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THE NEON Announces Benefit with AMELIE

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Hello Everyone,

In October, THE NEON plans to shut down for a few days in order to install new digital projectors. Though we’d love to keep our 35mm projectors running, we’re being “forced” by the industry to make this change in order to stay in business. Within the coming year, bigger distributors will stop making 35mm prints, and their titles (like THE KING’S SPEECH, THE BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL, MOONRISE KINGDOM, etc.) keep us in business…and subsequently allow us to play smaller gems like THE KID WITH A BIKE and I AM LOVE.

In addition to exploring the options and trying to obtain an understanding of the new technology (this has been a big learning curve for me), there comes the challenge of paying for this new equipment. The cost will be approximately $140,000. We will be able to borrow some of this, and we have some money saved…but we have about a $25,000 gap.

The multiplexes are obtaining financial assistance from distributors to make these costly changes, but for us to maintain our community-driven mission (which includes film festivals, assisting local artists and organizations with special screenings, etc.), these programs don’t work for us.

On October 14, we will have a benefit at THE NEON to assist with the transition to digital projection. We will screen the film AMELIE on 35mm, and 3 of Dayton’s best restaurants will provide appetizers – Meadowlark, Coco’s Bistro & Roost and Heidelberg Distributors have given us a couple cases of wine.   In addition, we’ll hold a small auction of film-related items with Dayton roots. (Martin Sheen has given us some fun items, Allison Janney is on-board to provide us with something, and J. Todd Anderson will donate a storyboard from one of the Coen Brothers’ films to auction. And there’s more to come!)

Here’s our benefit announcement that you might start seeing around town:

Though we’ll be sad to see our 35mm projectors go away, we’re excited about some of the changes that will come along with our new equipment. THE NEON will finally be able to offer hearing assisted devices! We’ll also be able to occasionally offer screenings with closed captions for the hearing impaired (and I know some of our customers prefer subtitles when accents are hard to discern). We’ve got lots of options, and we’re looking forward to the new opportunities.

Within the next couple weeks, we will have a live website for purchasing tickets to our benefit…but I wanted you to know that tickets will go on sale at our box office on Wednesday, August 22.
THE INDIE LOVER Ticket is $100 – This ticket gets you your first beer or wine, appetizers from 3 great restaurants, and the screening of AMELIE.
THE EXECUTIVE PRODUCER Ticket is $150 – This ticket comes with unlimited beer and wine, delicious appetizers, the screening of AMELIE and 1 Entry into our drawing for Naming Rights of our large auditorium. We think it will be a fun night!

Thanks for taking the time to read through the lengthy post!

My regular newsletter will arrive later this week.

We’ll see you soon at the movies.
All the best,
Jonathan

Downtown Buildings Will Be Lit Friday for Photo Contest

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Amateur winner Bruce Soifer's photo of the Dayton skyline, taken during downtown's light up night in 2011.

From 8 to 11 p.m. this Friday, Aug. 3, most of downtown’s buildings will be lit for photographers who would like to capture city nightscapes to enter in the photo contest Downtown in Focus. While photographers can enter photos taken during the night or day, tomorrow evening will be an opportunity to take shots when downtown Dayton’s skyline will be brightly lit.

The owners of 27 downtown buildings — including the Kettering Tower, KeyBank Tower, CareSource building and new Premier Health Partners Center — have agreed to light up for the evening.  A complete list follows, and photographers interested in knowing if a specific building will be lit up can visit www.downtowndayton.org or contact Anna Beyerle at 224-1518, ext. 235.

Downtown eatery Smokin' BBQ lights up near the Oregon District.

The buildings will be lit during First Friday, downtown’s free monthly art hop. This week’s event will feature a free concert by Stranger at RiverScape MetroPark from 5 to 7:30 p.m., as well as gallery openings at locations throughout downtown, a variety of roaming entertainers, and much more from 5 to 10 p.m. Click here for details about events taking place during this month’s First Friday.

The Downtown Dayton Partnership, City of Dayton, Kaplan College and Dayton Daily News are sponsoring Downtown in Focus. One amateur winner and one professional winner will be selected in each of the following categories:

  • Downtown Festivals: Images showcasing individuals or unique moments at any of downtown Dayton’s summer events or festivals.
  • Active Downtown: Photographs featuring people participating in active lifestyle activities, such as biking, kayaking, dancing and running in downtown Dayton.
  • Scenic Downtown: Creative images featuring buildings, architecture, skylines, parks, the river or any other picturesque view of downtown.
  • Best in Show (selected by the judges)

CareSource Management Group's building is a staple among downtown's bright lights.

A panel of judges will select the winners in each category and award a $250 cash prize to the Best in Show winner in each division. Honorable mentions also will be awarded at the discretion of the judges. Contest winners will be recognized at the Sept. 14 Urban Nights and all entries will be displayed in a special exhibit during Urban Nights.

The deadline to submit photos is 5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 31. Official contest guidelines and entry forms are available at www.downtowndayton.org.

Aug. 3 First Friday to Feature Free Kayaking and Cycling, Live Music, New Art Exhibits, and Much More

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Downtown’s next free First Friday art hop will be held from 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, Aug. 3.

RiverScape MetroPark will host the final First Friday @ 5 concert in this year’s series, with Stranger performing from 5 to 7:30 p.m. The park’s concession stand will be open and beer will be sold from 5 to 7 p.m. MetroParks employees will demonstrate various kayaking skills on the river and free kayak rentals will be available, courtesy of Cox Media Group Ohio. Free bike rentals will be available, courtesy of AAA, and the Junior League of Dayton will sponsor free bike helmets and fittings.

At the event, RTA will debut its new “On the Road” bus, a hands-on, retrofitted bus available for tours. The bus has special features, including computer kiosks for website training, interior LCD monitors with video montages and an exterior monitor for outside viewing. The bus is part of a mobile community outreach program that connects RTA to special events in the Dayton community.

Kayak raffle tickets will be sold to raise money for the Last DAM Summer, the fundraising effort for the RiverScape River Run project.

Also during the First Friday @ 5 concert, guests can show they give a DAM about the RiverScape River Run project by making a donation to the Last DAM Summer fundraising campaign. Basho Apparel will be at RiverScape hand printing special I Gave a DAM T-shirts. The shirts usually are reserved for those who donate $100 or more to the project, but only during First Friday @ 5, the shirts will be available to those donating $50 or more. In addition, Whitewater Warehouse will be selling raffle tickets for $10 each or three for $20 to win a Perception Prodigy 10 kayak the business has donated, with all proceeds going toward the River Run project.

This is the last summer a dangerous low dam in the Great Miami River will stand in the way of paddlers and others who want to enjoy the river. River Run, the next phase of development at RiverScape MetroPark, includes the removal of the low dam, making a seven-mile stretch of river navigable from Eastwood MetroPark to Carillon Park. In place of the dam, two smaller drops will be installed upstream near The Landing and RiverScape. These peninsulas will span the river and be notched with two openings where water will pass — an easy pass-through for novice paddlers and a more challenging route for skilled paddlers. The River Run project has some DAM good benefits for downtown Dayton and the region, including a safer river, improved water quality and aquatic habitat, and the creation of a regional destination for outdoor recreation.  Call 224-1518 for more information.

During First Friday, saxophonist Tyrone Martin, magician Scott Miller and steel drum performer Joseph Glenn also will provide entertainment while roaming the streets of downtown.

Tyrone Martin, a saxophonist, will perform as part of First Friday's roaming entertainment.

Club Masque, 34 N. Jefferson St., will host the Theme Release Party for AIDS Resource Center Ohio’s 11th annual Masquerage from 6 to 8 p.m. Masquerage raises funds to provide HIV/AIDS outreach, prevention programs, free HIV testing and counseling to the Dayton area. The release party will feature a fashion show by the Rubi Girls, produced by Square One Salon and Spa, as well as drink specials and hors d’oeuvres. Tickets are $20 before the event and $25 at the door. Tickets for Masquerage will be available, and the cost of the $20 release party ticket can be applied toward the $50 Masquerage ticket. Theme Release Party tickets can be purchased at masquerage.org or by calling 461-2437.

Tap into your inner artist

Several of downtown’s art galleries will be hosting special events and openings for August’s First Friday. Blue Sky Project, will host the opening of a collection of work by Adam Parker Smith in Blue Sky’s 8 N. Main St. space and a showing of art by Charlotte Gordon in the 33 N. Main St. space. CADC, 35 S. St. Clair St, will feature mixed-media furniture and paintings by Christy Jennewein and music by classical guitarist Eric Loy. Guests can sign up for September furniture classes taught by Jennewein. Color of Energy, 16 Brown St., will display works of art by gallery owner Mike Elsass. The Dayton Society of Painters and Sculptors, 48 High St., open 5 to 8 p.m., hosts the opening of an exhibit of landscape paintings by Sinclair Community College students and a preview of the Plein Air exhibit opening Aug. 19. Vega, Chaminade-Julienne High School’s a Capella group, will perform at 6:30 p.m.

The Dayton Visual Arts Center, 118 N. Jefferson St.:, open 5 to 8 p.m., will host a gallery talk featuring artists from the 21st annual Open Members Show, starting at 6:15 p.m. Artists include Matthew Burgy, Steve Hill, Kelly Joslin, Martin Hunter, Terry Welker and Jud Yalkut. Gallery 510 Fine Art, 510 E. Fifth St., will show new work by ceramist Tim Carter and laminated wood turnings by Tom Drummer. H. David Clay Studio, 33 S. St. Clair St., featuresFunctional and decorative pottery made on the premises. Lastly, K12 Gallery for Young People/TEJAS, 510 E. Third St., hosts the opening of “Distance,” a contemporary photography show from 6 to 9 p.m. The exhibition will feature more than 40 national and local artists.

Rock out with live music

Hey There Morgan performs at the First Friday @ 5 concert series at RiverScape during July 6, 2012's First Friday. This month's concert features local band Stranger, as well as free kayak and bike rentals.

The music doesn’t end after the First Friday @ 5 concert! Explore downtown’s other rockin’ live music spots. Blind Bob’s, 430 E. Fifth St., will have live music at 9 p.m., featuring GB&AJ, Gold Shoes and Hazy & the Rugged Child. Jay’s Seafood, 225 E. Sixth St., will host Puzzle of Light at 9 p.m. Omega Music, 318 E. Fifth St., also will have live music starting at 7 p.m. Trolley Stop, 530 E. Fifth St., hosts live music by the Andy Shaw Band beginning at 9:30 p.m.

Food and drink specials

If you’ve worked up an appetite during some fun downtown activities or want to quench your thirst with a drink special, we have plenty of choices for you. Many downtown restaurants offer dinner and drink specials for First Friday patrons.  Smokin’ Bar-B-Que, 200 E. Fifth St., Uno Chicago Grill, 126 N. Main St. and Franco’s Ristorante Italiano, 824 E. Fifth St., feature 10 percent off food. Coco’s Bistro, 515 Wayne Ave. and Thai 9, 11 Brown St., both offer 15 percent off food. Sa-Bai, 200 S. Jefferson St., offers 15 percent off food and a $5 Long Island Iced Tea. Dublin Pub, 300 Wayne Ave., has no cover and 20 percent off food. Deaf Monty’s Wine, 22 Brown St., features $5 for a 6-ounce glass of red or white wine.

De’Lish Café, 139 N. Main St., will host “Meet the Mixologist,” a meet-and-greet event from 6 to 10 p.m., during which De’Lish’s new drink menu will be unveiled. The event will feature hors d’oeuvres and wine and cocktail tastings. Lucky’s Taproom and Eatery, 520 E. Fifth St., will have dinner specials, along with the special tapping of a firkin of craft beer. Olive, an urban dive, 416 E. Third St., will feature Jeni’s Ice Cream and broadcast Rev. Cool’s “Around the Fringe” show on 91.3 WYSO-FM. Oregon Express, 336 E. Fifth St, will have a happy-hour band and half-price pizza from 4 to 8 p.m., with additional live music at 9:30 p.m. The Vault, 20 N. Jefferson St., has extended happy hour until 10 p.m., a live band and free food.

Entertainment for all ages

If you want to experience something different – like a bike ride, walking tour or indie film – downtown has options for you as well. The Ghosts, Cemeteries and Murders Walk of Downtown Dayton will begin at 7 p.m. at Courthouse Square, Third and Main streets. All walks are $10 per person, and advance reservations are required. Contact tour guide Leon Bey at 274-4749 or email grantsguru501c3@yahoo.com. At Don Crawford Plaza in front of Fifth Third Field, 220 N. Patterson Blvd., the monthly Courteous Mass Ride will meet at 5:15 p.m. for a ride through the city. Garden Station, 509 E. Fourth St., will host auditions for Dayton Out Loud, a variety show to be performed during the Sept. 14 Urban Nights. Open auditions begin at 7 p.m. for acts less than three minutes, including a Cappella, spoken word and poetry, and comedy. To sign up for an audition time, e-mail daytonoutloud@gmail.com.

Visitors observe paintings at Gallery 510 Fine Art. This month, the gallery will feature ceramist Tim Carter and laminated wood turnings by Tom Drummer.

Grass Roots Enrichment and Wellness Center, 400 E. Fifth St. Suite C, open 5 to 8 p.m., will feature art by Scott Ryan and have information about upcoming programs for children, teens and adults in the center’s new space above the Record Gallery in the Oregon District. Kids can enjoy hands-on activities and light refreshments will be provided. To check out a movie at The Neon, 130 E. Fifth St., call 222-SHOW (7469) for films and show times. Urban Krag, 125 Clay St., will have the climbing gym open until 11 p.m.

The Victoria Theatre, 138 N. Main St., will play the 1962 film “Murder on the Orient Express,” part of the theater’s Cool Films Series at 7:30 p.m. Free popcorn and soda served starting at 6:30 p.m.; tickets cost $5. Wiley’s Comedy Niteclub, 101 Pine St., will feature comedian Touchee Jackson, with opening acts by Adrian Cosby, Greg Sparks and Jack Wilson. Show begins at 9 p.m., tickets are $15. The Yellow Cab Building, 700 E. Fourth St., will host an art show featuring Robert Blackwood working on a 3D installation piece called “Crystal Vision,” from 6 to 11 p.m. Visitors can watch Blackwood work on the sculpture, which will be completed in time for the Sept. 7 First Friday.

Shop ‘til you drop

Many downtown retail shops have sales and special events during First Friday. From clothing to music stores, check out these downtown deals. Beaute Box, 116 W. Fifth St., will have free makeup lessons. Clash Consignments, 521 E. Fifth St., is hosting a celebration of the store’s one-year anniversary and move to its new location in the Oregon District. Live music by Infidel-icious, Ronin Ichi and Black Lotus Clan will start at 6 p.m., as well as henna by Lily Whitehead. Elysian Fields Books, 436 E. Fifth St., will have a book signing and reading at 7 p.m. by children’s author Scott Mallory, who recently released “Bad-Off Boris and the Cupcake Cave-In.” Hangar18, 114 N. St. Clair St., features 15 percent off all items.

 

Peace on Fifth, 519 E. Fifth St., will host a fair-trade food tasting. Record Gallery, 16 Brown St., will feature 20 percent off collectable albums and 10 percent off general merchandise. ReCreate, 438 E. Fifth St., will have a sale on select items, including new and used instruments, other music-related items, and original artwork. Amore! Designer Consignment Boutique, 16 Brown St., Bonnett’s Bookstore, 502 E. Fifth St., Feathers Vintage Clothing, 440 E. Fifth St., Found Treasures 4 You, 502 Wayne Ave., and Jimmy Modern, 605 E. Fifth St., will be broadcasting Rev. Cool’s “Around the Fringe” show on 91.3 WYSO-FM.

The First Friday @ 5 concert series is sponsored by Five Rivers MetroParks, Clear Channel Radio, Bud Light Lime and the Downtown Dayton Partnership. First Friday is presented by the Downtown Dayton Partnership with support from the Oregon District Business Association, the Ohio Arts Council and WYSO-FM 91.3. The Downtown Dayton Partnership’s website has a complete list of downtown’s arts and cultural amenities, as well as a dining guide, parking map and much more.

The Black Box Improv Theater – A Taste of Chicago in DYT

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Justin Howard had a vision to offer Dayton something unique, cool, entertaining – a taste of Chi-town in the DYT. And he’s had quite a trip to get here. Introducing The Black Box Improv Theater.

After graduating from Tipp in ’01, Howard headed to Wittenburg as a football player. An injury took him out of the game and landed him with his first opportunity as a dorm R.A. One of the perks of the job is priority registration, and he decided to take advantage of it. After hearing that the most popular class is Improvisation for the Theater, he decided to give it a shot.  One class and he was hooked.

Chicago-style Improv

You know Chicago style pizza, Chicago style hot dogs, and even Chicago style grammar guides. When his wife took a job in Chicago, it was time for Howard to learn Chicago-style improv. After his intro class in college, plus some experience writing, teaching and directing, Howard wanted to continue his artistic pursuits. He plugged into iO (formally Improv Olympic) to learn about the classic Chicago-based long-form improvisation style.

Opening night cast included David Michaels, Beth Conley, Kristen Howell, and Black Box founder Justin Howard

Most people are familiar with the “Whose Line…” style of improv where funky characters, witty one-liners, and quick responses are the goals. In this “short form” improv – the scenes come alive in an almost sporty way – encouraging  winners among the cast for who can be the funniest. Long-form values the funny, but focuses on the story, so it’s more laughter based on the surprise of where the characters go and less of the shock-factor. Often there’s no story at all in short-form (just jokes); the story in long-form is woven among many characters and carries the full length of the show. Howard explains it as, “a completely improvised one act play, complete with multiple characters each with unique relationships often intertwining in ways that seem like they were written ahead of time.  This is different from short form improv where a set of rules dictate a specific scene that begins and ends before a new set of rules dictate another scene. In short, we’re going to get on stage, start improvising and about an hour later you walk out saying “there’s no way they made that up” but we did.”

“Dayton is a Blank Slate”

According to Howard, the history of innovation exists today, but Dayton is still being redefined. He believes the arts are one of the strengths of the region and he’s excited to bring his unique form of improv to Dayton. Beyond the opportunity to help re-define Dayton as an arts town, Howard was attracted to the excitement, vibe and spirit of the downtown area. He and his wife recently moved from the suburbs to a house in the Oregon District where they get to enjoy accessibility of walking to work, restaurants, and the theater. Personally, he’s excited to be downtown, but there are great business benefits, too. Now, improv will be one of those walkable downtown destinations.

Howard also noticed immediately the great support of the Dayton community.  He’s found a home at the Cannery District on Third where the owners and fellow businesses have been really supportive. He’s excited by the feeling that residents, businesses and community volunteers all seem to be invested in his success as it plays into the success of our region. Whereas the ‘new thing’ is a big deal for a short time in some communities, only to be cast aside when the next fad comes along, Howard sees Dayton as a community where long-term relationships are developed.

How to go:

Long-form improv is new to Dayton, and Howard is excited to provide entertainment and education (classes forming soon!) available now.  Tickets are $9 and can be purchased online or at the door for their 9:30 PM shows on Fridays and Saturdays.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=waHPvnU7Ch4′]

Amateur and Professional Photographers – Bring Your Cameras Downtown!

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Amateur and professional photographers are invited to participate in Downtown in Focus, a photo contest aimed at finding new and distinctive shots of our downtown. The City of Dayton, Downtown Dayton Partnership, Kaplan College and Dayton Daily News are sponsoring the contest.

"Epcot, Dayton (RTA Hub)" by Robin Feld won 2011's professional "My Downtown Favorite" and "Best in Show" categories.

One amateur winner and one professional winner will be selected in each of the following categories:

  • Downtown Festivals: Images showcasing individuals or unique moments at any of downtown Dayton’s summer events or festivals.
  • Active Downtown: Photographs featuring people participating in active lifestyle activities, such as biking, kayaking, dancing and running in downtown Dayton.
  • Scenic Downtown: Creative images featuring buildings, architecture, skylines, parks, the river or any other picturesque view of downtown.
  • Best in Show (selected by the judges)

Terry Orf's "To Be Young Again" won last year's "My Downtown Favorite" and "Best in Show" in the amateur category.

A panel of judges ― consisting of professional photographers, photography editors and instructors, and community leaders ― will select the winners in each category and award a $250 cash prize to the Best in Show winner in each division. Honorable mentions also will be awarded at the discretion of the judges. In addition, City of Dayton Mayor Gary Leitzell will select one photo that best represents the City’s “Dayton Originals” motto. This photographer will receive a gift basket from the City of Dayton.

Contest winners will be recognized at the Sept. 14 Urban Nights, and all entries will be displayed in a special exhibit during Urban Nights.

From approximately 8 to 11 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 3, during First Friday, many of downtown’s buildings will be lit for photographers who would like to capture night shots of the city.

Debra L. Barnett's "Waiting for Fireworks" garnered the amateur award for "Downtown at Night" in 2011.

The deadline to submit photos is 5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 31, 2012. There is no fee for application or participation. Photographers are not required to be Dayton-area residents, but winners must be age 18 or older. Photos must have been taken in Greater Downtown ― which includes the Central Business District, Oregon Arts District, Webster Station and the ring of neighborhoods that surrounds downtown ― within the past calendar year. Official contest guidelines and entry forms are available at www.downtowndayton.org and www.daytonohio.gov.

Dayton Fashion Week and De’Lish Café To Host a First Friday’s Model Meet and Greet

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DFW's Pre-Launch Soiree was a sold out event and standing room only!

What do you get when you combine one of the most talked about events taking place in Dayton this summer and one of the chicest Restaurants in the Heart of Downtown Dayton—You get Dayton Fashion Week and De’Lish Café’s First Friday’s Model Meet and Greet!  With Dayton Fashion Week’s Inaugural event just weeks away they are getting the party started this Friday July 6 and this event is something that your entire family can attend!

From 6pm-8pm, DFW and De’Lish will have an Ice Cream Social for the DFW Kid Models. During this portion of the event, the kids will be introduced to attendees and there will be ice cream floats, music and games!  Then from 9pm-2am it will be the adult models turn to mix and mingle; still reveling in the success of DFW’s Pre-Launch Soiree in March, models selected from the second round of Casting Calls in May will be introduced."At De'Lish we try to correlate our food into art with the presentations" Co-Owner Jasmine Brown

 

Aside from hosting 2 out of 3 casting calls for DFW, Jasmine Brown  Co-Owner of De’Lish Cafe had this to say about her involvement with Dayton Fashion Week, “As a fashion enthusiast I’m really excited to see this happen in our city! Dayton is a very eclectic and artsy city so it’s not too far-fetched that we can do fashion as well. At De’Lish we try to correlate our food into art with the presentations, so for us we’re just excited to be a part of something so big.”

This event is free and open to the public, there will be lite hors d’oeuvres served but De’Lish will also have their full menu available for those who would like to purchase a full meal. De’Lish is located at 139 North Main Street  Dayton, OH 45402 right across the street from The Victoria Theatre.  Also, De’Lish Café’s well known Chef Anthony Head will be grilling out on De’Lish’s newly opened patio.  Tickets for Dayton Fashion Week are on sale now at De’Lish Café, SunWatch Indian Village, Joli Boutique, American Pi, and they are also available online at http://daytonfashionweek.com/html/tickets.html.  Tickets are going fast so be sure to buy yours today!!

Models stood outside in the cold and rain for a chance to be seen by DFW's panel of judges during their 3rd casting call.

Beat the Heat at July’s First Friday

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Downtown’s next free First Friday art hop will be held from 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, July 6. RiverScape MetroPark and the Oregon District will play host to two special First Friday events: the First Friday @ 5 concert series and the Call of the Tropics Festival.

Breakdancers perform at last year's First Friday @ 5 concert Series.

RiverScape MetroPark hosts the second concert in the First Friday @ 5 concert series, with Hey There Morgan performing from 5 to 7:30 p.m. The park’s concession stand will be open and beer will be sold from 5 to 7 p.m. MetroParks employees will demonstrate various kayaking skills on the river and free kayak rentals will be available, courtesy of Cox Media Group Ohio, and free bike rentals will be available as well, courtesy of AAA.  The First Friday @ 5 concert series is sponsored by Five Rivers MetroParks, Clear Channel Radio, Bud Light Lime and the Downtown Dayton Partnership.

Call of the Tropics, a festival celebrating Tiki culture presented by the Fraternal Order of Moai’s Kon-Tiki chapter, will host a block party in the Oregon District from 5 to 10 p.m. Live surf and rockabilly bands will perform, including the Nick Kizirnis Band, Crazy Joe and the Mad River Outlaws, Team Void, and Cherry Lee and the Daddy Katz. The festival also will include Tiki carvers, street performers, hot rod displays and vendors. An exhibition of Tiki art will be displayed at Color of Energy gallery.

For parents who would like to enjoy First Friday without kids in tow, Mini University, located adjacent to Miami Valley Hospital at 28 Hill St., will offer discounted prices during First Friday. Childcare is offered from 6 to 11 p.m., and a light meal will be provided, along with plenty of fun entertainment. Reservations are required and will be accepted through June 29. Call 224-3916.

Galleries galore

July’s First Friday offers plenty of new exhibitions and gallery openings to check out. H. David Clay Studio, 33 S. St. Clair St, and the CADC, 35 S. St. Clair St., will feature a variety of works by multiple artists. Color of Energy, 16 Brown St., will host the opening reception for the Call of the Tropics art exhibition, featuring locally and nationally known Tiki artists and carvers. From 5 to 8p.m., the Dayton Society of Painters and Sculptors, 48 High St., will exhibit an eclectic show of artwork from more than 80 DSPS members. Acoustic guitarists Charlie Emmerich and Jonathan Besecker will perform from 6 to 7 p.m. Blue Sky Project, will host two new art shows. Abstract work by Katherine Mann will be exhibited at 8 N. Main St., with performance art by Mann and choreographer Rodney Veal. The 33 N. Main St. space will show “At Table,” a collection of photographs by Glenna Jennings.

Visitors browse featured art at K12 Gallery for Young People.

The Dayton Visual Arts Center, 118 N. Jefferson St., will feature karaoke and cornhole games during the exhibition of “Drawing Marathon,” a collection of work by various artists from 5 to 8 p.m. The opening of “Contemplations – Post-Modern Landscapes,” by Wisconsin mixed-media artist Jay Batista, will be held at Gallery 510 Fine Art, 510 E. Fifth St. A meet and greet with the artist will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. Work by students from St. Anthony’s School will be exhibited at K12 Gallery for Young People and a display of mixed-media art will be show in the gallery’s TEJAS space at 510 E. Third St.

Music

If you’re in the mood for even more music after the First Friday @ 5 concert, you’re in luck. Many downtown venues will be hosting live bands during First Friday. Blind Bob’s, 430 E. Fifth St., will have live music beginning at 9 p.m., featuring Brian Wilkinson, the Dirty Socialites, Brandon Hawk and Jamy Holiday. Canal Street Tavern, 308 E. First St., will host the The Rolling Stones vs. Beatles English Invasion Tribute, featuring Miss Lissa and Company, Ambiant Drive, Citizens Unrest and others. Doors open at 8 p.m. and the concert begins at 9 p.m., with a $5 cover. “Feel Good Fridays” take place at De’Lish Café, 139 N. Main St., with top-shelf drink specials from 6 to 8 p.m., as well as live jazz by the Wade Baker Quartet from 9 p.m. to midnight. $5 cover.

Garden Station, 509 E. Fourth St., will feature local artists performing protest-themed music for Protest in the Park from 7 to 10 p.m. Jay’s Seafood, 225 E. Sixth St., will host music by Puzzle of Light at 9 p.m., and Omega Music, 318 E. Fifth St., will have live music beginning at 7 p.m. Bring your receipt from Basho Apparel to Omega and receive 15 percent off your purchase. Trolley Stop, 530 E. Fifth St., also will have live music beginning at 9:30 p.m. Remixx Lounge, 146 E. Third St., will have two-for-one martini specials during performances by Donnell Woods, Yvette “Diva” Williams and DJ Night at 8 p.m. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door. Click here to purchase tickets.

Work up an appetite

Get your night started by grabbing a bite to eat at a downtown restaurant. Franco’s Ristorante Italiano, 824 E. Fifth St., Smokin’ Bar-B-Que, 200 E. Fifth St., and Uno Chicago Grill, 126 N. Main St., will offer 10 percent off food during First Friday. Thai 9, 11 Brown St., Coco’s Bistro, 515 Wayne Ave., feature 15 percent off food. Sa-Bai, 200 S. Jefferson St., also has 15 percent off food as well as a $5 Long Island Iced Tea. Dublin Pub, 300 Wayne Ave., will have no cover and 20 percent off food.

Lucky’s Taproom and Eatery, 520 E. Fifth St., will have dinner specials, along with the special tapping of a firkin of craft beer. Mr. Hyman’s Fine Dining, 40 N. Main St. Lobby, features a $10 all-you-can-eat buffet and live jazz. Olive, an urban dive, 416 E. Third St., will serve Jeni’s Ice Cream and broadcast Rev. Cool’s “Around the Fringe” show on 91.3 WYSO-FM. Oregon Express, 336 E. Fifth St., will have a happy-hour band and half-price pizza from 4 to 8 p.m., with additional live music at 9:30 p.m. Deaf Monty’s Wine, 22 Brown St., features 6-ounce glasses of red or white wine for $5. The Vault, 20 N. Jefferson St., will have an extended happy hour until 10 p.m., with a live band and free food.

Entertainment for the whole family

From climbing to comedy, downtown has plenty of entertainment options on First Friday. The Ghosts, Cemeteries and Murders Walk of Downtown Dayton will begin at 7 p.m. at Courthouse Square. All walks are $10 per person, and advance reservations are required. Contact tour guide Leon Bey at 274-4749 or email grantsguru501c3@yahoo.com. The monthly Courteous Mass Ride will meet at 5:15 p.m. for a ride through the city at Don Crawford Plaza in front of Fifth Third Field, 220 N. Patterson Blvd.

Clash Consignments will feature sales and live music during July's First Friday.

Urban Krag, 125 Clay St., will have its climbing gym open until 11 p.m. The Yellow Cab Building, 400 E. Fourth St., will host a Hip Hop Art and Dance Show, featuring students of the Funk Lab and an exhibition of art inspired by hip hop culture from 5 to 11 p.m. The all-ages event will feature a tagging wall to learn and practice graffiti skills, and refreshments will be provided. Victoria Theatre, 138 N. Main St., will show the 1962 film “The Birdman of Alcatraz,” part of the theater’s Cool Films Series at 7:30 p.m. Free popcorn and soda served starting at 6:30 p.m. Tickets cost $5 and can be bought at the door. Wiley’s Comedy Niteclub, 101 Pine St., will host the second of the four-night Wiley’s Comedy Contest, showcasing up-and-coming comedians at 8 p.m.; tickets cost $3. The Neon, 130 E. Fifth St., will have films running during First Friday. Call 222-SHOW (7469) for films and show times.

Downtown summer sales

Retail shops will be featuring sales and specials throughout First Friday. Amore! Designer Consignment Boutique, 16 Brown St., will debut new summer apparel. Basho Apparel, 521 E. Fifth St., will feature 15 percent off to anyone who brings in their receipt from Omega Music.  Beaute Box, 116 W. Fifth St., will feature free makeup lessons for visitors. Clash Consignments, 113 E. Third St., will have a sale on select items and live music. Feathers Vintage Clothing, 440 E. Fifth St., and Jimmy Modern, 605 E. Fifth St. will both be broadcasting Rev. Cool’s “Around the Fringe” show on 91.3 WYSO-FM. Hangar18, 114 N. St. Clair St., will feature 15 percent off all items. Peace on Fifth, 519 E. Fifth St., will have a fair-trade food tasting. ReCreate, 438 E. Fifth St., will have a sale on select items, including new and used instruments, other music-related items, and original artwork.

First Friday is presented by the Downtown Dayton Partnership with support from the Oregon District Business Association, the Ohio Arts Council and WYSO-FM 91.3. The Downtown Dayton Partnership’s website has a complete list of downtown’s arts and cultural amenities, as well as a dining guide, parking map and much more.

Downtown Dayton’s Biggest Street Party Returns May 11

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Approximately 30,000 people come downtown for Urban Nights.

On Urban Nights, downtown will be teeming with activity and people ready to enjoy the dining, nightlife, art, music, shopping and housing that can be found only in Dayton. The next free Urban Nights will be held 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, May 11, in downtown, the Oregon Arts District and Wright-Dunbar Business Village.

Click here for a complete performance schedule, map of participating venues, and list of all participating locations’ events and specials.

The Green Street Project, designed to celebrate all things green and promote environmental sustainability, will include interactive and art-making activities for the whole family, exhibits on green technology, games, and more on Main Street, which will be closed between Second and Third streets. The Green Street Project is presented by the Downtown Dayton Partnership, Montgomery County Solid Waste District and PNC Bank. Activities include:

• The Dayton Regional Green 3 Initiative will host fun and educational activities and booths to promote greener and more sustainable practices in the Dayton region.

• The Montgomery County Solid Waste District’s two mascots, Curby the Cardinal and Lucky the Ladybug, will be on hand, as well as its Extreme Recycling trailer.

• The Dayton Art Institute will lead a community art mural-making project using recyclable materials.

• Zoot Theatre Company will demonstrate its larger puppets and visitors will have an opportunity to create masks out of reused and found materials.

• Visitors can ride a segway, courtesy of Dayton Segway Tours; chalk the street; have their picture taken in an open-air photo booth, courtesy of Lift-Off Entertainment; and check out an eco-friendly bus from Greater Dayton RTA and the eco-friendly Buick LaCrosse eAssist, courtesy of Bob Ross Buick.

• The Victoria Theatre Association will provide activities inspired by the Broadway musical Wicked.

Urban Bikes @ Urban Nights is a ride through the event’s action ending at Courthouse Square.

Urban Nights visitors can get around the event by participating in Urban Bikes @ Urban Nights, a community ride through downtown that starts at 6 p.m. at Don Crawford Plaza in front of Fifth Third Field. The best way to see as much as possible during Urban Nights is to walk, and many of the destinations are just a short distance from each other. Greater Dayton RTA also will provide free event trolleys to help visitors get around.

As visitors make their way through the Urban Nights action, those locals who are professional and amateur photographers and videographers are encouraged to capture some shots or footage to submit in the 2012 Downtown in Focus photo contest and a new video contest, Downtown on Film. This year’s photo contest will include a category highlighting downtown festivals and events, and the theme for the video contest will be “Summer in the City.” Details for both contests will be announced in early summer, with deadlines in August and winners announced at the Sept. 14 Urban Nights.

Live Entertainment on Six Stages

Roaming performers will entertain visitors throughout downtown and the Oregon Arts District, and stages will be set up throughout the Urban Nights area. A performance schedule follows:

Main Stage: Courthouse Square, sponsored by DP&L
5 to 5:50 p.m.                     Al Holbrook Band
5:50 to 6:10 p.m.              Circle Nerdz (breakdance crew)
6:10 to 7 p.m.                     Wheels
7 to 7:20 p.m.                    The Dropbacks (juggling duo)
7:20 to 8:10 p.m.              Hey There Morgan
8:10 to 8:30 p.m.               Soul Fire Tribe (fire dancers)
8:30 to 10 p.m.                   TOUCH

A variety of entertainment can be found on the Urban Nights stages.

Spotlight on Sinclair: Second and Jefferson streets by the Kettering Tower
5:30 to 5:50 p.m.               Sinclair Chamber Choir
6 to 6:20 p.m.                     Sinclair Opera & Musical Theater Ensemble
6:30 to 6:50 p.m.               Sinclair “Classical Café”
7 to 7:30 p.m.                     Sinclair Men’s & Women’s Ensembles
7:30 to 8 p.m.                     Sinclair Chorale
8 to 8:30 p.m.                     Sinclair Chamber Choir
8:30 to 9 p.m.                     Sinclair Gospel Ensemble
9 to 9:30 p.m.                     Sinclair Men’s Ensemble
9:30 to 10 p.m.                  Sinclair Gospel Ensemble

Community Stage: Corner of Third and Jefferson streets
Special thanks to Harvey Lehrner, owner of Don’s Pawn Shop, for use of the parking lot.
5 to 7 p.m.                           Performances by people from the community
7 to 10 p.m.                        Open call karaoke

MetroParks Pavilion at RiverScape MetroPark: Monument Avenue and Patterson Boulevard
5 to 5:30 p.m.                     Funklab
5:30 to 6:30 p.m.              Okay Lindon
6:30 to 7 p.m.                     Party Pleasers (DJ)
7 to 8 p.m.                            Son del Caribe
8 to 8:30 p.m.                     Party Pleasers (DJ)
8:30 to 10 p.m.                  Mojo Flo

Live on Five: In the historic Oregon Arts District next to the Trolley Stop 
6 to 6:45 p.m.                     David Burris
7 to 7:45 p.m.                    White Rabbit Band
8 to 8:45 p.m.                     Nasty Bingo
9 to 9:45 p.m.                     Ape the Ghost

Wright Dunbar Entertainment: Third and Williams streets
The Plaza Stage:
5:30 to 9 p.m.                     Tribute bands featuring the music of Jimi Hendrix, Santana and Bob Marley
The Lounge:
6 p.m.                                    Cyrstal Echols and line dancing
7:30 p.m.                             Big Gil and his Funky All Stars featuring Valeria
Grillin’ & Chillin’ Tent:
5 to 10 p.m.                        Master G spinning music for the dance tent
Gospel Karaoke Cafe:
5 to 8 p.m.                           Open mic with music by DJ Jerry Sanders

Art and More for Everyone

Art is at the heart of Urban Nights and often can be found in unexpected places.

In addition to the Green Street Project, several Urban Nights venues will host activities fun for the young and young at heart. Visitors can get their hands dirty at K12 Gallery for Young People/TEJAS,510 E. Third St., by working on the community art project the Xenia Avenue Mosaic Mural. Participants will have their name added to a plaque dedicated to the volunteers who helped with the project.

Garden Station on the corner of Fourth and Wayne will host a Rock Band challenge and an urban putt-putt golf course made of pallets and old tires. The CADC, formerly the Cannery Art and Design Center, will celebrate its grand re-opening in its new location at 35 S. St. Clair St. with art, games and more. My Father’s House Childcare and Learning Center,35 S. Jefferson St., will host entertainment by a clown and offer balloon animals for children and free snow cones. The Dayton Metro Library,215 E. Third St., will offer arts and entertainment for adults and children. At the Dayton Art Institute, 456 Belmonte Park North, visitors can enjoy free parking and family activities.

Tour some of downtown’s historical places during Urban Nights, including The Dayton Woman’s Club,225 N. Ludlow St., a landmark Victorian home circa 1848, and the 107-year-old First Lutheran Church,138 W. First St. Of course, lots of history can be found in the Wright-Dunbar Business Village. Hop on the Wright Flyer trolley and celebrate Dayton’s rich cultural legacy at multiple locations in this historic area along West Third Street between Broadway and Williams streets. Visit the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park and the Wright Bros. Bicycle Shop; visit business open houses; and experience art, poetry, food and live entertainment.

Visitors also can tour Activated Spaces’ Street Level Art Competition. Check out local artists’ displays of works focused on the theme “Naturally Dayton” in windows throughout downtown. Vote for your favorite artist by scanning the QR code in the respective storefront window. The Urban Nights People’s Choice winner will receive gallery space for an exhibition of his or her work at a local gallery or restaurant. Artwork can be viewed at:

• 100 E. Third St.: Bethany Ramsey, Robin Dakin and Amanda Sue Allen
• Talbott Tower, 131 N. Ludlow St.: Philipe Payne, Talia Shade and Spire Arts/Montgomery County Board of Developmental Disabilities Services
• Main Street Garage, corner of Main and First streets: Mikee Huber and John Murphy
• The Biltmore, 210 N. Main St.: Dayton Creative Syndicate

While you’re touring about, check out some of downtown’s living options. The following housing units will be open:

• The Cannery Lofts,500 E. Third St.
• First Place,330 W. First St.
• The Landing,115 W. Monument Ave.
• Litehouse Living at Canal Block,135 N. Patterson Blvd.
• Patterson Square Townhomes,237 E. First St.
• St. Clair Lofts,35 S. St. Clair St.

Grown-Ups’ Night Out

Visitors never know what they might see during Urban Nights.

For those families who’d rather drop off the kids before exploring Urban Nights, Mini University at Miami Valley Hospital, 28 Hill St., and Montgomery County’s Mini University, 40 Vista View Dr., will offer discounted childcare. Care will be offered from 6 to 11 p.m., which includes dinner, for $30 per child or $50 for two children. All teachers have been fingerprinted and have completed background checks. Children must be pre-registered; call and reserve a spot at 224-3916.

And for those who’d like to get an early start on Urban Nights ― or stay late ― several venues will host events that fit the bill. The Crowne Plaza Hotel’s Stars Lounge will host “Start and Finish,” a dinner event to bookend Urban Nights, in the rooftop restaurant and lounge. From 4 to 6 p.m., enjoy a happy hour buffet of hors d’oeuvres, free to all bar guests. Join the “10 O’Clock Cast Party” from 10 p.m. to midnight for half-priced light dinners, including burgers, sandwiches and wings. In addition, the bars, restaurants and nightclubs in the Oregon Arts District and throughout downtown will keep the Urban Nights party going past 10 p.m. Click here for a complete list of downtown’s nightlife hotspots.

A weekend-long event also will open during Urban Nights and continue after the event ends. The Dayton Circus Creative Collective will host its seventh annual multimedia arts event, Sideshow 7, at the Yellow Cab building, 700 E. Fourth St. This two-day multimedia arts and music extravaganza includes an event after-party until 1 a.m.

Shop for a variety of one-of-a-kind items, such as original artwork; used and vintage clothing, furniture, records and books; gift items and much more. More than 20 stores downtown will offer sales and special events. Be sure to visit the new Pop-Up Shops:

• American π, 37 S. St. Clair St.: This gift and accessories boutique carries items made in the United States, including handbags, greeting cards, candles and food items.
• Arin 27 S. St. Clair St.: Shop owner and jewelry designer Brooke Medlin collaborates with Dayton’s creatives to showcase beautifully designed goods for self and home, along with Medlin’s line of jewelry. Visitors will be able to watch the creation process in action at Arin’s on-site studio.
• Vintage Barbershop 110 W. Fifth St.: This old-school, classic barbershop offers haircuts, hot steam towel shaves, facials and more.

Of course, all this running is bound to make a person hungry ― and thirsty. More than 30 downtown restaurants, taverns, coffee shops and nightclubs will get into the Urban Nights spirit by offering themed drinks and menu items, special discounts, hosting arts events, and more. For example, look for volunteers from the City of Dayton’s Sister Cities outside Boulevard Haus, 329 E. Fifth St.; check out brewing demos at Press, 257 Wayne Ave.; try one of the more than 60 bourbons and view an exhibit of sculptures by artist Ron Hundt at The Century Bar,10 S. Jefferson St.; try a pint from a firkin of craft beer at Lucky’s Taproom & Eatery,520 E. Fifth St.; and enjoy music by Puzzle of Light at Jay’s Seafood, 225 E. Sixth St.

Urban Nights is presented by the Downtown Dayton Partnership, Montgomery County and the City of Dayton, with additional support from PNC Bank, Montgomery County Solid Waste District, DP&L, Greater Dayton RTA, Bud Light Lime, the Downtown Priority Board, Sinclair Community College, Mix 107.7-FM and the Ohio Arts Council.

Follow Urban Nights on Facebook at www.facebook.com/UrbanNightsDayton for regular updates and more information or call 937-224-1518.

New Businesses Popping Up Downtown

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Peace on Fifth in the Oregon Arts District is a success story from the pilot phase of Activated Spaces' Pop-Up Project.

Peace on Fifth in the Oregon Arts District is a success story from the pilot phase of Activated Spaces' Pop-Up Project.

Three businesses will be up and running by May 4, the next First Friday art hop downtown, as part of the second phase of the Pop-Up Project, part of an initiative to fill downtown Dayton storefronts called Activated Spaces. The businesses selected for the second phase of the project are:

• American π, 37 S. St. Clair St.: This gift and accessories boutique will carry items made in the United States, including handbags, greeting cards, candles and food items. The store will be open Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• Arin, 27 S. St. Clair St.: Shop owner and jewelry designer Brooke Medlin will collaborate with Dayton artists and other creatives to showcase beautifully designed goods for self and home, along with Medlin’s line of jewelry that includes rings, earrings, personalized necklaces and more. Visitors will be able to watch the creation process in action in Arin’s on-site studio. Rotating guest artists will set up mini-studios in the store and spend two weeks working on a collection of products to be launched at every month’s First Friday art hop. The store will be open Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Call 937-640-0117.

• Vintage Barbershop, 110 W. Fifth St.: This old-school, classic barbershop will offer haircuts, hot steam towel shaves, facials and more. Haircuts will be $12 and shaves and facials will be $16, with special pricing for seniors. “Our goal is open a classy, professional barbershop while doing our part to make downtown a better place and trying to influence other businesses to follow suit,” owner Ron West said. The barbershop will be open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Call 937-321-6165.

The women who participated in the pilot phase of the Pop-Up Project.

The entrepreneurs who participated in the pilot phase of the Pop-Up Project. Lisa Scott (far right) of Beaute Box extended her lease, as did London Coe (second from right) of Peace on Fifth.

These businesses have three- or six-month leases, although the hope is the business owners will extend those leases ― as happened in the pilot phase of the Pop-Up Project. Indeed, the second phase of the project builds on the success of its pilot, launched in November 2011 for the holiday shopping season. Two of the three business owners in the pilot extended their leases: Beaute Box, 116 W. Fifth St., and Peace on Fifth, 519 E. Fifth St. In addition, Amore! Designer Consignment Boutique, 16 Brown St., which opened at the same time as the Pop-Up pilots, plans to remain open on a long-term basis, and Basho Screen Printing and Apparel, 521-523 E. Fifth St., opened in a space occupied by a Pop-Up retailer after becoming interested in the location due to the buzz surrounding the project.

Activated Spaces’ Pop-Up Project, which helped fill 2,300 square feet of retail space during its pilot phase, is led by volunteers from the young professional organizations Generation Dayton and updayton. The project is a strategic effort to fill vacant street-level space and spur interest in opening a business downtown that’s part of the Greater Downtown Dayton Plan, a strategic blueprint for the future of downtown.

“The Pop-Up Shops have helped enliven downtown while building on growing momentum for the center city,” said Tom Razauskas, who owns the building housing Beaute Box and the Vintage Barbershop. Razauskas and other participating downtown property owners have supported the project by providing reduced rental rates. “It has been refreshing to work with volunteers and business owners who really believe in downtown and are excited about its future.”

A kickoff event for the Pop-Up Shops will be held from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, May 18. It will start at Beaute Box, 116 W. Fifth St., and end at Peace on Fifth, 519 E. Fifth St., with stops at all the Pop-Up Shops in between.  Raffle tickets will be sold that night $5 each, with all proceeds benefiting Activated Spaces, and prizes will be drawn at each stop. Additional details will be available soon at www.activatedspaces.org.

Basho Apparel

Basho Apparel was attracted to open a downtown location in part due to the buzz surrounding the Pop-Up Project. (Photo courtesy of Carly Short)

“The Pop-Up Project provides a low-risk, low-cost, flexible way to showcase local businesses while adding vibrancy to downtown,” said Shanon Potts, past chair of Generation Dayton and Activated Spaces volunteer. “The long-term goal of the project is to convert temporary leases into traditional leases, while establishing downtown as a regional destination for shopping for one-of-a-kind items and retail services.”

“This project also supports local, creative entrepreneurs as they take a risk and test out their business concepts while bringing renewed life to downtown storefronts,” said Scott Murphy, immediate past chair of updayton and Activated Spaces volunteer. “Visitors who support these pop-up shops will help to spur a more permanent retail environment in our downtown ― the next step in downtown revitalization.”

Visit www.activatedspaces.org or e-mail getinvolved@updayton.com for more information about Activated Spaces.

Change is in your hands with updayton

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It’s almost time for the annual updayton Summit!

What? You’re not excited? Well, maybe it’s because you don’t know what it is or how much it’s impacted the Dayton area. Allow me to fill you in!

updayton was conceived in 2007 as a way to attract and keep young talent through engagement, connection and empowerment of the young creatives in the Miami Valley. The organization partners with and is sponsored by other local organizations and businesses.

Current updayton Director Yvette Kelly-Fields says, “The Summit provides a platform for people to use creative thinking and problem solving to address issues that affect the attraction and retention of young talent to the region. We are starting to see the fruits of our labor as we see more young professionals moving into the downtown, opening businesses and filling local jobs.”

Former Director Scott Murphy said he believes the summit has helped to spotlight critical issues to help keep more young people in the region. He enjoys the energy and excitement associated with the event and said he’s “particularly proud of how we’ve been able to take the feedback we receive from Summit attendees and turn that into recommendations for local leaders.”

As a graduating college student, I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard my fellow students complain there isn’t enough opportunity for them as young entrepreneurs around Dayton. They’d rather try their luck in a different city, or even a different state that seems to have better employment options.

But as the updayton site says, we can be the change we want to see, and it has been successful in its endeavors for community and economic change.

“Each project last year created both community and economic impact,” said Maria Norman, in charge of public relations for the organization.

In fact, the current iteration of this very website (Dayton MostMetro.com) was born out of the first updayton summit three years ago, when summit participants in a live survey of various community project ideas voted overwhelming for a comprehensive online resource for the Dayton Region.  Since then, the site has grown with the help of over 40 volunteer interns, writers and editors, and has become the go-to site for tens of thousands of people in the region wanting to connect with things to see, do and get involved with.

Winner of the "Unifying the Divide: Bridge Paint Project" - Dayton Wags

Currently, the Creative Communities project is continuing to work on a major beautification project between the Oregon District and South Park neighborhoods called “Unifying the Divide: Bridge Paint”. “This will raise the visibility of both areas and serve as a new attraction and destination point for the City for native Daytonians and visitors,” said Norman.

The focus this year is on increasing residents’ use of alternative transportation, aiding the integration of diverse immigrants in the area, reviving the Twin Towers neighborhood, and developing a sustainable program to improve community’s college students’ perceptions of downtown and encouraging them to participate in and experience all downtown has to offer. Also, for the first time, updayton will present a panel of experts in urban revitalization and who will show how they are changing the game in their community. They’ve been appropriately named, Game Changers.

“It  has been said, if you want to change the world, start with your city, start with the updayton Summit. Change starts there,” says Director Kelly-Fields.

The updayton Summit will be held on Friday, April 27, 2012 at the Dayton Art Institute. For more information or to register to attend, visit their website at updayton.com or check them out on Facebook.

Urban Arts Showcase Takes the Stage This Friday

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HBO Def Poet Black Ice will headline this Friday's "The Signature: A Poetic Medley Show."

HBO Def Poet Black Ice will headline this Friday's "The Signature: A Poetic Medley Show."

Oral Funk Poetry Productions will launch its fifth season of “The Signature: A Poetic Medley Show” at The Loft Theatre, 126 N. Main St., from 9 to 11 p.m. this Friday, April 20.

The season-opening performance will be a celebration of National Poetry Month. The theme will be Jamaican and Caribbean culture through spoken word, dramatizations, live music, vocalists, visual arts and more.

Featured performers include Tony Award-winning HBO Def Poet Black Ice, who appeared on six seasons of the popular show and starred in Def Poetry on Broadway. He’s lent his voice to hip-hop projects by such artists at Method Man and opened for Mary J. Blige on her 2006 world tour. Black Ice also has appeared on BET’s Live 8 Concert Special, Rap City the Basement and 106th & Park, as well as on NBC’s Showtime at the Apollo.

Joining Black Ice will be singer and poet Scorpio Blues, who also has appeared on HBO’s Def Poetry. Her recent CD, Scorpio Rising, features her soul music and some poetry, while her first CD, Blue Blushin’, was an acclaimed poetry work. In 2006, Scorpio Rising became the first female and the first African-American to win the Ill List Poets championship. She also has her own spoken word and music entertainment, management and promotions company called Hot Water Cornbread.

The Flex Crew Reggae Band, a popular group from Columbus, will perform live music. Its seven members hail from a variety of musical backgrounds, resulting in a versatile and high-energy band with an array of musical styles, including funk, R&B, soul, hip hop and roots reggae. In addition, local spoken word poet I Witness Life will emcee.

Tickets cost $20 and can be purhcased at www.ticketcenterstage.com, by calling 937-228-3830 or at the door.

Poet Scorpio Blues also will perform during The Signature.

Poet Scorpio Blues also will perform during The Signature.

Oral Funk Poetry Productions has partnered with De’Lish Café, 139 N. Main St., for the event. The restaurant, located across the street from the theater, will offer special Jamaican and Caribbean menu items and drinks.

During its first four seasons, “The Signature: A Poetic Medley Show” featured local and national poets, musicians, actors, vocalists, dancers and visual artists presenting numerous forms of self-expression ― often to sold-out crowds.

“We’re so excited to continue producing our show at The Loft Theatre after moving the production to this great venue last year,” said Sierra Leone of Oral Funk Poetry Productions. “This location has more seating for our shows, which often sell out, and has allowed us to kick up the performance a notch thanks to access to more professional production equipment and capabilities in the theater. We also have appreciated the opportunity to work with and learn from the professionals at The Human Race Theatre Company.”

Presenting The Downtown Dayton Revival Music Festival

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John Legend

The Downtown Dayton Revival Music Festival has just been announced along with the initial lineup for its inaugural year – including performances by several acts with local ties, like John Legend (a Springfield native), Guided by Voices (based in Dayton), Motel Beds (based in Dayton) and the Heartless Bastards (Dayton/Cincinnati area natives) . This two day street festival is scheduled for September 8th & 9th, 2012 and will have 3 stages in key locations in downtown Dayton.

Confirmed acts include:

Several more performers will be announced in the coming weeks, and as DMM is a Media Sponsor we will have festival updates right here as they happen!

Guided By Voices

“We are very excited to fill the streets of downtown Dayton with exceptional music from a wide variety of artists.  From Grammy winners to local talent, and everything in between this will be a weekend to remember,” said Matt Luongo, President, Downtown Revival, LLC. A Dayton native himself, Luongo graduated from the University of Dayton in 1998 and is enthusiastic about creating this music fest right here in Dayton.

The Downtown Dayton Revival Music Festival is to be a mix of national and local talent, with several slots still open for local acts.  If you are interested in playing this event, send them your info at info@downtownrevival.com.  In addition to over 30 bands, festival organizers are planning family friendly events as well as other activities to be announced.

Two day passes will be available at www.downtownrevival.com beginning April 24th, 2012 at 10:00a.m. A limited number of discounted early bird ticket will also go on sale on April 24th and will include entry into a contest for a VIP package upgrade including reserved seating, VIP hospitality tent, invitations to a Friday night preview party, artist meet and greet and more.

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Small Effort: Big Effect

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There’s a lot of work to do to continue to make our region vibrant and exciting. Some jobs are so big and we as community members feel helpless to do anything.

This isn’t that kind of story.

Give here.

Before the Clean-Up

This is a story about a group of people who had a simple vision and they are getting it done! Last year at the 2011 updayton Summit, a Creative Communities team emerged with the idea that our neighborhoods are great assets to the community and they should be walkable, accessible and friendly. Nice idea, right? So, how do you DO something about it?

Safe and Accessible After Clean-Up

The Creative Communities team (CC) focused on the pedestrian walkway that crosses 35 and connects the historic neighborhoods of South Park and Oregon District. These two neighborhoods have active neighborhood associations, easy access to entertainment and recreation, and beautiful parks. A bridge connecting the two (and helping neighbors avoid 35 when traveling) makes perfect sense.

Unfortunately, no one wanted to walk over the walkway. Overgrown weeds, tight corners, and a general rusty broken-down look made it feel unsafe. CC came up with a big job for volunteers, but one they knew they could do and do well with the right support.

At the end of last summer they hosted a major clean-up day. It’s impressive what a little elbow grease can do to de-weed, clean and make the bridge a lot more appealing and usable. But they’re not done yet. They don’t want it ‘not ugly.’ They want to see it as a favorite place for community members to enjoy (especially with its close access to parks). It’s gettin’ prettified!

Wanna know where YOU come in? They need your help in three ways:

1) Come out for the follow-up clean up (prepping for the painting) on April 28.

2) Come out for the painting (grown-up paint by numbers = awesome) on May 5.

3) Help out the kick-starter campaign so they can get all the materials they need to make this happen and keep it going into the future. The thing about kick-starter: yeah, a big donation is awesome. But your $5 matched up with the donations from 10 other people giving $5 adds up pretty quick.

Here’s a video from YouTube that will help you know what to expect at the Paint Day this May. Don’t pass up being a part of this opportunity!

Celebrate Spring at March First Friday

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Complementary chocolate is served to visitors during December 2011's First Friday at Peace on Fifth. The shop will offer fair trade chocolates to visitors again March 2.

Explore downtown Dayton during the next free First Friday art hop, held from 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, March 2, with activities for all to enjoy.

This month’s First Friday will feature a variety of live music, shopping opportunities and gallery openings.  As the weather warms up, many downtown shops will feature sales on winter items. Roving musicians and entertainers will perform in downtown’s public spaces for visitors to watch and enjoy, and many businesses will offer specials to First Friday visitors.

Explore your artistic side

First Friday gives downtown visitors an opportunity to explore numerous art exhibit openings. Check out the Dayton Visual Arts Center’s opening at 118 N. Jefferson St. from 5 to 8 p.m. “The Cline Show: An All-Area University Exhibit,” will feature works in all types of media and showcase art by more than 20 local students from Wright State University, the University of Dayton and Sinclair Community College. Mike Elsass will premiere new works of art at his gallery, Color of Energy, 16 Brown St., and works of art by students from St. Luke’s Elementary will be displayed at K12 Gallery for Young People, 510 E. Third St.

Making their First Friday debut, the Dayton Society of Painters and Sculptors, 48 High St., will highlight artists from the Dayton Printmakers Cooperative for the DSPS’ seventh annual Printmakers Show. Featuring printmaking demos and refreshments, the DSPS will be open from 5 to 8 p.m.

The Cannery Art and Design Center, 434 E. Third St., will show work by Springboro calligrapher Ann Bain in celebration of her 80th birthday. The exhibit, “Exuberance,” will showcase a variety of 2D and 3D pieces. Press, 257 Wayne Ave., will feature work by local artists Glen Clark, Craig Tirey, Erich Reith and Amanda Barb

osa. Stop by H. David Clay Studio, 33 S. St. Clair St., to check out functional and decorative pottery made on site. Gallery 510 Fine Art, 510 E. Fifth St., will showcase a variety of work created by local artists for sale, including jewelry, quilts, scarves and ceramics.

The Record Gallery will broadcast Rev. Cool's show, "Around the Fringe," on 91.3 WYSO-FM during this month's First Friday.

Get your groove on

First Friday offers a variety of ways to get your live music fix, whether you’re in the mood to rock out or kick back to some lighter tunes. Canal Street Tavern, 308 E. First St., will host a CD release party for local band BJSR featuring Ape the Ghost, Young Heirlooms and Lauren Eylise. The Ohio Coffee Company, 46 W. Fifth St., will feature Sara and Mic Riley playing “A Sweet Sound” beginning at 7 p.m. This event has no cover and the coffee bar and kitchen will be open. At De’Lish Café, 139 N. Main St., “Feel Good Fridays” will be in full swing from 6 to 8 p.m., with top-shelf drink specials in the De’Lish lounge, and live jazz by the Wade Baker Quartet from 9 p.m. to midnight.

If you prefer something more classical, the Dayton Philharmonic will perform “Bartók’s Musical Tapestry,” inspired by the work of Hungarian pianist and composer Béla Bartók at the Schuster Center, 1 W. Second St.

Oregon Arts District venues will a variety of musical opportunities. Blind Bob’s, 430 E. Fifth St., will have live music beginning at 9:30 p.m., featuring New Vega, Grenades!? and other artists. Puzzle of Light will play beginning at 9 p.m. at Jay’s Seafood, 225 E. Sixth St.  Omega Music, 318 E. Fifth St., will feature Moon High and M. Ross Perkins beginning at 6 p.m. At Trolley Stop, 530 E. Fifth St., Sarah Beck and Jessica Campbell will take the stage at 9:30 p.m.

Entertainment from shows to skating

Local musicians Moon High and M. Ross Perkins will take the stage at Omega Music in the Oregon Arts Distrct starting at 6 p.m. on First Friday.

If you’d like to explore downtown on your bicycle, check out Don Crawford Plaza in front of Fifth Third Field, 220 N. Patterson Blvd., where the monthly Courteous Mass Ride will meet at 5:15 p.m. for a ride through the city. For athletic enthusiasts, the climbing gym Urban Krag, 125 Clay St., will be open until 11 p.m. The RiverScape MetroParks Ice Rink, , 111 E. Monument Ave, will host a Wild West Skate from 7 to 10 p.m., featuring a DJ playing a variety of country and western music. Admission is $5, which includes skate rental.

First Friday is a way to discover some of the theater and performance options downtown. The Human Race Theatre Company presents the world premiere of “Tenderly,” a musical about the life of renowned singer and actress Rosemary Clooney, at the Victoria Theatre, 138 N. Main St. If you’re in the mood for a laugh, John Evens will perform at Wiley’s Comedy Niteclub, 101 Pine St., at 9 p.m.; tickets are $12. The Neon, 130 E. Fifth St., shows a variety of new releases and independent movies. Call 222-SHOW (7469) for films and show times.

Shop the winter sales

Getting a fashion fix is easy to do downtown. Amore!, 16 Brown St., will premiere new spring items and offer 50 percent off select winter fashions. Munch on Japanese snacks at the sushi and sake shopping party Clash Consignments, 113 E. Third St., with sushi provided by Fusian. The party will feature local DJ The Snark and a storewide sale on winter items until 10 p.m. Basho Apparel, 521 E. Fifth St., will have a featured print design on baby clothes by local artist Janell Barker of Press.

The Oregon Arts District features several stores that offer unique gifts, art and furniture. Shop for vintage and one-of-a-kind furniture, housewares, art and more at Jimmy Modern, 605 E. Fifth St. Peace on Fifth, 519 E. Fifth St., a slave-free and eco-friendly gift shop, will be serving free fair-trade chocolate. The Record Gallery, 16 Brown St., will broadcast Rev. Cool’s “Around the Fringe” show on 91.3 WYSO-FM for visitors shopping their vast record selection. ReCreate, 438 E. Fifth St., has new and used instruments, other music-related items and original artwork.

In addition, staff from the day spa Beaute Box, located at 116 W. Fifth St., will be on the go on the streets of the Oregon Arts District raffling prizes.

Work up an appetite

In addition to its art gallery space, Gallery 510 Fine Art also will showcase a collection of jewelry, scarves, ceramics and other art created by local artists for sale.

After wandering the streets of downtown, check out the dinner and drink specials offered on First Friday. Boulevard Haus, 328 E. Fifth St., features $1 off tap beer for those who mention First Friday. At Deaf Monty’s Wine, 22 Brown St., it’s only $5 for a 6-ounce glass of red or white wine. Dublin Pub, 300 Wayne Ave., has no cover and 20 percent off all food during First Friday. Lucky’s Taproom and Eatery, 520 E. Fifth St., will feature dinner specials, along with the special tapping of a firkin of New Holland Poet, an oatmeal stout. Olive, an urban dive, 416 E. Third St., will have several dinner specials until 11 p.m., in addition to broadcasting Rev. Cool’s “Around the Fringe” show on 91.3 WYSO-FM. Oregon Express, 336 E. Fifth St., has half-price pizza from 4 to 8 p.m. and live music at 9:30 p.m.

First Friday is presented by the Downtown Dayton Partnership with support from the Oregon District Business Association and WYSO-FM 91.3. The Downtown Dayton Partnership’s website has a complete list of downtown’s arts and cultural amenities, as well as a dining guide, parking map and much more.

On Becoming a Bad Ass

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Kristen Wicker and Amelia Robinson spar at Drake's Downtown Gym to prepare for Dayton Knockout.

Kristen Wicker and Amelia Robinson spar at Drake's Downtown Gym to prepare for Dayton Knockout. PHOTO COURTESY OF TOM GREENE.

“Girl, the jig is up,” my best friend is telling me on the phone as I’m freaking out about my recent discovery that I am not, after all, a born fighter. “Your shit is totally exposed.”

She’s right, and I know it. I rappelled off a 27-story office tower. In the bazaars of Cairo, Egypt, I’ve nonchalantly weaved through cow carcasses hanging from their hooves and dripping blood. I’ve chased a group of punk kids in my former inner city hood. I have a bunch of big tattoos and own three genuine leather jackets. I’ve hiked through the Grand Canyon on trails forged by mountain goats and swam with sharks and barracuda in the Red Sea. (OK, I admit that last one was by accident, but it still didn’t faze me.) I will walk right up to a sketchy-looking somebody hanging out downtown and tell him to move it right along.

But my bad ass credentials have never before been tested as they have in the past three months as I’ve trained to box some of my best friends as part of Dayton Knockout.

I signed up for this charity boxing event ― which will be held this Saturday, Feb. 25, at Memorial Hall ― to be part of something super cool, help a good cause, get in shape and maybe lose a few pounds. I’d been boxing at Drake’s Downtown Gym for nearly two years, and I’ve yet to encounter a workout that makes me feel like more of a bad ass than giving a punching bag a hefty one-two.

Immediately, it was on. My girlfriend and I started trash talking. And texting. And posting.

I hope your bucket list is wheelchair accessible.

They’re gonna find your torso in a corn maze.

I hope you enjoyed your smoothie because after I knock all your teeth out, you’ll only be able to digest soft foods.

I’m gonna snack on your kidney on a stick.

I hope you liked wearing head gear because soon it will be a permanent fashion accessory for you.

I hear they make software now that can help you re-learn how to walk.

Halfway through our training, I missed nearly two weeks of practice after some complications from what was supposed to be minor surgery. She sent me flowers ― a beautiful bouquet of roses, actually ― with a card reading, “Sickness will not protect you.”

Then we sparred for the first time. And she rattled my teeth as if they were shells in a wind chime.

Which took the muscle right out of my trash talking. Truth is, I’m not a bad ass. I’m just really good at pretending.

I even had my friend fooled.

“What do you mean, you’ve never fought before? I thought you said you were some kind of crazy, black-haired punk rocker in high school!”

“Those Barbies wouldn’t fight me,” I explained. “Their Aqua Net puff bangs would have gotten flattened.”

“Didn’t you fight your sister?” She was incredulous at this point.

“My sister is eight years younger than me. The worst thing I ever did was put peas in her peanut butter and jelly sandwich.”

***

Monster Truck Rally at Hara Arena.

Monster Truck Rally at Hara Arena. Bad ass grade: D

I did try to up my bad ass quotient after my first Saturday-practice skull crushing. I figured it would help me find my inner fighter.

A friend and I went to a monster truck rally at Hara Arena. I imagined it just like in the commercials: big ass trucks crushing cars and motor bikes daredeviling over piles of dirt. Whoopee! We picked out the perfect outfits, complete with cowboy boots and denim and plaid flannel and bandanas. I insisted we arrive early to have a cocktail at the Hara Pub and spotted an extra five bucks for VIP tickets so we could gain access to a pre-party and obtain a complimentary skull and crossbones flag.

Commercials can be misleading.

“We don’t open the bar for family events,” the woman scanning our tickets tartly replied at my dismay that the pub was closed. The VIP tickets must have stood for Very Ignorant Person, because everyone seemed to be enjoying the “perks” of said tickets. The skull and crossbones flags appeared to have come from one of those little plastic cups in a pizza parlor vending machine. The cars were already crushed, and there wasn’t a speck of dirt (unless you count the grime coating all that is Hara Arena). Some of the drivers couldn’t even get their trucks to spin in the donut competition. Some dude in an ostrich costume as raggedy as an old shag carpet came out and did a 10-minute skit that nearly made us peel our eyeballs out of our skulls.

The best part of the night was when a kid in the row behind us recognized Hell’s Bells two gongs into the song. “Your mother would be so proud,” sighed the woman with him.

We left at intermission. I think my bad-assery actually dropped in value that night.

Rock Star Wrestling

Rock Star Wrestling in Dayton. Bad ass grade: A

Then I took the grand opening of Rock Star Wrestling on East Third Street for a spin. Now, this was some bad ass I could get behind ― men in singlets and Captain America-esque costumes jumping on the ropes around the ring and tossing each other like salad. Hell, YES, that’s what I’m talking about! Complete with kids heckling the wrestlers from the front row!

I definitely ingested a nice womp of bad ass that night. Problem was, I drowned it in beer and Long Island Iced Teas and was left with only blurry pictures on my phone.

***

I have been humiliated by the realization I’m lacking in the bona fide bad ass department before.

The first time I went to a Gem City Roller Girls bout, I was convinced it should be me out there zipping around on skates, hunched into the breeze created by my own speed, elbowing and snarling and falling-but-getting-right-back-up. Oh, the girl power! The striped socks and black skirts and skulls! The clever yet sinister names!

Then I went to Skateworld of Vandalia with my rock star girlfriend. She’s trotted the globe playing searing guitar with bands and always has been much cooler than I am. It was the same in the skating rink.

Gem City Roller Girls. Bad ass grade: A+

Gem City Roller Girls. Bad ass grade: A+

My feet had not known a pair of roller skates since Members Only jackets were in style, you did the Hokey Pokey and Space Invaders was the game to beat. I decided I should warm up with a spin in the kids’ practice area.

At first, I figured the floor was warped in weird ways that were preventing me from getting my Pac Man Fever back. Then, I decided I was just too tired and sloppy from an exhausting week. Next, I concluded that I was just being sensible, as the place was jam-packed with little kids’ birthday parties. If a big girl like me fell on one of these 3-year-olds, that youngster could be smushed like a cupcake. Why risk it?

Finally, my friend ― skating backward and doing spins ― convinced me to make my way to the big kids rink. By then, I was too paranoid to let go of the side railing. As I clunked and slithered my way around the ring as if I were walking on an oil spill, I felt a poke in the small of my back.

I turned to find a little girl, probably five years old, her hair in pig tails. “Excuse me, miss,” she asked in her pip-squeak voice. “Can you move? You’re blocking my way.”

“No,” I said, the word falling from my mouth like a brick. I grabbed her hand and ― still desperately clutching the railing ― swung her around me.

I then proceeded to get the hell out of the rink and take off those damned skates as fast as I could. On our way out, my friend handed me a brochure about skating lessons. I shoved it in the bottom of my purse.

***

Twisted Wicker in the blue corner psyching herself up to bust some jaw.

Twisted Wicker in the blue corner psyching herself up to bust some jaw. PHOTO COURTESY OF TOM GREENE.

I haven’t given up on becoming a boxer as I did with becoming a Gem City Roller Derby Girl. I have been practicing my jab to the point where my knuckles are bruised. I’ve watched Rocky I, II and III, along with YouTube videos of real-life boxers, to observe in-the-ring moves. I’ve been listening incessantly to “We Are the Champions,” “Eye of the Tiger” and the song I chose to play as I make my way to the stage at Memorial Hall, “Mama Said Knock You Out.”

And I’ve been spending a lot of time envisioning myself as a fighter. Faking it. Which I know I can do. After all, these days, when I tell people I’m clinically shy (I am! Like turning a bowling ball in your stomach to talk to a stranger kind of shy!), they don’t believe me. They are totally faked out.

I realize now that becoming a bad ass is like aging: It’s less about the number of times you’ve toasted your birthday or the number of years you’ve been giddy about the arrival of spring. It’s just a a thought you create and control in the mechanics of your brain.

At least, that’s what I’m telling myself as I walk into that ring. I may be wearing a costume of sorts, but it’s genuine boxing garb, the same the pros wear. And I will be feeling like a genuine boxer ― and bad ass.

JAB!

Dayton Knockout benefits AIDS Resource Center Ohio and Dayton History. The event takes place at 8 p.m. this Saturday, Feb. 25, at Memorial Hall. Doors open at 7 p.m. Buy advance tickets online or at Drake’s Downtown Gym, Ghostlight Coffee, Lucky’s Taproom & Eatery, Brixx Ice Co., Square One Salon, and the Dublin Pub. Food and drinks will be available, and an after party featuring live music by Funky G and the Groove Machine will be held in the Memorial Hall basement after the fights.

Click here to read J.T. Ryder’s article on the history of boxing in Dayton. Click here to listen to a radio story Amelia Robinson and I produced about the fight.

Pop-Up Project Seeking Business Owners to Open Downtown

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Guests at Beaute Box, one of the businesses that opened downtown as part of the first phase of the Pop-Up Project.

Guests at Beaute Box, one of the businesses that opened downtown as part of the first phase of the Pop-Up Project.

Activated Spaces, an initiative to fill downtown storefronts, is accepting applications for temporary retail and service businesses to open downtown as part of the second phase of its Pop-up Project. The project matches business owners and entrepreneurs who want to try out a business concept with downtown property owners who have first-floor storefront space available for occupancy.

Interested retailers should fill out an application, which can be downloaded at www.activatedspaces.org, and email it to Sherri Wierzba at wierzba@downtowndayton.org. The application deadline is 5 p.m. on Friday, March 9. Tenants will be selected March 30, and retailers must be ready to open by May 1.

Lease lengths will range from three to six months. The spaces will have varying lease rates, but will be leased below market value. Activated Spaces volunteers will connect retailers with commercial property owners, help make the space move-in ready, and promote the business during such events as First Friday and Urban Nights. Selected businesses will negotiate leasing terms directly with the selected property owner, but flexibility for the tenant is a priority.

Activated Spaces volunteers hope to build on the success of the Pop-Up Project’s pilot phase, when three businesses filled 2,300 square feet of space. Two of those businesses ― Beaute Box, 116 W. Fifth St., and Peace on Fifth, 519 E. Fifth St. ― are looking to convert their temporary leases into traditional long-term ones. Another business, Basho Screen Printing and Apparel, opened a second area location at 521-523 E. Fifth St. after being drawn to the space when it was occupied by Comfort & Joy, which offered holiday gifts, during the Pop-Up Project’s pilot.

Commercial property owners interested in offering space to interested retailers should contact Sherri Wierzba or Erin Gillespie at 937-224-1518. Participating property owners will be listed on the Activated Spaces website. Once a match is made, a limited amount of money is available to be distributed in $250 increments at the discretion of the Activated Spaces team for such purposes as offsetting utility costs, making cosmetic improvements to the space or other necessities for making the space operational.

The grand opening celebration of Pop-Up Shop Peace on Fifth.

The grand opening celebration of Pop-Up Shop Peace on Fifth.

Activated Spaces, a volunteer-led initiative spearheaded by young professional organizations Generation Dayton and updayton, has three main goals:

• reactivate and beautify vacant storefronts with creative displays

• encourage entrepreneurs, artists and community groups to occupy space for short- and long- term uses

• showcase downtown properties and increase interest and investment in available space

Activated Spaces is part of the Greater Downtown Dayton Plan, a strategic blueprint for the future of downtown. Those interested in volunteering with Activated Spaces should e-mail getinvolved@updayton.com.

For more information, contact Sherri Wierzba or Erin Gillespie at 937-224-1518.