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DMM's Best Bets

Jane’s Best Bets (10/5 – 10/9)

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Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

It is going to be another great fall week in Dayton with plenty of things to do!

On Wednesday, it’s all about social justice, with a little theater and beer brewed in the mix.  At lunch time, attend the Awareness Luncheon at the Dayton Racquet Club to learn more about human trafficking or the Domestic Violence Vigil at Courthouse Square to remember the victims of domestic violence and to honor those survivors.  At the Schuster Center, you will be able to attend Mel Brooks’ ‘Young Frankenstein’.  And I didn’t forget the beer – there is a Beer Tasting at Trolley Stop, as well as a Beer Tasting with Beer Guru Charles at Rumbleseat Wine.

On Thursday, don’t miss your chance to get fresh produce at the Centerville Farmers Market.  You may have to wait another year for both Dayton’s and Minster’s Oktoberfests, but you will still have the opportunity to participate in Rue Dumaine’s Oktoberfest, with a special menu and beer selection!  One of the other great things about this time of year is pumpkin beer…and you will be able to have some with the Pumpkin Beer Tap Takeover at Spinoza’s or Pumpkin Beer Night at Thai 9.  And if you feel guilty about drinking beer, then pair it with religion with Theology on Tap at Oregon Express.  Wishing to jazz things up a bit?  Listen to Ed Clay and The Patrol as part of the Vectren Just Jazz Series at the Dayton Art Institute.  If you want to get involved in your community, join Generation Dayton for the event, Better Boards 101.  And at the Fraze in Kettering, participate in the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Light the Night Walk.

On Friday, if you enjoy discussing economic issues, then be sure to attend the Economic Summit on the Revitalization of Manufacturing at the Dayton Convention Center.  Friday is also First Friday downtown, so be sure to check out all the galleries, live music, demonstrations, the First Friday Scavenger Hunt, the Dayton Visual Arts Center’s Steamroller Prints: Flat-Out Fun, and much more!  At Victoria Theatre, “catch” The Flying Karamazov Brothers, whose show will involve music, comedy, dance, theater, and juggling.  Plus, there is a Buckeye Vodka Tasting prior to the show!  If you enjoy being spooked, then make your way to the Land Of Illusion Haunted Scream Park in Middletown.  At the Schuster Center, Mel Brooks’ ‘Young Frankenstein’ will still be showing.  And over at Sinclair, check out A Vintage Affair, in which you will be able to sample wines and unique beers, have a few hors d’oeuvres and desserts, take part in a silent auction, and enjoy jazz music.

On Saturday, kick-off your day with me at the Kickin’ It for Breast Cancer Fall Kickball Classic.  They have gone country at the 2nd Street Market with Saturday Live Music by The Johnsons.  Make a trip up to Yellow Springs for the Yellow Springs Street Fair.  Or make your “way” to Waynesville for the very popular Sauerkraut Festival – just be sure to get there early as it will be very “krauted”.  Oktoberfest celebrations are not over yet!  Head to the Dayton Liederkranz Turner German Club for their Oktoberfest Celebration.  There will also be beer at the Big Beers & Barley Wines Beer Fest 2011 at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds.  At Stivers, watch the amazing Dayton Contemporary Dance Company during their Fall Concert – Director’s Cut.  Attend Haunting Harmony at Centerville High School to listen to the Gem City Chorus, with some great guest artists including contestants from NBC’s The Sing Off. Or catch Mel Brooks’ ‘Young Frankenstein’ if you haven’t yet had an opportunity to do so.

On Sunday, kick it into gear by participating in the 35th Dayton River Corridor Classic Half-Marathon & 5k Run/Walk.  Head to Stivers to see the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company’s Director’s Cut.  Purchase some local goods at Garden Station Sunday Market.  In addition, you will be able to check out the Ohio Renaissance Festival, the Sauerkraut Festival, or Mel Brooks’ ‘Young Frankenstein’.

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

What do you call a clever monster?  Frank Einstein

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

Have a great week Dayton!

Jane’s Best Bets (9/28 – 10/2)

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Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

I hope you had the opportunity to sample some wonderful craft beers at Oktoberfest this past weekend!  Speaking of Oktoberfest, I am reminded of the fact that we switch from September to October this week.  I wish for you a great start into the new month…and here are some events that will hopefully help!

On Wednesday, join some amazing women for the Fourth Annual Women in Business Networking Conference.  At the Nutter Center, attend the Third Annual IBI/BBB Integrity Breakfast in order to get the inside scoop on integrity in the marketplace.  In the evening, after a hard day’s work (unless you work the 2nd or 3rd shift), make your way to the Dayton Racquet Club for Dueling Bartenders.  If you have a high schooler or if you know one, encourage him/her to attend College Prep Night at Fifth Third Field…there is a chance to win a $1,000 scholarship!  Interested in green initiatives?  Learn about the Neighborhood Stabilization Program which helps to make vacant and foreclosed homes green at Green Drinks September at Franco’s Ristorante Italiano.  Don’t forget to bring your paintbrush and some green paint!  My mom says left handed people are the only ones in their right mind.  However, at Chappy’s, they’re having the Left Hand Weak Sauce Porter Tapping…so I am guessing that despite the fact that lefties may be in their right mind, they are the weaker of the two.  Yes, I am right.

On Thursday, don’t get too spooked out when you go to the Schuster Center for the ‘PhilharMonster’ Halloween Concert.  Check out UD’s Department of Visual Arts with their Open House, where you will be able to see their new studios, galleries, classrooms, and much more.  If you’re a woman who loves purses, you won’t want to miss the Girls’ Night Out – Purse Swap at the Melting Pot.  You may be able to “coach” some of your girlfriends into going with you as well.  Mix one part beer and one part religion and you have Theology on Tap, which will take place at Oregon Express.  Or make a trip up to Cedarville University for their presentation of  ‘And Then There Were None’.

On Friday, get geared up for Gear Fest at Eastwood MetroPark.  If you like to drink beer from half-gallon jugs, then be sure to go to Minster’s Oktoberfest!  Just a tip – you may want to rent a big passenger van so you only have to have one DD!  Attend The Fourth Annual Blue Moon Affair at the Schuster Center, whose proceeds benefit the Community Action Partnership’s Youth Empowerment Center.  And finally, if you enjoy music and dance, and would like to help assist in the restoration of historical outdoor drama, attend the Caesar’s Ford Theatre Civil War Ball at Hope Hotel and Conference Center.

On Saturday we jump into October…and you can jump right back into Gear Fest at Eastwood Metro Park.  Support We Care Arts by attending the We Care Style Auction at the Mandalay Banquet Center.  If you like the color green, then participate in the Green Energy Ohio Tour.  And if you like pink, then attend Pink and Chrome – Ride for the Cure at Thomas Cloud Park.  Attend Resolve It! Solve It! with Six-Step Problem-Solving at the main branch of the Dayton Metro Library.  I’ve been told that their theme song is “Ice Ice Baby,” because after the workshop, you’re bound to be singing “If there was a problem, yo I’ll solve it.”  At the Dayton Art Institute, see Orla Fallon, a talented singer/harpist who has performed for the Pope as well as some former U.S. Presidents.  Enhance your cooking skills by attending El Meson’s Cooking Class.  I’m available if you need a taste tester!  You may have missed Oktoberfest this past weekend at the Dayton Art Institute, but if you make the trip up to Minster, you’ll be able to attend their version!  Have a unique dining experience at Carillon Park with their Tavern Dinners: Harvest Feast, which will feature a candlelit “hearth cooked and historically accurate multi-course supper.”  Or make your way to the Schuster Center for the Philharmonic Gala: Dance to the Music.

On Sunday, be sure to make it up to Minster if you haven’t yet for their Oktoberfest.  Does your pooch need a good cleaning?  Take him/her to A Taste of Wine for Wine, Washes & Wet Noses, where h e/she will be washed while you can sit back and enjoy a glass of wine.  And finally, at the Schuster Center, listen to the sounds of R&B/jazz artist Lalah Hathaway, with an opening act by the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company.

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

A three-legged dog walks into a bar and says to the bartender, “I’m looking for the guy who shot my Pa.”

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

Have a great week Dayton!

Jane’s Best Bets (9/21 – 9/25)

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Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

What a great weekend!  I enjoyed seeing so many people downtown on Friday for Urban Nights!  And I enjoyed my first ever Air Force Marathon experience, which was also my first ever racing experience since running track in kindergarten.  It was great to see so many people come from all parts of the country and world to be in Dayton!  Although you may not be running around base this week, you may be running around town trying to catch some of these great events!

On Wednesday, put on your cocktail dress (for ladies only), eat some delicious food, and get out your credit card to bid on some amazing silent auction items at From Homeless to Homefull at Carillon Park.  Proceeds benefit Homefull, an organization in Dayton that helps to end homelessness.  If you enjoy drinking, head to The Caroline for the Epic Brewing Tasting.  And for some evening entertainment in the Oregon Disrict, head to Trolley Stop for the Old Time Acoustic Jam, Oregon Express to listen to The Doug Hart Band, or Blind Bob’s for Karaoke with DJ Nancy.

On Thursday, buy local produce at the Centerville Farmers Market.  Knitting has become a pretty popular thing to do and not just for old ladies, so if you’re interested, make your way to Books & Co. at The Greene for Daytime Knitters.  Couponing has also become popular with all those crazy couponing shows.  Get started with the trend by attending Couponing 101 at the Miamisburg Senior Adult Center.  They say not to mix religion and politics, but it is perfectly okay to mix religion and beer, as Theology on Tap will be happening at Oregon Express.  At the Fox and Hound in Beavercreek, you will be able to buy love and support the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society with the Bachelor Auction for a Cure.  And finally, scientists and wannabe scientists – make plans to attend the inaugural Dayton Regional Science Festival Ignite Innovation: An Evening with Paula Apsell (Executive Producer of the PBS series NOVA) at The Engineers Club of Dayton.

On Friday, attend the BRAVO! 2011 Champagne Brunch and Fashion Show at Sinclair’s Ponitz Center or Ignite Innovation Lunch and Learn at the Schuster Center.  If you’re in the field of marketing/fundraising, then make your way to the Dayton Metro Library’s main branch for a workshop entitled, Writing to Make a Difference: How to Create Marketing Materials That Get Results.   At The Salvation Army Kroc Center, you will be able to attend the Human Rights & Dignity Banquet.  If you like mums, then be sure to attend the Tipp City Mum Festival.  Speaking of mums, it’s hard for me to keep mum about one of my favorite festivals of the year – Oktoberfest!  You can avoid the Oktoberfest crowds but still experience this great festival by getting your tickets to the DAI Oktoberfest Preview Party which is held Friday night!

On Saturday, start your day off on a healthy foot by participating in the Greater Dayton 5k Heart Walk and Run to support the American Heart Association.  Or take part in the St. Vincent de Paul – 2010 Friends of the Poor Walk.  Support Communication Services for the Deaf by playing in the Spikes for Tykes Volleyball Tournament at Setters.  Buy some great local products/produce at the 2nd Street Market and listen to live music by Old Skool, which will be playing a type of music I really like…the oldies!  Also on Saturday…several festivals will be going on, including the Germantown Pretzel Festival (Veterans Memorial Park in Germantown), the Chocolate Festival (Montgomery County Fairgrounds), Oktoberfest (Dayton Art Institute), and the Tipp City Mum Festival (downtown Tipp City).

On Sunday, head to the Garden Station Sunday Market for some great local produce.  Leap back into time by visiting a re-created 16th century English village with the Ohio Renaissance Festival.  And finally, remember that Sunday is your last chance to make it to the DAI Oktoberfest, the Tipp City Mum Festival, and the Germantown Pretzel Festival!

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

I went into the bank the other day and asked the teller to check my balance – she leaned over and pushed me.

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

Have a great week Dayton!

Jane’s Best Bets (9/14 – 9/18)

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Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

I must admit, I have a problem.  I’m indecisive, and Dayton isn’t helping since there are too many options from which to choose.  However, I’ve narrowed it down a bit and would like to provide you with some possibilities for the week!

On Wednesday, learn how to start a vegetable garden with Five Rivers Metro Parks’ Preparing a New Vegetable Bed class.  Enjoy some good wine at the Cameron Hughes Wine Tasting at Arrow Wine in Centerville or some good beer at the Beer Tasting with Beer Guru Charles at Rumbleseat Wine.  And if you enjoy theater, then make your way to The Loft Theatre to see God of Carnage.

On Thursday, there will be Apples Everywhere at the 2nd Street Market…well, I don’t want to lie.  They probably won’t be everywhere, but I’m sure there will be lots of them there.  Young professionals should definitely make their way to the Dayton Art Institute for jumpstART’s Jump into Fine Art!  For only $10, you get several things, including admission to their special exhibit, two Oktoberfest tickets, and much more.  Take that Groupon!  If you’re cheesy like me, then make your way to Dorothy Lane Market for the Cheeses of the World Show.  And if you’re a fitness pro unlike me, make plans to hit up the US Air Force Marathon Sports and Fitness Expo at the Nutter Center.  Runners have been instructed to pick up their bibs during this time, so they must think that runners are messy eaters.

On Friday, downtown is THE place to be.  PARK(ing) Day will be celebrated, which is a worldwide event in which metered parking spots are transformed into temporary parks.  During your lunch hour (or half hour), watch the SMAG Dance Collective as part of The Square Is Where at Courthouse Square.  And in the evening, Urban Nights is a MUST ATTEND event!  There will be tons to do, including Pecha Kucha Dayton Volume 8, as well as watching several crazy people (I can say that since I know some of them!) who are Going ‘Over the Edge’ for Big Brothers Big Sisters at the at Key Bank Tower.  You will also be able to combine the Urban Nights’ experience with the Taste of Miami Valley at RiverScape.  Some theater options for Friday include A Streetcar Named Desire at Xenia’s Kettering Health Network Theater; God of Carnage at The Loft Theatre; or Urinetown: The Musical at Centerville Schools Performing Arts Center…you know you gotta go.  Fling in the Springs will be happening up in Yellow Springs.  If you feel like being all “fitnessy”, then attend the US Air Force Marathon Sports and Fitness Expo at the Nutter Center.  And although Dayton’s Oktoberfest isn’t for another week, you can get a taste of it at Arrow Wine in Centerville during their 14th Annual Oktoberfest Celebration.

On Saturday, good luck to all the runners running in the Air Force Marathon.  And if you’re not a runner, you may want to avoid the traffic around base!  All you women out there (I know there are a lot of you) can head to the Dayton Airport Expo Center for the Dayton Women’s Fair.  Another type of fair/festival is happening in Yellow Springs – Fling in the Springs.  Consider seeing nearly 200 antique/classic automobiles and motorcycles as part of the The fifth Dayton Concours d’legance’s Preview Party at Carillon Park.  I’m all about pointing people in the right direction, so “I’m so excited” to tell you to head up north to the Clark State Performing Arts Center to see The Pointer Sisters.  Support United Rehabilitation Services by participating in the Rubber Duck Regatta at RiverScape.  Also there, you will be able to eat some delicious food as part of the Taste of Miami Valley.  If you live up north, no worries, as the Taste of Troy will also be happening on Saturday.  And if you ran in the marathon in the morning, then you definitely have to make up for all those calories you burned!

On Sunday, you’ll have the opportunity to check out some of the things you may have missed earlier in the weekend, such as the Dayton Women’s Fair or Fling in the Springs.  Some theater options include God of Carnage, A Streetcar Named Desire, and The Merry Wives of Windsor presented by Shakespeare in South Park.  Check out some antique/classic cars and motorcycles as part of The fifth Dayton Concours d’legance at Carillon Park.  And if you’re a pork fan, head to the Preble County Fairgrounds for the Preble County Pork Festival.

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

If a blonde and a brunette jumped off the Key Bank Tower, who would hit the ground first?

The brunette because the blonde would have to stop to ask for directions.

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

Have a great week Dayton!

Jane’s Best Bets (9/7 – 9/11)

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Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

This week, it’s all Greek to me.  Well, that’s not really the truth.  It’s only partially Greek, with a little Italian, a little German, and a little Hispanic, mixed in with many other things.  Variety is the spice of life, so if you want to spice up yours, check out some of these suggestions for things to do!

On Wednesday, make your way to Courthouse Square for The Square Is Where featuring Gary Hill (Solo Classic Rock).  Art lovers should hop on over to the University of Dayton’s Roesch Library Gallery for the University of Dayton Art Hop.  Looking to find a volunteer opportunity that matches your interests?  Consider attending Generation Dayton’s 2011 Volunteer Speed Match at the Dayton Racquet Club, where you will be able to “date” several non-profits in the area.  Also downtown, head to The Wine Gallery for their Weekly Wine Tasting or to the Trolley Stop for their Old Time Acoustic Jam.

On Thursday, there will be another “The Square Is Where” performance at Courthouse Square, which will feature Alabama Capital. If you are trying to eat healthier foods, consider making your way to the Centerville Farmers Market.  Head to McCormick & Schmick’s for their Greek Wine Dinner…make it a big fat party.  Although you may feel full afterwards, I don’t think it will make you permanently big and fat.  Don’t miss the nice weather and an opportunity to meet some of the players from the Dayton Silverback football team at Quaker Steak and Lube for their Bike Night.  Or head to Wings Sports Bar & Grille for their Weekly Cornhole Tournament.

Friday is when the Greek comes in – in a big fat way!  Go to the Dayton Greek Festival and be sure to eat a gyro…which is the result of butchering (unless you’re eating the vegetarian type) and whose name gets butchered on a regular basis.  The Italian also comes in with the Italian Fall Festa.  Both of these are awesome events that you do not want to miss.  They’re going on throughout the weekend, so make plans to head to one on Friday and the other on Saturday.  The Dayton Music Fest will be going on at a variety of locations this weekend to spotlight Dayton’s indie music scene.  So, music will also be ringing in your ears this weekend…perhaps literally with how loud speakers usually are!  (Please be sure to check out the link for a full listening of bands playing this weekend!)  All you ballerinas who have dreamed of making it big should put on your tutus and head to Victoria Theatre for the Dayton Ballet II Open Auditions.  And if you’re interested in theater, check out The Oldest Profession at the Dayton Theatre Guild or God of Carnage at The Loft Theatre.

On Saturday, you will again be able to get some fresh and healthy produce at the Troy Farmers Market or at the PNC 2nd Street Market, where there will be live music by Eli Everhart.  In addition to the Dayton Greek Festival and the Italian Fall Festa, you will be able to head to RiverScape for the Hispanic Heritage Festival.  If you’re German (or even if you’re not), participate in the German Wine Tasting at Arrow Wine in Centerville.  I’m usually used to German beer, but I’m guessing they have good wine too!  In addition, don’t miss some great live music as part of Dayton Music Fest…there are TONS of options at a variety of places including Canal Street Tavern, Oregon Express, Trolley Stop, and Blind Bob’s.

On Sunday, if you didn’t have a chance because you were working on some home improvement project (or something like that), be sure to check out either the Italian Fall Festa or the Dayton Greek Festival.  There are a couple other festivals going on including Guitar Fest at Stubbs Amphitheater and the Ohio Renaissance Festival.  Enjoy locally grown produce and locally made crafts at the Garden Station Sunday Market.  Make your way to Sinclair for A Day of Remembrance in order to observe the 10th Anniversary of 9/11.  At the Dayton Art Institute, enjoy one of their exhibits, including Exhibit: ‘Trash? Look Again’ and From Romance to Rifles: Winslow Homer’s Illustrations of 19th-Century America.  And if you feel like heading to your local bar or sitting on your couch to watch NFL football, that is perfectly okay too.

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

Wear short sleeves…support your right to bare arms!

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

Have a great week Dayton!

Jane’s Best Bets (8/24 – 8/28)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Have a great week Dayton!

Jane’s Best Bets (8/17 – 8/21)

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Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Have a great week Dayton!

Jane’s Best Bets (8/10 – 8/14)

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Guest Bartending Last Week at The Moraine Embassy!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Have a great week Dayton!

Jane’s Best Bets (7/27 – 7/31)

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Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

Happy Restaurant Week! Hopefully you have already started taking advantage of some of the great deals at our area’s fabulous restaurants.  In addition to Restaurant Week, here are a few other options of things to do in Dayton.

On Wednesday, celebrate the Submarine House’s One Year Anniversary (Beavercreek Bar and Grill), where they will have great specials, as well as prizes and raffles.  During your lunch hour, listen to Frequency, an a’capella group who will be performing at Courthouse Square as part of The Square Is Where.  Wish you could be like Tiffany’s and make your own jewelry?  Consider heading to the Cannery Art and Design Center for Art by the Glass.  Learn about how to shop at farmers’ markets and what questions to ask, all the while consuming a tasty beverage as part of Dayton Green Drinks at Company7 BBQ.  Flock to Pasha Grill for their FLOC (For the Love of Children) Charity Dinner, which will help to support children who have been neglected, abused, or are in foster care.  And if it’s not too hot, consider listening to music as part of Jazz on the Green at Yankee Trace or watching the Dragons play the Fort Wayne Tincaps.

On Thursday, utilize what you learned on Wednesday at the Dayton Green Drinks event and pick up some fresh local produce at the Centerville Farmers Market.  If you love wine but don’t want to break the bank, stumble your way to Arrow Wine in Centerville for a wine tasting featuring wines under $20.  You will be able to drink wine AND exercise as part of Grape and Lotus: A Wine and Yoga Practice at Metropolitan Arts Center.  For some live music, make your way to Dublin Pub to see Nick Mitchell or to RiverScape for their Big Band Nights featuring the Dayton Jazz Orchestra.  In addition, the Dragons will continue their series against the Fort Wayne Tincaps.

On Friday, be sure to be downtown, as that is where all the best bets are.  Listen to another concert at Courthouse Square during your lunch hour for The Square Is Where, where Minions of Fate will be performing.  If you are a beer lover, you are in luck, as there will be an Epic Brewery Welcome to Ohio Party at Lucky’s.  At Victoria Theatre, watch Young Frankenstein as part of the Michelob Ultra Cool Films Series.  At Fifth Third Field, catch the Dayton Dragons as they once again play the Fort Wayne Tincaps.  And finally, whether you are Irish or not, you will not want to miss the Dayton Celtic Festival!

On Saturday, take the kids to the 2nd Street Market for Kids Day.  I told you not to miss the Dayton Celtic Festival on Friday, but if you did, you must put it at the top of your list for Saturday.  And if you already went on Friday, you can still go as well!  In addition to the many festivities already going on, there will be 5K Run/Walk in order to burn off the calories from all that Irish beer!  Also at RiverScape, you will be able to take part in the Dayton River Ride.  Over at Wegerzyn Gardens, watch A Midsummer Nights Dream, presented by Free Shakespeare.  If you feel like catching a movie in an ultra cool place, then be sure to head to Victoria Theatre for the Michelob Ultra Cool Films Series, where Blazing Saddles will be shown.  Art lovers should plan to attend DVAC’s 20th Birthday Bash.  After all, who doesn’t love a birthday party?  And if you’re caught up in good 80s music, then be sure to get your tickets to see 38 Special at the Fraze…and hold on tightly to them!

On Sunday, start your day off right with the Dayton Celtic Festival Breakfast at RiverScape, followed by their Bike Ride.  Then enjoy the rest of the Festival’s festivities.  You will also be able to listen to live music at Stubbs Amphitheater in Centerville by the Sound Body Jazz Orchestra or at Riverfront Park in Miamisburg for the Pizzazz in the Park Concert Series featuring Chazz. And if you prefer to stay indoors, watch The Producers as part of the Michelob Ultra Cool Films Series at Victoria Theatre.

Plus…don’t forget that this week is Restaurant Week, so be sure to make reservations at your favorite restaurants all week long!

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

What’s the definition of a farmer?  One who is outstanding in his field.

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

Have a great week Dayton!

Jane’s Best Bets (7/20 – 7/24)

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Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

As you may have figured out, in the summer, Dayton is a hot place to be…in more ways than one!  So get your hot self out of the house, take the air conditioned car, and enjoy some of these fun events, as things will be buzzing!

On Wednesday, enjoy $5 Bang Bang Shrimp at Bonefish Grill.  Wear your green and watch the Dragons play the Peoria Chiefs at Fifth Third Field.  Or wear your tap shoes and head to Archer’s in Centerville for their A.Y.O.B. where they will be “tapping” a new beer.  And in Kettering, watch The Fries Band as they put on a wonderful (and free!) show at the Fraze Pavilion.

On Thursday, take your kids out to Cooper Park for Story Hour, which is sponsored by Five Rivers MetroParks and the Dayton Metro Library.  Enjoy a performance by the Muse Machine as well as a delicious lunch at the Dayton Woman’s Club.  If you work downtown, then consider heading to Courthouse Square during your lunch hour for The Square Is Where… McGovern Ceili Dancers.  At El Rancho Grande, enjoy 1/2 price Ladies Night.  Or sing your heart out at Champps for Karaoke Thursday.

On Friday, head to RiverScape for their Try Kayaking event, which is completely free!  If you’re a kayaking newbie, it’s definitely something worth checking out.  At Victoria Theatre, enjoy their Michelob Ultra Cool Film Series where the movie One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest will be shown.  If you’re frequently late, be sure to arrive early this time to enjoy the Cool Film Series Beer Tasting!  At Oregon Express, enjoy Half-Price Happy Hour Pizzas, which are absolutely delicious.  It’s mid-summer, so consider watching A Midsummer Night’s Dream presented by Free Shakespeare at Antioch Amphitheater.  Or watch ‘The Sound of Music’ at Epiphany Lutheran Church.  And if you’re a macho man and would prefer to be at a sporting event, then head to Fifth-Third Field as the Dragons take on the Peoria Chiefs.

On Saturday, you will not want to miss the annual Dayton Air Show.  If you enjoyed learning about kayaking and didn’t flip out like I did when I went kayaking the last time (literally!), then consider renting a kayak at RiverScape and Ride the River.  Take the entire family to the Warren County “Fair” if you appreciate equality.  At the Dayton Art Institute, they will be having Sound Bites: Short Talks About Art.  One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest will still be shown as part of the Michelob Ultra Cool Films Series at Victoria Theatre.  Again, they will have the Cool Films Series Beer Tasting prior to the show.  Please don’t drink too much beforehand or you may actually feel like you’re going cuckoo during the movie.  If you would rather catch a live performance, then check out ‘The Sound of Music’at Epiphany Lutheran Church.  Join Noah and two of each kind of animal at RiverScape as part of their Free Summer Concert Series featuring The Ark Band.  And if you don’t feel like things are buzzing around town, then you’ll just have to go over to Fifth Third Field to see the Dragons take on the Burlington Bees.

On Sunday, you will still be able to enjoy the Dayton Air Show.  At Antoich Amphitheater, watch A Midsummer Night’s Dream…just don’t fall asleep because that would be rude.  You can also listen to music at Miamisburg’s Riverfront Park with their Pizzazz in the Park Concert Series featuring Phat Like Dad or at Centerville’s Stubbs Amphitheater as The Lebanon Grand Opry House Band will be performing.  And finally, don’t miss your opportunity to get a buzz at Fifth Third Field as the Dragons once again play the Burlington Bees…with some buzzing really going on at the plaza as part of their Charity Cuts!

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

Where does a bee sit?  On his bee-hind.

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

Have a great week Dayton!

Jane’s Best Bets (7/13 – 7/17)

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Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

First off, I would like to say congratulations to the Dayton Dragons on setting the national record for sports sell-outs this past weekend…what an accomplishment!  We do truly live in a great city!  And I’d like to prove it once again by letting you know about some of the great things going on here this week!

On Wednesday, take a break from work and head to The Square Is Where… Yoga Class from Practice Yoga at Courthouse Square.  If you haven’t been getting enough beauty sleep lately, consider going to La Comedia to see Sleeping Beauty.  Listen to music at Yankee Trace with Jazz on the Green or at Veteran’s Park Amphitheater with The Dark Star Orchestra.  And if you’re in need of a good laugh, then head to Wiley’s for their Dirty Little Secret Superhero Show.

On Thursday, there are several great happy hour options so you are going to have some tough decisions to make!  If you are an enthusiastic young professional, join Generation Dayton at El Meson for Thirsty Thursday.  It’s Thursday Night Live at the Moraine Embassy, so let DaytonMostMetro.com’s very own Bill Pote and Lisa Grigsby help take care of you, as they will be the celebrity bartenders on hand.  Grab dinner and drinks at one of the fabulous restaurants at The Greene such as McCormick & Schmick’s and then sit on the green (literally) to watch as Ed Kowalczyk, the lead singer of Live performs.  Check out three of the Oregon District’s new businesses as part of their Progressive Open House, where each business will have live performances by jazz and classical musicians, as well as raffles!  Bring the whole family to see Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at The Salvation Army Kroc Center – tickets are FREE!  Or help support the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society by getting your tickets to see ‘The Sound of Music’ at Epiphany Lutheran Church.  And finally, listen to live music at the Dayton Art Institute for a Twilight Concert or at RiverScape for their Big Band Nights featuring the Eddie Brookshire Orchestra.

On Friday, bring your kids to the PNC 2nd Street Market for Pasta Making for Kids…afterall, wouldn’t it be nice if they made you dinner for a change?!?!  If you love biking, consider taking part in the Greene Trails Cycling Classic at the Greene County Fairgrounds Recreation Center.  Although this is a four-day event, you are able to “Design-A-Ride” that fits your schedule.  Art lovers should make plans to attend the 20th Annual Open Members’ Show: Light at the Dayton Visual Arts Center.  Head to the Beavercreek Kroger for their Wine and Food Extravaganza.  Once again, you will be able to support the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society by going to Epiphany Lutheran Church for The Sound of Music’.  Have a nerds night out at Xenia Area Community Theater as part of Nerd Comedy Night.  If you prefer to be cool, head to Victoria Theatre to see “Some Like It Hot” as part of the Michelob Ultra Cool Films Series.  And if you actually do like it hot, then make your way to Bella Villa Hall for the The Bocce Classic XVI.

On Saturday, if you enjoy seeing beautiful irises (the flower kind), then you will want to be at the PNC 2nd Street Market for their Iris Sale.  At RiverScape, get in shape with Zumba in the Park or participate in their Kayak Float.  Support A Special Wish Foundation by attending Fajita Fest at the Polish Club.  Listen to the sounds of  Michael Bashaw & Puzzle of Light and the Rippingtons at Veteran’s Park Amphitheater, the Bob Gray Orchestra at Stubbs Amphitheater, Son Del Caribe as part of the Free Summer Concert Series at RiverScape, or Trace Adkins at the Fraze Pavilion.  Over at

Trace Adkins at the Fraze

Fifth-Third Field, the Bob Ross Classic will be going on, which is an All-Star Baseball Game for local high school baseball players.  And if you would like to watch some great fights, head over to Drake’s Downtown for Fight Night…just be sure you don’t get into one yourself!

On Sunday, the Fraze will be having WTUE’s Breakfast with The Beatles and The Beatleburys.  Baby you can drive your car there…sorry I’m not going to let you drive mine!  If you would rather ride a bike, then participate in the Greene Trails Cycling Classic, which will still be going strong.  Watch belly dancers and fire jugglers, listen to live music, and MUCH more at the Fling in the Springs (downtown Yellow Springs).  A trip to Dave Hall Plaza for the Downtown Summer Music Series – Michelob Dayton Blues Festival is a must for all blues fans out there!  You will also be able to listen to music at Stubbs Amphitheater in Centerville (The Termites) and at Riverfront Park in Miamisburg (Pizzazz in the Park Concert Series: Paragon Quartet).  And if you’re not the outdoors type, then you can go to Victoria Theatre to see “Some Like It Hot” as part of the Michelob Ultra Cool Films Series or to Epiphany Lutheran Church for The Sound of Music’.

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

Why did the coach kick Cinderella off the baseball team?

Because she ran away from the ball.

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

Have a great week Dayton!

Jane’s Best Bets (7/6 – 7/10)

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Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

Although your trash pick-up may be delayed a day due to the 4th of July holiday, I decided that I would not take that same liberty, even though that is what the 4th is about.  So without delay, here is my weekly list of best bets.

On Wednesday, beer lovers will have a couple of options including the Beer Tasting with Beer Guru Charles at Rumbleseat Wine and the Beer Tasting at Trolley Stop.  If you prefer wine, there are also some options for you.  You will be able to attend the Weekly Wine Tasting at The Wine Gallery or the Wine Tasting at Bruning’s Wine Cellar.  At the Fraze Pavilion, listen to Prism Brass, a large brass ensemble from the United States Air Force Band of Flight.  And if you feel the love tonight, head to the Schuster Center to see The Lion King…and hurry because it’s the last week for it!

On Thursday, during your lunch hour, walk to Courthouse Square for The Square Is Where… Brownwen’s Belly Dancers.  If you love fresh veggies, you may tell a friend, “’Lettuce head’ to the Centerville shopping center for the Centerville Farmers Market.” Although the work week may be short for many of you, if you’re feeling a little stressed, grab a drink at the Moraine Embassy for their After Work Thursdays.  At RiverScape, you will be able to listen to Big Band Nights: Pam Noah and Her Big Band.  Show your athleticism by participating in the Weekly Cornhole Tournament at Wings Sports Bar & Grille.  And even if you have seen The Lion King, you will have the opportunity to see it again at the Schuster Center.  And don’t feel badly…I have friends who saw it and loved it so much that they are seeing it again!

On Friday, participate in the Beer Tasting at Arrow Wine in Centerville. If you’re a parent who can’t wait until your kids are back in school so you can have some adult time, consider attending the Parents Night Out at the Vandalia Rec Center.  At Victoria Theatre, see  The Bridge on the River Kwai as part of the Michelob Ultra Cool Films Series.  If you didn’t have a chance to catch the Parrots of the Caribbean last week at the Fraze Pavilion, consider checking them out at Turner Pavilion (Veterans Park).  Country music lovers will not want to miss County Concert 2011 in Fort Loramie.  The drive up there will be well worth it, as some of the top stars in country music will be there, including Carrie Underwood and Lady Antebellum.  And if you are lucky enough to have a ticket to the sold out concert, get ready to see the Temptations as they play at Fraze Pavilion…I guarantee it will put you on cloud nine!

Mud Volleyball for Epilepsy

On Saturday, John Deere fans (not Dear John fans) need to make plans to attend the Farm Heritage Show at Young’s Jersey Dairy, which will feature vintage tractors, farm machinery, and much more!  Get down and get dirty for Mud Volleyball for Epilepsy at Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark.  At PNC 2nd Street Market, there will be a lot going on, including City Beets at the Market (you can purchase vegetables and flowers from kids that have grown them as part of a summer program at Wegerzyn Gardens), Make Your Own Salsa, and Reggae Music from Demolition Crew.  At Jungle Jim’s, enjoy their Australia Imports Wine Tasting.  Head to Sip of Summer, an event in Sprinfield featuring specialty beers and wines, as well as live music!  County Concert 2011 will still be strumming along up in Fort Loramie!  If you’d like to listen to live music in Dayton, this groupie is going to encourage you to see The Fries as part of the Free Summer Concert Series at RiverScape.  Hippies, hippie wannabes, and jazz lovers can attend the Jazz & Peace Festival at Stubbs Park.  And at the Fraze Pavilion, experience live music and great food as part of the Kickin’ Chicken Wing Fest 2011.  These last three events are FREE!  See…entertainment in Dayton doesn’t have to cost a fortune!

Disney's THE LION KING - Victoria Theatre Association, Dayton, OhioOn Sunday, if you don’t have any plans, hakuna matata (it means no worries)!  You still can get your tickets to see The Lion King at the Schuster Center.  If you’d like a good meal without having to cook, make your way to Carvers for their 3 course $20 Sunday Meal.  Live music lovers may want to “pick” Soul Pocket at Stubbs Park…please no pick pockets.  If you would like to listen to live music AND eat ice cream, head on over to Riverfront Park in Miamisburg for their Ice Cream Social & a concert by the Kettering Banjo Society.  And if you prefer to be in the AC, consider making a trip to the Dayton Art Institute for one of their exhibits, such as Creating the New Century: Contemporary Art from the Dicke Collection, the ‘Trash? Look Again’ Exhibit, or From Romance to Rifles: Winslow Homer’s Illustrations of 19th-Century America.

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

What happens when you play country music backwards?  You get your job back, your car back, you wife back…

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

Have a great week Dayton!

Jane’s Best Bets (6/29 – 7/4)

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Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

Can you believe the 4th of July is already upon us?  Let’s have a great red, white, and blue week!

On Wednesday, you will be able to enjoy a special Beer Tasting with Beer Guru Charles at Rumbleseat Wine.  Sports fanatics should plan to watch the Dragons as they play the Lansing Lugnuts at Fifth Third Field.  If you have a constant craving for live music, listen to k.d. lang and the Siss Boom Bang at the Fraze Pavilion or make your way to Yankee Trace for Jazz on the Green.  And if you love musicals but prefer to stay indoors, make sure you have your tickets to see The Lion King at the Schuster Center.

On Thursday, head to The Moraine Embassy for After Work Thursdays.  If it’s your date night, take your honey out for a delicious dinner at Coco’s Bistro, where they will be offering 1/2 Price Wine by the Bottle.  If you haven’t yet been to a Pecha Kucha, I encourage you to go to the Yellow Cab Building for Volume 7.  It will be a great idea sharing party, with short presentations by a wonderful and diverse group of people!  (For more info, check out the article here.)   And finally, all of you who would like to hang out in Margaritaville should be sure to get your tickets to see Parrots of the Caribbean as part of the 7th Annual Concert for Literacy at the Fraze Pavilion.

On Friday, put your gardening skills to good use at RiverScape with RiverScape Gardeners.  Although you may not be taking that Italian vacation this summer, you can still see Reflections of Italy at Elaine Balsley Fine Art.  In the evening, you will want to be downtown for First Friday, which is a monthly art hop held at several locations throughout downtown.  (For more info, you can click here.)  If you’re a biker, enjoy the summer weather and participate in the Courteous Mass Ride, starting at Fifth-Third Field.  Also there, you will be able to catch the Dragons game where they will be playing the Bowling Green Hot Rods.  In addition, the Cityfolk Festival will be going on at RiverScape.  Or for a blast from the past, head to De’Lish for An Intimate Evening with Chico DeBarge.  And if for some odd reason you’re not downtown, it is perfectly acceptable only if you are wearing your boogie shoes and getting down tonight with KC & The Sunshine Band at Fraze Pavilion.

On Saturday, RiverScape is the place to be.  Consider “Riding the River” with their kayak rentals, or joining in the fun at the Cityfolk Festival.  Over at Fifth Third Field, the Dayton Dragons will be playing the Bowling Green Hot Rods.  Or, you can catch The Lion King (please don’t actually take him home) at the Schuster Center.

On Sunday, the Cityfolk Festival will still be going strong.  There are also a variety of celebrations around the Miami Valley, including the Fairborn Family Block Party, the Star Spangled Celebration at Vandalia Sports Complex, and the Annual Fireworks Buffet at the Dayton Racquet Club.  Also, if you’re downtown, be sure to see the City of Dayton Fireworks!

On Monday (hopefully you have the day off work!), there are several 4th of July celebrations in the area, such as the Americana Festival – Street Fair (Centerville/Washington Township), the Fairborn 4th Parade
at Fairborn Plaza, the Beavercreek 4th of July Festival at Rotary Park, and Kettering’s Go 4th Celebration at Delco Park.  And if you’re not at one of them, hopefully you’re celebrating the day by cooking out with family and friends!

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

What did one flag say to the other flag?  Nothing, it just waved.

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

Have a great week Dayton!

Jane’s Best Bets (6/22 – 6/26)

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Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

Holy moly, there are a ton of things going on this week!  Speaking of “holy,” this week there are several church festivals…plus many more great events.  Let’s check them out!

On Wednesday during your lunch hour, get moving with The Square Is Where… Dayton YMCA Presents Zumba at Courthouse Square.  If you feel like having a drink, head to A.Y.O.B. at Archer’s Tavern, where a new craft beer will be featured starting at 5PM or to Franco’s for Dayton Green Drinks, where they will be discussing the Pathways out of Poverty Program.  I do believe it is officially summer, so even though you may not be taking that big European vacation you’ve dreamed about, you can still have a Summer Around The World Wine Dinner at The Wine Loft.  If cycling is your thing, you will not want to miss seeing Bicycle Dreams, the award-winning feature-length documentary about the Race Across America, being featured at The Neon.  All women who are looking for an opportunity to make an impact in the lives of others in the Dayton area should consider attending the Junior League of Dayton New Member Social.  This amazing group makes great contributions to our community, and you have the opportunity to be a part of it…as long as you’re not a man!  If you’re in need of a good laugh, make your way to Wiley’s for their Dirty Little Secret Sideshow – Deuxième Exécution.  And if you’re a Harley lover that also enjoys live music, head to Jackass Flats for Buddha & The Boogie Down Gig/Bike Night.

Disney's THE LION KING - Victoria Theatre Association, Dayton, OhioOn Thursday, complete some of your grocery shopping at the Centerville Farmers Market.  If you work or volunteer for a non-profit, consider helping the cause by attending Orientation to the Grants Information Center at the Dayton Metro Library’s main branch.  You will be able to hear live music at the Dayton Art Institute as part of their Twilight Concert.  Jim McCutcheon, a very talented guitarist (who also taught me two semesters worth of guitar when I was at UD!), will be one of the performers.  If you wish to show a bit of your athleticism, make your way to Wings Sports Bar & Grille for their Weekly Cornhole Tournament.  You know I’m corny, so I had to put that in here.  And finally, if you have not yet had the opportunity to check out The Lion King at the Schuster Center, now is your chance!

On Friday, there are an enormous number of wonderful events from which to choose!  In the afternoon, if you don’t have lunch plans, consider joining Generation Dayton for their 4th Friday Lunch Speaker Series.  Or have some fun at Courthouse Square with the Team Void Summer Twist Party.  In the evening, join me in attending the Hops Over the Moon Preview Party at the Boonshoft, which will feature too many great things to list…seriously!  (For more info, check out this article.)  If you’re in shape, run the 5th Annual 5 For the Kids 5K to benefit CARE House.  And even if you’re not, that is okay too!  There are several festivals happening around town, including the Fenwick Festival (my alma mater!), the Ascension Festival, and the St. Peter Parish Festival.  At Yankee Trace, many people will be playing golf as part of the 2nd Annual Glow Fore Wishes Golf Scramble to benefit A Special Wish Foundation.  Although registration is full for the event, there are still several sponsorship and volunteer opportunities, so if you are able to help, I encourage you to do so!  And if you feel like catching a show, Hair Spray at La Comedia and The Lion King at the Schuster Center are possible options!

On Saturday, start the day off with another 5k – the First Annual Back to Health 5k, held at Indian Riffle Park.  Up in Troy, get some great produce as part of the Troy Farmers Market.  If you are a teacher, consider going to the Dayton Metro Library’s main branch for the Grants for Classroom Projects.  There are a lot of family friendly options for Saturday, including the Family Fun Day Beach Party & Cruise in at Hueston Woods, the Fenwick Festival, the St. Peter Parish Festival, and the Ascension Festival.  In addition, if you’re of the corny type, Ascension will have its very own Festival Cornhole Tournament.  At RiverScape, rent a kayak and ride the river.  Make sure you wear a life jacket as I once flipped over in an “unflippable” kayak, or so I’m told.  Just leave it to me to do the impossible (I’m sure this won’t happen to you, however)!  In the evening, make your way to the Boonshoft (kids are welcome!) for Hops Over the Moon, which is sure to be a great time, and also supports a great cause!  There are a couple other fun events, including the Clambake For Kids’ Sake at McCormick & Schmicks to support Big Brothers Big Sisters and Party Arty! at the Commander Aero Hangar (Dayton Wright Brothers Airport) to support Culture Works.  Theater options include The Lion King (Schuster Center) and Hair Spray (La Comedia).  And if you’re downtown and love summer concerts, listen to the sounds of Kick-n-Flava as part of the Free Summer Concert Series down at RiverScape.  Wow, my fingers are getting tired from typing all this stuff going on around town!

On Sunday, if you (and your kids) have any energy left, make your way to one of the great festivals going on around town – the Fenwick Festival, the St. Peter Festival, or the Ascension Festival.  If your kids are Disney lovers, consider taking them to Dayton Disneyana at the Holiday Inn  close to the Dayton Mall.  Listen to some of the best local female jazz vocalists as part of the Downtown Summer Music Series – Michelob Women in Jazz Festival at Dave Hall Plaza.  Or at Veteran’s Park Amphitheater, listen to live music as part of World Music Fest!  And finally, hurry up and get to the Schuster Center to see The Lion King if you haven’t already done so!

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

How does a man on the moon cut his hair?

Eclipse it.

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

Have a great week Dayton!

Jane’s Best Bets (6/15 – 6/19)

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Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

After two weeks free of Jane’s Best Bets, you may have thought that you had successfully gotten rid of me (and my dumb jokes).  Sorry to burst your bubble, but that is not the case.  Here is a listing of some events going on this week, including the opening of The Lion King. Speaking of lions, let’s go ahead and get to the “mane” events!

On Wednesday, bring out your creative side with Creative Card Making at the Dayton Art Institute.  For those of you thinking of starting your own business, make your way to The Entrepreneurs Center for their New Business Information Session.  At the Fraze, enjoy the Austrian Festival Spass Nacht…which is absolutely free!  Listen to Jazz on the Green at Yankee Trace Golf Club.  And finally, I’m not “lion” to you when I tell you that you don’t want to miss Disney’s The Lion King, which is being performed at the Schuster Center.  (It is being performed through July 10th, so even if you don’t get to see it this week, you’ll still have an opportunity!)

On Thursday, all you gardening gurus can put your talents to good use at Riverscape as part of RiverScape Gardeners.  I’m definitely not in that crop.  Instead of planting my own garden, I’d prefer to get vegetables at the grocery or at a place like Centerville Farmers Market, located at Centerville Shopping Center.  If you are all about networking and live up north (or don’t mind making your way up there), attend ‘Be An Exceptional Presenter’, which is a free networking event featuring Gary Mull as the guest speaker at Club 55.  At the Dayton Art Institute, attend the Twilight Concert (not to be confused with that Twilight vampire series, which I am still clueless about).  Let your hair down (or put your hair back) and head to La Comedia to see the popular musical Hair Spray.  Or go to Veteran’s Park Amphitheater for Annie Get Your Gun.  And if you feel like singing yourself, make your way to Champps for Karaoke Thursdays.

The Fabulous Menus!

On Friday, all live music lovers will want to attend the Ole’ Tyme Music Festival at Caesar’s Creek Pioneer Village.  If you’re not there, then I order you to catch one of my favorite bands, The Menus, as they play at Sharkey’s.  Beer lovers should make plans to attend the 6th International Beer Fest at Jungle Jim’s.  At Fifth Third Field, watch as the Dragons take on the Lansing Lugnuts.  And if you want to experience theater, be sure to get your tickets to see Hair Spray at La Comedia, Annie Get Your Gun at Veterans Memorial Park, Disney’s The Lion King at the Schuster Center, or The Signature: A Poetic Medley Show at The Loft Theatre

On Saturday, visit Practice Yoga on Fifth for their Birthday Party/Open House, which will include FREE classes, live music, mini-massages, and much more!  Don’t know how to bake but love to decorate?  Consider heading to Ele Cake Company and decorate a cake for your dad for their Father’s Day DYO Cake.  It’s picnicking season, so find out about Healthy Picnic Foods at PNC 2nd Street Market.  While downtown, you’ll also be able to participate in the Kayak Float/Ride the River Rentals at RiverScape and then later listen to the sounds of Bonneville as part of the Free Summer Concert Series.  All you 80s music lovers should go go to the Fraze to catch the GoGo’s and the B-52’s as part of Mix 107.7 Summerfest.  I just couldn’t keep my lips sealed about that one.  If you would prefer to stay inside, then catch one of these shows:  Disney’s The Lion King (Schuster Center), Hair Spray (La Comedia), or Annie Get Your Gun (Veterans Memorial Park).  And if you want to get groovin’, head to Caesar’s Creek Pioneer Village for the Ole’ Tyme Music Festival.

On Sunday, be sure to wish the fathers you know a Happy Father’s Day.  Several places will be offering brunch, including the Dayton Woman’s Club (I find that kind of ironic), Boulevard Haus, Blind Bob’s, or the Dublin Pub.  Afterwards, take your dad to watch the Dragons play the Lansing Lugnuts at Fifth-Third Field.  And if he likes doing outdoor activities, take him to RiverScape where there will be Ride the River Rentals.

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

What do you call a show full of lions?

The mane event.

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

Have a great week Dayton!

Jane’s Best Bets (5/25 – 5/30)

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Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

Can you believe Memorial Day weekend is almost here?!?!  That means summer is right around the corner!  Be sure to make the most of these last few days in May!

On Wednesday, make your way to the Fraze Pavilion (I LOVE the Fraze!) for the Kettering Block Party.  If you want to sort of meet a former president, then head over to the Dayton Woman’s Club for the Abraham Lincoln Social & Luncheon.  Beer lovers should plan to be at Archer’s as they’ll feature a new craft beer.  Not only will you be able to think green, but you will also be able to “drink green” as part of Green Drinks May at Norton’s in Kettering.  And if you love listening to adorable kids singing their hearts out, be sure to attend the Kettering Children’s Choir 25th Anniversary Concert at the Schuster Center.

On Thursday, check out 42nd Street at WSU’s Festival Playhouse.  On the other side of town, you will be able to see the premiere of the documentary The Other Side at The Neon.  And if you want to be close to somebody, come to Right Next to Me at The Loft Theatre.  The only problem is, you really don’t know who “me” is.  If you are in the Oregon District, walk over to Dayton Theology on Tap at Oregon Express.  For all you old-fashioned book readers, check out a new option, The Nook, at Books & Co. at The Greene as part of their Nook Nights.  “Hungary?”  Make your way to Boston’s Bistro for their Hungarian Wine Tasting, which includes pizza, cheese, and chocolate!  And finally, over at the Metropolitan Arts Center, check out A Wine and Yoga Practice…which I of course think is an awesome idea!

On Friday, celebrate the weekend with Fiesta Friday at Bar Louie.  Or check out Trumpet Studio.  You may be asking, “What may ‘trump’ that?”  I’m not sure, but if you are looking to experience theater, there are several opportunities available, including  42nd Street at WSU’s Festival Playhouse, Right Next to Me at The Loft Theatre, and Mauritius at the Dayton Theatre Guild.  Then, go to bed early so you can enjoy the rest of Memorial Day weekend!

On Saturday, make your way to Dorothy Lane Market for Lobstermania.  If you’re downtown, be sure to participate in the Bike United Tour at Fifth Third Field and support the Dayton Dutch Lions’ campaign for healthy living with a fun downtown bike ride.  Plus, you will receive a ticket to the Dutch Lions’ first ever game at Fifth Third Field, and a Bike United T-shirt.  Celebrate Memorial Day Weekend by attending The Patriot Freedom Festival.  If you’re like me and love summer concerts, be sure to listen to the sounds of The Highway Junkies at RiverScape as part of the Free Summer Concert Series.  And finally, theater options for Saturday include Mauritius at Dayton Theatre Guild, 42nd Street at WSU’s Festival Playhouse, and Right Next to Me at The Loft Theatre.

On Sunday, make plans to attend the 2011 Dayton Heritage Festival at Carillon Historical Park.  It is FREE!  You will be able to enjoy exhibit buildings, special activities, and live music.  You can make it an all-day affair, as there will also be food and drinks from a variety of local vendors.  Plus, there will be fireworks following the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra’s performance featuring Live Americana music!  If there isn’t something there that suits your fancy, then too bad!  Just kidding (although that’s all I’m talking about for Sunday)!   Also, if you want to give back and volunteer there, please shoot me an email!

My Team Last Year at the "Spike Out Blood Cancer" Sand Volleyball Tournament!

Usually I don’t talk about Mondays in Jane’s Best Bets, but this week I’m making an exception with it being Memorial Day.  If you’re not having a cookout, then there are a couple options.  Start the day off early by attending the ‘Spike Out Blood Cancer’ Memorial Day Sand Volleyball Tournament at J.D. Legends.  I played in it last year and had a blast!  Even if you don’t like volleyball or can’t attend, I encourage you to support Steve VanGorder’s Fight for a Cure, which supports the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.  There are many ways to help, including making a donation, attending the Beatles Tribute Concert by Ticket to Ride, or purchasing a raffle ticket to win a brand new Camaro!  And if you don’t feel like sweating all day long or listening to Beatles music, consider staying inside for trivia!  There will be live trivia at the Pour Haus as well as trivia at Beef O’Brady’s.

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

At first the man didn’t like his haircut, but then it started to grow on him.

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

Have a great week Dayton!