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Dayton Independent Film Festival is This Weekend

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The Dayton Independent Film Festival (DIFF) celebrates regional filmmaking and stories from Midwestern filmmakers who offer their DIFFerent and unique vision. This weekend they host their 3rd annual Film Festival at The Neon Movies.  The festival will showcase films from established professionals, emerging filmmakers, and students.  Celebrating impactful stories from narrative, documentary or animation— everyone has a story to tell, DIFF cannot wait to showcase these films and filmmakers.

Melanie Reindl, Director of Programming festival explains that this started out a class a the Univeresity of Dayton and has now grown into a 3 day festival that runs Fri, Sept 23- Sun, Sept 25th.

Opening night on Friday starts with a welcoming ceremony for all our filmmakers on the Neon patio  followed by a local shorts 7pm screening,  from documentary to drama—that celebrates stories and filmmakers from Dayton that includes:

SHATTERED: A City Under Pressure
Directed by UD Documentary Class

What was once a booming city of innovation and creation has seen its once former glory eroded by time and circumstance. Called home by bright minds such as the Wright Brothers, Paul Laurence Dunbar, and John H. Patterson, Dayton, OH was a homing beacon for creative minds with a drive to better themselves and their community.

Paul Laurence Dunbar: An American Poet
Directed by Kane Alan Stratton

Dayton, Ohio 1903. A world renowned poet delivers the incomparable verse, “I know why the caged bird sings.”

Stowaway
Directed by Benjamin Hollinger

Sam, a financially struggling car thief, and his partner Mia find a toddler in the back seat of the car they just stole. Now Sam must decide between protecting the toddler or giving up the car that could save his family from financial crisis.

SIA
Directed by Ashlei Shyne

”Sia” is a poetic short film that follows Nola & Sia, a Black queer female couple whose vibrant life together is upended when a global pandemic threatens to tear apart their entire world.

Analog Rainbow
Directed by Henry Czerwonka

A young woman plagued by her past gets a chance to revisit her earliest memories and discovers her childhood may not have been as carefree as she remembers.

Nonfiction Shorts
Saturday kicks off with nonfiction shorts from 1-3pm:

Safe Haven
Directed by Faith Marsh

Monica Kelsey turns her own past into a passion for saving abandoned babies.

A Near Constant and Escalating State of Panic
Directed by Jason Polevoi

A young father grapples with the pressures of modern parenthood during a 10-day COVID-19 quarantine.

The Year That Passed

Directed by Grace Simmons

The Year That Passed (2019) is an animation about loss, addiction and togetherness. Chronicling three successive, deeply traumatic events, this narrative explores grief as a recurrent process with its own unique setbacks and silver linings.

Memoria(l)

Directed by Ian Kelly

This beautifully animated documentary takes us back to Memorial Day, 1937, when Chicago police killed ten striking steelworkers. How do we remember this history?

Never Again Para Nadie


Directed by Anna Feder, Dan Frank, Justin Reifert

A peaceful demonstration in August, 2019 coordinated by a Jewish-led organization, Never Again Action, attempted to shut down a for-profit prison holding ICE detainees, only to be met with violence by correctional officers. In the smallest and poorest city in Rhode Island, citizens took a stand and learned how difficult it is to challenge the status quo.

Sons of Toledo


Directed by Monty Cole

After receiving the early morning news of his younger brother’s murder, a mourning barber pushes through the muddy waters of grief to find the courage to do the impossible – give his brother one last cut.

Fiction Shorts 1

Followed by Fiction Shorts from 4-6pm

Last Chance Moms

Directed by Mandy Fabian

Two best friends in their 40s, one pregnant and unexpectedly dumped by her man-child boyfriend, the other unable to get pregnant despite countless efforts, decide to raise a baby together.

Snow Globe & The Cat

Directed by Rick Page

‘Twas the Day after Christmas, when all through the house, ex-wife Lydia returns to get her revenge on Frank. Poor bastard.

Got Your Back

Directed by Mitch Hudson

In the 1960s, a group of high school buddies decide to climb their local water tower… Based on a true memoir, and produced in loving memory of Steve Cruea and Jim “Turd” Swanson.

Don’t Worry About It

Directed by Melissa Kong

After her father’s death, a young woman’s obsessive-compulsive disorder spirals out of control. She enters an intensive therapy program, where she must learn to deal with his death and OCD before it takes over her life.

A Balanced Breakfast

Directed by J.W. Cox

A neurotic, workaholic father sets out to find his favorite childhood cereal during an unexpected day off with his 13 year old daughter.

The Guitar Thief
Directed by Miguel Lepe Jr

Two mariachi players cope with rent increases, a changing neighborhood and a stolen guitar.

Fiction Shorts 2
And then another block of fiction shorts from 7-9pm:

Wild Card

Directed by Tipper Newton

Two strangers are brought together by a video dating service.

Gone Gray

Directed by Spaceship, Koura Linda

An under cover Special Agent finds herself in an interrogation room, facing off an interrogator determined to get her to give up. She will never let go of what she wants the most – and she will let no one stand in her way to get there.

One Foot In

Directed by Eric Schabla, Jack Whaley

A pair of eccentric graverobbers navigate the land and their tenuous kinship in search of the score of a lifetime.

Recuperación de los Caídos (Recovery of the Fallen)
Directed by Curtis James Matzke

A lone man wanders a barren landscape on a foreign planet, salvaging items off of bodies that have fallen to the surface. Recuperación de los Caídos was shot and produced in the Canary Islands under the advice and mentorship of director Werner Herzog.

We Are Nowhere

Directed by J. Cody Spellman

After aliens abduct her husband, Minnie receives a visit from a mysterious man in black.

Last and First Woman
Directed by Adnan Siddique

A passionate astronomy student disengages from her college curriculum upon the discovery of an illusive artifact.

Special Presentation: Dayton High School Shorts
Sunday the festival concludes with a special free presentation of shorts from local Dayton High School students from noon – 1:30pm:

The lineup includes:

Catcalling by Leigha Strozier
Reflections of Myself by Makayla Curington
Deceiver by Skylar Tucker
Valentine’s Day by Caleb Earick
Mortem by Danaysha Woodard
Barber by Danaysha Woodard
Keys by Joshua Molina Guiterrez
Cat by Caleb Earick

Get tickets for the Dayton Independent Film Festival online or at the Neon’s  box office. The  2022 Winning films have been announcned:

Best Local Film: Analog Rainbow
Best Student Film: Stowaway
Best Fiction Film: Don’t Worry About It
Best Documentary Film: Memoria(l)
Best Innovative Technique: Sons of Toledo

 

Virtual Grand Opening Set For The Hub at Dayton Arcade

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The University of Dayton and the Entrepreneurs’ Center will host a public grand opening for The Hub Powered by PNC Bank at the Dayton Arcade. At 95,000 square feet, it is among the largest university-anchored innovation hubs in the country, including shared and private office spaces, meeting rooms, conference areas, pop-up retail opportunities, learning labs and classrooms. The virtual event will be at 5:30 pm on Thursday, March 4th.

 

“We could not be more excited for the Hub to become a reality,” said Eric F. Spina, president of the University of Dayton. “This is a ‘triple play’ for the University of Dayton in that it provides excellent learning opportunities for our students; facilitates greater collaboration and connection between our faculty, research staff and students and the greater Dayton entrepreneurial ecosystem; and will help reinvigorate a key part of our city’s downtown and the historic Arcade that was vacant for decades. This truly is a great day for UD and for Dayton.”

“The Hub is visible proof that Dayton’s long heritage of innovation remains vibrant, healthy and growing,” said Scott Koorndyk, president of the Entrepreneurs’ Center. “In one space, we’ve brought together the support, talent and energy that small businesses and entrepreneurs need to be successful. We are thrilled to join our partners at the University of Dayton and PNC Bank in making the Hub a catalyst for the future of our region’s innovation economy.”

“Our goal in supporting the Hub was to foster collaboration, which is the key to success,” said David Melin, PNC regional president for Dayton. “The Hub Powered by PNC Bank will serve as a catalyst that will merge creative ideas from students, entrepreneurs, businesses and the community to create a stronger future for the region.”

The virtual grand opening will include videos with entrepreneurs and UD faculty introducing Hub spaces, such as:

  • Innovation Hall, where the Entrepreneurs’ Center offers comprehensive business and commercialization support services, along with its Small Business Development Center; and the University has offices for the L. William Crotty Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership, a satellite office of the Greater West Dayton Incubator to drive equitable access and inclusion, as well as others;
  • UD’s studios for painting, printmaking, photo and graphic design for students and faculty;
  • UD’s The GEM, a non-traditional learning space that connects the University and city with a focus on community-centered approaches to social innovation;
  • A representative workspace that showcases the environment that entrepreneurs and small businesses can find at the Hub; and
  • A café with a menu that will be intentionally curated by the Greater West Dayton Incubator to feature underrepresented entrepreneurs.

The event also will feature a panel discussion with Dayton Mayor Nan Whaley, City Manager Shelley Dickstein, PNC’s Melin, developer Cross Street Partners CEO Bill Struever, University of Dayton’s Spina and the Entrepreneurs’ Center’s Koorndyk. The grand opening will conclude with a blessing and a ribbon-tying ceremony to symbolize the coming together of all the partners and stakeholders that have made the project possible and will be involved in the Hub going forward.

Vince Lewis, president of The Hub

Local entrepreneurs and startups are currently working in the Hub or making plans to move in during the coming weeks. Additionally, university classes will begin in the space as public health conditions allow beginning in fall 2021.

“The Hub Powered by PNC Bank could fundamentally shift how universities and community partners collaborate in support of startup ecosystems,” said Vince Lewis, president of The Hub Powered by PNC Bank and director of UD’s Crotty Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership. “I think the thing that I am most excited about is the opportunity for University of Dayton students to be down here, connected into the startup ecosystem in a space where they’re working with students from all over campus, working with local entrepreneurs and other local businesses. All that connection and opportunity is really what we envisioned years ago when we first started down this down this path. You can’t understate the impact that this project has on the city, especially right now. Since UD signed our letter of intent with The Entrepreneurs Center back in 2017, the Arcade has been a project that people say is never going to happen. And that’s been driven into the psyche of the community. The Hub opening and getting off the ground really resonates the feeling that Look, things are happening, things are moving forward! This will have a huge impact on the psyche of the city and how we feel about downtown.”

Additionally, UD and the Entrepreneurs’ Center will host community programming. This will include the University’s Flyer Pitch competition, one of the largest business plan competitions at the collegiate level; small business acceleration programs; the Dayton Arcade Entrepreneur Academy; summer internships; and opportunities to participate in other competitions and programs.

To join the grand opening, visit Youtube.

Breaking News: Montgomery County Fairgrounds Has A Buyer (or Two)

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1600px-exposition_hall_montgomery_county_fairgroundsWe’ve heard through a source that a deal has been struck to sell the Montgomery County  Fairgrounds for a reported sum of $15 million dollars.  The 2017 fair will continue at the current location.  Plans beyond that have not been revealed

Earlier this week The City of Dayton, Montgomery County Commissioners and the Montgomery County Agriculture Society rejected two offers that had been submitted from Miller-Valentine Group and Indiana’s Thompson Thrift saying neither proposal addressed all the required components from the RFP.  This was Miller-Valentine’s second at bat for acquiring the fairgrounds. Back in 2014 they entered into an exploratory agreement to purchase the land, but after the 9 month holding deal never executed the contract. montgomery_county_fairgrounds_coliseum

Another source tells that Premier Health and the University of Dayton will partner to buy the land.  Montgomery County Administrator Joe Tuss just met with Premier Health this afternoon.

 

UPDATE:  A couple hours after we broke this story, this Joint Statement Regarding the Montgomery County Fairgrounds Property was released.

On behalf of Premier Health and the University of Dayton, please see the following statement:

“As neighboring institutions, the University of Dayton and Premier Health have long collaborated on community and economic development initiatives. As neighbors to the Fairgrounds, we have an interest in how it is ultimately developed and that it complements the growth and positive momentum in this important area of our community.  We are in discussions with the City and County on how we might help support redevelopment of this community asset.”

“Tailgate Buffet” at Vinny’s for Last U.D. Home Game

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Sat. Mar 5th, Doors Open 4:30pm on Dryden Rd

Hey basketball fans.. Vinny’s Bar and Grill on Dryden Rd is offering up their “World Famous Indoor Tailgate Buffet” this Saturday evening from 5:30pm -7:30pm!   All you want local sausages, broasted wings and so much more…

As always, Vinny’s is the place to pre-party, before University of Dayton Flyer Men’s Basketball games.

The Food Adventures Crew will be on hand for what they call an annual “Munch Madness” Food Adventure event.  Also on hand will be Rick from “Ricks Tropical Delight” cooking up  Burgers and Sausages on the Big Green Egg Ceramic Grill.

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY ON SATURDAY’S EVENT:

WHAT: “MUNCH MADNESS INDOOR TAILGATE BUFFET PARTY”

WHERE: VINNY’S BAR AND GRILL on 2205 Dryden Rd, in Moraine

WHEN: SATURDAY, MARCH 5th:   Doors open 4:30pm – Buffet begins 5:30pm

WHY: UNIVERSITY OF DAYTON FLYERS LAST HOME BASKETBALL GAME OF THE SEASON – Pre-party

PRICE: $12 per person for the Indoor Tailgate Buffet – or you can order off the menu a la carte

BUFFET MENU INCLUDES:

Locally made Hot and Mild Polish Sausages, and Bratwursts

— BROASTED CHICKEN WINGS: Trays of wings with sides of bbq, mild and hot sauces

—  HOT & MILD POLISH SAUSAGES: Locally made and grilled on the Big Egg Grill

— BRATWURST: Local ones, grilled on the Big Green Egg Ceramic grill by Rick

— HOMEMADE ROAST BEEF:  Vinny’s secret recipe

— SIDES: (probably Green Beans)

— SALAD:  with various homemade dressings

— SOUP – the homemade soup of the day is always a slam dunk

Don’t want the buffet?  No problem, Vinny’s has a full menu and will be featuring 1/2 pound and 1/4 pound Angus Burgers, grilled on the Big Green Egg.   Rick will also be grilling up Chicken Breasts

All You Want Broasted Wings, 3 Different Sauces

Join us for some great sports grub – Saturday Night’s alright for biting !

Vinny Nyhan and his staff will be fixing some delicious food, do your part and come out !

If you have tickets to the game, this is the place to pre-party.  If you don’t have tickets, feel free to pre-party, then stay and drink some brews while watching U.D. end the regular season with a win.  GO FLYERS !

Win every day by following Food Adventures with Chef House, The Big Ragu and Hungry Jax on Facebok, by clicking here.  Enjoy our weekly articles featuring Dayton’s best food scoop, right here on Dayton Most Metro!

 

The Event

2205 Dryden Rd, Moraine, OH 45439

Vinny – the Big Guy

Food Adventures Crew

Drinks and more

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rick for Ricks Tropical Delights on the Ceramic Grill

Broasted Wings

Broasting Machine

Steaming Sausages

Homemade Soup

Inside Big Green Egg

Vinny and his Parents

Vinny and Rick

Great food

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Out Front

IndoorTailgate Buffet

Chicken wings and more

Big Green Egg – Ceramic Grill

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

UPDATE – MOMMY and IT FOLLOWS Are Opening at THE NEON!

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mommy_ver2Hello Everyone,

Earlier today, I made an announcement about WOMAN IN GOLD opening at THE NEON on April 1…that plan has changed.  The Weinstein Company has made big changes to their release strategy for WOMAN IN GOLD.  After confirming April 1 as its opening date for us, they have yanked it away (from us and numerous other cinemas across the country).  At this time, we don’t know if we will be able to play the film when it finally becomes available in our market.  That said, I have made the appropriate changes to this week’s newsletter below.  Thanks for your understanding – this is very frustrating news (not to mention a terrible waste of time, energy and our valuable on-screen marketing).

We are officially overbooked at THE NEON, and we need to get moving with some titles.  Though LEVIATHAN is one of the best reviewed films we’ve played in a long time (and audiences were in awe this weekend), it didn’t perform well for us…so Thursday will be your last chance to catch it at THE NEON.  On Friday, we will open 2 new films.  Xavier Dolan’s MOMMY will screen once a day starting Friday, and IT FOLLOWS will get a full run (we haven’t played a horror film in a long, long time – this one is getting great reviews).  All that said, we’ll keep bothSECOND BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL and WHAT WE DO IN THE SHADOWS for another week.  For this week’s remaining showtimes (they’re different than the upcoming week – which are listed below), please visit our website at www.neonmovies.com

Synopsis for MOMMY: From Wunderkind Xavier Dolan comes this year’s Oscar submission from Canada – MOMMY. Dolan has won numerous awards at Cannes and around the world for his 5 feature-length films, and he just turned 26. “A feisty widowed single mom finds herself burdened with the full-time custody of her rambunctious 15-year-old ADHD son. As they try to make ends meet, Kyla, the peculiar girl across the street, offers her help. Together, they find a new sense of balance, and hope is regained.” (taken from Roadside Attractions) This is a strictly limited engagement with just a handful of screenings, and we’re one of a few cinemas in Ohio to play it. Don’t miss it! Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

Synopsis for IT FOLLOWS: It’s been a long time since THE NEON has screened a horror film, and fans on Facebook seem enthusiastic for the engagement of this critically acclaimed film…let’s see if that excitement really translates to solid box office numbers. “For 19-year-old Jay (Maika Monroe), fall should be about school, boys and weekends out at the lake. But after a seemingly innocent sexual encounter, she finds herself plagued by strange visions and the inescapable sense that someone, or something, is following her. Faced with this burden, Jay and her teenage friends must find a way to escape the horrors that seem to be only a few steps behind.” (taken from RADiUS/Weinstein Co.) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

Don’t forget that tomorrow, Wednesday, March 25, The Alumni Chair in Humanities at UD will present special screenings of Stanley Kubrick’s classic film PATHS OF GLORY – starring Kirk Douglas. Dr. Tony Smith will introduce the award-winning film, and the screenings are free for UD faculty, staff and students. Tickets for the general public are available for a suggested donation of $5. Seating will be on a first come, first serve basis. The movie will screen at 7:30 and 9:30. The presentation of this film is part of the World War I cohort project at UD.

LUNAFEST is Back! On Sunday, April 12 at 3:00, The Dayton Women’s Rights Alliance will present the popular touring festival of short films by, for about women! “Established in 2000 by LUNA, the makers of the Whole Nutrition Bar for Women, LUNAFEST connects women, their stories and their causes through film. This traveling film festival spotlights the work of a diverse array of talented women filmmakers with intelligent, funny and thought-provoking themes. Equally important, LUNAFEST can be used as a ‘fundraiser-in-a-box.’ helping hosts raise money for nonprofits in their own communities, as well as the Breast Cancer Fund. 100 percent of all net proceeds are donated to charity. LUNAFEST’s main beneficiary, the Breast Cancer Fund…Tickets are $5 for students with valid IDs and $10 for general admission. Lunafest is sponsored by The Dayton Women’s Rights Alliance – a feminist organization whose members work to promote and protect the rights of women of all classes, races and cultures. We seek to foster education and activism, and we work with community organizations challenging sexism, racism, homophobia, ageism, classism, poverty and other manifestations of injustice.” (taken from DWRA press notes) Click this LINK to read more about the films.

The Dayton Jewish International Film Festival is preparing another incredible slate of films for you. Screenings will kick off later in April, and the official website will be available soon, but if you want to take a peek at some of the titles, visit The Jewish Community Center’s Event Page by clicking this LINK.

Every year when I come back from The Toronto International Film Festival, people ask me how hard it is to get tickets and participate. While anyone can go to TIFF (you don’t have to be an industry insider), so many people don’t realize that there’s a huge, incredible, well-respected film festival just a few hours away. The Cleveland International Film Festival has grown and grown over the years, and I’ll be attending the final 5 days of the festival – staring tomorrow. Check out the official website to see just how impressive it really is.

I hope you’ll help keep THE NEON nice and busy in my absence, and I hope to see you soon when I get back.

Thanks for your continued support.
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, Mar. 27 – Thursday, April 2:

THE SECOND BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL (PG) 2 Hr 2 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 2:10, 7:30
Monday – Thursday: 2:40

WHAT WE DO IN THE SHADOWS (NR) 1 Hr 26 Min
Friday, Saturday: 12:15, 9:50
Sunday: 12:15
Monday – Thursday: 8:00

MOMMY (R) 2 Hr 19 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 4:40
Monday – Thursday: 5:10

IT FOLLOWS (R) 1 Hr 40 Min
Friday & Saturday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:15, 7:30, 9:45
Sunday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:15, 7:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:10, 5:30, 7:50

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)

April 3 – WILD TALES

April 10? – WHILE WE’RE YOUNG
April 17 – TRUE STORY
April ? – RED ARMY
TBD – GREY GARDENS
TBD – WILD TALES
TBD – ’71
TBD – FAR FROM THE MADDING CROWD

Golden Globe Winner LEVIATHAN Opens March 20th at THE NEON!

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leviathan_poster1Hello Everyone,

Even though WHAT WE DO IN THE SHADOWS and THE SECOND BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL are performing well enough to stick around, we’re still going to throw something new into the mix for a handful of screenings. LEVIATHAN is one of the best reviewed films we’ve shown in a long time, and it was the winner of this year’s Golden Globe for “Best Foreign Language Film.” For this week’s remaining showtimes (they’re different than the upcoming week – which are listed below), please visit our website at www.neonmovies.com

 

Synopsis for LEVIATHAN: “Kolia lives in a small town near the Barents Sea in North Russia. He has his own auto-repair shop. His shop stands right next to the house where he lives with his young wife Lilya and his son from a previous marriage. Vadim Shelevyat, the Mayor of the town, wants to take away Kolia’s business, his house and his land. First he tries buying off Kolia, but Kolia cannot stand losing everything he has, not only the land, but also all the beauty that has surrounded him from the day of his birth. So Vadim Shelevyat starts being more aggressive.” (taken from Sony Classics) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

Last weekend’s special screening of TWO HEARTS AS ONE was a huge, sold-out success – puncuated with a big round of applause. Because of the demand for tickets, The Turkish American Society of Dayton has added another screening this Sunday at 3:00. Tickets are $10 each and can be purchased now at our box office. “This powerful film – one of the most expensive productions in Turkish film history – is based on a true story. Starting in 1940’s Soviet Russia, and continuing into 1990’s, this is the story of four hearts which couldn’t be stopped by distances and years. …Presented in Turkish, with English subtitles.” (Taken from press notes) Check out the trailer below. The film is lovely!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=154LpFZZBnI

Don’t forget that THE REEL PADDING FILM FESTIVAL is just a couple days away – this Thursday at 7:30. Click the official link or visit our box office to get your advanced tickets. (And I just got the inside scoop. Attendees over 21 will be treated to a free beer!)

On Wednesday, March 25, The Alumni Chair in Humanities at UD will present special screenings of Stanley Kubrick’s classic film PATHS OF GLORY – starring Kirk Douglas. Dr. Tony Smith will introduce the award-winning film, and the screenings are free for UD faculty, staff and students. Tickets for the general public are available for a suggested donation of $5. Seating will be on a first come, first serve basis. The movie will screen at 7:30 and 9:30. The presentation of this film is part of the World War I cohort project at UD.

Every year when I come back from The Toronto International Film Festival, people ask me how hard it is to get tickets and participate. While anyone can go to TIFF, so many people don’t realize that there’s an incredible, well-respected film festival just a few hours away. The Cleveland International Film Festival has grown and grown over the years, and I’ll be attending the final 5 days of the festival next week. That said, the festival starts tomorrow evening. Check out the official website to see just how impressive it really is.

Thanks for your continued support.
See you soon,

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, Mar. 20 – Thursday, Mar. 26:

THE SECOND BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL (PG) 2 Hr 2 Min
Friday, Saturday: 11:10, 1:40, 4:15, 6:50, 9:20
Sunday: 12:15, 5:30, 7:50
Monday & Tuesday: 2:40, 5:10, 7:40
Wednesday: 2:40, 5:10
Thursday: 2:40, 5:10, 7:40

WHAT WE DO IN THE SHADOWS (NR) 1 Hr 26 Min
Friday, Saturday: 12:10, 2:20 7:20, 9:30
Sunday: 12:10, 2:20 7:20
Monday – Thursday: 3:15, 8:00

LEVIATHAN (R) 2 Hr 20 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 4:30
Monday – Thursday: 5:15

TWO HEARTS AS ONE (NR) 2 Hr 6 Min
Sunday: 3:00

PATHS OF GLORY (NR) 1 Hr 28 Min
Wednesday: 7:30, 9:30

COMING SOON:

(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)

March 27 – IT FOLLOWS
April 1 – WOMAN IN GOLD
April 10 – WHILE WE’RE YOUNG
April ? – RED ARMY
April ? – MOMMY
April ? – WILD TALES
TBD – GREY GARDENS
TBD – WILD TALES
TBD – ’71
TBD – TRUE STORY
TBD – FAR FROM THE MADDENING CROWD

Meet Our New Intern Jack, A Dayton Civic Scholar From UD

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Dayton Civic Scholars: Sustaining the Relationship

civicscholarThey could tell you about a downtown non-profit or two, or even maybe where the best restaurant in the Oregon District is. They have a heart – and mind – for service, and civic engagement is second nature. Who are they? They are University of Dayton’s own Dayton Civic Scholars, and they are on the frontlines to bridge the relationship between the university and the city itself. And, they are building full force.

The Dayton Civic Scholars (DCS) is a scholarship program sponsored by the university’s Social Science Department that falls under the umbrella of the Fitz Center for Leadership in Community. A three-year program, DCS takes up to fifteen students each year as a cohort. Respectively, these cohorts come together starting their sophomore year to learn about the city of Dayton, and the university’s history with the local area.

The program starts with a brief summer orientation that includes team builders, Dayton Dragon games, and information about the city. Each cohort then proceeds to take a mini-course each Friday to gain a foundation in local politics and organizations. Additional mandatory academic classes include “Urban Politics” and “Leadership in Building Communities” to gain more specific knowledge about how cities – specifically, Dayton – function.

In their junior year, they create a capstone project that embodies the cohort’s collective interest as well as the needs of the outside community. For example, the 2014 cohort has regenerated a garden outside Cleveland Elementary. They have used this resource as a vehicle for classes about health, reading comprehension, and basic math skills, among other after-school activities and lessons. Of the program, International Studies major and 2014 cohort member, Shannon Lees, says that, “It’s been a wonderful way to connect with the Dayton community.”

Meanwhile, the 2015 cohort has recently implemented a literacy program aimed at international elementary-aged refugees. Hosted at Fairview Elementary, the cohort plans and executes after-school activities every Friday that hope to improve student academic and social performance. Francis Flannelly, Operations and Supply Management major and 2015 cohort member, says, this capstone project has been, “…the perfect way to give back to a community that has helped shape us all.”

Moreover, semester-long internships are mandatory to the DCS program. These experiences allow for direct hands-on experience with the city. These internships are based on individual interest, and can range from working with the City of Dayton Water Department to helping in a homeless shelter. Marina Locasto, Masters in Public Administration student and graduate assistant in the Fitz Center, says of the internships: “It helps shape the student into a civic leader, which can benefit any community.” Through these experiences, each member has an individual relationship with the city itself.

Dayton Civic Scholars see not just what is, but what could be. They proactively seek and act upon the current resources and potential in the city through enabling the “Learn, Lead, and Serve” mentality the university heralds. It’s not a program. It’s a perspective.

 

Jack

My name is Jack Raisch, and I am a current junior Psychology major (with a concentration in Writing) at the University of Dayton. A native New Yorker, I like to think I say “yes!” to life
(except the times my mom told me to say “no.”). One of
those “yes” moments emerged when I was given the
opportunity to write for Dayton Most Metro.

From this internship, I would love to hone my writing
and explore the electric city of Dayton itself. Dayton
is a hotbed of action with a fluid platform for the exchange
of information, ideas, and interest.  Thus, I strive to seek
the people, places, and programs that make that so – and
have a little fun discovering it.”

– Jack Raisch

Sweet Sixteen Makes UD-Dayton Relationship That Much Sweeter

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The link between University of Dayton basketball and the Dayton community is a phenomenon I feel only few communities in this country have.

I’m an alumnus and a lifelong fan, but my life hasn’t been long enough to appreciate the full scope of this relationship. I know bits and pieces of the 1950s and 1960s powerhouse programs, with NIT wins (when the NIT mattered) and numerous successes in the NCAA tournament. My earliest recollection — probably from my mom and dad who are lifelong season ticket holders — is the triple overtime loss to Bill Walton’s UCLA in 1974. Johnny Davis was on that team, and he was my first UD basketball hero. From there, the memories build, from the teams of Jim Paxson (although Erv Giddings was my guy) to Roosevelt Chapman (my personal, all-time favorite) to Negele Knight (I graduated the same year) to Brian Roberts and Chris Johnson (the most under-appreciated Flyer great, in my opinion).

Every once in a while, a UD team comes out of nowhere, exceeding pre-season expectations and capturing the imagination and hearts of our city. Before this year’s 2013–2014 edition, it was the 2008–2009 team that took the city on a ride. And when I witness the excitement that permeates Dayton, I really can’t help but reflect on why it matters so much. I think it comes down to three things:

1.       UD loves Dayton — I can’t imagine there are many universities that care about their city more than UD. When you consider the investments they make, the partnerships they build — both for-profit and not-for-profit — and the image building they do on behalf of this city, it’s astounding how much UD has invested in making Dayton a strong, vibrant community.

2.       Their basketball teams reflect the character of the city — I was at the final regular season game from the 2008–2009 season and I’ll never forget how the team ran up and down the aisles of the stadium after the game, thanking the fans for their support. Like most UD teams, they were composed of three-star recruits the big programs didn’t want, but they consistently outworked, out-hustled and beat more talented teams, like West Virginia, in the first round of the NCAAs. This year’s 2013–2014 team is very similar. Undersized and under-appreciated, they simply outwork bigger, faster, more talented teams. Did you see that defensive effort against mighty Syracuse? Dayton is a small, hard-working and important city in the Midwest. While not home to four- and five-star corporations, Dayton continues to be a hotbed of hard-working, hustling three-star businesses that consistently outperform glitzier competitors.

3.       Things are kept in perspective — Having attended UD from 1986 to 1990, I had the privilege of witnessing the magical 1989–1990 season where UD advanced to the second round of the NCAAs. While there were certainly big-time players on that team, the players and coaches were part of the campus fabric. The players weren’t NBA-hopeful, one-and-done players, but real kids who worked on homework and projects with other students. They attended the same parties and just hung out like the rest of us. It was really fun to watch all the senior basketball players walk up to get their degrees at graduation. This is a town that values real people with real lives. Too much glam might make Daytonians a little uncomfortable; I doubt a one-and-done style basketball program would work in this town.

It’s this connection that makes it so much fun when UD basketball catches lightning in a bottle like they have this year. It’s hard to imagine too many cities enjoy the kind of relationship the university and its basketball team have forged with Dayton over many decades. And if we take out Stanford Thursday, well, the bond just gets that much tighter.

So wear your UD T-shirt to all your meetings this Thursday. Work a little harder to outperform your big city competitors. Then find a good spot to enjoy this year’s edition of the UD-Dayton tradition do the same to Stanford.  #GOUD. #BeatStanford. #EliteEightHereWeCome.

 

eifert-560x326Guest Contributor: Chris Eifert, principal, TriComB2B

Chris’ 15 years of experience in sales, product management and new product development bring a practical, hands-on perspective to clients’ marketing requirements. Chris held several marketing and product management positions at industrial and technology companies where he implemented marketing programs for new product launches as well as existing products and services. Chris received a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Dayton.

 

Food Adventures gets Shish-Faced + ** $20 GIFT CERTIFICATE GIVEAWAY**

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Click to Enlarge: The Mother of all Shish Wraps

You ain’t gonna believe this shish.  WANT A $20 GIFT CARD TO SHISH WRAPS??  THEN COMMENT BELOW ON THIS STORY.  A WINNER WILL BE CHOSEN AT RANDOM !

When you think of Brown Street, you often think of people who are sh%# faced.   But alas, we aren’t talking about those people.  We are talking about people who are literally Shish Faced.  These people are stuffing wraps in their mouths and can’t get enough of the great flavor.  Want to get Shish Faced too?  Then head to 1200 Brown Street, the home of a locally owned eatery called Shish Wraps.   This family owned business has capitalized on the assembly line technique.  Think of it as a Mediterranean version of Chipotle, and better too !   What you can expect is affordable, savory food, with a Lebanese influence.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Opened 8 months ago by first generation Lebanese-American brothers Simon and Tony Abboud who are both University of Dayton Graduates and Centerville grads.

— The focus is a healthy, fresh, tasty twist on Lebanese and Mediterranean food.  Their motto is: “Live Long. Eat Healthy. Eat Shish.”

All meat is cooked over a rotisserie flame: You think you’re Hot Shish ?

— Menu items come from family recipes, a love of cooking, and results of experiments over the years.

— The main attraction are burrito like wraps featuring one of 3 meats: Chicken, Beef or Kafta (beef links blended with onions and spices)

— The meat is cooked over fire, on rotating kabob skewers for a char-grilled taste.  No buttery, oily soaked meat on a flat grilling surface means HEALTHIER for you !

— Vegetarian? No problem.  The falafel (fried chickpea fritters) and vegetable wraps are great meatless alternatives.

 

Big Ragu loves Shish Wraps, so this isn’t his first rodeo.   He told Chef House and Huongry Jax about it and now they are Shish heads too !   Now we’re gonna tell you some shish …

 

MUST EATS:

— CHIPS & HUMMUS :  The creamy, garlic goodness of this hummus is amazing.  This is seriously one of the most flavorful hummus plates in town, and it is homemade on site!

— SHISH FRIES:  The Big Ragu will go on record as saying these are the best fries he has ever eaten.  The fries are dusted with garlic, olive oil and a generous heap of feta cheese.

Kafta Bowl

Kafta Bowl – spicy beef links over hummus, lettuce, pickles and tomatoes. MUST EAT !

— SHISH BOWL: You can choose chicken, or falafel but Jax says GET THE KAFTA BOWL !  Kafta is ground beef mixed with parsley and spices and it is some good shish.  Served with hummus, Mediterranean pickles, tomatoes and lettuce, this is a healthy dish that tastes damn good.  Be warned, you will be craving future visits for this stuff.

— SHISH WRAP:    We love these.  The menu says build your own, but may Big Ragu suggest the Chicken Shish Wrap?  It comes with an incredible cabbage mix and load it up with your favorite veggies! Get Shish sauce or Tzatziki sauce on it which are must eats in themselves.  An added bonus is that the pitas are lower calorie than other wrap places.  You can choose your own meat, sauces and veggies so style it your way.

Honorable Mention: The Tabouli – a healthy choice that is freshly chopped in-house.  It is seasoned with the perfect amount of lemon juice and served with pita slices.

Make sure you check out our gallery below with some incredible photos from our many visits to SHISH WRAPS… Our fans know we never post a story on a one time visit, this is not a “drive by.”  You deserve better.

Now is a perfect time to get some of this good food as the UD Basketball season gets into swing.  If you are downtown or near the U.D. campus, visit SHISH WRAPS, for a quick bite. This place is definitely “the shish.”

We realize everyone needs to get a little Shish faced now and then.  For more info on menu and hours, visit the Shish website HERE.   Visit 3 Shish Heads, Food Adventures, on Facebook and like them HERE !

HOLY SHISH !  We got a $20 GIFT CARD GIVEAWAY TO SHISH WRAPS !   Comment below on this article, tell us why you deserve the Shish, and fill out the entry form and  we will choose someone at random ![form 55 “DMM Contest Entry – Generic”]

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Jimmie’s Ladder 11: Great Food in a Historic Firehouse

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Jimmie’s Ladder 11 on Brown Street. A “hot time in the old firehouse”

What better place for a Food Adventure than a historic Dayton Firehouse?  But atmosphere isn’t everything , you gotta have good eats too.  Jimmie’s Ladder 11 at 936 Brown St. is one of Dayton’s best examples of a great menu in a great venue.  The restaurant is located in what used to be an old city firehouse back in the days when the engines were run by horse drawn carriages.  Dayton Fire Department memorabilia lines the walls of this beautiful dining area.  Antique wood floors and walls throughout the building develops a warm, nostalgic feel.  But The Food Adventure Crew knows, the decor is just the beginning.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Jimmie’s Ladder 11 is located in a historic Dayton Fire Department Building built in 1892.

— Family owned restaurant with a stellar service staff.

— Owner Jimmie Brandell worked at the Upper Krust for 17 years honing his restaurant skills.

— Wide variety of menu choices from Burgers and Sandwiches, to rare Upstate New York favorites

Creole Cheesecake is not a Dessert, it is a Savory Appetizer

— Nice selection of craft beers on tap and in bottles.  They even feature a fire hydrant tap.

— Live Music on weekends, showcasing eclectic local bands

— Private Party Loft available for special events or parties

— Outdoor dining area overlooks a bustling Brown Street

Let’s dive into the menu, with FOOD ADVENTURE’s MUST EATS for JIMMIES LADDER 11:

Grab a fork and follow us…

Paisano Pasta Chips – Fresh Deep Fried Pasta, “Italian Nachos”

CREOLE CHEESECAKE – Probably one of the best appetizers in Dayton.  This unique menu item is not a dessert.  It is a casserole type dish served in slices.   The “cheesecake” is stuffed with Andouille Sausage, Shrimp, smoked Gouda, Cream Cheese, Onions, and Peppers.  Slightly “fiery,” but mostly rich and tasty.

NEW ORLEANS GUMBO – Made from scratch daily, this hearty gumbo is simply amazing.  Bursting with Chicken, Shrimp, and Andouille sausage, this is a “must eat” with the perfect heat.  We are addicted and after one cup, you will be too.

VODKA RIGGIES- You won’t find this Upstate New York  favorite anywhere else in Dayton.  Jimmie’s wife, Sue is from Utica, NY where this dish originated.  Creamy tomato sauce is blended with vodka, chicken and rigatoni, then finished with peppers.  There is some spiciness to this pasta plate, but we won’t have to hose you down afterwards.  One of our favorites for sure.

NEW YORK STYLE CHEESECAKE –  One of the best we have ever eaten.  Again made from scratch, this is a cross between the Upper Krust Cheesecake and the ones you find in New York City.  We love this stuff.  Order a piece for a rich, sinful taste of dreaminess.

LADDER 11 SANDWICH – The kitchen starts out with either a hoagie roll or rye bread.  They add some Romanian style Pastrami and Corned Beef.   Top the whole thing off with the house-made, hand-cut Cole Slaw.   The final touch is a drizzle of house-made Russian Dressing.  Are you licking your chops yet?

Honorable Mention:

The Hamburger – You might hear fire truck sirens in your head, because for 6 bucks, this platter is a steal.

Tom Turkey – A throwback to the Upper Krust sandwich.  You cant go wrong with turkey and creamy house-made cole slaw chopped that day.

Paisano Pasta Chips – Could be described as “Italian Nachos.”  Homemade pasta, deep fried and topped with Italian Sausage, Onions, Peppers, Mozzarella and Provolone.  The concoction is finished off with a delicious Asiago cream sauce.

New York Style Cheesecake – Unbelievably good

Jimmie’s Ladder 11 is a Dayton original.  No trendy stuff here.   The Ladder 11 staff has brought together good, affordable food and fun surroundings.   They even have great salads and vegetarian choices.

If you have not had a chance to visit this establishment, take some time to check it out.  We frequent this place because we love the menu and beer selection.  The service is always spot on as well.  Got a hungry stomach?  Put that fire out by visiting Jimmie’s Ladder 11.

Want some more “hot” scoop from some “fiery foodies”?  Then “like” Food Adventures  on Facebook by clicking HERE.

Browse through our incredible photos below for a thorough look at the menu.  We aren’t a “one dish Trish,”  we write informed stories after trying various menu items during numerous visits.

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Milano’s: A Dayton Food Adventure

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The Atlantic City Italian Sub – Get the baked option with pizza sauce

Atlantic City style subs that would make Snooki proud and Pizza loved by many locals.  This is today’s Milano’s.  But, Dayton Originals like THE FOOD ADVENTURES CREW remember when there was only one Milano’s on Brown Street.   Purists will tell you, the subs tasted better then, because the old ovens were ‘seasoned’ from years of spices burnt into the baking area.  Whether you love the “old school, dirty Milano’s”, or the “clean, modern Milano’s”, you can’t deny that this is one of the most popular eateries in the Miami Valley.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

– Founded in 1969 by Ron Woods and partners after visiting a restaurant in Lima, Ohio named Milano’s.  They loved the food so much, they opened a place in Dayton the next year and decided to name it Milano’s.

– Sold to ThreeWitt Enterprises in 2001, revamped Brown Street location in 2005. Opened 2 more restaurants in 2008 in Beavercreek and Miami Township (St Rt 741).

– All-American style menu with subs, pizza and craft beer selections

– Family Friendly with tableside games and an arcade area that kids enjoy

Little known secret: The Calzones are delicious!

– Great outdoor patio dining area for enhanced fun on good weather days, and it smells better than Atlantic City.

 

MUST EATS:

– Calzones:  A little known fact is that the calzones are great at Milano’s.  Whatever ingredients you get, there is plenty of mozzarella cheese inside to cope with, so use that marinara dipping sauce.

–  Atlantic City Italian Sub:  Capicola, and 2 types of salami topped with provolone cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, oil, and spices.  There is an option on this sub where they bake the sub and add pizza sauce.  This is what makes the sandwich, so get the baked option with sauce!

– The CSP Sub:  It comes with capicola, genoa salami, and provolone.  It is topped with the usual lettuce, tomatoes, onions, oil, and spices.  so good it will make J-Woww say “Wow.”

– Pizza:  We think the sauce is tangy and tasty, so no matter what the toppings, you will have yourself a good “Situation.”   The crust is made from scratch, daily.  Milano’s touts the fact that they were voted favorite pizza in Dayton in 2011.  Try it for yourself and let us know what you think.

– Meatball Sub: Have yourself a meatball day and dive into this saucy little number.   This sub is filling, fun, a tad messy, but worth every bite.

Honorable Mention: The generous order of Garlic bread with Cheese is as big as the Trump Taj Mahal.   The Cheesesteak sub is also worth a try.

Milano’s  has decent side salads that go well with any main event.  They also have a reasonably priced kids menu.  Be warned, this place gets busy during peak lunch and dinner times.

 

Just in the mood for a beer?  The inviting bar area always has some ‘off the wall’ choices on tap or in bottles.  It is a great place to unwind with a cold one.

For the record, the Big Ragu, whose last name is Milano, has nothing to do with ownership of the restaurant.   It doesn’t stop him from playing tricks on the wait staff with his I.D. from time to time.  He wishes he did own it, because the food at Milano’s turns The Food Adventure Crew into a couple of Jersey teens.  Please browse through our photo album below for some amazing pics from our Food Adventures to Milano’s.

If you are one of the few who hasn’t tried Milano’s, or you are new to the Dayton area, take a night and check this spot out.  Go for our “must eats” and see if you enjoy their Atlantic City tastes.

Daytonians, sound off below!!  Are the Milano’s subs better now or did you like the old ovens on Brown Street?  Any other comments? Please share them with us!

Want to see more buns?  Then “like” FOOD ADVENTURES on Facebook HERE !

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UD Students Focus on the River as Art

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There’s a lot that I like about the Activated Spaces program happening downtown.

There’s the obvious – Art in empty storefronts makes downtown look more welcoming and friendly.

There’s the more artsy – It’s a chance to see the diverse skills and cool work from some of our talented local artists.

But there’s something more – Especially this round, which invited the artists to highlight favorite neighborhoods or community assets, I got to see Dayton through the eyes of the artists and I got 15 new perspectives on what’s important in our region. Here at DaytonMostMetro.com we talk a lot about all the good stuff happening in the community, so I wasn’t surprised to see people lovin’ on their neighborhoods and gardens and people and parks. But what drew my attention (for this article at least) is what did surprise me. And that’s Dayton getting some love from some UD students. Too often we talk about how UD is in a bubble, but this round of Activated Spaces features a great group of UD students who are engaged in our region through volunteerism, sustainability, and now – art.

So, since they’re giving Dayton some love, I say we send it right back and give some attention to what these UD students are doing for our community, for the river, and for Activated Spaces.

Artists Susan Byrnes and Dennie Eagleson worked with a group of students – “River Stewards” from the University of Dayton Rivers Institute – to photograph a variety of images during the Institute’s annual two-day trip through Dayton. These picture spotlight the river system that the group believes “helps us define our sense of place” in the community. Highlighting the area between Island Metropark and the Steward Street Bridge, with a focus on the bridges themselves, this installation offers a unique perspective of Dayton by presenting views of the bridges from the viewpoint of a kayak in the river and from along the bicycle path.

Eagleson is the Artist-in-Residence for the River Stewards; last year they created a sound installation and the students discussed what they saw and how they experienced the river. This year, Eagleson wanted to focus on something more tangible and structural as they experienced the river through a visual art project.

About 10 students shared six cameras on the trip; each student was assigned a specific bridge to feature, but additionally they had a great time snapping away and documenting the experience. The group used a plastic lens camera which allows for a narrow area of focus and it becomes fuzzy or darker as it moves to the edges. Each bridge is represented in a composite; some camera glare, the use of photos from both up close and far away, and the overlapping pictures as they’re framed hint at the experience of enjoying the bridges just as much as a visual representation of the structure.

Byrnes discussed the beauty of the bridges through the corridor and how the trip allowed the students to see them from a unique perspective. She says, “It was interesting for us to see the difference between the old and new bridges and understand the details that got translated from the old bridges.” Eagleson adds, “When you drive over a bridge, you don’t know what the true structure is. The bridges in Dayton are so beautiful, we really enjoyed seeing the shapes and how the bridges are made.”

You too can enjoy the structures and the experience of Dayton’s bridges – stop by the River Stewards’ display at the Main Street Garage. Officially launching on Urban Nights. And be sure to visit the many other displays that represent Dayton’s assets through the eyes of Dayton’s artists.

More info at Activated Spaces or on Facebook.

About the River Stewards
From the University of Dayton Web site: The Rivers Institute administered by the Fitz Center for Leadership in Community at the University of Dayton is an initiative to bring key partners in Dayton and surrounding communities together to promote our watershed while preserving and protecting its resources. Students, faculty and staff from the University are working with community members, stakeholders, and local organizations to build community around our rivers. The Rivers Institute’s work focuses on promoting learning and undergraduate research, bringing UD to the river, and bringing Dayton to the river.

About Susan Byrnes
Susan Byrnes is an artist, art administrator, and art educator. She holds a BFA in photography from Syracuse University, and an MFA in sculpture from Eastern Michigan University. She exhibits sculpture, installation, and performance work nationally. Susan also produces arts-based broadcasts for college radio, and produces sonic art and audio stories. Born in Rome, NY, she resides in Dayton, OH and serves as director of ArtStreet, a multi-arts learning facility at the University of Dayton.

About Dennie Eagleson
Dennie Eagleson is a documentary and fine art photographer and educator. She was an Associate Professor of Photography at Antioch College until it closed in 2008. Since then, she has taught photography and documentary studies at The Nonstop Liberal Arts Institute in Yellow Springs, and at the University of Dayton as an Artist in Residence in the fall of 2009. Her fine art work has focused on place and artifacts of people’s lives, using alternative imaging tools such as pinhole and plastic lens cameras. Eagleson’s documentary work has investigated alternative families, life and culture in Cuba and Nicaragua, local and sustainable agriculture, and art and music as a empowerment tool in community building. Eagleson recently developed skills in radio production as a Community Voices Trainee. Her piece on a writing program in the Springfield, Ohio Youth Detention center was aired as a part of Film Dayton’s Screenless Screening program.

A&E on a Budget: UD Presents Free Arts Performance

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University of Dayton's Ebony Heritage SingersThe University of Dayton will be taking over the Schuster Center on Tuesday, April 5th, for their annual Celebration of the Arts performance. Where else can you experience eighteen different arts ensembles in under 2 hours? And even better – it’s free!

The evening will feature performances by University of Dayton music, theater and dance students as well as visual arts displays in the lobby. Burt Saidel, arts reviewer for The Oakwood Register, and Georgie Woessner, general manager of WDPR-FM, will serve as masters of ceremonies. The evening begins at 6:30 pm in the Wintergarden with a visual arts display and pre-show entertainment. The evening will continue at 8 pm in the Mead Theatre. The event is free, but tickets are required and can be reserved online.

Don’t forget to check out other wallet-friendly options on UD’s campus:

The University’s annual LitFest kicks off with poets Kathy Fagan and Kwame Dawes on Friday, April 1, starting at 7:30 pm in Sears Recital Hall. Attend the opening program for free, or register for a weekend full of workshops and readings.

ArtStreet’s Friday Film Series presents Howl (4/1), Elephant in the Living Room (4/8) and Exit Through the Gift Shop (4/15). Film screenings start at 9 pm and are free and open to the public.

The Theatre Program will present Smoke on the Mountain, April 1-3 and 7-9 at Kennedy Union’s Boll Theatre. Directed by Gina Kleesattel, this musical promises to deliver an uplifting evening of “singin’ and witnessin”. Tickets are $12; call (937) 229-2545.

The Department of Music offers a number of free performances during April; visit http://calendar.udayton.edu or http://arts.udayton.edu for a complete schedule.

UD is certainly not the only campus with free or cheap arts and entertainment. All of the colleges and universities in the Dayton region offer a wide variety of events, and many are open to the public. From the art galleries of Sinclair Community College to the Artist Series at Wright State University, there is something for everyone!

Coming Up in Dayton Theatre

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HRTC: The 39 Steps

Human Race Theatre Company: The 39 Steps

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2010 – TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2010

This is the week for theatre, evidently… looking at the show dates below, you could see a different show during every performance time on every weekend day, and still not be able to catch everything that’s up. Six shows are opening this weekend, and those could keep you busy from now until my next onStageDayton update, let alone trying to fit in closing shows or special events!

So, what are you waiting for? Go get tickets to one (or two or all) of these great shows! After all, there are plenty to choose from…

Another Openin’, Another Show

…SHOWS OPENING SOON

The Sugar Witch

DAYTON THEATRE GUILD

The Story: Dark family secrets are revealed and unusual passions are Sugar Witchignited as a family is forced to confront madness, truth, and the destructive legacy of racism, while the spirits of the dead walk the dark Florida Swamp, haunting the hearts of all who reside there.

Dates: October 22, 23, 29 & November 5 at 8:00 pm; October 30 & November 6 at 5:00 pm; October 24, 31 and November 7 at 3:00 pm

Tickets: DTG Box Office or 937-278-5993

More Information: http://www.daytontheatreguild.org/, DaytonMostMetro Event Calendar

The Diviners

UNIVERSITY OF DAYTON

The Story: In a small Depression era farming community, a boy with the gift of divining water develops a friendship with a drifting, charismatic but disillusioned preacher; when the townspeople embrace the drifter as the answer to their prayers, the choice leads to a tragic climax.

Dates: October 22-23 and 28 – 30, 8:00 pm; October 24, 7:00 pm, in the Kennedy Union Boll Theatre

Tickets and More Information: Kennedy Union box office, 937-229-2545

Messiah on the Frigidaire

BEAVERCREEK COMMUNITY THEATRE (Edge of the Creek)

BCT Spitfire GrillThe Story: After the image of Jesus appears on a trailer park refrigerator, a frenzy of conflict, communion, and good old fashioned commerce is set in motion, as three friends are forced to come to grips with their lowly status in the caste system of the rural south.

Dates: October 22 – 31, Fridays & Saturdays at 8:00 pm and Sundays at 3:00 pm

Tickets: Box office, 937-429-4737

More Information: Beavercreek Community Theatre

The True Story of the Three Little Pigs

TOWN HALL CHILDREN’S THEATRE

The Story: When Piggsylvania’s highest court puts him on trial, things don’t look so good for Alexander T. Wolf when TH: Three Little Pigseveryone from judge Prudence Pig to the court reporter is rooting into the truth about his so-called terrible deeds! In this fresh musical adaptation of the familiar story, audience members (ages 4+) decide the way the story ends.

Dates: October 22 – November 7, 2010: Fridays at 7:00 pm, Saturdays and Sundays at 3:00 pm, with a special family matinee on Saturday, October 23 at 11:00 am.

Tickets: Town Hall Theatre or 937-433-8957

More Information: Town Hall Theatre: The Three Little Pigs, DaytonMostMetro Event Calendar

Flash: A New Musical

CLARK STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

The Story: In the premiere of this new musical by CSCC professor and Springfield resident Dan Hunt, Ed, a seemingly normal man, revisits his past when all the highs and lows of his entire life flash before his eyes.

Dates: October 29-31 & November 5-7

Tickets: 937.328.3874 or Clark State

More Information: CSCC: Flash, Flash: the Musical official site

The 39 Steps

HUMAN RACE THEATRE COMPANY

HRTC: The 39 StepsThe Story: Four performers (and 150 characters), an innocent Englishman caught in a deadly ring of spies, and a pair of handcuffs that won’t seem to come off make this combination of Alfred Hitchcock and Monty Python “one of the funniest shows to hit the stage this millennium”!

Dates: October 21 – November 7, 2010

Tickets: HRTC Box Office

More information: Human Race Theatre Company, DaytonMostMetro Event Calendar

…SHOWS CLOSING SOON

Once On This Island

SINCLAIR COMMUNITY COLLEGE

The Story: Ti Moune, a peasant girl, rescues and falls in love with Daniel, a wealthy boy from the other side of the island; when he is returned to his people, the fantastical gods and rulers of the island guide Ti Moune on a quest to test the strength of her love against the powerful forces of prejudice, hatred, and death. (And, ETC/onStageDayton’s very own David Brush directs this musical!)

Dates: October 15 – 23, 2010

Tickets: Sinclair Box Office, (937) 512-2808 or (937) 512-2076

More Information: Sinclair: Once On This Island, DaytonMostMetro Event Calendar

Moon Over Buffalo

PLAYHOUSE SOUTH

The Story: In this farce set in 1953, after rumors begin to swirl that a famous Hollywood director will be auditioning fading acting couple George and Charlotte, misunderstandings ensue and merriment begins.

Dates: October 15 – 23; Fridays and Saturdays 8:00 pm, Sunday 2:00 pm

Tickets: Box Office, 888-262-3792

More Information: Playhouse South, DaytonMostMetro Event Calendar, DMM feature

Part of it All

…AUDITIONS AND CASTING CALLS

In the Spotlight

PLAYHOUSE SOUTH

Auditions: October 25 & 26, 2010 at 7:00 pm, at the Clark Haines Theatre, 3700 Far Hills Dr.

Performance: December 10, 2010

The Basics: Featuring the talents of dancers, singers, actors, and performers of all ages, this show highlights PHS’s 50th Anniversary/2010 season while giving a taste of what’s to come in 2011.

More Information: 888-262-3792, Playhouse South, and DaytonMostMetro Event Calendar

Ravenscroft

DAYTON THEATRE GUILD

Auditions: November 1 & 2, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. at the Dayton Theatre Guild, 430 Wayne Ave.

RavenscroftPerformances: January 7 – 23, 2011

Directed by Debra Kent

The Story: In this comedy about deception and the nature of truth, when Inspector Ruffing is called to a remote English county manor house to investigate the death of Patrick Roarke, he becomes involved in the lives of five alluring and dangerous women who lead him through an evening of contradictory versions of Patrick’s demise, including ghosts, skeletons, and much more than he bargained for.

More Information: Dayton Theatre Guild: Ravenscroft

Christmas Belles

DAYTON PLAYHOUSE

Auditions: November 1 & 2, 2010, at Dayton Playhouse, 1301 Siebenthaler Dr.

Performances: December 17 – 19, 2010

Directed by Wade Hamilton and Brian Sharp

The Story: A church Christmas program spins hilariously out of control in this Southern farce about squabbling sisters, family secrets, a surly Santa, a vengeful sheep and a reluctant Elvis impersonator.

More Information: Dayton Playhouse: Auditions

One Short Day

…SPECIAL EVENTS FOR THE THEATRICALLY MINDED

The Second City: Fair and Unbalanced

THE VICTORIA THEATRE ASSOCIATION

The Basics: The Second City’s Fair & Unbalanced takes unbridled comic pleasure in the Second City: Fair and Unbalancedfoibles of our politicians, celebrities and even our significant others. No institution escapes the satiric eye of The Second City – from the blowhards of the Beltway to the Hollywood elite. Ripped from the stages of Second City’s legendary theatres in Chicago and Toronto, The Second City’s Fair & Unbalanced improv-based sketch comedy is a hilarious ride through present day America.

Date: October 23, 7:30 pm

Tickets: Ticket Center Stage, (937) 228-3630, or (888) 228-3630

More Information: Victoria Theatre Association, DaytonMostMetro Event Calendar

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Would you like to submit theater news for DaytonMostMetro.com’s onStageDayton features?  Email Shane, Dave & Katherine at onStageDayton@gmail.com

~KN

Katherine Nelson is a senior theatre major at Cedarville University who focuses on performance, playwriting, and stage management. She’s the Literary Intern with locally based Encore Theater Company, where contributors Shane Anderson and David Brush also work. The local theater company recently moved into the new arts collective space in the Oregon Arts District, along with Zoot Theatre Co & Rhythm In Shoes. Encore Theater Company has a mission to help develop new works of musical theater, most recently Next Thing You Know and The Proof, two new musicals in development.

Brooklyn Percussion Ensemble to Perform at UD

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So Percussion, a contemporary music group based out of Brooklyn, has brought their eclectic style to the University of Dayton campus this week.  This unique percussion ensemble will offer a free workshop and jam session tonight at the ArtStreet amphitheatre, from 7 – 9 pm. And for the whole nine yards, get your tickets for Thursday’s concert, to be held at UD’s Boll Theatre at 8 pm. Tickets are $15 general admission; $10 for seniors, students and University of Dayton alumni, faculty and staff; and $5 for University of Dayton students. Tickets are available in advance through the University of Dayton box office in Kennedy Union at 937-229-2545. The concert is presented as part of the University of Dayton Arts Series.

The ensemble is known for their use of a wide range of materials; in addition to traditional drums and marimbas, anything from steel pipes to hair clippers to dry ice are fair game for their sonic repertoire. In fact, there are currently 300 dowel rods in the ArtStreet office in preparation for tonight’s workshop.  I hear there will even be a cactus featured during the concert. What will they be doing with it? Playing it, of course:

Learn more about So Percussion at http://www.sopercussion.com.

UD Student Breaking Into the Professional Boxing World

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Many young professionals get career ideas from their parents, friends or maybe even school professors. Jose Santana Jr., a senior at the University of Dayton, became hooked on boxing at the age of 15 while admiring boxer Felix Trinidad. It wasn’t until he was finishing up high school at Saint Ignatius High School in Cleveland, Ohio, that he realized he wanted to work in boxing for a living.

Santana (left) with Freddie Roach, trainer of seven-division world champion boxer Manny Pacquiao

His dream in working in boxing professionally finally became a reality after his freshman year of college at UD. Taking lessons learned from classes he took freshman year, Santana decided to call a Cleveland radio station to see if any internship spots were available. “The classes I took as a sport management major really taught me how make connections, which sounds easy, but you try picking up a phone and calling a business executive who has no idea who you are and try to make friends with him,” said Santana. “It can be a nerve-wracking thing to do for an 18-year-old.”

He talked to Antonio Castro, who gave him the job of promotions assistant which entailed booking guests, helping plan the show and answering phones.

After writing for a small boxing web site, Santana was able to put together a portfolio and send it to a bigger boxing web site called SecondsOut, which is based out of London, England. After doing this, he was able to secure a writing position for them last June.

Securing an internship is a very important thing to do for college students and some, like Santana, try and get a head start early. The key time to start really looking for internships for the summer would be in the early spring, as companies are looking to fill positions and get training started before students are out of school. Although some companies still look for interns in the summer, it is best to go out and search actively early and often. I can attest to this as I had applied to more than 15 internships for this summer and was able to get interviews for three by applying early and asking about certain programs.

Even though he has clear connections and a job in Cleveland, Santana says he may need a change in scenery if he wants to move up in the boxing world. “The high profile jobs in the industry are located in Florida, New York, California and Las Vegas, so I may have to move to one of those areas.”

Boxing may not be as popular in the United States as it is in other countries, but Santana and his family still embrace the cultural significance that comes with it. Santana, who is of Puerto Rican descent, would often get together with his entire family to watch big fights, and it was a time to enjoy the fight and spend time with family. “I fell in love with the atmosphere and the sport that way,” said Santana.

Santana also works for Antonio Castro’s boxing promotions company called Warner Promotions, which he was able to get after working with him. “Promotions is difficult work where your money is on the line and you are depending on people buying tickets to make a profit,” said Santana. “If you really want experience dealing with all that, you have to jump right in there and an internship is going to be very beneficial.”

“Get to know people who work in your desired industry. That is huge. They know other people who know other people and soon enough you have a whole tree of connections,” said Santana.