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International Best Selling Author visits Dayton to Discuss Power of Meditation

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We are living in a time of much discord, both within the society at large, and within our own hearts. It’s a time when many people are finding the stresses of everyday modern life are taking a toll on their health, careers and relationships. What can we do to find some balance in such an overwhelming, fast paced world?

One of the most important ways to maintain inner peace is through meditation. For most people, this advice is not new. They’ve heard it time and again, but with so much to do, who has time to do “nothing”? Ultra successful people like Steve Jobs, Oprah, Seinfeld, Madonna and many others credit meditation as a key factor in their success. If they have time to meditate, then surely we do too!

Taking time to meditate is not “doing nothing.” It’s giving your restless mind time to calm down, to slow your heart rate, and connect with your inner-self. Uma Mullapudi, a local meditation trainer, explained to me “You take a shower and brush your teeth. You don’t think about it, it’s just part of your daily routine. Meditation is a cleansing for the mind, and it needs it just as badly as your body.” I inquired why our minds need this cleansing so badly. “It’s because you take in stressors and negative impressions going through your day. Meditation, especially Heartfulness method, clears those away.”

The Heartfulness Way that Mullapudi describes is a century-old method of meditation with the power to facilitate an immediate, tangible spiritual experience, irrespective of a person’s faith. This non-denominational practice is taught all over the world, and most recently, the subject of a new best selling book The Heartfulness Way – Simple Tools for Spiritual Transformation. In this heart-centered book, a student, Joshua Pollock, is in conversation with his teacher, Kamlesh D. Patel—affectionately known as Daaji.

While many books describe refined states of being, The Heartfulness Way goes further, providing a pragmatic course to experience those states for oneself, which, per the book’s guiding principle, is “greater than knowledge.” Joshua Pollock is a Heartfulness trainer and practitioner from the United States. In fact, he visited Dayton in his early days of learning the Heartfulness meditation practice.  He returns to Dayton on June 24th and June 25th to discuss the journey of writing this book, and how Heartuflness has changed his life, and can help yours too!

The sessions include Q&A with the Joshua Pollock, along with a 30 min Heartfulness medtation session. Find out how you can earn about the Heartfulness Way at one of two local sessions listed below. Also a trailer for the book is at bottom of this article.

How to Go?

Sunday, June 24
10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Heartfulness Dayton Meditation Center
3153 Lantz Rd.,
Beavercreek, OH 45432

Monday, June 25
6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Dayton International Peace Museum
208 W. Monument Ave,
Dayton, OH 45402

For more information:

Phone: 937-427-0886
Email: [email protected]

Register Now

 

 

 

 

 

You Voted For Him On TV – Now See Him Live!

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“The Voice” Contestant and Ohio Native Chris Jamison to Perform In Dayton

Singer/ songwriter and “The Voice” alumnus Chris Jamison will bring his brand of Midwestern pop-soul to the Miami Valley this Wednesday, April 25, at Top of the Market.

Jamison honed his chops in musical theater and the Columbus, Ohio bar scene in his younger years.  Those developmental years paid off, when, in 2014, he auditioned for NBC’s “The Voice”, and Jamison made it onto the show as a contestant on Adam Levine’s team.  He would ultimately finish third but, “Voice” judge and superstar producer/singer Pharrell Williams had high praise for him, saying: “Chris Jamison to me was nothing short of magical!”

Jamison would go on to be one of “The Voice’s” best-selling contestants after his exit from the show. His debut single “Velvet” nearly sold 80,000 digital downloads in one week, and it topped out at over 400,000 total sales.  Jamison’s debut EP, “I Am Chris Jamison”, which was released last August, shot to #5 on the iTunes Albums charts.

You will be able to experience the magic of Jamison at 5pm, at Top of the Market, 32 Webster St, Dayton, OH 45402. Doors will open at 5pm, and ticket buyers are welcome to arrive early for the buffet dinner. For more info, go here. Or, call 937.224.3663.

**Thank you to Greg Simms Jr. for the story!

 

Local talent on display at the 5th Annual WinterFolk Festival

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Although it’s considered “off” season for music festivals, wintertime ones are some of my favorites! We’ve all got cabin fever, and just need to get out of the house and have fun! One of the most highly anticipated of those winter festivals is right around the corner: The 5th annual WinterFolk Festival at Yellow Cab Tavern on Sat, Jan 13th.

It’s a spectacular night of  music, art, food, & fun for all ages. This includes a non-stop line-up of best roots and folk musicians from the tri-state area, including beloved acts The Repeating Arms, Tod Weidner, David Payne, Starving in the Belly of the Whale, Kyleen Downes, The Goldberrys, OldNews, Bloody Tambourine, and several more!

It’s also about this time of year, I’m missing food trucks. Come hungry and catch the Drunken Waffle serving food on-site, along with Yellow Cab Tavern’s craft brews and cocktails. This year’s event has expanded, with even more artisans and vendors selling handmade goods. It’s an all around perfect night out!

How did this event come about? Well, it was inspired by a love of music, of course, and also the venue itself, Yellow Cab Tavern. In its infancy, WinterFolk organizers could see the potential in YCT, starting the festival as a fundraiser, which led to the venue’s recent upgrades. This type of collaboration is sign of a true music community! Make sure you stop on out to support these wonderful folks!

 

How to Go?

Where: The ‘Old’ Yellow Cab Building (700 E Fourth St. Dayton, Ohio 45402) is located at the corner of Fourth St and Walnut just outside Dayton’s historic Oregon District. Plenty of FREE parking is available on and off street at the event.

Time / Cost: Doors will open at 7pm and the first performance will start promptly at 8pm. Tickets available exclusively at the door for $10, children 12 & under are free.

Enjoy an Evening of Celtic Music & Dance!

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Colleen Raney performs in Dayton for the first time at the Celtic Concert on December 10th at Stivers High School

For all the Celtic lovers out there, an upcoming event featuring Celtic music and dance, is just for you! The evening starts off with a performance by Celtic Academy of Irish Dance followed by local musical favorites Dulahan, followed by headliner and acclaimed Irish singer, Colleen Raney.  This show is being presented at Centennial Hall inside Stivers School for the Arts in downtown Dayton, and will benefit We Care Arts. This is a family friendly evening that’s sure to entertain Celtic lovers of all ages!

Colleen Raney has been referred to as “among the best in her genre” (Irish Music Magazine) and “one of America’s best traditional singers” (Tradconnect) . Her ability to convey her love of Irish music makes every performance a captivating experience! Colleen is making her first visit to the Dayton area and will perform here with her band, which includes: Hanz Araki on flute and vocals, Bethany Waickman on guitar and Ryan Davidson on upright bass and vocals. In addition to singing, Colleen also plays guitar and bodhran.

Dulahan‘s music pays homage to traditional and contemporary Celtic with 3 and 4 part harmonies and subtle hints of Roots/Americana. The Celtic Academy of Irish Dance is one of Dayton’s fine Irish Dance schools. Many of the students compete at the local, national and international levels, and they are a joy to watch!

Sunni Russo, the organizer of this concert, loved the variety of new music that Cityfolk brought to the Dayton area. She discovered many artists and musical styles she would not have known about otherwise.  In that tradition, she wanted to bring an artist, Colleen Raney, who has not played in Dayton before.

The Celtic Academy of Irish Dance performs at the Celtic Concert held on December 10, 2017 at Stivers High School

December 10th, 2017
Show from 7-10pm
Stivers High School
Tickets are just $25 and on sale now! 
For more info or if they prefer not to order online:
Tickets will also be available at the door.
The show will benefit We Care Arts, a great local charity! Check them out at www.wecarearts.org

Cardboard Crowns Sets an Opening Date!

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Cardboard Crowns LogoFor a few months now, the buzz around a new gaming cafe in Dayton has been building. Cardboard Crowns (147 N. Springboro Pike Dayton OH United States 45449) will be offering food, craft beer, and hundreds of games to be played. And we finally have an opening date! This grand new space near the Dayton Mall will be opening on November 6th for the public.

Before that, they will be doing a series of soft opening events for local charities as the space continues to come to life. Tickets for each of the events are $25 per person, with $20 going to the charity being supported. These events begin this Sunday, and will benefit:

In addition to the above events, from 10 AM on Saturday, November 4th to 10 AM on Sunday, November 5th Cardboard Crowns will be hosting the Extra Life Tabletop Marathon, with all proceeds from library fees benefitting Dayton Children’s Hospital. You can show your support for the Cardboard Crowns team here, or build your own team to compete for a great cause!

The space is coming along for Ben and his team, and they look forward to seeing many of their fellow Daytonians over the next week, learning new games with friends, enjoying delightful beers, and supporting local causes.

Cardboard Crowns Ben Adams

The owner, Ben Adams, cutting the sound panel fabric.

Cardboard Crowns Space

The space is starting to look like it is ready for gamers!

Cardboard Crowns Booths

The sound panels rising…

Cardboard Crowns Bar

The front bar, ready for thirsty patrons.

Cardboard Crowns Shelves

What gaming space would be complete without Kallax shelves?

 

Boys Night Out with Mom benefits Ronald McDonald House

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The Red Shoe Society Dayton and the Jr. Red Shoe Society invites sons and their mothers, grandmothers, and friends to share an evening of dancing and games, to support Ronald McDonald House Charities of Dayton. The Boys Night Out with Mom is a memory-making event that is both fun and teaches our young men the importance of giving back to help others.

Festivities include: Dinner & Dancing, Raffles, Sports, Games & Prizes, Sweets & Treats, and Photo Station! If you’re interested in attending, don’t delay, register today!

Proceeds benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities of Dayton and its mission to provide a “home-away-from-home” to families of critically ill or injured, hospitalized babies and children. Can’t attend but want to help? Share this event and Subscribe to their mailing list for future Red Shoe events.

How to go?

Sunday, October 8, 2017
NCR Country Club
4435 Dogwood Trail, Kettering
4:30 PM – 7:00 PM

Cost is $30 per guest, registration available until Wednesday, 10/4. Registration required to attend.

For questions, please contact Marisa Brown at [email protected].

Cardboard Crowns Kickstarter Event!

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Cardboard Crowns Logo

Opening in October 2017…

The intersection of board games and beverages is not a new phenomenon. For those that have been enjoying coffee shops since the late 90’s, there has always been a few well-loved board games on the shelves of our favorite place to grab a cappuccino to start the day. It was not until 2010 that two enterprising Canadians opened Snakes and Lattes, the first café to offer games as a reason to get some coffee with friends, not just as an added benefit. In the seven years they have been open, they have witnessed an explosion of venues that offers drinks and light snacks while gamers enjoy some beverages and explore new games. While many started with coffee drinks, there has been an evolution into craft beer and craft cocktails. Coming soon, a new venue in the Dayton area will offer a space to explore gaming with good friends. Cardboard Crowns will be opening up this fall at 147 N. Springboro Pike, and they want you to be part of the fun with a Kickstarter Launch Party this Saturday, September 16 from 12 PM to 5 PM at Warped Wing Brewery!

Head to the brewery to learn about the Kickstarter, play new games and enjoy great craft beer. At this event, you have the opportunity to meet the owner and manager of Cardboard Crowns and hear about everything they have planned for the cafe. They will be introducing the support levels for their Kickstarter at the event, but you can prepare with this handy list:

  • $5 – Show your support for Cardboard Crowns and get your name inlaid in a wooden hex in the cafe’s bar top.
  • $15 – Donate a seat for one of our guests with your name on it! (Plus Bar Hex)
  • $25 – Help us grow the cafe’s library by backing a new game for the cafe’s collection, adding your name to the game’s inside box lid for all to see! (Plus Bar Hex)
  • $50 – Donate a section of shelving that will bear your name for all to see! (Plus Bar Hex)
  • Cardboard Crowns In Progress

    All his space for gaming in progress!

    $75 – You helped us purchase a table for the cafe that will forever bear your name! (Plus Bar Hex)

  • $100 – Two tickets to the cafe’s grand opening party, a private event open only to Kickstarter supporters! Each ticket includes drinks, food, your name in one of the cafe’s games, and a bar hex.
  • $300 – You’re donating the coolest seating option the cafe has to offer.  Our 6-seater booths will make you feel like you’re a VIP for the night.  As part of this reward, you’ll get to pick the board game that will be framed and used to theme one of our booths; your name will go on a plaque in the booth, you’ll get two tickets to the grand opening party and a hex on the bar top.
  • $350 –  The ultimate party experience.  You and seven friends get the cafe’s party booth for the night!  The package includes two drinks per person, two food items per person and a dedicated board game teacher to help make sure your group has a night they won’t forget!
  • $1000 – The cafe will only have one 8-seater party booth, and you’re going to help us theme it and put your name on it!  As part of this reward, you’ll get to pick the board game that will be framed and used to theme the cafe’s party booth; your name will go on a plaque in the party booth, you’ll get two tickets to the grand opening party and a monster sized hex on the bar top.
  • $2000 – The back of the cafe will feature a relaxed social corner for folks to sit down in and play social/party games.  Back at this level and you’ll get your name on a plaque letting folks know who made the area possible.  Additionally, you’ll get two tickets to the grand opening party and a mammoth sized hex on the bar top.
Cardboard Crowns game collection

So many games to play!

All of this support is going into a gaming café that has been planned out and well researched by Ben Adams, the owner of the venue. Ben has visited many other of these cafes across the country and has worked hard to address the most common issues he found in each location. To cut down on the noise of many games going on at once, soundproofing materials will be used on the walls and in booth separators to quiet down the space. Access to the cafe and its collection of over 700 games will be just a $5 library fee per person, and if you are looking to play in a private booth, an extra ten dollars for the party can provide that privacy. As mentioned above, there will also be a larger space for party games and party booth for private events.

They have developed a rating system for each one of the games, so those that are just getting into the hobby have an idea of the involvement of the game. Green labels are less involved games, where a quick explanation of the rules by one of the cafe’s game masters should be enough to get a group started. Yellow labels are more complex, and there will be staff on hand to help answer questions as you play. Red labels will be very intricate, heavy strategy games which may require more explanation than the team can provide. And with over 700 games in the collection, not every staff member will know all the games.  Booths and tables will have tablets available that will provide videos to explain the rules of almost any game in the cafe’s collection.

This Saturday, September 16th from 12 to 5 PM, is the big launch party! You will have the opportunity to support this new venture while playing some games with the owner and enjoying craft beers by Warped Wing. There are even some hints about game giveaways that day. Ben and the Cardboard Crowns team look forward to seeing all of you this weekend!

 

Human Race kicks off 17-18 Season with Legendale

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The Human Race Theatre Company kicks off it’s 2017-2018 Season with a fun performance for the next generation of theatre fans! LEGENDALE, an exciting new pop-musical where reality and the digital world collide, opens September 7 and runs through October 1, 2017. 
The story is based on Andy, whose favorite way to escape his miserable job and humdrum life is the online game “Legendale.” He dreams of victory in its new tournament and winning the grand prize to become “the Lord of Legendale,” but is stuck competing as a lowly milkmaid. When things in the online world suddenly take a strange turn, Andy and his avatar must both discover their inner warrior. A blend of romance, adventure and virtual reality with a pop-infused score, it’s an inspiring tale like no other that’s sure to delight!
 
Human Race is offering fun ways to celebrate this first performance, and American Premiere of LEGENDALE! They have two very special upcoming nights that are extra special:
  • HRTC is hosting their very first COSPLAY CONTEST NIGHT  on September 11 with more than $1800 worth of prizes (full list of prizes and rules are posted on the FB event page). Comedian Jessica Graue is MCing the event. $10 for participants, $5 for general audience. Kids can compete too! Registration starts at 6:15pm, pre-judging at 7pm, and parade of costumes at 8pm. All participants ages 13 and up will receive a ticket voucher good for and show on our 2017-2018 Loft season.
  • Young Professionals Night is Saturday, September 16. The pre-show party begins at 5pm in the HRTC rehearsal hall on the second floor below the theatre. They have a massive selection of board games to play, a taco bar, margaritas and craft beer. We will also be giving away prizes donated from 2nd & Charles, The Human Race Theatre, and Sixteen 37. (board games, gift certificates, and more!) Tickets are available at www.ticketcenterstage.com by entering code YPGAME. A value of $70+ for $35!
Don’t miss out on this cutting-edge new musical, that’s perfectly timed after Game of Thrones finale, and during Renaissance Festival season. Fall is the perfect time to let fantasy worlds come alive! So please get your ticket for the first of many amazing productions by our own, Human Race Theatre Company!

How to go?
Performances run Sept 7th through October 1st (Mondays off)
Tickets start at just $12 and up! Special $10 any seat nights also available.
For more info on tickets, click here or call box office: (937) 228-3630
DMM Ticket Give Away:  We’ve got a pair of tickets and winner can pick the date they attend (based on availability).  To enter our drawing, just like and share this post and leave a comment below on why you deserve to win!
We’ll name our winner here Thursday, so check back to see if it’s you!
 

Dayton Ballet & DCDC Volunteers Duel Behind the Bar!

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Dayton is renowned for it’s incredible legacy in the history of American dance. In 1927, The Schwarz School of Dance (now Dayton Ballet School) was opened in Dayton, by the gifted Schwarz sisters, who returned home after performing professionally around the world. Ten years later, the sisters created “The Experimental Group for Young Dancers,” and staged a performance at the Dayton Art Institute. This was the first performance of what is now the Dayton Ballet, the second oldest regional ballet company in the US.

The Schwarz sisters instructed another pioneer of dance, Jeraldyne Blunden. In 1968, Jeraldyen went on to create her own school, Jeraldyne’s School of Dance. A few years later, she established the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company, the first modern dance company in Ohio. The company regularly performs in Dayton, and around the world, including an upcoming trip to Russia and Kazakhstan next May as part of Dance Motion USA, a cultural diplomacy program organized by the U.S. Department of State and the Brooklyn Academy of Music.

These incredible achievements and milestones are being celebrated with style over the next year or two. The Dayton Ballet celebrates it’s 80th Season, and next year DCDC hits their 50th Birthday! Volunteers from the Dayton Ballet Barre and DCDC Ambassadors are joining forces Tuesday, September 5th, 2017 at Brixx Ice Company to kickoff these spectacular seasons! They’ll be slinging drinks as dueling bartenders, and might even have a dance off or two!

Enjoy commradere, drink specials, and a fun way to support these historic arts organizations. Best of all – there will be random ticket giveaways for the exciting up-coming seasons! There will also be ticket discounts available to anyone interested. Tickets to these outstanding artistic events are perfect for date nights, girls nights, and gifts!

How to Go?

Dayton Ballet Barre & DCDC Ambassadors

Dueling Bartenders / 2017-2018 Season Kickoff!

Tuesday, September 5th, 2017 from 6pm-8pm

Brixx Ice Company – 500 E 1st Dayton, OH

 

HeartFest: A Fun, Free & Family Friendly Wellness Festival!

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HeartFest takes place at the beautiful Natural Path Meditation Center in Beavercreek, Ohio

Stressed? Seeking some peace of mind? Aren’t we all! It’s not as complicated as we tend to imagine. Self care, through movement and meditation, can dramatically improve our ability to cope with an increasingly stressful world.

Lots of folks are unaware that we have a wonderful resource nestled right here in the Miami Valley! The Natural Path Meditation Center, a non-denominational center that teaches a heart-based form of meditation called Heartfulness, is located in Beavercreek, conveniently close to both Fairfield and I-35 (directions below).

This weekend the Center is hosting their 2nd Annual HeartFest event. It’s a FREE & fun wellness festival, with workshops and vendors for all ages! Organizers hope that by offering tools for self care and inner peace, people will be able to live a more balanced life. How wonderful would that be for our community?

Curious about meditation, yoga, and wellness? Looking for ways to cope with stress? Seeking inner peace? Something to do with the kids? All of the above? Then this is sure to be a wonderful day you won’t want to miss!

HeartFest features:

  • Heartfulness Meditation sessions all day
  • Kids Tent with Activities for all ages
  • Variety of Wellness Speakers & Vendors
  • Movement Tent offering yoga, qigong, & Melt classes + Music!
  • Food Trucks (Shakery Juice Bar, Harvest Mobile Cuisine, and Bella Sorella Pizza!)
  • For the full schedule of events, click here.

How to go?

  • 10am – 5pm on Saturday August 19, 2017.
  • Free admission!
  • Parking at St. Luke’s Parking Lot. For directions click here.

Dayton Bar Stars – Jerrod Claytor

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Dayton Bar Stars The Century Bar

The staff at The Century with their 2017 Summer cocktail menu.

The list of reasons that the Century Bar is one of the best bourbon bars in the country is a long one. It starts with the well-curated whiskey collection, brought together by the staff over the years. Everything from daily sippers to rare bottles saved for special occasions. Once that was assembled, they began a cocktail program that is one of the best in the city. Not only are they making specialty cocktails, they are making the syrups, shrubs, and bitters that go in it. They are doing the research to revive some of the classic, lesser known libations and creating some modern delights. They use local ingredients and spirits when they are able, building an impressive library of recipes. Even the atmosphere feels like you have stepped out of Dayton and into a little pocket where time stopped just before Prohibition. The back bar is over 150 years old, and has been sitting in that building for the last eighty years.

The most important differentiator, however, is the staff. Joe Head, co-owner of this fine establishment, has established a system that makes sure the bartenders employed there know more about liquor and cocktails than anyone walking through that door. They can tell you the history of any of the bottles they grab off that elegant back bar, right down to the best way to enjoy it. It is possible they can discuss the actual tree the barrel was made from. One of these bartenders, Jerrod Claytor, knows as much as anyone else about what is going on behind that bar.

Jerrod Claytor The Century Bar

Jerrod Claytor of The Century Bar

Jerrod, like many bartenders, followed a wandering path to get to be in one of the more coveted bartender gigs in Dayton. He started off working towards a job in the finance sector, filled with its own unique perils. When he discovered that was not the right fit for him, he started to explore other career options in the Miami Valley. When the Century made its transition from a dive bar to a bourbon house, Jerrod was one of the first people they brought in to help with their expanded hours and new direction. He has been part of this new chapter since almost day one, and it looks like he is going to be there for a long time.

How did you get into bartending?

I started serving and bartending 15 years ago after college. Frankly, it gave me an opportunity to meet lots of people, make fair money, and have the freedom to pursue other endeavors. It wasn’t, yet, a career choice. The more experienced I gained (at one point I worked at four locations) and more responsibilities I was given, I realized this path was apt for me and my personality. I now feel both incredibly fortunate and comfortable to be working alongside such professional people who’ve walked this path with me. Not too many people can say they work with their family and best friends in a nationally recognized bar.

What is your favorite drink to make?

Well-executed classics are great. I am always happy making a simple old-fashioned. It’s a no-fail and for some, a gateway to bourbon and whiskey (my love). I make Manhattans mostly at home.

Which drink makes you internally cringe?

I honestly love cocktails and drink just about anything myself, so I don’t discriminate. I suppose I may internally roll my eyes when folks still order chilled shots or shot backs. Just seems unnecessary.

Jerrod Claytor Century Bar

In his favorite environment with his favorite spirits.

Do you have a favorite spirit you like to work with?

Aside from bourbon and whiskey, I really find cognacs, brandies, and their variations highly versatile and tasty.

When you go out for a drink in Dayton, where is your favorite place to go?

Breweries, restaurants, etc. I really enjoy quiet afternoons on days off at small family bars.

Who is the most famous person you have served?

I served Arlo Guthrie once. I thought that was pretty cool. I had a room full of astronauts including every one of the first moon-landers. I still get goosebumps when I think of that. Surprisingly, the nicest celebrities I’ve served were Donahue and Arnold Palmer.

What do you do when you are not bartending?

Relaxing, cooking, backpacking, cycling, pseudo art projects, and of course, drinking.

What are your favorite trends from the last year?

The emergence of more high-end rums, mezcals, and the continuing validity of handmade or fresh ingredients in bars and restaurants.

Sometimes he travels outside of the bar…

What trends do you see coming to Dayton over the next six months?

More availability of unique whiskey blend and finishes, along with Eurasian malts (Americans curiosity is swiftly fueling these).

What advice do you want to give bartenders just getting into the business?

Be patient, pay your dues, and work hard. Never sit on your hands, keep your mind open and continually learn. Of course, take pride in your work. Oh, don’t make it snooty either.

What do you love most about Dayton?

Dayton is culturally my kind of city – historically and philosophically. It fits my personality. I transplanted here over 20 years ago and it’s always felt like home.

How you normally see Jerrod; a blur and a cocktail in front of you.

Most interesting thing you have seen from behind the bar?

Nakedness.

How has bartending changed in the time you have been in the industry?

Generally, the refocus on quality spirits and ingredients as opposed to synthetic and faux martinis. I think it’s mostly an extension of this generation’s ability to eat better. They also want to drink better!

What do you wish customers knew that helped you do your job?

There’s really no need to start a tab for one drink.

If you were not a bartender, what career would you be pursuing?

Something with plants. Maybe I’d have a greenhouse or something. Don’t really know. I never liked jobs.

Dive Bar Thursday – Patterson Pub

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Dive Bar Thursday Patterson Pub

Welcome to the Patterson Pub!

When I moved to the Dayton area in the late 1990’s, one of the first places I frequented for an adult beverage was Taggart’s Pub. It was close to my apartment and had a friendly atmosphere with inexpensive beer. Perfect for someone in a new city just out of school! As a bonus it was also a Browns bar, adding that little touch of home. Every Sunday, I would head over with other masochistic fans of Cleveland football and watch our team struggle, enjoying complimentary food far more than the football games. We were happy the team had returned to Cleveland, but it was painful to watch. In 2014, the owner of Taggart’s Pub announced he was going to move to a larger venue. Unfortunately for Dayton, that new space never materialized. Even as they were leaving their seventeen-year home, they announced there was going to be a new owner taking over the space. After an incredibly short closure, the Patterson Pub opened up and has been going strong ever since.

If you have not been to Patterson Pub (970 Patterson Rd Dayton, OH 45419) in a while, you need to come and visit. Other than the ownership, little has changed in this Belmont area staple. There are two main areas to the pub: the spacious front room and the much more intimate back bar. The front room holds three large televisions and all the dart boards you could want. Six steel tip and three plastic tip board are there for the throwing, with multiple dart leagues through the week and the occasional tournament. The back bar is just that. It is the place where the magic happens. There is plenty of room to belly up and watch television or play some digital golf while enjoying a beer or cocktail. They have held on to their Irish roots as a pub. Their reverence for a good Irish whiskey and all things green, white, and orange still shines. Along with the orange of the Irish flag, they are still proudly (or, after last season, not as proudly) displaying the orange and brown of the Cleveland Browns. Whiskey and football are two of their great loves. Yes, they still are a Browns bar and show their games on Sundays in the main room. Other games are shown in the back bar area, for reasons that will become clear.

Dive Bar Thursday beer and liquor

So much to offer a thirsty patron.

They offer beers for every palate, from $5 Miller High Life pitchers (when they have it on tap) to a nitro tap to infuse extra smoothness into a beer. While some craft options, like Rhinegheist’s Truth, are always on tap, they bring in a variety of other selections that rotate through the seasons. If that is not enough, there are bottles and cans that expand on the tap offering. They even have a variety of specials through the week, including happy hour pricing from 3 to 7 PM daily. That pricing includes cocktails as well. And yes, they do have a cocktail menu to order from. As with the beers, it changes with the seasons but always has at least one Irish whiskey cocktail on the menu. Their liquor selection is continuing to grow, with plans to add some local Belle of Dayton gin and expand their selection of whiskeys. They do offer the normal bar foods like pizza, nachos, pretzels, and pepperoni and cheese breadsticks known as Bosco sticks. You can bring your own food as well, and their neighbors at Corleone’s Pizza are willing to deliver right to the bar.

How friendly is this bar? Very. They are friendly to the service industry, with Monday night being their Service Industry Night. On a slow night for most bars, they offer special pricing for all of the other hard-working bartenders in the Dayton area. They are also still very friendly to Browns fans. They have continued the tradition of the Browns Club for the diehards that have suffered through over two dozen quarterbacks and one minor logo change.

Patterson Pub Cocktail Specials

Cocktail and beer specials! Just waiting to be enjoyed…

The games are shown on the televisions in the main room along with food, cooked by one of the patrons, for members of the club. For a small fee, you get a t-shirt, a lanyard with an ID card, a magnet with the schedule, and a host of other specials and benefits. If you have a group of fans that want a table for the season, there is a way to buy that as well. Not only that, but any patron who comes in for those Sundays can imbibe a special house made Bloody Mary. Not just the Browns fan. The spacious front room is also available for other events as well, with a small deposit.

Many of the traditions that made Taggart’s Pub a beloved staple in the community have been carried over to the Patterson Pub. The staff is as friendly as I remember and the atmosphere is just as comfortable. They are making their own inroads into the community, embracing their neighborhood and offering a friendly barstool and pint to anyone who stops there.

The Patterson Pub, located at 970 Patterson Rd Dayton, OH 45419, is open 3 PM to 2:30 AM daily. You can call them at (937) 296-9476 and follow them on their Facebook page for more information about events and specials at the pub!

Dayton Musicians Remember Music Fan With Special Benefit Show

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Live music has a special way of bringing people together. Some refer to it as a scene, community, tribe, family, or simply “my people.” It’s a genuine form of self and group identity, that has a unique place in music lover’s hearts. When one of our people is tragically taken from us, it’s a ripple effect of sadness throughout the scene.

Sarah Vesey was a bright spot in the Dayton jam band family. She was a dedicated fan and friend to many in the area. This summer, Sarah died tragically, at the young age of 29, leaving behind a grieving family, parter and young son. Friends rallied together to pull together Stay Strong for Sarah Benefit Show to both remember Sarah, and help her family.

Sami Love, one of Sarah’s friends, and the organizer of this benefit described how the show came together. “Sarah’s passing has deeply affected us all. I wanted to put together this event in memory of Sarah. For all of us near and far to get together and show love for her, and for one another.”

The evening starts early, with music starting at 6:30pm, during the dinner hour with acoustic jams from Sway. A portion of dinner sales this evening will be donated to the family to help offset medical costs, and set up a college fund for Sarah’s son. What a great reason to stop in for food and fun with friends!

Music will be running on all evening, till 2:30am, with awesome local jam bands including Cheezcake starting at 9:30pm, followed by Subterranean and The Ohio All Stars. What an incredible line-up! This is certainly a don’t miss evening! Everyone will be feeling the love at this show!

While you’re there, check out the awesome raffle items they have gathered from various restaurants, tattoo parlours, music festival passes, art work, and surprise baskets donated from national to regional bands. Seriously, cool stuff they’ve gathered!

How to Go?

  • Stay Strong for Sarah benefit show at Jimmie’s Ladder 11
  • Thursday July 7th, 2017. Music from 7pm – 2:30am
  • Donations graciously accepted any time. Cover charge of $5 after 10pm.

 

Dive Bar Thursday: King’s Point Pub

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Feast thine eyes on King’s Point Pub!

Heated discussions have occurred among friends about what constitutes a dive bar. The issues of size, food served, the motivation for going, and even spirit selection has been part of the debate. One thing that came out over time was the bar’s location. It had to be part of a neighborhood or some other small community. That could make it a biker bar, a Bengals bar, or a bar that most of Belmont are seen in after the end of a shift. Certain areas of town just do not lend themselves well to having a dive bar. They are too busy. In the center of it all. A place to go for the whole city to party, not just the people who live in that area. Some bars, like the Time Out Cavern, require a little extra effort to go there. There is one that, if you are not paying attention, you will miss as you head down Wilmington Pike. And King’s Point Pub is not a place you want to miss.

King’s Point Pub (4660 Wilmington Pike, Kettering, OH 45440) is a well-hidden prize located in the nearly empty Wilmington Height’s Shopping Center. Unless you know it is back there, it may be difficult for you to find. Based on the times that we have been there, plenty of people are finding their way back to this incredible space. The patio that greets you is a fair size, with plenty of room to sit outside and enjoy warm summer nights. Possibly with a game of cornhole. Yes, the patio is really that big. If cornhole is not your game, head inside to the roomy interior for plenty of dart boards and a few pool tables. Summer dart leagues are just starting to get tossing and keep an ear out for the cornhole leagues to begin. They currently are playing some Luck of the Draw games on Sundays at 2 PM, where you put your name into the hat and hope you get a good partner. They have been known in the past to hold the cornhole games inside if there was bad weather. Yes, the interior of the bar is really that big. One their neighboring party supply store shut down, they purchased the space and added it to their pub. There are a few pool tables inside for good measure.

Beer? Cocktails? What is your pleasure?

They have a healthy respect for the craft beer scene but are not going to deny a person a cold Coors Light if that is what they are after. They have eight taps ready and waiting for thirsty patrons, typically split between old favorites and the new brews in town. It is not a surprise to those in the know when they host a tap takeover by a brewery every now and then. If you prefer your beer out of a bottle or a can, they have a broad selection of those as well. Their liquor selection does not offer any incredibly rare or unusual. It does offer anything you could possibly want to drink while playing any one of a number of games there. While they do not have a cocktail menu to look over, most of the bartenders there have their own specials they offer to patrons. And if you get hungry from all that dart throwing and bean bag tossing, Troni Brothers Pizza is right next store and ready to help! They offer pizza (of course), wings, sandwiches, salads, and desserts. They will even deliver it to their neighbors! That is some service.

One of the many factors that make a dive bar popular is being an integrated part of their community. The people there know who is coming in and when, and what drink to have ready for them when they arrive. They give back to the people who keep their doors open in ways that go beyond just discounts on

Darts for charity? King’s Point may be open to that idea.

drinks or a place to come when difficulties roll in. They support the causes that are important to the patrons. The staff gets to know the patrons, and the patrons get to know each other. King’s Point Pub is no different. They have a board of all the causes they have helped, including the Wounded Warrior Project (it is a bar that very much appreciates the military), being a top fundraiser for Alzheimer’s Awareness, and various other projects around the community. Speaking with patrons and employees alike, everyone is very friendly and helpful, willing to chat with strangers about this little home away from home. They also support national and local bands by hosting them at their venue (did I mention the place is large?), with acts like Mad Hatter and Full Frontal showing up to entertain.

Taking a few steps off the beaten path is worth it. That is where you find all of the most interesting things. King’s Point Pub offers a great atmosphere with delightful pizza and entertainment for everyone in the family. Whether you go to root on THE Ohio State Buckeye or try your luck at corn hole, this is a pub that is well worth the effort to get to know.

Five For Drinking – The Negroni

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Classic Negroni

The classic Negroni.

For many a bartender, there is a certain allure to the Negroni. It could be the of the simplicity of the recipe: one part gin, one part sweet vermouth, and one part the bitter Italian liqueur Campari. These basic proportions make the cocktail ripe for experimentation. Which means that the gin can be replaced with bourbon or champagne. The Campari can be replaced with any wide variety of bitters, from Aperol to Zucca. Every time you change one of the ingredients, you change the overall flavor profile. While the Negroni will always stand on its own among the classic cocktails, the variations it has inspired have covered the flavor and color spectrum.

The best legend of the creation of the Negroni starts with an Italian nobleman fleeing to America after having a child out of wedlock. Count Camillo Negroni spent some time in the American West, becoming a cowboy and enjoying the lifestyle of a rancher. When everything was a little calmer, he returned to his native country to settle back into his old lifestyle. He sauntered into town one day, looking for a stiff drink. Thinking the popular Americano (1 oz. sweet vermouth and 1 oz. Campari, topped with soda water) was not going to satisfy his thirst, he asked the bartender to substitute the soda water for gin. It was at that point a legend in the cocktail world was born. And like many other cocktails of the era it was mostly lost after Prohibition, showing up once bartenders started to discover the old recipes.

The one ingredient that takes some getting used to.

Several years ago, Imbibe Magazine declared the first full week of June Negroni Week. It is a celebration of this vintage cocktail all over the country, as well as an opportunity for bars and bartenders to give back to their community. For every Negroni purchased at participating venues, a portion of the proceeds is donated to the charity of their choice. You can see the participating venues every year by searching by city or zip code on the Negroni Week website. This year in Dayton, there is one venue celebrating the week: Doctor Doodles is also offering the classic version to help Muttville. If you are planning to spend some time there this weekend, make sure you order one to help either of these amazing pet charities.

What is a classic Negroni, you may ask?

Negroni

1 oz. gin
1 oz. sweet vermouth
1 oz. Campari

Glass: Cocktail or Rocks
Ice: None
Garnish: Orange peel

Pour all of the ingredients into a mixing glass over ice. Stir until the mixture is chilled, then strain into the glass. Twist the orange peel over the cocktail, then drop it in and serve.

If you are a fan of gin and all of its herbal glory, this is an amazing cocktail. The bitter Campari is an acquired taste, but it is blunted by the gin and the sweet vermouth. Start here, and work your way forward…

Not a fan of gin? Bourbon fits just as nicely in this cocktail.

Old Pal

1 oz. bourbon
1 oz. sweet vermouth
1 oz. Campari

Glass: Cocktail
Ice: None
Garnish: Orange peel

Pour all of the ingredients into a mixing glass over ice. Stir until the mixture is chilled, then strain into the cocktail glass. Twist the orange peel over the cocktail, then drop it in and serve.

For those of you that enjoy whiskey more than gin, here is the Negroni variation for you. Swap the herbal gin for the smooth bourbon, and it is like you have an entirely different cocktail. If rye is not your thing, exchange that for bourbon and make yourself a Boulevardier. Either one is fantastic.

Negroni Sbagliato

1.5 oz. sparkling wine (stay in Italy and hit the Prosecco)
1.5 oz. sweet vermouth
1.5 oz. Campari

Negroni Sbagliato

Bubbles make everything better, right?

Glass: Champagne flute
Ice: None
Garnish: Orange peel

Pour the Campari and sweet vermouth into a mixing glass over ice. Stir until chilled, then strain into the champagne flute. Then top off with the champagne and GENTLY stir. Twist the orange peel over the cocktail and drop in.

It is said that while making a Negroni, a hapless bartender accidentally grabbed an open bottle of champagne instead of the gin and poured it in. Instead of dumping it, he served it to his customer and this star was born. I want to see the bar set up that has the gin ANYWHERE close to the champagne. It seems like a stretch. However, the word sbagliato in Italian means “bungled” or “mistaken”, so there could be an

Unusual Negroni (by Charlotte Voisey)

1 oz. Hendrick’s Gin
1 oz. Lillet Blanc
1 oz. Aperol

Glass: Cocktail
Ice: None
Garnish: Orange peel or Grapefruit peel

Pour all of the ingredients into a mixing glass over ice. Stir until the mixture is chilled, then strain into the cocktail glass. Twist the orange (or grapefruit) peel over the cocktail, then drop it in and serve.

If the boldness of the original Negroni is too much for you, Ms Voisey developed a cocktail that dials back all of the intensity. Henrick’s is an amazingly light gin, more cucumber and rose petal than juniper. The Lillet is not very vermouthy, and the Aperol, while bitter and orange, is not as intense as the Campari.

Dark and Smooth Cocktail

A little sweeter, but still with some herbal zing.

Dark and Smooth

1 oz. dark rum
1 oz. sweet vermouth
1 oz. Jägermeister

Glass: Rocks
Ice: None
Garnish: Orange peel

Pour all of the ingredients into a mixing glass over ice. Stir until the mixture is chilled, then strain into the cocktail glass. Twist the orange peel over the cocktail, then drop it in and serve.

I will never stop experimenting with one of my favorite spirits, Jägermeister. I have been fiddling with this concept for a while, and finally figured out that the dark rum is the answer. The cocktail leans to the sweeter side for a Negroni, but the herbal notes hit the nose and the palate at the end.

There are many, many more variations of the Negroni out there. If you want to really see the variety of what people have done with the basics of the cocktail, buy the book Negroni: Drinking to La Dolce Vita, with Recipes and Lore by Gary Regan. It has dozens of recipes, some that stay true to the original, some that stray so far off that it is hard to call them a Negroni. But all of them stay true to the idea of the slightly bitter, herbal original.

Find your favorite cocktailing venue and order a classic. They are a delight on the palate, even though for some it is an acquired taste. And if the original is not to your liking, you can see there are many ways to modify it into something you will enjoy. Count Negroni did it over a century ago, and look how well that has turned out. Cheers!

Flip Your City, Flip Your Life

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Live here, work here, play here.

And Invest here?

That’s the goal of Real Estate U

Headquartered in Beavercreek, Real Estate U is a nationally recognized Real Estate training company. The owners, Bonnie and John Cochran, lifelong residents of the area, are taking the knowledge from their online products and getting hands on with local Real Estate investors…and those who want to be.

rei class

John Cochran gives tips and systems to new Real Estate Investors

The Miami Valley is one of the most affordable areas in the country for Real Estate and that’s a blessing and a curse. Yes, it’s affordable to live here, but it also makes us a target. We’ve all seen the ads for “house flipping classes” where you visit a ballroom in a hotel, hear the spiel and run to the back of the room for a chance to buy a few spots in a class. It may start out as $97, but it quickly turns into thousands. And who does that go to? A salesman who flies in for the day, and is gone once your payment is in hand.

But it doesn’t have to be that way. The folks over at REU live by the “talk about it, be about it” mantra. They are taking what they have learned in a few decades in the business and sharing it with the community for free. FOR FREE. Tried and true lessons learned in THIS MARKET, Dayton and surrounding areas, with partners equally as familiar with the Gem City.

Who is this for?

Veterans – were you a lifer? One and done? Either way, you have the attention to detail, honor and commitment to successfully use the tools given to you. REU has your second career all lined up.

Newbies -You want to buy the block,  you watch a lot of HGTV and it really seems like something you could do, right? Don’t run willy nilly into buying up properties – they’ll show you the ones worth looking for and how to find them.

Experienced investors – you’ve flipped a few houses, maybe won, maybe lost, but you know the process. Real Estate U will hand you best practices and proven systems to grow your business with no guesswork.

Contractors – you’re already doing the work why not keep it all in house?

SAHMs – you could pay a fee to sell a product for a commission (we all love leggings and want to lose weight) OR you can take the same amount of time (about 10 hours a week) and create serious generational wealth without having to recruit.

The entrepreneurial spirit, the “I can’t even deal with the college profs”, the young and hungry and live-by-my-own-rules crew – you make your own schedule and dictate your own income. Time freedom which leads to financial freedom is right at your fingertips.

And yes, the “I’m so over this 9 to 5” group. We see you and we want you to know there is life beyond the breakroom. (but grab that snackpack of Little Debbies from the vending machine on your way out!)

So, mark your calendars for June 15. The staff at Real Estate U is creating a workshop / networking group experience that you’ll want to attend.

Imagine a setting where the curious could interact with the experienced. Where they take stock of everyone’s unique abilities and allow them to shine. Somewhere that REAL ideas, REAL methods, REAL proven systems were implemented in REAL TIME – with everyone leaving knowing something new and making some money along the way.

And everyone there is on the path to becoming a successful Real Estate investor.

  • You don’t need money to invest.
  • You don’t need good credit.
  • You don’t need to know a single thing about how to flip a house.
  • You just need to want to learn. That’s it.

Priceless and also price-less. Real Estate U is putting this together in Dayton for free.

Save your spot today: http://bit.ly/DYTJunegroup it’s free!  

Find them on fb: REUDayton

Double tap them on Insta: @therealestateu

 

The real Estate U training center in Dayton Ohio