! 13 years into their existence, the chorus has grown strong not only in numbers but in fans! “We now have around 50 total members. Even more exciting is the fact that we have a dedicated, growing fan base.” The concerts, featuring everything from a moving tribute to Harvey Milk, to an all out Broadway Bonanza, have expanded greatly since the inception. “The original chorus was known as the ‘Frightened 15,’ which got their start with the Cincinnati chorus. DGMC’s first real appearance, more than a decade ago, was on the steps of the Schuster Center in the Winter Garden.” Moyer said.

Much of the growth is credited to Kathy Clark, the DGMC director. “She brings her own spin to the chorus. She writes original mash-ups, brings new material, and incorporates music theory into the mix. She not only directs, she teaches us about music.” Along with the only other female member, their much-beloved pianist, Raymonde Rougier, the chorus brings a dynamic, diverse performance each and every time. This concert will be no exception.

‘Let’s Go Camping,’ which will be performed at the Dayton Art Institute on April 2nd, is a variety show wrapped in a chorale performance. “We found people wanted more of our performances at our shows, so this concert contains duets, trios, solos and production numbers. We are encouraging people to dress for the great outdoors. We are.” quips Moyer, “the chorus plans to wear flannel, jeans and hats!” And the camping doesn’t stop there. The music reflects the theme as well. “We are doing a lumberjack song and even a Civil War tenting number.” Moyer added.

The chorus, a not for profit organization, adheres to their mission to drive their passion. “We sing to inspire, encourage, and sustain excellence in the choral arts and to achieve a gay-affirming presence in the greater Miami Valley.” The chorus is housed at Westminster Presbyterian church in downtown Dayton. Practices are serious, but for this ‘Band Of Brothers’ it always has a light-hearted edge. “Our crowd, which is only about half LGBT, knows our family dynamic. We love that our audience is made up of friends, family, art lovers, and especially allies of the LGBT community.” Moyer remarked.

Doors open at the Dayton Art Institute campground at 7:00pm, with the concert kicking off at 8:00pm. There will be themed food and a cash bar. The cost for the concert is $40 and you can buy your tickets online. If you cannot catch the concert but would like to donate to the DGMC, email [email protected] or call the DGMC hotline at 530.0642.

Next for the DGMC will be a performance at Dayton’s Pride event slated for June 4th at Court House Square. Joining them will be Louisville’s Chorus, bringing a total of 70 voices to the Pride Event! But for now, it is time to pitch a tent, secure a hammock and relax with s’more great DGMC music!

LGBT TV Icon Celebrates Sweet 16!

March 15, 2016 By Joshua Stucky

Most of us are familiar with ‘Will and Grace,’ ‘Ellen,’ and even “Queer as Folk.’ But, if you really want to celebrate the power of LGBT television icons, look no further than DATV, home of Harper’s Bazzaroworld, and its iconic star Darryl Demure. Driven by a desire to bring drag, fun and frolic to television, Demure brought her idea to the powers that be at DATV. Originally, it was not well received. Thanks to an open-minded producer named KiKi, a pilot was made for the show that now hits 16 years of airtime. ‘Our fans love the fact that as we mature in age, we remain vital.’ No easy task for any television show.

Harper’s combination of heart, hilarity and humanity make it unique, and addicting! The show has brought in many accolades including DATV’s highest honor the “Roxy L. Cole Award of Excellence,” a “Philo T. Farnesworth Award,” and multiple awards in the Ohio area.

Darryl Demure, a name that represents the sophistication attached to the star, says the Holiday Shows are the most beloved. ‘My fans love the memories we create during the season!’ As for memorable interviews, she responds, ‘I have had the honor of interviewing two of Dayton’s mayors. I think they understand the importance of the human edge the show brings to the public. I also was able to celebrate with the RubiGirls’ own Dana Sintell on her 30th anniversary of raising money to fight HIV.’

Demure’s signature tea and Fig Newtons offered to every guest, add the perfect bit of home to an otherwise over-the-top serial. ‘Dayton has been perfect for this show. At first I was like, OMG Dayton, but since then, Dayton has been named the Queerest City in the USA, according to Advocate Magazine. Our town is very liberal!’ Darryl adds.

It’s not just a show for Daytonians. Harper’s Bazzaroworld is shown as far away as Manhattan, New York. The future looks bright for this staple of the area LGBT community. Demure has been working on a documentary, has hosted a radio show and has generated spin-offs for DATV, including ‘Queeries.’ She credits DATV with being her second family.

If you haven’t checked out Harper’s Bazzaroworld, do yourself a favor. The show is chock full of frivolity. Talking socks, music videos alla Demure, and surprise guests keep Daytonians coming back! Of note, the show is the longest running LGBT local access television shows in the country. No joke there!!

For information about Harper’s Bazzaroworld go to Facebook.com/harpersbazzaroworld or Facebook Darryl Demure!

Oscar at the Neon: Red Carpet, Crystal Anniversary & POPCORN!

February 25, 2016 By Joshua Stucky

It is that time of year again when the sound of tearing envelopes fills the air. The 88th Academy Awards will be presented on Sunday, February 28th, and one place you can catch the excitement is at the Neon Movies. The theater is hosting its Crystal Anniversary or 15th Annual Oscar Party beginning at 7:00pm. ‘We have lots of fun,’ says Jonathan McNeal, the Neon’s manager, ‘and some major prizes.’ Part of that fun is the chance to take home some goods for picking the winners. ‘We have ballots in our lobby now, stop by and make your predictions. If you are right, you can win anything from blu-ray copies of nominated films, to a grand prize basket filled with champagne, movie passes and gifts from Square One Salon!’

The broadcast is truly a treat on the big screen in high definition, and the theater is packed with around 100 movie lovers, some dressed to the 9’s, all anxious to hear the winners. The Neon is well known for its comfy chairs, and great refreshments, including beer, wine and delicious popcorn. The party is free and parking is easy with a lot across fifth street, and validation for the Convention Center garage. The Oscars start at 8:30pm, but McNeal warns, ‘Come early, make your picks, because ballots must be turned in before the first award is given.’

One of the most exciting facets of this year’s show, ‘Will be seeing Chris Rock handle the ceremony.’ says McNeal, ‘in light of the on-going nomination controversy.’ McNeal went on to say, ‘I would personally love to see Brooklyn win the Best Picture, but I feel Spotlight, the Revenant and The Big Short are the ones to watch!’

The night will certainly have its share of surprises, but one thing you won’t be surprised by is the fun-filled Oscar Party at Dayton’s beloved Neon Movies, where the WINNER IS…..YOU!

The Neon Movies is located at 130 E 5th St, Dayton, OH 45402. For more information, call neonmovies.com

Slip Her the Slipper!

February 10, 2016 By Joshua Stucky

There is nothing more thrilling than an audience screaming and cheering when all things end well. Especially an audience filled with girls of all ages dressed to the hilt in princess gowns!

‘Cinderella’ at the Schuster Center delivers a feel good version of the classic tale, with some not-so-classic moments. Buoyed by a light-hearted, tongue-in-cheek script, the Rodgers and Hammerstein rendition is silly, sweet and satisfying. There are surprises! No doubt, you too will leave for intermission feeling like something didn’t go as expected. ‘They made a mistake,’ said 10 year-old Natalie Combs. ‘I sure hope they can fix it by the end.’ At the sake of ruining the surprise, I’ll let you discover the big ‘HUH?’

The technical edge this production carries is truly mesmerizing. I, for one, am still not sure how Cinderella got into that gown, or out of it for that matter! Those moments of magic inspire children and adults alike. Most lovable is the fairy godmother, played with such zest by Liz McCartney, who makes some dramatic entrances and exits, all worth the applause she garnered. The stepmother and the stepsisters are…well, they are the step-family we all have grown to love and hate!

Truly, it’s in Prince Topher, played Andy Huntington Jones, and Cinderella, played by Kaitlyn Davidson, that we get the romantic edge we all crave. They are perfectly suited for their roles. They share an innocence, grace and likability that seal the deal. Sprinkled into the love story is a social awareness edge that adults can appreciate. The Prince really wants to make the world a more beautiful place. Can I vote for him in the 2016 election?

And in this version, Cinderella shows she can take care of herself, when necessary! The music is true to Rodgers and Hammerstein, with stand-outs ‘It’s Possible,’ ‘Ten Minutes Ago,’ and ‘Do I Love You because You’re Beautiful?’ The scenery is top-notch, especially the lighting design which takes us from deep in the forest, to dancing at the ball. And my, oh my, the dresses, some weighing up to 27 pounds, make the setting complete.

With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, ‘Cinderella’ will make for the perfect love story at the perfect time. Who doesn’t love a Cinderella Story, especially one where the ending is, much like a Venetian Glass slipper, truly fitting!

Information: “Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella” at the Schuster Center.

Showing Feb. 9-14; 8 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 2 and 8 pm Saturday; 2 and 7:30 pm on Sunday. Call (937) 228-3630 or go to www.ticketcenterstage.com

‘Wholly Moses!’

January 31, 2016 By Joshua Stucky

If you want to get to the heart of how people feel about art, ask the kids. Three quarters of the way through the Grandma Moses exhibit at the Dayton Art Institute, you will find a slew on index cards left by students from around the Dayton Area giving their insight into the show. ‘Naive,’ ‘Outsider,’ ‘Less Educated,’ and ‘ a Totally Cool Old Lady.’ Agreed.

Within the first steps you take, you find that Moses made the best of her life. Stunning and intricate embroidered pieces, tight in their stitching and heavy in appearance, show her expertise. It’s meticulous and rich in textures. ‘Viewers get an opportunity to see where Moses relied on the traditional stitches she used, and where she departed into a creative territory all her own,’ says Dr. Aimee Marcereau DeGalan, Chief Curator at the DAI.

For Moses, born Anna Mary Robertson, it was a passion she would have to alter when arthritis took its toll. At age 78, she found a new way to express herself, paint. Wallpaper, fire boards, wooden slats all played backdrop to Moses’ unique, sweet and signature style.

The paintings, 50 are on display, capture innocence, excitement and simplicity, of which Moses was the master. Unlike the maturity of her handicraft, her paintings have a childish, soft sense that take you into the heart of farm life Moses was proud to share. Among the pieces in the, ‘American Sampler’ exhibit, you will find works by Woldemar Neufeld, ‘crazy quilts’ by Mary O’Brien and lithographs from Currier and Ives. At the top of my list, a sampler done in 1825 by the eight year old Catherine Sophia Van Horne from Piqua, and the calico apron worn by Grandma Moses when she painted.

Do not miss the video that accompanies the show, you get to know the ‘Totally Cool Old Lady’ who lived to 101, and explains everything from her take on death, to how we all are painters! When it comes to showcasing the best in visual arts, the Dayton Art Institute once again proves, they have it all ‘sewn up!

Editors Note: You have until Feb 21st to see this exhibit.