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Things to do in Dayton | Restaurants, Theatre, Music and More

Dayton

Get Soulfully Funkalicious with the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company!

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Dayton is birthplace of amazing artistic as well as engineering feats. That spirit of innovation blossomed during the late 1960s-1980s in a couple of unique ways: the invention of funk music and the birth of modern dance.  In 1968, Dayton Contemporary Dance Company became the first modern dance company established in Ohio. Shortly after, Dayton become the proud capital of Funk music in the 1970s and 1980s.

On Saturday August, 24, 2019 both of those innovative art forms are celebrated together at DCDC’s Soulfully Funkalicious All-White Party! Enjoy delicious soul food while watching DCDC’s dance artists take to the floor in grand funk style with live music from the Dayton Funk All-Stars! Make sure to bring an appetite and your dancin’ shoes for this truly fun and fabulous way to support one of Dayton’s world-class artistic institutions!

How To Go?

What: Soulfully Funkalicious All-White Party

When: August, 24, 2019 from 6-11pm

Where: Dayton Convention Center (22 E 5th St, Dayton)

Tickets: $80 General Seating / $120 VIP Seating / $800 General Table (seats 10) / $1200 VIP Table (seats 10)

For this event only, please purchase tickets at Eventbrite or contact DCDC at 937-228-3232. Ticket purchases are non-refundable.

Please note: All white attire requested.

 

Dayton Porchfest offers free music in a beautiful neighborhood!

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Dayton Porchfest is an annual event occurring the final Saturday of August in St Anne’s Hill. PHOTO BY LIBBY BALLENGEE

Dayton Porchfest is back for a third year! It’s a day where music fills the streets and porches of St Anne’s Hill, one of Dayton’s most charming historic neighborhoods. It’s a free, family friendly event that runs from 1:30-7pm on Saturday August 24, 2019.

​Dayton has a rich musical history and active music scene, which continues today. Dayton Porchfest is committed to reflecting that in its selection of musical artists, from funk and blues to indie rock and jazz, classical and country, to bluegrass and old timey that has deep Appalachian traditions here. The event also celebrates the ethnic diversity of the region, a reflection of our “Welcome Dayton” spirit that has contributed to a significant influx of immigrants and refugees over the past decade.

​Dayton Porchfest is an initiative of The Collaboratory, a civic innovation lab that moves ideas to action. The Collaboratory provides infrastructure for people and organizations to collaboratively develop community initiatives that generate new economic, civic and creative opportunities and value. The result is a healthier, more thriving region. All proceeds from Dayton Porchfest go to support the work of The Collaboratory.

How to Go?

When: Saturday August 24, 2019. 1:30pm kickoff. 2-7pm music. Link to full . schedule – click here or see below

Where: Throughout St Anne’s Historic Neighborhood (E 5th St, just east of Keowee). Link to map – click here or see below

Who: All ages welcome!

Cost: Free (tips for musicians accepted!)

 

Free Trauma Relief & Healing Workshop on Sunday August 11th

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Many Daytonians are feeling extremely traumatized from the recent mass shooting and the Memorial Day tornadoes. We are all in need of healing.

To fill that need, The Ayurveda Natural Health Center is partnering with a collection of Dayton healers to present a FREE Trauma Relief Day of Healing on Sunday August 11th from 1:30pm-5:30pm at The Brightside (905 E 3rd St). Donations will be accepted and donated to the victim’s families and Moms Demand Action.

Classroom sessions:

  • 1:30 – 2:30 Somatic Trauma Resolution with Anjali Brannon from Ayurveda Natural Health Center
  • 2:30 – 3.30 Guided Relaxation and Meditation with Julie Bowen from Heartfulness Dayton
  • 3:30 – 4:30 Yoga with BeTrice Casada
  • 4:30 – 5:30 Pranic Healing with Felisha Beverly

*Please bring a yoga mat, blanket or towel if participating in yoga session.

Mini sessions will be offered throughout the event, including Thai Yoga & Swedish Massage, Pranic Healing, Somatic Trauma Resolution, Meditation, Reflexology, Reiki & Bemer from the above mentioned practitioners along with Janae Christopher, Lori Slone, Kathryn Stomps, Colleen Curran, Susan Nunn and more to be announced.

VeganDayton’s Shelly Gompers is providing snacks and information.

Arts & Drafts is the summer festival you never knew you needed!

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Can you believe it’s August already? I know, me either. Back to school time is around the corner. This is the point in the year when you have to ask yourself if you’ve really made the most of these fleeting summer months. If you’re in need of a rockin’ outdoor party with sweet bands, hot BBQ, root beer floats, tasty brews, with a kid zone  – without going far from home – you’re in for a treat this Saturday. The cynic might say “Well that sounds like any other festival…” Actually, no – on top of all that – there is a tattoo convention indoors too! Whoa!
The We Care Arts annual Arts & Drafts Festival is a true entertainment extravaganza! Join the party from 2-10pm on August 3rd at the We Care Arts Berkeley Studio at 3035 Wilmington Pk in Kettering. All ages welcome! $10 at the door or pre-sale. Check out all the fun and special treats in store for festival goers below. Plus! All proceeds directly go back to We Care Art’s mission to turn disabilities into possibilities!

A variety of regional acts are performing at We Care Art’s Arts & Drafts Festival on August 3, 2019.

For Music Fan’s listening pleasure:

* 2pm – Doug Hart – longtime staple in the Dayton Blues community
* 2:40pm – Woodsii – a California girl who will steal your heart!
* 3:30pm – Christopher Heider  – a Dayton guitarist and Arts & Drafts enthisiast
* 4:30pm – Nasty Bingo – a special set from this outstanding folkadelic four piece
* 5:35pm – Founding Fathers – an innovative alternative band from Cincinnati
* 6:45pm – isicle – our “in between sets” DJ performs a live looping set to get ya movin’
* 7:30-9:45pm – Wolf Moon Revival – takin’ it home with blues rock for your soul
Plus we have Zac Pitts from Sound Valley as our emcee and Brad Denson rockin’ sound!
Thinking about getting a tattoo? Get one on site! Yes really!
* Dustin Clark, Artie Perkins, and Jenny Reeves from Truth & Triumph
* Blake Moran and Natasha Woolley from Unfiltered Ink
* Cody Torres from Blue Byrd Tattoo
For the Thirsty & Hungry, we are thrilled to serve Dayton’s best:
*Craft Beers & non-alcoholic beers from Warped Wing Brewery
*Cocktails using Dayton made Buckeye Vodka – with an *exclusive* Arts & Drafts drink: The Dayton Mule – featuring Warped Wing ginger beer with Buckeye Vodka!
*Food from Bricky Barrels Smoked BBQ – featuring a memu of smoked bbq ribs, pulled pork, chicken, hot dogs, smoked cheddar Mac and cheese, coleslaw and baked beans and more!
*We Care Arts will also be selling Philly Pretzel Factory and homemade root beer floats featuring Warped Wing root beer and Fox & Hound ice cream!

Wild Hearts African Zoo is bringing an animal or two for kids to check out at the Arts & Drafts Festival on August 3, 2019.

For the Kiddos:
*Wild Heart African Farm will be stopping by with a special animal! Adorable!
*Prime Time Party Rental has generously donated a load of games to play.
*Our new Programming Director Caitlin Cartwright will be face painting too!
HOW TO GO:
  • The We Care Arts annual Arts & Drafts Festival  from 2-10pm on August 3rd
    • Address: 3035 Wilmington Pk in Kettering.
  • Parking is available in nearby lots or residential streets.
    • Going to drink? We encourage you to get a ride, Lyft or Uber on your way!
  • All ages welcome!
  • $10 at the door or for pre-sale click here.

Bar Granada reopens downtown with eclectic cultural events!

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An inside view of the newly remodeled Bar Granada located in downtown Dayton at the corner of Main & Monument Streets.

Bar Granda, the new bar and restaurant at the corner of Main & Monument downtown, has rebranded itself and reopened with an exotic flair! The decor and menu have been refreshed with a warm and cozy Mediterranean vibe, and food coming from the Latin Arepas Truck (indoors). They are equally as proud of their craft tequila menu, as their delicious mocktails for those choosing to stay sober.

The other big change to the venue is the addition of curated pan-cultural events. This Friday, they start their “Last Friday” series with The Dayton Salsa Project, who performs live Latin music (salsa/merengue/bachata/bolero) for your listening and dancing pleasure. Not sure how to dance Latin style? Watch and learn, and start with the merengue! You’ll be swaying your hips in no time. 9pm-12am. $10 cover. 21+

Later this summer, they are hosting a very special evening on Wednesday August 28th with The Flamenco Company of Columbus. Enjoy food, music and dance in a format rarely seen in Dayton – flamenco! Tickets include tapas & wine before the performance and dessert and Cava before final performance. What a wonderful cultural experience that will be! 7-10pm. $48 via Eventbrite. 21+

This flair of culture on the northern end of downtown is just the spark that area needs! Be sure to show your support of this new business next time you are planning a happy hour meet up, a date night or solo adventure downtown!

 

The Flamenco Company of Columbus will perform at Bar Granada on August 28, 2019.

More about Bar Granada

Bar Granada is located at 5 W Monument Ave, Dayton, OH 45402

Please note that parking lot adjacent to building is just $1 upon exit after 8pm.

Hours: Wednesday 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM / Thursday 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM / Friday 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM / Saturday 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM

Find out more: https://www.bardayton.com/

Food Adventures Have Noticed Changes at Taco Bell

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They don’t stuff tacos like they used to …

Okay, so 95 out of 100 articles we feature locally owned eateries.  Also, very rarely will we publish a negative slant in our stories on the Food Adventures Blog.  Today, however, we have taken notice of a situation, that has caused the Big Ragu some frustration.

In  the land of fast food, there was a fave that set itself apart.  But now it seems after a slow slide over the past 10 years, this old standby, is now a new spot of pitfalls and disappointments.  Has anyone else notice this change or is it us?

So we ask ….

Familiar site – you could listen to a Beatles album by the time you get to the pay window.

What has happened to Taco Bell ?

Back in the 80’s and the 90’s the successful chain was using the 59, 79 and 99 cent menus to the delight of fans.  There was the “Yoquero Taco Bell” Bell Dog, and the “Run for the border” campaign highlighting the late hours.  There was decent food and decent service late into the night, sometimes 4am !

They changed the burrito wrapper for the better, making it thicker and less breakable.  They came up with new menu ideas, maybe this is where the downfall started.  Maybe they offer too many menu items to crank things out like they used to….

Don’t get us wrong, Taco Bell still shows some magic.  The Big Ragu still absolutely loves the Mexican Pizza (although they stopped adding black olives on top), and we love the Nacho Bell Grande.  We applaud them for bringing back the nacho cheese fries.  But there are lot of changes that we have noticed locally over the past 10 years.  Is it just us?  Do other fast foodies in Dayton notice this around town?

This was the actual filling in our burrito supreme -mostly tortilla

— Smaller fillings:  Have you noticed they don’t stuff a taco or a burrito like they used to?  Every once in a while you will get an employee in the back that will be making some nice sized burritos and tacos, but for the most part they are partially stuffed and lots of times weighed.

— Slower Drive Thru Service: They used to be great on this, but now we have noticed you can watch an episode of The Big Bang Theory while waiting on your drive thru order.

— Poor Service:  No friendly greet, no thank you’s and lots of times

The Mexican PIzza is still a winner

the order is wrong. But the worst. and we mean ABSOLUTE WORST thing they do is close 15 minutes early and the employees hide inside and won’t come to the window because they know they are in the wrong.  They also close much earlier now than they have in years past, especially during winter months.

Is it just us, or have you noticed the change as well??  And if you ask for hot sauce they now give you 2 packets.  If you ask for 8 sauces they will give you 4.  We don’t know when this started but it seems they purposely short us now on sauces.

Can you spare a sauce?

Yeah we know, we took a weekly article to write about a chain.  Some of you may care, some may not, we just felt it worth mentioning since we think the decline is noticeable.

Suggestion:

One thing we suggest they do is bring back a simple menu item – BRING BACK THE BELLBEEFER.. This was Taco Bell’s version of a burger.  It was pretty much a sloppy joe with taco meat on a bun.  No frills, easy and quick to serve.

 

WE ASKED LOCAL EMPLOYEES:

Bring Back the Bellburger

Since this isn’t our first rodeo at the drive thru window – over the past 5 years, we have asked the employees at the window what the problem has been. Of the various local Taco Bells they all say the same thing. “We are greatly understaffed and it is hard to find good workers.”  

It sounds like they are short on workers, but trying to address the problem with no success do to the work force,

At any rate, until they fix it , we will be in that long drive thru line on occasion for a Mexican Pizza or Nacho Bell Grande.

Kudos for adding Nacho Fries to the menu

But we are in line there much less these days.. cutting our visits by about 75%.  Until then, here is hoping they make a change in size of servings, customer service, and drive thru times.  Is it too much to ask for that and some hot sauce?

PLEASE COMMENT BELOW AND TELL US WHAT YOU THINK….

Food Adventures is a local food blog with a weekly article here on Dayton Most Metro.  We also have a great presence on Facebook.

 

 

 

Wow..this bean burrito is lacking the goods

Look at this taco stuffing – are you kidding me ?

Here is a bean burrito – you can see that it is mostly tortilla

Top 33 Dayton Treats to Beat the Heat

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Jet Freeze’s Peanut Butter Sundae

The sweltering days, the sun beating down on the Miami Valley.  When you can’t plunge into a swimming pool, don’t worry.  Relief is a taste away.  Whether a mom and pop locally owned store, or a national chain, Daytonians have some delicious options to “beat the heat.”

The Food Adventures Crew breaks it all down for you right here:

 

The Top 20 Dayton Treats to Beat the Heat:

 

1) PEANUT BUTTER SUNDAE at JET FREEZE:

Homemade peanut butter sauce, and incredible prices make this choice #1.  They also have fantastic soft serve ice cream, unlike another place.  For example, also try the Kings Island inspired Smurf Blueberry Blue Ice cream.  Located in Beavercreek near the Grange Hall and Patterson intersection.

 

2) RITTER’S PEANUT BUTTER MOUNTAIN:

The Peanut Butter Mountain from Ritters

Whether the Kettering location or Beavercreek location, the toppings are generous for these sundaes.  Get one of the richest, most sinful things you have eaten all for around 5 bucks.

 

3) ICE CREAM PINTS at YOUNG’S DAIRY:

Great flavors like Sea Salty Caramel Crunch, Cookie Dough, Cow Patty and Tiramisu Gelato are our favorite flavors by far.  Hell, at this place even the butter pecan and chocolate ice cream is to die for.  Pack up the car and head to Yellow Springs today !

 

Pints from Youngs Dairy4) CHOCOLATE SHAKE at “K &W DRIVE-IN” in Springboro:

Shake it at K & W.   Nothing is as good as a shake or malt from here in the summer.  Make sure you try the burgers and footlong hot dogs too ! Located on 741 in Downtown Springboro, this place is a longtime favorite.

 

5) STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE SUNDAE from FREDDYS FROZEN CUSTARD:

Full blown strawberry heaven here.  Located on Wilmington Pike, they also serve other terrific sundaes.  Seriously one of the most delicious sundaes we have tried.

 

6) BAD JUANS at ELSA’S:

K & W Drive in in Springboro

 

Our only alcoholic item in the bunch, but it has to be on here.  How many drunk Bad Juan experiences have started with that first refreshing sip !

 

7) ROOT BEER FLOATS at the ROOT BEER STANDE:

A Dayton classic. No better place to people watch and car watch than Woodman Dr. at The Root Beer Stande.  It’s like a special portal in the universe.  Order a footlong hot dog and deep fried mushrooms too !

Strawberry Shortcake from Freddys Custard

 

 

 

8) CONE WITH SPRINKLES at the DAIRY SHED in BELLBROOK:

People come from all around like a beacon of hope to this place called the Dairy Shed.  The best sprinkle cones around, they really give it a dip and a whirl.  Sometimes it is like, “would you like some ice cream with your sprinkles?”

 

9) EXTRA LARGE CHOCOLATE MALT with  PEANUT BUTTER ICE CREAM and a BANANA at UDF:

Here is a “fat kid trick.”  We ask for the biggest shake at United Dairy Farmers and make it a malt.  Use Peanut butter ice cream, and ask them to add chocolate sauce and a banana.  Get some sunglasses, sit in the shade and go to a world of your own happiness.  UDF’s can be found in Kettering, Springboro and near University of Dayton.

The Bad Juan – Frozen

 

10) FRISCH’S HOT FUDGE CAKE:

Oh boy, the classic.  The perfect balance of fudge, cake and ice cream.  And who could forget the whipped cream?  Order one and you will find yourself making the “mmmm” good noises you see on commercials.  Lots of locations in town to order this one.

 

11) A WAFFLE CONE OF COOKIE DOUGH CHOCOLATE CHIP ICE CREAM at GRAETER’S ICE CREAM:

Get in line and get yourself a waffle cone of cookie dough. Their butter pecan here is sinful too.  Also we recommend the Buckeye Blitz Ice Cream.  The Centerville location on 48 and 725 is a perfect spot to try the flavors.

 

Root Beer Float from the Root Beer Stande

12) MOOSE TRACKS ICE CREAM at VILLAGE ICE CREAM PARLOR in LEBANON:

This ice cream has the perfect array of chocolate, fudge, nuts and caramel to make anyone happy.  This is a fantastic ice cream, and those who love “Rocky Road” will love this too !  Get to Lebanon soon!

 

13) PUMPKIN ROLL TOPPED WITH VANILLA ICE CREAM at THE DIXIE DAIRY DREEM:

A special homemade treat that is available more in the  fall.  In the meantime , just get the vanilla ice cream soft serve and the mini Dreem Burgers and you summer is complete.

Dairy Shed in Bellbrook

 

14) THE DREAMSICLE PIE from BUCKIN DONKEY:

An orange flavored pie that tastes like a push up pop.  Only At the Buckin Donkey would they dream this up.  Try the blackberry pie and peanut butter pie too.  All amazing in their own right.

 

Frischs Hot Fudge Cake

15) THE PEANUT BUSTER PARFAIT from DAIRY QUEEN:

The old classic with Spanish peanuts, hot fudge and vanilla soft serve ice cream.  Yeah, yeah we know it is a chain … Moraine, Miamisburg, and Centerville are a few of the locations.

 

16) A COLD GLASS of APPLE CIDER  from HIDDEN VALLEY ORCHARDS:

Nothing says AHHHH like a cold glass of cider in the summer.  Sip it outdoors and swirl it in your mouth.  Your tastebuds are now alive, and you are refreshed.  Just head south of Centerville on 48, and it is before you reach Lebanon on the left hand side.

Graeters !

 

 

 

 

17) PEANUT BUTTER BANANA SHAKES at STEAK N SHAKE:

This national chain makes some killer hand dipped shakes.   We have found one of the most delicious is the peanut butter and banana shake.  Refreshing as you can get, yet creamy and smooth as well.  Wilmington Pike in Kettering and in Miamisburg near Lyons and 741 are just two locations.

 

“Moose Tracks” at Village Ice Cream

18) PEANUT BUTTER n CHOCOLATE WAFFLE CONE at BASKIN ROBBINS on 741 near the Dayton Mall:

On  741 by the Dayton mall, this place has thrived since the 1970’s. Why?  One reason is the Peanut Butter n chocolate ice cream.  It is an amazing ice cream and butter pecan is a close second.  Get a Waffle cone today !

 

19) FRIED ICE CREAM AT EL TORO:

At the end of a spicy meal, lighten up with some fried ice cream.  Not as good as the stuff that Chi chi’s served, but this version is pretty good.  We love it at many locations in the Dayton area from Beavercreek, to Miamisburg and Centerville.

 

20) $1 VANILLA CONE FROM MCDONALDS:

Pumpkin Roll A La Mode at the Dixie Dairy Dreem

We had to include this monster on the list.  The best refreshment bang for your buck in the food industry.  One dolla and the vanilla makes you holla.

 

21) COOKIE BATTER ICE CREAM at COLD STONE CREAMERY:

Incredible flavor, and a unique one too.  Like licking the batter spoon?  You will love this stuff.  Again, a chain, but undeniable in goodness.

 

Buckin Donkeys Dreamsicle Pie

 

 

 

 

22) BANANA MILK SHAKE from SONIC:

This chain makes a refreshing banana shake.  It tastes like fresh banana and circus peanuts.  A nic sip on a summers ever while cruising in the car.  Sonic on Wilmington Pike is waiting for you to place your order !

 

23) CHUNKY MONKEY ICE CREAM from BEN AND JERRYS:

Whether you are at the actual store on Brown Street near University of Dayton’s campus, or in a local grocery, get some chunky monkey ice cream and cool off.  So many other flavors, just feel your way …. Cookie Dough is amazing and so is chocolate chip cookie dough.  Vermont’s finest ice cream, Ben and Jerry’s !

Peanut Buster Parfait from Dairy Queen

 

24) BANANA SPLITS At WHITTS FROZEN CUSTARD in LEBANON:

Get the signature dish that will have you dripping all over downtown Lebanon.  Three topping syrups and the typical setup with sliced bananas.  Treat yourself, you only live once.

 

25) CULVERS TURTLE SUNDAE:

This is a sinful sundae and one of the most delicious things we have ever tasted.  Culver’s is a chain with locations in Troy, and Mason.The also specialize in fried fish and butter burgers.

 

Inside Hidden Valley Orchard – Fresh, Cold Apple Cider!

26) THE BANANA CREAM PIE SHAKE from GOLD STAR CHILI:

Yes, this chili parlor has shakes,  Yes the banana cream pie shake is awesome.  Cool down at the end of a spicy lunch with one of those large shakes.  You won’t regret it.

 

27) BLUE RASPBERRY ITALIAN ICE at RITA’S ITALIAN ICE:

Little spot on Indian Ripple Rd and Dorothy Lane with Italian Ice and Gelato.  Fruit flavors abide and a nice patio.  Try the blue raspberry and let it set our world on fire, then cool it off .

Baskin Robbins Peanut Butter N Chocolate Cone

 

 

28) BROWNIE BATTER YOGURT from ORANGE LEAF FROZEN YOGURT:

Doctor this up with some chocolate chip toppings and you have an epic Food Adventure on your hands.

 

29) WENDY’S FROSTY:

The classic. It had to make the list.  A spoon, no straw, just you and tons of chocolate flavor.

 

30) THE BLACKBERRY COBBLER A LA MODE at THE MONTGOMERY COUNTY FAIR:

The only reason this is lower on the list is that it isn’t readily available like many others. You can only get this at a limited time at the Montgomery County Fair

 

Our pal “the King” and some fried Ice Cream at El Toro !

31) THE CHOCOLATE CUSTARD SHAKE from E.O BURGERS:

After that massive burger, you need a cool washdown.  How about a chocolate custard shake from EO Burgers?  So cold and creamy, it is a perfect end to a burger meal !

 

32) THE COOKIES n CREAM POPSICLE at SWEET P’s HANDCRAFTED ICE POPS:

Become a kid again and enjoy this Popsicle or try a strawberry one as well.  The tons of flavors offered give you a chance to get lost in a world of ice pops.  From kiwi to banana cream pops, there is something for everyone in this food cart.

 

33) NEW YORK CHEESECAKE SOYO YOGURT:

McDonalds $1 Cone

Also try the salted caramel yogurt.  The toppings you add make them taste like a real cheesecake.  Store is located on 48 in Centerville near Spring Valley.

 

Are you cooled down yet?  Did that do the trick ?  Did we get some of your favorites?  Who did we leave out?

Feel free to comment below.  Also, Food Adventures has a weekly feature article right here exclusively on DaytonMostMetro .com.

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK for more Dayton Foodie scoop!

 

Chunky Monkey from Ben and Jerrys

Blackberry cobble a la mode from the Montgomery County Fair

Orange Leaf Yogurt

SOYO YOGURT

Banana Cream Pie Shake at Gold Star Chili

Peanut Butter and Banana Shake

EO Burger custard machine

Jet Freeze

Sweet P’s Ice Pops

 

 

Music and Art Go Hand in Hand on Fine Art Final Friday!

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Music fans are in for a treat on Friday June 28th when Marbin, the up-and-coming progressive jazz-rock band based in Chicago, comes back to town! This exciting act is taking the stage at Dayton’s hottest new music spot: The Brightside Music & Event Venue. Special guest Ben Delaurentis kicking off the night at 9pm!

Added bonus to this show! The Brightside is serving up food and amazing tunes on Friday night. The lovely ladies who run Drunkin’ Waffle / Twisted Taco will be on site as soon as doors open, to serve up some tasty food!

If you’re really looking to round out this cultural date night – I’d suggest getting out early and checking out some visual art around town. Fine Art Final Fridays is a new trend downtown, spurred by gallery owner Edward Dixon. This month he features three of Ben Ibebe‘s amazing pieces from his 6 painting “Jazz Series” which has never been shown outside of Dayton, Ohio! Meters are free after 6pm. So get your fine art on, and then get your groove on at The Brightside!

How To Go?

Friday June 28, 2019

Gallery Show: 5-9pm at Edward Dixon Gallery – 12 S Ludlow St Dayton, Ohio. No entry fee!

Marbin Concert: 

The Brightside Music & Event Venue – 905 E 3rd St Dayton, Ohio

Doors 8pm. Show 9-11pm.

$10 at the door

All ages

Food: Twisted Taco food truck

Presented by Venus Child Productions

More about the Music

Marbin has a unique story that stands out in today’s music world. With a do-it-yourself approach, they started started touring extensively in 2011, bringing their original instrumental music to every part of the United States. Through word of mouth, Marbin has gained the attention of thousands of devoted fans all over the world. This is your chance to see them right here in Dayton!

Ben is a singer-songwriter from Lynchburg, Virginia whose warm tones and heartfelt lyricism create an authentic, intimate experience for the listener.

Nashville Rock Band at Brightside

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Alternative rock fans are in for a treat this Sunday June 23rd with a showcase of up-and-coming bands at Dayton’s newest music venue, The Brightside Music & Event Venue.  Better Off is on tour from Nashville. They’ll be  rockin out with area original bands Weathervein, Overgrow and Better Anyway.

The great things is that fellow music promoter, Ian Baldwin made playlists to get you in the mood for this exciting upcoming show! Check out links to custom lists for Apple Music and Spotify below.

How to Go?

The Brightside Music & Event Venue – 905 E 3rd St Dayton OH 45402

Sunday June 23, 2019. 7pm Doors

$10 advance tickets here

All ages!

Check out the music at links below!

Apple Music Playlist

https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/better-off-at-the-brightside-6-23/pl.u-YGXgHxWrGXY?fbclid=IwAR0l5r64osdTVmDwZ-XEoAf0hKm3iiJ37rkF_xxk-0gOxK_YK_ndvHvCEJE

Spotify Playlist

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0Hvkdsg3AReuwYIcoBHzNb?si=AYjSZn1uT_aZ5eke3E2H_Q&fbclid=IwAR2rATj57jxcRiU0lPxqDh4AqsbmnWXT4U4oAKvBszSJSFe1JvatVTi4du4

Levitt Pavillion Singer AJ Croce’s Food Adventure at DiSalvos

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AJ Croce on a Food Adventure to Mamma DiSalvos

“Operator, could you help us make this dinner reservation call, it seems the number on the match book is old and faded.”

Wednesday night was an epic night for the Food Adventure Crew. 

As many of you know, tonight, Thursday June 13th, AJ Croce plays a free concert downtown at Levitt Pavilion.  We were lucky enough to spend a couple hours with him and his band at Mamma DiSalvos Ristorante on Stroop Rd the evening before his concert.  The result was great food, great vino and unforgettable conversation.

 

HERE’s THE SKINNY ON AJ CROCE:
A LESSON IN STRENGTH and PERSEVERANCE

Sauteed Broccoli

Eggplant Rollitini

First a little background on this jazzy piano player and guitarist.  AJ has endured more tragedy than one should in a lifetime.  You may know of his father, Jim Croce.  A musician and guitar player from Philadelphia with #1 hits such at “Bad Leroy Brown” and “Operator (That’s Not the Way it Feels).”  Jim was taken from this world in a plane crash in 1973, and our nation mourned his loss for weeks.  AJ was just two years old when his dad passed away.  Raised by his mom, AJ endured a temporary blinding illness as a child. He and his mom, Ingrid worked hard and thrived with 5 restaurants in San Diego.  AJ practiced music, and eventually became a talented piano player, opening up for the likes of BB King.  He got married and had two children.  Sadly, in 2018 AJ’s wife passed away from a rare heart virus and again he was faced with tragedy.  He has persevered, like he always does.  AJ’s career includes 9 studio albums and 18 top 20 singles.   And now he is on tour in 2019 with a stop here in Dayton,and at Kent State University next.  His concert set promises to feature his songs, and songs made famous by his dear old dad.

 

ITALIANS at DINNER :

Mamma DiSalvos was the perfect spot for dinner and foodie talk.  AJ is Italian (Croce means “Cross” in Italian), as are the Food Adventure Crew of Jackie, the Big Ragu and Jessie (who was unable to make this dinner).  It was like a family dinner for us all.  As we sat down, we started to get to know AJ asking about his favorite foods as we always do with our guests.  He loves seafood and vegetables.  He says he really doesn’t eat much, but enjoys good healthy food and loves to cook at home as well.  His home being raised in San Diego, but he has lived in Nashville for about a decade.

 

Rare photo of AJ with 3 desserts near him – cannoli, lemoncella and tiramisu

AJ CROCE’S FAVORITE FOOD TYPES:
—MEXICAN
—INDONESIAN
—JAPANESE
—FRENCH
—SPANISH

 

DINNER at MAMMA DISALVOS:

A cheese pizza from Mamma’s kitchen was waiting for us as we sat down.   It served as a welcoming appetizer for the band who had just flown in from California.  Besides AJ, band members included David Barard, a grammy award winning bass player and pillar in New Orleans’ artist Dr. John’s band for 30 years.  Also eating with us was Gary Mallabar, the drummer from the Steve Miller Band from 1976-1987.  His beats were on many of their hit songs!  Rounding out our group was Garrett Stoner, the Nashville recording artist and guitarist in the band.

As we ordered we all started with Italian wine or an Italian beer.  We had Italian wedding soup, salad and bread.  AJ ordered the linguine

Good Wine, Good Food

and clams dinner, some sauteed vegetables, and a meatball in sauce.  Jackie ordered Eggplant Rollitini, and Big Ragu ordered Eggplant Parm over spaghetti.  The forks were flying, people loving their dishes.   We then went wild …. on dessert.  The whole group indulged in cannoli, tiramisu and lemocella with whipped cream.   Forks and spoons were trying every dish and smiles and laughs ended the night.  Mamma DiSalvos hit this one out of the park.  AJ thought the tiramisu was to die for, but ate the cannoli too and ordered another cannoli to go … successful outing.   We were all full and happy.  Conversation and company was great.  AJ is a virtual encyclopedia of the music industry, and well read citing historical and literary references throughout dinner.  He is a sharp cookie, and you have to keep up with his sometimes obscure references, but what a joy he is to be around.

 

AJ’s TOP 5 FAVORITE RESTAURANTS OF ALL TIME (no particular order):


—BALTHAZAR in New York City:
A French restaurant known for fresh seafood and shellfish, as well as bread and pastries.

— THE RESTAURANTS in LA MAMOUNIA RESORT in Marrakech, Morocco:
A Moroccan, French and Italian restaurant are on site and a featured Sunday Brunch

—LOS PANCHOS in Hillcrest, California (San Diego):
Mexican Grill and Cantina

—LA CAMPANA in Rome, Italy
500 year old restaurant, making it the world’s oldest restaurant

— VEGETARIAN FOOD CARTS on the streets of Kathmandu, Nepal:

Tiramisu


He doesn’t remember the name of the cart, just that the food carts were amazing and served mostly vegetarian foods.

 

******AJ, What other favorites do you recommend?******

In his hometown of Nashville, he likes FIVE POINTS PIZZA the best.

He also suggests a French restaurant in Nashville called MARGOT CAFE and BAR.

Being that his dad is from Philly and he has a lot of family there, we asked his the age old question …
which cheesesteak is better JIM’S , PAT’S , GENO’S or STEVE’S ???

Pizza

He says JIM’S is best and yes, get the cheese whiz on the sandwich !

 

HOW TO FOLLOW and FIND AJ CROCE’S MUSIC:

—AJ ON APPLE and ITUNES

— AJ CROCE ON TOUR –
Show at Dayton’s Levitt Pavilion on Thursday June 13th at 7pm – FREE ADMISSION

— AJ on FACEBOOK

 

*** CATCH AJ IN CONCERT FOR FREE THURSDAY JUNE 13th,  7pm DOWNTOWN DAYTON at LEVITT PAVILION ! ***

THANK YOU

Clams and Linguine for Mr Croce

We would like to thank Bobby DiSalvo and his staff at Mamma DiSalvos for handling our dinner reservation with excellence and class.  Everyone thoroughly enjoyed their meals.  If you have not been to Mamma’s, then you are missing one of Dayton’s top MUST EATS ! 

Also, thank you to AJ Croce, his band, and his management for the opportunity to visit with him and talk food.  We knew this would be an interview like no other he had before, and it turned out even better than expected.  It was like a family dinner with old friends.  It was simply an unforgettable Food Adventure.

For more on Dayton’s best eats, follow us on FACEBOOK by clicking here. We also have an exclusive feature article right here each and every week on DaytonMostMetro.com

 

Eggplant Parm

Red Wine and Peroni Beer

Good Times with AJ Croce

 

 

 

Belmont Days Returns to Dayton

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On June 29, 2019, the Belmont Business Association (BBA) and the Belmont Eastmont Hearthstone Community Council (BEHCC) will once again host Belmont Days. This is an opportunity for their communities, and the city of Dayton, to come and experience all of the growth that has occurred in these districts over the last several years. The event will be from 11 AM to 6 PM, primarily on Watervliet Drive between Fauver Avenue and Mundale Avenue. There will be live music, food, shopping at local businesses, and an opportunity to visit all of the stores in the main business district of Belmont.

It has been twenty years since Belmont hosted this popular event. As the area of Belmont expands and improves, the community wants to invite all of their Dayton neighbors to see and experience the people and businesses that have built up these sections of the Gem City. Stores will be open for shopping while vendors on the street showcase the small businesses that have been built in the community. To kick off the festivities, Belmont Gym has designed a unique obstacle course to challenge the fitness of those that sign up. Music will be playing in the streets, while local businesses will offer everything one can imagine.

Belmont Eastmont Hearthstone Community Council has worked to build and promote these districts of Dayton since the mid-1970s. They work with the citizens of these communities to promote growth, both economically and socially.

Tornado Personal Effects Reunion Page Launches

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One of the most painful things about losing your home and belongings in a disaster, whether it be fire, flood or wind, is the loss of photos, personal momentos and childhood treasures. It’s the loss of those precious and irreplaceable items that cuts a particularly painful wound.

After the recent Dayton tornadoes, my friend and fellow Brookville High School alumni Ryan Wissinger, reached out from his current residence in Boise, Idaho. He was struck by stories he was hearing from in Brookville, where friends were finding family photos in fields miles away. Wanting to help in some way, but being hundreds of miles away, Ryan had an idea.

He started a Tornado Personal Effects Reunion Page on Facebook. Here people can post items that were found during clean ups or that blew onto other people’s property. People in search of treasured items can post what they are looking for as well. In the couple weeks since this page was established, local folks have posted images of historic photos, identification, stuffed animals, quilts, a wedding dress – and even a couple pets!

Our best wishes are with everyone who was effected by these devastating storms. Ryan and I hope that reconnecting people with their lost treasures will be a small reconciliation on the road to recovery.

The way this page is most effective is by joining and sharing, so please do so today: https://www.facebook.com/groups/334058030599309/

Street Names of Dayton: Artz Lane

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Peter Artz 1792 – 1873

The Artz family made their way from Maryland with Peter Artz arriving in Ohio on horseback. Peter settled on a farm near Fairfield, Ohio but soon moved to Dayton where for years he operated a wholesale grocery business. Peter Artz died in 1873 at the age of 81. He rests peacefully at Woodland Cemetery with his wife Elizabeth who died in 1875 at the age of 77.

Joseph S. Artz 1824 – 1899

Joseph S. Artz was born on a farm in Greene County, Ohio in 1824 and grew up working on the family farm. He made his way to Germantown, Ohio and began working in the lumber and undertaking business. On account of deafness, he was rejected when he offered his services to fight in the Civil War. In 1866, he moved from Germantown to Dayton where he established a lumber business which he conducted for about eleven years. In 1877, he bought out the furniture firm of Chadwick & Beaver and continued in that line of business for a number of years until his sons took over the business. Joseph was married in Germantown to Miss Elizabeth Negley, a daughter of Captain W.H.H. Negley and together they had eight children.  Elizabeth Artz died on February 11, 1882 at the age of 56 and Joseph died on December 26, 1899 at the age of 75. Both are resting peacefully together in Section 103 Lot 2016 at Woodland Cemetery.

William Negley Artz 1862 – 1934

William N. Artz  had a prosperous business as a furniture dealer in Dayton. He was born in Germantown, Ohio in 1862. He was seven years old when his parents moved to Dayton and this is where he remained. William stayed in school until the age of fifteen then left to work for the Pennsylvania Railroad Company in the Dayton yards. He spent five years with the railroad rising to the position of conductor and then moved on to the Dayton & Ironton Railroad and served that line as conductor for a year. Soon after, he left the railroad and joined his father in the furniture business at Artz & Ozias. William began delivering furniture for them at a salary of seven dollars per week. He had been receiving one hundred and twenty dollars per month with the railroad but working for the railroad was hard work and often dangerous and he wanted to learn his father’s trade and business. He also knew that  the opportunity for advancement always came to the man who was willing to work for it. He earned the position of shipping clerk, then salesman and eventually became one of the three owners of the store known as Artz Brothers.

Artz Furniture Store at 110 – 112 N. Main St.

In 1904, William purchased the interest of his brother and ran the store under his own name. His store was well stocked with a variety of goods of varying prices in order to meet the demand of his customers. He was well respected for his business practices and enjoyed much success in his new vocation. William married Miss Mary Anna Baile on April 6, 1882. William died on April 1, 1934 and Mary Anna died on June 28, 1932. They are both resting peacefully together in Section 34 Lot 1306 at Woodland Cemetery.

 

Artz Lane in Downtown Dayton

The W. N. Artz Furniture Store was located at 110 and 112 North Main Street in the heart of downtown Dayton. To the north of it’s location were the King Brothers and Company, and the Green, Green and Co. Bakery (Victoria Theatre) and to the south was G. W. Shroyer and Co., Jacobs Business College and P. M. Harman and Co. Currently, 110 North Main Street is the current site of Premiere Health headquarters.

Woodland Cemetery, founded in 1841, is one of the nation’s oldest rural garden cemeteries and a unique cultural, botanical and educational resource in the heart of Dayton, Ohio. Visit the cemetery and arboretum and take one of the many tours Woodland offers free of charge. Most of Dayton’s aviation heroes, inventors and business barons are buried at Woodland.

Woodland Cemetery and Arboretum is located at 118 Woodland Avenue off of Brown Street near the University of Dayton Campus. The Woodland Office is open Monday through Friday 8 am to 5 pm and Saturday 8 am to 12 pm. The Cemetery and Arboretum are open daily from 8 am to 6 pm and until 7 pm during Daylight Saving Time. The Mausoleum is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm. For more information, call 937-228-3221 or visit the Woodland Cemetery and Arboretum website.

Enjoy the first Songwriter Showcase at The Brightside!

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Dayton’s newest music venue, The Brightside, is presenting its first Songwriter Showcase this Wednesday May 8th, 2019. The venue has two spaces for music, a large ballroom for larger concerts and events, and a smaller listening room, that is ideal for intimate evenings such as this special showcase.

The evening starts off at 8pm with Jack Ballengee Morris performing his all original songs, accompanied by Peter Fox on cello. Morris, a 4th-generation Appalachian singer-songwriter, originally from Clay County, West Virginia. His music is planted firmly by his roots but allows for the influences of Ramblin’ Jack, John Prine, Bob Dylan and Daniel Johnston.

At 9pm, Dayton’s own Amber Hargett takes the stage. Amber received raved reviews from her recent album release performance, and has been in the Top 5 Best Sellers at Dayton’s Omega Music record store. Amber Hargett blends folk, rock, pop, roots and soul sounds into her unique storytelling style. Her writing attempts to balance honesty with empathy and reflect truths about faith, life, and relationships.

The evening closes with a 10pm set from Closest Relative, coming to Dayton for the first time from Columbus. After a 2015 motorcycle accident took two fingers from his left hand, longtime guitarist Jack O’Connell adopted a new playing style and started performing solo as Closest Relative. His music is characterized by intricate two-fingered guitar work, and earnest lyrics. His latest EP “This Tree is Base” expands on his previous EP “Messes” and unfurls his songwriting in unexpected directions.

Making this show extra special is the live art happening on site. Artists Etch and Tiffany Clark will be creating the Dayton skyline outside the venue as a permanent art piece! Very cool. This promises to be a Wednesday evening out that you won’t want to miss!

How to Go?

The Brightside Music & Event Venue

Wednesday May 8, 2019

Doors 7pm. Show 8-11pm.

$7 admission.

All ages welcome

Dayton Contemporary Dance Company’s Golden Anniversary Celebrated with the Dayton Philharmonic!

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The Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra, under the leadership of Artistic Director and Conductor Neal Gittleman, is honored to be a part of the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company’s 50th Anniversary celebration for a special DCDC Golden Anniversary Concert on Saturday, May 4, 2019 at 6:30pm at the Schuster Center in downtown Dayton.

Founded in 1968 by the late Jeraldyne Blunden, Dayton Contemporary Dance Company (DCDC) is the oldest modern dance company in Ohio. DCDC serves as a cultural ambassador to Dayton, the state of Ohio, the Midwest, and the nation. The company holds the world’s largest archive of classic African American dance works and one of the largest of any kind among contemporary dance companies worldwide. Noteworthy choreographers who have worked with the company include Alvin Ailey, Talley Beatty, Donald Byrd, Bill T. Jones, José Limón, Donald McKayle, Ray Mercer, Bebe Miller, Doug Varone, and Kevin Ward.

Together, the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company and the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra will present a thrilling performance to honor DCDC’s 50th Anniversary as the region’s outstanding modern dance company rooted in the African American experience. The evening’s performance will consist of three engaging pieces that celebrate the artistry and athleticism of the full DCDC company of dancers.

The first of the three pieces presented will be the World Premiere choreographed by former DCDC artistic director Kevin Ward. The new work is entitledand each day you mean one more and is set to brand new music by composer and musician Derrick Spivey, Jr. and performed by the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra. Neal, Derrick and Kevin–conductor, composer, and choreographer–have worked closely together over the last several months to bring this work to life.

and each day you mean one more is partly inspired by the poem “The Low Road” by Marge Piercy, which addresses the challenges faced by the lone actor for societal good and how, with the gradual attraction and enlistment of like-minded individuals, a real force for change can be built that can resist destructive reactionary forces. In creating the dance, choreographer Kevin Ward was inspired by many lone actors such as Fanny Lou Hamer, David Hogg, Fred Rogers, James Baldwin, Malala, Claudette Colvin, and many nameless actors, such as the U.S. prisoners who staged a massive strike against systematic abuse, even though it resulted in the cruelest solitary confinement, and how their efforts inspired millions to follow suit.

DCDC will also perform a signature work from their history called Children of the Passage. This work was co-created for DCDC by world-renowned choreographer Ronald K. Brown and Tony-nominated choreographer Donald McKayle, who passed away just over a year ago this April. The work follows a party of decadent lost souls that are haunted and later rescued by spirits that reconnect them to their ancient and ancestral character. The composition is a cadence that is drawn from the traditional marching jazz bands of New Orleans, with the grind and groove of the contemporary jazz and soul music. The language of movements is translated from the visual poetry of African and African American dance and the celebration of cultural rituals of yesterday and today.

The third work on the program is American Mo’, created by choreographer and DCDC Associate Artistic Director Crystal Michelle Perkins. The dance is a celebration of triumph over adversity. Dancers express freedom, courage and joy to Duke Ellington’s “Three Black Kings,” composed in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This work originally premiered on September 19 & 20, 2015 as part ofAmerican Mosaic, Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Miriam Rosenthal Foundation for the Arts and was performed with accompaniment by Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra at the Schuster Center. DCDC has performed the innovative piece in New York City, Kazakhstan, and the Bolshoi in Moscow.

How To Go!

Saturday, May 4, 2019 at 6:30pm at the Schuster Center
Tickets for DCDC Golden Anniversary Concert begin at $15.50 and are available for purchase by calling Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630 or online at www.daytonperformingarts.org. 
For more information on the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance, including by Dayton Philharmonic, Dayton Opera and Dayton Ballet, visit www.daytonperformingarts.org.
For more information on Dayton Contemporary Dance Company, visit www.dcdc.org.

Call For Nominations: 2019 Wilson A. Charbonneaux Award

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Engineers Club SealThis award, named for Mr. Wilson Charbonneaux, a longtime member of the Engineers Club of Dayton where he reenergized the Club’s Barn Gang and served on many of the Club’s committees. During his career, he established three successful companies and was personally granted 17 patents. He directed a great deal of energy to make science and technology understandable and accessible to the general public.

 

It is given to individual(s)/organization(s) for their innovative approaches to increasing the public’s understanding of science and technology. The quality of their outreach will be assessed. A demonstrated commitment to advancing and defining the role of science and technology in all aspects of society must be shown. Volunteer/not for profit activities will have preference over Government/Industry funded activities.

Past winners have included Dayton aviation writers, Howard R. DuFour, Fred Fisk and Marlin Todd, Melba Hunt and Mary Ann Johnson, a founding member of Aviation Trail, Ralph Dull Homestead, Dr. and Mrs. James Stewart, Mr. Walter Hoy and Mr. Stephen Frey. Organizations that have been honored are The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, The Experimental Aircraft Association’s Young Eagles Program in the Dayton Area, the Affiliate Societies of Dayton for TechFest, the Wright “B” Flyer organization, Team Ohio Rocket Club, Air Camp, Mound Science and Energy Museum Association and the Dayton Regional STEM Center’s Science Saturday.
Wilson Charbonneaux AwardThe nomination should include the name(s) of the individual(s) or organization, statements addressing the above criteria, and contact information. The award will be presented at the Engineers Club’s Annual Meeting Dinner in June, 2019.

 

Nominations should be sent to the Engineers Club of Dayton, 110 E. Monument Ave., Dayton, Ohio 45402 by May 15, 2019
For more information or to submit a nomination via e-mail, please contact Ms. Darbie Kincaid at (937) 228-2148, [email protected] or the following link on the club website at http://www.engineersclub.org. Please include in the subject line of any e-mail “Charbonneaux Award”

The Engineers Club mission is to foster the advancement of business, education, engineering and science, and to promote the professional development of its members. The Engineers Club offers individual memberships, including special memberships for students and non-residents, as well as corporate and group memberships. More information is available at http://www.engineersclub.org/.