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Masquerage

Masquarage 2023: A Night on Olympus

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Equitas Health has announced the theme for their annual Masquerage fundraiser for 2023. A Night on Olympus will happen on October 14 as a party that celebrates ancient Greek myths.  This massive dance party  will take place at the Dayton Arcade this year and guests are encouraged to dress up as their favorite gods and goddesses. Attendees must be 21 and over, and while masks are not required, they are encouraged. This theme release video will give you some inspiration for costumes:

 

Since 2002 Masquerage has helped raise HIV/AIDS awareness and more than $1.5M, becoming one of Dayton’s premier see-and-be-seen events. The money raised at Masquerage supports the prevention and education efforts of Equitas Health. The prevention team at Equitas Health provides HIV/STI testing and prevention, educational programs, support groups, and more to the Dayton community.

Jackie O  & Cherry Poppins will return to host the party, Gem City Burlesque will also make a return this year with performances that are sure to titillate. Regional Events Manager for Equitas, Jostin Schimmoeler  also shared he has several other cool entertainers lined up, but he can’t reveal them until contracts are signed.

Be sure and bring money for the silent auction which will have restaurant gift cards, gift baskets and experiences available for your bidding pleasure.

There are 2 Ticket options for Masquerage:

General Admission – which gives you access to the event’s main areas, welcome drink at the beginning of the night, a full dance floor and entertainment through the night! $60 in advance.

Red Ribbon Lounge – includes access to both main and VIP areas, welcome drink, a designated VIP Bar with drinks included, a full dance floor and entertainment through the night and  a swag bag at the end of the night! Food for the Red Ribbon Lounge will be provided by Sueno. This year the Red Ribbon Lounge will be on two floors, on the main floor and The Tank.   $125 in advance.

Want to go but funds are low? Volunteers that donate eight hours or more of their time will earn a complimentary General Admission ticket. For information on volunteering, please reach out to [email protected].

 

 

 

Equitas Associate Board Announces Masquerage 2018

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The Dayton Equitas Associate Board released the announcement today that Dayton Party of Parties will not skip a year, as originally planned.  Instead it will return on Friday, Oct 26th at the Steam Plant.

According to Equitas Associate Board member Nick Warrington, “when we met in November to do the recap of Masquerage we all agreed that the excitement from the community was there for the event and the Equitas  Board of Trustees agreed that it should go back to being an annual event.

 

So planning is underway for Masquerage 2018, contact the Associate Board to get involved.

Equitas also has  announced they will move the RED Table Design event, which happens every two years, back to spring, so mark your calendars for April 13, 2019 for that one.

Masquerage Theme Release Party — Ticket Giveaway

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Since 2002, Masquerage has earned the reputation as Dayton’s Party of Parties, attended by hundreds of costumed guests for a an evening of dancing, drinking and decadence to benefit Equitas Health (formerly ARC Ohio).
Decor, costumes and entertainment for this extravaganza center around a theme each year, and that curiosity about the theme spawned an annual theme release party staring back in 2010.  The first Masquerage in 2002 , was dubbed A Celebration of Truth, Beauty, Freedom & Love.  It wasn’t until 2005 that specific themes shaped the masks required ball.

 

Here are to the best of my recollection the themes of Masquerage past:

Masquerage 2006

2015:  Viva Las Vegas
2014:  Dirty Little Secrets
2013: Once Upon A Time
2012: Vixens & Villains
2011:  A Decade of Decadence
2010:  Heavenly Pleasures & Sinful Delights
2009: An Evening of Fantastical Oddities and Astonishing Wonders!
2008:  A Sexy intergalactic Adventure
2007: A Glam Rock Odyessy
2006: An Evening of Divine Pleasure
2005:  Tribal

 

You can be amongst the first to find out the theme for the 2017 event on Wed, July 12th as The Dayton Racquet Club sponsors the reveal party from 6-8pm.  You’ll even get inspiration for costumes from the Runway Show produced Mary Kathryn Burnside of Clash Dayton.  Tickets are $25 and include light appetizers and a complimentary cocktail/beverage.

 

DMM TICKET GIVEAWAY: We’ve got 2 pairs of tickets for the theme release party (a $50 value).  You can enter the drawing for our giveaway by liking and sharing this post and leaving a comment below on why you should win.

Welcome cocktail from 2012 Masquerage

Party guests will also have the opportunity to get a $10 discount on tickets for the 2017 Masquerage, which will be held on Saturday, Oct 21st at the Roundhouse at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds.

Masquerage Tickets:

General Admission tickets — $65 presale/$75 @ door includes specialty welcome cocktail, complimentary appetizers, entry into the main event with night-long dancing and entertainment on the Main stage.

Red Ribbon Lounge tickets — $150 presale/$175 @ door includes all the benefits of the main event ticket PLUS exclusive VIP lounge with open bar, specialty food, VIP SWAG bag, and entertainment throughout the venue.

This year’s event represents one of the largest public opportunities to raise awareness and critical fund for HIV/AIDS medical care and treatment, HIV prevention (which includes PrEP), and a variety of other services like primary care, behavioral health counseling, and dental care – one of the highest unmet needs for those living with HIV.

Full Disclosure:  From 2009-2014 I was the Special Events Director at ARC Ohio and produced Masquerage. 

Get Married at Masquerage 2015

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newelvis20Masquerage, an annual event that raises funds for AIDS Resource Center Ohio (ARC Ohio), is known for its incredible themes that raise the bar each year on décor and patron attire, and this year is no exception.  Masquerage 2015 guests as well as the venue will be decked out Vegas-style to celebrate Sin City in the Gem City. This year, ARC Ohio and its Associate Board are “upping the stakes” and adding a new element to Dayton’s “parties of parties for a cause.”

This year couples attending Masquerage will be able to get married at the event. “Kitschy chapel weddings are one of the staples of the Las Vegas Strip,” said ARC Ohio Masquerage Committee Chair Lauren Williams. “Thanks to the recent Supreme Court decision legalizing gay marriage, we now have the opportunity to add an extra special element to this year’s Masquerage that is open to everyone.” Weddings may be added as a premium ticket package.

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Masquerage attendees who wish to commit to their significant others during the event can purchase one of two ticket options: The Chapel of Love package ($200) includes two general admission tickets to Masquerage plus the ceremony and officiant, cupcakes, wedding photos, and champagne to toast. The High Roller package ($400) includes everything in the Chapel of Love package, with two special features: upgrades to the Red Ribbon Lounge and special guest officiant Dayton Mayor Nan Whaley. “I am proud to celebrate marriage equality,” said Mayor Nan Whaley. “I appreciate the opportunity to marry couples and support ARC Ohio.”

Tickets to this year’s Masquerage, to be held Sat, October 17th at the Roundhouse at the Montgomery County Fairground, are on sale now from ticket ambassadors or online at www.masquerage.org. Many more volunteers are needed to help the nonprofit throw the big bash; volunteer opportunities and online registration are also available at the website.

Since its inception, fundraising event Masquerage has raised more than $1.25 million in unrestricted funds in support of ARC Ohio’s life-saving services.  More than 9,000 Masquerage attendees have enjoyed a unique and entertaining experience while supporting ARC Ohio.

Name of Planned Oregon District Restaurant Announced

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Jack&Natalie

Corner Kitchen Owners: Jack & Natalie Skilliter. Photo by Jim Witmer

MostMetro breaks the news:  Natalie and Jack Skilliter are pleased to announce that their planned restaurant at 613 East Fifth Street in the Oregon District will be called, “Corner Kitchen.”

“While we are still a few months away from opening, plans are proceeding. We are describing ‘Corner Kitchen’ as a ‘finer diner’,” said Jack Skilliter, chef of Corner Kitchen. “We intend to provide our guests with mouthwatering updates on many familiar classics. Corner Kitchen will bring a warm spirit to Dayton, a relaxed mood and affordable, farm-fresh food.”

“Our name represents the essence of who we are and what we do,” explained Natalie Skilliter, owner of Corner Kitchen and vice president of vellaINC public relations. “The restaurant will be located on the corner of Fifth and Wayne in the Oregon District and, inside, the ‘kitchen’ will be open and in the middle of the restaurant; thus the name, ‘Corner Kitchen.’ It’s pretty simple. We will feature delicious food prepared with love and entirely from scratch and our flavors and our service will be exceptional.”

In addition, the Skilliters have been asked to provide a sampling from their planned menu in the Red Ribbon Lounge this year at Masquerage, the AIDS Resource Center Ohio’s signature event.10636118_693805324034045_4529655997660336030_n-1

AIDS Resource Center Ohio (ARC Ohio) is Ohio’s premier nonprofit provider of a comprehensive and coordinated response to HIV/AIDS, from prevention to diagnosis and treatment. With an atmosphere that sizzles, non-stop entertainment that takes your breath away, delicious food, and heart-pumping music to keep your body moving all night long, Masquerage is one event NOT to be missed! Tickets are still available for the October 18 event and can be purchased at www.masquerage.org.

Event Producer Lisa Grigsby shares, “We are thrilled to be able to debut  Corner Kitchen to our Red Ribbon Lounge guests. Being able to offer our VIP’s an exclusive first taste of this new eatery is exactly the kind of thing that makes Masquerage Dayton’s Party of Parties!”

“We are honored to be asked to participate in Masquerage this year,” said Skilliter. “It is the most fun event in Dayton with proceeds going to an important organization, ARC.”

 

ABOUT CORNER KITCHEN

Corner Kitchen is the incarnation of the Skilliters’ personal style, sensibility and, taste. The restaurant will showcase their passion for flavor, their commitment to excellence, and their genuine dedication to community.

Their combined and significant experience in the restaurant industry will help Natalie and Jack integrate all they have learned from the fine dining establishments in New York and Washington DC where they have worked. Local-sourcing of food and beverages is very important to the couple, as is a passion for excellence in all things—from unobtrusive, yet attentive service, to a menu offerings created entirely from scratch, to a well-rounded and interesting wine list, to affordable, fun, and simple cocktails.

 

 

Dayton’s Party of Parties is this Saturday Night!

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9310136657835535223-1The AIDS Resource Center Ohio (ARC Ohio) has been hosting Masquerage since 2002.  Over the years the event has morphed from a fun dance party attended by a couple of hundred guests in masks, to an event so grand Ron Rollins of the Dayton Daily News nicknamed it Dayton’s Party of Parties in 2009. Each year it seems to get bigger with the  last two years attendance hovering around the thousand mark. The theme, which was revealed in August at the theme release party, is Once Upon A Time. Guests are required to have a mask, but if the trend of the last few years holds true, the majority of party attenders will be in costume.  In my opinion, that’s perhaps the best part of the event, watching all the people and seeing how they interpret the theme. Masquerage 2013 Chair Denise Swick has declared “this year the event will be sexier than ever, but more than that, we’ll be raising funds for an organization that saves lives in our community.”

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2012 Welcome Cocktails

After 4 years at the Roundhouse,  Masquerage is moving, but just a few hundred yards away to the Coliseum at the Fairground, located at 1043 S. Main Street, just across from Miami Valley Hospital.  Event decor wizard Chris Newman, a designer and decorative painter by trade, says the move to the Coliseum has given me a whole new palate to create from.  And as I write this, Chris is hard at work, leading a volunteer crew through the creation of what he calls the enchanted forest, which will be the first thing general admission guest see upon arrival. Guests will be greeted with a welcoming cocktail, courtesy of Jagermeister. Nonstop entertainment, dancing, appetizers courtesy of Fusian and Scratch event catering are all included in the $50 general admission tickets.  The $50 also represents the cost for ARC Ohio to administer one quick response HIV Test, made  available for free for anyone in our community to be tested.

For those looking for the VIP experience,  you’ll want to splurge on a Red Ribbon Lounge  ticket for $200.  These guests will have their own entrance this year, along with valet parking by Lexus of Dayton. You’ll experience all that comes with general admission as well as have the opportunity to have a free mask painted on from 5-8pm at The Carousel House on the Fairgrounds or from 8-10pm at the event. Their will be a cocktail fountain, snacks from Salar, open bar,  a fortune teller to tell you about your happily ever after as well as the coveted Swag Bag.

Guests will be entertained by The Rubi Girls, a tradition at Masquerage and the original visionary’s of Masquerage.  Also this year Amanda Punchfuk will open the party with a production number, sure to be over the top.  Zoot Theater Company and the  Dayton’s Annual Tranylvanian Convention, as well as a few surprises as well.  A silent auction will include a Jagermeister machine,  Fred Myers Jewelry, beer tastings, restaurant gift certificates, tickets to the arts and much more.

Tickets for Masquerage can be purchased online, or pick up your tickets at Lexus of Dayton, Ghostlight Coffee, Square One Salons or Clash Consighnment.  If you’d like to support ARC Ohio, but can’t attend, consider purchasing a raffle ticket for the Cinderella Raffle.  Winner will have their choice of 4 months of house cleaning from Eco Maids of Dayton or 4 pairs of shoes from Itegritas.  A second winner be picked to claim the remaining prize.  Tickets are $10 each or 3 for $20 and can be purchased online or at Masquerage.

(And in the spirit of total disclosure- I am the event producer for Masquerage).

Dayton’s Party of Parties Takes On Fairytales

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mx-2013-theme-1 Dayton’s biggest party, ARC Masquerage, is just six weeks away! The signature event of AIDS Resource Center Ohio, held annually on the third Saturday of October, will take place October 19 in the Colesium at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds (1043 S. Main St., Dayton).

Thousands have attended the elaborate masquerade ball, billed as “Dayton’s party of parties,” since its 2002 inception, helping raise $1.1 million for HIV/AIDS treatment and awareness. This year, Masquerage is expected to bring in $160,000 in unrestricted funding for ARC Ohio, with $90,000 in corporate sponsorship alone. The funds raised will assist individuals infected and affected by HIV/AIDS.

Each year, Masquerage carries a theme which inspires the decor and costume choices. This year’s, “Once Upon a Time…,” puts an adult spin on childhood fairy tales.

A costume isn’t required to attend Masquerage, only a mask or disguise; among the elaborate costumes each year, one can also find attendees in t-shirts and jeans, pajamas, tuxedos and evening gowns, and, well, almost nothing at all. But dressing up is a big part of the fun, and this year’s storybook backdrop is a bottomless wishing well of great possibilities.

If you’re having trouble coming up with an idea, you’re either thinking too much, or not thinking enough. The first thing you should do is break your mind out of the Disney box. Fairy tales go much farther and wider than the Disney Classics. They can be a great foundation to build upon here, but by no means should they be a limit to your choices. Here are some suggestions that go above and beyond Cinderella and Snow White.

http://swoz.deviantart.com/art/Greek-Gods-Cosplay-Ohayocon-2012-284460981

Greek gods in action: a little mythological cosplay.

  • Each culture has its own fairy tales. Do some research into those. (Western culture is, for example, quite familiar with Rudyard Kipling’s stories from Colonial India.)

  • Many cultures also have their own mythologies. Think of the leprechaun tales of Irish lore. Remember Iron Man’s Loki? That character is based on Loki, the Norse god of war. Do some looking into the Norse gods, or the fables of West Africa’s Anansi, the spider god. And, of course, the entire Greek mythological universe is fair play here. People looking for a clever group costume could deck themselves out as the Gods of Olympus. (Extra points for a good centaur costume!)

  • American’s tall tales are frontier fairy tales. Johnny Appleseed, Pecos Bill and Sluefoot Sue, John Henry, Casey Jones: these are American fairy tale heroes.

  • Another classic American fairy tale is frequently told around Halloween: The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.

  • Rise to the challenge of being the Gingerbread Man, with a costume made of real candy!

  • Rumpelstiltskin is similar to a leprechaun. He shouldn’t be forgotten.

  • Think of the tales you were told as a child. Santa, Mrs. Claus, the reindeer and the elves. The tooth fairy.

  • Speaking of Christmas, there’s a whole world of characters right there. The Grinch and Cindy Lou Who. Herbie the Elf and Yukon Cornelius. The Abominable Snowman. Heatmiser and Snowmiser. Frosty. Rudolph. The entire cast of The Nutcracker. (How great would it be to see a Sugarplum Fairy and a Rat King?!) And, of course, Ebenezer Scrooge and his spirits. The Midwest loves to shove Christmas in people’s faces before Halloween’s even arrived. Double up your holiday value and get in the Yuletide spirit a little early!

    The Wizard of Oz is just one of many modern fairy tales.

  • Think of the urban legends from your childhood. Trolls under bridges. Bloody Mary. Candyman. The Boogeyman. When you imagined that monster that lived under your bed, what did it look like?

  • Think of our modern fairy tales that have become pop culture standards, like Edward Scissorhands and The Nightmare Before Christmas, The Wizard of Oz, E.T., Shrek, Toy Story, Mary Poppins, The Princess Bride, The Neverending Story, Labyrinth and The Dark Crystal, even Pan’s Labyrinth. If you stretch that just a little further, one might consider films like Ghostbusters, Beetlejuice, and even Pleasantville (extra points for gray-toning yourself into black and white!) as sources, given their fantasy elements.

  • Speaking of Tim Burton, let’s try be a little original. Do we really want a party with fifty Johnny Depp Mad Hatters? Do we really? Think about it.

  • Look past Disney at the animated films from other parts of the world. Japanese anime, for instance, is rife with fantasy elements.

    Robert Englund as Freddy Krueger in A Nightmare on Elm Street, perhaps the ultimate modern fairy tale.

  • The best horror stories are grown from the fairy tale concept of predators masking as safe authority figures who lure heroes into traps. Magical setups, moralistic endings, corruption of innocence, tests of character and strength. This page offers a brief, beautifully drawn presentation of A Nightmare on Elm Street as a dark modern fairy tale “where the enchanted forest is filled with cul de sacs and the gingerbread house looks like a boiler room.” Freddy Kruger haunts children in their dreams, for crying out loud! That’s as fairy tale as it gets.

  • The horror genre has given us many brilliant fairy tale characters, including Frankenstein and Dracula. They’re right at home within this theme. And following the vampire theme, True Blood, Dark Shadows, and the Buffy-verse (The Gentlemen!) fit as well.

  • There are, um, many adult possibilities for Pinocchio. (And remember, the Disney version also includes the wicked fox, the Blue Fairy, and Stromboli.)

  • Look to Shakespeare! A Midsummer Night’s Dream is a wonderful fairy tale everyone knows.

  • Doctor Who cosplayers! Come on down!

  • Think of fantasy-related children’s series from the last few decades. My Little Pony, Mighty Max, Care Bears (bonus points if your group has a Mr. Coldheart!), The Smurfs, Sailor Moon, He-Man and She-Ra… Slutty Rainbow Brite and Strawberry Shortcake costumes are always popular this time of year. Here’s another occasion to wiggle into them!

  • A big-screen adaptation of Stephen Sondheim’s fairy tale musical, Into the Woods, is currently in production starring folks like Meryl Streep, Chris Pine, Johnny Depp, Anna Kendrick, Tracy Ullman, and Emily Blunt in an epic story that weaves together the sagas of Cinderella, Rapunzel, Jack the giant killer, Little Red Riding Hood, and many more. Look to that for inspiration.

  • Think about the video games you’ve played. The Legend of Zelda, Super Mario Bros., the Final Fantasy series.

    Masquerage ’13: The geeks ARE the cool kids.

  • British author Roald Dahl wrote some fun, innovative stories that have been enjoyed for generations, including Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, James and the Giant Peach, and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. 2013 will prove a disappointing Masquerage indeed without an Oompa Loompa sighting.

  • Sci-fi and fantasy geeks unite! The hallowed halls of Hogwarts, the ethereal Kingdom of Narnia, and the shadowy forests of Middle Earth shall be made one at Masquerage. (And it would just be so friggin’ cool to see a really well done team of Dementors…)

  • And finally, if you are thinking of Disney films, don’t forget the supporting characters. The three fairy godmothers from Sleeping Beauty, the mice from Cinderella, the Siamese cats from Lady and the Tramp, the Seven Dwarves, the Magic Mirror.

That’s an awful lot to digest at once, but it’s a great reminder that there are literally thousands of choices under the umbrella of this year’s theme. There’s also no shame in picking a popular, classic fairy tale character — it’s all about adding a personal touch and bringing your individual style into the costume. Putting a new twist on a famous character is a great way to stand out. What would your favorite Disney princess or villain look like in the modern world? As a zombie? In a steampunk setting? As a human/animal hybrid? In a horror setting? Last year’s “Villains and Vixens” Masquerage had no less than a dozen attendees in costume as The Joker (myself included), and each one differed wildly from the next.  Find the character that’s best for you, then make it your own. And, most important of all, have fun doing it!

As an added bonus, ticket buyers will find a 20% discount coupon for Halloween Express, on the back of their tickets.  As one of Masquerage’s newest sponsors, this year round costume shop which  recently opened on St Rt 741, north of the Dayton Mall, across from Applebees, understands the spirit of the event and will be happy to help you pull together your dream costume.

For more Masquerage inspiration follow them on Facebook and on twitter.com/ARC_Masquerage.

Grab Your Mask for Dayton’s Party of Parties “MASQUERAGE”

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As charity fund-raisers go, the AIDS Resource Center Ohio’s Masquerage has earned a reputation as being an over the top, all out bash.  The masked ball was dubbed  Dayton’s Party of Parties by  Ron Rollins of the Dayton Dayton Daily News several years ago and  this themed event has continued to grow.  Started in 2002 by Square One Salon owners Brent Johnson, Doug Henderson and Josh Stucky at Therapy Cafe, the party has grown and moved across town, to such unusual venues like The Merc, The Foundry and it’s latest home- the Roundhouse at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds.

Designer Chris Newman

Hundreds of volunteers will spend the week transforming the two story white barn into a fantasy set, under the direction of designer Chris Newman, owner of Cheeky Monkey, an interior design and faux painting company.  Newman volunteered in 2009 to help with one room at the Circus themed event that year, as then stepped up the next year as the creative visionary behind the Heavenly Pleasures and Sinful Delights 2010 Masquerage.   In 2011 the ARC Ohio party celebrated a Decade of Decadence, bringing back some of  the scenery and entertainment of the past 10 years.

Masquerage 2012…Where Evil Can Be Tempting will pay homage to Vixens and Villains.  This theme was chosen to encompass a wide range of costume possibilities- from Gangsters and Molls of the 2o’s and 30’s, to B Movie Vixens, and without a doubt there will be some Disney villains like Cruella De Vil, Ursulas and  Maleficent.  While costumes aren’t required, over the years more and more of the crowd has gotten into the spirit, and  last year about 70% of the crowd were decked out. But the one thing that is required of all party guests is a mask, and whether you choose an elaborate professionally created head, a mardi gras mask or have one painted on, your options are endless.  Make up Artist Kelly Heuss explains “the painted on masks are the most comfortable, as often the plastic ones get pretty hot and sweaty when you’re dancing the night away. ”  You can make an appointment with Kelly  of www.airodynamic.net to get a mask painted on at Square One Salon, the Beauty Box and Mac cosmetics counters are also offering the service.

Cake Hope & Love’s Red Velvet Cupcakes will help raise $ for Masquerage.

What makes Masquerage more than just a dance party is the entertainment.  Over the years there have been Aerialists dangling from silk ropes, escape artists, contortionists, dance crews, fire dancers, knife throwers, and more. While ARC Ohio won’t reveal the line up for this year, they promise to continue the tradition of sexy, sultry and super eye catching performers.

And what’s a party without great food.  Chef Matt Hayden of Scratch Catering has created amazing munchies over the years and always has something tasty planned.  Cake Hope & Love will be featuring some sweet treats this year and has even gone a step further by offering to donate a a portion of all proceeds from the sale of their red velvet cupcakes from their Beavercreek store to ARC Ohio.

All  guests will be welcomed with a Jaegermesiter cocktail and Yeungling Beers and Buckeye Vodka are the barsponsors this year.  General admission tickets are $50, which is exactly what it costs ARC Ohio to administer one HIV test.  Testing is provided free to anyone who asks, and the test is a swab of the cheek with results in just 20 minutes.

If you prefer to attend Masquerage as a VIP, splurge for the Red Ribbon Lounge tickets, which include valet parking by Lexus of Dayton, face painting, all of your drinks, appetizers, entry into the 2nd floor lounge and the always coveted Swag Bag for $150.   Tickets can be purchased online  or at Square One Salons, Lexus of Dayton or Ghostlight Coffee. Tickets will be available at the event, but will cost $10 more there. The party starts at 8pm and runs til 1am, but the fun won’t end then, the official Masquerage After Party is hosted by MJ’s Cafe at 119 W. Third Street.

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Dayton Most Metro Ticket Contest

Dayton Most Metro is a proud sponsor of Masquerage and we’ve got a ticket hook up for three of our loyal readers!  Just fill out the form below, and then leave a comment telling us that YOU want tickets to go to Masquerage from Dayton Most Metro (and what VILLAIN or VIXEN you might go as)  – we’ll announce winners on Wednesday October 17th after 3pm – GOOD LUCK!

CONTEST CLOSED

Congratulations to our winners:

Carol Narigon

Jamie McQuinn

Annette Looper

Be A Part of Dayton’s Party of Parties!

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Masquerage is the signature annual event of AIDS Resource Center Ohio, raising critical unrestricted funding for individuals infected, affected and at risk of HIV/AIDS.  Since Masquerage’s  inception in 2002,  “Dayton’s Party  of Parties” for a cause has become the fastest growing, must-attend event in Dayton, bringing people together to have a great evening, generate greater awareness of HIV/AIDS issues and raise much needed funds to benefit client services and people living with or affected by this disease.

It takes hundreds of volunteers to pull off an event this size.  From artists and designers that can help with the decor, to bartenders and servers to keep the smiles on everyones faces.  We’ll need folks to work event check in, coat check and even first aid.  A crew is needed to work the silent auction area and so many other behind the scenes jobs that help keep the party going for an expected 1000 guests this year.

We’ll spend the week of Oct 11th transforming the RoundHouse at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds into a decadent venue for the 10th anniversary Masquerage, to be held on Sat, Oct 15th.

So if you’re willing to pitch in and help ARC Ohio by volunteering, sign up here, or contact [email protected] or by phone at 937-461-2347 x 2029.

More Adventures of Nikki Nett

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…and I’m back!

So, the adventures haven’t been so adventurous lately- I know, I know. Life happens and we all get a little busy, which ties right in with this adventure. Maybe that’s over stating it…we’ll call this one a series of mini adventures. Between work, school, networking, volunteering, kids activities, or whatever it is that keeps you busy, you still have to find a little time here & there to connect with your peeps. Whether it’s your oldest friend on the planet, work buddies, or a favorite family member, find some time- these are the connections that feed your soul. Here are a few thoughts on the hows & wheres to make it happen!

Alfredo Wrap from Flavors Eatery

If you’re south of town, stop in to Flavors Eatery right across from Centerville High School. They have a huge and eclectic menu with a little bit of everything. On a recent visit, I tried the alfredo wrap (yummo!) it came with a side of chips drizzled in their famous garlicky dressing (to die for!). I think I may have developed a slight addiction to their coconut-pineapple smoothie while I was there. Make sure you take a sec to check out the funky art that surrounds you while you’re grabbing a quick bite with your girlfriends!

Downtown? Make a quick little journey over to Butter Cafe on Brown St. Please leave your diet at the door so you can enjoy their ever changing array of  cupcakes and other sweet treats. This is a great option for those of you going the organic route. So many delicious choices on the menu, but I zeroed in on the chai french toast.   Excellent choice, I must say!  A little birdie told me their grilled pb&j is the way to go, perhaps I need to venture back down there to try it?

Do you prefer to catch up while shopping? If you haven’t yet, you HAVE TO stop in at Charming Charlie at the Greene. It’s pretty much the Disneyworld of accessories. Everything is grouped by color and the best part about it is the afford-ability!  This is a great place for gifts as well as funky/trendy pieces that don’t qualify as investment jewelry. I really prefer to highlight locally owned places and stay away from the chain stores, but Charming Charlie just needed to be mentioned. I’m in love, I really am.

Would you rather sip while you chat? Yes, please.  Head out to Cork & Vine right off of Miller Lane. They boast an extensive wine list (adding new wines weekly!) as well as 30 different martinis and a selection of  craft and domestic beers. Pull up a seat near the fireplace and discuss McDreamy’s hair last Thursday or how much you loved the Britney episode of Glee. Oh wait, that’s what I like to do, I’m sure you have your own topics of conversation.

Now, I don’t know about you, but during the fall, my favorite way to connect with friends is over FOOTBALL!!!!! I love it. I reaaaalllyy love it. Over the past few weeks, we have established my love for heels and lipgloss, let’s just say football completes the trifecta. Frickin Chicken Chunks, cheddar balls and Miller Lite is the standard meal of choice while complaining about my Fantasy Football team or saying loudly (over and over, as a self-calming measure) that the Browns can turn their luck around any minute. Many a Fricker’s have been graced with my presence (and that of my crazy friends) while we revel in the atmosphere of too much testosterone, hot sauce and the sensory overload of a million (give or take a few) tv’s.

This week, I am most looking forward to getting together with friends at Masquerage! This annual party of parties raises money for AIDS Resource Center Ohio and is hands down, one of the best events the Miami Valley has to offer. I have been obsessing about my costume for weeks and can NOT wait to see what everyone else is wearing! Do YOU have any Heavenly Pleasures or Sinful Delights you’d like to share with the world? Masquerage is the place to do it! I hope to see some of you there!

There you have it, some fun stuff to do while getting together with your peeps. I’d like to add that any food or drink mentioned in this article is fat-free, carb-free, calorie-free and has anti-aging benefits.  This is a fact that I will firmly stand by (until challenged, at which point I will crumble like a stale cookie with the realization that maybe blatantly lying to myself doesn’t really work). As always, if you know of any place that merits checking out on my adventures, comment below or find me on Twitter- Nikkisayswhat. Until next time, lovlies…

Jane’s Best Bets (10/13 – 10/17)

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Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

Did you know that in addition to being the month for pumpkins, costumes, and corn mazes, October is also a good time to remind us to wear ear plugs when we’re out enjoying those loud festivals and concerts, or perhaps when we’re using one of those annoying leaf blowers, as it is National Audiology Awareness Month!  I hope you don’t mind me putting in a plug for this cause!  Speaking of plugs, I’ve been plugging away trying to find some good things for you to do.  I’ve realized there are many ways to support wonderful causes this week AND have fun at the same time!

On Wednesday, learn how to help raise funds for your non-profit board at the presentation Building Your Best Board at the Main Branch of the Dayton Metro Library.  If you would like to know how this year’s political candidates plan to make Dayton an even better place, consider attending the Updayton Candidates Forum downtown.  And if you’d prefer to just relax, put on some pink lipstick and make your way over to A Taste of Wine in Miamisburg  for their ‘*Pink Sips for the Cure’*, which will include wine tastings, light appetizers, and music.

Moving on to Thursday…If you are a M*A*S*H fan, you’ll definitely want to head over to the Schuster Center for A Cigar, a Dress and a Hairy Chest, where the Junior League of Dayton’s Town Hall Lecture Series will be welcoming Jamie Farr, who played Corporal Max Klinger on the show.  If you want to make a difference in our community, skate your way to the 10th Annual Ribbon of Hope Luncheon to benefit the Women’s Wellness Fund, where Olympic gold medalist Peggy Fleming will be the keynote speaker!  And in the evening, be sure to empty your bowl at the Empty Bowls Fundraiser for House of Bread in order to raise funds for this community kitchen that serves food seven days a week to the needy.   Finally, if you’re a young professional looking to network with other young professionals in the area, be sure to attend Generation Dayton’s ‘Thirsty Thursday’ at SideBar.  At this point in time, I’m not sure at which side of the bar we’ll be located, but if you attend, be sure to say hi!

On Friday, support the fight to end domestic violence in the Miami Valley by attending the Artemis Center’s Annual Peacekeeper Awards Luncheon at the Mandalay Banquet Center.  If you work or volunteer for a non-profit, be sure to attend the American Humanics Fall Workshop entitled, The Nonprofit Toolbox, which will take place at the Boonshoft Museum.  This workshop will help you take advantage of the many modern resources available (e.g. social media) to promote your nonprofit.  Plus, Lisa Grigsby from DaytonMostMetro.com will be one of the speakers!  If you love to read, make your way to Hara Arena for the Dayton Metro Library Book Sale, which will also be happening on Saturday and Sunday.  In the evening, if you are into haunted houses and other fall-related activities, check out Salem’s Lot Haunted Carnival at the Old Salem Mall, Haunted Wagon Rides at Young’s Jersey Dairy, or the The 2010 MAiZE @ Meadow View.  And if you enjoy musicals and are looking for an island get away without the cost, check out Once On This Island at Sinclair.

Hopefully you went to bed at a decent hour on Friday night so you’ll be able to start off Saturday with the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk at Fifth Third Field or the Miami Valley Pet Therapy Association’s 5th Annual Happy Howl-O-Ween Dog Walk at Indian Riffle Park in Kettering.  I wonder if there will be any weiner dogs there.  Afterwards, bring out the entire family for the Fall Family Fun Day at the PNC 2nd Street Market, where there will be pumpkin decorating, musical entertainment, and more.  If you enjoy seafood and wine, head to the Bella Vino Wine Merchants for their Clam Bake.  Or if you are a Star Trek buff, you’ll want to trek your way to the Victoria Theatre to see Star Trek Live!

Also on Saturday…If you’re a hockey lover, your goal is to be in attendance at the Dayton Gems’ opening night where they will take on the Evansville Icemen at Hara Arena.  If you’re a young professional who enjoys the arts, then Jump into Dance with JumpstART & DCDC at Stivers School for the Arts.  Although I have never seen the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company (DCDC), I have heard wonderful things about them so I am sure they will put on an amazing performance!  And, if you love to party, people watch, dance, and in general just have a fabulous time, then you don’t want to miss Masquerage at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds!  In addition to being a very entertaining evening of “heavenly pleasures and sinful delights,” you will be helping to raise money for people infected with or affected by HIV/AIDS.  Partying for a great cause…I love it!

On Sunday, take part in the National Kidney Foundation Walk at The Greene.  Or, take the kids out to Windmill Farms Fall Festival for hayrides, pumpkins, face painting, and much more!  If you didn’t get the chance to see Star Trek Live on Saturday, you still have another opportunity to check it out.  If you are a book worm who loves a good bargain, wiggle your way over to the Dayton Metro Library Book Sale where books will be reduced to all you can carry for a dollar!  And in the evening, if you are in need of a good laugh or if you want to try your hand (or really your feet) at stand-up, invite a friend and go to Wiley’s Comedy Club for their Open-Mic Night!

And now it’s time for the Dumb Joke of the Week. Drum roll please…

Why shouldn’t you tell secrets in a cornfield? 
Because corn has ears.
(Courtesy of my Grandma Krebs!)

These are just a few best bets from the DMM Calendar.  There are plenty more events listed there, so if you haven’t, I encourage you to check it out today!  Also, if you have an event to share or promote, please submit it– it’s great marketing and better yet, it’s FREE!   And finally, if you have a dumb joke to share, I’m all ears!

Have a great week Dayton!

Scan Your Way To Masquerage

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Dayton’s Party of Parties is just 5 weeks away -Masquerage, AIDS Resource Center Ohio’s (ARC Ohio) annual masked party for a cause fundraiser.  But for one lucky winner, visiting the sponsors of this year’s Masquerage will pay off in a big way- they can Scan Their Way to a $500 Red Ribbon Lounge Ticket package that includes VIP event tickets, an overnight package at the Dayton Marriott with breakfast on Sunday and  transportation to and from the event.

In a unique partnership with Dayton-based Comtactics, participants can use their smart phones to scan a QR code from a poster at each sponsor’s business and when they visit at least 10 sponsors, they will automatically be entered in a drawing to win the Red Ribbon Lounge ticket package.  Participants can download a free code reader for their smartphone on the ScanDayton.com site.  Participants can even enter the drawing by texting the word “SCANDAYTON” to 41411 and then follow the instructions.

Comtactics, LLC, a multiplatform communications company based at Dayton’s Tech Town, developed the “ScanVenger Hunt” idea as a creative way to introduce the technology to the Dayton-area.  They’ve successfully hosted ScanVenger hunts at The Greene and during Urban Nights. “This will be our first partnership with a nonprofit fundraiser and we’re excited about using 2d technology for this dynamic interactive contest, says Sean Fields, President and CEO of Comtactics.

Since Masquerage’s inception in 2002 , this party for a cause has raised more than $650,000 in unrestricted funds in support of HIV/AIDS case management, education, prevention, testing and advocacy; allowing attendees to have a unique and entertaining experience while supporting ARC Ohio and its mission of impacting those infected and affected with HIV/AIDS.  With offices in Dayton, Lima, Mansfield and Toledo, ARC Ohio is recognized as the leading provider of HIV/AIDS related programs within a 40 county region of Ohio. For more information about ARC Ohio, log onto www.arcohio.org or call (937) 461-2437.

To be entered in the drawing to win a $500 Red Ribbon Lounge Ticket package you’ll need to visit at least 10 of the sponsors- but since we like our friends at DaytonMostMetro.com you can scan the code pictured here and you’ll only need 9 more!

You can visit American Family Insurance, Auntie Anne’s Pretzels, Better Business Bureau, Coco’s Bistro, Digital Fringe, The Flower Shoppe, Lexus of Dayton, MacTown,  any of the Marion’s Piazza, Masque, Meadowlark Restaurant, Preen Apothecary, either of the Square One Salons and Urban HandMade.  Keep checking the Masquerage website for more additions!

Tickets for the Masquerage party can be reserved online at www.Masquerage.org or charged by phone by calling 461-2437 x 2029.  General Admission tickets include welcoming cocktail, hors d’oeuvres, and nonstop dancing and entertainment for $50, while entry to the Red Ribbon Lounge runs $150 per guest and includes heavenly delicacies created by The Meadowlark, valet parking courtesy of Lexus of Dayton, a swag bag full of sinful delights, and, for the first time ever, a complimentary array of lustful libations!