Lisa Grigsby

Rock Piqua Drive-In Concert This Saturday

August 14, 2020 By Lisa Grigsby

Piqua Arts Council and Mainstreet Piqua are excited to announce that the Rock Piqua Drive-In Concert is happening this Saturday, August 15, 2020 from 7pm to 10pm at the Miami Valley Centre Mall. Performing at the concert will be Jamie Suttle at 7pm and Clark Manson at 8pm. The Drive-In style concert will happen in the parking lot between the old Elder Beerman and JC Penney with parking beginning at 4pm.

In addition to the Rock Piqua Drive-In, there will also be a food truck rally from 4pm to 7pm featuring Susie’s Big Dipper, Yummy Gyro, Buckeye Burger and Cumberland Kettle Corn. Organizers ask that anyone attending for the Food Truck Rally maintain social distancing and wear a mask when not consuming food.

“We are excited to be able offer one of the planned concerts for the year, even if it is in a different format,” said Piqua Arts Council Executive Director Jordan Knepper. “These events are great for bringing the community together, but that’s the one thing we aren’t allowed to do right now, so we worked with the City’s Health Department and Special Events coordinator to make sure we could do something that fit within the rules and guidelines.”

Piqua Arts Council and Mainstreet Piqua want to remind attendees that alcohol is not permitted, but they should feel free to bring their own food and drinks to the event.

“We want everyone to have a good time and stay safe. As this is a drive-in style concert, we won’t be offering any alcohol for the concert and we hope that attendees will make wise choices as well,” continued Knepper.

Kentucky born singer-songwriter Jamie Suttle has roots that reach deep into the rich soil of American music. The seeds of her inspiration were planted at a young age while singing in church. As she grew, it flourished under the sweltering heat of soul, R & B, and rock, all the while being suffused with gospel and classic country music.

Jamie’s music pays homage to classic country music while effortlessly creating her own style. While playing shows with people like Ashley McBryde, Lee Brice, Tyler Farr, the Kentucky Headhunters and Shooter Jennings; Jamie’s knack of blending soul with heartfelt lyrics provides a connection with her audience that cannot be broken. Jamie’s newest single, “Pissed Off and Reckless” was released, April 24 and can be found on iTunes, Spotify and more.

“Jamie has been on our radar for a while,” said Knepper. “She’s a phenomenal talent and I love her originals as much as the covers. She actually sang for our Sounds of the Season Holiday Concert one year, so she has been to Piqua.”

Closing out the night will be Covington’s Clark Manson. A small town in Ohio and a guitar are the ingredients that make up Clark Manson. It all began when Manson was a 12-year-old. A hand-me-down guitar caught Clark’s eye, so he picked it up and a few months (and several country concerts) later, he knew he had found his calling. Fast-forward some years later and Clark began playing bar shows while attending school. Soon the shows began to spread farther and farther from his college, but nothing could take the “hometown” out of him. Writing and co-producing all of his own music today, Clark resides back in his hometown with his wife and their children. The catalogue of Clark Manson reads like a well written novel from his young rowdy beginnings, to growing into the loving husband and father he is today. June of 2020 has brought with it a new music with his EP – “Lotta Bout You” which is available on iTunes, Spotify, and more.

Rock Piqua is a free event made possible through the generosity of our sponsors, Emerson, City of Piqua, Polysource Inc., Premier Health – Upper Valley Medical Center, French Oil Mill Machinery Co., Park National Bank, Edison State Community College and Vectren Energy. Additional sponsorship provided by McColloch Baker Insurance, Hartzell Industries, WPTW Classic Hits, Troy Community Radio, Koverman Staley Dickerson Insurance, Michael Web Solutions, and Buckeye Insurance Group.

Miami Valley Meals Emerges from Pandemic

August 12, 2020 By Lisa Grigsby

Chef Matt DeAngulo was the executive chef at Victoria Theatre Association’s Citilites at the Schuster Center and Event Services Department for nearly six years. In January of 2020 it was announced that they were closing down for renovations and a concept change, laying off all staff.

Chef Matt

Chef Matt, began volunteering more time with a local organization Set the Banquet Table, which was founded by baker and former Executive Director of House of Bread, Bill Evans. And then COVID 19 hit. In mid-March, Chef Matt DeAngulo asked friend and 501c3 Set the Banquet Table Chairman, Bill Evans, the best way to help. A couple of conversations more and Chef Matt had activated a team of recently unemployed Chefs and culinary professionals to assist by quickly and efficiently bulk preparing nutritious food. They began their efforts at the House of Bread and shortly after, St. Vincent de Paul and eventually, The Life Enrichment Center. The team’s many volunteer hours were soon supplemented through a new fiduciary, Set the Banquet Table.

As word got out among the social services community, Chef Matt’s meals were in demand. In his quest to feed the hungry in the region the vision for Miami Valley Meals was born. Using the skills of local chefs, they were able to use every bit of the donated food they received to create bulk nutritious meals to those in need. They started using the kitchen at the House of Bread, began working with St. Vincent De Paul and East End Community Services.

As the pandemic continued the vision grew by May with a $250,000 grant from the Federal Cares Act, made possible through the Community Action Partnership, Miami Valley Meals morphed into more than just a vision, but a true business. With a business plan that continues to grow and morph, the needs this organization can feed in the community are infinite.

Janice

Hiring Amanda DeLotelle as the Executive Director, who had worked with Chef Matt as the Food And Beverage GM at Victoria Theatre, and then worked with Kohler Catering before being laid off due to COVID 19, and Chef Matt were the first two hires. they were also supported by many partners including The Food Bank, Hall Hunger Initiative, East End Community Services, The Department of Public Health, Declare and many more.

They’ve now been able to bring on three full time chefs, several cooks and Janice part time bookkeeper who also paints, builds, and has done welding projects for the new space! Currently they have a staff of 10 and several key volunteers. Other volunteers are needed drivers for delivering meals to their partner, and in the future the plan for a garden will open up more volunteer opportunities.

With the talents of chefs, financial support from contributors, and emotional support from many, it is the goal of Miami Valley Meals to serve groups who are currently in our area directly feeding those who are in need of nourishment. They are currently working with 17 partner agencies and preparing an average of about 1500 meal each week, serving folks in Jamestown, Hamilton and all over the region. To date, they have compiled hundreds of volunteer hours and prepared more than 35,000 meals for underserved citizens in Dayton since our first day in the kitchen on March 24th.

They’ve just secured a building to serve as the hub of their packing and distribution center at the corner of Washington St. and Edwin C Moses, with a plan to raise the $330,000 it will take to buy the building, which will place them just minutes from Sinclair College and Ponitz Career Tech, where they would be abler to work with the culinary students from both schools to teach bulk food preparation and perhaps offer internships.

If you’d like to help Miami Valley Meals with a cash donation, please donate here.

Miami Valley Meals Wish list:
Food Carts, plumbing services to install a mop and 3 compartments sinks, stainless tables, a cargo van, someone who could build a ramp at the building entry, painters for the building (the paint has been donated). For more information contact [email protected]

Chef Matt DeAngulo, Amanda DeLotelle and Bill Evans

Miami Valley Meals serves those that feed the hungry. If you work with an organization that is seeking assistance in feeding the hungry, see if it’s a good fit for Miami Valley meals by filling out this form. If you are an individual in need of assistance, please use the 211 resource phone line.

Lebowski, Fargo & How To Build A Girl!

August 12, 2020 By Lisa Grigsby

Hello NEON Fans!

We’ve got to keep moving. This Friday, we’re bringing 3 films for in-person screenings – one is a new movie that I loved at last year’s Toronto International Film Fesitval and 2 are contemporary classics. In addition, we’ve got some new selections in our Virtual Cinema! If you still need to see MADE IN ITALY, it will screen for one show per day this weekend, and BURNT ORANGE HERESY will stick around for one more week.

Regarding new films, Beanie Feldstein is quite spectacular in HOW TO BUILD A GIRL (if you haven’t seen her in last year’s BOOKSMART, I highly recommend it – perhaps the best teenage comedy of the last decade). HOW TO BUILD A GIRL is a great coming-of-age story that’s funny, heartbreaking and quite a trip. It’s based on the much-loved, semi-autobiographical novel by Caitlin Moran. In addition, we’re bringing 2 Coen Brothers films that audiences adore – THE BIG LEBOWSKIand FARGO. Our virtual cinema just added 2 new offerings – the rock ‘n’ roll magazine documentary CREEM and the recently restored classic doc JAZZ ON A SUMMER’S DAY. On Friday, we’ll virtually open an inspiring new documentary about three women running for office – REPRESENT.

Almost everyone who has attended an in-person screening at THE NEON over the past 5 weeks has expressed how safe they have felt coming into our lobby and auditoriums. We appreciate that, but we know that so many people still aren’t comfortable coming out to public spaces yet. Please remember that when you watch one of the films that we’re offering virtually, you’re still supporting THE NEON…and that helps so much. If you haven’t watched any of our films virtually yet, please give them a try. Do you need a little tutorial regarding how you can access films on our virtual cinema? Here’s a LINK for a brand new video I just shot with our new website features. You can easily watch any of our virtual offerings on your computer or laptop…but it only takes a couple more steps to watch via Roku, AppleTV or even via an HDMI cable.

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New In-Person Screenings:

Synopsis for HOW TO BUILD A GIRL – In-Person Engagement: “Johanna Morrigan (Beanie Feldstein) is a bright, quirky, 16-year-old who uses her colorful imagination to regularly escape her humdrum life in Wolverhampton. Desperate to break free from the overcrowded flat she shares with her four brothers and eccentric parents, she submits an earnestly penned and off-beat music review to a group of self-important indie rock critics at a weekly magazine. Despite being brushed off initially, Johanna clamors to the top of the 90s rock music scene by reinventing herself as Dolly Wilde – a venerable, impossible-to-please music critic with an insatiable lust for fame, fortune, and men. It isn’t long before the rapid pace at which Johanna’s life is changing becomes overwhelming. Co-starring Alfie Allen, Paddy Consindine, Chris O’Dowd, and Emma Thompson.” (IFC Films) Click the image below to watch the trailer.

Synopsis for FARGO – In-Person Engagement: “Jerry Lundegaard is a car salesman in Minneapolis who has landed himself deep into debt. Desperate for money, he hires two inept crooks to kidnap his own wife in the hope that her wealthy father will pay the ransom, giving him enough cash to pay off his associates and clear his debts. But Jerry’s plan goes horribly wrong when the thugs kill a highway patrolman and two innocent bystanders, and the murders fall under the jurisdiction of Marge Gunderson; a pregnant but persistent police chief in rural Minnesota who starts to unravel the deadly scheme.” (Park Circus) Click the image below to watch the “vintage” trailer.

Synopsis for THE BIG LEBOWSKI – In-Person Engagement: “‘The Dude,’ Jeff Lebowski is unemployed and as laid-back as they come. That is until he becomes a victim of mistaken identity, and two thugs break into his apartment with the errant belief that they’re strong-arming Jeff Lebowski – the Pasadena millionaire. In the hope of getting a replacement for his soiled carpet, ‘the Dude’ pays a visit to his wealthy namesake…” (Universal Pictures) Click the image below to watch the trailer.

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New to our Virtual Cinema:

Synopsis for CREEM – Virtual Cinema: “Capturing the messy upheaval of the ’70s just as rock was re-inventing itself, CREEM: AMERICA’S ONLY ROCK ‘N’ ROLL MAGAZINE explores CREEM Magazine’s humble beginnings in post-riot Detroit, follows its upward trajectory from underground paper to national powerhouse, then bears witness to its imminent demise following the tragic and untimely deaths of its visionary publisher, Barry Kramer, and its most famous alum and genius clown prince, Lester Bangs, a year later. Fifty years after publishing its first issue, “America’s Only Rock ‘n’ Roll Magazine” remains a seditious spirit in music and culture.” Click the image below to watch the trailer and gain 72 hour access to the film for $9.99.

Synopsis for JAZZ ON A SUMMER’S DAY – Virtual Cinema: “Filmed at the 1958 Newport Jazz Festival in Rhode Island and directed by world-renowned photographer, Bert Stern. JAZZ ON A SUMMER’S DAY features intimate performances by an all-star line-up of musical legends including Louis Armstrong, Thelonius Monk, Gerry Mulligan, Anita O’Day, Chuck Berry, Dinah Washington, and closes with a beautiful rendition of ‘The Lord’s Prayer’ by Mahalia Jackson at midnight to usher in Sunday morning. This 1959 classic is considered one of the most extraordinary and possibly the first concert film ever made. Its sparkling new restoration by IndieCollect, recently premiered at the 57th New York Film Festival. The film was named to the National Film Registry in 1999, and its restoration was funded by the National Film Preservation Board of the Library of Congress in time to celebrate the film’s 60th Anniversary.” (Kino Lorber) Click on the image below to visit the site where you can watch the trailer and gain 5 day access to the film for $10.

Synopsis for REPRESENT – Virtual Cinema: “Equal parts personal and political, REPRESENT follows three women on both sides of the aisle who share the singular goal of improving their community through public service. Myya attempts to spark a youth movement and unseat the incumbent mayor of Detroit; Bryn, a farmer and working mother in Granville, OH, runs for township trustee; and Julie walks a tightrope between her identities as a Korean immigrant and Republican candidate for State Representative in a liberal Chicago suburb.” (Music Box Films) Click the image below to watch the trailer and pre-order 72 hour access to the film for $12. (This film will be available starting Friday.)

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Continuing in our Virtual Cinema:

Synopsis for OUT STEALING HORSES – Virtual Cinema: “Adapted from the bestselling novel, OUT STEALING HORSES follows 67-year-old Trond (Stellan Skarsgård) in the winter of 1999, still grieving the death of his wife as he retires to a solitary life in the Norwegian woods. Trond prepares to welcome the new millennium alone, until a chance encounter with his only neighbor, Lars, rekindles dormant memories from the summer of 1948-the summer Trond grew up.” (Magnolia Pictures) Click the image below to watch the trailer and pre-order 72 hour access to the film for $12. The film will be available starting this Friday! Immediately following the film there ix a pre-recorded discussion between Stellan Skarsgård and filmmaker Hans Petter Moland. This conversation is exclusive to in-person & virtual cinemas!

Synopsis for GORDON LIGHTFOOT: IF YOU COULD READ MY MIND – Virtual Cinema: When in-person screenings end on Thursday, our virtual engagement of this film will start Friday. “An exploration into the career, music and influence of the iconic musician. With unprecedented access to the artist and featuring interviews with Sarah McLachlan, Alec Baldwin and more, this intimate documentary follows Lightfoot’s evolution from choirboy in rural Canada to troubled troubadour.” (Greenwich Entertainment) Click the image below to watch the film’s trailer and pre-order 72 hour access to the film for $12.

Check out all the titles we’re currently offering in our Virtual Cinema HERE.

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Wanna know what’s coming down the road in our virtual cinema? (Click any title to watch that film’s trailer.) On August 21, we’ll open the new film from master-documentarian Barbara Kopple – DESERT ONE. On Aug 28, we’ll open an award-winning, crowd-favorite narrative MADE IN BANGLADESH as well as an award-winning doc MR. SOUL! Also on Aug 28, we’ll open a doc about the growing love of records – VINYL NATION. On September 11, we’ll open a lovely film about a family dealing with Alzheimer’s and a autobiographical stage play they produce before memories are lost forever – OUR TIME MACHINE. More to come!

We hope to see you soon!

Be safe & well.

My best,

Jonathan

IN-PERSON SHOWTIMES for Wednesday, Aug 12 – Thursday, Aug 20:

BURNT ORANGE HERESY (R) 1 Hr 39 Min

Wednesday-Thursday (Aug 12 & 13): 3:30, 7:20

Fri, Sat, Sun (Aug 14-16): 1:20, 7:00

Monday & Tuesday (Aug 17 & 18): 3:15

Wednesday & Thursday (Aug 19 & 20): 7:00

MADE IN ITALY (R) 2 Hrs

Wednesday-Thursday (Aug 12 & 13): 3:15, 7:00

Fri, Sat, Sun (Aug 14-16): 4:00

FINAL DAY – Aug. 16!

FARGO (R) 1 Hr 43 Min

Fri, Sat, Sun (Aug 14-16): 4:30

Monday & Tuesday (Aug 17 & 18): 3:30

Wednesday & Thursday (Aug 19 & 20): 7:20

THE BIG LEBOWSKI (R) 1 Hr 57 Min

Fri, Sat, Sun (Aug 14-16): 7:20

Monday & Tuesday (Aug 17 & 18): 7:20

Wednesday & Thursday (Aug 19 & 20): 3:30

HOW TO BUILD A GIRL (R) 1 Hr 42 Min

Fri, Sat, Sun (Aug 14-16): 1:45

Monday & Tuesday (Aug 17 & 18): 7:00

Wednesday & Thursday (Aug 19 & 20): 3:15

COMING SOON – In-Person Screenings:

(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear)

Aug 21 – TESLA

Aug 21 – STAGE MOTHER

Aug 28 – FATIMA

Sept 18 – THE NEST

TBD – THE CLIMB

THE PERSONAL HISTORY OF DAVID COPPERFIELD

Free Pop Up COVID-19 Testing Event

August 11, 2020 By Lisa Grigsby

Five Rivers Health Centers, in partnership with the Governor’s COVID-19 Minority Health Strike Force, the Ohio Department of Health and the Ohio National Guard, will host a free pop-up COVID-19 community testing event this Saturday, August 15, at its Five Rivers Family Health Center, 2261 Philadelphia Drive, Dayton. All who participate must wear a face mask and Five Rivers will provide masks for those who do not have one. No doctor order is needed for this free testing and children age 10 and older can be tested.

Test results for this event are expected in approximately seven days. This testing may NOT be appropriate for individuals needing fast, return-to-work results, or those currently experiencing COVID-related symptoms. Individuals currently experiencing symptoms should contact their primary care provider immediately to be assessed to determine the appropriate testing.

Five Rivers Health Centers providers or designated representatives will call all positive test result patients as soon as the results are received from the lab. Negative test results will be communicated via text or mail.

Individuals should bring their State I.D./Driver’s License. Appointments are not required, but pre-registration is encouraged, prior to Friday, August 14. More details and pre-registration are available at: https://bit.ly/33IWP8s

“The COVID-19 Minority Health Strike Force has worked with local partners to create pop-up testing sites in communities where access to testing may be limited,” said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. “By joining with the Ohio National Guard and other local partners, we can have a better understanding of COVID-19 through increased testing and be better able to prevent its spread.”

Crooked Handle- Great Beers and Now Good Eats!

August 8, 2020 By Lisa Grigsby

Crooked Handle, the Springboro brewery located in the strip center anchored by Dorothy Lane Market, has been serving up some great brews since December of 2015. They’d often have food trucks or even promotions for DLM’s pizza’s. They even added a full bar, so you can choose between the Berry Boro Blonde, the Bombs Away IPA or a Moscow mule. But they never really had much to offer in the way of sustenance to accompany their beers.

Well that’s changed as they’ve added a kitchen and quietly rolled out a pretty extensive food menu a few weeks ago. I was able to take a peek into the kitchen and looks like they’ve done it right! With a kitchen manager and crew that really understand how to put out great food in a relatively short amount of time. I’ve eaten there twice already and I’ve got to tell you it’s good! Currently following covid safety procedures, you order and pay at the register near the front doors, get assigned a # and then a food runner brings it out to your table.

On my first visit with a friend we tried some of the appetizers. Starting with some shareable apps, like traditional nachos, beer cheese and pretzle bites to flatbread and hummus, crispy cauliflower bites and even a charcuterie board and my favorite, the Crooked Tots-loaded with Beer Cheese, Onions, Jalapeños, Sour Cream, and Green Onions and the option to add a protein like chicken, beef or mojo pork. Most of these are in the $6-8 range, except the boards $9 for a 1/2 and $16 for a full board.

On my next visit I tried the CHBC Burger – Beer Cheese, Caramelized Onions, Roasted Mushrooms, Bacon, Fried Egg, and Lettuce and choose onion straws as my side. I could not get my mouth open wide enough for this ginormous burger- but even eating it with a fork it was one of the best burgers I’ve had in a while. And yes, I should have taken a picture, but I was so excited to dig in, I forgot

For those of you that might prefer a salad:

To check out the entire menu, visit the website.

They have two patio’s one out back and a newly expanded front patio:

Crooked Handle Brewing Co.

760 N. Main Street,
Springboro, OH 45066

(937) 790-3450

Wed & Thurs : 4-9p

Fri & Sat: 4-10pm

Sunday: 1-8pm

Chappelle Shows Granted Zoning Variance to Continue!

August 6, 2020 By Lisa Grigsby

A 3 hour meeting was held tonight via Go To Meeting which included testimony from folks from Miami Beach, Florida, Baltimore as well as all over Ohio, requesting their be a temporary zoning variance. Folks shared the economic impact the performances are bringing to the village, as well as the mental health benefits attendees felt they got. Many folks shared that the spotlight Dave Chappelle’s shows are bringing to Yellow Springs and the fact that he is setting the standard for COIVD 19 safe entertainment are monumental. A performer who’s appeared on the show shared how much he appreciated getting to be a part of something so special, while also sharing that his wife has buy spending way too much money in the local shops.

Several neighbors complained about the sound, especially the bass and lighting flooding their house, while other neighbors testified in support, saying that the noise was worth the positive effects the show was having in the community. Property owner Steve Wirrig said he’s made every effort to make sure the pavilion is being a good neighbor and respectful of other property owners.

After the Miami Township zoning board went into executive committee for about 1/2 an hour the board came back and approved the variance through Oct 4th unanimously with 2 conditions:

every effort is made to reduce the noise from the shows
property owner agrees to meet weekly with the neighbors to talk about noise and other concerns

Let the shows continue!

Now good luck getting tickets! For more info join the Dave Chappelle and Friends at Wirrig Pavilion – Fan Group on Facebook.

WYSO Public Radio Adds Staff

August 3, 2020 By Lisa Grigsby

Luke Dennis and Neenah Ellis Photo Credit Andy Snow

Luke Dennis, WYSO General Manager, and Neenah Ellis, Executive Director of The Eichelberger Center for Community Voices (The Center) have announced a number of staff changes both at WYSO Public Radio in Yellow Springs, signaling a fundamental shift in the direction and capacity of the station, and at The Center.

“Our world has changed dramatically in often turbulent and dramatic ways. The credibility of institutions is tested every day and people often are unsure where to find accurate, credible, and responsible news and information,” Dennis said. “We believe our audience, which has increased substantially over the last several years, looks to our station, our reporters, and editors and to NPR as a credible, balanced, and responsible news source. This change strengthens our news gathering and reporting capacity in order to keep pace with a rapidly and fluid news and information environment.”

According to Dennis, four new staff members have been added to the news team and three current WYSO employees have transitioned to new job responsibilities at the station. The new WYSO staff members are: News Director Jason Saul, Reporter Leila Goldstein, Environmental Reporter Chris Welter and Morning Edition Host Mike Frazier.

Three current WYSO staff members have assumed new duties at the station. They are:

Juliet Fromholt, who’s been with the station since 2009, has been promoted to Director of Digital and Programming Strategy. She will continue to oversee web and social media with a special focus on developing new digital music content in the coming year. She will continue to host “Kaleidoscope” and “Alpha Rhythms”.

Katie Main, formerly the Business Support and Events Manager, becomes an Account Executive, managing a portfolio of underwriting clients with a focus on Greene and Clark Counties.

Business Manager Art Boulet becomes Director of Finance and Administration, reflecting new responsibilities in HR and administration since Miami Valley Public Media received the station’s FCC license from Antioch College and made WYSO a completely independent radio station.

In addition, Luke Dennis becomes President and General Manager, overseeing the entire growing staff. He’s been with WYSO since 2012, leading its development team and increasing fundraising significantly in all categories.

Neenah Ellis, WYSO’s General Manager from 2009 to 2019, becomes the first Executive Director of The Eichelberger Center for Community Voices, which she began in 2010 as community training workshops.

Ellis is joined by the long time and award-winning producer of “Dayton Youth Radio,” Basim Blunt. He began an assignment in January as full-time Senior Producer and Instructor for The Center. Managing Editor and Reporter Jess Mador leaves the WYSO newsroom and becomes Senior Producer and Assistant Director of The Center focusing on community engagement and special projects. Finally, community producer Jocelyn Robinson, producer of several WYSO radio series, including “Rediscovered Radio” and “Senior Voices,” joins the staff of The Center as Producer for Emerging Initiatives, Education and Archives.

WYSO Staff with Volunteers – Feb 2020 – Photo Credit Andy Snow

“Now is our time,” says Ellis, “we’re grateful to our listeners and donors for the faith they’ve placed in us and with this reorganization we will change the face of public media in the Dayton area, with more local voices and more local stories. There’s never been a more important time to focus on local news, music and storytelling. We’re ready.”

On the air 62 years, with studios in Yellow Springs on the campus of Antioch College, WYSO has seen steady growth in fundraising and award-winning programming in the last ten years, increasing its listening audience significantly. Last year it became independent of Antioch College when Ellis and Dennis raised $3.5 million dollars in the community and worked with the College to create a new nonprofit entity, Miami Valley Public Media, to own the license and manage the station.

“Launching the Eichelberger Center for Community Voices and strengthening our newsroom are two pillars of our strategic plan. I’m proud that, with this reorganization and the new hires, we are delivering on those aspirations,” says Luke Dennis. “Like Neenah says: We’re ready!”

Liquor Curfew Takes Effect Tonight!

July 31, 2020 By Lisa Grigsby

The Ohio Liquor Control Commission unanimously approved Gov. Mike DeWine’s request to implement a curfew on the sale of liquor at bars and restaurants starting at 10 pm nightly July 31.

The commission met in an emergency meeting this morning on the measure aimed at curbing COVID-19 outbreaks throughout the state. DeWine said he intends to sign the executive order to go into effect the evening of July 31.

Any alcoholic drink purchased before 10 pm must be consumed by 11 pm The rule will be applied to any business with a liquor license. According to the governor’s spokesperson, the order is in place until further notice.

Local businesses are devastated by this new curfew and many feel like it might just be the final nail in the coffin for struggling bars and restaurants. We reached out to a few local restaurant and bar owners for comments. One bar owner who preferred to stay anonymous points out that in June the Ohio House put out a bill that would allow bars to serve until 4am on weekends to try and recoup some of their lost sales and now less than 2 months later they are cutting back our hours. For many business owner pointed out they’ve just renewed their liquor license and now they are being cut back 25% in their operating hours- asked if they will get a refund for 25% of the license fee?

MacKenzie Manley, owner of Mack’s Tavern shared ” that 70% of our business is after 10pm from servers after they get off work that is now lost? What do I do with my bartenders to make it fair to them on shifts so they can still pay their bills? How am I supposed to pay rent when I am going to lose at least $10,000 a month in sales now?

Sorry, I’m just kind of done, this has almost broken me, I’ve been gluing myself together everyday since March so I don’t break. And I fear that I’m close to breaking. “

But she follows up by saying “I will not give up though, I am going to do sloppy diner breakfast now to try to make up for some loss. So many places are going to lose their dreams that they worked so hard for its heartbreaking.”

Archers Tavern has announced that in order to comply with the directive from the state of Ohio, they are introducing UNHAPPY HOUR! We will make last call for alcohol at 9:59. From 10:00 P.M. until 11:00 all appetizers will be ½ price for dine-in only. Drinks ordered prior to 10:00 P.M. must be consumed by 11:00. Restaurant will remain open until midnight or until all of our guests have been served. See you tonight for UNHAPPY HOUR!

At The Dublin Pub starting today you can get a pint of beer or a liter (33.8 ounces). Although some may consider it blasphemous to get a Guinness in anything other than 20oz gravity glass, this is a new option to order a big ass beer around 9:59 pm. Also between nine and 10 they are now including a Sidecar shot of Jameson, Absolut, Tullamore Dew, Skrewball, or Fireball for $3.00.

Bob Byers at Carmel’s Southwest Bar and Grill says “I’m disappointed we are all being punished for the careless acts of a few. I’d really like to see the Health Departments be a little more proactive about penalizing those not following the rules- shut them down for 30 days, they’ll learn. It’s just wrong the industry is being punished by the lack of care of a few. For a a small bar like the Somewhere Lounge can do as much in the last 2 hours as we do all day.” Byers shares that much of his business at the lounge is from industry folks getting off work at their jobs and stopping in late night for drinks. The anxiety levels for staff and owners is rising, wondering what this curfew is going to do to our incomes.

Newcom’s Tavern just posted this on their Facbook page: We are saddened to announce that we will be temporarily closed due to the new limited hours for alcohol on-site consumption passed by the Ohio Liquor Control Commission. We are so grateful for the love and support of the community and can’t wait to serve you again very soon! Stay safe and healthy and we’ll see you soon!

DaytonDining is making the plea to those that are able, to continue to patronize our local establishments. We’ve heard from so many that they’ve felt the support from the community, as they learned to do carryout, sold gift cards and opened patio’s. But in the last few weeks, things have slowed back down and now with these new limited hours, it’s going to be tough. We need to do all we can to lift up our bars and restaurants. Little things like sharing pictures when you dine out, leaving reviews on Yelp and Google do make a difference as well. Lets keep on supporting all the flavors of our community!

BBB-Dayton Announces 2020 Eclipse Integrity Award Winners

July 31, 2020 By Lisa Grigsby

These are trying times for our marketplace, the pandemic’s even made an impact on the Better Business Bureau’s Eclipse Integrity Awards, which are sponsored byWesBanco Bank, Inc., Back To Business I.T., WDTN-TV, Cox Media Group Ohio and iHeart Radio. This awards event was scheduled to be held earlier this year in May, but the BBB decided to take it virtual and announce the winners this week. This is certainly not how the organization expected to recognize its honorees this year, but the health and safety of all is of utmost importance

The BBB’s Eclipse Integrity Awards are about ethics, honesty and integrity. The award judges reviewed 20 completed nominations. The competition was tough and it was difficult for them to make their decisions, but they narrowed the field to 12 finalists, which narrowed down to six winners. Each nominee demonstrated strong rationale for why it should be considered.

The Eclipse Integrity Awards are presented to businesses featuring strong leadership and team members. Their leadership is committed to ethics, building a culture of high character ethics and unifying team members around ethical practices. The team is dedicated to performance management practices, ethical human resource practices and committed to the community as demonstrated by their community service and support of the BBB ideals.

The Nonprofit Eclipse Integrity Awards are presented to nonprofits or charities, which demonstrate outstanding community service through their mission and accomplishments, demonstrate excellence in programs and fiscal stewardship, operate with integrity through ethical leadership and a strong team, are transparent in their communications and value the power of collaborations/partnerships. Their actions make a positive impact on the vitality and overall health of our community while supporting the ideals of BBB.

Roberson Law, the Eclipse Integrity Award winner in the 0-10 employees category, is a premier law firm, which focuses on estate planning, trust, probate and elder law. Its mission is to provide excellent, compassionate legal services to help people plan for the unexpected and prepare for the inevitable. The firm hires based on character rather than credentials. Employees are motivated by exhibiting integrity through ethical behavior, excellent work, honest communication and service to the community. The team goes above and beyond the call of duty by obtaining certifications that aren’t required to practice law, but enable them to excel at what they do. They also exhibit integrity in their communication by telling the truth and minimizing negativity. Staff volunteer hundreds of hours in the community and do pro bono legal work. The founder has offered her speaking services free of charge for twenty-five years. In addition, many employees serve on nonprofit boards and assist at charitable events.

Maxim Roofing Company, the Eclipse Integrity Award winner in the 11-25 employees category,does commercial, industrial and residential roofing. The team considers old-fashioned values and friendly personal service among its most important assets. Team members work hard to be better today than they were yesterday. They constantly learn from experiences good and bad, looking forward to the future without forgetting the past. They work hard not to lose sight of the small company feel, wanting customers to feel comfortable from their first contact to job completion. At every meeting, it is always stressed “When in doubt, take care of the customer and use good roofing practices”. Maxim Roofing stands behind its products and services. Maxim Roofing is a proud sponsor of many organizations, including baseball and softball leagues, pee-wee football, volleyball, high school athletics, church camps, church bulletins, church fundraisers and a variety of veteran and police organizations.

For 20 years, Dayton Dragons Professional Baseball, the Eclipse Integrity Award winner in the 26-59 employees category, has worked tirelessly to make its sports-entertainment experience one of the best, striving to provide the highest standards for the community. The organization’s drive for excellence can be seen in the quality of products. The organization has five key business strategies that help guide its morals, ethics and management philosophy. These are part of all decisions made and the team provides continual staff training to ensure employees are aware and embrace them. The Dragons’ sellout streak has required the organization to hire better, train better, lead and manage better and provide unsurpassed customer service. The Dragons have even initiated many programs that directly promote, highlight and give back to the community. Its Foundation provides necessary funding and resources to support the countless donations, charitable giving requests, in-kind donations, unique game experiences and community-wide programs it supports every year.

The Eclipse Integrity Award winner in the 60+ employees category, JYG Innovations. is an organization that provides IT managed solutions, cyber security and research/analysis. The JYG Innovations team believes high integrity simplifies complex situations. By maintaining a high level of integrity, it maintains an honorable reputation. One unique example of integrity within the organization is it doesn’t measure success based on annual revenue or sales. The team believes a focus solely based on dollars and cents may lead to poor choices and behaviors. Instead, they focus on how the organization delivers services, takes care of employees and exceeds customers’ expectations. The team believes the organization has a responsibility to be an engaged corporate citizen. Employees are encouraged to be active and engaged in their communities. Through JYG Cares, the company supports sports activities, adopt-a-family initiatives and various non-profit organizations, such as the YWCA, DCDC, Air Camp and Women in Defense.

The Tandana Foundation, the Nonprofit Eclipse Integrity Award winner in the 0-10 employees category, offers support for community initiatives internationally as community members work toward dreams of education, health, food security, water resources, environmental conservation and income generation. The organization has grown exponentially. For instance, it partnered with a few communities at its start to now over 100. It’s increased from three volunteer ventures annually to 12. And, it’s increased donations from $7,000 in 2006 to $355,186 in 2019. Tandana’s focus on its values of positive intercultural relationships, responsibility and respect for people and their cultures remains constant. The pandemic’s made the organization stay true to its values, coordinate resources to make good decisions and find alternative ways to deliver on its mission. Being a BBB Accredited Charity, a Guidestar Platinum Seal of Transparency and a 2020 top-rated Great Nonprofit confirms Tandana lives by its ideals. These honors give others confidence Tandana is an organization worthy of support.

The Nonprofit Eclipse Integrity Award Winner in the 11+ employees category, Agape for Youth, Inc., is a foster care, adoption through foster care, reunification services and a bridges service provider that embraces the philosophy of loving unconditionally to make a difference in children’s lives. Since 1989, hundreds of children have been placed in the care of loving foster families and well over a hundred families have opened their hearts, homes and become licensed foster and adoptive parents. Through its Strength Finders 2.0 initiative, Agape has built a positive, professional and progressive culture, which continually strengthens programs and services while serving with excellence. The team treats everyone that visits the office with respect and kindness. It continually meets the BBB’s high standards to provide donors, volunteers and supporters with the assurance they’re able to trust the organization. Bottomline, the Agape for Youth team is passion ‘embraced’, commitment ‘driven’, integrity ‘centered’…the result.….” AGAPESTRONG”!

John North, president/CEO of BBB serving Dayton and the Miami Valley, says, “Congratulations to all of our winners. They are the best of the best and model the way for others in our marketplace. It’s an honor to celebrate the great things all the winners have done, are doing and will be doing in the future. We will be featuring them at multiple events this fall and hope you join us for each of them.”

Mark your calendars to join us at these events. On September 9, 8:30 – 10 a.m., we’ll be hosting a virtual integrity panel featuring our Eclipse winners and Torch Award honoree, Yaskawa Motoman. Register at https://bit.ly/EclipseIntegrityPanel.

Grant Helps Bridge Digital Divide For Students

July 29, 2020 By Lisa Grigsby

Thousands of Greater Dayton students lack the devices or Internet connectivity to engage productively in remote learning experiences, according to Learn to Earn Dayton. To reduce the digital inequity that has been intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic, The Dayton Foundation recently awarded a $70,000 discretionary grant aimed at assisting Learn to Earn Dayton in buying Chromebooks for schools in Dayton and Montgomery County’s high-poverty school districts.

“In order for students to be successful in today’s connected environment, they need the devices to do their schoolwork remotely,” said Barbra Stonerock, vice president of Community Engagement for The Dayton Foundation. “We see this award as an investment in the future of our community’s students and leveling the opportunities for low-income families.”

The Foundation’s grant joins with grants from Mathile Family Foundation, The Frank M. Tait Foundation, The Charles D. Berry Foundation, The Berry Family Foundation, Louise Kramer Foundation and the COVID-19 Response Fund for Greater Dayton established by The Dayton Foundation and United Way of the Greater Dayton Area. Total commitments exceed $300,000.

Together, these regional philanthropic partners will help address the first of a three-phase connectivity plan. In the first phase, Learn to Earn Dayton will provide and distribute approximately 900 devices to targeted schools in Dayton, Jefferson, Northridge and Trotwood Madison school districts. Phases two and three of the plan focus on the mid- and long-term larger strategy around access to connectivity, quality remote learning experiences, maintenance of devices and more.

According to Thomas Lasley, PhD, chief executive officer of Learn to Earn Dayton, one out of four students in high-poverty households access remote learning as little as once a week or less. By contrast, 83 percent of students in families with incomes of $100,000 or more are engaged in remote experiences every day.

“Remote learning is the new normal in education, and the divide in schools between who has access and who doesn’t is getting worse,” Lasley said. “If we’re going to be able to solve the challenges of remote learning associated with COVID-19, then access to connectivity, quality remote educational opportunities and devices must be addressed. Thanks to this grant from The Dayton Foundation, support from other philanthropic institutions and resources aligned with regional and statewide organizations, we can do just that.”

While Learn to Earn Dayton and the Montgomery County Educational Service Center (MCESC) will purchase and distribute the Chromebooks, the Montgomery County Regional Planning Commission, the City of Dayton, Montgomery County and other stakeholders will be investigating the best options for connectivity and developing a plan for increasing hot spots and/or Internet connections. MCESC also is a key strategic partner in both facilitating student connectivity and addressing the instructional needs of teachers.

Coldwater Cafe Launches New Menu

July 29, 2020 By Lisa Grigsby

Chef Katy Fischer of Coldwater Cafe in Tipp City has introduced a new menu starting today in their European styled dining room. The restaurant is open 11 am until 8 pm Tuesday through Thursday and 11 am until 9 pm Friday and Saturday. They are taking reservations for BOTH lunch and dinner at this time! You can make a reservation online using OpenTable.

Check it out below:

Germantown’s By-Jo Theatre Available for Private Events

July 28, 2020 By Lisa Grigsby

Even though they are currently not open for movie showings, Germantown’s By-Jo theater is available for private rentals. You can rent out the theater for your own private showings, bring your own blue-ray or other form of recording that can be played through their computer on and rates are quite reasonable: Parties of 1-40 people $80; 41-70 people $120! Concession packages available for soda, popcorn and candy. With approval by management, you can bring in pizza or cake. They also have a 2nd floor banquet room, just perfect for bridal showers or small banquets for up to 50 guests, however it is not handicapped accessible.

If you have questions or want to book your party at the By-Jo please call CoraAnn at 812-290-1644!!

The By-Jo Theatre was originally opened in downtown Germantown in the 1920’s. In the “olden days,” the silent films were accompanied by music from a player piano, later owner, Johnny Bankerd, actually play the piano. There were no refreshments on which to munch during the early days at the By-Jo, and anyone sneaking in hard tack, licorice twists, or, heaven forbid, ice cream ‘dopes’, would get the less-than-royal heave-ho! There continued to be quite a following of the “picture shows,” and in 1926, the theatre was relocated to its current location at 20 North Main Street. Ticket prices went up to 10 cents, and the decorum of watching picture shows was strictly monitored by the new owners, Ron and Ann Emrick. Following the death of Ron Emrick, the By-Jo closed, but was later re-opened to movie-goers by The Germantown Lions Club. The movie house closed again in 1969, and remained vacant, haunted by the ghosts of Hopalong Cassidy, Roy Rogers, Gloria Swanson, Mary Pickford, Nelson Eddy, Lionel Barrymore, John Wayne, Jimmy Cagney, Jimmy Stewart, and Popeye, the Sailor Man, until 1986, when it was purchased and completely refurbished by Don (Scotty) and Barb Allen of Germantown. It ran for 33 years under their guidance.

Brian and CoraAnn Tarbox took over the theater in December of 2019 and had been running it for just about 3 months when the Governor’s orders to shut down came. CoraAnn shares it’s been a struggle to stay afloat, because even though they haven’t been able to open, they still have a mortgage and utilities to pay. They’ve decided not to reopen while the county is under a Level 3, which means all guests would need to wear a mask indoors, and they don’t want to have to become the mask police and they want to be sure all their guest can be safe and healthy.

In the meantime they’ve had a popcorn and candy sale, printed and sold souvenir t-shirts. CoraAnn Brian says the outpouring of support from the Germantown community has been overwhelming,” and she can’t wait to be able to open again.

EO Burgers New Location Opens July 29th

July 28, 2020 By Lisa Grigsby

Glen Pyle, Managing Partner EO Burgers

Tomorrow begins the 2nd chapter of EO Burgers, who spent their first 10 years in the Miami Valley at The Greene. On Wed, July 29t they will open for carry-out, and delivery from noon – 8pm in Centerville, in the strip center that was formerly home to Ollie’s Place, near Bargo’s. Featuring upscale burger at an affordable price, the scratch menu features an array of burgers, including kobe beef, elk burgers, salmon chicken and a “beyond” vegan burger. One change with the new locations menu, all burgers come with a choice of hand cut fries- choose from parmesan, garlic, cajun, herb rubbed, truffle or just regular. EO Burgers features over 30 whiskey’s and features frozen custard shakes as well.

Managing Partner Glen Pyle shared that his biggest challenge right now is staffing, and once he’s able to hire a few more, he’ll make plans to open for dining room service and open on Monday as well. He says this location is about 800 square feet bigger than the former Greene location and he also has gained about 40 seats at the 10 patio tables. An awning is in the plans for the future.

The eatery will work it’s way up to 31 beers on draft and even has a stage Plye looks forward to programming after Covid 19 social distancing is in the past.

Here’s the full menu:

EO Burgers

520 Miamisburg Centerville Rd.Washington Township, OH 45459

937-723-8810

Hours:

Tues- Sat noon – 8pm

There’s A New Taco Truck In Town!

July 25, 2020 By Lisa Grigsby

Making it’s grand opening debut today at The Entrepreneurs Marketplace which is located at 13 N Williams Street, is the TACO STREET CO. food truck. Owner Anthony Thomas told us he’s done a lot of cooking for friends and family over the past 20 years and everyone urged him to open a business. Growing up on the East side of Dayton, he learned to cook from his mother, getting to the point where he’d mastered her recipes and she would allow him to cook for her. His mother passed this past January and he wants to honor her by sharing those family recipes with the masses. He says his Taco Street Classic – ground turkey tacos are his signature item.

He also shared his truck is “one of a kind, it’s not just about the food, but it’s about the experience. I want you to see the truck, our cooking and have a truly appealing experience.” Follow them on Facebook to find out where they’ll be set up next.

The menu:

Fish Taco– Deliciously flavored Fish in a Soft Corn Tortilla topped with our delicious “Taco Street Mango Salsa” topped with your choice of Sauce.

Shrimp Taco– Latin inspired Shrimp in a Soft Corn Tortilla topped with our delicious “Taco Street Mango Salsa” topped with your choice of Sauce.

Chicken Taco – Shredded Chicken Seasoned to perfection made your way with our classic freshly made Taco shell Soft or Hard.

Taco Street Classic – Ground Turkey, Cheese, Sour Cream, Lettuce, Tomato, all in our Freshly made Crunchy Taco Shell along with our special “Taco Street Sauce” to add a Flavorful experience.

Vegan Taco – Beyond Meat Seasoned to Perfection, Vegan Sour Cream, Vegan Cheese, Lettuce and Tomato and our Classic Freshly made Shell.

10?’s with Pastry Chef Justin Emanuel Mohler

July 22, 2020 By Lisa Grigsby

Justin Mohler went to culinary school at Sullivan University and has been a pastry-chef in the Dayton area for the better part of twenty years, working at Blue Moon, Christopher’s Restaurant and Olive- An Urban Dive. Hoping to open in August, Salt Block Biscuit Company has been a long time in the planning, with construction delayed and some of the layout changed as COVID 19 social distancing has taken over.

His new place will be located in the Fire Blocks District at 115 East Third Street and will feature fresh baked goods with breakfast and lunch served to go or from the baker’s dozen bar stool at a counter. He’ll also be open for nighttime service on the weekends and hopes to feature cooking classes as well.

There will also be a small bodega style market section that will feature grab and go goodies, that will include high end tinned meat (think sardines and tuna) as well as locally sourced honey, jams and vinegars.

While waiting for the final touches to be put on his building, after a long delay due to the Pandemic, Justin was kind enough to take on our DMM Chef’s 10 Questions Interview:

What is your favorite ingredient to cook with?

Butter: I love the fact that this dairy product is Universal in so many ways. From flaky French pastries to adding richness to a curry Indian or Thai cuisine, it succeeds to many levels.

What ingredient do you dread?

Rose Water: This is best used for perfumes and not for internal use. Ha! I mean you wants a mouth full of potpourri?

A little bit goes a long way, thats for sure.

What’s your favorite dish to make?

Any type of shoulder, leg or arm that would require a full day in the oven and fills the air with an herby bold aroma.

What’s your favorite pig out food?

Chips & Dip of any shape or form

What restaurant, other than your own, do you like to dine at in the Miami Valley?

I’m a sucker for ole school Supper Clubs, Treasure Island, Hickory Bar-B-Q, Buckhorn, Oakwood Club.

These places take me back to my childhood when we would go out with my grandparents on a Saturday night. What a treat that was!! Also these places have a feeling of tradition which to me makes the menu more consistent and no surprises.

What’s your best advice for home chefs?

Clean as you go

If you could invite any 4 guests to a dinner party who would they be and why?

Nancy Silverton, Martha Stewart, Christina Tosi, & Samin Nosrat

I just have a strong connection with how they view food. I also feel they would leave their egos at the door and would be open for me to pick their brains. At least I would hope.

Who do you look up to in the industry and why?

Elizabeth Valenti

She takes pride in her staff and does so much for the community. I’m just getting to know her but all I’ve witnessed is kindness and patients. Another person I would love to have over for dinner soon.

What do you do in the Miami Valley on a day off?

Bike and Brewery hopping

Share a kitchen disaster, lucky break or other interesting story:

I once caught my shirt on fire while stirring rhubarb.

While working at Christopher’s in late May of 2009. I had a large stock pot full of chopped rhubarb to cook down slightly before adding it to my strawberries. To keep it from burning in the bottom of my pot, I constantly had to keep a firm intense stir. My friend who was also a chef in the kitchen that day looked over at me stirring and said ” Justin you’re on fire!!”

Thinking she was commenting on my determination of not burning the rhubarb.. I replied ” I Know” and just kept stirring with a smile.

She raised her voice ” No, you’re literally on fire”

I looked down and here I had myself too close to the range and had caught my shirt on fire. With a panic I turned around and headed for the sink. How I did not burn myself is beyond me, but my shirt on the other hand had seen better days. I then borrowed an undershirt from a server so I could finish my strawberry rhubarb cobbler.