Dayton937

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

Getting Involved

Day of Caring Pancake Brunch All Over Town This Sunday

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Established in 1991 by Jan Venkayya, Day of Caring is a grass roots organization based in Beavercreek, made up of volunteers committed to increasing personal awareness and involvement toward confronting the ever-increasing national plight of hunger and homelessness. This years event will take place on Sunday, Feb 25th  all over town.  All proceeds from these Brunches benefit the local community’s Hunger and Housing Coalitions.

From the first pancake brunch with 12 locations this event has grown  to  locations in over 7 counties. As in the past, churches, community organizations, and public foundations host, prepare, and serve the annual pancake brunch.  “Each year, 500 volunteers get together to serve over 7,000 meals,” Day of Caring 365 Trustee Steve Pax said in a news release. “Those who are homeless or hungry find a generous support from our community during Thanksgiving and Christmas, however The Day of Caring Pancake Brunch takes the last Sunday in February to remind the needy that we don’t forget about them. We show that we care 365 days a year.” In 2012 the Simply Essential Hygiene Pantry was created and it currently serve 19 partner agencies in Greene, Miami, and Montgomery Counties in Ohio.

Brunches run on average $7 for adults and $5 for seniors (over 60) and children (under 12). Most brunches include pancakes and sausages, coffee and juice,  but each location put their own spin on additional offerings.

 

Montgomery County

American Legion Post 598. 1oam – noon
5700 Kentshire Dr., Kettering OH, 45440 | (937) 433-9327

Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church  11:30AM
500 Belmonte Park North , Dayton, OH 45405 | (937) 224-0601 

Honey Puffs in lieu of Pancakes

Community United Methodist 9am – 1pm
339 Meyer Ave, Riverside, OH 45431 |(937) 253-5169

Epiphany Lutheran Church 9am – 12:30pm
6430 Far Hills Ave , Centerville, OH 45459  |(937) 433-1449 

Grace United Methodist Church 10:30am – 1pm
1001 Harvard Blvd, Dayton, OH 45406 | (937) 278-4731

North Riverdale Lutheran Church  11:30am – 1pm
45 Kurtz Ave, Dayton, OH 45405   | (937) 275-5750   

Polk Grove United Church of Christ 9am – 2pm
9190 Frederick Pike, Dayton, OH 45414 |(937) 890-1821

Shiloh United Church of Christ 9:30am – 12:30pm
5300 Philadelphia Dr., Dayton, OH 45415 | (937) 277- 8953

Salem Church of the Brethren. 11am – 2pm
6037 Phillipsburg Rd., Englewood, OH 45322 |(937) 836-6145

Zion Lutheran Church 9am – 1pm
5550 Munger Road, Dayton, OH 45459 | (937) 434-9422

GREENE COUNTY

Abiding Christ Lutheran Church 9:30am – 1pm
326 E. Dayton Yellow Springs Rd, Fairborn, OH 45324  | (937) 878-2888

Lofino Center (Senior Center) 9am – 1pm
3868 Dayton Xenia Rd, Beavercreek, OH 45432   | (937) 426-6166

Xenia Adult Recreation Center 9am – 1pm
338 South Progress Drive, Xenia, OH 45385 | (937) 376-4353

Mosaic Church 10am – 1pm
350 N. Fairfield Rd, Beavercreek, OH 45430 | (937) 426-6491

CLARK COUNTY

Central Christian Church   9am
1504 Villa Road, Springfield, OH 45503   | (937) 390-2424

An-Nur Islamic Community Center 11am – 2pm
743 W. Liberty Street, Springfield, OH 45506

WARREN COUNTY

St Augustine Catholic Church 11:45am – 12:45pm
5715 Lytle Road, Waynesville, OH 45068

 

Shop THE MARKET at Town & Country To Benefit KNO

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The Kettering Noon Optimists have been hosting THE MARKET at Town & Country on the 2nd Saturday of the month from 11am-4pm since 2017.

When the mall did their remodel they committed to use the breezeway space to support community and civic activities.  Pam Cochran was the Property Manager at the time and was also a Kettering Noon Optimist member.  Unfortunately Pam is no longer with us but her spirit to support the community and children of the area is still alive.

The Market features local small businesses such as Susan with Got Cakes, Christine with Red Lotus Essence and Kelly with Au Faux Me.  There are also crafters such as Anthea with Chalk Couture decor and Sharell with Purple Mane.  Direct sales vendors include Jennifer with Paper Pie, Carol with Tastefully Simple, Chery with Color Street Nails, Carrie with Thirty One, Janell with Origami Owl, Tammy with Mary Kay, Robyn with Norwex and Laura with Mary and Martha.

Every month We Care Arts is a vendor at no cost to them.  Some months we have additional charities such as the Kettering Backpack Program, Goodworks Farm and Diaper Depot.  According to Barbara Farris, the Immediate Past President of the club, “The Market is one of biggest fundraisers for the Optimist Club and we are grateful that Town & Country does not charge us to use their location.  This allows us to keep vendor fees on the same level that churches and schools use.”

Farris shared that some of the activities of KNO uses the funds raised through The Market are  scholarships, an essay and Oratorical  contest, providing shoes for all Kindergarten students at Beavertown Elementary, sweat pants/shirts, socks and underwear to all the nurses in Kettering Elementary schools, supporting Crayons to Classroom and Kettering Back Pack.

Rum Tasting Event to Celebrate The Castle’s 30th Anniversary!

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Rum Raid for The Castle is a rum tasting being held this coming Wed, Oct 11th at The Steam Plant as a fundraiser for  The Castle,  a vital part of the mental health delivery system in Montgomery County. They provide a place for peer support, a place to have fun while learning responsibility, accountability and gaining some empowerment over the leisure time.

 

Ticket holders will have the choice to taste the rum straight up or mixed in a cocktail.Rum Raid for The Castle is a rum tasting being held this coming Wed, Oct 11th at The Steam Plant!

Some rums are made for mixing into cocktails, others are good enough to sip straight. This event will help you learn the nuances of  types of rum on the market. Age, distillation method, and even place of origin all work in tandem to create different varieties of the spirit, each with a distinct use, profile, and history.

 

Here’s an idea of what you’ll be able to taste at the event:

Spiced Rum– Broadly speaking, this popular variation is defined as any rum that’s infused with myriad herbs and spices. According to the Rum Lab, spiced rum came about as a way to make rum more palatable, since “fresh” rum packed a good amount of potency back in the day.

Gold Rum – Vanilla, coconut, citrus, and caramel are some of the tasting notes that you might find in a gold or amber rum, which hit the sweet spot between light and dark rums in terms of both aging time and taste. These medium-bodied rums get their color from added caramel or being aged in pale oak barrels and lean a touch sweeter to taste, with a subtle buttery richness that makes for a pleasant on-the-rocks sipping experience.

White Rum – If you like piña coladas, you probably like light rum (and maybe, getting caught in the rain). The most common type of rum, white rum is light in body, sweet in flavor, and has a pleasantly mild character. While it’s still made from sugarcane juice or molasses white rum is typically only aged for about a year.

Dark Rum – A well-aged dark rum boasts hints of brown sugar, toffee, and sometimes vanilla and honey, which lend well to enjoying the spirit straight to let each layer of flavor shine. You’ll find them in stalwarts like a Dark ‘N’ Stormy, Hurricane, or Painkiller.

Black Rum – First popularized in the post-Prohibition era as a cocktail mixer (the idea was to make it the base of a punch), black rum was meant to mimic the look of a deeply aged rum at a lower price point, according to Martin Cate, author of “Smuggler’s Cove: Exotic Cocktails, Rum and the Cult of Tiki.” The spirit is aged for three years in white oak and crafted with fermented molasses, so it offers much more body and interest.

Aged Rum – Aged rums get their warm, toasty hue from sitting in barrels for extended periods of time. Despite the labor in making this style of rum, it’s grown quite popular in recent years, taking its cues from the careful, regionally tied distillation methods of Scotch and whiskey, resulting in a nuanced, quaffable spirit. Of course, these rums are relatively rare by nature since they take so long to come to fruition.

Flavored Rum – Quite simply, any rum with flavoring agents added that aren’t natural spices or the infusions you might find in spiced rums. These rums begin with a neutral, sweet base of rum before the flavorings and colorings are added. This is a pretty broad category with options ranging from simple tropical infusions (think pineapple and coconut) to more involved flavor profiles like coffee, chocolate, and cherry vanilla

English Style Rum – Modern-day British rums are characterized by the distilling method (now made using a mix of pot and column distilling) as well as a wild yeast-fermented molasses base rather than cane juice. These sweet, rich expressions are great on the rocks

French Style Rum (Rhum) –  Rhums, which hail from the French Caribbean, are all produced in column stills using sugar cane juice fermented for up to five days. The resulting flavor is softly sweet, with fresh grassy undertones and elegant hints of floral notes.

Tickets are available online here for the event which runs from 6-9pm, Wed, Oct 11th.
VIP tickets are $75, and guests will be welcomed at 6pm with an exclusive cheese and rum pairing hosted by St Anne’s Cheese Company and are almost sold out.
General Admission tickets are $50 and guest can join us at 6:45pm for rum tastings and light hors d’oeuvres. $20 for designated drivers. Tickets go up to $60 at the door.

Be sure and bring $ for a chance to dig for a prize in the treasure chest. It will be stuffed with items from Ignite Yoga, TITLE Boxing Club Kettering, Mamma Disalvo’s, McAlister’s Deli, Geez Grill & Pub, 937 Party Bus, Malibu Rum, Meadowlark Restaurant, Agave & Rye Centerville, Manna Uptown, J Alexander’s, Mike’s Carwash, Sweet Treats Festival, Flying Ace Express Car Wash, Black Rock Bar & Grill and more!

Buckeye Players Tackle “The Stupid-Big Sandwich” for Charity

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Carson Hinzman

Tegra Tshabol

The Ohio State University’s offensive linemen, Carson Hinzman and Tegra Tshabola, along with tight ends Gee Scott and Joe Royer, are set to go head-to-head on Monday, October 9th at 3:30 pm, but not on the football field. Instead, they will each take on a giant, 2 & 1/2-pound sandwich at Dayton’s newest New York Deli, ‘All the Best’.

This event promises much more than a stomach full of meat and cheese or a big score at Ohio Stadium. All the Best will be giving back to the Dayton community by supporting one of the city’s most cherished foundations, The Gala of Hope. In one delectable day, they’ll be able to bring together football, oversized sandwiches, and community spirit for a memorable occasion.

The beloved buckeyes will be competing against each other for this extraordinary charity and to help the NIL effort at OSU. Each player will receive All the Best’s secret menu item: “The Stupid-Big Sandwich”. This sandwich is, well, stupid-big. It includes salami, turkey, pastrami, cole slaw, Swiss cheese and Russian dressing. There will be a race to the finish to establish the fastest time to beat for All The Best customers who also want to partake after this event ends. Any deli customer that orders and finishes a “Stupid-Big” will get it for free. The pickle and the Tums are optional.

All The Best Delicatessen
5940 Far Hills Ave.
Dayton, OH 45429
(937) 999-4204

Little Exchange Bourbon Raffle

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The Little Exchange  is bringing back their bourbon raffle. You could win this  highly sought after 8-bottle full Blanton’s set! Purchase one ticket for $50 or 3 tickets for $100 with 100% of all ticket sales benefiting Dayton Children’s Hospital. Purchase in-store, by phone at 937-299-2561 or on their website at thelittleexchange.org

Winner will be drawn at their Private Bourbon Tasting Event on Thursday, October 5th. That event is by invitation only-for more information please contact us at 937-299-1561 or [email protected]
* Drawing will be held October 5th @ 7PM (via Facebook Live)
* Winner need not be present to win
* Winner must be 21+
*Free delivery within a 50 mile radius of Oakwood, OH 45419
*Bourbon CANNOT be shipped
*Winner living outside of the 50 mile delivery area must make arrangements for pick up

WiBN’s Leadership Conference Earlybird Pricing Ends Sept 1st

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WiBN’s Leadership Conference is one of the most talked-about annual events of the year for women in business. This year, they expect 300+ women to gather at this in-person event, which will help attendees “Grow, Stretch, Thrive” – the theme for this year. The event is designed by women for women and will bring solid and unique insights to change how your business gets done.

Tuesday, November 14th  8 am – 4:30 pm
Sinclair Community College Bldg. 12, Great Hall

Register on line or by calling  (937) 610-2277

Now is the time to register before the early bird discount expires on September 1. Early bird registration fee for BBB Accredited Businesses & Charities & WiBN Members is only $129 per person. The rate for others to attend is $149 during early bird registration. Rates go up $20 for attendees beginning September 2. There is also a special rate of $89 for students.

This one-day event features first-class speakers, networking opportunities and a vendor marketplace to connect with others personally and professionally. This conference is perfect for women who are, were or about to be in the workforce. Business owners, entrepreneurs, career professionals, re-entering caregivers and college students will be represented. Connect with women who can help you take the next step in your career and whom you can help through quality connections. It’s an opportunity to invest in yourself and take your professional development to the next level.

Ryan Owens

Speakers include powerhouses, such as:

  • Daria Dillard Stone, Sharing Ministries, LLC – You Are A S.T.A.R Baby – It All STARts With You
  • Myla Cardona-Jones, Brunner Literacy Center – Unleashing The Power Of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion: Empowering Women In The Workplace
  • Ryan Owens, Synchrony – Manifestation: Creating The Life You Want To Live

In addition, there will be some dynamic breakout sessions featuring:

  • Sarah Chapman, CareSource – Social Media And…Or
  • Lissa Cupp, University of Dayton – Personal Branding & Building Awareness For Your Business
  • Lois Elrich, Real Change Business Coaching – Crucial Conversations – Communication Key Where The Stakes & Emotions Run High
  • Beth Gully, Beth Gully, LLC – Turn Fear Into Joy By Changing Your Perspective
  • Tara McCafferty, SoFo Solution Focused HR, & Deanna Nesbit, Deanna Nesbit & Associates – Where Are All The Workers? Why Recruiting & Retention Aren’t Just For HR Anymore
  • Lindsay Pitstick, Moxie by Nature – Addressing Divides When Generations Collide In The Workplace

The event also includes two informative panel discussions. The morning panel will discuss Productivity. It will be facilitated by Carlina Figueroa, Northwestern Mutual, and feature Elizabeth Galperin, Peak Productivity; Janet Jackson, Organization Solutions, LLC; and Sonya Moore, Moore Planning & Consulting, LLC. The afternoon panel will focus on a Positive Mindset. Kate McEwen, The Foodbank, Inc., will facilitate the discussion with Carol Prewitt, Prewitt Consulting, LLC; Marilyn Caporini, Kangen Water; Tennille Love-Frost, WithLove Coaching & Consulting, LLC.

The WiBN Women of Impact class of 2024 will also be announced during lunch at the event.

Winner of SICSA Poop Show Wins $15,000- Tix On Sale Now!

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 Join SICSA on September 22nd from 6-8pm  for the 4th annual Poop Show, which will be held at Hollywood Gaming Dayton Raceway.

How can a pile of poo win you $15,000?

During the event, a 2,000 square foot play yard onsite at the casino will be divided evenly into 1 foot squares. Each person that purchases a chance will be assigned at random to a square (one square per chance purchased). During the live event, a dog will be released into the play yard. Whomever is assigned to the square where the dog poops wins $15,000!

What’s included in your chance purchase?

  • A chance to win $15,000!
  • $10 of PENN Bonus Play
  • $10 dining certificate for Hollywood Gaming at Dayton Raceway
  • A post-show concert presented by New Country K99.1 FM
  • Optional participation in exclusive Poop Show raffles
  • Complimentary soft drinks and coffee

The first 75 people who purchase 4 chances or more will enjoy exclusive access to the VIP High Roller’s Lounge at the event!

In addition to all of the perks that come with a basic chance purchase, VIP guests will be provided heavy hors d’oeuvres, two complimentary drink tokens, and a front row view of the Poop Show! VIP guests may bring one additional guest with them.

Ready to win? Click below to join in the fun!

Purchase your chance to win here.

 

About SICSA:
In 1974, a group of dedicated individuals committed to offering the Miami Valley an alternative to the traditional animal welfare system, came together and created the Society for the Improvement of Conditions for Stray Animals (SICSA). For more than 40 years, people in the Miami Valley have supported the SICSA Pet Adoption and Wellness Center in a partnership of caring to build a strong humane community.In 2020, SICSA built a new, state-of-the-art facility located at 8172 Washington Church Road, Dayton, OH 45458. This facility features a spacious Veterinary Clinic, a Temporary Care Wing, numerous Play Yards, and more!

Masquarage 2023: A Night on Olympus

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Equitas Health has announced the theme for their annual Masquerage fundraiser for 2023. A Night on Olympus will happen on October 14 as a party that celebrates ancient Greek myths.  This massive dance party  will take place at the Dayton Arcade this year and guests are encouraged to dress up as their favorite gods and goddesses. Attendees must be 21 and over, and while masks are not required, they are encouraged. This theme release video will give you some inspiration for costumes:

 

Since 2002 Masquerage has helped raise HIV/AIDS awareness and more than $1.5M, becoming one of Dayton’s premier see-and-be-seen events. The money raised at Masquerage supports the prevention and education efforts of Equitas Health. The prevention team at Equitas Health provides HIV/STI testing and prevention, educational programs, support groups, and more to the Dayton community.

Jackie O  & Cherry Poppins will return to host the party, Gem City Burlesque will also make a return this year with performances that are sure to titillate. Regional Events Manager for Equitas, Jostin Schimmoeler  also shared he has several other cool entertainers lined up, but he can’t reveal them until contracts are signed.

Be sure and bring money for the silent auction which will have restaurant gift cards, gift baskets and experiences available for your bidding pleasure.

There are 2 Ticket options for Masquerage:

General Admission – which gives you access to the event’s main areas, welcome drink at the beginning of the night, a full dance floor and entertainment through the night! $60 in advance.

Red Ribbon Lounge – includes access to both main and VIP areas, welcome drink, a designated VIP Bar with drinks included, a full dance floor and entertainment through the night and  a swag bag at the end of the night! Food for the Red Ribbon Lounge will be provided by Sueno. This year the Red Ribbon Lounge will be on two floors, on the main floor and The Tank.   $125 in advance.

Want to go but funds are low? Volunteers that donate eight hours or more of their time will earn a complimentary General Admission ticket. For information on volunteering, please reach out to [email protected].

 

 

 

Sophia Learning Center Hosts Old-Fashioned Lemonade & Homemade Baked Goods Fundraiser

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On Saturday, August 5, 2023, beginning at 12:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., Sophia Learning Center, a local Christ-centered preschool and private kindergarten, will host its third Drive by: Fresh Lemonade & Homemade Baked Goods.

Fundraiser at 1401 S. Main Street, Dayton, Ohio 45409
This year’s sale will feature three flavors of old-fashioned lemonade:
• Classic Old-Fashioned Lemonade
• Berry Lemonade
• Pineapple Lemonade

Additionally, the sale will feature 24 different types of homemade desserts prepared by
local small business, home and hobby bakers from the Dayton and Cincinnati Region,
including local favorites like, Dorothy Lane Market, Klassi Konfections, Sugar Sweets by
Peeks and Twist Cupcakery. Desserts range from sweet potato pies and cobblers to
pound cakes, cheesecakes and more. The menu will also include gluten free options for
individuals with allergens.

Attendees can choose to stay in their cars or walk up to the booth to purchase from SLC’s
students and volunteers. Lemonade prices will begin $5.00 a cup or $10 and up for
specialty souvenir bottles. Desserts are $5 a slice/bowl or attendees can purchase the
entire dessert.

Sophia Learning Center was founded in 2019 and is a Christ-centered preschool and private kindergarten located in Kettering that works alongside of parents to train up world
changers, by ensuring that students have a firm foundation in Christ as well as a firm foundation in reading and math prior to entering the school system. Proceeds from the fundraiser will help Sophia Learning Center prepare for growth, purchase new technology for the school year and provide scholarships for students.

For more information about the Fresh Lemonade & Homemade Baked Goods Fundraiser,
or a full list of the desserts that will be available the day of the event visit.

For more information, visit: www.sophialearningcenter.org
https://www.sophialearningcenter.org/lemonad-sale, or follow Sophia Learning Center on
Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/SophiaLearningCenter.

About the Sophia Learning Center
The Sophia Learning Center is a Christ-centered preschool that prepares your scholar to
successfully navigate the school system. Through traditional teaching methods, biblical
wisdom principles, small group instruction, experiential learning field trips and daily fun
hands-on activities, we equip students with the reading fundamentals, math skills and
strategies to be Kindergarten ready, know who they are in Christ and ultimately grow up
to become world changers.

5K for Kelli Raises Special Wish Funds for Breast Cancer Patients

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5k for Kelli is in memory of Kelli James

Join us in remembering the life of Kelli James and honoring all the breast cancer survivors, the Nghters and the love ones we’ve lost at the 11th Annual 5K for Kelli, presented by the Breast Wishes Foundation on Saturday, August 19th at 9am. 100% of proceeds go to granting wishes for women with breast cancer through the Breast Wishes Foundation.

The 5k for Kelli Run/Walk is a super fun event for the whole family. It is a 3.1 mile out and back course that begins and ends next to Wegerzyn Gardens and winds along the beautiful Stillwater River.

Because Kelli loved fairies, we encourage everyone to dress up in tutus, wings, and Wower crowns. No fairy gear? No problem! We have everything you need at the merchandise tent with all proceeds going to Breast Wishes Foundation. We also offer free fairy face painting and colored hair spraying! Registration and Merchandise tents will open at 7:30 am.

How to Go: 5K for Kelli on Saturday, August 19th at 9am at Wegerzyn MetroPark

Event Fees: Registration only $25! (Register by August 5th to guarantee a super-soft and comfy t-shirt)

Awards: Be sure to bring a few extra dollars to buy some raae tickets. Our top prize is $1,000 cash!
We will give medals, pint glasses and gift cards to the Top 3 Male and Female overall and the Top 3 Male and Female in each age category.

Age Categories: 19 and Under, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60 and over

Event Parking and Registration: https://runsignup.com/Race/Info/OH/Dayton/5kforKelli

The Flying Field at Wegerzyn, 1301 E. Siebenthaler Avenue, Dayton, OH 45414

Pre-Registration packet pick up:

Friday August 18th from 8am-7pm at the Breast Wishes Foundation, 115 E National Rd Vandalia, OH 45377. Note – We highly recommend pre-packet pickup!

Additional race information can be found at http://breastwishesfoundation.org

Diced in Dayton Chef Competition Returns!

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Launched last year, this fundraiser for Miami Valley Meals returns on Tuesday, Sept 19th at Top of the Market.  Diced in Dayton is an interactive, food-filled event that showcases and celebrates the creativity of local chefs as they craft unique dishes from a set of mystery ingredients. Guests vote for their favorite and the two chefs who get the most votes will compete “Chopped” style to create a dish from a box of ingredients they are given right then and there.   A panel of judges will evaluate the final two dishes and declare a winner.

2022 Diced Chefs

For your chance to  enjoy delicious bites and support a great cause you can purchase tickets to support Miami Valley Meals here.

General admission ticket – $75

  • 6:00 p.m. entry
  • Sample tastes from 8 chefs
  • Cast a vote for your favorite dish

VIP ticket – $150

  • Early entry for VIP-exclusive happy half-hour at 5:30 p.m.
  • 2 free drink tickets
  • Access to reserved VIP seating area
  • Sample tastes from all 12 chefs
  • Cast a vote for your favorite dish
  • Free deck of Dayton Foodie cards ($30 value)
  • Random chance to taste and judge in the final round

Miami Valley Meals team of chefs transform recovered (a.k.a. “rescued”) foods into hearty and nutritious prepared meals that are then distributed to a network of nonprofit partners serving the hungry in the Miami Valley—free of charge. They currently distribute an average of ~4,000 meals per week to 45+ partners per month.

AlphaTrips: CHICago is CHIC again!

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   It’s time to travel again….and even though I use AlphaTrips to highlight cities and towns close to our beloved Dayton, it’s time to TRAVEL beyond. 4 and a half hours from Dayton’s city center is one of America’s great big cities…CHICAGO! Flanked by the beauty of Lake Michigan, highlighted by the amazing skyscrapers, filled with world-class hotels and dotted with more parks than you can shake a stick at…Chicago is vibrant again. Gone are the annoying masks, plastic dividers, and spacing that kept us all at bay. Back is an oasis for shoppers, a playground for water lovers, and a fulfillment for music and art aficianados.

“The trick is to take what the media says with a grain of salt.” Says Mischa K, a local food vendor and lifelong dweller. “We are facing what all big cities are facing. This need to make everyone feel that Netflix is better than the Lincoln Park Zoo. I mean, come on!” Mischa is not alone. While visiting the Windy City, I chatted it up with others…sentiments the same! “Magnificent Mile has seen some closures, but all-in-all, the street is packed with visitors, and you can’t find a restaurant with availability.” Says Fred H. “I dunno, I keep hearing the same stories about Miami, NYC and LA….so we are in good company.” laughs Dan D. “You adjust. You find a way to make the new way of doing things a better way of doing things. We are still Midwest…people are still as friendly as it gets here!”

For me and the gang I traveled with, we found a ton to do! Plopping ourselves at the Viceroy on State Street…we were near the beating heart of the town. A short walk to Michigan Ave. and you could feel it…life is BACK! On the streets families with popcorn, lovers holding hands and obnoxious drivers laying on their horns in hopes they get much needed attention! Shopping felt good…no clicking Amazon for a new shirt, but rather, trying it on…and having the clerk find a better size…HEAVEN! (By the way, Ralph Lauren’s POLO on Michigan is a must now….WOW…packed and pretty!!) Starbucks three level signature store is bit much, but its worth a drop in. To be real, I was more interested in finding the old hotels with those dimly lit bars, and amazing Old-Fashioneds…and they didn’t disappoint! (Champagne stops are a good idea as well.)

The Aquarium, the zoo, the beach, the pier…all in full-swing and ready to take on your family with new sites to see as well. And, honestly, is there any city near us with a more diverse collection of architecture!! STUNNING STUFF!  One place I always enjoy is Andersonville. Filled with shops from the sublime to the silly, the area boasts a lot of great variety. Take a minute to grab a drink at Lady Gregory’s, Farragut’s or Hopleaf Brewery! Feeling adventurous? Sneak into Simon’s (Oldie but goodie)!

Dining is also back in Chicago. We ate dinner at Somerset, a patio restaurant, with great people-watching in the Gold Coast. After dinner, take the elevator to the 18th floor to Devereaux…this pool-side party place is inviting and sophisticated. Of course, I could list dozens of places to find food, and everyone would have an opinion how right or wrong I was…with that, I will say, there is something for everyone in Chi-Town! (We loved grabbing a coffee at Whispers and sitting in the triangular garden among the college kids and locals.)

It’s time peeps! Grab your pet (they were everywhere)…pack your car (or just buy everything there)…and put on your walking shoes (we averaged 15,000 steps a day)….and head NorthWest(ish) to one of America’s Best….the city of BIG SHOULDERS….CHICAGO!

 

 

 

 

 

Packard Museum’s Annual Spring Fling is Coming!

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 America’s Packard Museum, located in Downtown Dayton has put together a jam packed agenda of events for The 2023 Packard Spring Fling, featuring Packard and Racing. Events will take place April 28-29 (Friday and Saturday) 2023.

Photo by Bill Franz

A new exhibition, Pole Position Packards, includes many Packard and modern race cars. Friday’s Welcome Reception begins with an unveiling and book signing event. Saturday’s race car collection tour and pro-tips sessions are sponsored by Max Merritt Auto Parts, with a display for purchase or pick up (if you preorder). Saturday’s Gala Banquet spotlights our distinguished speaker, Price Cobb, winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans for Jaguar in 1990. The Kim Kelly Orchestra guest stars renowned vocalist Dominic Inferrera, as we dance to Sounds of Sinatra.

Here’s the schedule of events:

Friday, April 28 6:30pm
Packard Spring Fling Welcome Reception Sponsored by White Allen European Auto Group Pole Position Packards – New Exhibit Opening Cocktails, Hors d’oeuvres, Live music, Book Signing Event Remarks by Robert Signom III, Curator APM and by Josh Russell, Director, Gilmore Car Museum

Casual attire for Friday. Cocktail attire for Saturday night.

Saturday, April 29 9:30am
“Up Close and Personal at America’s Packard Museum” An all-ages educational experience where families and friends can sit in Packards and learn more about styling and design with Rob Signom, Curator

11:30am “Back from the Barn” a discussion and demonstration with Pat Aldrich, esteemed Packard restorer on techniques, pitfalls and common misconceptions about preparing your collector car for winter storage and spring driving.

12:30pm Box Lunches at America’s Packard Museum 1:00pm Bus Departs for Automotive Collection Tour

2:00pm The Robert McConnell Race Car Collection – a tour of Ohio’s most significant private collection of racing cars. Bob McConnell is considered the leading collector and restorer of Indy Roadsters and has shown at Concours around the world. Sponsored by Max Merritt Packard Parts Co.

3:15pm Bus Departs for America’s Packard Museum

4:15pm Bus Arrives at America’s Packard Museum

6:00pm 2023 Packard Spring Fling Cocktail Hour “Sounds of Sinatra” Dancing to the Big Band sound of the Kim Kelly Orchestra, Dominic Inferrera, award winning vocalist Silent Auction Begins

6:15pm VIP Reception in the Turnquist Packard Library

7:00pm 30th Anniversary Gala Packard Spring Fling Banquet Guest Speaker, Price Cobb, renowned Racecar Driver and winner of 24 Hours of LeMans, “Life’s Speedbumps: A Racer’s Perspective” Fine Dining provided by Elite Catering

8:30pm “Sounds of Sinatra” continues with The Kim Kelly Orchestra. Dancing.

9:30pm Silent Auction Concludes, Winners Announced

10:00pm Farewell Toast

Hotel reservations are available at the University of Dayton Marriott. Please contact America’s Packard Museum (937) 226-1710) for any hotel questions.

This Must Be the Party hits the stage this Friday at The Brightside

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One of the most celebrated music events in Dayton during the last decade is back! This Must Be the Party is a local super group who performs a fantastic tribute to The Talking Heads. Fans love the complete recreation of the classic album and documentary film Stop Making Sense that they perform! Catch them for an exclusive show Friday April 14, 2023 at The Brightside, in downtown Dayton.

Few bands are as well-known in the music industry as the Talking Heads. The band, which was founded in the middle of the 1970s, contributed to the development of a new musical genre that would later come to rule the radio in the 1980s. The Talking Heads were one of the most innovative and forward-thinking bands of their period with their special fusion of rock, groove, and New Wave. It’s no wonder that Dayton audiences love this tribute show!

Due to the Covid shutdown, This Must Be the Party hasn’t performed since 2019, so this is a highly anticipated event! The best part is that part of the proceeds from this show go to benefit The Seedling Foundation, an organization that supports the arts magnet at Stivers School for the Arts. It’s a musical celebration to support music education!

If you’ve had the pleasure of seeing this amazing show already, you know how much fun to expect! (Pro tip: Wear comfortable shoes!) This go around, there is a very special guest joining the show. Sammi Garett, from the national touring acts Turquaz, Cool Cool Cool, & The Bump Assembly, is flying in from Brooklyn to join the crew! She’s an absolutely fabulous singer and performer, and she’s excited to perform in Dayton for the first time.

Local original band, Intergalactic Space Force, is kicking off the show at 8:30pm, shortly after doors open. They were Dayton Battle of the Bands finalists last year, and always love an opportunity to perform at The Brightside.

After the Stop Making Sense headlining show, if you’re still ready to boogie, Freekbass will be making his Brightside debut with a “Solo Grooves” after party.

If you get hungry, the venue has coordinated with Phat & Rich to be on site to serve your needs. The Mexican inspired cuisine is a hit with concert goers, so go hungry and hang on the Brightside’s awesome patio between sets.

If you’re looking for a place to pre-game, organizers recommend going to Tender Mercy for their amazing cocktails. “Not only is Tender Mercy our neighbor, they are one of the primary sponsors of this event!” event organizer, Libby Ballengee told us. “Their sister restaurant Sueño, is an amazing spot for dinner too, but I’d get reservations first!”

This Must Be the Party promises to be one of the most memorable events of the spring!

*The band includes: Khrys Blank, Nathan Lewis, Patrick Himes, Brian Hoeflich, Erich Reith, Aaron Holmes, Matt Byanski, Eric Cassidy, Nathan Peters, Christopher Corn, Brian Spirk, with special guest Sammi Garett.

HOW TO GO?

When: April 14, 2023

Where: The Brightside Music & Event Venue, 905 E 3rd St, Dayton, OH

– $30 Advance General admission tickets (highly recommend purchasing advance to guarantee spot)

– $35 Day of show

TICKET LINK: https://www.venuepilot.co/events/69946/orders/new

 

PRG Blooming with a Purpose Fundraiser

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Join the Pink Ribbon Girls for their Blooming with a Purpose event on Wed, March 22nd to support families suffering breast and gynecological cancers in the Dayton region.

You can support a great cause at PRG Dayton’s first ever Blooming with a Purpose event! Funds raised will support PRG in providing essential services for families battling breast and gynecological cancer in the Dayton region.

Attendees will enjoy acoustic music, charcuterie, mocktails, a flower crown tutorial, the essence of a photoshoot at Furst’s greenhouse, and lots of fun! Individual tickets will be $50.00. This would be a great mother daughter date or best friend date! We encourage you to bring someone special to you!

Pink Ribbon Good provides meals, rides to treatment, housecleaning essentials and peer support FREE of charge to breast cancer or gynecological cancer patients at their time of greatest need.

Please contact Cara Salazar Community Engagement Coordinator, Dayton [email protected] with any questions.

Get Tickets online

Wednesday, March 22 · 5:30 – 7:30pm

Furst The Florist & Greenhouses
1306 Troy Street
Dayton, OH 45404

“Sing Out Loud” community choral event kicks off the Campaign for the Arts!

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Culture Works invite you to join them as they launch their 2023 Campaign for the Arts this Tuesday, March 7, 2023 at the Victoria Theatre for a special “Sing Out Loud” event. During this special performance you’ll hear from the Culture Works team and Dr. Sue Edwards, President of Wright State University and this year’s Campaign Chair, about the importance of supporting our local creative community.

The stars of the program are our friends and neighbors! Sing Out Loud will feature more than 100 local arts champions coming together as one choir singing familiar songs from the stage and the screen. You’ll be certain to spot a familiar face or two on stage, and you’ll leave with a smile on your face and a song in your heart!

HOW TO GO?
Tuesday, March 7, 2023
at the Victoria Theatre
Doors open by 7pm
Program begins promptly at 7:30pm
Tickets available at this link: https://www.daytonlive.org/events/sing-out-loud/

SING OUT LOUD SPONSORS:
Dayton Live
Agape Media
The Dayton Foundation