Dayton

Corleone’s: A Menu You Can’t Refuse

March 28, 2014 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

The Manicotti Dinner at Corleone’s is a “Must Eat” (click to enlarge)

“Some day, and that day may never come, I will call upon you to do a service for me. ” – Don Corleone “The Godfather”

Well, The Big Ragu & Crew are here to do a service for you. Today, we share with you a place you may not know about. A kitchen that produces some great pizza, pasta and more. In other words, let the Food Adventure peeps be your consigliere on this one.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Corleone’s has two Locations, one at 725 Lyons Rd. and the original at 966 Patterson Rd.

— Homemade dough everyday. This ensures not only fresh pizzas, but tasty pasta dinners.

— Amazing Specialty Pizzas. These are mafia boss of the menu. Deluxe toppings, and themed pizzas like the Taco Pie, Greek Pie, Steak Pie will make your day. There are many more unique creations with white or red pizza sauces.

— Calzones and Hoagie Sandwiches are the dark horse on the menu, and will “whack” your tastebuds.

— Unique menu items that only New Yorkers typically see, like Pepperoni Rolls and Sausage Rolls.

Great specialty pizzas like”Buffalo Chicken Pizza” at Corleone’s

— Carryout is available, and they have Delivery Service as well.

MUST EATS:

— MANICOTTI: Served piping hot , this meal is liberal on cheese and sauce. It is absolutely delicious, and it is the Big Ragu’s favorite choice on the menu.

— TACO PIE: Corleone’s serves a great version of taco pizza. The fresh lettuce, olives and tomatoes make all the difference. Send your hitmen in for one of these babies.

— BUFFALO CHICKEN PIZZA: Tasty, tangy and even a kid pleaser. Again a good version of a unique pizza spin.

— WINGS: We were super surprised at how good the breaded wings were. They are crunchy, crispy and ready for dipping in your favorite sauce. Best of all, they are cooked all the way through !

— SPINACH CALZONE: Served with marinara, the key is again in the fresh dough. Filled with ricotta cheese (like a real calzone should be), it is a flavorful, filling meal.

Honorable Mention:

The Eggplant Hoagie is a good sub, capesh? Did we mention it is a monster? So split one with your favorite wiseguy and see what all the fuss is about.

The Wedgie: Want a Food Adventure in a plate? Try a Wedgie! No it is not the “grundy” you used to give your classmates. It is a calzone with no ricotta cheese or tomato sauce. It is cooked and then topped with lettuce and onions. Call it an Italian version of the mini-super burrito and fagheddaboutit.

Surprisingly Good Wings at Corleone’s !

One warning, if you have a large group coming to Corleone’s, you definitely want to call ahead so they are properly prepared for your group of friends or paisans. Also, the wine and beer selections are limited, so beware if you are looking for something special to drink.

Now “youse guys got” some good direction from The Big Ragu on a little known secret. What’s not a secret is that practically all of the pizzas we have tried, during our numerous visits have been great. From the top your own, to the seafood pizza, it is up to you to find your own favorite. All we can do is lead you to the good stuff. Trust us, it’s the best pizza and pasta spot that you’ve never heard of. It is definitely a menu you can’t refuse…

Want more Food Adventure fun from these 2 goombahs? Then join other Dayton foodies and “like” The Big Ragu, Chef House, and Hungry Jax on Facebook by clicking HERE.

Make sure you check out our photo gallery from our Food Adventures to Corleone’s !

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Mikesells Introduces Cincinnati Style Chili Potato Chips

February 18, 2014 By Dayton937 2 Comments

New Cincinnati Chili Flavored Chips from Mikesells

Attention Dayton Foodies !!

Here is something you wont see anywhere else .. YET.. The Food Adventures Crew love Mikesell’s Potato Chips, and we love Cincinnati chili. What an incredible idea the people at Mikesell’s had to combine to two !

We first tried the proto-type chip last summer, with the founder of Mikesells, D.W. Mikesell’s, great-grandson Luke Mapp. We have been sworn to secrecy about the flavor until now …. Verdict ???

The chips are delicious. So what makes them a MUST EAT ??

— The spices have captured the chili taste to a tee, even the hints of chili powder and Greek spices.

— The flavor level is perfect, not overpowering, which means great snack time enjoyment with a high “eatability factor”

— The flavor and freshness that is typical of the local Mikesells brand

Actually, you can see these chips somewhere else… We ran into bags of them at Speedway, and lets just say “we boosted our Speedy Rewards points.” Terrific stuff from your hometown potato chip company. We highly suggest you grab some of these and share them with your friends… or be selfish, we don’t care.

The Big Ragu loves the new Cincinnati Style Chili Flavor

Want a Food Adventure in a bag? Then make sure you get the new Cincinnati Chili Style Potato Chips from Mikesells!!

Want more Food Adventures?? Check out their spicy Facebook Page and”like” them HERE !

Want more on Mikesell’s Potato Chips? Check out our FOOD ADVENTURE at the Mikesell’s Plant HERE !

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Ha Ha Pizza with Local Artist, Tom Watson III

February 17, 2014 By Dayton937 1 Comment

Pizza with Artichokes, Spinach, Fresh Garlic, Pesto, and Turkey Sausage

Some Food Adventures are inspiring. Take the case of local artist, scenester and zinester, Tom Watson III. In March 2005, he survived a brain stem stroke. What did he do next? He used art to recover his motor skills and heal his mind. Today some of his collection adorns the walls of Ha Ha Pizza in Yellow Springs for a limited art showing. Tom’s art show, titled “Entropy & Reclamation” will be running though March 2014. The event is named for his initial decay and chaos from the stroke, and his eventual reclaiming of a normal life.

We have actually eaten with Tom at HaHa Pizza a couple of times, since his first art show in 2007. We will get into the pizza in a bit, but first some history.

Tom’s story is one of overcoming obstacles, and never giving up. Since his stroke, his life has changed. He used the artwork not only to recover, he finished his degree, he married a loving wife, and has two wonderful sons. Again, an inspiration and not bad for someone who wasn’t expected to live through the massive stroke. He not only lived, he turned the entire ordeal into a learning experience. He tackled his nightmare head-on, using scans of his brain stroke in many of his paintings.

You might be cool, but are you “get a National Award from ‘The Fonz’ cool” like Tom ?

Tom exhibits his art locally from time to time but in 2011, it received NATIONAL attention, when Tom was awarded the first annual RAISE Award from the National Stroke Association. Watson received the Outstanding Individual Award in recognition of his efforts to advocate for stroke awareness and prevention through his artwork. The awards ceremony was held at the Denver Natural History museum in Denver, Colorado, and Watson was honored with the award by Henry “The Fonz” Winkler of Happy Days fame.

Tom’s art is unique and takes you through his mind and recovery. We asked why he uses cardboard instead of canvas for his paintings. His answer was that it all about recycling. Tom had to learn how to recycle certain uses of his brain and muscles, so the cardboard is a message passed down from his struggle. Today, Tom announced he is facing another hardship, as he was diagnosed with cancer in his tongue. With his positive attitude, he is certain to conquer this challenge as well.

So if you want to support an incredible story of a local man beating the odds, please take some time to visit Ha Ha Pizza this Friday or visit TOM’S WEBSITE HERE. You may find a piece you like. It is more than art, it is a symbol of perseverance.

Some of Tom Watson’s artwork on display at Ha HA Pizza Through March

WHAT: Art Reception Event “Entropy & Reclamation” at Ha Ha Pizza at 108 Xenia Ave in Yellow Springs

WHEN: Feb 21st, 5:30pm – 10pm

WHY: Showcasing local artist and stroke survivor Tom Watson’s artwork.

MORE INFO: http://www.facebook.com/tomwatson3rd.art

UPCOMING ART: Tom will also be the featured artist for April 2014 at North South Studios in Wilmington, Ohio.

Watson is also in discussions to be a featured artist at X*ACT Gallery in Xenia for the Xenia Arts Council in May or June 2014.

Want to support Tom? Then check out the art show or buy some hand-printed, silk-screened T-shirts, available at Urban Handmade store in downtown Yellow Springs.

Now about our FOOD ADVENTURES to HA HA PIZZA with Mr Watson…………

******HA HA PIZZA******

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

A slice from Ha Ha Pizza with Feta cheese option and more

— Iconic pizza joint located in Yellow Springs since 1971

— An Urban Legend says the name “Ha Ha” Pizza came from the sprinkling of a certain wacky weed on the pizza and the effects on customers. Other rumors swirl about “magic mushrooms” being used on 70’s pizzas.

— All pizza dough is made daily from scratch. Crusts choices include a Whole Wheat Crust option or a Traditional Flour Crust in 9 inch, 12 inch or 16 inch pies

— Causal atmosphere, also offering Calzones, Subs and a Full Salad Bar

MUST EATS:

— THE SALAD BAR: We recommend the one trip salad bar deal, it will fill you up for sure ! No iceberg lettuce here, just some fresh Romaine Greens. Grab some of the many toppings including Tofu and Garbonzo Beans ! Ohh did we mention incredible in-house dressings too ??? Yeah … they got that.

The salad bar features Romaine lettuce, Tofu and Garbonzo Beans for openers

— THE LUNCH SPECIAL: Your choice of a slice of pizza with 2 toppings and one trip to the salad bar for $5.99. Tasty and filling!

— THE EGGPLANT SUB: Perfectly broiled slices of Eggplant, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and Ha Ha pizza sauce. Served with Mikesells Groovy chips, how appropriate !

— THE FALAFEL CALZONE:An interesting Garbonzo Bean mix, with green peppers, onions, HaHa Pizza Sauce and Mozzarella Cheese. This has to be a one of a kind, right?

— ARTICHOKE, SPINACH, PESTO, GARLIC and TURKEY SAUSAGE PIZZA: Want to try a delicious flavor combo? Try these 5 toppings on your pizza pie.

The bottom line, is this place is not a legend for nothing. Want a real Food Adventure? Try unique topping choices like bananas, water chestnuts, zucchini and falafel.

Whole Wheat Crust or White Flour Crust options on all pizzas

The Big Ragu and Crew are gonna try an anchovy and smoked oyster topping pizza next time for sure! Won’t you join us for a bite and a laugh at HA HA PIZZA???

Remember, we are not food critics, we are just 2 guys that love to eat. Want more from FOOD ADVENTURES? Then check out these “Miami Valley Foodies” and like them on Facebook HERE !

Check out our photo gallery below, showing off some of the numerous tasty meals we have had at Ha Ha Pizza. Have you been to Ha Ha? What is your take on local artist Tom Watson’s journey? Please comment below and be heard.

If you are interested in his artwork or a T-shirt feel free to contact the man, the myth, the legend, Tom Watson HERE ON FACEBOOK

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Anne Agoren and Izzi Bags to Headline A Weekend of (DE-FI)ance

February 15, 2014 By Dayton937 4 Comments

London born Anne Agoren of the Accessories Council, designer of Izzi Bags, Shorty Award Finalist, Media Personality, Fashion Writer, and NYC Socialite.

London born Anne Agoren, designer of Izzi Bags, Shorty Award Finalist, Media Personality, Fashion Writer, and NYC Socialite.

Trying to shine a spotlight on Dayton’s emerging fashion industry has been no easy task, whether it’s dealing with people who don’t take the industry seriously and dismiss it simply as vanity, to those who watch shows like Project Runway or America’s Next Top Model which just give a slight glimpse into how the industry really works, and those who simply don’t understand how embracing the fashion industry can be a huge boost for the local economy. Yet for the past 2 years, there has been a core group of area professionals, business owners, community leaders, and fashion insiders who have been working diligently to educate the community about the positive impact the fashion industry could have on Dayton, from producing quality events and products to showcase local talent, and helping those who have dreams to be a part of the fashion industry to reach their goals,and together this network is called the Dayton Emerging Fashion Incubator (DE-FI) LLC also known simply as (DE-FI).

Since our official Launch Party in July 2013, we’ve grown in numbers, reach, and we took on a more direct approach and by direct I mean, we went straight to the fashion capital of the world New York City. While I’m not at liberty to share the details of my work and experiences during the past two fashion week seasons, I can say that the Dayton area was blessed when Wright-Patt Air Force Base welcomed the family of Joshua Ladner to the area. Not only, has his presence had an instant impact on the growth of Downtown Dayton with the opening of the very popular #HairJourney at Salon J Ladner but he also brings with him additional experience in the world of fashion!! As a part of the Adam Project, Josh has spent the past few years being a part of almost every aspect of the production of New York Fashion Week from casting models for major designers, to show layouts, to working one on one with designers, and blogging.

Two weeks ago, Josh dropped a bombshell on me when he informed me that several high profile designer from NYC and London have committed to being a part of (DE-FI)ance Fashion Week taking place in May. Well, last week Josh and I hit the streets of New York City during Fashion Week and while we were there, he introduced me to Anne Agoren, designer of Izzi Bags, Shorty Award Finalist, and Fashion Writer. Over dinner at one of NYC most posh restaurants the Rogue Tomate, Josh and I shared the vision, direction, and work of (DE-FI) with Anne and colleague Sony Loren. To sum up the night, it ended with Anne and Sony saying they are all in and committed to not only showcasing during (DE-FI)ance Fashion Week but assisting with the of planning events!!

I wanted to give Anne a proper introduction to the people of Dayton and the Miami Valley areas and what better way to get to know someone than a Q & A session? So without further ado, introducing the newest member of Team (DE-FI) Anne Agoren!!

Q: Who is Anne Agoren? You came from humble beginnings and you are now a well-respected designer who takes the time to give back, why is giving back so important to you and why is it important for notable people like yourself to lend a hand to organizations like (DE-FI)?

A: Every day I get up and am thankful for who I am, where I am, and the opportunities that have been given to me. It has not been an easy journey, I have struggled through much heartbreak from two divorces, but been blessed with 3 fabulous boys, moved continents 3 times, had to learn another language just to survive. I had it all, lost it, and now trying once again to rebuild. When you suffer a knock back you just have to put on your big girl panties, put on your lipstick, and carry on.

Failure is not an option for me. Don’t think for one minute I am a hard faced business woman, I cry all the time when I am frustrated, when I am sad, when I am happy and that’s not a bad thing. I get very hurt by other people’s opinion and I wish sometimes I could let it run down my back as they say, but I am human, have feelings and can’t. The most important thing is to pick yourself up, brush yourself down and carry on to fight another day.

I really believe I have had the most amazing opportunities given to me, I have traveled all over the world and I want to help those that are less fortunate or who need a break. Let’s face it without a little bit of help from others the world can be a difficult place to be.

Q: How did you get your start in the fashion industry?

Izzi Bags are all hand made in Turkey. However, Anne is currently looking to bring production of Izzi Bags to the U.S.

A: When I got divorced I went to live in Cyprus, the Northern part which belongs to Turkey, I could not speak the language, I had no family or friends there and so I took a job working for a large European Design House overseeing the design, pattern making, cutting, stitching, packing and shipping. Can you imagine how hard that was when I couldn’t even communicate for over 6 months with a factory of over 300?

I went to school to learn to speak Turkish and I could actually say ” these buttons are not lined up” before I could order a glass of wine. This experience gave me the basis of what was to come in the following years. I owe a lot to the patient Turkish people who taught me well and as you can imagine I still have difficulty in keeping my hands by my sides because this was the only form of communication I had during the early stages of my fashion years. I also tend to talk loudly when I get excited about something, for some reason I believed the louder I spoke one day they would understand me!

Q: Who were your influences personally and professionally?

A: Professionally, I want to say the biggest influence over my career is probably Coco Chanel, she was a chic, sophisticated lady who never let the outside world get to her, she believed in what she did and ignored those that doubted her. I learned that lesson from her, one of her most famous quotations stands out for me “Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.”.

Personally, the person that has influenced me the most is my mother, when I was a child I would sit in her closet, with the door closed, in the dark, I would hold her leather handbags, I would caress them, smell the leather and I would dream that I was walking along Bond Street in London carrying one of her bags that they were in fact mine. When I used to leave the closet I would always mumble to the bags… “One day you will be mine”.

But the one person that has kept me going is my son, Steven, He had a rare form of cancer that only hits men, when I got the call from him, there are no words to describe that feeling for a mother and I can’t even begin to tell you what we as a family went through. But today I am so blessed, Thanks be to God that he is now cancer free, for that reason I get up every day and know that whatever is thrown at me I can get through it.

Q: What is Izzi Bags? Who is your target market, and when people think Izzi Bags what is the image that you want people to see or represent?

A: Izzi bag was created because like most women, I had and still have a great passion for handbags and every single woman I know looks for something different when buying one. I know that when you purchase your first Izzi bag you will come to understand how much love and respect we have put into each and everyone’s creation. As they are all hand crafted using a woven technology, from the finest leather available every single piece in the collection becomes slightly individual. My target market? Well, my answer to anyone that ask’s me that question is quite simply this “I had you in mind when I first put my pencil on the sketch pad”.

Q: Where are Izzi Bags currently produced?

Anne Interviews Tim Gunn of Project Runway on the Red Carpet for Ace Awards

A: As my journey in fashion began in Turkey, this is currently where they are made, but we are now working with other manufacturer’s in sampling to try and bring the production closer to home in the USA.

Q: Why is it so important for Fashion to be embraced in smaller markets like Dayton, OH? Why do you think the Midwest in general has gone untapped or overlooked by the Fashion industry?

A: Just because women or men for that matter do not live in Milan, London, Paris or New York should not mean they do not care about fashion and I believe that there are up and coming designers across the world in the smallest of villages who need to be embraced by the industry. I am all for helping, mentoring and speaking out to help these individuals. It does not matter what age you are, look at me I was over 40 before one Izzi bag was ever sold in the market place. I do not think I can generalize and say the “Midwest” has been untapped, I think across the world there are thousands of towns and areas that are in the same boat and it’s about time we opened the doors of opportunity to all.

Q: What were some of the struggles you faced as an emerging designer and what do you consider to be your “Big Break” that took you from being an emerging designer to an established designer?

A: For me the biggest struggle was getting buyers to see me, When I had my samples ready I would go by myself and knock on doors, I would go again and again and again. It was soul destroying when they sent me away. Having worked for a large company that is known worldwide I was suddenly there on my own. I could not afford a branding agent, a publicist or any help. I was the designer, the salesman, the tea maker.

The biggest break for me was when I was nominated and then a finalist at the Shorty Awards in New York. Bare in mind that at the time this happened to me was right at the beginning of twitter and there were only 17 million people on it compared with today 218 million!!!!! There I was a small brand in the final 6, no Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy, No Chanel, No Hermes, no Prada, No Gucci…that in itself was a major achievement and the Wall Street Journal even mentioned me in their post about the event.

The next morning my telephone rang off the hook, I was asked to talk at breakfasts, lunches, dinners about how I used Social Media to build a brand. From there I opened my second company that now teaches, advises and executes social media for small brands, large worldwide brands and celebrities. I really believe that you never know what tomorrow holds. My mother always says when one door closes you must circle the house to see which window is ajar.

Social Media has played a big part in building my brand, it has enabled me to have a world platform, how difficult it was years ago to get your name known on the other side of the world. Now in 140 characters or less you can communicate in a split second with someone 5000 miles away or in your own back yard!

Q: There are so many misconceptions about what the Fashion Industry is or what it represents, if there was one myth about the fashion industry that you could debunk what would it be and why?

Anne interviewing Constance White, former Editor in Chief of Essence Magazine at the Ace Awards.

A: One of the biggest misconceptions about fashion is that it costs a lot to look good…. that is rubbish, you can buy a few staple items and switch them around, add accessories and make the outfit look like a million dollars. These days a lot of the high street brands reel out season after season collections that resemble designer wear. Oscar Wilde once opined that “fashion is a form of ugliness so intolerable that we have to alter it every six months”. I disagree because I have pieces in my closet older than my 28 year old son and they are now called ‘vintage’ and worth more than the pieces I bought last week.

Q: What is the biggest mistake that most people make when trying to get their start in the industry?

A: Everybody thinks they are a designer they think it is so easy to just create a brand and run with it. It takes a lot of dedication, a lot of blood, sweat and tears. It really is not about how much money it takes, it is really about belief. I spent many nights without sleep, worrying would the industry and members of the public like my designs would they believe in me? It is easy to think we can all start our journey as Coach, LVMH or Gucci but in reality you must start small, build your brand and grow.

Anne and Celebrity Stylist Robert Verdi

Q: You’ve had the opportunity to speak one on one with some of Fashion’s most elite designers and personalities(Including Diane Von Furstenberg head of the Council for Fashion Designers of America) , how do you prepare yourself for their interviews and have you ever asked them for their advice or keys to their success? If so what was the best advice you’ve ever received?

A: I remember interviewing Christian Louboutin on the Red Carpet just over a year ago and I have to tell you that nothing could have prepared me for that opportunity. I seriously was like a giggly little school girl, I did not want the moment to pass. Izzi even bought me a pair of shoes to wear for the occasion which cost nearly $1000. I want you to know that was madness but Louboutin was impressed I was wearing them, but to be honest as soon as he passed by I took them off as they were so uncomfortable. I have never asked a celebrity or designer for their advice because I believe we are all in charge of our own destiny.

Q: What are you most excited about in terms of your participation and your role in helping to produce (DE-FI)ance Fashion Week?

A: I am excited for the (DE-FI)ance Fashion Week mainly as it is my chance to help you make a mark on the world’s fashion stage, I am really looking forward to being able to show that it does not matter how old you are, from what background you come from, you can achieve what you want with a little determination. I want to be able to convey my message to the young and old alike it is never too late and you are never too old to make it in life. I am really excited to walk on the runway in the Stylish Mom Show with my son a cancer survivor and I am really blessed that God spared him. He is an inspiration to all of us. Seeing Izzi bags on the runway will reduce me to tears, here I go again!

Q: What advice do you have for emerging designers ready to make their mark in the industry?

A: I have only two things to say to them: Believe in what you do and grow skin as thick as an elephant you are going to need it.

You can find out more information about Anne and Izzi bags by following her on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/izzibag‎ , http://blog.izzibag.com , and of course meet her in person during (DE-FI)ance Fashion Week! For more on the Dayton Emerging Fashion Incubator (DE-FI) LLC visit our website at http://www.daytonemergingfashionincubator.com or text “DEFI” to 55469. Tickets for (DE-FI)ance Fashion Week go on sale on March 8, 2014 at Salon J Ladner, American Pi, and Beaute Box. Casting Calls for models, designers, and volunteers take place on March 8, 2014 from 12p-2p at the St. Clair Lofts located at 35 S. St. Clair St., Dayton, OH 45402 right next to Salon J Ladner and American Pi.

Five for Drinking…Chocolate

February 13, 2014 By Brian Petro Leave a Comment

So much delicious, delicious chocolate…

Pink and red hearts, dinner, flowers, cards…all of the trappings of the perfect Valentine’s Day. The only thing that is missing is the chocolate. Last year, people bought 48 million pounds of chocolate, spending somewhere around $1.6 billion dollars on the sweet confection. Local favorites like Esther Price, Winan’s, Pure Madness, and Signature Confections look forward to this holiday, as it is the third largest holiday for buying chocolate of the year.

It is a little hard to believe that chocolate candy has only been around for 400 years.

Chocolate, while having a history that reaches back to the Aztecs, was enjoyed mostly as a bitter beverage by the ancient people of Mexico. It was not until the Spanish got a hold of it that it gained its sweet characteristics by adding milk, sugar, and a little cinnamon. That is what Europe fell in love with. Chocolate candies were made, but not common on incredibly good. The process to turn cocoa into the chocolate we enjoy by the heart shaped box was developed by John and Richard Cadbury (yes, of the crème egg fame) in the late 19^th century.

That box of chocolate you have? Why not add a nice cocktail to it? Here are five options for you to explore:

Alexander

1 oz. gin
1 oz. crème de cocoa
1 oz. light cream

Pour all of the ingredients into a mixing glass with ice. Shake well, then strain into a rocks glass.

The Alexander (and its cousin the Brandy Alexander) is a popular classic cocktail, first seen in 1915 in Recipes for Mixed Drinks by Hugo Ensslin. Gin was hugely popular at the time, and this delightful mixture uses the sweet chocolate and cream to balance the spices in the gin.

Candy is dandy, but liquor is quicker…

Oaxaca Chakas

4 oz. tequila
1.25 oz. agave nectar
2 cups whole milk
1/4 cup good-quality unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cinnamon stick
A pinch of salt
1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips

In a medium saucepan, heat milk with cocoa powder, cinnamon stick, agave nectar and salt, whisking constantly until it comes to a full boil. Remove from heat and add the chocolate, whisking gently until it’s completely melted. Remove cinnamon stick. Whisk until smooth. Spilt the tequila between two mugs, then fill the mugs with the chocolate mixture. Garnish it with whip cream and enjoy.

Tequila and chocolate have very similar histories; both started out as native drinks in Mexico, and both were altered by the Spaniards using European technology to better reflect European tastes. This is a rich and spicy treat perfect to warm up with on a cold night. Or to make with someone special.

Chocolate Strawberry Martini

1 oz. vanilla vodka
1 oz. strawberry liqueur
1 oz. chocolate liqueur
Cocoa powder, for garnish

Set a cocktail glass into the refrigerator to chill. Pour all of the ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice and shake briefly. Spread the cocoa powder on a small plate. Moisten the rim of the glass, and gently run the rim through the powder. Pour the mixture into the chilled cocktail glass and enjoy.

This is a cocktail with many, many, many variations, from the very simple to the incredibly complex. I would suggest Godiva Chocolate Liqueur and strawberry schnapps for an incredible flavor and mouth feel.

Cocoa during the roasting and grinding process.

From Russia with Love

1/2 ounce Dark Godiva Chocolate Liqueur
1/2 ounce raspberry liqueur
Champagne
Coco nibs, for garnish, optional

In a Champagne flute, pour the Godiva and the raspberry liqueur (Chambord is a great choice). Top with chilled Champagne. Sprinkle on a couple of nibs if you like.

What is Valentine’s Day without a little something special? Champagne is perfect for any celebration, and adding a little chocolate and raspberry can only enhance the enjoyment. It is an original from the famous Russian Tea Room in New York.

Liquid Snickers

1 oz. dark creme de cacao
1/2 oz. Irish cream
1/2 oz. Frangelico® hazelnut liqueur
1/2 oz. light cream
Pour creme de cacao, irish cream and frangelico liqueur over ice cubes in an old-fashioned glass. Top with light cream, stir and serve.

Sometimes you don’t want fancy chocolate. You want something comforting, nutty, and satisfying.

Author Karl Petzke once commented that “Chocolate symbolizes, as does no other food, luxury, comfort, sensuality, gratification, and love.” Is there a better sentiment to describe this Valentine’s Day staple? Cheers!

Behind the Scenes Tours @ National Museum of the U.S. Air Force

February 4, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Behind the Scenes Tours are regularly scheduled, free guided tours of the museum’s restoration area. Participants are shuttled to the restoration hangars, located about one mile from the main museum complex. Tours are offered every Friday (some exceptions) at 12:15 p.m. Advance registration is required. Sign up early as tours may fill up quickly! To register for tours through May 2014, submit a registration form or call (937) 656-9436. Additional instructions are included on the form.

Although advance registration may be full for a tour, a limited number of ‘stand-by’ registrations are available on the day of each tour. Please check with the information desk upon your arrival at the museum.

The next tour is happening this Friday February 07, 2014 from 12:15 AM – 12:00 PM.

Next tour dates:

Friday February 07, 2014
Friday February 14, 2014
Friday February 21, 2014
Friday February 28, 2014
Friday March 07, 2014

The National Museum of the United States Air Force collects, researches, conserves, interprets and presents the Air Force’s history, heritage and traditions, as well as today’s mission to fly, fight and win … in Air, Space and Cyberspace to a global audience through engaging exhibits, educational outreach, special programs, and the stewardship of the national historic collection. These statutory duties delegated by the Secretary of the Air Force are accomplished on behalf of the American People. We are the keepers of their stories.

Go out this Friday and experience a behind the scene tour of one of Dayton’s historic gems.

Food & Beer Pairings Announced for Moose & the Goose Dinner Event, Feb. 22

February 3, 2014 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Dont Miss the ‘Moose and The Goose’ event on Sat Feb 22

BULLWINKLE’S TOP HAT BISTRO and GOOSE ISLAND BREWING CO. have announced the 5 courses to be paired with 5 beers at the one-night-only Food Adventure event on Saturday Feb 22nd called “The MOOSE AND THE GOOSE.” The extravaganza will be held at Bullwinkle’s in Miamisburg at 7pm (tickets are pre-pay only).

Dayton Most Metro’s own THE BIG RAGU & The Crew are helping sponsor the event with the help of Heidelberg Distributing, Dayton Dining, Goose Island Brewery, and of course Bullwinkle’s Top Hat Bistro.

The Food Adventure courses are as follows (subject to change):

Course #1: HOUSE SALAD with homemade Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing paired with Goose Island’s TEN HILLS PALE ALE

Course #2: Homemade CLAM CHOWDER paired with Goose Island’s Beer called ‘SOFIE’

Course #3: REUBEN DIP / MOOSE TATERS CASSEROLE paired with Goose Island’s HONKER’S ALE

Course #4: BABY BACK PORK RIBS, PULLED PORK, GREEN BEANS, RED SKIN POTATOES paired with Goose Island’s beer called ‘MATILDA’

Course #5: BANANAS FOSTER prepared table side, with an option for CARROT CAKE substitute paired with Goose Island’s ‘PERE JACQUES’ Beer

Ribs are one of the featured courses

TICKET COST IS $30 and that INCLUDES GRATUITY !

****Please note: Tickets for this event are PRE-PAY ONLY and can be purchased only through THIS LINK at DAYTON MOST METRO.

SEATING IS LIMITED, get your tickets to this event before it SELLS OUT !

**There will be DOOR PRIZES, GIVEAWAYS, SOUVENIRS, SURPRISES, and an appearance by the GOOSE ISLAND GIRLS !

We may have some Goose Island 312 URBAN WHEAT Beer samples floating around and an AFTER PARTY Keg Tapping with Beer Specials.

This promises to be once heck of a FOOD ADVENTURE EVENT !! This is a one-time-only gig, so take advantage of this incredible deal !

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Library Seeks Entries in Teen Photography Contest

February 2, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

The Dayton Metro Library invites creative teens to show off their photography skills by entering the 2014 Teen Photo Contest sponsored by the Friends of the Library. Entries will be accepted February 3 through March 3, 2014, from any teen in grades 7-12 living in the greater Dayton area. The contest categories are Color, Black & White, Digital Enhancement and Phone Photo.

All photos must be submitted by email to [email protected]. Please put “Photo Contest Entry” in the subject line and include name, contact info, school, grade, photo title and category in the body of the email. Teens may enter up to three photos. If entering separate categories, please send separate emails.

All photos will be printed and placed on display in the Main Library’s auditorium and an awards/reception will be held on April 22. Prizes will be awarded for 1^st, 2^nd, and 3^rd place in each category. Winners will receive $100 for first place, $75 for second place, and $50 for third. Amy Kollar Anderson, Artist and Gallery Coordinator for the Rosewood Gallery, will judge the entries and select the winners.

A popular choice award will also be offered. All viable entries into the contest will be featured on Pinterest and votes can be cast by liking a picture (with a Pinterest login). The Pinterest link will be announced in early March. The winners of the Popular Choice Award in each category will win a $25 gift card to a photo store.

Questions about this contest can be sent to Elaine Fultz, Teen Specialist – [email protected] or call 937-496-8510

The Dayton Metro Library is one of the oldest and largest public library systems in Ohio, consistently ranking among the best in the nation. The DML consists of 20 branch locations in Montgomery County, Outreach Services and the Main Library in downtown Dayton. In order to fulfill its mission to inform, inspire and enrich the community, the DML offers programs, materials and services for all ages and stages of life. It is funded in part by a portion of the state income tax and local levy support. Specialized services and resources are available for schools, small businesses, nonprofit organizations, literacy providers and job seekers. The library houses a unique collection of local history materials. Computers are available free of charge for public use and computer instruction is available at many library locations. In November, 2012, Montgomery County voters passed a $187 million bond issue to fund new construction and renovations for the DML. Highlights of the multi-phase, multi-year project include consolidating branches from 20 to 16, establishing an offsite operations center and completely renovating the Main Library. When the project is complete in 2017, library users will enjoy modern, efficient facilities providing superior services and technology for the 21st century. Progress on the project is posted regularly on the DML website atDaytonMetroLibrary.org.

Ronen Koresh and a Fresh Choreographic Vision for DCDC

January 30, 2014 By Rodney Veal Leave a Comment

Choreography that combines technical agility, emotional resonance and visceral impact; there are few choreographers working today with this level of acumen. This makes seeing the work of Ronen Koresh, being set on Dayton Contemporary Dance Company, all the more necessary.

Ronen (Roni) comes to the International dance scene via early training in folk dancing in the Yemenite tradition in his native Israel. Ronen actively pursued his dance training in Israel while serving his three year enlistment in the Israeli army. In 1983 he left for the United States to actively pursue his dance training and career. He is a multi-year recipient of fellowships from the Pew Charitable Trusts, the Philadelphia College of Performing Arts and the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts. While he has his own namesake company, he is also a highly sought after choreographer and teacher renowned for his choreographic inventiveness and transformative teaching skills; That will be on full display February 8th and 9th at DCDC’s winter concert.

Check out the following youtube clips and you will see why he was selected to create work for this seminal moment in the forty -five year history of the one artistic institution in our community with well deserved international credentials.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BHPd95IJ2Rg&list=UU2b9I5D1i1R7xaW-eJHr1iQ&feature=share&index=2′]

And also check out http://youtu.be/HI8ZB1p8Vdw.

This gives you a point of entry to the choreographer’s aesthetics and movement vocabulary. Brave the weather forecasts and get tickets to what promises to be must see art event.

ReVisioning 45: New Works Unveiled
Saturday, February 8, 2014 at 7:30pm and Sunday, February 9, 2014 at 3:00pm
Victoria Theatre, 138 North Main Street, Dayton, Ohio 45402
For tickets to ReVisioning 45: New Works Unveiled please contact Ticket Center Stage at 937-228-3630 or 888-228-3630 or www.ticketcenterstage.com.

The MOOSE & THE GOOSE: Exclusive FOOD ADVENTURE EVENT Feb 22nd !!

January 29, 2014 By Dayton937 5 Comments

Get your tickets now, because THE BIG RAGU & Crew have done it again. Along with DaytonMostMetro they have put together another one-of-a-kind, one night only extravaganza called “THE MOOSE and THE GOOSE.” This time we team up BULLWINKLES TOP HAT BISTRO and GOOSE ISLAND BEER COMPANY for and incredible 5 course dinner with 5 beer pairings !

WHAT: 5 Course Dinner and 5 Beer Pairings = one heck of a Food Adventure night

WHERE: BULLWINKLE’S TOP HAT BISTRO in MIAMISBURG (19 N. Main St., Miamisburg, OH 45342) in the upstairs private party room

WHEN: Sat, Feb 22nd 7pm – 9:30pm with a special “after party keg tapping” from Goose Island with drink specials

COST: $30 per ticket -INCLUDES GRATUITY !!
Purchase your tickets online now!
Tickets are limited, and once they are sold out, THEY ARE SOLD OUT !

WHAT ELSE: DOOR PRIZES, SOUVENIRS, GIVEAWAYS, and the GOOSE ISLAND GIRLS ! Who knows what other surprises are in store !!

TICKETS ARE ONLY AVAILABLE HERE AT THIS LINK and WILL BE WAITING FOR YOU AT THE FRONT DESK the night of the event !

Don’t miss this exclusive FOOD ADVENTURE EVENT with THE BIG RAGU & CREW !!

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The 2014 Food Adventure GUIDE to Dayton’s Fish Frys

January 17, 2014 By Dayton937 1 Comment

Fish fry season is upon us, so look no further than Dayton Most Metro.
For the schedule of local fish frys click here.

The Food Adventure Crew never does anything half baked (or fried in this instance).

Food Adventures has got you covered with a full breakdown of every Catholic Fish Fry in the Miami Valley, 16 of them in all !! No cut and paste event info here, we walk the walk, and chowed down at every event!

You know the drill, all-you-can-eat fish dinners, beer, condiment tables, silent auctions, raffle tickets and casino games. So which ones are the best ??

Answer: They all have their appeal, and special draw, but FOUR of them really stood out.

Ladies and Gentlemen, here are the “SWEET SIXTEEN,” our guide to Dayton’s 2014 Catholic Fish Frys:

Our Lady of the Rosary, Our Favorite Fish Fry

Food Adventures jumps at any chance to support Dayton causes, and with Big Ragu being Catholic, we bought tickets to every fish fry in town. We will list our favorites aka the “FANTASTIC FOUR FISH FRYS”, then list the others in random order and what makes each fish fry special.

THE FANTASTIC FOUR FISH FRYS:

1) OUR LADY OF THE ROSARY–22 Notre Dame Ave.

This one was the grand daddy of them all and our favorite fish fry. For the past 52 years they have held fish frys, making this probably the oldest one in Dayton, This church holds fish frys from Sept – February before the Lenten season. The staff is wonderful and our friend Amy even took us on a tour of the church. A friendly cook named Joseph makes all of the delicous, homemade desserts himself. We know because we tried them all. This church has a heavy influence of Polish, Lithuainian, Hungarian, and German parishioners. These events have a loyal following of regulars like our pal Ron who drove all the way from Wilmington, Ohio to attend. The Monte Carlo was fun and food was great. We especially like the fact that the draft beer is unlimited in the 12 dollar price, along with fresh sausages, Icelandic cod. In our book, this fish fry is Dayton’s best.

Holy Trinity, Great Hospitality and Delicious Food

2) HOLY TRINITY CHURCH – 272 Bainbridge St.

This was a fish fry where everyone seemed to know each other. The crowd was small, but friendly and tight knit. The food was absolutely amazing. The cod was cooked to perfection and hand cut on site. One of the attractions is they use the Old Focke’s Meats recipe for Waldorf sausages. We enjoyed the old church located near the Oregon District, downtown. One unique part of this event is that this church offered an alcohol free family fish fry from 4pm-5:30pm for kids, then had the adult party after. Three beer tickets are given with paid admission. The atmosphere, great food and hospitality makes this one of the best fish frys in the Miami Valley.

Vic Woeste, 87 year old icon of St Mary’s Church

3) ST MARY CATHOLIC CHURCH: 310 Allen St.
Here we find the best story told at a fish fry. We sat near 87 year old Vic Woeste, an icon of the St Mary’s community who has been dealing casino games at the fish frys for the past 36 years. His entire family is involved in the church down to 3 generations. He told us he remembered a fish fry in 1960 where funds were used to buy the nuns a Ford Fairlane car who lived in the convent across the street. Oh the memories! Vic is looking forward to his 70th class reunion at Chaminade this year. He said it will be held in a telephone booth, since not many classmates are left. Vic also said he was baptized and married at St Mary’s. He recalls Father Ken Henz telling parishoners decades ago that he hatches, matches and dispatches loyal parishoners. Vic was a great man to talk to, indeed. This church group is so charitable that even the volunteers buy tickets as they enter. to help raise money for the boiler fund, beers were sold for 25cents and an extra 1 dollar donation got you a dessert. Again this event saw over 3 generations working the fish fry and over 300lbs of fish cooked and eaten.

4) CORPUS CHRISTI CHURCH – 527 Forest Ave.

The Corpus Christi Fryers Charitable Organization

This event was another fantastic fish fry for $15. It included all you want food and draft beer, we like those rules. The crowd was very friendly and it was obvious that many in attendance were close friends. This fish fry offered a healthy alternative of baked fish, along with the fried fish choices. The bustling atmosphere included 3 different dining areas. This particular fish fry has been going on for 25 years. The event is partially run by the “Corpus Christi Fryers.” They are a charitable group that donates time, manpower and money into running this event to help the church’s cause. The fish fry workers could not have been nicer, and the food was terrific. It was great to see a diverse group from all walks of life coming together for a good cause.

St Peter’s offered Onion Rings and Hot Dogs on their Saturday night Fish Fry

Here are the rest in random order, and what we loved about each Fish Fry!
ST PETER’S CHURCH – 6161 Chambersburg Rd

This event was $15 at door, and was packed. The line wrapped around the gym, but the wait was worth it. The food was delicious and the offerings were not only beer battered codfish, but onion rings, chicken wings, and huge hot dogs. What was even more amazing, is that one or two women seemed to be stocking the whole table for the hundreds of hungry people. The casino area featured unique games such as horse races. We also loved the fact that they offered Yuengling Black and Tan Beer. This was a fun and well attended event. Tip: come early and avoid the huge crowds.

The decor at St Charles’ Fish Fry was Beautiful

ST CHARLES BORROMEO – One of the area fish fry’s run by the Hecht family volunteers. The fish was hot and fresh. highlights included the fantastic Saint Patty’s day decor theme. Some people really put some hard work into those decorations. Along with the tasty fish, a few beer tickets were included in the $15 price. Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy beer was available on tap. This fish fry also offered a “pre-event” that was family friendly and where kids were allowed to attend until 6pm. The eating area was offered in the school cafeteria while the casino games were in the gym.

Cold Beer at the Carrol Fish Fry

CARROLL HIGH SCHOOL – Located at 4524 Linden Ave

This event was $16 to attend and included 5 beer tickets. The unique thing about this fish fry was the sheer choices of fish. They offered 3 kinds of fish. Choices were regular fried, Cajun fried, or baked fish. There were no fries in sight at this fish fry. Instead menu items included baked beans, cole slaw and potato salad. There was a huge choice of desserts at this event. A couple of long tables were filled with homemade pies, cakes, brownies and more. This event was steady and the environment was immaculately clean.

ST LUKE’S CHURCH – 1440 N. Fairfield Rd.

This fish fry was entirely kid friendly. The cost was 9 dollars for adults and $3.50 for children. No alcohol was served. The event was run by the Knights of Columbus a charity organization that benefits local families. The fish that was fried was cod from local distributor Foremost Seafood. There was also no gambling at this event. It was obvious that this fish fry was more about the family experience. They actually hold two fish frys, one in February and on in March. It should also be mentioned that the Ladies Auxillary made all of the desserts which were fantastic!

CHAMINADE JULIENNE HIGH SCHOOL – 505 S. Ludlow St.

Holy Angels Fish Fry Volunteers

This fish fry held at the High School, had a pretty good attendance. The fish was great and there were huge sheet cakes and brownies as well. We even saw one of the cooks bring out some nice cupcake pastries. Although a fairly new fish fry, this one is run with efficiency.

HOLY ANGELS CHURCH – 1322 Brown Street
This fish fry is in its 12th year. The volunteers Matt, Ruth, Denise, Leila were very friendly and greeted the crowds with a smile. Prices were 15 bucks at door and included soft drinks and all the beer you wanted as well. Get there early for this event, because parking is limited and you may get stuck parking across the other side of State route 48. Delicious haddock was the fried fish served to the hungry visitors. We really loved the fact that the beer was unlimited, and we didn’t have to fool around with drink tickets.

ST ALBERT THE GREAT – 104 W. Dorothy Lane

Three Generations of the Hecht/Sierschula Family helping work the St Albert Fish Fry !

This event was $15 advance or $20 at door. They served some tasty, fried Icelandic cod. Like other fish frys, they had a carryout option for 9 bucks. This event had a ton of volunteers, mostly we saw in kitchen. We saw the raw fish being thawed, cut, dredged then deep fried by the Hecht Family, who runs a few of the area fish frys. In fact we saw that there were at least 3 generations of the family at the event. this event, casino earnings and raffle money all benefited the athletics. It helps to buy uniforms and keep students cost to participate as low as possible. We were told that for 40 years this event has been held and many run by the Hecht family. Attendance price included 5 beer tickets.

ST ANTHONY’S CHURCH– 830 Bowen St.

The church was celebrating it’s 100th year anniversary in 2013. The fish fry has not been around more than a decade or 2, but the place was packed. The entrance showed off a silent auction area and the casino games. Lines formed to get the fish and the cafeteria served as the eating place. The fish was so fresh and hot, that you had to let your plate cool. the staff was working hard and feeding the hungry event attendees. It was obvious that the workers took pride in this event and made it a fun and friendly atmosphere.

ST HENRY’S CHURCH– 6696 N. Springboro Pike

Event was held in the “Father Stretch Center.” The cost at the door was 15 bucks. The head priest Father Tom was greeting the attendees in the dining area. The fish served was large pieces of fried Haddock. The volunteers were friendly and the fish was light and flaky. Some of the better fried fish around was served here. The event also featured a large silent auction area.

INCARNATION PARRISH– 55 Williamsburg Ln.

Mounds of Fish Ready for Breading at the Alter Fish Fry

This event gets packed. The crowds are big, so get there early. Like many fish frys they offer a carryout option, but with no discount. There was a large silent auction area, and many signs hung in the gymnasium featuring sponsors of the fish fry. Admission was 15 dollars and the fish served was fried Icelandic cod. Again, we saw some familiar faces of the Hecht family preparing the food for the masses. There is also a large choice of casino games at this well attended Parrish.

ALTER HIGH SCHOOL – 940 E. David Rd.

This fish fry draws the biggest crowds of all the area fish frys. Sometimes the line can be an hour wait. Our tip, get there early and plan on making an evening of it. The casino games are crowded, but there are many to choose from. There is even a high limit gambling area! Admission is 15 bucks and comes with 3 beer tickets. they have amped up the event recently by offering some craft beers for sale. This event usually has a huge silent auction, and you may even see current NY Jets Center Nick Mangold among the attendees. Again the Hecht family is responsible for the fish here, so you know you can expect big pieces of freshly cooked fish.

ST FRANCIS OF ASSISI -6245 Wilmington Pike

This was a very organized fish fry put on dozens of volunteers from the church. We liked the fact that they had baked fish as a choice as well as the typical fried fish. The dining area was crowded, so get to this one early. This was simply a beautiful church with a fun atmosphere at the fish fry.

NOW YOU KNOW !

Only here, can you see the most comprehensive Dayton fish fry summary known to man. Food Adventures knows because we ate it all!

Make sure that you scroll through the photo album below featuring every single fish fry.
On a side note, some of the church websites do not have the greatest information about the fish frys. For that reason, make sure you stay tuned to DaytonMostMetro and Dayton Dining for all the dates and times of future fish frys.

The bottom line here is that each Lenten season, Daytonians should take advantage of the great events and support some local churches. The fish frys are friendly and welcome all denominations of faith. It is about fun times and good causes. all-you-can eat So swim on to the next Food Adventure !

WHICH AREA FISH FRYS ARE YOUR FAVORITE? DID WE MISS ANY ? PLEASE COMMENT BELOW !

For more Fish fry photos from Food Adventures, click HERE ! link to [flagallery gid=34 name=Gallery]

Restaurants Closed But Not Forgotten – Part 2

January 9, 2014 By Dayton937 21 Comments

The Upper Krust Centerville Location

As the new year dawns, we ask “Should old acquaintance be forgot and never brought to mind?” Well not when it comes to Food Adventures! In this week’s installment, The Food Adventures Crew take you on a trip of years gone by. We call it “Restaurants Closed But Not Forgotten.”

IMPORTANT: This article is a follow up to one posted last year. Before you comment saying “you forgot this place,” please make sure it wasn’t mentioned in our very popular “CLOSED BUT NOT FORGOTTEN RESTAURANTS PART 1” (click here to view).

Let’s dive right into some of “Dayton Restaurants that are Closed but not Forgotten” (part 2).

THE UPPER KRUST – Legendary sandwich shop with locations on North Main Street and in Woodbourne Village in Centerville near 48 and Whipp Rd. Who can forget the “Tom Turkey” sandwich or the choice of beets, chips or apple sauce.

TALL TIMBERS – This old style “supper club” on Troy Pike in Huber Heights, was known for steaks. It was actually in an old building built by Benjamin Van Cleve in 1916. Approximately 25 years ago, a fire closed the restaurant once and for all. We remember dining there as kids and using the “Entertainment” coupon for a free entree.

LAWSON’S – These milk stores/convenient stores were all over the Dayton area in the 70’s, and even had delis inside. Lawson’s was a Cleveland based company.

SAMPAN – On Webster Street, this oriental restaurant was one of the first ones in Dayton. They had those cool 70’s style, steel serving plates.

Remember Lawson’s Convenient Stores??

TONY’S DUNKER’S DELIGHT DONUTS – Near the corner of Stroop and Marshall Rd in Kettering, this place had a cult following.

PEKING INN – This spot was known for their signature dish “Peking Duck” and serving dinners in hot metal covered dishes. Peking Inn was located on 725 near the middle of Centerville and is now “Las Piramedes” Mexican restaurant.

PONDEROSA STEAKHOUSE – They used to be all over the place in the 70’s and early 80’s. Who could forget the metal topped wooden plates and the damn buttery rolls! Sliding your tray down the cafeteria line, watching them cook steaks, and visiting the trough salad bar. You can still visit one on Airway Rd. for old times sake.

CHIN’S ORIENTAL CAFE / CHIN’S GINGER GRILL – A fixture in downtown Dayton and in Tipp City, It was hard to see these 2 locations go. For decades, Daytonians enjoyed these restaurants that were definitely ahead of their time. Facility issues and lack of business, as well as an owner who wanted to retire, led to the closing of the Downtown Dayton location in 2003. The Tipp City eatery would follow in the next few years.

THE COLONY CLUB – Old school supper club, full bar, but we got “Shirley Temples.”, They were known for their hopping atmosphere as well as steaks and seafood. The Big Ragu took a dinner date there during school dances in the mid 80’s.

Muscle Cars & Good Burgers at Hamburger Heaven on Woodman Dr.

URBAN SUBURBAN TAVERN: Remember the Butcher paper signs on the wall with the weekly specials written on them? Owned by Dayton icon Urban Goeke, this spot was a popular destination in the early 80’s. Located near Marshall Rd and Stroop, specialties included, steaks, seafood and burgers. Good prices and great values, this establishment was bought out by the owners of Elsa’s and converted to a Kettering Elsa’s location. Not many people know that Urban Suburban was the first Dayton restaurant to serve buffalo style chicken wings.

HAMBURGER HEAVEN: This spot was a popular oldies car drive in destination on the weekends on Woodman Dr in a converted Red Barn restaurant. They were known for their burgers, especially a huge creation called “The Galaxy Burger” which we loved.

BOBO CHINA – Little spot on Bigger Rd that used to be a Burger Chef and a Chucks Burgers and Stuff. They had great egg rolls and one of the first buffets in town.

BOSCO’S / THE OAKS – Dart throwing, beer swilling, and live band watching pubs located at the corner of Bigger Rd and Hewitt Ave. Big volleyball events and summer parties were also hallmarks here. The spots were vacated and made way for the latest restaurant to close at the same location, Italian eatery, Arthur’s.

THE MANDARIN KITCHEN – Formerly located at S. Ludlow, this restaurant was owned by celebrity chef Ming Tsai’s parents. This restaurant was known for its “Yu Shang” dishes and twice cooked pork.

TALEGATORS – Freshly demolished to make way for a new McDonalds, this place had some stellar wings, especially the sweet chili wings. The sauce would make you smack your lips and smack your momma too. Known for their live music and bar specials as well, this place had a cult following.

Talegators: Incredible wings ! Gone but not Forgotten…

THE SAVORY – An underrated steakhouse at 2335 Smithville Rd. that was in an old “A” frame building that was obviously an IHOP or Howard Johnson’s. Cozy atmosphere, good food… The spot later became the first Cadillac Jacks !

PIZZA QUEEN INTERNATIONAL – Opened in 1978, by the Castro family, this place served pizzas from locations in West Carrollton and on Marshall Rd in Kettering. In the earl 1990’s, the family decided to close the pizza shops and turn the West Carrollton location in into El Meson Restaurant which is still operating today under the same ownership. Even though we love El Meson, we still miss Pizza Queen to this day!

SCOTTY’S HAMBURGERS – This place was very similar to White Castle, but with a diner feel inside. The Big Ragu specifically remembers eating at the location on N. Fairfield Rd that would later become Bud Frantz’ Fairfield Inn and BR Scoteses’s.

BUD FRANTZ’ FAIRFIELD INN – Family restaurant known for big portions and decent prices. Chicken and steak were the specialties. This spot later became BR Scotese’s.

B. R. SCOTESE’S – Chef David Glynn opened this restaurant as a tribute to his grandfather. The place had some terrific Italian specialties, but unfortunately went out of business in the 90’s.

Daytonians Loved Parkmoor Chicken in the 60’s

LAI LAI – Chinese restaurant near Woodman and Dorothy Lane intersection. They were one of the first Chinese restaurants to use coupons to lure customers and lunch crowds.

BOB’S FOOD WAREHOUSE – This grocer on Woodman Dr. in Kettering was a pre-cursor to Sam’s club. They had great prices and bulk items, but you had to bag your own stuff in their boxes. Kind of a local GFS … Wrestling magazines and pulled pork were among the items sold.

THE PARKMOOR – Dixie Style Chicken, this drive-in diner was a popular Daytonian stop in the 50’s and 60’s. To this day, people talk about their chicken. Miss that taste? Well, the rumor is that Hasty Tasty Pancake House still offers the original Parkmoor Recipe Chicken today !

DUKE’S GOLDEN OX – When the owner of the place is a fixture at the bar, you know this is a special eatery. Duke’s was original from the A-frame architecture to the drink menu. Known for their steaks and ribs, we loved the bbq sauce that was almost sweet and tomato like. The ambiance was an old school supper club mixed with a palm readers lair. It was spooky, yet cool inside, and you didn’t know what time of day it was outside, as we don’t remember the place having any windows.

WAREHOUSE BEER DRIVE-IN – The first chain of Dayton drive-thru’s with incredible Soft Pretzels. Many drive-ins around the area today are just old Warehouse Beer Drive-ins.

STEVE KAO’S – An early, local version of PF Changs, this restaurant was very popular in the 80’s. Unfortunately inconsistent food quality led to diminishing business causing this spot to close. Their Kung Pao choices were terrific and they had some great appetizers too.

DRIFTWOOD BOWLING LANES – You wouldn’t think that a Bowling Lane would have good food, but this one did. This place even had waitresses! The cabbage rolls and Hot Shot sandwiches drew good lunch crowds.

PIETRO MAURO’S ITALIAN DELI – Located on Bigger Rd across from the Victoria’s Secret call center, this family owned Italian deli had great breads, cheeses and old world specialties. From desserts, to stuffed peppers, to great sub sandwiches, we were sorry to see this place go out of business.

THE DUTCH PANTRY – We like to describe this as an old time, Amish version of Bob Evans. Dayton had a few locations including Springfield and Englewood. Food Adventures enjoyed the waitresses’ old fashioned, Dutch outfits.

RYANS STEAKHOUSE – The moist bread rolls and the deep fried okra first stole the heart of Daytonians in the 80’s. The closest ones left are in Columbus and Marion, Ohio. So you can still grab yourself a fork and enter the trough !

VITO’S – An Italian restaurant located on Dorothy Lane near Delco Park. They were known for their simple pasta dishes and quality, family owned feel. We miss the manicotti !

SHADES OF JADE – The huge “Pu Pu Platter” appetizer sampler was a signature dish of this Chinese restaurant across from Wright State. Fun decor including running fountains added to dining experience here.

MYUNG SUNG – This Huber Heights Chinese restaurant was memorable with a seating area where you could sit on the floor.

THE BBQ HUT – The 298-RIBS phone number, the Broasted Chicken, potatoes and BBQ Specialties made this place a fixture on Wilmington Pike in Kettering. They gave you that little dinner roll with each meal, that for some reason with a slab of butter was absolute heaven.

When a place had RIBS in their phone number, you know it was good

THE VENETIAN – Great pizzas in this small spot on Stroop Rd. which is now Mama DiSalvos Restaurant! The stepped up area in the back of the dining room housed a pool table. They had great french fries too !!

DANIELS PARK ROW – They had the best shrimp scampi on earth. This restaurant on Patterson Rd. was a throwback to the 50’s supper clubs where women would wear mink coats to dinner. Good food, dark atmosphere.

AL & JOE’S FOODTOWN – Grocery store that was your typical 60’s grocery. No frills, and the place always smelled like freshly sliced deli meat.

LATITUDE 49 – Centerville eatery where the Melting Pot is now. Latitude 49 had some of the best calamari in the world. We loved the aquarium decor and miss that place to this day.

BAYOU CAFE – The first Cajun restaurant in Dayton was a late 80’s venture. This was the first place that your Food Adventurers tried alligator ! The spicy, cajun shrimp was fantastic too. This site was most recently a Fox n Hound and Harrigans South, as well as a BBQ place.

There was a York Steakhouse inside the Dayton Mall

GARTSKA’S – This Greek based eatery was a fixture in Bellbrook for many years. Though the restaurant is gone, we haven’t forgotten their diverse menu and many incredible dishes.

ALEX’s CONTINENTAL INN – Dancing and music accompanied great food. They had a couple of streaks, but finally closed within the last couple of years. The first time Big Ragu ate lobster in a restaurant was here.

CAMBRIDGE INN – Old style English cafeteria in Centerville, very reminiscent of Neil’s Heritage House.

YORK STEAK HOUSE – Located inside the Dayton mall, this cafeteria style steakhouse served items “a la carte.” From Steaks to Seafood, this national chain was a staple in the Dayton Mall for many years, and was located just inside the entrance.

EMPIRE FAMILY RESTAURANT – Popular family spot on the corner of County Line Rd and Dorothy Lane. After closing in the early 90’s it became a great Chinese restaurant called “China House” which also closed a few years later.

CHINA HOUSE – They served one of the best dishes we have ever tried called Walnut Shrimp. Surprisingly, the location closed unceremoniously a few years ago, without warning. It was located very close to The Greene.

SUTTMILLER’S – An old school supper club on N. Main. This Dayton icon’s standard was 70’s food and 70’s hairstyles.

We miss Chmiel’s, a Family Owned Grocery in Centerville

THE MEAT HOUSE – Where’s the beef? Everyone at the corner of Stroop and Marshall Rd in Kettering knew this was the meat house. Whether chicken, pork or steaks they had it all here. Also, this was one of the first places in Dayton where you could buy pre-formed hamburger patties.

SWEETHEARTS – Ice cream and video game place that we visited as kids. These were some of our first Food Adventures alone.

GRINDSTONE CHARLEY’S – One of the casualties of the TGI FRIDAYS type restaurant wars. We guess they couldn’t compete with the clones like O’Charley’s.

CHMIEL’S – Family grocery store in Centerville with a fantastic bakery. Located on 725, it is now a “Big Lots” store.

The Dayton area had so many good restaurants that are gone, BUT NOT FORGOTTEN ……. Being lifelong Miami Valley residents, our memories of these places will live in our stomachs forever.

DID WE MISS A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS STORY or OUR FIRST INSTALLMENT LAST YEAR (click here to see).????? WHICH ONES DID WE LEAVE OUT ???

Please comment below with your memories of these places, or any other you would like to mention!

Want more fun with The Food Adventures Crew? Then check out their Facebook page and “like” them HERE !

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Ring in the New Year with First Friday Fun

December 30, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Jan. 3 First Friday to Feature Art Exhibits, Live Music, Ice Skating & More

Downtown’s next free First Friday event will be held from 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, Jan. 3.

Several businesses will offer post-holiday shopping sales and discounts. Students can represent their schools during a School Pride Ice Skate at RiverScape MetroPark and the monthly Courteous Mass bike ride will seek to light up the night.

Details are below about other events taking place at participating locations during the Jan. 3 First Friday.

Art

• CADC, 45 S. St. Clair St.: Featuring an after-holidays close-out sale with appetizers and eggnog to snack on while shopping. Call 313-9883.

• Clash Consignment, 521 E. Fifth St.: Showing art exhibit Sight Sizeby Adam Mitchell and Stephanie Riolo with live music by the Left Hooks. Call 241-9434.

• Color of Energy, 16 Brown St.: (Open until 8 p.m.) Reception with Abby Rose who will discuss her involvement in the art community and her new position as events director for Mike Elsass. Call 266-3491.

• Dayton Art Institute, 456 Belmonte Park North: (Open until 8 p.m.)Showing the exhibits Object of Devotion and A Buckeye Abroad: Frank Wilcox in Paris. Call for cost. 223-4278.

• Dayton Society of Painters and Sculptors, 48 High St.: (Open until8 p.m.) Exhbiting work from new members and serving light refreshments. Call 228-4532.

• Dayton Visual Arts Center 118 N. Jefferson St.: (Open until 8 p.m.) Exhbiting paintings by Zachary Armstrong. Call 224-3822.

• Gallery 510 Fine Art, 508 E. Fifth St.: Featuring new artwork and gifts by a variety of artists. Call 672-6717.

• Olive, an Urban Dive, 416 E. Third St.: Hosting “Buy It off the Wall,’ featuring the up-close nature photography of Diane Stava available for purchase, and offering Esther Price hot chocolate to go. Also featuring Olive’s new winter menu. Call 222-3483.

Music

• Blind Bob’s, 430 E. Fifth St.: Featuring happy hour from 4 to 8 p.m., $2.50 well drinks, 75 cents off bourbon and other drink specials. Music by Cherry Lee and the Hotrod Hounds, and The Sandwich. Call 938-6405.

• De’Lish Café, 139 N. Main St.: Featuring happy hour from 4 to 7 p.m. during a mix and mingle with downtown business professionals. Call 461-2233.

• Dublin Pub, 300 Wayne Ave.: Featuring happy hour until 6 p.m., a performance by the Miami Valley Pipe and Drum group starting at 6 p.m., and live music from Mothergrove starting at 9 p.m. Call 224-7822.

• Gilly’s, 132 S. Jefferson St.: Old Skool Groove Night from 8 p.m. to midnight. Call 228-8414.

• Oregon Express, 336 E. Fifth St.: Featuring half-price pizza from 4 to 8 p.m. and live music by Linda Prevo and South Side Slackers from8:30 p.m. Call 223-9205.

• Trolley Stop, 530 E. Fifth St.: Live music starting at 9:30 p.m. and happy hour from 4 to 7 p.m. Call 461-1101.

Food and Drink

• Deaf Monty’s Wine, 22 Brown St.: $2 tastings of select wines. Call 225-9463.

• Franco’s Ristorante Italiano, 824 E. Fifth St.: 10 percent off food. Call 222-0204.

• Lucky’s Taproom and Eatery, 520 E. Fifth St.: Dinner specials, along with the special tapping of a firkin of craft beer. Call 222-6800.

• Riff Raff Tavern on the Canal, 130 N. Patterson Blvd.: Drink specials offered throughout the night. Call 361-3131.

• Salar, 400 E. Fifth St.: DJ in the lounge and drink specials starting at10 p.m. Call 203-3999.

• Smokin’ Bar-B-Que, 200 E. Fifth St.: 10 percent off food. Call 586-9790.

• Thai 9, 11 Brown St.: 15 percent off food. Call 222-3227.

• Uno Chicago Grill, 126 N. Main St.: 10 percent off food. Call 910-8000.

Entertainment

• Don Crawford Plaza in front of Fifth Third Field, 220 N. Patterson Blvd.: The monthly Courteous Mass Ride will meet at 5:30 p.m. This month will be a glow-ride. Dress up your bike with lights, wear glow bracelets or necklaces — anything to make you glow. All tours are free and welcome any skill level.

• Grass Roots Enrichment and Wellness Center, 400 E. Fifth St., Suite C: (Open until 8 p.m.) Featuring teen artist Sarah Libassi, along with activities for families and light refreshments. Call 723-6747.

• The Neon, 130 E. Fifth St.: Call 222-SHOW (7469) for films and show times.

• RiverScape MetroPark, MetroParks Ice Rink, 111 E. Monument Ave: School Pride Night Ice skate from 7 to 10 p.m.; $7 includes admission and skate rental; half-priced admission available with student ID. Call 278-2607.

• Wiley’s Comedy Niteclub, 101 Pine St.: Featuring comedian Steve Lott. Shows begins at 9 p.m. Tickets are $12 per person. Call 224-5653.

Shopping

• American Pi, 41 S. St. Clair St.: Featuring a store-wide 50 percent off sale (contact store for details). Call 938-7890.

• Beaute Box, 116 W. Fifth St.: Free makeup lessons. Call 903-3165.

• Found Treasures 4 You, 502 Wayne Ave.: Offering 20 percent off everything in the store. Call 580-8803.

• ReCreate, 438 E. Fifth St.: Sale on select items, including new and used instruments, other music-related items, and original artwork. Call 321-3517.

• Sew Dayton, 261 Wayne Ave.: Offering 10 percent off all independent patterns and sweet treats from the 2nd street market. Call 234-7398.

• Sherwood Florist, 444 E. Third St.: (Open until 8 p.m.) Offering 10 percent off all in-store items. Call 298-3655.

• Spice Paradise, 8 Brown St.: Offering samples of Indian food to visitors. Call 224-3227.

Come out to enjoy all the best that Dayton has to offer!

Five for Drinking: Champagne

December 30, 2013 By Brian Petro Leave a Comment

Champagne has its own inner glow.

New Year’s Day is fast approaching. That means a huge celebration of the year we just finished and a leaping off point for the year we are about to tackle. Major celebrations are equated with bringing out the bubbly. The corks are going to pop and champagne is going to flow. It is a lovely, crisp and effervescent drink on its own. It is also a great base for some delicious cocktails.

Champagne in a cocktail has been around for as long as champagne has been around. Here are five cocktails you can make for your guests to add a little more flavor to the mix.

Punch It Up

Punches are classics when it comes to cocktails; people would mix up huge batches for self-service at parties, meetings, and creating Constitutions. It is a simple, delicious way to get a cocktail into your guests’ hands as they walk in the door. Here is a concoction from Allrecipes that is typical of a punch recipe:

Champagne Punch (makes 35 4 oz. servings)

1 12 oz. can of cranberry juice concentrate
1 12 oz. can of pink lemonade concentrate
1 6 oz. can of limeade concentrate
1 bottle of chilled white wine
1 liter of soda water
2 bottles of chilled champagne

In a large punch bowl, combine all of the ingredients. Add a large block of ice to keep it all cold. Garnish with sliced lemons and limes.

Simple to make and delightful to drink. You can change the flavors to the taste of your guests, just mind the proportions.

Keep It Simple

People hear the word “cocktail” and think of something complex, yet elegant. Good cocktails can be just two or three ingredients mixed in the proper proportions. A Black Velvet can be made with ingredients you already have at the party!

Black Velvet, if you please…

Black Velvet

Stout (Guinness is the traditional choice, but select your favorite)
Champagne

In a glass, mix equal parts stout and champagne. It is just that simple. Just pour SLOWLY. Champagne fizzes a great deal when you add things to it.

Gotta Go Back In Time

Casablanca is one of my favorite movies of all time. Captain Renault spends a good deal of the movie ordering and consuming champagne cocktails. It is not a generic cocktail name, but something specific (and simple) to make.

Champagne Cocktail

1 sugar cube
4 dashes Angostura bitters
Champagne

Put the sugar cube and bitters into a champagne flute or coupe. Pour the champagne over the other ingredients and garnish with a twist of lemon. Enjoy!

Before processed foods, sodas and easily accessible juices, sugar and bitters were very popular ingredients used to flavor drinks.

Show Off Your Skills

Here is a rare gem of a cocktail. It was created in Louisville in 1917, named after the hotel it was invented in, then lost until 1997 when it was printed in New Classic Cocktails. It is a vintage cocktail that has not caught on, and I have no idea why. It is delightful.

Seelbach Cocktail

1 oz. bourbon
.5 oz. orange liqueur
7 dashes Angostura bitters
7 dashes Peychaud’s bitters
5 oz. champagne

Pour all the ingredients except for the champagne into a flute and stir. Add the champagne and give it a few more gentle stirs. You can use an orange twist as a garnish.

It takes a few more ingredients, but it is well worth it. Bitters last for a long time, so you can play with different cocktail and cooking combinations through the year.

The ball that is going to drop to end 2013. What will you be drinking?

Something New

I have been known to play with an ingredient or two. One of my favorite things to do as a bartender is make things up on the spot, using past recipes as a base to launch off of. This recipe is a result of that.

Ginger Spiced Champagne

1 oz. ginger liqueur
.5 oz. raspberry liqueur
1 oz. cranberry juice
Champagne

Mix all of the ingredients except for the champagne in a champagne flute. Add the champagne and give it a gentle stir or two.

The ginger and cranberry add a little bite to the sweet champagne. It may take a few ingredients that you do not have around the house, but the end result is well worth it.

One thing to remember about using champagne with a cocktail is that the champagne should be the star. It is more than just a mixer; it adds sweetness and sparkle to whatever it is being mixed with. Of course, if there is any champagne on January 1^st you can make mimosas. Happy New Year!

Dayton Theatre Auditions

December 29, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro 1 Comment

Washington Township’s Town Hall Theatre will hold auditions for it’s spring production of SEUSSICAL JR on January 4th beginning at 1pm and January 9th beginning at 4pm. The theatre for young audiences will cast children in grades 2 up to adult for some roles. The show will run March 7 – 23rd.

Registration for auditions is online. Please do not call the box office to schedule auditions. You will receive an email confirmation with your date and time. We cannot guarantee your choices for audition dates and times, however we will try our best to provide one of your three choices.

PLEASE NOTE: Registration for auditions scheduled on Saturdays must be received by 6pm on the Thursday before the audition. Our box office is closed on Fridays.

Playhouse South in Kettering is holding auditions for Hamlet by William Shakespeare, directed by Jen Skudlarek, on January 6th & 7th at 7pm, with callbacks on January 8th. The performances are on February 28, March 1, 2, 7, 8 at 8:00 pm and March 2 at 2:00 pm. They will be doing cold readings from the script. Please bring any conflicts you may have to auditions. They are looking for 16-20 people, with a minimum of 7 men and 3 women ages 16 and up. If you have any questions, feel free to contact Jen Skudlarek at [email protected].

The Dayton Gay Men’s Chorus will be holding open auditions for men of all ages on January 8, 2014 starting at 7pm at St John’s Lutheran Church located at 141 S Ludlow St, Dayton, OH 45402. Auditions will not only be to become a member of the chorus directly, but to also have the chance to participate in the new ground breaking commissioned oratorio “I am Harvey Milk” written and composed by Tony nominated Andrew Lippa, the be presented at the historic Victoria Theatre. Those wishing to audition should prepare a short piece demonstrating their range, an accompanist will be provided. Audition reservations are not required but a short RSVP or expression if interested is appreciated.

Returning members and new members will also have the opportunity to work directly with the composer at an all day workshop, which is to be announced shortly. Rehearsals are Monday evenings with a preview performance March 15,2014 at the DGMC Benefit, and final performance June 7, 2014 at the Victoria Theatre. For questions an interested please email [email protected] or call 937-530-0642.

Dare to Defy Productions, LLC is proud to announce open auditions for our company,

on Jan 11, 2014. General Auditions – (Ages 16+) will take place on January 11, 2014. To request an audition, please call 937-999-9949 or through e-mail [email protected]. Please specify an audition window 8:30-10:30 or 11:30-1:30. Please note any actors selected to attend callbacks for You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown will be required to attend callbacks from 2:00-5:00, on January 11, 2014. Audition spaces are limited and will be filled on a first come, first serve basis. You will receive a confirmation e-mail with your audition time confirmation, audition location and a reminder of the audition requirements.Open Auditions will be held for: You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown, Altar Boyz, Nunsense and Rent (the role of Angel has been pre-cast, all other roles are available)Please note: Auditioners will be auditioning for Dare to Defy Productions, LLC for the period January 2014-March 2015. This means that if other performance opportunities arise actors from these auditions may be invited to callbacks for those productions, as they occur.

Audition Requirements: Come prepared with 1 one-minute comedic monologue, 1 one-minute dramatic monologue and 1 song (up to 32 bars). Please have a 2nd song, of contrasting style, prepared. Bring your sheet music. An accompanist will be provided. No a cappella singing or recorded music. Please bring a recent headshot and resume, which will not be returned to you.Dare to Defy Productions, LLC is a non-equity professional production company. All roles are paid contract positions. Performances are done in a touring style, at several venues over a 3-month run.Rehearsals will primarily occur Monday – Thursday evenings, and daytime on weekends.

Living Up to Your New Years Resolutions

December 29, 2013 By Kim Estess Leave a Comment

With the final moments of 2013 ticking away as I type, my over-achieving type brain has been focusing on my goals for the coming year for several weeks now. I’m not sure why we, as humans, tend to see the beginning of the new year as the time to re-evaluate our lives and set new goals, but I know I’m not the only one who takes some time to reflect on where I am and where I’m going as another year draws to an end.

What can we all do to set realistic goals for the coming year and make sure we set ourselves up for success? It seems to me that the key to success is really straight forward and probably something you’ve heard a million times before–the key to success is setting SMART goals. You’ve heard of SMART goals before, right? Specific. Measurable. Attainable. Relevant. Time-bound. Okay, so we know what it means, but what does it actually mean in practice?

For 2013, I set all sorts of goals for myself. I was new at this whole blogging thing this time last year, and I saw all these other healthy living bloggers posting their 2013 goals on their blogs, so I found myself doing the same. I set personal goals, professional goals and fitness goals. I lived up to a few of them, but the main problem was that I set so many goals, I couldn’t really focus my attention on anything in particular. Aside from the SMART philosophy, if I can give you one piece of advice, it would be to set one or two important goals for yourself, and focus on those and those alone. Save the rest for future years.

I had one primary goal for 2013 though, that I really followed through with. My goal was to complete a virtual challenge called “13 in 2013“, which essentially boiled down to completing 13 running races (of any distance I chose) during the year. I truly believe that the reason I achieved this goal is because it stacked up to the SMART theory on goal setting. Let’s break it down.

Specific. Yep, this goal was very specific and very clear on what I needed to do. I had 12 months and 13 races to complete. Easy enough, and definitely not ambigious.

Measurable: Absolutely, this goal was measurable. I kept track of my races on my blog throughout the year, so I could always check my progress. I knew at any given point in the year how many races I had completed and how many more I had to go to meet my goal.

Attainable: I had never really kept track of how many races I had done before, but I never doubted that this goal was attainable. I thought it might be a stretch, especially pushing myself to get out the door for races during the cold weather months here in Dayton, but that’s what made it a goal. If it wasn’t challenging, it wouldn’t be worth aspiring to achieve. But, it wasn’t so far out there that it seemed impossible.

Relevant: Running 13 races in 2013 was a relevant goal for me as I’ve become something of a fitness junkie and running races is a fun social activity for me. Plus, it keeps me active and gives me something to blog about. Running is a hobby, so this goal fit my lifestyle seamlessly.

Time-bound: Yep, this goal definitely met the time-bound criteria. All 13 races had to be completed between January 1, 2013, and December 31, 2013. Done and done.

I can’t remember another new years resolution that I’ve ever followed through on 100% in the past, but I’m proud to have completed the 13 in 2013 challenge. As I look forward to 2014, I’m certainly going to bear this example in mind with my goal setting for the year. Because let’s face it–why bother setting unrealistic expectations for ourselves that are going to leave us feeling like crap when we can’t succeed? Set a goal that is SMART for 2014, and maybe this time next year you’ll be sitting here thinking, “Wow, I actually lived up to my New Years Resolution last year.”