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Miami Valley Meals to Host Turkey Takeaway Event For Families in Need

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For a third consecutive year, Miami Valley Meals (MVM) will host a Turkey Takeaway event for those in need across the Miami Valley. The event will be presented by sponsor and partner, The Feast of Giving and will be held on 11/23/22.

The Feast of Giving is an annual Dayton Holiday tradition providing Thanksgiving fare and festive fellowship. This community affair has served over 7,000 guests yearly since 2009 and was most recently enjoyed in the Dayton Convention Center in 2019. The pandemic put the event on hold and MVM was happy to step in to support through meals. The Feast of Giving looks forward to their community event in the future but is happy to support MVM’s efforts to ensure all have a meal to enjoy this holiday.

“The Feast of Giving is both excited and honored to support MVM for a second year in sharing a common goal of providing Thanksgiving meals to those who need them in our community,” said Dr. Stephen Levitt, team member of the Feast of Giving. “These meals are prepared, provided and served with dignity.” Dr. Levitt goes on to say, “We wish everyone a happy and healthy holiday, and we look forward to the return of the Feast of Giving in the future.”

MVM has prepared and distributed over 400,000 meals since its inception in March 2020 with tremendous community and partner support. Over 20,000 of those meals were distributed during previous Turkey Takeaway events. MVM is prepared to continue this tradition of service with love and fellowship this holiday season.

Distributions will take place the day before Thanksgiving, Wednesday, November 23, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Trotwood-Madison High School and the University of Dayton Arena. Guests are to stay in their vehicles, follow signage for the drive-through, and meals will be placed in their vehicles. This is a first come, first served event.

In addition, MVM has once again partnered with the Dayton Young Black Professionals to add two smaller satellite locations in West Dayton with locations to be announced later in October. Distributions at these satellite locations will be from 12 p.m to 3 p.m. Lastly, MVM has gained an additional partner this year in the Fairborn Phoenix Foundation who will also run a distribution from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Fairborn Phoenix Theater on Broad St. in Fairborn.

“MVM is able to amplify our service during the holiday with the support of the Feast of Giving and of numerous partner organizations who are making a difference every day,” said MVM Executive Director, Amanda DeLotelle. “Our community is made up of helpers, who are deeply invested in progress and its people, and we thank each and every person who puts their trust in us to provide warmth and nourishment through our meals to those who need it.”

Volunteer opportunities will be announced throughout this month on MVM’s website  and its social media channels (@MiamiValleyMeals on Facebook and Instagram).

Four of the Best Fall Color Hikes Along The Riverway

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Saying goodbye to summer is never easy, but the best part about fall along the Great Miami Riverway is the opportunity to enjoy cooler temperatures, add cozy layers back into your wardrobe, and to enjoy some leisurely walks and hikes where you can soak in the beautiful colors of the season.

There’s no better place than along the Riverway to take in the beautiful sites of nature and watch the changing leaves and vistas. The spots to take in stunning, picturesque sites are endless, but we’ve gathered four of our favorites that will have you saying “So long, Summer” and “It’s Fall, Y’all!” in no time.

Here are four of the places (from the list of 99 things to do along the Great Miami Riverway) we recommend to watch the colors of nature paint themselves into your hearts, just in time for fall.

#1 Watch the sunset at Deed’s Point MetroPark.

This small MetroPark provides a giant unobstructed and picturesque view of the downtown skyline, embraced by the beauty of nature. Located at the junction of the Mad River and the Great Miami River with wonderful views of urban life. A variety of migratory and resident birds can be seen there. The Great Miami River Recreation Trail runs through the park. The park features a popular bronze statue of Wilbur and Orville Wright and an aviation history timeline exhibit. The park also has a monument for the Dayton Peace Accord which symbolizes the historic agreement for peace struck between Bosnia and Herzegovina on Nov. 21, 1995.

#18 Hike the trails at Shawnee Lookout to take in the amazing scenic vistas of the Great Miami River valley.

Shawnee Lookout, located in Hamilton County, is a great place to take in nature any time of year. The park is well known for its historical Springhouse School and Log Cabin as well as its Native American archaeological earthworks. The park’s nature trails, including the 1.3-mile Blue Jacket, 2.0-mile Little Turtle and the 1.4-mile Miami Fort trail, offer spectacular views of the Ohio River and Great Miami River valleys. The 4.3 miles of former golf cart paths are also open for biking, hiking, rolling or strolling. The park also features picnic areas, a playground and boat access to the Great Miami River. The new Riverway poster features the view from Shawnee Lookout.

#46 Grab your hiking shoes and climb to the top of the Miamisburg Mound – one of two tallest adena mounds in the US

Miamisburg Mound offers an easy 30-minute visit and the opportunity to see one of the two largest conical mounds in eastern North America. The mound is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is 65 feet tall and 800 feet in circumference, containing 54,000 cubic yards of earth. The mound is visible from several miles away because it stands atop a 100-foot high ridge above the Great Miami River. Steps have been built to the top observation platform, where you can enjoy a wonderful view of the area.

Photo by TripAdvisor/Sibylle B

#72 Hike Charleston Falls Nature Preserve to see beautiful waterfalls and wildflowers.

Any time of year is a good time to visit Charleston Falls. As summer fades into fall, watch the lush green forest explode with color. The Falls at Charleston Falls can rightly be called a “Miniature Niagara” because its rock strata is the same as Niagara Falls. Charleston Falls Preserve is the most visited Park District property in Miami County with more than 216 acres of prairie and forests. This picturesque park is the perfect place to hike and view wildlife or seek out uncommon plants such as wild columbine, walking fern, purple cliff break and rock honeysuckle grace the limestone faces of the surrounding gorge.

These places are great stops along the Riverway no matter what season you’re in, and with all the options, there are countless more places to explore. Need for more ideas? Make sure to check out our full list of 99 things to do along the Great Miami Riverway, here.

Jazz Supergroup Performs Exclusive Show at The Brightside

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I first saw Jennifer Hartswick perform at a sold-out concert in New York City.  She was playing trumpet for Trey Anastasio’s solo project. I was blown away by the entire horn section’s talent, which included trumpet, trombone, and sax players. It’s the kind of musical experience that truly removes you from your troubles, and delivers a true sense of joy. I longed to bring talent on that level to my friends in Dayton.

The members of The Jennifer Hartswick Band

A few years later, I had just an opportunity. My friend Carli Dixon had opened The Brightside on East 3rd St downtown and allowed me to host concerts of my choosing. What a gift! And funny enough, Jennifer had a solo project that was touring through venues just like The Brightside. I had the pleasure of hosting Jennifer not once,  but two times in our first year open, before the pandemic hit. In fact, Jennifer Hartswick was the last show we hosted, on March 10, 2020. Each time she’s brought her immense talent to our stage, the audience is enthralled, moved to actual tears of joy. 

So now that things are getting back to “normal,” I leaped at the opportunity to host Jennifer again. However, this time there was a twist. She is visiting us with a full band, including her writing partner Nick Cassarino on guitar, Conor Elmes on drums, and fellow Trey Anastasio Band members Dezron Douglas on bass and James Casey on sax. 

All of these musicians are superstars in their own right. Douglas is a protégé of the great Jackie McLean, and is currently a Jazz Studies professor at NYU Steinhardt. Elmes is a  member of the YoungBlood Brass Band. Cassarino may look familiar as he’s performed multiple times at The Brightside, and this summer on the Levitt stage with his band The Nth Power.

Casey being in Dayton is particularly special because he is currently going through cancer treatment for Stage 3 colon cancer. This week he posted: “The amount of planning it takes for me to be able to come on the road these days is more than you could imagine, and along with my fam, team and docs, they made (and continue to make) it happen. Total appreciation!”

I compare this group to the Wrecking Crew, who were the subject of a recent documentary. The Wrecking Crew was a loose collective of studio musicians who were the actual musicians who recorded hundreds of Top 40 songs during the 1960s and 1970s. The group was not publicly recognized but was viewed with reverence by industry insiders.

Dayton blues performer Steven Gregory

The Jennifer Hartswick Band is a live music version of the Wrecking Crew. You’ve probably seen them backing bigger names, but this is their time to shine! As a music nerd myself, I’m one of the industry insiders who views this group in absolute awe. 

A  lot of times, we have the tendency to want to hear what we know. That’s why tribute bands and cover bands are so popular. That’s why seeing bands that were popular during high school is so appealing. And while all of that is great, I’m interested in what’s happening now. Instead of clinging to nostalgia only, I’m wanting to bring musicians that are on fire right now, whom you normally can only see in the biggest cities. In fact, this group is only performing a very limited tour, and they selected Dayton specifically to visit because they enjoy visiting here so much. 

I truly hope Dayton audiences find some space in their lives for musical curiosity and check out this concert! Local blues musician, Steven Gregory, kicks off the show at 8 pm at  The Brightside on Thursday, October 13th.

 

HOW TO GO?

  • The Jennifer Hartswick Band
  • The Brightside Music & Event Venue  (905 E 3rd St, Dayton, OH)
  • October 13, 2022. Doors open at 7:30pm. Concert starts at 8pm.
  • All ages welcome
  • Tickets advance: $20 (Click link here)
  • Day of Show: $25

 

Tickets Now On Sale For Hauntfest on Fifth

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Come one, come all to the greatest annual spectacle in the Miami Valley, HAUNTFEST ON 5TH! This year is sure to be quite the circus, with oddities to behold, revelers, tremendous feats, and more! The event begins at 7pm on Saturday, Oct 29th and will end on Sun, Oct 30th at 1am.
More than just a huge Halloween festival, it’s also an opportunity to come together as a community and support the positive and cohesive spirit of our entertainment & entrepreneurial neighborhood!
In addition to being an amazing party, HAUNTFEST serves as a fundraiser for the Oregon District Business Association to cover improvement efforts in the District throughout the year.
Tickets are $10 and can be purchased online.
HAUNTFEST HAS A STRICT WEAPONS-FREE POLICY. NO WEAPONS—REAL OR FAKE—WILL BE PERMITTED.
VISITORS MUST BE 18 YEARS OLD TO ENTER, AND 21 TO DRINK

Nominate an Excellent City of Dayton Employee

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Photo of Joseph T. ClineThe Joseph T. Cline Awards Fund was established in 1984 at The Dayton Foundation by Carolynne H. Cline, daughter of the late Joseph T. Cline, a longtime supporter of the City of Dayton and civic volunteer.

The awards honor current City of Dayton workers who display excellence and dedication in their career as a City employee, as well as civic and community involvement. Honorees receive recognition by the City Commission and a cash award from an endowment established by the Cline family through The Dayton Foundation.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE

To be eligible, nominees must be a current full-time or permanent part-time employee with a minimum of two years of employment with the City of Dayton. Citizens and City of Dayton employees alike may nominate individuals for this award. Up to 10 winners will be selected by a team of reviewers representing The Dayton Foundation and the City of Dayton, plus a community volunteer and prior award winners.

NOMINATION DEADLINE

The nomination period for the 2022 Joseph T. Cline Awards is 5 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 4. Submit a nomination here or pick up a form at the City Hall ground floor lobby (101 W. Third St., 8 a.m.-5 p.m.) Look for announcement of winners by mid-November.

 

City of Dayton Invests $800,000 in Two Local Organizations

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The City of Dayton has announced the newest investments of Dayton Recovery Plan funds, following approval of contracts by the City Commission. Investments of $500,000 for the Ronald McDonald House and $300,000 for the Boys & Girls Club of Dayton will support new or improved facilities crucial to the non-profits’ missions.

Funding for both awards will be provided through the Dayton Recovery Plan’s $7.3 million Aiding Community and Small Business Recovery component. This section of the plan focuses on supporting community health and wellness, assisting small businesses and organizations, and providing educational opportunities.

The Dayton Recovery Plan is a $138 million framework for community COVID relief and investment for the future, made possible by the federal American Rescue Plan Act.

“These two organizations have a demonstrated history of making a difference in the lives of families and children, and the City of Dayton is pleased to support them through the Dayton Recovery Plan,” said City Manager Shelley Dickstein. “Their renewed commitment to their missions through facility improvements will have a positive impact in Dayton neighborhoods as well.”

Helping our community

Earlier this year, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Dayton announced plans to raise $25 million to build a new 42-room facility on Valley Street. Housing is a critical component of the continuum of care, but the current 14-room facility across from Dayton Children’s Hospital’s main campus is unable to meet the growing need for services.

Dayton has become a destination city for pediatric health care as a result of advancements in outpatient and specialty services and Shriners Children’s Ohio’s move to the city from Cincinnati in 2021.

“Last year Ronald McDonald House had to turn away 63% of the families that came to us for housing. Expanding our capacity is significant to the strategic growth of our region’s healthcare sector and necessary to support the hundreds of families who travel to Dayton each year for their child’s medical care,” said Rita Cyr, Executive Director, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Dayton.

The Ronald McDonald House funding will support architecture and design fees as well as engineering fees (groundbreaking, foundation pouring, construction). In accordance with the City’s emphasis on the use of Minority Business Enterprises (MBE), there is a 15% aspirational MBE goal assigned to this contract.

The Boys & Girls Club of Dayton/West Dayton Community Recreation & Space Sharing Project will use the Dayton Recovery Plan funds for construction/renovation services at its West Stewart Street facility, including electrical, plumbing, and other trades services, as well as needed equipment upgrades. In accordance with the City’s focus on the use of MBE, there is a 25% aspirational MBE goal assigned to the contract.

Club members are children ranging from kindergarten to high school age, and 96% are African American.

“We know there are hundreds more young people in West Dayton who would benefit from our programs, but the condition of the facility is a barrier to recruitment and retention of families who can take advantage of our education and enrichment programs,” said Mica Goosby, Board Chair of the Boys & Girls Club. “West Dayton is a vibrant community with a rich cultural heritage and community assets, and the City of Dayton’s investment in the Boys & Girls Club will allow us to continue to help families and children succeed. We are grateful for the City’s leadership and their support of our mission to build a bright future for our youth.”

 

J.D. Vance/ Tim Ryan Debate To Air Mon, Oct 10th

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Nexstar Media Inc announced today that it will host an exclusive multi-market live prime time telecast of a debate between the candidates running for the United States Senate from Ohio, Republican JD Vance and Democrat Tim Ryan.

The event is currently the only scheduled face-to-face meeting between the two candidates. The debate will take place on Monday, October 10, 2022, at 7:00 p.m. EDT, at the WJW-TV studios in Cleveland, OH, and will be telecast and live streamed throughout the state.

Your Local Election Headquarters: Ohio U.S. Senate Debate

Monday, October 10, 2022
7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. EST

The one-hour debate will bring together potentially five million viewers across Ohio and will air on five Nexstar television stations, including: WJW-TV FOX8 (FOX) in Cleveland, WCMH-TV NBC4 (NBC) in Columbus, WDTN-TV 2 (NBC) in Dayton, WYFX-TV (FOX) in Youngstown, and WTRF-TV (CBS) in Wheeling, WV/Steubenville, OH.

Local viewers may also access a livestream of the debate online by visiting the website of their local Nexstar station.

The debate will be moderated by WJW FOX8 anchor Joe Toohey and WCMH NBC4 anchor Colleen Marshall, who will pose questions to the candidates focused on current local and regional issues impacting communities across the Ohio.

The election for U.S. Senator from Ohio is scheduled to take place on November 8.

For more information regarding the upcoming elections, including early voting dates, polling locations and voter identification requirements, please visit https://vote.gov/register/oh/.

Montgomery County to Provide $60,000 in Grants for Local Artists

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The 2022–2023 Artist Opportunity Grant program will provide grants of up to $3,000 to Montgomery County artists to create new works and pursue imminent opportunities for professional development, such as residences, apprenticeships, and skill-building workshops. Funded projects must take place between March 1, 2023 and February 29, 2024.

The Montgomery County Arts & Cultural District (MCACD), which funds the program, is providing $60,000 for this grant cycle—a significant increase from previous years. “Montgomery County recognizes the role artists play in our quality of life, and for being a catalyst for healing and important community conversations,” said the MCACD’s Executive Director, Matt Dunn. “It is our pleasure to contribute to their work and to support their growth and careers as artists,” he said.

Since it began in 2016, the Artist Opportunity Grant program has supported the work of more than 70 local artists. Culture Works, the Dayton Region’s united arts fund and advocacy agency, which administers the grant, sees the program’s goal of elevating and empowering artists as essential to the health of the larger community.

“Art, in its many forms, is inspirational, influential, and can have long-term positive impacts on our community,” said Lisa Hanson, President & CEO of Culture Works. “It is amazing that we live in a community that cares about art and supports the artists who create it! We are grateful to the Montgomery County Arts & Cultural District for making this program possible and increasing the funding for the upcoming grant cycle.”

Montgomery County artists can apply through the Culture Works website, cultureworks.org, beginning October 3rd. The deadline to apply will be December 2nd. An independent panel of artists, arts administrators, and community leaders will review applications and make funding recommendations at a public meeting in January of next year.

Full program guidelines, key dates, and additional resources will be posted to the Culture Works website. Culture Works will also host a virtual info session for first-time applicants in late October.

 

Local Domestic Violence Resource Agency, Artemis Center, Sees Increase in Services

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As the provider of Montgomery County’s 24/7 domestic violence hotline, Artemis Center saw a 47.7%* increase in calls from 2020 to 2021. Nationally, the increase was a little over 12%* and in Ohio, the increase was 29%*. With this significant increase in calls, and an overall 30%* increase in the total number of clients served in the same time frame, Artemis is seeking support now more than ever. 

The 24/7 Domestic violence hotline is the hub of all of Artemis Center’s services. Through this hotline, Artemis provides safety planning and emergency assistance which includes safe housing, transportation, access to pantry services, and referrals to other community partners. Artemis Center provided services to over 4,100* people in 2021 and answered over 6,600* hotline calls. 

In October, Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Artemis Center will be sharing information with the Dayton community through events, campaigns, and stories.

The signature fundraiser for Awareness Month is the Breaking the CycleFundraising Breakfast, held on Thursday, October 13, 2022, from 8:00-9:00 am at Sinclair’s Conference Center.

The Breaking the Cycle Virtual 5k is held during the entire month of October. The goal is to raise $100,000 in support of survivors in the Miami Valley. Support for Artemis Center will help increase the number of trained advocates to answer the 24/7 hotline and sustain other programs and services needed in the Dayton community. 

With such an increase in services, it is vital that we continue to make our community aware of the resources that ArtemisCenter provides free to all that need them!

 

 

More about Artemis Center:

  • Location: 310 W. Monument Ave., Dayton, OH 45402
  • Hotline: 937.461.HELP
  • Website: Artemiscenter.org

Local Actor To Appear on Chicago PD TV Show

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Miami Valley actor scOtt summitt represents the Gem City on national television when he co-stars on the primetime TV crime show CHICAGO PD, airing at 10pm, Wednesday, September 28 on NBC.

“It’s so exciting to have an opportunity like this,” summitt says. “The cast and crew were so professional, just an incredible team. It’s truly an honor to work on a TV show of this calibre.”

The Dayton native plays a character named “Eric Sadler” who becomes involved in high stakes action that sets up the episode’s plot line. “He’s in the wrong place at the wrong time,” summitt explains. “But he helps launch an exciting story line on the show with a bang!”

Devin Bundrent, one of summitt’s agents who represents him in the region at Cincinnati- based Heyman Talent Agency, celebrates his client’s casting on the popular crime show.

“We are overjoyed when one of our clients books any role,” Bundrent says, “but a role on a primetime network television show is especially sweet when it’s someone like scOtt who feels like family.”

Over the years, the hardworking actor has appeared in standout co-star and guest star roles on Comedy Central, UPTV Network, feature films and web series. With his role on CHICAGO PD, summitt can now add primetime TV on his acting resume.

“I couldn’t be happier to tune in and watch scOtt on Chicago PD!”

Bundrent says. “He has worked diligently and made the most of every opportunity — and there have been many — we have thrown at him!”

summitt continues to practice his craft as a professional actor and build his career role by role, but he always comes back to his hometown roots in the Gem City.

scOtt took the time to answer some questions for us:

What made you return to Dayton from LA? “I’d lived there for nearly 4 years, and I’d gotten to a point where I was burned out from the hustle. LA is definitely a different world, and if you’re working to make it in the industry, it can really do a whammy on your self confidence. So many creative folks get lost out there or we lose them to drugs, alcohol, or suicide. Just so sad. I just wanted to get back to where I came from and get centered & grounded again, regroup and get a dose of reality.”

Photo credit: Taren Frazier Photograph

Is getting great roles while living in Dayton hard? “I think the electronic age we live in now has definitely leveled the playing field, geographically speaking. I was an early adopter of self-tape auditions. I’ve been able to audition from my bedroom and get cast in projects shooting all over the region. Actors from all over the world are auditioning for roles, so in that sense, being tech-savvy is a good skill that every actor should master.

But keep in mind, most of the leads are already cast in LA and NY, even when a big film may be shooting in Ohio, for example, the producers may cast supporting roles and day players locally, so there are lots of opportunities to audition for big projects in our region.
And there are sooo many independent filmmakers in our region, making great indie shorts and features where you can audition to play great roles in interesting stories. Film and content is always being created, so there are a lot of opportunities to get yourself in front of the camera as an actor.”
Share some advice for folks wanting to become be tv actors? “First, be clear on WHY you want to be an actor. If it’s something you just want to do for fun, there are lots of community theatre & student film opportunities open to you. But if you aim to work professionally, being clear on why you want to pursue an acting career is the first big step. You have to really love what you do and be prepared to take classes, train and learn your craft.
When I was starting out in Dayton, I had to create my own opportunities. It was a great place to live cheaply and start creating. I did community theatre, small film projects, took every opportunity to act and grow my talents. Now, up and coming filmmakers and creatives have wonderful resources and organizations like Film Dayton to help folks to learn and connect with one another to foster film collaborations.
Advice for beginning actors? Read plays and scripts. Do stage plays. Make your own short films with your iPhone and put them on YouTube.
Network, network, network! Collaborate and support your fellow filmmakers. Build a team of creatives who can help you in your own projects.
Remember, it’s a journey, so be patient, be professional and be persistent in working toward your goals.”

scOtt summitt plays characters who are smart, funny and a little quirky. An accomplished film, TV, stage & voiceover actor, scOtt appears in standout co-star and guest star roles on NBC, UPTV Network, Comedy Central, feature films & web series. On- camera, on-microphone, or on-stage, scOtt’s dedication and commitment to his craft, coupled with his focus and lively energy, always leave you wondering what’s next from the guy who’s offbeat, smart, and full of heart. scOtt is a proud member of SAG- AFTRA.

*Editorial Note: That’s not a typo…his name is actually spelled that way (all lower case with a capital O).

 

Dayton Rotary Announces The 2022 Irv Bieser Peace Award Recipient

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The Irv Bieser Peace Award was established by the Rotary Club of Dayton to honor an individual or organization in our community who demonstrates a commitment to peace and conflict resolution that Irv Bieser showed. Among many other community activities, Irv served in the Peace Corps and taught in Liberia where, years later, he was asked to join former President Jimmy Carter’s team to monitor the Presidential elections in that country.

Presenting  this year’s award to The Gem City Market were Ambassador Tony Hall and Rotary Chair of the Day Montgomery County Commissioner Carolyn Rice  Gem City Market has joined with multiple organizations around the world, including the Hall Hunger Initiative, to embrace the idea of “PEACE THROUGH FOOD”. Hunger creates conditions for conflict, stunts economic growth and development, and results in unstable communities.

The mission of Gem City Market is to serve, engage, and empower our neighborhoods by providing affordable, high-quality food in a clean and welcoming environment that is worker and community owned.

Co-ops are proven economic drivers and community builders.  Ownership in Gem City Market strengthens members’ commitment to their community and to local partners who share in the collective hope of West Dayton’s resurgence.

The Dayton Rotary and the Dayton Rotary Foundation are proud to have helped jump start the Gem City Market initiative with a $50,000 grant several years ago. They feel they have received a resounding return on their investment.  Accepting the award on behalf of Gem City Market was their President of the Board of Trustees, Amaha Sellassie.

Veleta Jenkins, a former English teacher at Dayton Job Corps and the founder and CEO of Library for Africa was the first recipient of this award.

About Dayton Rotary
The Rotary Club of Dayton is a fellowship of diverse business and professional leaders who commit their time and talent to staying informed and serving the club, the community and the world. The Rotary club of Dayton was  chartered as the 47th club of Rotary International on June 2, 1913.

They are a group of current and future leaders who work in government, in the corporate world or in the not-for-profit world while we focus on building productive relationships and serving our community. They are individuals from different genders, different races, different backgrounds, and different religions that meet every Monday in person and by zoom. The guiding principle for rotary is service above self. 

  

9 More Oktoberfest Celebrations!

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The Miami Valley has already celebrated it’s biggest Oktoberfest at the DAI this past weekend, but there are plenty more opportunities to don your lederhosen and dirndl and join in the  chicken dances and sing-alongs to giant pretzels and gingerbread necklaces. When toasting, make eye contact with your drinking compatriot and raise and clink your glasses together, shouting Prost! (Cheers!), before taking a swig.

 

MINSTER OKTOBERFEST

This fun filled festival provides delights for all. Come sing and dance to GERMAN MUSIC. Taste the hearty GERMAN FOODS. Watch the wonderful OKTOBERFEST PARADE featuring numerous colorful floats, area marching bands and celebrities. See the many events taking place in the Gazebo and the Spass Platz. Take part in the BEER TRAY RELAY, the OKTOBERFEST 10K RUN, and numerous other games. Visit the large ARTS & CRAFTS area.

OKTOBERFEST at DBC

Dayton Beer Company 41 Madison St, Dayton
 DBC is doing it up big this year with the festival to remember. Sticking true to our roots,  featuring beers from Dayton-area breweries, live music, food, and the Beer Feats of Strength games! Winning team gets a trophy and gift card! Enjoy a carefully-brewed Hefeweizen with a brat-kebab or take part in drinking games, both traditional and modern!
Help us celebrate the best time of year to share a beer and grab your tickets now!

Urbana Oktoberfest

Champaign County Historical Society 809 E. Lawn Ave, Urbana, OH

This will be held Sunday, October 2, 2022 10 am – 4 pm at the Champaign County Historical Society. We…

Oktoberfest Beer Dinner

BJ’s Brewhouse Austin Landing 10563 Innovation Drive, Miamisburg, OH
BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse, 2715 Fairfield Cmns, Beavercreek, OH 45431

You don’t need to go to Germany to get a taste of Oktoberfest!   Each course will feature a 5 ounce beer paring.  Tickets are $40 in advance, $45 at the door if available.

OKTOBERFEST BEER & FOOD PAIRING DINNER

The Wandering Griffin 3725 Presidential Drive, Beavercreek, OH

Grab your lederhosen because we’re hosting an Oktoberfest Bier Dinner here at the Wandering Griffin! Featuring five carefully crafted Bavarian plates prepared by Chef/Manager Chris Plummer, former Executvie Chef at the Wellington Grille.Paired with five hand-crafted German-centric biers brewed by our Founding Brewmiester, Dave Jennings. Early Bird Price : $45 (available until October 2nd then $50)

Xenia Oktoberfest

Break out your steins, it’s almost fall, and we are pleased to announce Xenia Oktoberfest will be held Saturday, October 8, from 12-10 pm on S. Detroit Street between Second and Third streets. Free concerts featuring local bands will be set up in front of Devil Wind Brewery; food trucks and local breweries and spirits will be available for purchase. No personal coolers allowed.

Beer o’clock begins at noon, highlighting beers from local breweries and wine from Caesar Creek Vineyards, and can be purchased either at Devil Wind or at the beer tent on the street.  Festivals and food go together, and this year’s food trucks include Schmidt’s sausage truck, Yummy Gyro, Phatty Wagon, Cupzilla and Pa’s Pork. There will be a cornhole tournament at 1 pm with proceeds benefiting Family Promise. Festival contests include a Stein Hold contest at 3:30, Braut Toss at 5:30, and Chicken Dance off at 7:30 pm. “We may not be Munich but you will have the most un-beer-lievable Oktoberfest!” says Blair Davis, co-chair of the Xenia Oktoberfest committee.

DLT OKTOBERFEST

Dayton Liederkranz Turner German Club 1400 E 5th St, Dayton, OH

Come join the fun— Be German for a night! Dust off the dirndls and lederhosen, grab your coolest stein and your best friends and head down to the Dayton Liederkranz Turner for Dayton’s most authentic Oktoberfest celebration. Join us for a CELEBRATION of authentic German food, music and beverages. Show off your strength at the Stein Holding Contest! FREE ADMISSION!.

Free

Oktoberfest

The Greene Town Center Courtyard 4452 Buckeye Lane, Beavercreek, OH

Oktoberfest at The Greene is back! Join us for a night filled with cold beer, German food, and live music from Spungewurthy!

Oktoberfest of Vandalia

Vandalia Rec Center 1111 Stonequarry Rd, Vandalia, OH

Bingo with Todd Moore on 9/9 The Menus will be back on 9/10 Craft tent Food Tent Beer Tent Hosted  by Sister Cities of Vandalia

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Unique Antique Shops in Miami County

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Let’s go antiquing through Miami County! Antiquing is an art form for many people and tells a story of times gone by. Around here, we are all about preserving the past while looking forward to the future.

Antiquing is a fun way to find new things, create new projects, and add a little character to your home. Many people spend hours crafting their antiquing strategies and mapping out the best plans, but we did the leg work for you! We rounded up a few of the most unique spots in Miami County for antiquing.

While all unique in their own right, some focus on preserving the historical meaning of the items while others are focused on giving the old things a new life and purpose.

Unique Antique Shops in Miami County, Ohio

The 3 Weird Sisters Studio

If you are looking for unique, chic art, and antiques, The 3 Weird Sisters Studio is for you! Centered in the heart of downtown Troy,  you can’t miss this unique spot!

Inside, you will find plenty of weird finds for unique minds. The shop features a collection of unusual trinkets, vintage items, handmade and local art, and clothing for men, women, and children.

This unique shop also features various reimagined home and garden decor. It’s a different experience every time you visit!

Location: 15 South Market Street | Troy, Ohio

Photo of The 3 Weird Sisters Studio - Troy, OH, United States

Midwest Memories Antiques

Midwest Memories Antiques is a vintage-inspired store, located in downtown Tipp City. With more than 100 dealers, this is the jackpot for design inspiration and unique finds!

The store offers a wide variety of furniture, collectibles, and locally crafted merchandise, such as apparel, home decor items, gifts, and more.

In addition to all the fantastic merchandise, visit the salvage area for reclaimed windows, doors, shutters, and hardware to add a little vintage flare to your home. Don’t forget to pick up your favorite shade of Annie Sloan Chalk paint to transform your project into your own.

If you are looking for guidance and inspiration, Midwest Memories Antiques also offers paint services, color mixing, and design assistance.

If you get thirsty during your shopping adventures, grab a refreshment from the in-store coffee bar.

Location: 24 W Main Street | Tipp City, Ohio

Patriot Antique Shoppe

Patriot Antique Shoppe is unlike any other antique shop in Miami County. This shop specializes in 18th and 19th-century American antiques, featuring portraits, quilts, trunks, and many other unique finds you won’t see anywhere else.

This shop is ideal for those who love preserving history and appreciating times gone-by. Aside from the usual antique items, you might also find farming and household tools, like a candle mold, burl bowl, or a tea cupboard.

Location: 15 N. 2nd Street | Tipp City, Ohio

Photo of Patriot Antique Shoppe - Tipp City, OH, United States. Exterior

The Mercantile

Filled with primitives and vintage finds, The Mercantile is a unique antique store located in Piqua, Ohio.

Here, you can find a mix of old and new items with a selection of home decor items, collector items, figurines, and so much more! The items in the shop have been sourced from local collectors, auctions, and area estate sales.

As the inventory is never the same, you might find treasures like Carnival and Fenton Glass, vintage mixing bowls, cast iron cooking pieces, repurposed lighting fixtures, and antique furniture.

Location: 415 N Main Street | Piqua, Ohio

Apple Tree Gallery

Specializing in vintage holiday decor, the Apple Tree Gallery is located in the heart of historic downtown Piqua. Year-round you will find antique items to fill your home with glad tidings of the Christmas season, or the spooky chills of Halloween!

If you want something special, this is the place for you!

Location: 405 N. Main St. | Piqua, Ohio

 

This post originally appeared on the Miami County Visitors & Convention Bureau blog.

Driver’s License Reinstatement Legal Help Clinic at DML

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Dayton Metro Library will host a free Driver’s License Reinstatement Legal Help Clinic on Friday September 30, from 1-5 pm, in the Bassani Theater Off Third, 3rd Floor. Patrons may meet with attorneys and local court professionals to discuss what may be prohibiting one from obtaining a license and approaches to license re-instatement.

The Driver’s License Reinstatement Legal Help Clinic is a walk-in event, and assistance will be provided on a first come, first serve basis based on attorney availability.

Volunteers from the following organizations include: Dayton Clerk of Courts, Montgomery County Law Office of the Public Defender, Kettering Municipal Court, Montgomery County Municipal Court, and Vandalia Municipal Court.

There will not be funds available at this clinic to pay any fines. For additional information about the clinic, please visit DaytonMetroLibrary.org/Programs or call the Library’s Ask Me Line at 937.463.2665.

 

Dayton Story Slam Kicks Off 7th Season

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Dayton Story Slam, which is based on Public Radio’s “The Moth” format, encourage local story tellers to share true stories, on the 3rd Tuesday of each month.  This Tuesday, September 20th at 7pm host Bryan Suddith will kick off the season with a story, then draws tellers names randomly from a hat, inviting that person to take the stage and share a five minute story with the audience.

2022 Grand Slam Champion LaTisha with the grand slam tellers.

Just like The Moth, “each show starts with a theme, and the storytellers explore it, often in unexpected ways. Since each story is true and every voice authentic, the shows dance between documentary and theater, creating a unique, intimate, and often enlightening experience for the audience.”

“When you can share from a vulnerable place what is different inside you based on that little event, those are the stories that people grab onto. It goes beyond socioeconomic status, what part of town you’re from, what color you are… The same elements appeal to everyone in the audience,” Suddith said.

Teams of judges chosen from the audience score the 10 highlighted stories. Every StorySLAM produces a StorySLAM winner. In June, the winners from each month are invited back for the Grand Slam and the Grand Champion is crowned.

Tips for Tellers:

  1. Be forewarned. Stories are told, not read.
  2. Have a great first line that sets up the stakes and grabs attention.
  3. Know your story well enough so you can have fun!
  4. Steer clear of meandering endings.
  5. No standup routines please.
  6. No rants.
  7. No essays.

Dayton Story Slam

Hosted by Wiley’s Comedy Club
101 Pine Street in the Oregon Distict

Doors open at 6:30pm, Show starts at 7pm

Tickets are $5 at the door,plus a 2 item minimum in the showroom.

South Park to Stage 1920s Murder Mystery Home Tour

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On Saturday, October 1, from 2-6 pm, Historic South Park invites “visiting detectives” to go back in time and help Dayton Police find a killer. “A Prohibition Scandal” is billed as “a guided neighborhood home tour with a twist.” Attendees will be led by the Chief Detective to five historic homes (one of which is rumored to have been a real 1920’s era speakeasy) where they will meet the suspects, witness scenes, ask questions, then meet a local establishment and compare clues over cocktails. Those who crack the case get a chance to win a $100 gift basket filled with swag from South Park and Dayton businesses.

The event — written, directed and acted by South Park residents — is a fundraiser for the neighborhood council, Historic South Park, Inc.  According to co-creators Sarah Dugan and Jeanine Gow, the narrative is inspired by real life in Dayton during the Roaring 20s.

One scene from “A Prohibition Scandal” will take place in the basement if a historic home on Morton Avenue, rumored to have been a 1920’s era speakeasy. It’s one of five homes included on the tour.

Says Sarah, “Our cast of characters include football players from The Dayton Triangles, the original NFL franchise, and suspects inspired by what was popular and newsworthy in Dayton in the 1920s. Besides speakeasies, we’ve taken our cues from vaudeville, spiritualism, glass manufacturing, immigrant communities, quack remedies, and life in the boarding houses that were found everywhere in Dayton at the time.”
So what’s the mystery? A talented but unscrupulous Dayton Triangles quarterback turns up dead and just about everyone is a suspect.

“The tour takes one-and-a-half hours to complete,” says Jeanine, “And we’ve kept the tour groups small. Tours begin at Hope Lutheran Church (500 Hickory Street). There are nine times to choose from, beginning at 2 pm and leaving every half hour with the last tour leaving at 6pm.”

As the tour ends, everyone will be encouraged to gather for a soft or spirited beverage at Wholly Grounds and submit their guess.

HOW TO PLAY DETECTIVE: Wear comfortable shoes! Plan to walk about one and a half miles.
Tickets: $28 at Eventbrite.
Who: You must be 21 years of age or older, since a cocktail is included in the ticket price.
What: “A Prohibition Scandal” is a guided interactive murder mystery event with stops at five beautiful historic homes, ending at a local drinking establishment.
When: Saturday, October 1, from 2-6 pm, tours leave every half hour.
Where: Hope Lutheran Church, 500 Hickory.
More info: Dr. Sarah Dugan, Historic South Park Inc. council member, (513) 324-722, [email protected] (email)