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Things to do in Dayton | Restaurants, Theatre, Music and More

Yellow Springs

New Month- New Menu for Caribbean Inspired Eatery

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Maybe you don’t have time for a trip to the islands, but head out to this Yellow Springs eatery that get’s its inspiration from the island vibes. Caribbean inspired cuisine and exquisite hand crafted drinks and cocktails. 
Here are their new March Features:

Appetizer
Jamaican Beef Patties – A traditonal Jamaican street food. Seasoned and spiced ground beef in a flaky pastry dough. Fried to golden crispy perfection and served with sofrito aioli 10.99

Sandwich
The Cuban Reuben – Ok this isn’t Cuban per se but it rhymed and this is a Caribbean inspired Reuben so bare with us! House made Jerk corned beef, spicy pickled cabbage, melty swiss cheese, sofrito aioli on marbled rye 15.99

Entrees
(Gf)Jerk Corned Beef and Curtido – Our Caribbean twist on an Irish classic. Beef brisket is cured in a Guiness beer brine infused with Jamaican Jerk spices. The slow roasted and finished in our hot and mild jerk sauce. Served with coconut rice and curtido, a spicy Salvadoran pickled cabbage relish. 24.99

(gf)Island Teriyaki Snapper – Wild caught red snapper is pan seared until flaky and tender then glazed with our island inspired pineapple based teriyaki sauce. Served with coconut rice and island slaw. 25.99

Cocktail
Avocado-Jalapeno Margarita – Fresh avocado is muddled with jalapeno and fresh mint. Shaken with tequila, fresh lime juice, orange liqueur and simple syrup . 9.99

Calypso Grill and Smokehouse

1535 Xenia Avenue
Yellow Springs, OH, 45387

+1 937-767-9000
Open daily 11am – 9pm

Burning Down The (Fire)House

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Dave Chappelle brings laughter, community at new comedy venue

It was a bad night to be Brian Housh, but a good night to be Dave Chappelle.

Yellow Springs’ most famous – or depending on your take on some of his feelings about certain communities and politicians, infamous – resident performed two sold out shows this week at the YS Firehouse. The YS Firehouse is the former Miami Twp. Fire Station on Corry Street, a mere few blocks away from his Chappelle Shop where dedicated fans can (and have) buy the comic’s merchandise in droves.

In much the same manner of his shows during the pandemic, entry into the YS Firehouse came with several rules that can make you feel like you’re entering a secret comedic society. Patrons paying the $90 ticket entry (before fees) were advised to leave all phones, smart devices, purses and anything else that could house a recording device in the car. Yondr bags and a coat check ensured none of the evening’s affair would be transmitted without Chappelle’s OK, the release form notifying all those entering the show would be recorded, however, by Chappelle’s team. Where that footage ends up remains to be seen; what was clear, however, was everyone in attendance was there to see what would transpire. 

Chicken wings and french fry baskets were available just outside the venue courtesy of Let’s Eat Food Truck, which, based on constant presence of both inside the showroom, apparently lives up to its motto that it’s “food be slappin’.” It was clear aesthetics were carefully considered in the construction of what looked to be the 200-250 seat venue. As opposed to traditional tables, the inside of the YS Firehouse featured rows of chairs arranged in an elongated “C” shape around the stage, perhaps in honor of the venue’s owner. The natural brick gave the building a fancy lodge feel, the lighting and wood floor working in concert to create exactly what Chappelle wanted: A vibe where all those in attendance felt like they were part of the coolest party in town.

With DJ Fatty Lumpkin spinning classic golden era hip-hop pre-show – it’s hard to imagine another Ohio venue where Grand Puba and Camp Lo receive extended playtime in 2024 – the building was abuzz upon entry. As the clock rolled past 8 p.m., stagehands began taping down cords and cables; a woman brought two stools on stage, one featuring the comedian’s signature pack of cigarettes and an ashtray he would remember he could use later in the show. 

Despite all pre-show’s hush-hush nature, Wednesday night’s show didn’t feel anything like a secret society akin to Katt Williams recently alluded to on Shannon Sharpe’s podcast. Chappelle would, however, mention the Ohio native/cornfield show alumni several times throughout the night. 

Taking the stage just before or right at 8:30 p.m., Chappelle swiftly maneuvered through a litany of topics hosting the show, doing time before introducing the night’s three other performers. In addition to Williams, topics included Chappelle’s purchase of Yellow Springs property, Donald Trump … And the debut of a Chewbacca-like voice for a specific segment of a community that has voiced displeasure with him. The events leading up to/following the aforementioned Yellow Springs council member’s removal as Village President would bear the brunt of the comic’s vitriol Wednesday night, Chappelle at one point (genuinely?) apologizing for the repeated blows. 

It was one of a few moments of the night that makes the comedian so conflicting for some: While the laughs came fast and furiously from the audience, determining the line between what is simply joke fodder and his true feelings about Housh might still be blurred for Chappelle himself. Would anything Chappelle said Wednesday change his critics’ thoughts about him? Probably not. Was it clear to anyone in attendance that he can be a comedic powerhouse in his element? Most definitely.

While some in attendance were clearly hoping for quote-unquote “big” name comics to round out the evening’s bill, those concerns were alleviated as the night played out. DJ Cipha Sounds – who is quick to let you know he’s “very famous in New York” – has clearly dedicated himself to stand-up comedy as much as he did hip-hop during his days on WQHT-FM “Hot 97.” At times, Sounds’ set almost felt like watching a developing version of a young Chappelle himself, especially when re-assuring all the straight white males in attendance he knows they’ve had it rough. 

Connecticut native and BET/TV One alumni Marshall Brandon would take the stage next, weaving intricate wordplay with stories about sex, parenting, family and relationships. While Sounds brought a high energy model to the stage, Brandon was much more of a relaxed orator, delivering jokes in a way that felt like Bob Newhart-meets-Franklin Ajaye-with-just-a-touch-of-middle-finger attitude underneath.

 

Closing out Wednesday’s show was musical guest Issa Ali, engaging the crowd in traditional block party fashion with two songs, “Levels to This” and “Clap to This.” 

The building with the big “C” on its side in the heart of downtown Yellow Springs has now opened for business. Wednesday night’s sold out affair would seem to make a strong case it may be for quite some time.  

The Yellow Springs Sunflower Field is in Full Bloom

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The Yellow Springs Sunflower Field will be in full bloom for abut the next 10 days.  Come out and enjoy the delightful natural beauty of these flowers while you can!

The Sunflower Field is located just north of Yellow Springs at 4627 U.S. Route 68. Parking for this event is located at the Tecumseh Land Trust. There are two grass lots available. We ask that our patrons do not park along the State Route.

HOURS OF OPERATION

Saturday, September 30: 10 am – 7 pm
Sunday, October 1: 10 am – 7 pm
Friday, : 4 pm – 7 pm
Saturday, September 30: 10 am – 7 pm
Sunday, October 1: 10 am – 7 pm

CALLING VOLUNTEERS!
But that’s not all – we need your support! The Yellow Springs Chamber is calling on all nature enthusiasts, volunteers, and kind-hearted souls to lend a helping hand. Your donations and time will make this event truly unforgettable. Let’s come together to make a difference in our community and create wonderful memories amidst the golden sea of sunflowers.

Register here to volunteer!

 

Yellow Springs Sunflower Field

4627 US Route 68,
Yellow Springs, OH, 45387

The Sunflower Field is located just north of Yellow Springs on US Route 68. Parking for this event is located at the Tecumseh Land Trust. There are two grass lots available. We ask that our patrons do not park along the State Route.

BREAKING: See Fred Armisen perform LIVE in Yellow Springs

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The inaugural Yellow Springs Film Festival (YSFF) is bringing in the celebrities for their weekend-long festivities. Due to popular demand (sell out) of Fred Armisen’s “In Conversation With…” special event, festival organizer’s have added a special event live music performance “Comedy For Musicians, But Everyone Is Welcome” featuring Armisen.

Armisen has been new touring this new show all over the country, so organizers are thrilled to bring this event to the area. and this will be the area’s debut performance.

The festival also features a kick-off party with Raekwon from Wu-Tang Clan, who is debuting a film he executive produced called “Taking the Groove Back.” There is also a special retrospective of Guided by Voices 40 year career, along with lots of other special film events. Tickets and information for all the festival’s  events can be found at YSFilmFest.com.

HOW TO GO?

When: October 6, 2023

Doors open at 4pm

Show starts at 5pm

General Admission $30

Get festival information here: https://www.ysfilmfest.com/

Get tickets for Fred Armisen show here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fred-armisen-comedy-for-musicians-but-everyone-is-welcome-tickets-72233386904

 

    

 

 

BREAKING: Raekwon of Wu-Tang Clan making opening night appearance at Yellow Springs Film Festival

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Raekwon from Wu-Tang

Yellow Springs Film Festival (YSFF) has just announce their opening film on October 6, 2023 is the Midwest Premiere of award-winning documentary short Taking Back The Groove. The moving portrait of disco legend Richie Weeks’ battle to reclaim the rights to his music and restore his legacy in the wake of the Black Lives Matter movement is directed by Celia Aniskovich (Call Me Miss Cleo) and executive produced by Raekwon of Wu-Tang Clan and trailblazing comedian Russell Peters. A post-screening panel discussion with Weeks, Aniskovich and Raekwon will be moderated by festival Founder Eric Mahoney. Tickets for the event go on sale Thursday, August 24th at 12:00pm EST.

Additional YSFF special events include a conversation with Comedian / Actor Fred Armisen (Portlandia, SNL, Documentary Now); an immersive documentary experience, 32 Sounds, with the director Sam Green and Oscar® winning director Steven Bognar in conversation; and a 40-year retrospective of the band Guided by Voices featuring their seminal documentary Watch Me Jumpstart by Banks Tarver.

Richie Weeks

The Festival program includes documentary features The Cave of Adullam by Laura Checkoway; Rather by Frank Marshall; Citizen Sleuth by Chris Kasick; We Are Fugazi From Washington DC by Joe Gross, Joseph Pattisall & Jeff Krulik; and Have You Got It Yet? The Story of Syd Barrett and Pink Floyd by Roddy Bogawa & Storm Thorgerson. Narrative features include Fancy Dance by Erica Tremblay; The Secret Art of Human Flight by H.P Mendoza, Madly by Gael García Bernal, Mia Wasikowska, Anurag Kashyap, Sebastián Silva, Sion Sono, & Bat for Lashes; and a 10 Year Anniversary screening of Only Lovers Left Alive by Jim Jarmusch.

The YSFF short films program features work by Steven Bognar, Charlotte Ercoli, Adam Meeks, Stephen Michael Simon, Max Cohn and Ellie Sachs, and will include the World Premiere of Lynn’s Fire by Steve Zahn (The Righteous Gemstones, The White Lotus).

The festival will also present a retrospective of the career of longtime Yellow Springs resident and Academy Award® winning director Julia Reichert, featuring film posters, interviews and excerpts of her incredible body of work available free to the public.

All films and events will take place October 6-8, 2023 in the village of Yellow Springs, Ohio at the historic Little Art Theatre, The Foundry at Antioch College and Crome Architecture. YSFF is produced by Hotshot Robot Productions Director / Producer Eric Mahoney and Creative Director / Musician Ian Jacobs, supported by the Yellow Springs Community Foundation.

For further info or to purchase tickets and badges please visit: www.ysfilmfest.com/

Dave Chappelle Brings Back Comedy In The Cornfields

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The first set of comedy shows for Wirrig Pavilion in Yellow Springs have been announced. Thursday, July 6th through Saturday, July 8th
shows, with tickets going on sale Monday, June 26th at 10am at Ticketmaster. Tickets are sold in pairs and are currently posted at $300/pair, which includes shuttle service for parking.

Tips from Ticketmaster to help you purchase your tickets.

Arrive 10 minutes early and complete these steps so you’re ready to go before the sale begins:

  • Sign in to your account in advance to speed up your purchase later.

  • Check that your payment info is current so you can breeze through checkout.

The Winds Cafe Releases New Menu

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Here’s a great reason to take a drive out to Yellow Springs!  The Winds Cafe has just shared their new menu.  They’ve also updated their wines by the glass list.

You can use Resy.com to reserve your place in their dining room.

The Winds Café

215 XENIA AVE
YELLOW SPRINGS, OHIO

937.767.1144

Dinner  Tues – Sat  4-9pm
Lunch Fri & Sat noon – 3pm

 

Artisan Bread Returns to Emporium Wines & Underdog Cafe

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Emporium Wines & Underdog Cafe is historically known for the smell of warm baked goods, and fresh, homemade artisan bread. Due to the demand on production, the option for freshly baked bread diminished, and the only way to acquire it was on sandwiches, and the occasional release of whole loaves.
Beginning on Thursday, August 11, 2022, Emporium Wines & Underdog Cafe will begin selling fresh artisan bread exclusively on Thursdays on a first-come first-served basis. Each week, the bakery will determine the type of bread that will be featured, and will present it on Thursday mornings while supplies last.
To help further promote homemade cuisine, the cold-cut sandwiches will be discontinued, and Healthy Choice Lunch Wraps will be added to the menu to include: Spicy Vegan Hummus, Zesty Tuna Salad, Crispy Three Cheese, Flavored Chicken, and more. These fresh in-house recipes will provide a variety of healthy choice lunch options for both on-the-go, and dine-in.
There will also be new a la carte breakfast menu options added. Starting on Thursday, August 11th, guests will be able to order scrambled eggs, bacon or turkey sausage patties, and a biscuit individually or together as a complete breakfast meal. This addition provides even more options and flexibility when ordering.
They have also updated their brewed coffee refill policy to reflect appreciation for our guests who frequent the Cafe Living Room. After the purchase of a first cup of any sized brewed coffee, a refill will only be $1.50. (Applicable on 8oz. 12oz. 16oz, or equivalent.)
Friday Nights at Emporium Wines & Underdog Cafe will continue to be wine tasting night.
Learn more about the Natural Wine process, and the benefits of organic options. Then, stick around to jam to the evening’s guest band.
233 Xenia Avenue
Yellow Springs, Ohio 45387
(937) 767-7077
Breakfast hours:
Monday – Friday: 7am – 12pm
Saturday & Sunday: 8am – 1pm
Friday Night Wine Tastings & Live Music
6:30PM – 10PM

Yellow Springs Restaurant Announces Garlic Dinner

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The annual garlic dinner at Winds Cafe has just been announced for the weekend of Nov 9- 11th.  It’s been a tradition since 1990, but they missed last years event due to the pandemic.  Missing last years event helped them make the decision to have this year’s menu feature the best dishes from the last 30 years of these garlic dinners.

Make a reservation for The Winds biggest event of the year.

80./person
95./person with wine pairings

Garlic Dinner does not Include Tax or Gratuity

Reservations are required and you can  reserve your place at the table at
https://resy.com/cities/cin/winds-cafe

 

Winds Cafe

215 XENIA AVE
YELLOW SPRINGS, OHIO

937.767.1144

Lunch noon – 4pm Fri & Sat
Dinner 4 – 9pm Tues- Sat

Yellow Springs Chappelle Shows Announced

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It looks like another summer of fun at the Wirrrig Pavilion is coming up.  Tickets will go on sale at noon today on ticketmaster for a series of Dave Chappelle & Friends shows.

Dave Chappelle hosts an exclusive evening of conversation and comedy in the era of social distancing. This event has extremely limited capacity to ensure the safety of all attendees. Doors open at 8:00 pm. No alcohol will be sold or permitted on the premises. As a friendly reminder, please be advised that The Wirrig Pavilion is located in a rural area where families, pets, and animals reside. We ask that all attendees please drive carefully, and adhere to all posted speed limit signs while travelling to and from The Wirrig Pavilion. MASKS MUST BE WORN AT ALL TIMES ONSITE AND TEMPERATURES WILL BE CHECKED UPON ENTRY.

Tickets will be available for 9pm shows on

Wed, May 26th
Thurs, May 27th
Fri, May 28th
Sat, May 29th

Ticket prices may fluctuate, based on demand, at any time.

 

 

 

Miguel’s Tacos Open Friday!

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Miguel’s Taco Truck has been in a familiar fixture around Yellow Springs for the last few years.  It debuted at the 2016 Street Fair and is often parked by the Yellow Springs Brewery or in Kings Yards. When you see that truck you can count on getting some freshly made taco’s or nacho’s. Miguel Espinosa prides himself  on using nothing from a can and hand making his sauces daily. A  few weeks ago Espinosa, announced on his facebook page that the truck was being put to rest so final preparations could be made to open the bricks and mortar version.

The new location for Miguel’s Tacos is at 101 Corry St in Yellow Springs.  Miguel says that the eatery will be open this Friday, November 27th and daily thereafter from 11:00 am – 9:00 pm.

Miguel, who was born in Mexico and moved to New York at 15. His father was a chef in a Mexican restaurant and Miguel started cooking as well.  He worked in a pizza place and when he felt he’s learned all he could there he moved on to a French restaurant and then an Asian restaurant.  Along the way he also bartended as some fancy places in NYC. After New York he found his way to a sushi restaurant in Tampa, Florida.  Several businesses later Espinosa, his wife and their 3 children moved to his wife’s hometown of Yellow Springs, when Dawn was hired as a development director for Yellow Spring schools.

It was after that that Miguel felt the need to cook for others again, and hence the food truck. Meals you can look forward to at the restaurant are pictured below:

Quesadillas with warm flour tortilla, your choice of meat, Chihuahua cheese, shaved lettuce, pico de gallo, sour cream, and guac on the side!

Fish Tacos

Dave’s Juke Joint is Jumpin’ Again

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Update: New Barnyard tickets now on sale

This ticket provides access to the barnyard ONLY.  The barnyard will include a big screen monitor, limited seating, drinks and concessions.  In case of inclement weather, guest will have access to a closed and covered area.  21 and over only.  These tickets are $50 with parking pass running $10. Click here for tickets.

If you know, you know…

Dave Chappelle brings his Juke Joint back to Yellow Springs April 20 & 21

Dave Chappelle brings his Juke Joint back to Yellow Springs April 20 & 21

The hottest most secretive ticket in town is back!

Once again, Dave Chappelle is bringing his Juke Joint to Yellow Springs. With DJ D-Nice on the 1’s and 2’s, and Fred Yonnet & The Band With No Name keeping the music going all night, this is a party you don’t want to miss.

Let’s be real here, it will be a mad rush to get the tickets as soon as they go on sale so I don’t really want to tell you what a cool experience it is. But it is. It’s previously been LEGEND-ary, we’ve sang along to Lyzel in E Flat, and wondered aloud if we could kick it (yes, we can). I’m not going to tell you about the card trick that David Blaine did to mess with my head while we were waiting in line for the food truck. I’m just not sharing all that info, or maybe I will on Monday after I have my tickets. I’m also not enthusiastically telling you about the Prince tribute planned for this year. Nope. Not doing it.

Please check out the DMM calendar to see all the cool things you don’t want to miss that will keep you very busy when tickets go on sale this Sunday at 6pm.

Game. Blouses.

 

Dave’s Juke Joint – It’s Happening Again!

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In 2016 Dave Chappelle hosted an amazing event in a barn, on a farm in Yellow Springs.  Inspired by music born in the juke joints of Americas Deep South, Chappelle’s modern day Juke Joint takes you on a trip thru his personal playlist which includes tunes ranging from Coltrane to Nirvana. This real music revival was part concert, part comedy, and all-out unpredictable.  In 2015 Chappelle hosted his Juke Joint in London, in 2016 besides the Yellow Springs event, there was also one in Minneapolis . In 2017 Dave’s Juke Joint popped up in New Orleans during NBA All Star weekend.

photo from DJ DNice’s instagram.

And now it’s happening again this Sunday and Monday in Yellow Springs.   Chappelle doesn’t exactly promote the Juke Joint, but rather seems to leave it to his Band with No Name leader, Frederic Yonnet, who, with other band members, post about the event on Instagram. Tickets will be  sold online only, and attendees have to agree to  relinquish their cell phones before entering the event.  According to the Instagram announcements,  tickets will go on sale tonight at 6pm at his website.

In 2016 the  all-star guest list included  Q-Tip, Jarobi White, Bradley Cooper, David Blaine, John Legend, Donnel Rawlings, Cipha Sounds.  Tickets that year were $75 each day for general admission, VIP was $100. There was a $10 parking fee.

The Perfect Staycation Get Away

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A mild winter creates a sense of urgency for spring to arrive. We crave the sunshine to beat down and brighten our mood. And when we get an intense cold snap post a pre-spring tease we’re instantly frustrated. A local getaway to the quaint Yellow Spring’s Arthur Morgan House, AMH, is the answer to brightening a mood. This tranquil escape to rest, relax, and recover is a short 25 minute drive from Downtown Dayton and well worth it. 

Upon arrival you’ll be mesmerized with the historic home that was constructed in 1921. It’s charm can be found throughout the home in it’s attention to details. It’s furnished with a fresh clean modern look. And the beds are made with soft blankets and cotton linens. The bathrooms are full of organic amenities, fluffy towels and locally made soaps. Press a special button in the bathroom and you’ll be met with a bit of a red flare, a infrared heat lamp. This provides extra heat when it is needed rather than wasting it. Stepping out of the shower onto a cold floor is no longer an issue. Then climbing into bed there is nothing better than looking out the large original windows to see the bright moon glow as you lay to sleep. What’s even more extraordinary is that there are no televisions, radios, or in-room phones to distract you from the surrounding beauty. Fear not business travelers, there is free wireless high-speed internet on the occasion that you may need to connect.

In the morning after you’re well rested you stroll downstairs for an included cooked-to-order breakfast for two. Worry not, ingredients are sourced locally at the Yellow Springs Farmer’s Market. Fair trade and organic coffee and teas also awaits you. If you have any special dietary needs, your concerns are met without hesitation; gluten-free, lactose-free, and vegan breakfasts are always available upon requests. During breakfast you may have the wonderful opportunity to meet other B&B guests, who do not disappoint and are lively and up for conversation. Plus, food at the Arthur Morgan B&B is made with love, a perfect way to start your getaway day in Yellow Springs.

From there you’ll definitely want to check out local shops and go for a hike in John Bryan or Glenn Helen to continue on your relaxing getaway. The AMH is downtown Yellow Springs and just a short walk to:  Little Art Theater, Chamber Music Yellow Springs concerts, the John Bryan Community Center, the Dharma Buddhist Center and the House of AUM yoga studio. Additionally AMH is a short drive to John Bryan State Park, Clifton Gorge and Young’s Jersey Dairy.

From the wonderful Staff, to the unique guests, and delicious breakfast, you will not forget your stay at the Arthur Morgan B&B, located at 120 W Limestone St,  in Yellow Springs, OH 45387.

Ha Ha Pizza with Local Artist, Tom Watson III

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Pizza with Artichokes, Spinach, Fresh Garlic, Pesto, and Turkey Sausage

Some Food Adventures are inspiring.  Take the case of local artist, scenester and zinester, Tom Watson III.  In March 2005, he survived a brain stem stroke.  What did he do next?  He used art to recover his motor skills and heal his mind.  Today some of his collection adorns the walls of Ha Ha Pizza  in Yellow Springs for a limited art showing.   Tom’s art show, titled  “Entropy & Reclamation” will be running though March 2014.   The event is named for his initial decay and chaos from the stroke, and his eventual reclaiming of a normal life.

We have actually eaten with Tom at HaHa Pizza a couple of times, since his first art show in 2007.  We will get into the pizza in a bit,  but first some history.

Tom’s story is one of overcoming obstacles, and never giving up.  Since his stroke, his life has changed.  He used the artwork not only to recover, he finished his degree, he married a loving wife, and has two wonderful sons.  Again, an inspiration and not bad for someone who wasn’t expected to live through the massive stroke.  He not only lived, he turned the entire ordeal into a learning experience.  He tackled his nightmare head-on, using scans of his brain stroke in many of his paintings.

You might be cool, but are you “get a National Award from ‘The Fonz’ cool” like Tom ?

Tom exhibits his art locally from time to time but in 2011, it received NATIONAL attention, when  Tom was awarded the first annual RAISE Award from the National Stroke Association.   Watson received the Outstanding Individual Award in recognition of his efforts to advocate for stroke awareness and prevention through his artwork.  The awards ceremony was held at the Denver Natural History museum in Denver, Colorado, and Watson was honored with the award by Henry “The Fonz” Winkler of Happy Days fame.

Tom’s art is unique and takes you through his mind and recovery.  We asked why he uses cardboard instead of canvas for his paintings.  His answer was that it all about recycling.  Tom had to learn how to recycle certain uses of his brain and muscles, so the cardboard is a message passed down from his struggle.  Today, Tom announced he is facing another hardship, as he was diagnosed with cancer in his tongue.  With his positive attitude, he is certain to conquer this challenge as well.

So if you want to support an incredible story of a local man beating the odds, please take some time to visit Ha Ha Pizza this Friday or visit TOM’S WEBSITE HERE.  You may find a piece you like.  It is more than art, it is a symbol of perseverance.

Some of Tom Watson’s artwork on display at Ha HA Pizza Through March

 

 

WHAT:  Art Reception Event “Entropy & Reclamation” at Ha Ha Pizza at 108 Xenia Ave in Yellow Springs

WHEN: Feb 21st, 5:30pm – 10pm

WHY:  Showcasing local artist and stroke survivor Tom Watson’s artwork.

 

MORE INFO:  http://www.facebook.com/tomwatson3rd.art

UPCOMING ART:  Tom will also be the featured artist for April 2014 at North South Studios in Wilmington, Ohio.

Watson is also in discussions to be a featured artist at X*ACT Gallery in Xenia for the Xenia Arts Council in May or June 2014.

Want to support Tom?  Then check out the art show or buy some  hand-printed, silk-screened T-shirts,  available at Urban Handmade store in downtown Yellow Springs.

 

Now about our FOOD ADVENTURES to HA HA PIZZA with Mr Watson…………

******HA HA PIZZA******

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

A slice from Ha Ha Pizza with Feta cheese option and more

— Iconic pizza joint located in Yellow Springs since 1971

— An Urban Legend says the name “Ha Ha” Pizza came from the sprinkling of a certain wacky weed on the pizza and the effects on customers.   Other rumors swirl about “magic mushrooms” being used on 70’s pizzas.

— All pizza dough is made daily from scratch.  Crusts choices include a Whole Wheat Crust option or a Traditional Flour Crust in 9 inch, 12 inch or 16 inch pies

— Causal atmosphere, also offering Calzones, Subs and a Full Salad Bar

 

MUST EATS:

— THE SALAD BAR:  We recommend the one trip salad bar deal, it will fill you up for sure !  No iceberg lettuce here, just some fresh Romaine Greens.  Grab some of the many toppings including Tofu and Garbonzo Beans !  Ohh did we mention incredible in-house dressings too ???  Yeah … they got that.

The salad bar features Romaine lettuce, Tofu and Garbonzo Beans for openers

— THE LUNCH SPECIAL: Your choice of a slice of pizza with 2 toppings and one trip to the salad bar for $5.99.  Tasty and filling!

 

— THE EGGPLANT SUB: Perfectly broiled slices of Eggplant, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and Ha Ha pizza sauce.  Served with Mikesells Groovy chips, how appropriate !

 

— THE FALAFEL CALZONE:An interesting Garbonzo Bean mix, with green peppers, onions, HaHa Pizza Sauce and Mozzarella Cheese.   This has to be a one of a kind, right?

 

— ARTICHOKE, SPINACH, PESTO, GARLIC and TURKEY SAUSAGE PIZZA:  Want to try a delicious flavor combo?  Try these 5 toppings on your pizza pie.

 

The bottom line, is this place is not a legend for nothing.   Want a real Food Adventure?  Try unique topping choices like bananas, water chestnuts, zucchini and falafel.

Whole Wheat Crust or White Flour Crust options on all pizzas

The Big Ragu and Crew are gonna try an anchovy and smoked oyster topping pizza next time for sure!  Won’t you join us for a bite and a laugh at HA HA PIZZA???

Remember, we are not food critics, we are just 2 guys that love to eat.   Want more from FOOD ADVENTURES?  Then check out these “Miami Valley Foodies” and like them on Facebook HERE !

Check out our photo gallery below, showing off some of the numerous tasty meals we have had at Ha Ha Pizza.  Have you been to Ha Ha?  What is your take on local artist Tom Watson’s journey?   Please comment below and be heard.

If you are interested in his artwork or a T-shirt feel free to contact the man, the myth, the legend, Tom Watson HERE ON FACEBOOK

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Kettering Cultural Arts Manager Picks Her Top Moments in Dayton Visual Arts 2013

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Dayton was home to numerous amazing art exhibitions, collaborations and projects in 2013. Although there were many, many more superb events that are not on this list, the arts listed below serves as a glimpse into the vitality of the Dayton region’s creative folks and spaces! Enjoy!

CIRCUS!
Dayton Visual Arts Centre

January 2 – 11P1100868
A collaborative project between artist Leesa Haapapuro and the Young People’s Homeschoolers program at K12 Gallery culminated into a short show at the Dayton Visual Arts Center. The young circus performers next to their murals, sculptures and paintings, created an incredible new world of possibility and magic for youth and adults.

Jud Yalkut: Visions and Sur-Realities
University of Dayton
Jan. 31 through March 7

40098

Nam June Paik and Jud Yalkut, Beatles Electroniques, 1969

One of Dayton’s most treasured artists, Jud Yalkut was revered for his advocacy of the arts, his pioneer video works, his collages and his writing.  The exhibition captured many of his artworks, including special screenings of his film and video works, many of which hadn’t been seen by the public in decades.  Jud passed away in July 2013, marking an end of an era and a huge loss to the Dayton arts community.  Learn more about the his timely retrospective and career here.

The week of May 4 – 12
Urban Nights, Sideshow 8, Art on the Playground and AIA Architecture Week
Throughout Dayton and Kettering

 

The high quality and numerous events that took place over the first and second weekends of May was inspiring; Dayton’s Urban Nights, The Circus Creative Collective’s Side Show 8, Kettering’s inauguralArt on the Playground and AIA’s Architecture Week brought thousands of people out to participate in Dayton arts and culture.

Reinvention Stories
Dayton Art Institute
June 30 – September 29

dcp_Twin Towers Portrait_Emily Evans

Emily Evans, Untitled (Twin Towers), 2012

As evidence of Dayton’s vitality, a special project launched in January captures the city’s pulse. Local radio station WYSO 91.3 and filmmakers Julia Reichert and Steve Bognar teamed-up to create the multi-platform media project Reinvention Stories, a series of audio stories and short films of Dayton and its residents. The project, instigated by WYSO’s general manager Neenah Ellis, is based on a series of questions: how does a city of inventors reinvent itself? How are individuals reinventing themselves? How are people dealing with the economic turmoil of recent years? How is Dayton doing? Through this documentation, a collection of videos and photographs were selected by Eva Buttacavoli, Executive Director of the Dayton Visual Arts Centre, and partnership with the Dayton Visual Arts Center and WYSO 91.3. Learn more bout the project at http://www.reinventionstories.org.

Inside Out 11M
August 4
Missing Peace Art Space and Synergy Incubator

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Inside Out 11M at Missing Peace Art Space

Inside Out 11M is a project based on Jr’s Inside Out with a focus on the question of immigration. Focusing on the residents of Dayton, the project captured portraits of hundreds of kids, adults and seniors. From the website: “A nationwide participatory art initiative aimed at creating a portrait of America that includes immigrants and the descendants of immigrants alike.”  Learn more about the project here.

HWD: Regional Sculpture Exhibition
August 26 – September 27
Rosewood Gallery

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Roscoe Wilson, Austere Consumption

HWD, or Height x Width x Depth, featured dozens of artists working in three-dimensional form. Participating artists were featured from Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virgina, Kentucky, Michigan and Indiana.  Highlights included the work of  Don Williams, Terry Welker, Rebecca Emrick, Courtney Kessel, Carrie Longley, David Kenworthy, Erica Wine, and so many more. Learn more about the exhibition here and photos are here.

Soo Sunny Park
Unwoven Light
Wright State’s Robert and Elaine Stein Galleries
September 15 – October 13

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Image courtesy of Wright State University

Exploring the boundaries between drawing and sculpture, Park’s chainlink fence and plexiglass transformed the Stein galleries into a moving experience.  Originally commissioned by Rice University, Park’s beautiful installation has been traveling to galleries around the country.

National Bronze Sculpture Symposium
October 13 – 26
Yellow Springs Arts Council

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Image courtesy of Bernie Carreno

The Yellow Springs Arts Council launched its first symposium in October, focusing on the process of lost-wax bronze casting.  Commissioning four sculptors, including D’jean Jawrunner (New Mexico), Susan Byrnes (Cincinnati), Brian Maughan (Yellow Springs), and John Weidman (New Hampshire), the artists created works on site for two-weeks, culminating in a live pour of their molds.  Exhibitions, lectures and artist talks complemented the artmaking daily.  More info is here.

Object of Devotion:
Medieval English Alabaster Sculpture from the Victoria and Albert Museum
Dayton Art Institute
October 26  – January 5, 2014

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Anonymous, English, The Fifth Sign of the Last Judgment, c. 1440-1470. Courtesy of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

A stunning collection of medieval alabaster sculptures, on loan from the Victoria and Albert Museum, demonstrate the dramatic, narrative and intricate scenes interpreted from biblical texts.  An art form popular in the 15th and 16th centuries, alabasters were considered a low-end of medieval craft for centuries. Over 40 examples at the Dayton Art Institute show the merit of this art form, which finally gained recognition by scholars and collectors in the twentieth century.

Bullet: Who Pulls the Trigger?
Art Street, University of Dayton
September 24 – November 3

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James Pate and DECA students collaborative drawing

Art Street presented a complicated, difficult and important question within the multi-faceted collaborative art installation with artist James Pate, Dayton Early College Academy, South Chicago Art Center and Newtown, CT artists. Focused on creating a dialogue on issues of gun violence with a focus on South Chicago, Newtown and Dayton, panel discussions were a major component to the gallery exhibition. Artworks included New York artist S.B. Woods’ Meditation on Mourning, paintings made by Sandy Hook shooting survivors, Dayton-based artist James Pate and a group of DECA high school students. From the website: “This piece was conceived in part by James Pate, and in part by the students. After a conversation about gun violence, the students came to the consensus that ‘we as a society pull the trigger.’” Chicago artist Sarah Ward and students from the South Chicago Art Center created etchings of bullets to symbolize one for every person affected by gun violence on a daily basis. Read more about the exhibition here.

Dia de los Muertos
November 1

 

Dayton’s Day of the Dead parade and celebration took place on Friday, November 1, from the Oregon District to the historic St. Anne’s Hill neighborhood.  Hundreds of folks participated, many donning costumes and painted faces as music, art and food commemorated our loved ones. Stivers School for the Arts students, professional and emerging musicians and artists contributed to the celebration.  Spearheaded by volunteers, including Jean Howat Berry, MB Hopkins, Tonia Fish, Lisa Grigsby, and several others, the event found support from the community in its crowdsourcing fundraiser, as well as Welcome Dayton’s sponsoring of the parade, and Missing Peace Art Space and the Unitarian Fellowship for World Peace hosting.