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Can Dayton’s newest mall push the northern suburbs to new Heights?

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Here’s one of the lessons that the current residents of the Rustbelt have learned in the past few decades: Cities are fluid. They change, they morph, they grow and they stagnate, they change, they morph, they grow again and again. It’s kind of the beauty of the pulse of a city- what’s new becomes old and everything old is new again. For the past few years we’ve been watching quite a bit of decay and deconstruction in the Dayton area, but there’s been growth, too.

Austin Landing gets a lot of attention, but north of the river is a residential development called Carriage Trails, and its proposed anchor shopping mall, The Heights, has potential to bring a new interest, money, and energy to the Montgomery/Miami County border. Development in this part of Dayton is a healthy, thing and the timing is good. We’ve watched the demise of the Salem Mall, and retail pull out of downtown- what were once the two most convenient locations for shopping for Dayton north of I-70. So the northern Dayton area could use a bold plan. Today’s Dayton Daily News has a comprehensive look at The Heights, you can read that here.

Contractor meeting at Carriage TrailsI’ve heard mixed opinions from northern residents. With limited northern retail options, some of the comments I’ve heard suggest that finally we don’t have to drive to Beavercreek, Kettering, or Centerville to shop at a mall. I’ve also heard that Huber has seen some tough times recently so why would anyone put in upscale shopping here? Someone expressed the sentiment that we already have bus service so it could fill a void that the Fairfield Commons is unwilling to address.

This mall is likely to attract residents from all over the northern Miami Valley- residents from Brookville or Greenville to the west, Piqua, Troy, Sidney to the north, and Springfield from the east. It’s just off I-70 and 5 minutes east of I-75 so it could be destination for a largely under served area. The real estate side to this is that for homes in the area, this will make them more attractive and bring renewed interest and energy to the area, because the truth is that most people like to live in a somewhat concentrated area, not far from their jobs and retail, and this development will compliment a prime real estate combination- we have variety. The Huber Heights/ Bethel Twp/ Tipp City area has a wide range of older and newer housing stock, and a wide range of home prices, making for a nicely diverse selection for home buyers to choose.

With all the changes Dayton has seen in the last few years, growth is good to see, but this isn’t everyone’s idea of positive growth. I’m curious what you think? Are you looking forward to seeing a new mall in northern Dayton?

An Extra Ordinary Food Adventure with The Big Ragu & Crew

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We have been hearing “You should try “E.O.” Burgers,” for the last several months.  E.O. burgers stands for Extra Ordinary.  Being burger connoisseurs, we set out to The Greene Outdoor Mall in Beavercreek to give it a shot.

E.O. Burgers restaurant is not a chain.  Their meat is free range, 100% USDA Prime Beef — a standard only met by 2% of all restaurants in the U.S.  All of their burgers can be served on an Arnold brand “skinny bun” which is a low carb, low calorie thin multi-grain bun or on whole wheat or regular buns.  Your Food Adventure, your choice…

Our so-called “food runner” told us we could “cluck it” to make any burger on the menu chicken.  They also have portabello burgers, veggie burgers and a turkey burger option.

E.O. offers 2 sizes of burgers: regular 6 oz burgers, or large 9 oz burgers.  We thought it would be best for our belts to go with the smaller burger since we were also delving into the fries.

Try the Bourbon Street burger on a skinny bun.  This came with 2 toppings: grilled onions and hot peppers.  The burger also features a homemade Cholula mayo sauce which gave the sandwich an extra kick.  We loved the fact that no grease was dripping down our hand while indulging in this burger.  We also ordered a side of Parmesean Fries which we enjoyed dipping in the Cholula mayo.

The Big Ragu ordered the E.O. Classic Cheeseburger that he topped with various sauces from the condiment caddy.  The foodie purists ridicule him for desecrating the burger with so many sauces.  Ragu skipped the onion rings served with “sassy sauce” and instead ordered herb-rubbed fries with rosemary and thyme.  We think Ragu needs to be rubbed down with herbs as well, next Food Adventure.

Herb Rubbed Fries

The fries are hand cut daily. You can also get a “ring fry” which is half fries, half onion rings.  E.O Burgers also has a full bar with several offbeat draft beer options.

One of the curious things about this place is that there was a custard machine with an “arm” of custard hanging out.  They use the custard for shakes, cones, and sundaes.  All of their kids’ meals come with a cone!  Also, with any adult meal, you can buy one half price ticket for the movie theater across the street.

The E.O. Classic Cheeseburger

The restaurant’s atmosphere is comfortable and casual with great music.  The staff was friendly and there is an outdoor patio area.  It was a nice break from the bustle of The Greene.  To all of our friends who recommended this place, you were right, it is great!  We enjoyed every bit.. whoops, BITE of this Extra Ordinary Food Adventure.

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Have you been to E.O. Hamburgers?  Please post your comments below !

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Beer Week Concludes With AleFest Saturday

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It seems only fitting that the proper way to conclude beer week is with a huge beer bash and that’s exactly what Joe Waizmann, organizer of the 13th annual AleFest is planning.  Over 4000 beer fans are expected to take over Carillon Historical Park this Sat, Aug 27th from 2-6pm.  According to Waizmann, the event will be “bigger and better than ever with more than 350 beers from about 140 breweries – an all time high,”  listed here if you want to look.

One of the highlights of the fest will be the Cask Ales being tapped. These beers are  brewed from traditional ingredients and matured in the cask from which it is served. As Chappy’s co-owner Lori Yanko  explains, “these beers have a different mouth feel because they are self carbonated as opposed to poured with co2.  Breweries will often release variations on their specialty brews, for instance the Great Lakes  we’re pouring this Friday night is a special cask of dry-hopped Commodore Perry,  as opposed to their regular IPA.”

Look for the following Cask Ales- and expect them to disappear quickly:

  • Heavy Seas Loose Canon IPA Dry Hopped in Cask
  • Left Hand Milk Stout
  • Thirsty Dog Belgian Tripel with Cherries
  • Thirsty Dog Druid Farmhouse Ale
  • Two Brothers Resistance Oaked IP
Tips from Making the most of AleFest  from Fest Veterans

“A designated driver would be a good idea,” suggests Peter W, Dayton’s Premier Event Photographer (AleFest does offer a $10 designated driver ticket- if you have a friend that is really patient, better yet- arrange to have a sober driver await your call for a ride home).

“Get there early – the lines fill up fast, so if you wait until later to arrive you’ll be waiting in long lines and wasting precious beer drinking time,” shares Elise H, who biked 10 miles for the beer of it on Tues and highly  recommends the event for next year!

“Wear something cool and comfortable.  Plan out what you really want to try first. You never know what could be on a very limited supply, so you don’t want to miss out. Try the stuff you have never had before first,” advises Brain A, a local homebrewer.

“Take notes of the beers you like and those that, God forbid, you don’t.  If you don’t like something it will save youfrom buying a whole 6-pack down the road. Have a great time seeing friends! Check out the beer gear too,”says Marty B, Beer Week Committee Member

“Don’t worry about running out of tickets. As the afternoon wears on, some of the vendors get more generous with their pours,” offers Steve S, a veteran of early AleFests.

Budget conscious beer drinkers will want to get their AleFest ticket in advance for $35, you can pick it up at over 60 area bars and fine beer merchants, or purchase online or you can buy it at the park for $40.  Your ticket includes a cute little sampling glass, but don’t beg the volunteers pouring to fill it up.  Their is a sample line printed right on it  Bring extra money for snacks which will be available from 5th Street Deli, Chappys Tap Room & Grille, & Dorothy Lane Market and to pick up a cool beer collectible, if that’s your thing.   Phat Like Dad will be playing tunes in the gazebo and you may want to bring a portable chair and set up a home base for when you need a break.

Jane’s Best Bets (8/24 – 8/28)

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Happy Beer Week Dayton!  Hopefully some of you have already started to sample some great beers in and around town.  If not, you will have plenty of opportunities to do so.  And if beer is not your thing, there are some other great options this week as well!

On Wednesday, celebrate Dayton Beer Week with beer tastings at some of these fine establishments:  5th Street Wine & Deli for the Green Flash Brewery Tasting; Trolley Stop for the Off Centered Foot Stomp; The Pub at The Greene for the Belhaven Happy Hour; Blind Bob’s for the Mt. Carmel Brews; Chappy’s for the Sierra Nevada Tasting; or Spinoza’s for a Beer Tasting with North Coast Brewing Co. If you haven’t been to the Fraze yet this season, then here is your opportunity to do so for a FREE show!  Nicky Kay & His Fabulous Kay-Tones featuring Crazy Joe will be performing.  And if you are in need of some professional development (aren’t we all?), then attend Generation Dayton’s Business Ethics Event at the Crowne Plaza Hotel.

On Thursday, make your way to Courthouse Square for The Square Is Where featuring the Miami Valley Folk Dancers.  Sick and tired of men?  Have a Girls Night Out at The Melting Pot.  Sorry guys.  The beer tastings will continue at a variety of bars/restaurants, including Lucky’s (Firkin Drag Race), Spinoza’s (Ommegang Brewing Co.), The Pub at The Greene (Sierra Nevada Tasting), and A Taste of Wine (Mt Caramel Beer Tasting 7).  You will be able to have a complete Summer Beer Dinner at the Schuster Center’s Citilites.  While the weather is still nice, be sure to get outdoors and enjoy some live music down at RiverScape with their Big Band Nights featuring the Kim Kelly Orchestra.  If you’re in shape, then make your way to Fifth Third Field for the Dayton Dragons 5K Fun Run.  I can’t imagine that running would be considered fun, but maybe they know something I don’t.

On Friday, there will again be a Square Is Where performance at Courthouse Square featuring the Minions of Fate.  There will also be plenty more beer tastings for you, such as the Great Lakes Tapping at Lucky’s or the Red Carpet Rollout at the Trolley Stop.  Feeling a little clammy?  Make your way to The Dock for their Clam Bake Weekend.  Enjoy some Lebanese cuisine, Middle Eastern dancing and entertainment, cultural displays, and much more at the 18th Greater Dayton Lebanese Festival.  At the Dayton Theatre Guild, you will be able to see The Oldest Profession.  I don’t know why you would like Grease because it stains your clothes, but if for some chance you do, then you will be able to see it at the Victoria Theatre as part of the Michelob Ultra Cool Films Series at Victoria Theatre.  At Sharkey’s, dance to the music of the Webster’s, a super fun cover band.  And finally, I hope you are among the lucky few who have tickets to see Chicago at the Fraze!  If not, I’m sorry.  And by the way, if you know me, it’s really not hard for me to say I’m sorry.  Saying sorry would be a hard habit to break.

Saturday is AleFest!  This is without a doubt THE place to be if you like beer.  Just be sure to pace yourself and bring a DD!  If you have kids, you’ll be able to take them to Fifth Third Field for the Subway Fresh Fit Family Day, which will include inflatable games, appearances by Heater and Gem, and much more!  Support some great charities, including A Special Wish Foundation and the Special Olympics by attending the 1st Annual Lawmen’s Band Bash at the Clark County Fairgrounds.  If you enjoy festivals, the 18th Greater Dayton Lebanese Festival will still be going on.  The Dayton Diversity International Potluck Luncheon at the main branch of the Dayton Metro Library will provide another opportunity for you to participate in multicultural activities and taste some specialty dishes.  At Fifth Third Field, catch the Dragons play the West Michigan Whitecaps.  And if you prefer to be indoors, you will be able to see The Oldest Profession at the Dayton Theatre Guild or the movie  Grease at Victoria Theatre.

On Sunday, get your bike out and participate in the Tour de Dayton which is the 1st Annual Cycling and Destination Tour.  Check out some sweet rides at the 7th Annual Antioch Shrine Custom Car & Bike Show at RiverScape.  You still have some time to check out/attend some of the events earlier in the week, including the 18th Greater Dayton Lebanese Festival, the showing of the movie Grease as part of the Michelob Ultra Cool Films Series, and The Oldest Profession at the Dayton Theatre Guild.  Listen to the U.S. Air Force Band of Flight at Stubbs Amphitheater in Centerville.  At Fifth Third Field, watch as the Dragons take on the West Michigan Whitecaps.  And finally, to all you wine lovers out there – please don’t “wine” because this week has been about beer.  There is an event for you as well – Primo Vino Sunday at Arrow Wine in Kettering.

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

A skeleton walks into a bar and says, “I’ll have a beer and a mop.”

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

Have a great week Dayton!

The Church of Augiology

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Auggie Smith and the Wayward Masses

To the uninitiated, (or “non-believers” as they are commonly called by The Auggites) Auggie Smith is the founder and Grand Pubah for Life of what has come to be known as The First Church of Augiology. While not technically a religion, at least not in the fully tax exempt definition narrowly portrayed in the IRS’s Draconian codes, the movement of Augism is gaining momentum in this country, as well as other, more backwards countries who really don’t know any better. With the recent release of his new DVD and CD, Cult Following, more of the weary and downtrodden will quickly become zealous converts.

Smith was born. This we know to be true. Everything after that is rather suspect and apocryphal. Being a rather shy individual throughout his youth, Auggie attained the rank of presidency of the speech team and cleaned the bathrooms at his school, making his vows of chastity almost unavoidable.

“You can imagine how the girls just flocked to that – president of the speech team!” Auggie says in Duderonomy 4:16. “’Wow, look at that!’ All girls care about at that age is a guy who can conjugate a verb.”

He remained chaste until the age of eighteen, succumbing to the lure of the flesh and Auggie found it to be good. He began his journey into the world, preaching his message for the masses, never gaining the attention he so richly deserved. After many disheartening years, Auggie considered renouncing his calling and wandering the earth like Al Gore, broken and dispirited. As destiny would have it, he met two like minded individuals; Apostle Bob and Saint Tom. They gave Auggie the inspiration and hope to preach his sermons on their quaint morning show. Thus the cult of Auggie was born.

After years of spreading the gospel on XM and Sirius satellite radio, after performing miracles at countless comedy clubs throughout the nation by turning dollars into wine and even after he died one night on stage in Butztown, Pennsylvania, only to rise three days later in a defiled motel room, hung over, Auggie is ready to be your personal pathfinder. He has sacrificed his life to be your personal sherpa, guiding you through the pitfalls and the pain, making you forget, at least for an hour or so, that the world is a festering cesspool of rampant self-interest.

This messianic messenger of mirth is bringing his traveling revival show to a stage somewhere near you, to spread the one true gospel. What should one expect when entering Auggie’s church? The faithful will be blessed with a bellicose dose of reality, delivered in a breathless, rapid-fire rant, shining a stark light on the futile efforts of man. From the current political scene to Barbie being raw dogged by G.I. Joe as he has a ‘Nam flashback, nothing is sacred in this sanctuary. The pervasive daily fears we all surrender to will be lifted to reveal the true evildoers behind senior citizen NASCAR drivers, voracious vending machines and drunken pink bunnies.

“Really brother, wouldn’t it just be easier to stay home and not have to interact with any live people?” Aug asks. “I SAY NO! The fear ends now. The only way to win is to not be afraid, or to paraphrase a Stallone classic, ‘fear is the disease…Aug is the cure!'”

Why should you be a follower of Auggie Smith? Why should you become part of the Cult Following? Humbly witness all that Auggie has sacrificed for us: his wasted teenage years scrubbing bathroom stalls while we were partying and getting laid. His ongoing pursuit to ingest every street corner pharmaceutical product, keeping them out of our reach so that we won’t cause harm unto ourselves as well as his ever vigilante watch over all the bars and pubs across this great land of ours, safeguarding them until they are safely closed. These things he does for us…selflessly! He truly cares about our well being and tries to convey this clearly during his sermons. He forces you to see the inequities in the lives we witness as well as the ones we live. His inescapable diatribes hammer home the absurdities we all see in everyday life, yet are afraid to comment on. He speaks while we are silent. Well, to tell the truth, he speaks while we’re talking as well, but nobody’s perfect.

Just reflect for a moment on this truism that he has shared with us;

“Your bunny may be your relationship or your job, but at one time, you tried to give your bunny a bear hug and things got out of hand.”

How can one argue with this incontrovertible truth? How?

Watch the DVD. Listen to the CD. Catch him on The Bob and Tom Show, or better yet, witness the man in person when he comes to town. If you’re not completely satisfied…well, you’ll still be out the money for the DVD, CD and the tickets, but hey, doesn’t it just make you feel warm inside knowing you helped a potentially sober comedian attain a higher level of consciousness via many, many Jägerbombs?

Services for the Church of Aug will be held at Wiley’s Comedy Niteclub on Thursday August 25th at 8:00pm (for a $5 tithe), Friday August 26th at 9:00pm (with a mandatory $10 donation). Saturday August 20th brings us to the conclusion of Auggie’s missionary work here in Dayton with a full blown comedy revival, featuring the comedy sermonizing of Deacon Tom Griswold from the Church of Latter Day Bob and Toms. Services for this revival will begin at 8:00pm with a secondary service held 10:30pm for all of those incorrigible heathens. For these special Saturday Night Sermons,  a collection of $20 is required. To make reservations, call (937) 224-JOKE. For more information, go to the Wiley’s website at http://www.wileyscomedyclub.com/ or add them as a friend on Facebook at Wiley’s Comedy Niteclub.

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2011 DayTonys/Theatre Hall of Fame Gala

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Grreg Smith in Precious Heart

Over 180 theater enthusiasts gathered at Sinclair Community College’s Ponitz Center Saturday, August 13 for the eighth annual DayTonys and 10th annual Dayton Theatre Hall of Fame ceremonies.

Emceed by Hall of Fame member Greg Smith, the gala saluted outstanding performers, designers and productions from the 2010-11 season as voted on by individuals from participating theaters (Beavercreek Community Theatre, Cedarville University, Clark State Community College, Dayton Playhouse, Dayton Theatre Guild, Epiphany Lutheran Church, Playhouse South, Sinclair Community College, Troy Civic Theatre, University of Dayton and Young at Heart Players). The winners, separated by collegiate and community theater distinctions, were awarded medallions of excellence or merit.

Six shows received top honors for Outstanding Overall Production: “A Piece of My Heart” (Playhouse South), “Hello, Dolly!” (Cedarville University), “Once On This Island” (Sinclair Community College), “Precious Heart” (Dayton Theatre Guild), “Seussical” (Whoville Cast, Epiphany Lutheran Church) and “Southern Comforts” (Young at Heart Players).

Shocking snubs are commonplace in the DayTonys universe…

I’m sure the DayTonys organization didn’t anticipate controversy this year, but there’s no excuse for the absolutely appalling, bizarre shut-out of the Dayton Playhouse’s splendid non-professional local premiere of “The Producers,” a huge community theater undertaking which I proudly considered to be among the Top 10 productions of 2010. Impressively staged last summer, the knockout, sell-out production, a crowning achievement for the Playhouse which rivaled and surpassed aspects of the Broadway original, not only deserved Outstanding Overall recognition, but a clean sweep of every category in which it was eligible. I’m pleased to mention the individuals who notably contributed to director/set designer Chris Harmon’s fantastic presentation: performers Saul Caplan, David Sherman, Danika Haffenden, Charles Larkowski, Kevin Rankin, Jonathan Berry, Terry Lupp, Cameron Elliott, Betsy Fesser, Jeannine Geise, Sandra Hyde, Cheryl Kayser, Jeremy King, Zach King, Marabeth Klejna, Adrianne Krauss, Robert Martin, Nicklaus Moberg, Tara Nicole Murphy, Matthew Owens, Megan Vander Kolk, Bryan Wilcox and Madeline Zofkie; musical director Ron Kindell; choreographer Annette Looper; costume designer Josh Hollister; lighting designer Anita Bachmann; and sound designer Tony Fende.

Shocking snubs are commonplace in the DayTonys universe (I still can’t believe Sinclair’s marvelous production of “Dog Sees God: Confessions of a Teenage Blockhead” was ignored last year), but perhaps the overtly and remarkably egregious omission of “The Producers,” which might not have happened if credible, unbiased outsiders could adjudicate, will finally spark a serious overhaul of the voting procedures. If action is not taken, the artistic legitimacy of the DayTonys will be continually tarnished.

Also oddly bypassed for Outstanding Overall Production were: “The Boys Next Door” (Dayton Theatre Guild), “The Importance of Being Earnest” (Cedarville University), “Mauritius” (Dayton Theatre Guild), “The Mystery of Edwin Drood” (Beavercreek Community Theatre), “The Spitfire Grill” (Beavercreek Community Theatre) and “The Sugar Witch” (Dayton Theatre Guild). Additional oversights included: the complete shut-out of “Mauritius”; the ensembles of “Ravenscroft” (Dayton Theatre Guild), “The Mystery of Edwin Drood” and “The Sugar Witch”; performers Amy Askins, Nicolas Bauer (both “Fat Pig,” Dayton Theatre Guild) and Karen Righter (“La Cage aux Folles,” Dayton Playhouse); and director Natasha Randall (“The Boys Next Door”).

Longtime arts patrons Don & Lois Bigler, Dayton Theatre Guild president Carol Finley and Beavercreek Community Theatre president Doug Lloyd were inducted into the Hall of Fame. A special lifetime achievement award was presented to costumer Gerri Nichols, who has worked with Troy Civic Theatre for 46 years. The awards and inductions, effectively held for the first time in Ponitz Hall Auditorium, were preceded by a touching memorial tribute to Hall of Fame members Nelson D’Aloia and Marsha Hanna. Kay Frances Wean, who also passed away last season, was fittingly acknowledged as well.

Collegiate Theater Recipients

Awards of Excellence

Acting

Melissa Kerr Ertsgaard, “The Foreigner” (Sinclair Community College)

Keely Heyl, “See How They Run” (Cedarville University)

Jessica Diane Hickling, “Hello, Dolly!”

Risa Hillsman, “Once On This Island”

Isaac Hollister, “The Foreigner”

Gabriel Pyle, “Hello, Dolly!”

Rachel Wilson, “The Women of Lockerbie” (Sinclair Community College)

Choreography

Katy Russell and Alexandra Turner, “Hello, Dolly!”

Costumes

Ruth Clements, “Hello, Dolly!”

Direction

David Brush, “Once On This Island”

Robert and Ruth Clements, “Hello, Dolly!”

Ensemble

The casts of “Hello, Dolly!” and “The Women of Lockerbie”

Lighting Design

Gina Neuerer, “Once On This Island”

Properties

Terry Stump, “Once On This Island”

Set Design

Terry Stump, “Once On This Island

Special Acknowledgements

The Band, “Flash: The Musical” (Clark State Community College)

Jessica Diane Hickling (hair/makeup design), “Hello, Dolly!”

Awards of Merit

Acting

Steven Brotherton, “The Foreigner”

William Courson, “The Women of Lockerbie”

Angela Dermer, “The Women of Lockerbie”

Corinne Derusha, “Once On This Island”

Allison Husko, “The Women of Lockerbie”

Josiah Hutchings, “Hello, Dolly!” and “See How They Run”

Patrick Lillis, “The Diviners” (University of Dayton)

Lindsay McGee, “Hello, Dolly!”

Alexander Mol, “Hello, Dolly!”

Anna Zavodney, “Hello, Dolly!”

Choreography

Rodney Veal, “Once On This Island”

Costumes

Debbie Henderson, “Flash: The Musical”

Kathleen Hotmer, “Once On This Island”

­Direction

Kimberly Borst, “The Women of Lockerbie”

Nelson Sheeley, “The Foreigner”

Ensemble

The casts of “The Importance of Being Earnest” and “Once On This Island”

Lighting Design

Robert Clements, “See How They Run”

Dan Hunt, “Flash: The Musical”

Gina Neuerer, “The Women of Lockerbie”

Musical Direction

John Faas, “Once On This Island”

Beth Cram Porter, “Hello, Dolly!”

Properties

Emily Dykman, Doug Malcolm and Kristin Troyer, “Hello, Dolly!”

Donald N.C. Jones, “See How They Run”

Set Design

Robert Clements, “Hello, Dolly!”

Dan Hunt, “Flash: The Musical”

Donald N.C. Jones, “See How They Run”

Terry Stump, “The Women of Lockerbie”

Sound Design

John Findley, “The Women of Lockerbie”

Geoffrey D. Moss, “Flash: The Musical”

Community Theater Recipients

Awards of Excellence

Acting

Evan Benjamin, “Seussical” (Whoville Cast)

Amelia Bergmann, “Seussical” (Whoville Cast)

Jonathan Berry, “The Mystery of Edwin Drood”

Bryan Burckle, “Seussical” (Whoville Cast)

Catherine Collins, “A Piece of My Heart”

Danielle Dowler, “A Piece of My Heart”

Rich Embry, “Seussical” (Whoville Cast)

Emily Fultz, “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” (Playhouse South)

Jeanette Grout, “Seussical” (Jungle Cast)

Franklin Johnson, “The Boys Next Door”

Barbara Jorgensen, “Southern Comforts”

Lynn Kesson, “A Piece of My Heart”

Andrew Larochelle, “Mid-Life: The Crisis Musical” (Beavercreek Community Theatre)

Barbara Lurie, “Charley’s Aunt” (Troy Civic Theatre)

Darren Maddox, “The Boys Next Door”

Tammy Makela, “A Piece of My Heart”

Anna Prince, “A Piece of My Heart”

Rebecca Riffle, “Seussical” (Whoville Cast)

Michael Shannon, “Seussical” (Whoville Cast)

Jessica Suba, “A Piece of My Heart”

Costumes

Carol Finley, “The Boys Next Door”

Direction

Fran Pesch, “Southern Comforts”

Kay Frances Wean, “Seussical”

Ensemble

The casts of “A Piece of My Heart” and “Mid-Life: The Crisis Musical”

Lighting Design

John Falkenbach, “Mid-Life: The Crisis Musical” and “The Mystery of Edwin Drood”

Musical Direction

John Benjamin, “Seussical”

Properties

Blake Senseman, “Precious Heart”

Set Design

Blake Senseman, “The Sugar Witch”

Sound Design

Andrew Spohn, “A Piece of My Heart”

Awards of Merit

Acting

Duante Beddingfield, “Frank’s Life” (Dayton Theatre Guild) and “La Cage aux Folles”

Hannah Berry, “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee”

Brittany Brown, “Frank’s Life”

Jim Brown, “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”

Josh Catawick, “I Hate Hamlet” (Playhouse South)

Barbara Coriell, “Wit” (Dayton Playhouse)

Kelsey Celek, “The Spitfire Grill”

Richard Croskey, “La Cage aux Folles”

Corinne Derusha, “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” (Dayton Playhouse)

Ellen Finch, “Beyond Therapy” (Dayton Playhouse)

William Fulmer, “The Boys Next Door”

Kerri Haldeman, “Mid-Life: The Crisis Musical”

Tina Hayes, “Sylvia” (Troy Civic Theatre)

Nathan Hudson, “A Piece of My Heart”

Dan Kuchta, “Charley’s Aunt”

Terry Larson, “Mid-Life: The Crisis Musical”

Caleb Magill, “Charley’s Aunt”

Pam McGinnis, “The Spitfire Grill”

Bobby Mitchum, “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee”

Kevin Rankin, “Mid-Life: The Crisis Musical”

Lisa Sadai, “The Boys Next Door”

Jeff Sams, “Messiah on the Frigidaire” (Beavercreek Community Theatre)

Libby Scancarello, “Sylvia”

Lindsay Sherman, “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee”

Greg Smith, “Precious Heart” and “Southern Comforts”

Matthew Smith, “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee”

Dean Swann, “The Mystery of Edwin Drood”

Wendi Williams, “Fat Pig”

Rachel Wilson, “Messiah on the Frigidaire”

Choreography

Annette Looper, “The Mystery of Edwin Drood”

Megan Wean, “Seussical” (Jungle Cast)

Costumes

Carol Finley, “Precious Heart”

Maria Klueber and Lori Watamaniuk, “Seussical”

Tony Mullins, “A Piece of My Heart”

Direction

John Falkenbach, “Mid-Life: The Crisis Musical”

Chris Harmon, “The Mystery of Edwin Drood”

Doug Lloyd, “The Spitfire Grill”

Craig Smith, “A Piece of My Heart”

Ensemble

The casts of “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee,” “The Boys Next Door,”

“Seussical” and “The Spitfire Grill”

Lighting Design

John Falkenbach, “The Spitfire Grill” and “The Sugar Witch”

Jason Vogel, “A Piece of My Heart”

Musical Direction

Dr. James Tipps, “The Mystery of Edwin Drood”

Properties

Adrienne Niess and Ann Meyer, “Seussical”

Blake Senseman, “The Sugar Witch”

Set Design

Bruce Brown, “The Octette Bridge Club” (Beavercreek Community Theatre), “Seussical” and “The Spitfire Grill”

John Falkenbach, “Mid-Life: The Crisis Musical”

Chris Harmon, “La Cage aux Folles” and “The Mystery of Edwin Drood”

Craig Smith, “A Piece of My Heart”

Greg Smith, “The Boys Next Door” and “Precious Heart”

Set Dressing

Wendi Michael, “Precious Heart”

Blake Senseman and Natasha Randall, “The Boys Next Door”

Sound Design

Craig Roberts, “The Boys Next Door”

K. L. Storer, “The Sugar Witch”

Special Acknowledgement

Greg Smith (hair/wig design), “Ravenscroft”

Jane’s Best Bets (8/17 – 8/21)

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Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

With several schools starting back up this week, it means the end of summer for many.  However, it doesn’t mean that you can’t still have fun!  Here are a few options!

On Wednesday after a long day of work, enjoy a beverage at one of these great establishments:   Archer’s for their A.Y.O.B., in which they tap a new beer each Wednesday; The Wine Gallery for their Weekly Wine Tasting; or Rumbleseat Wine for their Beer Tasting with Beer Guru Charles.  If the weather is nice, then listen to Jazz on the Green at Yankee Trace or watch the Dayton Dragons play the Great Lakes Loons at Fifth Third Field.

On Thursday, take a lunch break and head to Courthouse Square for The Square Is Where featuring the Raks Devi Belly Dancers.  Support local farmers by making a stop at the Centerville Farmers Market.  Listen to live music at the Dayton Art Institute for their Twilight Concert or at RiverScape for their Big Band Nights featuring the Bob Gray Orchestra.  Support a great cause (United Rehabilitation Services) by attending the URS Wine Tasting at the Dayton Racquet Club.  I love their amazing views!  Test your hand at cornhole with the Weekly Cornhole Tournament at Wings Sports Bar & Grille.  And rounding out the lineup for Thursday…make a trip to Fifth Third Field to watch the Dragons play the Great Lakes Loons.

On Friday, there will again be entertainment during the lunch hour at Courthouse Square with The Square Is Where, featuring the Steven Gregory Trio.  Beer lovers have a few options, including the Beer Tasting at Arrow Wine (Centerville location) or the AugtoberFest Craft Beer Tasting at Taj Ma Garaj.  If wine is more your thing, then sip a glass or two (or three) at the Wine Tasting at Belmont Party Supply.  If you want to head to Vegas but don’t have the funds, consider playing Texas Hold ‘Em or Black Jack at the Dayton Rugby Club’s Monte Carlo Grill Festival.  Listen to live music for the Teen Music Slam competition at RiverScape.  Right around the corner at Fifth Third Field you will be able to see the Dragons play the Great Lakes Loons.  In Yellow Springs, check out the gallery openings, shops, and restaurants, all the while listening to live music and watching fire dancers as part of Fling in the Springs.  And if you enjoy Alfred Hitchcock movies, then make your way to Victoria Theatre to see Rear Window as part of the Michelob Ultra Cool Films Series.

On Saturday, enjoy the nice weather with Zumba in the Park at RiverScape.  If you’re corny like me, then make your way to the Fairborn Sweet Corn Festival or to Ele Cake Company in order to decorate your own corn on the cob cupcake.  I assure you…both of these events are no joke!  If you’re a man and have a best friend, then take him/her to the Doggie Dash ‘N Splash Fest at the Greene County Fairgrounds.  Speaking of animals, if you like crabs, then you can enjoy them at Jay’s Seafood for their Crabfest Wine Luncheon.  Support breast cancer awareness by participating in Pints, Putters & Pink Balls at Kittyhawk Golf Center.  And remember…real men wear pink!  Or support the American Cancer Society by attending the Dayton Cattle Barons Ball, which will feature dancing, auctions, gourmet Tex-Mex cuisine, and much more!

Also on Saturday…beer lovers should attend The Greene’s Beer Tasting in preparation for AleFest next weekend.  And there is also something for wine lovers – Jungle Jim’s will be hosting 90 Point Wines under $15.  Plus, A Taste of Wine and T.J. Chumps in Miamisburg will be having Dancing in the Street for all you wine, food, dancing, and/or live music lovers.  For a family friendly event, make your way to Fifth Third Field for Donato’s Pizza Family Movie Night, where the movie How to Train Your Dragon will be shown.  Get out your grass skirts and coconut bras and make your way to the Miami Valley Fair Housing Center’s Waikiki Party at Sinclair’s Ponitz Center.  All you groovy dudes should be sure to get your tickets to Hippiefest at the Fraze.  And if you’re up in Yellow Springs, Fling in the Springs will still be going on!

On Sunday, once again make your way to the Fraze for WTUE’s Breakfast with The Beatles and Beatlemania Magic.  Bring your kid/s to the Dayton Convention Center for the Barber and Stylist Cut-Off for a free back-to-school haircut (just be sure to pick up a voucher in advance).  At Victoria Theatre, watch Rear Window as part of the Michelob Ultra Cool Films Series.  You will be able to catch live music at RiverScape with 91.3 WYSO’s Concert or at Stubbs Amphitheater to see the band Legend.  And finally, help kick off Dayton Beer Week with the Beer Pride Parade in the Oregon District!

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

Two hydrogen atoms walk into a bar. One says, “I’ve lost my electron.” The other says, “Are you sure?” The first replies, “Yes, I’m positive…”

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

Have a great week Dayton!

Men For Sale… (for a good cause, of course)

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For those ladies out there that want to give to a good cause AND get a date out of it, the Dayton Racquet Club is the place to be this Friday August 19th as PUSH holds their second annual Men in the City Bachelor Auction event where 17 eligible bachelors will be sold… er, “auctioned” off to the highest bidders.  Oh yeah – your’s truly will be one of those eligible bachelors, and I promise a nice evening out for the woman who bids the highest amount for me!  (Did I just actually write that?)  Well, it is for a good cause so if you need no further info then just buy your auction tickets here; otherwise continue reading AND THEN buy your tickets!

Checking out the goods at the 2010 Bachelor Auction

PUSH (Professionals United for Sexual Health) is a group that formed two and a half years ago to engage the next generation of volunteers and supporters in education, outreach and fundraising efforts for Planned Parenthood.  PUSH raises money specifically for its free condom program (over 80 thousand condoms have been distributed in 23 Ohio counties since its inception) and for a comprehensive health educator position that covers the entire Miami Valley.  Their first Bachelor Auction took place last year and was a great success, and organizers hope that this year will be even better – which should be no problem since your’s truly will be in this year’s auction.  Yes, I just wrote that.

The doors open at 7pm at the Dayton Racquet Club (top floor of the Kettering Tower in Downtown Dayton – best views in town!) and tickets cost only $20 – and only $15 if you purchase your tickets in advance.  Advance ticket purchasers will double their door-prize chances and the first 100 to buy tickets will get a sweet swag bag (settle down, I said SWAG not SHAG) so you’ll want to get those tickets in advance.  Not to mention that last year’s event sold out!

Each man comes with (I can’t believe I just wrote that) a dinner at a local restaurant and “activity” package, with activities ranging from couple’s massages to rock climbing – all donated by generous area businesses.  I’ll assume that a free hotel room is probably not one of the donated activities but who knows.

So who will you ladies be bidding on?  Well here is the list – and yes I will shamelessly start with myself (click on each picture for a whole profile including IQ, Income Bracket and Bicep Measurements).  I’m very sure the auction night will be a blast, much money will be raised… and I’m praying that I go for more than the minimum bid.  So come out and help a good cause – and my ego!  Buy your tickets today!

Bill Pote | Age 40

Bill Pote | Age 40

Nikolas Hunt | Age 27

Thomas Porter | Age 28

Jeremy Roadruck | Age 36

Jeremy Roadruck | Age 36

Troy Singer | Age 45

Troy Singer | Age 45

Larry "Lorenzo" Imundo | Age 37

Larry "Lorenzo" Imundo | Age 37

Luke Notestine | Age 29

Luke Notestine | Age 29

Josh Zehnder | Age 33

Josh Zehnder | Age 33

Derek Smith | Age 30

Derek Smith | Age 30

Andy Sedlak | Age 23

Andy Sedlak | Age 23

Frye Guy | Age 31

Frye Guy | Age 31

John Drake | Age 55

John Drake | Age 55

Ben Czajka | Age 34

Ben Czajka | Age 34

Bill Draugelis | Age 44

Bill Draugelis | Age 44

Charles “Chuck” Hiatt | Age 51

Charles “Chuck” Hiatt | Age 51

Rich Wirdzek | Age 32

Rich Wirdzek | Age 32

Tom Helbig | Age 37

Tom Helbig | Age 37

A Little (Miami River) group makes a big difference

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The Little Miami River Keepers are up for a grant and you can help.

Do you know the Little Miami River Keepers? They have a great story of a simple initiative among neighbors that has grown into a major volunteer project attracting national attention. And – they need your help with a simple click.

The River Keepers are in the running for a grant from Tom’s of Maine – if they end up in the top 6 (currently they’re at 13, so you need to get clickin’), they will receive some much needed funding. Click here to vote for them. Learn more about why below.

I spoke to River Keepers Founder Steve Knopp and Barry Tiffany, Sugarcreek Township Administrator and all-around volunteer for the River Keepers, to learn more about this great initiative; they shared with me their history and future plans.

Barry started the conversation by sharing the story of neighbors who care enough to do something. Steve Knopp loves being out on the river to fish (although he admits he rarely catches much), but he doesn’t like to see the trash. Hope Taft (Former First Lady of Ohio) and her family use the river for relaxation and recreation, and each time they’re out, they do their small part to pick up some trash as they ride. These neighbors started talking about their vision for a cleaner environment and decided to do something about the trash that was damaging the river. In 2010, Steve and Hope arranged approximately 60 volunteers who came together to cover 7 miles of the river and pick up one ton of trash.

Yeah, that's a 40 ft. long wire getting pulled out of the river

Everyone was hooked on the great success and what a difference people working together could make. So they did it again in 2011 – only bigger!

This July, the initiative grew. The Little Miami River Keepers – in partnership with other river protection organizations across the region – orchestrated a clean-up of  400+ volunteers covering all 105 miles of the Little Miami (from its source in Clark Co. to the southern tip where it meets the Ohio River) and they collected 10-15 tons (20-30,000 pounds) of trash – everything from Styrofoam cups and plastic bags to hundreds of tires and multiple television sets. Barry and Steve shared a unique clean-up story: They were in a group that pulled out a 28 foot wrought iron utility pole (weighing approx 300 lbs) out of the river. Being unsure how to deal with it in the canoes (and after losing it a few times), Barry hopped on and rode it down the river to a point where they could get it out.

I asked Barry how the river gets so dirty. He explained that the challenge is never-ending. Some trash accumulates from drains washing into the tributaries and making their way to the river, some trash is from people in canoes who tip over and everything floats away, and other trash is specifically dumped. One team of volunteers who started their clean-up by a bridge in Greene County found 5 TV sets dumped down by the river – presumably just tossed out of cars. They lugged the sets up to the side of the road for pick-up and began work. So many tires were found during the clean-up because even when fully submerged, the tires just go with the flow of the water until hung up by a tree root or something that stops it. Broken glass is a major concern due to the danger element.

Some of the grossness that came out of the river. Now imagine 15 tons of it. Ick.

River cleanliness is important to different people for different reasons. Talking to Barry, you can feel a pride in his voice for the Miami Valley and the region. He wants to highlight one of the great natural resources that’s available here. Steve thinks of the river as Dayton’s own amusement park. He says, “You can take your kids, grandkids, friends – and for absolutely zero cost you can enjoy what the river has to offer – fishing,  canoeing, picnicking, you can take your own intertube and just have a blast with a group of friends.” But more than just having a fun time in the river, he knows the value of making a recreation spot clean. He continues, “When you visit the (amusement) park, they’re pristine clean and there’s no trash. Now imagine going to the Little Miami with styrophoam and a car turned upside down.” He knows trash in the river isn’t going to attract fun-seekers, so he wants to clean it up to get it to its “complete natural state.” Steve said that he’s a much more visual person, whereas Hope can tell you the types of fish and the number of species and what’s happening in the river as a natural environment. Everyone has their reason for wanting it clean, but getting the job done is what’s most important.

Barry said that the River Keepers are doing what they can to create awareness and encourage people to stop dumping, but he acknowledges that it’ll always be a problem. So – the focus of the River Keepers is to clean. In doing so, they have applied to Tom’s of Maine for a grant. The six organizations from across the county who are voted to win will each receive financial support. If they win the $10,000, that will support an individual clean-up project. If they come out as the big winner of the $50K, they will be able to turn it into a trust for the long-term success of the group.

Are you telling me you don't see government officials riding poles down the river everyday?

Why would the organization need so much money for a few volunteers to clean up the river? It’s a major undertaking that needs more than just manpower. In addition to the supplies each volunteer needs, the renting of the canoes, and the River Keepers plan to make a major impact by bringing in some big machinery. According to Steve, even though they’ve picked up a lot of trash – there’s easily ten times the debris still in the river. So much of the trash is large-scale and can’t be handled by canoes – they’ve found old cars that have been in the river for over 20 years, dozens of 55-Gallon barrel drums, big truck tires (with rims), a hot tub and a dumpster among the larger items to be pulled out of the river. The grant from Tom’s of Maine will help fund this major endeavor by allowing them to contract with construction companies who can pull out these large items and cover the expenses incurred by private residents who have their property damaged when a back-hoe drives through “Farmer Joe’s” field pulling out an old car.

So, help out a great initiative of neighbors banning together and making a major difference for all of us who enjoy the over 100 miles of what the Little Miami has to offer. Vote today (and tomorrow, and everyday until voting ends).

Learn more:

Info on the Little Miami State and National Scenic River – the first river to receive that official designation from the State of Ohio.

Get info about the River Keepers on their Facebook page or their Web site.

And don’t forget to VOTE for them to win the grant!

Jane’s Best Bets (8/10 – 8/14)

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Guest Bartending Last Week at The Moraine Embassy!

There are lots of great things going on this week in Dayton, so let’s jump right into it!

On Wednesday, support DATV by attending the DATV Fishing Derby at Gettysburg Fish Lake.  If you’re like me and can only draw stick people, then you may want to attend the Drawing Studio with Loretta Puncer at Gallery 510 Fine Art.  Head to Courthouse Square to see the Blue Sky Project ‘Artists without Borders’ Solo Exhibition.  No matter what you’ve been thinking about the national debt crisis, you will be able to share your opinions at ThinkTV with their Citizens Forum on the National Debt.  Over at Chappy’s, participate in their Southern Tier Creme Brulee Tapping…sounds delicious!  There are also some great musical options for Wednesday!  You can see Muse Machine in Concert as they perform ‘Tonight’ at Victoria Theatre, Alien Ant Farm at McGuffy’s House of Rock, or Miranda Cosgrove at the Fraze.

On Thursday, make your way to Courthouse Square for the The Square Is Where featuring Beseda Folk Dancers.  Enjoy fresh local produce at the Centerville Farmers Market.  If you have young kids, consider taking them to Story Hour at Cooper Park or to the Salvation Army Kroc Center for the Shoot! Score! Success! Back2School Family Event.  Both are FREE!  If you enjoy good food, you will not want to miss The Taste of The Greene, which will feature great food from The Greene’s wonderful restaurants.  And be sure to get your tickets in advance in order to get the discounted price!  Meet some great young professionals at Generation Dayton’s Thirsty Thursday at Milano’s on Brown Street.  If you Muse Machine in Concert - TONIGHT: The Songs of West Side Story & Moredidn’t get to see the Muse Machine’s ‘Tonight’ performance on Wednesday, then tonight is definitely the night!  Or catch live music at the Dayton Art Institute for their Twilight Concert, at RiverScape for Big Band Nights featuring the Hal Harris Orchestra, or at the Fraze to see Willie Nelson.

On Friday, during your lunch hour, head to Courthouse Square for The Square Is Where featuring Mindy Galvin Band…just don’t be a square and not attend.  If you see food and then enjoy eating it, you’ll want to attend the Seafood Extravaganza at The Dock.  And if seafood is not your thing, then make your way to Oregon Express for their amazing Half-Price Happy Hour Pizzas.  Although the end of summer is drawing near, you will be able to see A Midsummer Night Dream which is being presented by Free Shakespeare at the University of Dayton’s ArtStreet.  Make your way to Fifth Third Field for Friday Night Fights.  At Victoria Theatre, see The African Queen as part of the Michelob Ultra Cool Films Series.  And finally, get a brat (the food kind) and drink some German beer at the Germanfest Picnic, which is being held at Carillon Park.

On Saturday, get fresh local produce with City Beets at the Market at the PNC 2nd Street Market or at the Troy Farmers Market.  I don’t know how to say the name of this wine, but if you like Sauvignon Blanc, then make your way to Jungle Jim’s for their Sauvignon Blancs of the World tasting.  Speaking of wine, the Fraze will be hosting the Festival of the Vine, which will feature fine wine and cool jazz.  Help make history by bringing a canned good to Brixx for their Canned Food Drive and possibly setting a new Guinness World Record for the most food collected in a 24 hour period.  Head up to Boston’s Bistro for their 10th Semi-Annual Greek Night or to the Dayton Visual Arts Center for the High-Rise Harmony Artist Palate Party.  At Carillon Park, join the many Germans (and wannabe Germans) drinking German beer and eating German food as part of the Germanfest Picnic.  At Stubbs Amphitheater, listen to the Centerville Community Band.  Watch Free Shakespeare’s presentation of A Midsummer Night Dream at the University of Dayton’s ArtStreet.  And finally, enjoy the summer weather and head to Fifth Third Field as the Dragons play the Lake County Captains.

On Sunday, all arts and crafts lovers should make plans to attend Art on the Commons, which will take place at Civic Commons Park in Kettering.  The Germanfest Picnic will still be going on over at Carillon Park.  If you didn’t get to make it to the 2nd Street Market earlier in the weekend, then perhaps you should go to the Garden Station Sunday Market.  Sit in the air conditioning at Victoria Theatre in order to see The African Queen as part of the Michelob Ultra Cool Films Series.  At the University of Dayton’s ArtStreet, you will still be able to see A Midsummer Night Dream presented by Free Shakespeare.  Catch the Dayton Dragons as they play the Lake County Captains.  And finally, there are a few opportunities for live music – Pizzazz in the Park Summer Concert Series: Jake & Elwood Blues Revue at Riverfront Park in Miamisburg, The Sauerkraut German Band at Stubbs Amphitheater, and The Charlie Daniels Band at the Miami County Agricultural Society.  Their show may be “the best there’s ever been.”

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

What do you call a bear with no teeth?  A gummy bear.

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

Have a great week Dayton!

Muse Machine Celebrates 30th Year with West Side Story Concert

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Muse Machine in Concert - TONIGHT: The Songs of West Side Story & MoreTONIGHT:  The Songs of West Side Story & More

Muse Machine

On Wednesday and Thursday evening Muse Machine, the nationally recognized educational arts group, will kick-off its 30th year with music from one of the most popular musicals of all time:  West Side Story. The local organization has gathered together over 200 local students, alumni and guest artists to present TONIGHT:  The Songs of West Side Story & More at 8:00 p.m. on the stage at the Victoria Theatre.

“The whirlwind, high-energy numbers will thrill you; the soulful melodies will move you; you can’t help but feel the joy of the show!”

-Kylen Franz, concertmaster

Muse Machine in Concert - TONIGHT: The Songs of West Side Story & MoreThe local arts organization has a mission of changing the lives of kids through the arts.  They accomplish this through professional performances both in and out of schools, arts integration training for teachers and student performance opportunities.  Over the years, Muse Machine has developed two primary performance programs, including the popular productions of a musical (winter months) and a concert (summer).  These productions showcase the most talented student singers, dancers, and musicians in the Greater Dayton region, under the direction of professional directors, conductors, choreographers and designers .

“We all work so hard together to make this a great show and the energy & love in rehearsals is incredible.”

-Rachel Snyder, singer/dancer

Muse Machine in Concert - TONIGHT: The Songs of West Side Story & MoreAs their 2011 concert presentation, Muse Machine (along with support from MeadWestvaco) will present Tonight: The Songs of West Side Story & More on August 10 and 11 at the Victoria Theatre. Tonight features new concepts and arrangements of many favorite songs from the classic Leonard Bernstein score, including “Maria,” “America,” “Somewhere” and many others. The show will fill the stage with nearly 200 student performers, who will also share the spotlight with alumni from previous Muse Machine productions.

“I love to be on stage and hear the audience clapping.  It makes me feel good to know they are having a good time.  And, it’s fun!”

– Ben Harshbarger, young ensemble (4th grade)

Muse Machine in Concert - TONIGHT: The Songs of West Side Story & MoreA highlight of the concert will be a huge student orchestra performance of “Rhapsody in Blue” featuring internationally-renowned pianist Leon Bates. Acclaimed by critics and audiences alike, Bates performs with symphonies around the world and the chance to see him bring to life Gershwin’s masterpiece with an orchestra of talented, passionate young musicians should not be missed. The evening also features guest appearances by talented, local gospel singers from the GSJ Youth Choir as well as nationally-acclaimed Stivers Jazz Orchestra and other special guests, including many alumni of Muse Machine productions.

Muse Machine in Concert - TONIGHT: The Songs of West Side Story & More“West Side Story was the first Muse musical, so it’s a way to glance back while also looking forward by bringing new sounds and choreography to this great music. We’ll be joined by exciting guests and we’ll also explore a few ‘related surprises,’ throughout the evening.” -Douglas Merk, producer

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yj0Mbq0Jcgo’]

What is the best part of being in a Muse Machine concert or show?

Muse Machine in Concert - TONIGHT: The Songs of West Side Story & More“The People. Everyone here loves what they’re doing, and that love of performing is evident in every single number…This is a show not to be missed.” -Andrew J. Koslow, singer/dancer

“The feeling of being so welcome and wanted…(and)  Rhapsody In Blue because I LOVE THAT PIECE OF MUSIC!!!” – Noah Berry, singer/dancer

“Meeting new friends and seeing old friends.” – Ben Harschbarger, young ensemble (4th grade)

Muse Machine in Concert - TONIGHT: The Songs of West Side Story & More“Getting to work with such great people on great material.” – Mimi Klipstine Dick, singer

“The close family connection of the entire cast/ensemble.  We all work so hard together to make this a great show and the energy & love in rehearsals is incredible.” – Rachel Snyder, singer/dancer

“Seeing or hearing the work come to fruition and eliciting the response from the audience.” – Kylen Franz, concertmaster

-SA/Muse Machine Press Release

– Muse Machine  Photos by David Sherman

We encourage local theatre companies to submit calendar items HERE, and official press releases to [email protected].

Tickets & Performance Information:

Muse MachineTONIGHT:  THE SONGS OF WEST SIDE STORY & MORE

at the VICTORIA THEATRE – 138 N. Main St.– map

Tickets for Tonight are available exclusively through Ticket Center Stage, 937/228-3630, online at www.ticketcenterstage.com or at the Ticket Center Stage box office in the Schuster Center in downtown Dayton.

About the Muse Machine:

The Muse Machine is a nationally recognized arts education organization, providing creative experiences and resources for young people of the Miami Valley. Since 1982, they’ve produced 27 annual musicals and 14 concerts for the community and engaged thousands of students through academic-relevant lessons, workshops and in-school projects. For more information, visit www.musemachine.com.

New trail connects Miami, Montgomery counties

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CELEBRATION, GROUP RIDES PLANNED

Photo by Elzora.com Photography

The Miami Valley’s regional bikeway system keeps getting better. Construction has finished on a portion of trail connecting Montgomery and Miami County’s bikeways together. The public is invited to attend grand opening festivities in Kyle Park in Tipp City. Group bike rides leaving from Troy and Vandalia will take place at 9:00 and 9:30 a.m., respectively, and meet in Kyle Park for the 10 a.m. ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, August 12.

The 2.5-mile trail connector is part of a regional plan created to make the region even more bike friendly. Cyclists and others using the trail no longer have to use the road and share their space with cars. “It opens up access to new, exciting rides and to the larger regional bikeways system, giving more people a chance to establish an active lifestyle and have more fun on bikes,” says Outdoor Connections Director Greg Brumitt. “This connector opens a key corridor to connect Miami County, Tipp City and Troy to Montgomery County’s bikeways.”

This initiative—a combined effort of Five Rivers MetroParks, Miami County Park District, Monroe Township, and Tipp City—was funded by a congestion/mitigation air quality grant from the Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission.

Miami and Montgomery counties are now linked by a continuous bikeway.

Bikeways have demonstrated a positive economic impact on the region, a trend Brumitt says he hopes will continue. “A 2009 economic impact report found our regional bikeways system generated  $13 million of economic activity annually by local and visiting walkers, hikers, runners, skaters and cyclists,” he says. “This trail opening represents continued progress in implementation of the Local/Regional Comprehensive Bikeways Plan adopted by MVRPC board of which Five Rivers MetroParks help fund and was a founding steering committee member. Both connecting trail systems are part of an even larger network of trails—the 1,440-mile Buckeye Trail state-wide loop and the 4,600-mile North Country National Scenic Trail, which passes through seven states, 10 national forests and more than 150 public lands as it winds from New York to North Dakota. “We are proud to be able to have this trail opening during the North Country Trail Conference, taking place this week right here in the Miami Valley, as trail enthusiasts from across the country get introduced to the great things happening in the Dayton region,” Brumitt says.

On Friday, August 12, the Miami County group bike ride will leave from Troy at the Hobart Arena parking lot near the levee gazebo at 9 a.m. The Montgomery County ride departs from the Tadmor parking lot at Taylorsville MetroPark at 9:30 a.m. Both groups will meet at Kyle Park for the 10 a.m. event. Five Rivers MetroParks Executive Director Rebecca Benná, Miami County Board of Park Commissioners President John Wannemacher, Monroe Township Trustee Ron Thuma, and Tipp City Mayor Dee Gillis will give a brief presentation before cutting the ribbon, officially opening the new trail connecting Miami and Montgomery counties.

New Musicals on the Rise

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2011 Human Race Festival of New Musicals

The Human Race Theatre Company

Encore Theater Company

This weekend, the Human Race Theatre Company, in collaboration with Encore Theater Company, will continue its ardent support of new works and emerging composers with a musical theater festival containing multigenerational appeal. Nostalgia is a key element in the Human Race presentations of the 1950s jazz-infused “Play it Cool” and an overdue salute to Grammy, Oscar and Tony nominated lyricist/composer Bob Merrill entitled “Love Makes the World Go ’Round.” Encore, fueling the popular trend of movies-turned-musicals, will let loose with “Pump Up the Volume,” adapted from the 1990 film starring Christian Slater. Each show will be delivered as staged readings at the Loft Theatre.

2011 Festival of New Musicals - Pump Up The Volume - Encore Theater Co.

Pump Up The Volume

“Working with Encore seemed like a no-brainer since (Encore founders) David Brush and Jim Farley were a part of the first Human Race musical theater symposium,” said Kevin Moore, Human Race producing artistic director. “Our festival lineup is very exciting. I’ve known about ‘Love Makes the World Go ‘Round’ for a while, ‘Pump Up the Volume’ is something Encore has had in the works, and ‘Play it Cool’ is really timely and relevant.”

“Play it Cool,” conceived by Larry Dean Harris and accented with a terrific jazz score recalling Cy Coleman and David Zippel’s “City of Angels” and Marvin Hamlisch and Craig Carnelia’s “Sweet Smell of Success,” was among the standouts I particularly admired at New York’s National Alliance for Musical Theatre Festival last fall. Featuring music by Mark Winkler, lyrics by Phillip Swann and a book by Harris and Martin Casella, the musical cleverly injects a noir sensibility into its charming, bold tale of five people who fall in and out of love at a secret 1953 Hollywood club called Mary’s Hideaway. The score includes such breezy numbers as “In My Drag,” “Baby’s on Third,” “Future Street,” “Curvy Time Bomb” and the beautifully lush “Jazz is a Special Taste.” Directed by Sharon Rosen, “Play it Cool” will arrive off-Broadway next month with Sally Mayes reprising her amazing performance from the NAMT presentation. Dayton audiences are fortunate to have a chance to see it first, in its re-written form, with a promising cast led by Human Race resident artists Deb Colvin-Tener (“Dirty Blonde,” “Lend Me A Tenor”) and Jamie Cordes (“Play it By Heart,” “right next to me”).

2010 Festival of New Musicals - Tenderly - The Human Race Theatre Co.

2010 Human Race Festival of New Musicals

The songs of Bob Merrill, who famously believed “people who need people are the luckiest people in the world,” fashion “Love Makes the World Go’ Round,” billed as a “revusical” (revue-meets-book musical) by librettist Duane Poole and music arranger Brad Ellis. Directed by Kevin Moore and centered on three women who connect through Merrill’s repertoire at a piano bar, “Love Makes the World Go ‘Round,” featuring Ellis and Human Race resident artist Katie Pees, incorporates 30 numbers including the songwriter’s catchy hits like “How Much Is That Doggie in the Window?” and “Mambo Italiano” in addition to show tunes from his lilting yet underappreciated “Carnival!” (which he wrote both music and lyrics) and legendary “Funny Girl” (music by Jule Styne). Merrill was also a ghost lyricist for “Hello, Dolly!” (“Elegance” and “Motherhood” in particular) and composed an ill-fated version of “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” starring Mary Tyler Moore that closed on Broadway during previews.

Ellis, familiar to fans of “Glee” as the silent choir room accompanist dressed in black, says investigating the Merrill canon to create a balanced tribute was an enjoyably challenging assignment.

2010 Festival of New Musicals - Play It By Heart - The Human Race Theatre Co.

2010 Human Race Festival of New Musicals

“I’ve loved the challenge of rolling up my sleeves, like the old days of off-Broadway, and coming in with strong ideas, then being ready to turn on a dime,” he said. “I’m proud of the arrangements, and I’m also proud that I haven’t lost track of the fact that I’m featuring the songs, not featuring the arranger. Bob Merrill has a surprising range of songs, emotions and musical feels, in part because his work as composer/lyricist inhabits such different worlds than his work as lyricist for composer Jule Styne. I don’t think it’s as much that he’s underrated as it is that people who know the extensive Broadway catalogue don’t know the even-more-extensive pop hits, and vice versa. Here’s hoping our show can bridge that gap, and make him a household name. His song ‘Beautiful Candy’ is in a big national commercial right now, and Seth MacFarland has used his songs for his TV show ‘Family Guy,’ so millions are hearing his music right now, whether they know it or not!”

2010 Festival of New Musicals - Tenderly - The Human Race Theatre Co.

2010 Human Race Festival of New Musicals

Since its 2009 debut on Fox, the Emmy winning “Glee,” created by Ryan Murphy (“Nip/Tuck”), has been a pop culture phenomenon offering a slew of fantastic musical moments (Kristen Chenoweth’s “Home,” Chris Colfer’s “As If We Never Said Goodbye” and Lea Michele’s “Don’t Rain on My Parade” to name a mere few). As the show’s music director, Ellis, who has written vocal arrangements for various episodes, particularly the pilot, has been pleased with his involvement since the beginning.

“I’ve worked with casting agent Robert Ulrich on musical projects for television before, and we enjoyed working together, so Robert brought me in when Ryan Murphy began casting ‘Glee.’ The three of us worked closely on actor’s songs when bringing our final choices to the network brass for approval. I enjoyed watching how Ryan worked with the auditioners. I think he was pleased with my ability to translate his ideas into musical choices for the singers as well as my gentle but demanding approach, which makes less confident singers feel more comfortable, and therefore, show themselves to best advantage, no matter their experience level.”

Ellis ranks Charice, Chenoweth and Carol Burnett among his favorite “Glee” special guests thus far, but views the entire cast and creative process as special. He also anticipates fresh possibilities for the series as Season Three approaches.

2010 Festival of New Musicals - Play It By Heart - The Human Race Theatre Co.

2010 Human Race Festival of New Musicals

“The cast is varied and magical people, who’ve maintained a sense of gratitude in a world where everyone wants a piece of ’em, and everyone else is telling them why they should have large egos, and instead, they stay grounded. A lot of that may be due to Jane Lynch, who is a visibly grateful person herself, and perhaps quietly sets the tone. It helps that Ryan Murphy is the modern equivalent of Jerome Robbins, combining an impish sense of fun with an unerring sense of both culture and craft. For me, Seasons One and Two have been an education in film. ‘Glee’ is shot on film with Panavision cameras, not shot digitally, so it has a lot in common with the way great movies and movie musicals have been shot since the 1930s. I’ve also really enjoyed watching my friends on the show evolve and grow. I’m biased, but I think the Class of ‘William McKinley High’ 2009-2011 (and beyond) will launch a lot of careers, similar to the first few seasons of ‘Saturday Night Live’ and ‘E.R.’ Corey (Monteith), Dianna (Agron), Lea (Michele), Matthew (Morrison), Kevin (McHale), etc., when they break out, will spread out like a billiards shot and light up big segments of the industry. Season Three? I have no predictions. When I read the pilot, I thought, ‘I love this! I am the audience for this, but it’s ‘niche,’ and will probably find a life on FX or USA network.’ I’m an idiot. Don’t go by me. I can say I’m excited about the new writers. Michael Hitchcock, the only one I already know, is one of the funniest, most honest actors I’ve ever had the privilege to work with, so I’m looking forward to some new ideas and surprises.”

2010 Festival of New Musicals - Tenderly - The Human Race Theatre Co.

2010 Human Race Festival of New Musicals

As “Love Makes the World Go ‘Round” continues to develop, Ellis remains confident in its prospects. Considering recent news of a Broadway-bound production of “Funny Girl” underway starring Lauren Ambrose (“Six Feet Under”), the timing, especially if a New York berth is in its future, couldn’t be more perfect.

“I’ve been fortunate to have helped create a number of very successful off-Broadway and regional shows (such as) ‘Forbidden Broadway,’ ‘Plaid Tidings,’ ‘Tin Pan Alley Rag,’ etc., so I know the markets. This show could be good business. It has small casting and tech requirements. Whenever I cast any show, I’m overwhelmed by the talent out there, especially women who would be great for ‘Love Makes the World Go ‘Round’ who are not working as much as they deserve, which means it won’t be hard to find great actor/singers for productions.”

2011 Festival of New Musicals - Pump Up The Volume - Encore Theater Co.

Pump Up The Volume

Based on the film of the same name written and directed by Allan Moyle, “Pump Up the Volume,” featuring music by Jeff Thomson, book and lyrics by Jeremy Desmon and additional lyrics by Jordan Mann, tells the story of a shy teenager who starts a pirate FM station in his parents’ basement. Directed by Joe Beumer, the show will feature Drew Bowen, Corinne Derusha, Renee Franck-Reed, Tommi Harsch, Justin King, Zach King, Matthew Owens, Elizabeth Wellman, Yvette Williams and Ray Zupp. Encore Theater Company will also present “The Consequences,” an indie rock-flavored love story about high school friends who reunite 10 years later. Written by Kyle Jarrow and Nathan Leigh, “The Consequences,” which has been developed at the New York Theatre Workshop and the Williamstown Theatre Festival, will be directed by Shawn Hooks and star J.J. Parkey, Amy Geist and Alex Carmichal.

Encore progressively continues to sprinkle local community theater with current, contemporary musicals. The troupe presented a delightful regional premiere of Jeff Bowen and Hunter Bell’s ‘[title of show]’ last season, and will tackle Duncan Sheik and Steven Sater’s Tony winning “Spring Awakening” in January, which will be staged by Encore artistic director David Brush. In addition, two projects developed by Encore last season successfully advanced. “Next Thing You Know” received an off-Broadway run two months ago, and the hilarious “Hot Mess in Manhattan” will open in Washington, D.C. later this year.

2011 Festival of New Musicals - The Consequences - Encore Theater Co.

The Consequences

“By the end of this season, ETC will have hosted five creative teams here in Dayton working on new material to take back to New York,” Brush said. “The process is working and ETC is thrilled to be a part of it.”

Brush is also ecstatic to have Encore join forces with the Human Race as both organizations strive to supply a productive and entertaining musical theater festival.

“Encore Theater Company is really honored to partner with the Human Race Theatre Company, who has really perfected the musical development process for the region. I personally cannot say enough for Kevin Moore and the entire Race staff for both their forward thinking in this area and recognition of what ETC is working to do.”

Musical Theater Festival Schedule

Thursday, August 4

10 p.m. “The Consequences”

Friday, August 5

7 p.m.   “Play it Cool”

10 p.m. “Pump Up the Volume”

Saturday, August 6

12 p.m.  Meet the Writers (Loft Lobby)

7 p.m.   “Love Makes the World Go ‘Round: The Songs of Bob Merrill”

10 p.m. “The Consequences”

Sunday, August 7

2 p.m.  “Love Makes the World Go ‘Round: The Songs of Bob Merrill”

7 p.m.   “Pump Up the Volume”

-RF

– Human Race Theatre Co.  Photos by Scott J. Kimmins

– Encore Theater Co. Photos by Ray Zupp

We encourage local theatre companies to submit calendar items HERE, and official press releases to [email protected].

Tickets & Performance Information:

The Human Race Theatre Company logoPLAY IT COOL

LOVE MAKES THE WORLD GO ‘ROUND

PUMP UP THE VOLUME

at the LOFT THEATRE – 126 N. Main St.– map

For more information, call the Human Race at (937) 461-3823 or visit www.humanracetheatre.org.

Tickets are $15 in advance and can be purchased by calling Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630 or visiting www.ticketcenterstage.com.  Beginning August 5, tickets are $20 and will also be available at the Loft Theatre box office two hours before curtain.

Encore Theater Company LogoTHE CONSEQUENCES

performed in the KeyBank building (lower level patio) at Courthouse Square.

For more information, visit www.encoretheatercompany.com

Tickets are $10 and will be available at the door.

Aug. 5 First Friday has everything from skatedecks to a scavenger hunt

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Looking for a different way to explore downtown? The Aug. 5 First Friday is rolling in with a night of live music, art shows and entertainment.

Broaden Your Horizons

First Friday will be the continuation of the First Friday Passport Program. Pick up a First Friday Passport at RiverScape and other participating locations (click here for a list) to win prizes from AAA Miami Valley, which each month will award two prizes of one-year classic AAA memberships, with free renewals for existing members. Everyone who enters for the monthly prize now through Dec. 2 also will be entered into a drawing for a grand prize of a $1,000 travel gift certificate.

The passport must be stamped by at least four locations, and visitors can get all four stamps during one First Friday or complete it another month. Once completed, they simply fill out their contact information and drop their passports in any of the First Friday Passport boxes that will be at all participating locations.

Get a Clue

The Aug. 5 First Friday is also the premiere of the First Friday Scavenger Hunt, an event hosted by volunteers from the young professional organization updayton. Teams of friends and families are invited to enjoy an evening packed with clues that include stops at some of downtown’s swankiest restaurants, venues and art spaces. Follow the clues to the final destination ― the First Friday After Party, where complimentary beer, wine and light snacks await everyone who completes the hunt. Clue sheets also will be inside First Friday passports.

Skateboards, Sculptures and Still-Life

Another featured event is the “The Art of Skate,” an art exhibit featuring skate decks and paintings celebrating skating culture past and present. Held at the Yellow Cab Building, 700 E. Fourth St, more than a dozen artists contributed to the project, including Amy Kollar Anderson, Rev. Chad Wells, Mike Guidone and Jason Goad, along with two California artists. The exhibit will be open until midnight, and the skate decks will be raffled later in August.

New to the city’s arts scene, the Dayton Arts Project will present local artists’ work, followed by a performance of choreography, dance and media at Sinclair Community College’s Blair Hall Theatre. Featured artists include Damon Sink, who will create new live music in a collaboration with choreographer Rodney Veal; choreographer Ashley Sass, who will present her work, Momentum; Tom Watson III, presenting his Stem/ReAssemblage series; and Ben Quinn, who will display five new large works in a mixed-media exhibit.

Additional art shows include:

  • The Blue Sky Project’s final exhibit will be showcased at 8 N. Main St. In this eight-week summer artist-in-residence program, five professional artists from throughout the world have worked with area teens in a collaborative art-making process that resulted in the new works of contemporary art that will be on display.
  • The Cannery Art and Design Center, , 434 E. Third St., will host Doug Benedict’s “Found Object Steel Sculpture,” along with live jazz, wine and hors d’œuvres.
  • Color of Energy, 16 Brown St., will present an introduction to the Record Gallery, a new store featuring collectible music items, along with new works by Mike Elsass and Bob Rhodes.
  • Color 2 Gallery, 519 E. Fifth St., will host Mike Elsass’ reception for the graduates of Stivers.
  • Dayton Visual Arts Center, 118 N. Jefferson St., will host its 20th Annual Open Members’ Show in the gallery. A selection of artists from the Members’ Show will give brief gallery talks about their work.
  • Elaine Balsley Fine Art, 523 E. Fifth St., will feature artwork by Stivers School for the Arts graduates.
  • Gallery 510 Fine Art, 510 E. Fifth St., will feature new figurative wood carvings by Marvin Olinsky and new still-life paintings by Nancy Hatton.
  • K12 Gallery, 510 E. Third St., will feature the work of TEJAS summer art camp students, as well as work by local painters in an exhibition centered on landscapes and showing films created by students throughout this year in K12’s first Film Fest.

Hitting the Right Note

In the Garden Station, 509 E. Fourth St., the Dayton Creative Circus Collective will host Free Music First Friday featuring a rare Dayton appearance by The Hiders from Cincinnati. After its 2006 debut, the band was named by NPR’s World Café as an “artist to watch.” Tim Pritchard of the local band Floods will open at 8 p.m.

More live music will be featured throughout the Oregon District. Check out the Trolley Stop, the Oregon Express, the Tumbleweed Connection and the Dublin Pub for a variety of performances all night. Additionally, Practice Yoga will be hosting the WYSO-FM Rev. Cool Around the Fringe Dance Party, and several participating First Friday locations will be playing the long-running radio show.

Rock Out

Local musicians Blind Karma will play the First Friday @ 5 show at RiverScape MetroPark. The concession will be open and beer will be sold during the performance from 5-7 p.m. The concert will wrap up in plenty of time to head to the galleries and other arts venues taking part in the First Friday art hop.

…And There’s More!

Celebrating its grand opening will be Clash Consignment Co., 113 E. Third St., which features items for adult women and men, including an eclectic and funky mix of vintage to modern clothing, jewelry, shoes and other accessories. The store also carries original work by local artists, and will be hosting DJs during First Friday. New to First Friday is District Antiques, 122 Van Buren St., which specializes in antiques, collectibles, home furnishings and artwork. Patrons will receive 15 percent off new items and 10 percent off consignment items during First Friday. Martha Mellon Interior Design Studio also will offer free 30-minute in-store design consultations. Visitors are asked to bring their room measurements, photos, fabric samples, and toss pillows and other accessories to help with the design consultation. A variety of roaming performers will provide entertainment (weather permitting). This month, catch The Dropbacks juggling duo, the Circle Nerdz breakdance crew, solo saxophonist Tyrone Martin, and accordion and violin duet Nathan Rogers and Liz Landis.

From approximately 8 to 11 p.m., many of downtown’s buildings will be lit for amateur and professional photographers who would like to capture night shots of the city in preparation for this year’s Downtown in Focus photo contest, held in conjunction with the Sept. 16 Urban Nights. Visit DowntownDayton.org for contest details.

Visitors also can get outdoors during First Friday for Courteous Mass, which will meet at Don Crawford Plaza in front of Fifth Third Field at 5:15 p.m. for a bike ride through the event action. Gem City Circle Walks will host two historical walking tours led by longtime local history buffs Leon Bey, Nancy Roach and Curt Dalton. An Oregon Arts District walk will begin at 5 p.m. and the “Ghosts, Cemeteries and Murders Walk of Downtown Dayton” will begin at 7 p.m. Each walk is $10 and advance reservations are required by contacting Bey at 937-274-4749 or [email protected].

In addition, all the restaurants, retail shops, bars and clubs, and other establishments throughout downtown will be open during First Friday. For regular updates about this event, follow First Friday on Facebook or text “FirstFridayDayton” to 90210.

First Friday is presented by the Downtown Dayton Partnership with support from AAA Miami Valley, the Oregon District Business Association, Clear Channel Dayton, Heidelberg Distributing Co., Five Rivers MetroParks, Culture Works and WYSO-FM 91.3.

The Downtown Dayton Partnership’s website has a complete list of downtown’s arts and cultural amenities, as well as a dining guide, parking map and much more. Click here for a complete list of events taking place downtown.

Add address – also, check for addresses throughout. Since this doesn’t start with the list, as in the release and brochure, there may be other places the address needs to be included.

Food Adventures recalls “Lost Food Gems of Dayton”

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Do you have any favorite food places that went out of business, and you still miss them to this day ?  Yeah, we do too.   How cruel to take a fantastic restaurant away from an addicted foodie.  This week, Food Adventures take a trip down memory lane and talk about some restaurants we miss in the Dayton area.  Please join us in this of recollection of Forgotten Food Adventures.  Feel free to comment and add some places of your own that you crave from time to time.

Here is our list of places that we wish had never closed.  Our “Lost Food Gems of Dayton”

BILL KNAPPS – We loved the chicken on a biscuit meal, also known as the elephant on the kids menu.  We also remember their au gratin potatoes as the best ever, served in a crock pot with browned cheese on top.  Ragu loved the clam dinner and chocolate cake.  We never forgot their incredible chocolate chip cookies.  There was a Bill Knapps on 48 near Loop Rd. in Centerville, and one by the Dayton Mall, and another near what is now The Greene.

Who else misses Rax?

RAX ROAST BEEF – We loved the salad bar.  We fondly remember the “BBC” (the beef bacon and cheddar).  The “BBC” proved the rule that bacon makes everything better but the cheese sauce made sandwich.  We frequented the 725 store that is now a Tim Horton’s

ROY ROGERS – We remember sitting in the little saddle chairs, and being addicted to the apple cheese crisp menu item.

WOODY’S GROCERY – The Big Ragu would tell you the bakery and seafood department was the best part of this West Carrollton icon.  Some however loved the deli with shaved fresh Corned Beef and Swiss on hard rolls with poppy seeds on top.  There was a cashier named Don Baker who had hair like Elvis that never changed for years.

WESTERN SIZZLIN STEAKHOUSE – We miss their beef tips

JED’S STEAK AND RIBS – Ragu remembers the salad bar had croutons that tasted like crayons, and their steak burger and ice cream bar were great childhood memories.  Jed’s was located on 725 in Centerville and is now a Goodwill store.

ROCKY ROCOCO’S PIZZA– We loved the chunks of roma  tomatoes on their pizzas.

JOE BISSETT’S GRUB STEAK– Remember the Princess Steak and a salad with blue cheese crumbles on top?  We also rocked the “kiddie cocktail” on North Main St, Dayton.

Free Ice Cream on your birthday

FARRELL’S – Across from Tri-County Mall in Northern Cincinnati, this place had a sundae on a stretcher. The staff  would sing happy birthday to people on kazoos.

GIRVE’S BROWN DERBY– a place where Big Ragu loved the salad bar, and kiddie cocktails.  Ragu also loved the kids fish dinner. .  Ironically, the Brown Derby on Bigger Rd. is now a gym.

COZYMEL’S –  They had great margaritas and you got lots of food at a great price.  This place was located on 725 near McEwen Rd. in Centerville.

RIKES DOWNTOWN– Childhood memories of the snack bar in downtown Dayton.

This timeless restaurant in Miamisburg, is now a “lost food gem”

PEERLESS MILL– The Miamisburg Restaurant with the old fashioned and old school menu was like Thanksgiving everyday.

 

LUM’S – One of our favorites.  They had hot dogs cooked in beer.  Lum’s was located where Marion’s Pizza is now, in Town and Country shopping center.

PEASANT STOCK – We loved the peasant salad.  Ragu loved the atmosphere at the restaurant in the Town and Country Shopping Center.  We also visited the Peasant Stock Café in Dayton mall

THIRSTY DOG – A great microbrewery restaurant on the corner of Alex Bell Rd and 48 in Centerville that served homemade chips in dog bowls.  Ragu loved the Raspberry Light Beer, while Jax used to enjoy the Robinson’s India Pale Ale served warm.

Shuckin Shack on N. Main in Dayton, Ragu misses you the most

SHUCKIN’ SHACK – Ragu’s all-time favorite place on North Main St. in Dayton.  They would bring steamed clams out in golf ball baskets.  They also had a bar you could sit and eat raw oysters and clams, and throw your shells into a trough.  Another thing Ragu loved was their peel and eat shrimp and fried smelts.

KEENG WHA – This Chinese restaurant used to be on the corner of Woodman and Dorothy Lane.  They served Ragu’s favorite Chinese dish of all time: “Princess Prawns.”

ELDER BEERMAN RESTAURANT –  They hosted breakfast with Santa and the Easter bunny at this place located upstairs in the Centerville store on State Route 48.  Ragu’s memories are going to the Friday night buffet with his grandparents.  This was a place where the waitresses were “real” waitresses and they had the same staff for years.

HUNAN GOURMET – A long gone gem that was on 48 near Whipp Rd.  Ragu loved this place, especially their dry braised shrimp and sizzling rice soup.  It is now a Caribou Coffee.

NOBLE ROMAN’S – We miss the real Noble Roman’s, the new restaurants are completely different.  We miss the hand tossed pizza in the window, monster pizza and the hand rolled breadsticks with nacho cheese.

Sambo’s was like a weird version of Denny’s

SAMBO’S – Ragu loved their pancakes served with boysenberry syrup.  This place was located at 48 near Loop Rd in Centerville.

ARTHUR TREACHER’S FISH & CHIPS – It was fried fish, so Ragu could live here.  The Jersey Mikes on 48 in Centerville is where one of the Arthur Treacher’s used to be.

CHICKEN LOUIE’S – This 24 hour chicken wing place is sorely missed on North Main Street in Dayton.  Ragu would risk life and limb by ordering through the bullet proof glass.  The related “Lou’s Broaster Hut on 3rd st had a special place in our heart.

FOUR’S COMPANY – After the Arthur Treacher’s closed on 48 near Whipp Rd in Centerville, this short lived place served up giant beer battered onion rings.   They were so full of beer you almost got buzzed by eating a few.

TOTENKO – This place on the corner of 725 and 741 near the Dayton Mall was like a 70’s verison of PF Changs.  A great restaurant until it closed because a food critic found roaches on her plate.  Ragu learned to use chopsticks here while wearing his “toughskin” pants.  This place turned into a Chi Chi’s which has since gone out of business too.

MARK PI’s CHINA GATE –The fried rice was addicting at the Town and Country location.

GROUND ROUND– Throw your peanut shells on the floor.  Ragu loved their all you can eat Friday night fish fry.  Remember the scale at the Wilmington Pike site where the cost of a kid’s dinner was a penny for each pound they weighed?

BAJA FRESH – The Big Ragu still craves their fish tacos at the now defunct Dorothy Lane and Kettering Blvd location.

Burger Chef was one of our childhood favorites

DOMINIC’S – The iconic location on South Main Street in Dayton whose manicotti was incredible.  The real attraction here was the house salad dressing with so much garlic flavor that you breathed fire for 2 days afterward.

PHIL AND JERRY’S FOOD-A-RAMA –  Legendary Centerville grocery that had annual anniversary parties where a hot dog and a coke were around 20 cents.

BURGER CHEF- To this day, Ragu craves the Big Chef sandwich and their “works” bar where you could load up your burger!

D’LITES- Healthy fast food!  We loved their burgers and smoothies at the location of 48 and Whipp Rd.

WESTWARD HO – South Main Street cafeteria style restaurant that had drink glasses as big as your head.

PO’ FOLKS – Fried food all over the menu, made this one of Ragu’s faves.  The fried clams and fried okra were so good.  The one we frequented was on the corner of Wilmington Pike and Dorothy Lane.

What places do you still think about? Casa Lupita? Joe’s is a Fish House? Tequila Willie’s?  Kettering Village Inn?  Let us know any and all of them !

Please visit FOOD ADVENTURES on Facebook. Check back every Thursday for a new “Food Adventure” article on DAYTONMOSTMETRO.COM

What restaurants do you miss? Please comment below !

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The BARD is on the loose!

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A Midsummer Nights Dream - Free Shakespeare! - Summer 2011 - Photo by Alisha McDarris

Photo by Alisha McDarris=

A Midsummer Nights Dream

Free Shakespeare!

In many communities around the world, a treasured summer activity is outdoor performances and festivals devoted to classic Shakespeare plays (Shakespeare Fellowship List).  Two of the most well-known in Ohio are  Cincinnati Shakespeare Co. which tours two shows in fourteen different parks and Actor’s Theatre which is celebrating it’s 30th season presenting shows in Schiller Park in Columbus’ German Village.  Suddenly in the past few years there is much interest in this terrific tradition right here in the Miami Valley, ranging from a small neighborhood troupe near downtown (Historic South Park – currently rehearsing for their 4th presentation) and the touring company known as Free Shakespeare! the brainchild of director Chris Shea.

A Midsummer Nights Dream - Free Shakespeare! - Summer 2011 - Photo by Alisha McDarris

“The experience with GreenStage was incredible. To have a free arts program not only survive, but flourish, for over twenty years, well, it gave me faith that the arts are alive and well. I want to bring that same energy here to Dayton. There really is nothing like a picnic and a play, and the price is right, too” -Chris Shea

Shea, a graduate of Kettering-Fairmont High School, spent time studying acting in the Pacific Northwest.  Inspired by the GreenStage Theatre Company’s offering of free outdoor Shakespeare, he decided to bring the concept to the Miami Valley in 2010 in the form of Free Shakespeare!  The troupe is described as a traveling community of artists with the goal of creating an event where people can rediscover the power and beauty of language and art.  Shea wanted to take the performances to multiple venues throughout the region over a series of summer weekends – and free to audiences.

Shea launched his vision for a theatre company in 2010 with Hamlet, which was received enthusiastically during it’s tour of four venues in Dayton and Yellow Springs.  2011 brings a new production, this time the ever-popular A Midsummer Night’s Dream. After opening last weekend at Antioch Amphitheatre in Yellow Springs, Shea and his team of 14 actors will continue to bring the bard’s best-loved comedy to Dayton stages over the next several weekends.  They can be seen at the Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark (July 29-31), Newcom Founders Park in the Oregon District (August 5-7), The University of Dayton’s ArtStreet (August 12-14).   All performances are outdoors and weather permitting and begin at 7PM.  Admission is free with donations accepted after the performance to pay the actors.

 

A Midsummer Nights Dream - Free Shakespeare! - Summer 2011 - Photo by Alisha McDarris

Photo by Alisha McDarris

The cast of A Midsummer Nights Dream includes Allison Husko (Titania), Chris Shea (Oberon), Will Hutcheson (Demetrius), Travis Cook (Lysander), Amy Brooks (Hermia), Megan Cooler (Helena), Kes-lina Luoma (Puck), Jason Antonick (Theseus), Lauren S. Deaton (Hippolyta), Zach Schute (Nick Bottom), Juliet Howard-Welch (Peter Quince & Peaselblossom), David Harewood (Francis Flute & Cobweb), Philip Titlebaum (Snug & Mustardseed), and, after a 48 year absence from the stage, Bill Styles as Egeus.

The group has recently partnered with Involvement Advocacy, an umbrella organization which fosters community initiatives. Involvement Advocacy’s partnerships include, among others, the Blue Sky Project and the Dayton Arts Project. Involvement Advocacy will act as Free Shakespeare’s! fiscal agent, allowing supporters of Free Shakespeare! to make tax deductible donations to the theatre company.

http://www.involvementadvocacy.org/On the partnership, Free Shakespeare! founder Chris Shea had this to say, “We are very grateful to Peter Benkendorf and the folks at Involvement Advocacy for their tremendous support of our organization. This partnership is the perfect bridge for us as we make arrangements to form our own non profit corporation.”

A Midsummer Nights Dream - Free Shakespeare! - Summer 2011 - Photo by Alisha McDarris

Photo by Alisha McDarris

“Our purposes shall be proud, our garments poor; For ’tis the mind that makes the body rich” The Taming of the Shrew, Act IV, sc. iii

-SA, Free Shakespeare! Press Release & website.

-Photos by Alisha McDarris (copyright 2010) – submitted by Free Shakespeare!

We encourage local theatre companies to submit calendar items HERE, and official press releases to [email protected].

 

Tickets & Performance Information:

Free Shakespeare! A Midsummer Nights Dream

Weekends through August 14, 2011

Tickets Prices: FREE (donations accepted after the show to pay actors)

Locations:  Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark (July 29-31), Newcom Founders Park in the Oregon District (August 5-7), The University of Dayton’s ArtStreet (August 12-14)

For more information about Free Shakespeare!  visit http://freeshakespeare.com/