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Rubi Girls Event Features Film

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Film is a powerful medium for education, advocacy and entertainment. Jonathan McNeal, who many know as the manager of The MakeUpNeon Movies downtown, is a filmmaker with a story to tell. He created a short that shared some of the stories of the Rubi Girls and their great work in HIV/AIDS awareness and entertainment. McNeal’s film is a centerpiece of a special event planned for August 3 – their Decade of Decadence Party.

The Rubi Girls documentary premiered in San Francisco in 2003 and has garnered awards and played around the world. In celebration of the tenth anniversary, The Rubi Girls invite you to their Decade of Decadence Party and Film Screening. Combining live performance, interview and archival footage, the documentary not only traces the history of the group and their madcap antics, but also attempts to redefine the term family values. The evening will include the film screening, a live Rubi Girls show and a Q&A followed by the kind of after party you’d expect to be thrown for this milestone event. The after party will include a DJ, a few additional Rubi performances, hors d’ouvres catered by Veritas Events, operator of Roost and Leo Bistro at The Dayton Art Institute, cash bars and other terrific Rubi surprises. (More info and tickets)

The Rubi Girls are Dayton’s beloved, comedic drag troupe…who now have helped to raise over 1 Million Dollars for HIV and LGBT-related causes.  What started as something just for laughs on Rubicon Street in the late 1980’s has blossomed into a FUNdraising phenomenon. FilmDayton spoke to filmmaker and Rubi Girl Jonathan McNeal to learn more about the evening and his experience with how his film has sparked conversation and advocacy.

Q: How long have you been involved with the Rubi Girls and what has your experience been like?

I’ve been with The Rubi Girls since the late 1990’s.  I was a fan first…a groupie even.  Once they found out I was a film student, they asked me to start videotaping their shows.  Eventually, as I got closer with the group, I started taking the camera backstage, too.  (Backstage was just as fun as what was happening on-stage.) After a year or more, I started to really become part of the family dynamic that was happening, and they eventually asked me to start performing with them.  Though I never would have asked on my own, it was what I wanted all along.
 
Q: How did the idea for a documentary come about?
I did research on a different documentary for about a year, and I determined it would be too expensive to pursue.  A friend said, “There’s a great story happening right in your own backyard.  It might be familiar to you, but it’d be a fresh story for a lot of people.”  That’s when I decided to start exploring the idea and asking if The Girls would be game.
 McNeal1
Q: Even as a group insider, did you learn anything from the process of creating the film?
I was still relatively fresh to the group when we started filming.  Though I had performed for almost two years with the troupe, I had missed out on over a decade of their evolution.  Asking questions and digging for answers taught me a lot about the history that I didn’t know.  In addition, the process of making the documentary helped me realize why the group was personally so important to me.
Q: Where has the film been shown and what kind of reception have you gotten?
The movie premiered in June of 2003 in San Francisco.  Immediately after that first screening, numerous LGBT film fests invited THE RUBI GIRLS to screen at their festivals.  That was a really great way to see the country…it played in Seattle, Chicago, Reno, Atlanta, Fire Island and many other cities.  Audiences loved the movie and loved the Girls, and a few awards were garnered along the way.
 
Q: What’s your feeling about bringing this film back to the public 10 years after its creation?
It’s great to bring the film back to the community where it all started, but interestingly, the movie has had continual play since its premiere.  Several colleges and organizations have used the film over the years for various reasons – either as an educational tool or part of a festival or celebration.
Wigs
Q: What’s the goal of the evening for you?
The goal of August 3 is true with the mission of The Rubi Girls.  We want to create a space that is vibrant with fun and creativity…that also allows us to spread the word about what’s important to us and our causes.  We always bring some component of HIV/AIDS awareness to our shows, and fundraising is a major aspect of what we do.  The Rubi Girls have now helped to raise over 1 Million Dollars for HIV and LGBT-related causes…and that’s something we’re very proud of.  The money raised during this event will be split between The Dayton Art Institute (to be used for sound upgrades in their auditorium) and RubiBenefits (to assist with a variety of causes that we support).
Q: And anything else you’d like to share/add?
The support of the Dayton community has been incredible.  The love from the press, the admiration and generosity from the fans, and the willingness to assist from so many local businesses has been instrumental to our success.  This embrace, combined with the success of the documentary, has allowed us to spread our message to numerous cities across the country, and I’m incredibly grateful for that.
Join the Rubis on August 3 to support RubiBenefits and help with sound upgrades for the DAI auditorium.

Help A Girl Out!

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1005258_721388947887012_759586437_nYour invited to an Open-House Fundraiser to Help Support the New RubiGirl Clubhouse!
Please join us Friday July 12, from 5:30pm – 7:30pm at our new pad. The Clubhouse is located at 1207 Wayne Avenue right next to Ghostlight Cafe! This will be your chance to see the magic behind the curtains, check out the closets and even see the wig wall,

In exchange the Rubi Girls are asking for a ‘Whatever You Can Do To Help’ Donation at the door to help us keep our mission of ending HIV alive and well! Comprised of elementary school teachers, a clinical counselor, a filmmaker and business owners, the group began performing for one another in an attic during college. What started on Rubicon Street has turned into a group with a cult following that have raised over $1,000,000 for HIV and LGBT causes with their annual Show Must Go On and performances and even a film!

Come join the Fun!
Bring your camera as we will be in full face!
‘Help A GIRL OUT!’
 and see this magnificent new Home to Dayton’s Fabulous RUBIGIRLS!

Brides Against Breast Cancer Charity Wedding Gown Sale

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Brides-logo-with-tagBrides Against Breast Cancer contributes to programs for cancer patients, their families and caregivers. They are bringing the “Nationwide Tour of Gowns” to the Hilton Garden Inn in Beavercreek  on July 19th & 20th to help ensure that people impacted by cancer have the resources and information they need in their battle with cancer.  Funds raised Durning the Tour of Gowns fund programs and services that are FREE to cancer patients, their families and caregivers.   Some of the programs include support groups, children’s programs, exercise classes and more.  Their goal is to ensure that no one in this country has to face cancer alone.

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There will be a VIP ‘Unveiling of the Gowns’ Reception Friday, July 19th from 6-9pm for a $20 tax deductible donation .
Enjoy coffee, tea, entertainment and giveaways. You will be among the very first in the Dayton area to browse through, try on and purchase your selections from our large inventory of gowns, before general admission begins!

The show Saturday, July 20th opens at 10am and runs through 5pm and admission is a$5 donation.  It will provide brides-to-be with an opportunity to find their dream Price_tagsgown – at an incredible savings, while contributing to services that provide education, information and outreach to men, women and children affected by cancer.  Show sales include hundreds of new, name brand and designer gowns, as well as lovingly worn gowns in various styles and sizes, and they also  offer a convenient layaway plan.  More than half the gowns presented during each event are new designer gowns that arrive directly from designers, manufacturers and bridal retailers.  Most gown prices range from $99 to $799 with designers gowns valued up to $3,900. Gowns are available in sizes from 2 to 24and they also offer accessories including veils and tiaras.

If you have already said “I Do,” please consider donating your gown to BABC, and your donation is tax deductible. Please download and complete this form to include with your donation.  Your donation will help contribute to programs for cancer patients and their families.

You can also volunteer to work the event, with shifts including set up which includes moving racks, setting up displays and more.  Or you can experience the joy of assisting a new bride as she chooses her “dream gown” during the shopping event. Groups of friends, co-workers or families are encouraged to sign up together.

Brides Against Breast Cancer will contribute $2 million dollars this year to help people impacted by cancer.  Among the numerous free programs supported are children’s programs, support groups, exercise, and nutrition classes.  Other programs include Camp No Worries, Cancer Education Series, and Ask the Doctor.  71 cents of every dollar raised from the Tour of Gowns goes to programs and services for those impacted by cancer.

 

 

McKenzie’s 8th Annual Lemonade Stand for Cancer

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ddn061710hzlemonade_714643aCan’t believe this is the 8th year for McKenzie’s lemonade stand. McKenzie has raised almost $20,000 for Alex’s Lemonade Stand. This year we are going back the where it all began at Bill’s Donuts and holding our stand in conjunction with National Lemonade Days, which is when Alex’s parents hold their stand too.
This is the first year that McKenzie will have a committee of her peers and they will do most of the planning! If you have any suggestions or would like to donate a raffle item please let me know.
The story behind it all!

When McKenzie was 4 years old I came home from a business trip in Las Vegas with a colorful butterfly pin. Attached to the pin was a letter from Volvo with the story of Alex and her amazing Lemonade Stands. Alex was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma when she was a year old. When she was just 4 years old she told her parents she wanted to have a lemonade stand and send the money to doctors to help find a cure. Alex passed away in 2004 at the age of 8 after raising over a million dollars by selling lemonade. Her spirit and drive to find a cure are continued on through her foundation, alexslemonade.org.
After hearing Alex’s story, at the age of 4 McKenzie said she wanted to have a lemonade stand too! This is McKenzie’s 8th year holding an Alex’s Lemonade Stand.
With your help she can break the $20,000 mark this year!!!

Comedy For A Cause at Funny Bone

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ok2We have all seen the destruction caused in Oklahoma by the recent tornadoes. Many have wondered what they can do to help. Well, it looks like you can laugh to help out.

No, we aren’t being mean. The Dayton Funny Bone is donating proceeds from not one, but TWO shows this week.
Thursday, June 6 and Sunday, June 9 the always hilarious, Vince Morris will be headlining these fundraiser shows.
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Dave Glardon will be the feature comic both nights. Chris Alan with be the emcee on Thursday will Adrian Cosby filling that role on Sunday.

The Funny Bone is even allowing 2 guest comedian spots for these shows. One slot is being filled by Tracy Cooper, and the other spot will be filled by a local comedian that is really trying to get the word out via social media. Who might that be? The organizers say they will award that spot who doses the best job promoting this show and they will  announce that soon (in the meantime, comics…they’re watching you).
Tickets are $5 each, and all proceeds will go directly to the United Way in Oklahoma.  If you can’t make it to one of these shows but would like to make a donation, you can call the Funny Bone at (937) 429-5233 and tell the ticket agent you’d like to “buy” tickets (at $5 each), but will not be able to attend.  That way they can take your donation, but leave the seats open for somebody who will be able to attend.  The club will also accept donations at the door if you feel inclined to give a little extra.

Best Legs Contest Benefits Clothes That Work!

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Best Legs Contestant Jim Danis

Twenty one men in the Miami Valley are macho enough to sport high heels to make their legs look their best, as they compete for the annual Best Legs contest to benefit Clothes That Work.  A local non-profit, celebrating their 15th year, CTW provides professional clothing and image consulting for job seekers in Montgomery County.  For $5 a vote you can help select the Best Legs.  Voting in the contest continues until May 10th and contestant Jim Danis is really taking the competition seriously, offering to put company logo’s on his legs for a $100 donation.  If your company is looking for some additional exposure at an affordable rate for a good cause, my legs are the place for them,” explained Danis. “Truly, this is a fun event and I’m trying to raise as much money as I can to help support Clothes That Work, because Clothes That Work has provided so much support to thousands of people in our community.”  He raised $200 at  Monday’s Dayton Rotary meeting  and shared that if he got to $500 Square One Salon has offered to wax his legs for free!  

The winner of the Best Legs Contest will be announced after the 6th annual Hunks in Heel race at The Green on Saturday, May 11th.  There’s still time to join the Hunk racers, with over 100 men scheduled to  race around The Greene in high heels in support of the important women in their lives. Event festivities being at noon on May 11. For a registration form, please visit:http://www.clothesthatwork.org/events-2/events.html.  Fans are invited to join the crowd for this fast paced fun filled afternoon.  As in years past, the patio’s of Brio and McCormick and Schmick will be filled with cheering sections for the teams of racers.   From past experience I’d like to share that often the shoe selection by the runners is often the most entertaining part of the event!  I’ll be calling the race along with event co-chair Todd Crawford and look forward to see what surprises the racers have in store for us.  Over the years,  teams have  come out in themed costumes, in drag, with with matching pedicures, who knows what we’ll see this year. 

You can also support CTW by purchasing a raffle ticket online or at the event  for $5  for a  “Do Dayton” Staycation! One winner will  win  a Dayton experience package that includes:

$100 Gift Certificate to Thai 9

Dayton Dragons Suite – Sunday July 28th

Hunks in Heels - 2010

Hunks in Heels – 2010

One Night Stay at Inn Port B&B in the Oregon District

3 Month Membership to Dayton Racquet Club PLUS $50 Dinner Gift Certificate

4 Tickets to the Warhol Exhibition at the Dayton Art Institute

A World Affair passes

$10 Gift Certificate to Deaf Monty’s Wine Shop at Inn Port

4 Tickets to the Vectren Jazz and Beyond series at the Dayton Art Institute

One Hour Massage – Square One

2 Passes to the Neon Movies

$50 Gift Certificate to Brim Hat Shop

$25 Gift Certificate to Oregon Express

2 Free Passes to Practice Yoga

$20 Gift Certificate to Serendipity Bistro

$20 Gift Certificate to Clash

2 Personal Fashion Stylist Consultations at Sew Dayton

Free Haircut at Derailed Hair Salon

One Free Piercing at Glenn Scott Tattoo

2 Passes to Muse Machine 2014 Musical

 

Salons Compete To Be King Of The Jungle at Cat Walk – Ticket Contest

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catwalk,jpgThis Sunday, April 28th, 9 Dayton area hair salons will strut their stuff in a hair show to benefit cat programs at the Humane Society of Greater Dayton.   Salons will compete on the CatWalk displaying over the top  hair designs and costumes designed to interpret the jungle theme of the event.   One of the salons will walk away as Ruler of the Jungle , bute the big winner will be the cat programs at the Humane Society of Greater Dayton.

Besides the  hair styling competition there will also be a fashion show by Clash Consignment, and fashions on sale for your pets as well as a Whiskers N Tails game where the entire audience can participate.

Tickets are just $35 for general admission, $75 for VIP, which includes a drawing for the use of a Jaguar for the weekend, donated by White Allen. Doors open at 6pm, show starts at 7pm at the Dayton Marriott Hotel located at 1414 S. Patterson Blvd. Tickets may be purchased online.

Take a peek at Cat Walk 2010, to give you an idea of what to expect:

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Participating Salons Include:

Elite Hair Academy     Settler’s Walk Salon and Spa     Graffiti Hair & Nail Salon     Creative Images South

Creative Images North     Miami Jacobs Springboro     Karina’s Euro Style     Tavernier’s Salon & Spa

Creating Waves Salon

DaytonMostMetro would like to send one of our readers and a guest to Cat Walk 2013.  Like this story and fill out the form below to be entered to win.  We’ll name a winner Thursday evening.

The contest is over and our winner is:  Megan Kelly from Kettering!

36 Local Artists Create Keith Haring Inspired Art To Benefit ARC Ohio

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WebLocal artist and promoter Matt Freeman is known for his inventive, unusual events. And this time he’s using that creativity to inspire local artists to apply their talents to design a piece of artwork to pay homage to 80’s Pop artist Keith Haring.  Throughout his career, Haring devoted much of his time to public works, which often carried social messages. He produced more than 50 public artworks between 1982 and 1crackiswack989, in dozens of cities around the world, many of which were created for charities, hospitals, children’s day care centers and orphanages.  The now famous Crack is Wack mural of 1986 has become a landmark along New York’s FDR Drive.

By expressing universal concepts of birth, death, love, sex and war, using a primacy of line and directness of message, Haring was able to attract a wide audience and assure the accessibility and staying power of his imagery, which has become a universally recognized visual language of the 20th century. Haring was diagnosed with AIDS in 1988.  Haring enlisted his imagery ignorancefearduring the last years of his life to speak about his own illness and generate activism and awareness about AIDS. He died of AIDS related complications at the age of 31 on February 16, 1990.

When Freeman put the call out to local artists to encourage them to participate in Art Salvo, A 22 Day Silent Art Auction to Benefit ARC Ohio, he originally hoped to get at least 20 participants.  Response was overwhelming, and the 30+ pieces of art on display at Clash Consignment Co, located at 521 E. Fifth St. in the Oregon District, show the creativity and talent of many local artists.  The exhibit debuts on Fri, April 12th and will continue until Friday, May 3rd, when all of the art will be auctioned off to benefit our local AIDS service organization.  Here are just a few highlights of what you’ll see:

Ben Riddlebarger:attachment

DMM: Where did you find inspiration to complete your Keith Haring inspired piece?
Keith was well know because he would take popular iconic ideas or situations and create new ways of looking at them. Well,I have always been a huge comic book dork since before I was born. I remember when I was in gestation and I would combine different particles floating around and mash them together to form different superheroes and make up stories about them, so when the time came to do an inspirational piece inspired by Keith Haring it was only natural for me to do the x-men and their villains. My work usually is painstakingly detailed and it was nice to be able to just create something that was a simpler design and aesthetic,  edit myself down to focus on basic shapes and to convey much more detail through just a couple lines and curves.

909406_10200866875535486_330747515_nKevin Pittman

DMM: How complicated was it to created a piece which combined your unique style with those of Keith Haring’s?
I wouldn’t say anything was complicated in a technical aspect of the work. Haring used a lot of repeated symbolism to express his messages. knowing that its really a matter of employing it… much like communication and how it first began… some people utter some sounds… the other understands it… then repeats it back… All im doin with this is trying to use his symbolism in a way to convey my own thoughts. My personal style doesnt seem work with this project so i abandoned it.

Tracy McElfresh

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(Model Leslie Randall, photographed by Shana Ramsey)

DMM: Where did you find inspiration to complete your Keith Haring inspired piece?
Vintage Vogue and Keith Haring inspired fabric and color!

DMM: Do you personally know anyone who has ever been directly affected by HIV / AIDS?
Yes I had a cousin by marriage pass away in “92

How complicated was it to created a piece which combined your unique style with those of Keith Haring’s?
I really enjoyed this project and it came with ease, I’m fortunate.

DMM: How long have you considered yourself an artist?
I have been exploring the art of dress making for 12 years

908419_10201114408607259_568754179_nLiz Dearth

DMM: Where did you find inspiration to complete your Keith Haring inspired piece?
I found a heart graphic he had done and make it and I thought it might be cool as a candle holding piece. The hearts and action lines of all the people let light pass through when a candle is lit within the wall sculpture.

DMM: How complicated was it to created a piece which combined your unique style with those of Keith Haring’s?
I may have failed that part! I make a lot of ceramic lanterns, this was my attempt to make an “interactive” haring piece of art, making “it” into a lantern.

Adam Reddingattachment-2

DMM: How complicated was it to created a piece which combined your unique style with those of Keith Haring’s?
It was somewhat complicated. In the end I felt that using some subtle cues and elements from his work translated well for my piece.

DMM: What Galleries / Venues have you been involved with, or displayed your art?

Rosewood Art Center, Dayton Society of Painters and Sculptors.

564745_438882036150542_1740611961_nRökenRõl 

DMM: What made RökenRõl  want to sponsor this exhibit?
Our mission is to provide the world with creative and authentic lifestyle street wear reflecting our influences, that made us who we are today.
At the heart of RökenRõl comes a recognition of the commonalities within us all, while celebrating our own unique individuality. This is what influenced us to create the RökenRõl brand and share it with those who have these same appreciations.

DMM: Whats next for RokenRol?

The future for RökenRõl looks bright. We are currently in the process of updating our web site and store. RökenRõl is producing limited edition skateboard decks from artists Jeff Richard and Mike Guidone and hand made belt buckles by artists Craig Tirey. We are sponsoring and cross-promoting with bands such as The Gas Light Anthem and Hawthorne Heights, and recently signed an agreement to create back to school products for international markets.  Those involved in RökenRõl have a passion for the co-creative process. From conception to the finished product we enjoy seeing our visions take shape.
As you can see here, there are many people that have come together to bring Art Salvo to life. So head out to Clash and bring your wallet to support AIDS Resource Center Ohio.  40% of new HIV infections  today are among young people ages 13 – 29. Funds raised will help them continue to offer FREE HIV/AIDS testing and work with our youth about safe sex and getting tested. Visit www.arcohio.org for testing times and locations and encourage a young person to get tested today!

The Artemis Center – Helping Victims of Domestic Violence

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Artemis LogoEVERYONE KNOWS SOMEONE WHO…

“One of these days he’s going to kill me.”  The caller seemed resigned to her fate.  The Artemis Center advocate who answered the Domestic Violence Hotline assessed the level of immediate risk and made a safety plan with the victim.  Calls of this kind are everyday occurrences at Artemis Center.

Just about everyone knows someone who has been a victim of domestic violence.  Research shows that one in four women will experience domestic violence in their lifetime.  This widespread issue does not discriminate.  It cuts across all races, religions, ethnicities, and economic backgrounds.  It may be your co-worker, neighbor, friend, or even a family member.  Most commonly victims are female, but occasionally a male is victimized.  Domestic violence is EVERYONE’S problem.

Photo Credit: APV- Portugese Association for Victim Support

Photo Credit: APV- Portugese Association for Victim Support

WHY DOESN’T SHE JUST LEAVE?

Regardless of the degree of abuse, it is never easy to leave these relationships.  Although abusers may be controlling and verbally abusive early on, most abusers do not become physically abusive until they are certain the victim is emotionally invested in the relationship.  Many victims tell Artemis advocates that their partner never hit them until: they got engaged, or the honeymoon, or she was pregnant with their first or second child, or after their child was born.

For various reasons, some victims will never leave their abusers.  However, most victims leave eventually.  Before she leaves, there are many questions a victim must consider:  How can I support my children and keep them safe?  Where can we go? Can we stay in the same school district?  Can we go to the same house of worship?

Protecting the children is often of paramount concern.  Research has shown that in many households where there is domestic violence, there is also child abuse.  When the abuser is a threat to the children, the victim has to consider whether the children will be safe if she and the abuser separate and will the abuser get parenting time alone with the children.

Once the abuser learns that the victim is leaving the relationship the violence may escalate.  This phenomenon is called “Separation Danger.”  The risk to the victim can increase significantly during separation and for a while afterwards.  Research has shown that 75% of domestic violence homicides occurred during or shortly after the victims attempted to leave.  The victim has to consider:  What will happen to the children if something happens to me?

Even after a victim leaves the abuser, she often remains at risk.  The typical abuser feels entitled to continue to abuse the victim because he tells himself:  “This relationship isn’t over until I say it is over.”

5K Stampede 2012ARTEMIS CENTER CAN HELP

Fortunately, Artemis Center advocates can help domestic violence victims and their children get safe.  Artemis advocates can answer the many questions and concerns victims have and suggest options.  The Domestic Violence Hotline is operated collaboratively by Artemis Center and the battered women’s shelter.  Victims can call the Hotline 24 hours a day seven days a week.  Artemis advocates answer the Hotline weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

For many victims, calling the Domestic Violence Hotline is their first step to safety.  Whether a victim intends to stay with the abuser or leave the relationship, an Artemis advocate will work one-on-one with him or her and serve as a source of support.  The advocates help victims understand that they have a right to be safe; that they are not alone; and that they have options to help them get safe and protect their children.  Artemis advocates can connect victims to community resources, assist victims with obtaining Protection Orders and accompany victims to court.  In addition, Artemis offers weekly support groups so that victims can support and learn from each other.  All Artemis Center services are confidential and free of charge.

YOU CAN HELP

If you know someone who is living with abuse, encourage him or her to call the Domestic Violence Hotline to discuss their relationship and get help with safety planning.  If you know someone with a child that is acting out as a result of witnessing abuse, encourage the parent to contact the Artemis Child Therapy Program.  An Artemis child therapist can answer parents’ questions and help children process the abuse and learn healthy ways to resolve family conflicts.

You can help victims indirectly, as well, by attending the Artemis Gala on February 23rd or another Artemis fundraiser.  Or you can simply make a donation to Artemis Center.  Artemis has a food pantry and a small fund to help victims pay for getting their locks changed and other relatively inexpensive safety measures.

Domestic violence is complicated.  Most people do not understand why a victim would stay in an abusive situation or the seriousness of the risk.   Often, victims cannot leave their abusers without outside support, resources, and the confidence to make a new life.  With your help, Artemis Center can help victims by providing support and resources and helping victims build the confidence they need to get safe and keep their children safe.

(Submitted by The Artemis Center)

2013 Mardi Gras Artemis GalaMardi Gras Artemis Gala 2013

On Saturday February 23 at 6:30pm, The Artemis Center will be holding their big Mardi Gras Artemis Gala at the Schuster Center Winter Garden with all funds raised at this signature event directly benefit local victims of Domestic Violence and help to ensure that Artemis Center can continue to provide all services  free of charge.  Tickets are $125 (table of 8 for $1,000) with raffle tickets going for $25.  Click here for tickets and more information.

Amber Rose hosts Donation Drive for Ronald McDonald House

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Long time Dayton residents know all about the Amber Rose Restaurant in the Old North Dayton neighborhood, just north of the Great Miami River. Specializing in Eastern European cuisine, which matches the immigrants who first settled in this neighborhood, the Amber Rose is a great Old World atmosphere, and delicious food. Dishes like Turtle Soup, Cabbage Rolls, Schnitzel, and more! They describe the restaurant this way:

The Amber Rose Restaurant and Catering specializes in homemade Eastern European Cusine including German, Lithuanian, Polish, Hungarian, Russian and Italian cuisines. Our bar is made of imported Turkish marble, perfect for having an appetizer and spirits with friends. Our beer and wine lists consist of exemplary, hard-to-find European beverages.  The building is located in the heart of Old North Dayton.  We also specialize in custom catering to fit any of your needs.

Just down the road from the Amber Rose is another place that Daytonians know about- Children’s Medical Center, and of course, the Ronald McDonald House, which gives parents of Children’s patients a place to stay while their kids are being treated at the hospital. What a great service these two provide local parents!

The Amber Rose has just announced that they will be sponsoring a fundraiser through December 22nd for the Dayton Ronald McDonald House Charities! This donation will be given to the families of the critically ill hospitalized children. Every customer that brings in a donated item will receive 5% off of their bill. Each additional item will constitute as an added percentage off- Up to 10%. 1 ITEM=5% OFF, 3 ITEMS=8% off *Only 1 discount per check. Not valid with any other discounts.

They are looking for items like canned vegetables, fruit and soup. Gift cards to Kroger, cereal, granola bars, and paper products, and you can find all the details on the Amber Rose website– what a great way to help a wonderful charity!

Cookies For A Cause

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Once a year you have an opportunity to indulge in scrumptious little bites of holiday heaven!  And that time is coming up on Sat, Dec 1st from 10am – 2pm for the annual We Care Arts Cookie Walk at the 3035 Wilmington Pike headquarters.  Visitors have the opportunity to stock up on holiday cookies while raising much-needed funds for the We Care Arts programs,  that help emotionally, mentally and physically disabled adults and youth achieve greater personal independence.    Through a variety of art classes and experiences, they promote the artist’s individuality, self esteem, community skills, ability to focus, life skills, responsibility, confidence and job skills.

 

How does the Cookie Walk  work?
Thousands of the most gorgeous,  melt-in-your-mouth cookies will be arranged on long tables. At the start of the cookie walk, you will receive a food service glove and a bakery box. Proceeding along the cookie tables, you select as many cookies as you want, in as many varieties as you want. At the end of the walk, your box (or boxes!) of cookies is weighed. The cost? Just $6 per pound.   Limited candy is available for $7.  Ms. Maples say, “We get such a wonderful array of cookies from high schools, chuches, colleges – they are just wonderful to us, it’s really an amazing event.”

How can you help?
Please consider helping We Care Arts by donating home-baked cookies for our event. The guidelines for donations are as follows:
1. Please contact Pat Maple at 252-3937 or [email protected] to confirm your donation to the Cookie Walk.
2. We’d prefer the cookies to be miniature, bite-sized (approximately 1-1/2”). Buyers feel they can get more variety if the cookies are smaller. If your cookie works better larger, that’s ok, we’ll take them all!
3. Make your cookies extraordinary! This is an event where people can purchase homemade cookies that they normally would not make themselves. Ethnic or unusual ingredients, dipped cookies, or a variation on an old favorite are big sellers. We also welcome diabetic-friendly cookies as well as bite-sized bar cookies.
4. Homemade candies and snacks are also accepted.
5. Please include a 3×5 card with the name of the cookie and listed ingredients to inform persons with food allergies. This card will be set out with the cookies, so please print! Also specify on your 3×5 card if the cookie is diabetic friendly or sugar-free. (If you wish to be contacted for donations for next year, please fill out the form below and return it with your donation.)
6. Cookies must be delivered to We Care Arts, 3035 Wilmington Pike, on Friday, December , between the 2hours of 10 AM and 3 PM. Please see their website for donation form.

 

 

We Care Arts is grateful for any participation you can offer. The Cookie Walk will help raise funds and awareness of We Care Arts while providing a fun (and yummy!) event for the community during the holiday season.  Please call We Care Arts at 252-3937 if you would like to volunteer to work at the Cookie Walk.

Buy a tree, help the homeless!

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Local business Berns Garden Center partners with and hosts the Homefull Holiday Tree Lot with all proceeds from tree sales supporting the programs of Homefull, working to end homelessness in Dayton. Opening 11/23/12 until sell-out, the lot features a great selection of Ohio-grown Fraser and Douglas Firs and Scotch Pines. Homefull staff, volunteers and clients who worked the Homefull Micro-Farm and Community Landscaping Program will be on-site daily to help customers.

The lot will be open Monday – Saturday from 10am -7pm and on Sunday from 10am – 5pm.   Click to get your $10 off coupon!

Berns Garden Center
3776 Indian Ripple Rd.
Beavercreek, OH 45440

Join the Rent Foundation for a “Nite at the Races”

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The Greater Dayton Apartment Association’s charitable arm, the Rent Foundation, is hosting a fundraiser this Friday.  The annualevent called “Nite at the Races,” and for $15 pre-sale, or $18 at the door, all of  your beer, food and soft drinks are included!  This popular extravaganza is open to anyone 21 years or older and promises to be a blast.  Attendees are able to place cash bets and win cash on horse races shown on the video big screen!  There will also be raffle tickets for sale with dozens of great prizes such as gift certificates, liquor and more.  This fun filled evening will take place at the IUE-CWA Hall at 1675 Woodman Drive in Kettering , November 9th from 6:30pm – 11pm..  A” proceeds from “Nite at the Races” will benefit the Rent Foundation.
What is the Rent Foundation?  This charitable group helps prevent homelessness by paying rent for families who are in crisis.  These are everyday families who are dealing with an unforeseen circumstance or a

family tragedy, and need some temporary help.  By partnering with the Greater Dayton Apartment Association (GDAA), the money raised will help benefit people living in those apartments communities across the Miami Valley.  The Rent Foundation also financially supports the Linda Vista organization. this is a shelter for homeless women and their children, where the residents are helped to find better lives.Greater Dayton Apartment Association
What better way to help real people in the Dayton area, then to attend this event for a great cause.  What a deal for drinks and dinner for such a low price.  It is a no brainer!
Pre-Sale tickets may be bought for $15 by calling 937-293-1170 through Thursday 4pm, after that you must pay $18 at the door..
Come support the Rent Foundation this Friday night and horse around!

Fetch a Fiat and Help Fido

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You could own this 2013 Fiat!

Can you see yourself driving a brand new Fiat? Now is your chance! Enter today and you could have a 1 in 1,000 chance to win a brand new Fiat!  Raffle tickets are $50 each and can be purchased online, by visiting the Humane Society of Greater Dayton, 1661 Nicholas Road, or by calling Jim Summers at (937) 262-5920. Tickets can be purchased through December 27.

 

Winner of the grand prize, along with four supplemental prize winners, will be announced on Saturday, December 29 at 3 p.m. at Bob Ross Fiat, 91 Loop Road, Centerville. You do not have to be present to win.

All Humane Society of Greater Dayton employees, board members, committee members and immediate families are prohibited from purchasing tickets.

Prizes include:

  • 1st Place: 2013 Fiat
  • 2nd Place: $500
  • 3rd Place: 2 VIP Tickets to the Humane Society of Greater Dayton’s Cat Walk on
    February 17, 2013 (a value of $160)
  • 4th Place: A Humane Society of Greater Dayton gift basket (a value of $50)

Employees, board members and immediate families of Humane Society employees are prohibited from joining the raffle and are not eligible to win any prizes.

A minimum of 600 tickets must be sold for the Fiat grand prize to be awarded. If 600 tickets are not sold, the grand prize winner will get a 50/50 cash split with the Humane Society of Greater Dayton and will not receive a car.

WSWO Announces Annual Record Sale Blowout

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Vinyl collectors, mark your calendars for November 10th and 11th when low power FM radio station WSWO will hold its annual record sale.  A wealth of music will be available for sale in an event that benefits the community station.

Local sponsors have donated various items for raffle prizes to raise additional money for the station, including a new USB digital turntable and record care accessories from Omega Music in downtown Dayton.

Known as “Ultimate Oldies Radio,” WSWO 97.5 & 101.1FM airs material that charted during the first 3 decades of rock and roll and is accented with jazz, R&B and cross over religious & country artists, also broadcasting Wayne Warrior sporting events and community based religious programming.  The record sale is the nonprofit station’s biggest fundraiser of the year; the rest of its budget is fleshed out by listener donations and sponsorships from local businesses.

WSWO is still taking music donations through November 1st of gently used 45’s, LP’s, CD’s & cassettes (no 78’s) as well as working turntables & jukeboxes. Donations can be taken to The Heights Cafe’ also located in the Huber Center, or arrangements can be made through the station.

 

How to Buy a Boyfriend

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Some of the Miami Valley's most eligible bachelors will be up for bid this Friday at the third annual PUSH Dayton Charity Bachelor Auction.

Some of the Miami Valley's most eligible bachelors will be up for bid this Friday at the third annual PUSH Dayton Charity Bachelor Auction.

Jennifer Shinkle tells people she “bought” her boyfriend. And it’s true.

Shinkle’s boyfriend was part of the September 2011 PUSH Dayton Men in the City Charity Bachelor Auction, and the two have been going strong since. This year’s event will take place from 7 to 10 p.m. this Friday, Sept. 21, at the Dayton Racquet Club, with an after-party to be held in the adjacent 29 Stories Lounge.

With 17 of the Miami Valley’s most eligible bachelors up for bid, organizers of this third annual event are hoping for yet another love story. After all, the Bachelor Auction is two-for-two: In addition to Shinkle, chair of this year’s event, PUSH committee member Monica Deal met her husband at the first auction, and they’re now proud parents.

But the Bachelor Auction isn’t only about love. It’s about sex, too — sexual health, that is. The event directly supports Planned Parenthood Southwest Ohio Region’s free condom program and sexual health advocacy in the Miami Valley Region. It’s organized by the all-volunteer PUSH Dayton (Professionals United for Sexual Health) committee, which has held more than 20 events and raised more than $20,000 for Planned Parenthood since it was formed four years ago.

“Our goal is to raise awareness about the importance of practicing safe sex,” said Crystal Justice, associate director of development for Planned Parenthood of Southwest Ohio Region’s Miami Valley area. The organization served more than 23,000 patients in its eight health centers just in the past year, Justice said.

“Our work to promote safe sex and access to testing is crucial to sexual health outcomes in the Miami Valley, which has seen a sharp increase in sexually transmitted illnesses,” she added. “Planned Parenthood makes quality care accessible and affordable for everyone.”

Each bachelor comes with a date package on which interested ladies bid. This year’s bachelors range in age from 22 to 55 and their occupations include business owners, dancers, a state trooper, writer, actor, meteorologist, entrepreneur and adjunct professor. Couples packages also will be available for bidding, so those who already have found their true love still can participate and support the cause.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0r8G3myEAB4&feature=youtu.be’]“Last year we raised about $5,000 with about 115 guests,” Shinkle said. “This year, we expect to bring in even more attendees and have a goal to raise $8,000 for the cause. This is a very important year for us because we want to establish this as an annual event the community gets excited about. There is no event quite like it.

“The event not only supports Planned Parenthood, those who attend the event can mingle with like-minded professionals from throughout the Miami Valley,” Shinkle added. “You will meet people outside of your normal social circles at the Bachelor Auction and make new friends.”

Profiles and photos of each of the bachelors are available on PUSH Dayton’s website, as well as on the organization’s Facebook page. Advance tickets are $20 in advance and can be purchased online, and tickets are $25 at the door. Appetizers will be served, and a cash bar will be available.