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Cincinnati Native Nominated for an Independent Music Award

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The supremely talented up-and-coming singer-songwriter Olivia Frances will look to add another award to her already impressive collection of accolades. Musical from a young age, Frances started playing piano at age six and composed her first song on guitar at age 12. Her dedication from such young age has paid off by having written over 300 songs. Frances credits Fleetwood Mac, Bon Iver and Kacey Musgraves as her musical inspirations.

This month, Music Resource Group announced the Nominees for The 18th Annual Independent Music Awards (IMAs). Nominations in 100+ Music, Video and Design categories were awarded to an eclectic roster of established and emerging talent from around the globe.

Frances is nominated in the Story Song Category for “The Bee & the Rose” a sweeping, environmentally-driven song off Orchid (2019), her latest bouquet of songs and stories. The Worcester Telegram & Gazette describes the album as “irrepressibly sweet — and eminently likable.” Written with the talented Nashville-based songwriter Michael Astrachan and produced by the distinguished Pat Lassiter, “The Bee & the Rose” reminds listeners of the natural beauty of the world and uses it on stage as a catalyst to discuss the current bee crisis.

Frances is no stranger to the Independent Music Awards. In 2018, she won the VOX Pop Love Song Category and the awards ceremony took place at Lincoln Center. Frances is a multi-award-winning artist, placing 1st in the Singer-Songwriter Category at the 2018 New England Songwriting Competition and winning Best Pop Song of the Year at the 2017 Ohio Music Awards.

Musical legends Lucinda Williams, Steven Van Zandt, Ellis Paul and Jonatha Brooke are nominated alongside Frances. The winning projects will be selected by influential judging panels including: Tom Waits & Kathleen Brennan, Robert Smith, Ziggy Marley, KT Tunstall, and many more indie creatives, top recording artists and industry influencers.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, The 18th annual Independent Music Awards ceremony originally scheduled for June in New York City will proceed as an online showcase for this year’s top-ranked artists and music projects. Now in its 18th year, The Independent Music Awards honors artistry and daring rather than streams and social reach, and celebrates everything that makes indie music authentic and unique.

March 7 First Friday to Feature Art Exhibits, Live Music, Derby Day Preview Party, Pete Seeger Tribute, Elvis, Bicycle “Glow Ride” & More

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First FridayDowntown’s next free First Friday event will be held from 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, March 7.

Several businesses will offer specials and discounts. Local musicians will pay tribute to the late Pete Seeger, businesses will collaborate to present a Kentucky Derby preview fashion show, and local art exhibits can be found in many galleries and shops.

Details are below about other events taking place at participating locations during the March 7 First Friday.

Art

• CADC, 45 S. St. Clair St.: Featuring artist Ben Frederick with live music by the Chris Comer Trio. Call 313-9883.

• Clash Consignment, 521 E. Fifth St.: Featuring artwork by artists-of-the-month Nicole Eccles, Chyanne Moore and Talia Shade. All winter clothing will be half off the already reduced prices. Call 241-9434.

• Dayton Art Institute, 456 Belmonte Park North: Showing several exhibits, including Isabella Kirkland: Stilled Life. Also hosting Elvis: Aloha from Hawaii party as part of the Prime Time Party Series from 7-11 p.m. Must purchase advance tickets. Call 223-4278 for party or art exhibit ticket prices.

• Dayton Visual Arts Center 118 N. Jefferson St.: (Open until 8 p.m.) Featuring The Cline Show, an annual university and college art and design student scholarship exhibit. Call 224-3822.

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

• K12 Gallery/TEJAS , 341 S. Jefferson St.: (Open until 8 p.m.) Opening the art exhibit Vanquish, featuring artwork from all ages about serious subjects like mental disorders and domestic violence. Also featuring student art from St. Luke School. Call 461-5149.

Music

• Blind Bob’s, 430 E. Fifth St.: Featuring happy hour from 4 to 8 p.m. Music by Mouth of the Architect, Grand Mammoth, Zuel, Blast Flag. Call 938-6405.

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

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

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

• Oregon Express, 336 E. Fifth St.: Featuring half-price pizza from 4 to 8 p.m. and live music by the Sean Carney Band at 9:30 p.m. Call 223-9205.

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

• Yellow Cab Building, 700 E. Fourth St.: Hosting Sailing Down My Golden River: A Tribute to Pete Seeger, featuring several local musicians. Show begins at 8 p.m. with a suggested donation of $10. All proceeds will go to WhyHunger, a charity the late Seeger supported. Call 419-953-4548.

 Food and Drink

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

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

• Lucky’s Taproom and Eatery, 520 E. Fifth St.: Lucky’s third anniversary week celebration continues with New Holland’s Charkoota Rye beer tapped earlier that day. Call 222-6800.

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

• Salar, 400 E. Fifth St.: DJ in the lounge and drink specials starting at 10 p.m. Call 203-3999.

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

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

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

Entertainment

• The Black Box Improv Theater, 518 E. Third St.: Black Box brings Chicago-style improvisational comedy to Dayton with shows at 8 p.m. ($7) and 9:30 p.m. ($5). $10 for both shows. Call 369-0747.

• Dayton Theatre Guild, 430 Wayne Ave.: Presenting a performance of Expecting Isabel at 8 p.m. Call 278-5993.

• Don Crawford Plaza in front of Fifth Third Field, 220 N. Patterson Blvd.: The monthly Courteous Mass Ride will depart at 5:30 p.m. This month’s route will go through the Oregon District, Woodland Cemetery and the University of Dayton area, and will be a “glow ride,” where riders are encouraged to deck out their bikes with lights, glow bracelets and more. All tours are free and welcome any skill level.

• Grass Roots Enrichment and Wellness Center, 400 E. Fifth St., Suite C: (Open until 8 p.m.) Featuring artwork from members of Spire, an art program for adults with disabilities. Activities for families and light refreshments will be provided. Call 723-6747.

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

• Wiley’s Comedy Niteclub, 101 Pine St.: Featuring comedian Etta May. Shows begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 per person. Call 224-5653.

Shopping

• American Pi, 41 S. St. Clair St.: Karen Dogget from Pinot’s Palette will giving away prizes and inviting anyone who stops by to participate in a collaborative painting. Trish Clark-Baker will be selling Jewelry Candles and an independent consultant will have In A Pikle bags for sale. Beverages and snacks also will be available. Call 938-7890.

• Beaute Box, 116 W. Fifth St.: Featuring a monthly VIP event. VIPs will receive complimentary massages and spa treatments with wine and cheese service. Email beautebox@yahoo.com or call 903-3165.

• Brim, 464 E. Fifth St.: In collaboration with Sew Dayton and Clash Consignment, Brim will host the Derby Day Preview Party and fashion show with models walking at 6 and 8 p.m. Call 222-4287.

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

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

• Sew Dayton, 261 Wayne Ave.: Offering 20 percent off T-shirts and coffee cups. Local artist Julie Jamison will be selling re-imagined vintage jewelry pieces. Call 234-7398.

• Sherwood Florist, 444 E. Third St.: (Open until 9 p.m.) Offering 10 percent off all in-store items. Call 298-3655.

• Spice Paradise, 16 Brown St.: Offering samples of various foods to anyone who stops by the store. Call 224-3227.

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. Download the Find It Downtown mobile search tool for smartphones at http://mobile.downtowndayton.org.

 

Ring in the New Year with First Friday Fun

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

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

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

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

 

ArtDAI

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

MusicMusic

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Food and Drinksteak-dinner-glass-wine-13806878

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

Riverscape Ice RinkEntertainment

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

Shoppingshopping-bags

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

 

Manet + Evil Dead + Jurassic Park 3D at Rave Cinemas Dayton South

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Hello Dayton!   There are plenty of options for everyone to have the perfect movie weekend this week.  Lots of things happening at your local Rave Cinemas!

Opening This Week

EXHIBITION: MANET:PORTRAYING LIFE – 04/11/13 @ 730pm!

The eagerly awaited exhibition at the Royal Academy of Arts, London, Manet: Portraying Life will be captured for cinema screens worldwide. This is the first ever major exhibition in the UK devoted to the portraiture of Édouard Manet, spanning his entire career. The exhibition will bring together great works from across Europe, Asia and the USA. Cinemagoers will see exclusive behind-the-scenes moments of the Royal Academy’s exhibition preparation — moments usually hidden from view — and experience a detailed, superbly crafted biography of Manet and 19th century Paris. Host Tim Marlow along with expert guests examines the work of one of the all-time great artists.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x2rOP-KgAS4′]

EVIL DEAD – OPENS 04/04/13 @ 10pm!

In the much anticipated remake of the 1981 cult-hit horror film, five twenty-something friends become holed up in a remote cabin. When they discover a Book of the Dead, they unwittingly summon up dormant demons living in the nearby woods, which possess the youngsters in succession until only one is left intact to fight for survival.

 

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

 

 

JURASSIC PARK 3D – OPENS 04/04/13 @ 10pm!

Universal Pictures will release Steven Spielberg’s groundbreaking masterpiece “Jurassic Park” in 3D on April 5, 2013. With his remastering of the epic into a state-of-the-art 3D format, Spielberg introduces the three-time Academy Award-winning blockbuster to a new generation of moviegoers and allows longtime fans to experience the world he envisioned in a way that was unimaginable during the film’s original release.

 

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2jH9iAHSKds’]

 

RAVE CINEMA CLASSICS – $3 + FREE popcorn & drink! @ Dayton South

04/08/13 @ 1pm brings us…

HARVEY, 1950, 105min

Elwood P. Dowd is a mild-mannered, pleasant man, who just happens (he says) to have an invisible friend resembling a 6-foot rabbit.   James Stewart, Josephine Hull, Peggy Dow

 

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VvfXvW2wsuQ’]

 

For showtimes…CLICK HERE!

 

Downtown Dayton’s First Friday Features Derby & Dresses, Tiki Show, Arts Potluck & Demos, Flood Walk

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SAMSUNG CSCBrim is hosting a fashion show featuring Kentucky Derby hats and one-of-a-kind dresses by Tracy McElfresh of Sew Dayton. The models will walk at 6 and 8 p.m. and coffee will be provided by Ghostlight Coffee. Clash Consignments is hosting a Tiki Show that will feature Liz Dearth of Artifact Pottery as artist of the month, along with work by Greg Dearth, Scott Kustowski, Skull 13 and others. Eric Heilman and Rob Hale will provide rockabilly, surf, psychobilly and punk music throughout the evening.

Several art galleries and other venues will host special events this month. Blue Sky Gallery will host a closing reception for “Your Turn,” a collaborative exhibit, by Francis Schanberger and his wife, Bridgette Bogle, who have organized an arts potluck. Instead of bringing food, bring an example of something that inspires you — such as music, video, magazine clippings or books — to share. Dayton Visual Arts Center is opening new exhibit, “The Cline Show.” In memory of Barbara C. Cline and her dedication to student artists, this exhibit features works in all media produced by local students from Wright State University, the University of Dayton, Central State University and Sinclair Community College. Grass Roots Enrichment and Wellness Center will feature paintings by artist of the month Annica Damico. Hands-on activities for children and a free introduction to Reiki and chair massage also will be offered. Bring your favorite wine bottle to “Functional Art “at the CADC. Christy Jennewein will demo wine bottle painting.  The Yellow Cab Building is hosting Dollar Holler, a free event to sell and buy — for only $1 —handmade, vintage, and arts and crafts supplies. Items at past events include vintage home décor and fabric, beads, and original art and prints. Donations will be accepted to support the 2013 Dayton Sideshow arts event.

Urban Nights(2)This First Friday also offers outdoor events. The Courteous Mass Ride will host its monthly cycling expedition throughout the city.  Bikers meet at 5:30 p.m. in front of Fifth Third Field. The Great Dayton Flood Walk starts at 7p.m. and is $10 per person. The tour allows guests to view vintage photos of the great flood, visit buildings that made it through the flood, see high-water marks from 1913 and much more. Call 274-4749 or email grantsguru501c3@yahoo.com for required reservation and meeting location.

First Friday includes sales and special event at retail shops, discounts at restaurants, special events, live music, and more. A complete list of what downtown businesses have on tap for First Friday is available on the DDP website.  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. Download the Find It Downtown mobile search tool for smartphones at http://mobile.downtowndayton.org.

 

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.

Dion Lack: From The DYT To Hollywood

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Dion Lack in the famous Doritos commercial.

You all saw it. The hilarious Dion Lack Doritos Commercial (see below) that aired during the 2010 Super Bowl. The one where the cute kid pimp slaps a grown man for dating his Mom and eating his Doritos. Here’s where things get interesting. The adult male in the commercial is from Dayton. And his name is Dion Lack.

Dion has been in the entertainment business as an actor/comedian for eleven years. And as you can guess, his career got a nice boost from the Doritos ad. Lack took some time out of his busy schedule to talk about what he’s been working on, and life as a Dayton transplant living in La La (Los Angeles)

Greg Simms Jr.: The Doritos commercial. That made a lot of noise when it aired. How did that come about?

Dion Lack: “Yeah, the commercial was surprisingly a HUGE success. It came about from a buddy of mine that I worked with as an extra on the set of Fast Furious 4. He approached me a couple months prior with the idea and we collaborated and made it come to life. A lot of people thought I came up with the commercial because I have my own production company. (LackToast Entertainment) but I was just the actor in it.”

 

G.S.: What was the response to the commercial (from your perspective)? How did the commercial affect your career?

D.L.: “My honest opinion, I didn’t think it was that funny but I kept getting rave reviews from my surroundings that made me fall in love with it. I praise God for the commercials buzz because it had definitely got me a lot of acting and writing jobs that boasted my drive to be more successful.”

G.S.: You are from the Dayton area. when did you move to California? And why?

D.L.: “Yes I’m a proud Dayton native! I was born and raised in Dayton View and moved to Los Angeles in 2001. I came out here to act and was forced to get into the stand-up comedy world. Which I do not regret. Comedy has been my best move yet as far as networking and growing.”

G.S.: Obviously, you are a comedian. When did you know you wanted to pursue this career? And why?

D.L.: “Like I said on the previous answer, I’ve done comedy in high school but never thought I would pursue it as a career. When my family and folks got word I was in L.A., people started hooking me up with the right people that were already established for encouragement and motivation. I slid in just fine and performed and traveled with some of the greats. ”

G.S.: How often do you perform stand-up comedy?

D.L.: “That’s kind of a hard question seeing that I do open mics all the time to try out new jokes. Just like exercising, comedy is a muscle you need to workout. But I average about four scheduled comedy performances a week.”

G.S.: Have you been to the Dayton area lately?

D.L.: “No I haven’t been in back home since April of 2011. Which was a Redemption Comedy show at the RTA Center. It was a lot of fun with my Good Comedian Comrades Mark Gregory, Nate Washington, Will Speed, and produced by Terrance Dorsey. ”

G.S.: If you had to talk to any Dayton area up and coming entertainers, what you tell them?

D.L.: “Dayton is a small market and you can easily be unmotivated because there’s not a lot of encouraging people inspiring your dream. Please stay encouraged!!! Surprise yourself and allow you to be your only competition. Don’t follow and compare someone else’s success with the speed of yours because it will always frustrate you. Everything you do in life should make your life better. ”

G.S.: Do you have anything that you are working on currently?

D.L.: “I am always working on something. I have a Comedy CD that I’m working on which is full of pranks, sketches and most importantly comedy! It will be complete in the Fall of 2012.
I’m working on a fantasy trilogy that was inspired by my oldest daughter a few years ago. Its an analogy novel that I’ve done intense research on and been working on the 3 simultaneously for almost a year now. The working title is Boats which should be complete early Winter.
Like I said on my previous answer, I’ve developed a production company (www.LackToastEnt.com) with my Best Friend Twilla Tanyi. We provide full service to help anyone bring out that vision they have on paper. We’ve done skits, short films, Reality shows, sketches, commercials etc. Check out our new YouTube page (www.Youtube.com/TheLackToastEnt.com)Also, you can follow us on Twitter : @LackToastEnt, and
“Like” us on Facebook : LackToast Entertainment”

G.S.: What is your ultimate goal?

D.L.: “My ultimate goal is to live out all my dreams with no regrets. If I say I’m going to do it, it will be done! I want to be an example of “It Can Be Done!” I don’t cut corners and try to inspire the people around me to stay encouraged. And I will leave you with this: don’t allow money to be your motivation. God Over Money!”

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Celebrate the start of September with First Friday

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Whether you are in the mood to explore downtown or you just want to kick back and listen to some live music, the Sept. 2 First Friday has all the entertainment you need from 5 to 10 p.m.

All summer the local bands have been rocking out at the RiverScape MetroPark, 111 E. Monument Ave. This Friday, Human Cannonball will perform at the free First Friday @ 5 concert from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Beer will be sold from 5 to 7 p.m. and the concession will be open. Free bike parking provided.

First Friday also is a chance for visitors to win a $1,000 travel gift certificate from AAA Miami Valley by completing a First Friday Passport. Each month, AAA will award two prizes of one-year classic AAA memberships, with free renewals for existing members. Everyone who enters for the monthly prize now through Dec. 2 also will be entered into a drawing for a grand prize of a $1,000 travel gift certificate.

Visitors can pick up a First Friday passport at participating locations (click here for a list). The passport must be stamped by at least four locations, and once visitors have all four stamps, they fill out their contact information and drop their passports in any of the First Friday Passport boxes that will be at all participating locations.

Starting at 8 p.m., numerous First Friday locations will blast Rev. Cool’s Around the Fringe radio show, which features lively dance music from around the world and your own backyard and airs on WYSO-FM 91.3. A variety of roaming performers also will provide entertainment (weather permitting).

See the Sights

For those looking for a unique way to tour downtown, check out Courteous Mass. This community of bike-minded individuals will meet at Don Crawford Plaza in front of Fifth Third Field at 5:15 p.m. for an urban street cycling ride through the city and First Friday action.

Another great way to stretch your legs while seeing the city is with Gem City Circle Walking Tours, which will host two tours highlighting local history. A tour of the Oregon Arts District will meet in the Jay’s Seafood parking lot at 5 p.m., and the Ghosts, Cemeteries and Murders Walk of Downtown Dayton tour will meet at Courthouse Square at 7 p.m. All walks are $10 per person, and advance reservations are required. Contact Leon Bey, tour guide, at 274-4749 or email grantsguru501c3@yahoo.com.

Channel Your Inner Artist

First Friday is a great chance to interact with art. Press, 257 Wayne Ave., will host a kids’ art event in which children ages 4 to 10 are invited to explore their creative side by creating works in a variety of mixed media.  SMAG Dance Collective will perform in front of Boulevard Haus, 328 E. Fifth St., at 7 p.m. with painter Mike Elsass and musician Al Holbrook. Elsass will apply paint to a canvas and four dancers, each representing a different color and mood, will spread the paint with their bodies. The group also will perform its Homeless Series, which features solo and duet performances, throughout the Fifth Street corridor.

Additionally, K12 Gallery for Young People/TEJAS, 510 E. Third St., will host its first “Collaborative First Fridays for Families” sculpture-making event. First Friday visitors are invited to stop by and help create a collaborative sculpture around the theme “Junk It, Funk It.” Work alongside artists Cindi Remm and Michele Devitt to turn recyclables and junk into a community sculpture.

Dayton is filled with a variety of art exhibits.  Open until 8 p.m., Dayton Visual Arts Center, 118 N. Jefferson St., will feature “Coming to a Waterway Near You.” This exhibit by Virginia Burroughs examines the effects of blue-green algae on waterways across the country, and includes demonstrations by Burroughs on applying mixed media to photographs.

In the Orgeon Arts District, Color of Energy, 16 Brown St., will display works of pastel artist Daniel Wise and a preview of the “Sedona Vortex” exhibit by Mike Elsass. Down the street, Gallery 510 Fine Art, 510 E. Fifth St., will feature a variety of gallery artists will demonstrating their techniques, including painting, drawing, beading and Zentangle. The Cannery Art and Design Center, 434 E. Third St, will feature the “crazy quilt” paintings of Carol Stoops and the oil paintings and printmaking of Kathryn Pitstick, along with live jazz and refreshments.

Here’s what’s cookin’
After you’ve visited the galleries, grab a bite to eat or stop to watch the entertainment at numerous restaurants downtown.  Boulevard Haus, 328 E. Fifth St., will offer $1 off tap beer for those who mention First Friday. Deaf Monty’s Wine, 22 Brown St., will feature a discount on rose, $5 for a 6-ounce glass. Lucky’s Taproom & Eatery, will tap a firkin tapping of Left Hand Brewery’s 400 Pound Monkey at 5:30 p.m.

Newly opened Olive, an urban dive, 416 E. Third St., will offer dessert and a beverage for $7 and will feature the art of Melinda A Esmond. De’Lish Cafe, 139 Main St., will feature live music and the “downtowner” specialty cocktail. Blind Bob’s, Dublin Pub, Garden Station, Jay’s Seafood, Omega Music, Oregon Express and Trolley Stop will feature live music.

. . .and there’s more!
District Antiques, 122 Van Buren St., will offer 15 percent off any purchase of new items and 10 percent off consigned items. Newly opened Clash Consignment Co., 113 E. Third St., will host live DJs and a raffle for store gift certificates.

Restaurants, retail shops, bars and clubs, and other establishments throughout downtown will be open during First Friday. For regular updates about this event, follow First Friday on Facebook or text “FirstFridayDayton” to 90210. First Friday is presented by the Downtown Dayton Partnership with support from AAA Miami Valley, 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. Click here for a complete list of events taking place downtown.

Courthouse Square performers add entertainment to lunch hour

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Free pizza is served to the crowd in the square.

Now that the rain has finally stopped, Courthouse Square is the place to be weekdays at noontime.

Starting June 21 and lasting through Sept. 15, The Square is Where … will feature a variety of performers. Entertainment booked to date includes belly dancers, jugglers and a saxophonist.  The festivities will occur around noon on most Tuesdays through Fridays.

Spectators can enjoy the show while grabbing lunch served by food vendors. Additionally, the YMCA will be hosting practice yoga and Zumba classes, perfect for those looking to recharge during their lunch breaks.

The Square is Where … is inspired by Affair on the Square, an event that took place more than a decade ago.

Now the Downtown Dayton Partnership and Montgomery Country are presenting The Square is Where … is a part of the Greater Downtown Dayton Plan to encourage growth and development in the city center.

“We’re trying to show there is a thriving, vibrant downtown during the work day,” says Krystal Luketic, special event coordinator for the Downtown Dayton Partnership.

As details become available, a complete schedule will be posted on www.DowntownDayton.org and www.mcohio.org. Any local performers interesting in entertaining on the square should contact Ashleigh Nunamaker at 937-224-1518, ext. 235 or intern2@downtowndayton.org.

Tom Shadyac’s I AM Starts Today!

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Hello Everyone.
Opening this week is a film that was quietly released back in February.  No one asked me about it.  Then the press started to hit a few weeks ago – radio shows, afternoon talk shows (including Oprah)…and we started getting numerous calls and e-mails.  Tom Shadyac’s I AM is a documentary that we hope will live up to the requests.
In addition to opening I AM, we will hold onto OF GODS AND MEN and JANE EYRE for one more week.
Synopsis for I AM:  “I AM, a probing exploration of our world, what’s wrong with it, and what we can do to make it better, represents Tom Shadyac’s first foray into non-fiction following a career as one of Hollywood’s leading comedy practitioners, with such successful titles as ACE VENTURA, LIAR LIAR, and BRUCE ALMIGHTY to his credit. I AM recounts what happened to the filmmaker after a cycling accident left him incapacitated, possibly for good. Though he ultimately recovered, he emerged a changed man. Disillusioned with life on the A-list, he sold his house, moved to a mobile home community, and decided to start life anew.”  (Shady Acres Entertainment) Visit the OFFICIAL SITE
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Tickets are now available on at THE NEON box office for next week’s special screening of VEER.  “Start your Miami Valley Cycling Summit experience a day early with Bike Film Night at THE NEON on Thursday, May 19 at 7:30 – featuring the Dayton premier of VEER.  This critically acclaimed documentary tells the stories of people who have made a difference in the world of cycling, and how cycling has made a real difference in people’s lives.  Join us for this inspiring film and support one of the Miami Valley’s own cycling advocate organizations: Bike Miami Valley.  All proceeds from your $5 admission will benefit this growing cycling non-profit organization.” (taken from press release) Visit the SITE
The FilmDayton Festival is next weekend – May 20-22.  Their website is up and running with details about each film, each party, numerous special events and links for tickets.  Check out the OFFICIAL SITE.
On May 26 at 7:30, the YMCA will hold a special event at THE NEON.  “THE OTHER SIDE, a documentary by Baxter Stapleton, captures the story of two worlds colliding through mentoring.  Two successful business men living in the comfort of suburbia – surrounded with personal possessions and notoriety –  realized they were unfulfilled and wanted a greater purpose.  This desire to make a difference led them to reach out to the other side.  In doing so, they realized that both sides had lessons to teach. The film implores the audience to remember that in giving you receive.” (taken from press notes)   Tickets for this event are $8 and will be available at our box office starting this weekend.
Almost all details are in place for our screening of a powerful and moving documentary called WE WERE HERE.  That said,  new element was introduced to the event yesterday evening – when a local woman called me with a very interesting proposal…I’ll give you the full update next week.  “WE WERE HERE is the first documentary to take a deep and reflective look back at the arrival and impact of AIDS in San Francisco.  It explores how the City’s inhabitants were affected by, and how they responded to, that calamitous epidemic.  Though a San Francisco-based story, We Were Here extends beyond San Francisco and beyond AIDS itself.  It speaks to our capacity as individuals to rise to the occasion, and to the incredible power of a community coming together with love, compassion, and determination.”  WE WERE HERE will screen on June 16 at 7PM.  Tickets are $8 each and are currently available at THE NEON box office.  This screening is sponsored by The Greater Dayton LGBT Center.
Be sure to take a look at the trailer, and get your tickets early.
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If you’ve been to THE NEON lately, you’ve more than likely seen our note at the front counter about pricing.  Here’s what it states: “Effective June 3, 2011.  At THE NEON, we strive to have the best films, the best customer service and the best prices.  While we don’t intend on changing these goals, we must unfortunately raise our admission prices.  On June 3, all General Admission, Matinee and Senior Citizen tickets will increase by 50 cents.  Our ticket prices have not increased since August of 2008…and our new ticket prices will still be at least $2 less expensive than all the first-run multiplexes in the region.  Thanks for your understanding.”  We hope this won’t deter you from coming to THE NEON…as we have dozens of great films coming our way in the weeks and months ahead.
Thanks so much for your interest in THE NEON.
We hope to see you soon!
Take care,
Jonathan
SHOWTIMES for May 13 – May 19:

JANE EYRE (PG-13) 2 Hrs
Friday, Saturday, Sunday:  12:30, 5:15
Monday – Wednesday:  5:15
Thursday:   5:00
I AM (NR) 1 Hr 17 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday:  1:00, 3:15, 5:15, 7:30, 9:30
Monday – Thursday:  3:15, 5:15, 7:30
OF GODS AND MEN (R) 2 Hrs 2 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 2:50, 8:00
Monday – Wednesday: 2:50, 8:00
Thursday:   2:50
VEER (Miami Valley Cycling Summit event)
Thursday: 7:30
COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative.  Some of these dates will change.
In some cases, titles may disappear.
May 20 IN A BETTER WORLD
May 27   THE GREATEST MOVIE EVER SOLD
May 27  THE BEAVER
June 3  BILL CUNNINGHAM NEW YORK
June 3   WINTER IN WARTIME
June 10 INCENDIES
June 17  DOUBLE HOUR
June 24   MIDNIGHT IN PARIS
July 1  TREE OF LIFE
July 8  BUCK
July 15   PAGE ONE
TBD   POTICHE
TBD  BEGINNERS
TBD MEEK’S CUTOFF

It’s Alive! Downtown Storefronts In Action

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Pictured below is artist Carol Stoops at work on her Activated Space on North Main Street – next to Flying Pizza – one of many original works of art that will “come alive” on Friday May 6th.
Her work, “Celebrating Dayton” is part of the Activated Spaces projects sponsored by the Downtown Dayton Partnership as part of May’s First Friday festivities. Look for more of these lively works all over downtown this Friday. There’s fun in the hunt!
Enjoy Stoop’s contribution at 223 North Main next to Flying Pizza. More of Stoop’s vibrant paintings are available for sale at the Cannery Art and Design Center, 434 East Third Street. Downtown galleries, restaurants and activated spaces will be celebrating First Friday on May 6 from 5-10 pm.