The Featured Articles
‘Oklahoma!’ Review – Dayton Playhouse – Smokehouse Showdown
Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Oklahoma!,” the landmark 1943 musical concerning love and statehood circa 1906 in Oklahoma territory based on Lynn Riggs’ 1930 play “Green Grow the Lilacs,” thrives on its engaging romance between a stubborn farm girl and her folksy suitor. Even so, there is another relationship, a truly alluring collaboration, key to the appeal of the Dayton Playhouse’s entertaining if off-kilter presentation.
David Hallowren (left) and Jeff Sams in the Dayton Playhouse production of “Oklahoma!” (Photo by Art Fabian)
Late in Act 1, an absolute highpoint, cowboy Curly McClain (an immensely charismatic Jeff Sams) arrives at the pornography-adorned smokehouse of surly ranch hand Jud Fry (an impressive David Hallowren). Both men vow to win the heart of Laurey Williams (Amanda Carter), but Curly particularly knows deep within that Laurey only pines for and intends to be with him. Still, Jud has the upper hand for the time being since Laurey promised to go with him to a box social despite Curly’s bewildered disdain. Under director Brian Sharp’s delicate guidance, the fascinating tug-of-war transpiring here over casual conversation and a few shots of gunfire wonderfully conveys the determination and jealousy fueling Curly and Jud’s inherent friction. In fact, Sams, carefree yet astute, hits all the right marks in an appropriately impromptu fashion while building the morbid gem “Pore Jud is Daid,” a humorously somber portrait of Jud’s demise. Having winningly interpreted Curly’s knack for fantasy in “The Surrey With the Fringe on Top,” Sams conjures another imaginary premise with colorful nuances freshly heightening the tune, particularly as Hallowren ensures the clueless Jud falls for the silly scenario perhaps due to nothing more than momentary masculine companionship. When Curly leaves the smokehouse, after intimidating Jud to the core with his confident swagger, Jud’s pain as an unloved, detached outcast is powerfully examined by Hallowren in his dynamic rendition of the haunting, underrated “Lonely Room” filled with ample heartache, vengeance and frightening decisiveness.
Sams and Hallowren are a significant pairing primarily because of Carter’s vocal limitations hindering the cohesion she tries very hard to maintain opposite the more vocally firm Sams. Carter is an endearing presence and gives credence to Laurey’s hopeful yearnings, but the score is simply beyond her range, particularly “Many a New Day” and “People Will Say We’re in Love.” As ruthless peddler Ali Hakim, Christopher Delanis (an amusing Hero in the University of Dayton’s recent “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum”) is equally uneven, providing an overly meek, tentative and exasperated portrayal absent of salesman-like savvy and go-getting vigor. Even “It’s a Scandal! It’s an Outrage!,” Ali’s signature tune, falls flat despite cheery backup from the male ensemble.
Nonetheless, this production has its share of strong principals and featured performers. As Aunt Eller, the outstanding Karen Righter provides a wonderfully earthy sparkle, specifically bringing substantive radiance to Eller’s words of wisdom directed to Laurey late in Act 2. Kelli Locker is chock-full of fiery abandon as the hopelessly flirtatious Ado Annie Carnes. Matthew Glenn is a delightfully dimwitted Will Parker. Shawn Hooks is effectively authoritative and sly as Andrew Carnes. Ben Douglas (Ike Skidmore) and Zack Conway (Slim) pleasantly partner as Will’s friends. The absolutely luminous Tiffany Cichanowicz captivates as Dream Laurey in the favorably abridged Dream Ballet, beautifully choreographed by Barbara Pontecorvo.
Notable choreography is also offered by Paige Hanshaw, especially in the rousing “The Farmer and the Cowman.” In-demand scenic designer Chris Newman returns to the Playhouse to create a striking set depicting an authentic homestead essence. Kathleen Carroll supplies fine period costumes. John Falkenbach’s lighting design aptly captures varying moods. Musical director Ron Kindell leads another terrific orchestra.
“Oklahoma!” continues through May 18 at the Dayton Playhouse, 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave., Dayton. Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Act One: 90 minutes; Act Two: 50 minutes. Tickets are $17 for adults and $15 for seniors and students. For tickets or more information, call (937) 424-8477 or visit online at www.daytonplayhouse.com.
In addition, the Friday, May 16 performance will be “Western Wear Night.” Patrons are encouraged to dress in their favorite farmer or cowboy/cowgirl attire. In addition, two special picnic hampers, containing gift certificates for fried chicken and other picnic delicacies from Benjamin’s Restaurant and sweet treats and coffee from Winans Fine Chocolates and Coffees, will be raffled, as a fundraiser, during all performances and awarded after the closing performance Sunday, May 18. Raffle tickets will be $1 or six for $5.
In related news, the Dayton Playhouse’s 2014 FutureFest of new plays will be held Friday, July 25-Sunday, July 27 at the Playhouse. From a total of 151 submissions across the country, the six finalists are: “Masterwork” and “The Paymaster” by Dayton native M.J. Feely (a previous winner and third playwright to have two plays in final six), “Sugarhill” by Linda Ramsay-Detherage, “The Humanist” by Kuros Charney (previous semi-finalist), “The Killing Jar” by Jennifer Lynne Roberts, and “Wash, Dry, Fold” by Nedra Pezold Roberts (previous semi-finalist). Auditions will be held Sunday, June 1 at 2 p.m. (all plays), Monday, June 2 at 7 p.m. (fully staged plays) and Tuesday, June 3 at 7 p.m. (staged readings). Anyone interested in directing or serving as a member of the production staff should e-mail FutureFest program director Fran Pesch by May 15 at [email protected]. FutureFest weekend passes will go on sale Wednesday, June 11. Single tickets will go on sale Tuesday, July 1. For more information, visit www.daytonplayhouse.com
2014 Sideshow: Everything’s ‘Nine’ Over At Local Spring Festival
(Photo Courtesy: Jennifer Clarke)
For those who scroll the social media website Facebook, and some of the photos that are included in my articles, you will spot Jennifer Clarke’s impressive work. Clarke has been doing photography of artists that play throughout the city. She was been building her impressive portfolio for the past few years now, capturing fleeting moments during an artist or band’s live performances. When you are looking at the work that Clarke presents, you see moments that are pure.
Unfiltered.
Raw.
Authentic.
You are witnessing a story that is unfolding before you very eyes. By looking at the photo that she seizes, you become a bystander. You see the whole landscape of that period of time. You feel the rhythm of the music without actually being there. You get the sense of jealously when you don’t witness that exact second of when that picture was taken. To many, it is a privilege and an honor to be snapped by Clarke.
Six months ago local photographer Jennifer Taylor Clarke was assigned the role of co-director of the yearly event known as Dayton Sideshow, alongside with musician Todd theFox. It will be the ninth installment this year for the Sideshow, a festival that has been increasing in popularity. Each chapter of the Sideshow that is assembled offers a new vision. A new theme each time. This year’s event centers around the nine muses of Greek mythology-Calliope (muse of epic poetry), Clio (the muse of history), Erato (muse of love poetry), Euterpe (muse of music), Melpomene (muse of tragedy), Polyhymnia (muse of sacred poetry), Terpsichore (muse of dance), Thalia (muse of comedy), Urania (muse of astronomy). “I thought that it was a fitting theme to this year, with the ninth installment, and the whole mythology”, Clarke explains.
The Sideshow began with a simple idea from Laurana Wong. Wong had a vision to organize an evening that brought people together to celebrate the local art being made and the artists that created it. The show would be free for the participants to submit their work, as well as the organizers that would set it up, and for the guests that appeared. Wong believed that by having this show take place, it would bring attention to the emerging arts scene in Dayton and give everyone a chance to connect with one another to their similar interests.
The first ever Sideshow event took place on June 24th, 2006 at what is now the Cannery. Sixty artists from all around the area had work that was showcased throughout the evening. In years following, events would be held at other venues, primarily to give other buildings and areas around town a chance to showcase themselves. Previous sites have included The Merc on Third Street, the old Unicorn Bar location at the corner of Third Street and Jefferson Avenue, and the Armory at the corner of 6th and Patterson. For the past couple of years, the Sideshow has found a permanent home at the Old Yellow Cab building, which is located on East 4th Street. For more than 40 years, the Yellow Cab was home to a taxi business that now has become an emerging community art space. A variety of events are held throughout the year. For the Sideshow, having their annual celebration at the Yellow Cab is the perfect location. The walls are littered with over 60-plus artists that display their incredible works of art. Clarke mentioned that she encouraged all the participants this year to fully use the history of the nine muses and try to incorporate them into this year’s work.
(Photo courtesy: Jennifer Clarke)
For those who haven’t experienced and/or haven’t been able to attend a Sideshow, you truly are missing out. The impressive array of artwork that is presented from the artists goes beyond anything that is imaginable. From sculptures to photography (including Clarke’s), the artwork that is shown is made from the people who don’t view making art inside the lines. They are visually stunning. Attendees are able to be part of the art through some of the presentations.
For music lovers, two stages are placed next to each other outside in the parking lot, located under a tent. There, you are able to take in local music. From a wide range of different music styles, everyone will be able to witness the amazing selection of bands and artists. Todd theFox has selected a blend of bands that play anything from folk/country to rap to electronic. Playing the Sideshow on either Friday or Saturday is a humbling and tremendous break for these music singers and bands. “We have seen a bump from bands that see success. We wanted some previous bands to perform this year, and weren’t able to.” This year will feature another stage inside the beginning that will feature sets from singer/songwriters in a more intimate setting. Also on the other stage, comedians will be slotted to do sets. The third stage was presented last year as an ‘open mic’ area. The stage was a huge hit, with crowds growing around the stage when folks performed. More than 40 bands and artists will play on the stages over the two days.
Another idea that was conceived and was put into place at last year’s event will be coming back this year. Kids Sideshow gave children the tools and supplies to be able to make some of their own artwork and are able to display it at the show also.
For Clarke, opportunities like co-organizing the Sideshow this year only has added to some amazing events that have come to her over the past year or two. On top of her work of snapping those amazing live shots of shows across the city, she also does some weddings and other special events. One of the most interesting ventures that she is working on is her first documentary. The doc is centered on local musician’s Tim Gebard softball team. The team is not your typical beer league team. The team is comprised of older gentlemen. The film will give viewers a look of men who are simply enjoying their twilight years through the game, along with the sense of brotherhood. Working on the project has given Clarke a beautiful look at this group of men, and the ability to hear some amazing stories. “These men are stronger and more vibrant than most at their same age”, Clarke says. “They don’t want to just sit around and become lethargic.” The documentary will be released sometime within the year or next. Clarke also recently directed one of the Sideshow’s music acts Dirty/Clean’s video “Delicate Nerves”. You can view the video here.
It’s a lot on the plate for Clarke, but she wouldn’t have it any other way. She’s just taking it all in-one snapshot at a time.
The ninth Dayton Sideshow will be taking place at the Yellow Cab Building on East 4th Street on May 9th and 10th. Admission is free. Donations are accepted. For more info on Sideshow and this year’s event, click here.
A Toxic Food Adventure
Usually “Toxic” means something bad. Not in this case, Daytonians. We know a place where Toxic means ‘heavenly.’
Are you a beer lover? Then loosen your tie, let your hair down, and walk down the cobblestone streets of the Oregon District to the Toxic Brew Company.
For the past few months, The Food Adventure Crew has been visiting Toxic Brew Company and getting a feel for the range, style and taste of their beers. We tried the spectrum over time, from the lighter Abby Blonde to the Pawn Pepper Ale made with hot peppers.
We didn’t go there once and get a few taste test cups and write about them.. Taste tester flights??? Come on..
Grab yourself a pint so you get the full effect of the brewers intentions.
Now you will get the full scoop after months of tough research.. uh yeah :
HERE’S THE SKINNY:
Outside the Toxic Brew Company
— They brew their own beer, and they are serious about it. Friendly brewing fanatics unite! You can often hear high brow brewing conversations between staff, brewmasters and customers.
— Located at 431 E. Fifth Street, Hours of Operation are 3pm-12pm Tues-Sat and 1pm-11pm on Sundays
— There is no Food Menu, (unless you count popcorn), so don’t come hungry for a Food Adventure
— Open, inviting atmosphere. You can usually find the front door open and people milling around inside and outside. We also love the sawdust shuffleboard table which creates and occasional cheer.
— No wimpy beers. What we mean, is that each beer has a strong flavor, so be warned. Beer enthusiasts love strong beers or hoppy flavors. If your favorite beer is Mich Ultra, please realize that Toxic Brews may be an acquired taste.
— Super-friendly Staff. One of the most accommodating group of bartenders we have met. Visit, after visit, after visit, they are always attentive and helpful.
So which beers are the best?
Iso-Heaven, Beta Brown and Vanilla IPA
Drum roll please…. here are your Toxic Brewing company “Must Drinks.”
MUST DRINKS:
— ABBY’S CURE: A favorite toxic treat, it is simply a good beer. Light, spicy and a kick in the alcohol department, like most of their strong brews. Get a couple pints and feel the buzz. We believe Abby’s cure is just what the doctor ordered for your beer fix. This beer is actually a Belgian Tripel (strong ale) and has a special yeast strain that gives it a one of a kind flavor.
— ORANGE IMPERIAL STOUT: This flavorful, dark beer is in the style of and old Russian Stout (dark beer from roasted hops with a higher alcohol content). Toxic Brewing Company hits the mark on this one. We highly recommend it. A good beer for a brisk day, or a cool evening. Again we say, strong stuff! About 8% alcohol for you booze hounds.
— FIFTH STREET WHEAT: The Big Ragu’s pick of the Toxic litter. In our many stops, he found this one to be the most delicious. This Hefewiezen (German wheat beer) is sometimes offered with a lemon infusion during the summer. If you get a chance, try that on for size.
— ABBY BRUNETTE: The Big Ragu is a big fan of this beer. This is beer is smooth and has hints of caramel and nut flavors. Apparently, Abby is the Brewmaster’s wife. It’s times like these where we say “Ain’t love grand?”
— BETA BROWN: The original test batch recipe, with a strong addictive flavor. Goes down too easy, so watch yourself on this lovable middle of the road beer. You may find yourself slurring words and telling stories with TMI.
Some of the Friendly Staff at Toxic Brew Co !
Honorable Mention: Iso-Heaven and the Vanilla Pale Ale are worthy of recommendation. We will down a couple of pints of these bad boys, any day.
The problem with recommending our ‘must drinks’, is that the beer menu at Toxic Brewery is constantly evolving. Some of these beers may only be offered once a year. But that is a good thing, because the menu does not get tired or stagnant. The ideas and beer list improvements are as fresh as the brews.
So next time you’re drinking responsibly in the Oregon District, or drinking irresponsibly with a designated driver, make sure you enter the open doors of the Toxic Brew Company and “pick your poison.” Just do us a favor and don’t get those dinky sipper flights… Make it a pint, Food Adventure style!
Do us another favor, join the masses on Facebook who “like” our Food Adventure page HERE.
Check out photos below and comment to let us know your favorite Toxic Brews!!!
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Stivers Showcase of Student Films
On Tuesday, the 20th of May, at 7:30 pm, at The Neon Movie Theater on 5th Street,
Stivers School for the Arts, Film/Video and Animation Studio
will Present THE SHOWCASE
This eclectic compilation of short films includes absurdly comedic work, as well as hard hitting documentaries.
Some of these films have already won national and regional awards. Following the show, there will be a Q & A with the student filmmakers.
Tickets will be $5.00 during the pre-sale and $7.00 at the door. Tickets are available at the Neon box office and at Stivers in room 1206, the Film/Video and Animation Studio.
The Showcase has been going on for over 7 years and is the culmination of students work for the 2013-2014 calendar year.
These students are in either the Film/Video or Animation class. They range from 7th graders to graduating seniors. Most of these students are visual artists taking this class as an elective.
All proceeds go towards updating and replacing equipment in the video and animation studio. We have a huge turnover of students and have to deal with broken equipment.
Additionally with the constant changes in the industry we also have equipment that just requires updating. Donations of equipment or money are always accepted.
Alvoro Leite and Alex Mangen are the studio directors. Both are graduates of the Wright State University Motion Pictures Production Program and have over 20 years of teaching and actual production experience between them.
Miami Valley Bikeways Guide and Map Now Available
The Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission (MVRPC) is pleased to announce the release of the Miami Valley Ohio Bikeways Guide Map – 2014 Edition. This fourth edition of this very popular map will be available from parks agencies, some local governments, and various local bike shops. Download the 2014 Miami Valley Bikeways Map as a PDF document. You can order a 2014 Miami Valley Bikeways Map online. MVRPC will ship a paper copy of the map directly to you. Larger quantity requests are handled on a case-by-case basis, and filled only if quantities are available. To request more than one map, contact Kjirsten Frank, 937.223.6323.
“The 2014 map provides the most up-to-date information on the Miami Valley Trails, the nation’s largest network of paved, off-street trails. Over 95,000 copies of the map were printed this time. That’s the largest print run of the four editions,” stated Brian O. Martin, MVRPC’s Executive Director. “It’s a testament to its popularity. Our local partners, who distribute and help pay for the map, wanted more copies printed.”
New trails in this edition include the Dayton-Kettering Connector (Trail #19) and the extension of the Simon Kenton Trail (Trail #3) from Urbana to Bellefontaine. As compared to the 2011 edition, the Great Miami Trail (Trail #25) in Miami County is now shown as a continuous route from Tipp City to Piqua. The map also details the detour routes in Downtown Dayton due to the years’ long project to reconstruct and modernize I-75. Buckeye Trail and North Country Scenic Trail routes are now shown and our popular mileage matrix includes more cities and towns to help trip or training planning.
The 2014 map has an exciting new feature. The new map highlights thirty-one (31) attractions found along the trails to give residents and visitors alike a better sense of what can be found along these beautiful greenways. Trail users will notice museums, parks, historic sites, outdoor sports venues, as well as eight (8) National Aviation Heritage sites right along the trails.
“We are extremely grateful to our sponsors for helping offset the cost to print these maps. These sponsorships provide critical funding enabling the park districts, bike shops and local governments to provide the maps FREE-OF-CHARGE,” explained Martin. Sponsors include “Presenting Sponsor” Cox Media Group (Ohio) and returning “Bronze Level Sponsor” Children’s Medical Center. New sponsors for the 2014 edition include: “Gold Level Sponsor” Dayton Power & Light and “Bronze Level Sponsors” Bike Miami Valley, the Dayton Cycling Club, Great Miami Outfitters, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, and Safe Kids Greater Dayton.
Mother’s Day Dining Round Up
Mom deserve nothing but the best on her special day…
If your plans include a visit to her favorite restaurant but you haven’t already booked reservations for dinner, brunch or some other special meal, we highly suggest you mzke that call for reservations now! Mother’s Day is the most popular day of the year to eat in a restaurant, according to the National Restaurant Association. 55% of Mother’s Day dinners will go out for dinner, 34% will do lunch, 30% will do brunch and 12% will dine out for breakfast. And yes, that adds up to more than 100%, because about 25% of US residents will dine out for more than one meal on Mother’s Day.
Because Mother’s Day is such a popular occasion, chances are good that your favorite restaurant will be offering some sort of special menu for the holiday. We’ve done our best to highlight some of the special menu’s being offered about town, but we’re sure there are even more. If we’ve forgotten your favorite eatery, feel free to add it in the comments below.
Amber Rose 228-2511
Buffet Brunch 10:30am -2 pm
$24 adults, $10 kids under 12
Carvers Steaks and Chops 433-7099
Plated Brunch 11am – 3pm
$18 – $27
C’est Tout 298-0022
3 course meal noon – 6pm
Adults $32.50, kids 6-12 $16.25, 5 and under free
Chappy’s Tap Room & Grill 299-7427
11am – 8pm
entree, choice of two sides and Chappys Chocolate Texas Sheet Cake for dessert
$12.99
Coco’s Bistro 228-2626
Plated Brunch 10am – 2pm
$20
El Meson 859-8229
Latin American Buffet Brunch 11am – 2pm
Special kids buffet burrito bar
$28, children 12 and under $12, 6 and under free
Giovani’s 878-1611
Buffet 11am – 6pm
$18.95
Golden Jersey Inn 325-0629
Buffet 8am -11am breakfast, 11am -2pm brunch, 2-8pm dinner
$20.95 including beverage and dessert, age 4-10 $8.95, under 3 free
Hawthorn Grill 298-2222
Family-style, all-you-can-eat
$22 per person. $13 kids ages 2-12. FREE – kids under 2
Hilton Garden Inn 458-2650
Brunch 10:30am to 2pm
Adults $27.95++ Children 5-12 $12.95++
Musica will perform at the DAI at 3pm
Leo Bistro 223-4ART (4278)
The Art of Brunch Buffet Seatings are available at 11:30am, 1:30 pm & 3:30 pm
$30 per person members, $35 per person non-members, $20 children 10 & under
Add the Musica concert for $8 per adult brunch (children free)
The Melting Pot 567-8888
3 course Meal Deal noon- 1opm
$38.95
Neil’s HeritageHouse 298-8611
Buffet Brunch with 2 seatings 11:30am or 2:30pm
Adults $27.95, Children 4-10 $14.95
Salar 203-3999
Plated Brunch 11am – 3pm
$7-$19
Dayton Rotary Joins MetroParks For Mad River Run Ribbon Cutting
The Dayton Rotary Club joined FiveRivers MetroParks , local elected officials from Dayton, Riverside and Montgomery County as well as members of the local press today for the grand opening and ribbon cutting for the Mad River Run at Eastwood MetroPark today.
Part conservation, part recreation, the Mad River Run includes a kayak and canoe whitewater feature in the Mad River, river access points, and an area for observing paddlers or just enjoying the river. Construction was funded in part by the Siebenthaler Centennial Project of the Rotary Club of Dayton, which ended up being a $100,000 donation.
“The Rotary Club of Dayton is excited to support this new destination for free, active outdoor recreation and place where everyone can connect with the Mad River,” said Greg Birkemeyer, president of the Rotary Club of Dayton. “Enhancing our river assets is critical to making the Miami Valley an even better place to live, work and play.
Rotarian David P. Williams so eloquently shared these words with the group before the actual ribbon cutting:
This is a story about going back to the future. It is a story about a community of people, and the rivers that continue to define and identify them after almost 220 years.
“The River” sits as the centerpiece of our community, even since its very founding. On April 1, 1796, when George Washington was President and Ohio was not yet a state, a group of 12 settlers known as “The Thompson Party” traveled by flat bottom boat up the Great Miami River from Cincinnati and landed at what is now the end of St. Clair Street.
Ohio became a state in 1803 and the City of Dayton was incorporated in 1805. In 1827, construction began on the Miami and Erie Canal, which would contribute significantly to Dayton’s economic growth during the 1800s. Riverscape sits astride the point where the canal and the river met.
As our community celebrated its first 100 years, railroads and a better highway system were proving to be a more efficient way of moving goods and the canal and the idea of a navigable waterway went into decline.
But nothing had ever been done about controlling the flood waters of the three major rivers and two large creeks that emptied into the basin where the City of Dayton sat.
Not until the catastrophic flood of 1913. When it was over, there were over 600 estimated dead with estimated property losses were over $200,000,000, in 1913 dollars.
The relief effort was staggering. Among those coming to the aid of their fellow citizens was a then small group of business men and community leaders in their very first year of existence, the Rotary Club of Dayton.
First, however, Rotary members had their own personal challenges to face. Family members in different parts of the City were cut off and unable to communicate with one another, including the Rotary Club’s first President, Scott Pierce, who had been informed that his only daughter, Charlotte, had drowned. It was several days until Pierce learned that Charlotte had survived the flood in the attic of fellow Rotarian R.L. Miller. In her later years Charlotte would retell the story of her ordeal, and the promises made in the attic, to her niece, Barbara Pierce Bush, First Lady of the United States, who regularly visited her aunt here in Dayton until Charlotte’s death in 1971.
Other Rotarian heroes during the flood included Doctor HH Herman, chief physician at the National Cash Register Company who organized and oversaw a team of 42 doctors and 74 nurses who cared for 1,700 people. Major Robert Hubler assumed military command of the City, feeding almost 21,000 people daily. And, of course, future Rotarian John Patterson took the lead in organizing the City’s relief efforts from his NCR headquarters.
Rotary International was itself but an 8 year old fledgling at the time of the flood, and the Dayton club was only number #47 on a list that has since grown to over 32,000 clubs worldwide. But the Great Dayton Flood marked the first official international act of humanitarian relief by the larger Rotary organization. By raising $5,000,000 in 1913 dollars, Rotary had found its humanitarian mission. That September, on behalf of a grateful Club and Community, Scott Pierce addressed the Rotary Convention in Buffalo and thanked those attending for their efforts in helping Dayton.
The flood gave way to flood control and the genius of Arthur Morgan, whose “hydraulic jump” helped pioneer modern day hydraulic engineering. Morgan was a frequent guest speaker at the Rotary Club, and employees of the Miami Conservancy District, including our own Bob Reemelin, have long been Club members.
In 1973, the Club pledged $27,000 to the River Corridor Committee of the Dayton Chamber of Commerce toward construction of the “Riverwalk” project. Committee Chair Horace “Huff” Huffman Jr. congratulated the Club on being the first service club to step forward to make the project a reality.
Rotarians were actively involved in the 1970s and 80s with management of water recreation along the River Corridor in the form of power boat racing, when Eastwood Lake became known as the “Hydrobowl”.
In 1983, the Club donated again to the River Walk project, this time to complete the one mile extension.
In the 2000’s, Dayton Rotary staged its Fit Fest festival at Riverscape for a number of years.
And now, we return to the River again, with today’s dedication of the “Legacy Launch”
So you see, like the settlers, the farmers, the industrialists, the aid and relief workers, the engineers, and the recreationists, we continue to come back to the River.
In the beautiful words of Carly Simon:
“We are coming to the edge
Running on the water
Coming through the fog
Your sons and daughters”
“Let the River Run
Let all the dreamers
Wake the nation
Come, the New Jerusalem”
Photo’s by FiveRiver MetroParks
Out Of This World Activities Await At Space Fest
You never know what you may come across in the galleries at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force! Out-of-this-world activities – and perhaps even some “extra-terrestrials” – await visitors to the museum during Space Fest on May 16-17 when the museum and more than 20 other participating organizations offer a multitude of space-related activities for visitors of all ages. All activities are free, unless otherwise noted.
The event begins Friday, May 16 with a special showing of the film Gravity (in 3D) at 7 p.m. at the Air Force Museum Theatre. Former Astronaut and retired Air Force Colonel Gregory H. Johnson will introduce the show and answer questions immediately following. The theatre will charge a reduced price of $4 per person, and tickets may be purchased at www.afmuseum.com/attractions/reservations.
During another unique experience on Friday, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base Force Support Fitness is hosting the 5K Fun Run: Glow in the Dark Edition on the runway behind the museum. A 1-mile kids’ race begins at 8 p.m., and then at 8:30 p.m. 5K participants can run or walk through a scale version of the solar system. The pre-registration entry fee is $25 and includes a t-shirt. Race day registration is $30, but a t-shirt is not guaranteed. Registration forms for both races are available athttps://endurancecui.active.com/event-reg/select-race?e=8136253.
Finally, a free star-gaze with telescopes will take place at 9:30 p.m. Friday near the museum’s Memorial Park. Miami Valley Astronomical Society members will set up telescopes and be available for questions and answers.
On Saturday, May 17, visitors will find a variety of free, interactive and fun space-themed activities for all ages, including special appearances by astronauts, a chance to see the museum’s new Space Shuttle Exhibit, space shuttle computer simulators, model rocket building and launching, a 35-foot tall inflatable space shuttle model, indoor planetarium, solar viewing, “Picture Yourself in Space” photo booth, a space pop culture collection, 3D printer, and even special costumed characters.
Visitors can listen to presentations by current Astronaut and Army Colonel Douglas H. Wheelock, who spent nearly six months on the International Space Station in 2010, and former Astronaut Dr. Donald A. Thomas, a veteran of four space flights during the 1990s with more than 1,040 hours in space. The two will sign autographs at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Space Shuttle Exhibit. Then, Wheelock will speak at 1 p.m. and Thomas at 3 p.m. in the museum’s Carney Auditorium.
In addition, Dr. Doug Lantry, museum curator and Space Shuttle Exhibit project manager, will talk about space suits at 2 p.m. in the STEM Learning Node, located adjacent to the Space Shuttle Exhibit.
Popular space-themed music will echo through the museum galleries as two area groups perform space-related musical numbers to entertain visitors. The Troy Tones Show Choir will perform at 10 a.m. near the Space Shuttle Exhibit. At noon, the U.S. Air Force Band of Flight’s Wright Brass ensemble will play in the museum’s second building.
The first space trivia contest will be held at 10:30 a.m. in the STEM Learning Node. This contest will take place 
prior to the Dayton Challenger Learning Center’s presentation of one of “Christa’s Lost Lessons,” which are based on the lessons NASA Teacher in Space Christa McAuliffe was developing at the time of the Challenger disaster. Additional trivia contests will take place at 12:30 p.m. and at 2:30 p.m., before the astronaut presentations in Carney Auditorium. All three trivia contests are open to visitors of all ages, and prizes will be awarded.
Younger visitors will have fun on the inflatable Space Shuttle Slide and Space Camp Bounce House, which will be set-up in front of the museum (weather permitting). Children will also enjoy storytime, offered by the Greene County Public Library from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and face painting from noon-2 p.m.
The museum is partnering with more than 20 other organizations to provide activities throughout the day, including the Air Force Research Laboratory, AIAA Dayton-Cincinnati Section, Air Force Institute of Technology, Air Force Museum Foundation, Armstrong Air & Space Museum, Cincinnati Museum Center, Cincinnati Observatory, Columbus School of Model Rocketry, Dayton Challenger Learning Center, Engineers Club of Dayton, Girl Scouts of Western Ohio, Greene County Public Library, KinderCare, Mars Society – Ohio Chapter, Miami Valley Astronomical Society, NASA Glenn Research Center, National Aviation Hall of Fame, R2-D2 Club, SWFTEC, Team Ohio Rocketry Club and WPAFB Force Support Fitness.
In addition, the Air Force Museum Theatre will show Hidden Universe at noon and 2 p.m. Saturday as part of its normal schedule. Reduced rates of $6 will be offered for those showings of Hidden Universe. The interactive flight simulators and Morphis Movie Ride Simulator will be open from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. A reduced rate of $3 will be offered on the Morphis ride, and visitors can request the spacewalk ride.
The Valkyrie Café, Refueling Café and an outdoor grill will have food available for purchase, and the museum store will be selling event t-shirts in addition to their aviation- and space-related items.
More information about the event, including a complete schedule, is available on the museum’s website,www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/spacefest.asp.
The National Museum of the United States Air Force is located on Springfield Street, six miles northeast of downtown Dayton. It is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day). Admission and parking are free. For more information about the museum, visit www.nationalmuseum.af.mil.
This article by by Sarah Swan
National Museum of the U.S. Air Force
Moore Desserts Please Celebrates Second Anniversary
Brittany Moore, owner of Moore Dessert Please! invites you to celebrate the 2nd anniversary of her store, located at 1003 Shroyer Road in Oakwood, with a free cupcake for a year give away, buy 2 get 2 specials, t shirt giveways and a visit from Zombie Dogz! The celebration will run from 11am – 3pm this Sunday, May 4th. 
Moore’s business was launched on the heels of her 2 appearances on the cable tv bakers challenge show, CupCake Wars, where she and her mother competed twice on the Food Network show. Read about it here. From cupcakes to brownies, everything they make in our kitchen is single batch, fresh from scratch. Moore’s business is geared for sellouts “we bake everyday fresh from scratch, we do our best to keep up with demand, however, after our check point at 3pm, we allow our cupcakes to sell out.”
Moore Desserts Please supports many charity events, including a coats for cupcakes exchange, DMM’s own Sweet Treats Festival.
Mad River Run Grand Opening Monday
A grand opening event will be held for the Mad River Run at Eastwood MetroPark at 12:30 p.m. Monday, May 5. Enter at 1385 Harshman Road.
Part conservation, part recreation, the Mad River Run includes a kayak and canoe whitewater feature in the Mad River, river access points, and an area for observing paddlers or just enjoying the river. Construction was funded in part by a $100,000 donation from the Rotary Club of Dayton. Members will celebrate and commemorate the Mad River Run during the grand opening.
“The Rotary Club of Dayton is excited to support this new destination for free, active outdoor recreation and place where everyone can connect with the Mad River,” said Greg Birkemeyer, president of the Rotary Club of Dayton. “Enhancing our river assets is critical to making the Miami Valley an even better place to live, work and play.
“Recovery work after Dayton’s great flood of 1913 was the first relief project for Rotary International, so this was the perfect project for the Rotary Club of Dayton to support to commemorate our 100 years of service to the local community,” Birkemeyer added.
The Mad River Run also improved the aquatic habitat and safety characteristics of the river while providing a 4-mile paddling experience from Eastwood to RiverScape MetroParks.
“The Mad River Run is part of a renewed focus on rivers in our community, and this project accentuates a key river corridor that leads right into downtown,” MetroParks Executive Director Becky Benná said. “Improving outdoor recreation opportunities is a key component in attracting and retaining the workforce that will power our regional economy, as well as in strengthening Dayton’s vibrancy.
“We thank the Rotary Club of Dayton for its generous donation that has helped Five Rivers MetroParks’ fulfill its mission to protect the region’s natural heritage and provide outdoor experiences that inspire a personal connection with nature,” Benná added.
In addition to the new play areas for paddlers at Mad River Run, spectators can view the action from the riverbank. The river feature serves as a swiftwater rescue training classroom, and additional programs are planned for advanced paddling and maneuvering training in moving water.
“The features on the Mad River have helped meet the needs of the paddling community — not only for current paddlers and the new ones we gain daily, but for future generations,” said local paddling expert and enthusiast Lamar Jackson. “As a father of two, a paddler and instructor, I see the big picture of something like this and can assure you my children and I will be taking full advantage of what the current feature and planned features have to offer. The ease of access and location makes this a great place for instructional clinics for paddling or swift water rescue, and the location of the Mad River Run couldn’t be at a better spot for the public to see.”
In addition, those interested in fishing will benefit from deep water holes formed by the water flow around the River Run rock structures, where fish tend to concentrate to stay out of the river current.
“The Mad River Run is a great addition to the Miami Valley,” said Pete Ziehler of the National Association of Professional River Anglers. “It’s a place for anglers to seek fish pooled above and below the run. This also enables fly anglers to hone their skills with the calmness of the waters. This gem is really a keystone in the continued development of the waterways in the MetroParks system.”
10?’s with Chef Trish Miles of C’est Cheese
What’s Your Story?
I started cooking at a young age when my sisters and I would do “make -ups”….basically putting together different creations involving butter, sugar and other ingredients for an after school snack. One of my daily jobs included making the salad for dinner. This led to me to starting my own garden and betting my dad that I could live off of it for two weeks. I caved to ice cream and sweets!
Trish pictured here with her dad!
I attended the College of St. Benedict in MN, graduated in 1986, and moved to Dayton for a teaching position at Incarnation Elementary school. Soon afterward I met my husband and was married in 1989. In ’91, we had our first child and three more children followed. I decided to stay home, but at the same time some students at the University of Dayton were trying to start up a rowing team. Both my husband and I had rowed in college, and we agreed to coach. At that time I began to train heavily in my own boat where I developed a pretty competitive career in racing. In 2003, my husband and I began a high school girls rowing program called Dayton Boat Club where we both currently coach outside of our other jobs.
The coaching, my own competitive rowing, and the kids kept me busy, but with the kids growing up, our expenses increased. I needed to find a way to establish a more financially stable income.
The thought of finishing my masters at UD was an option, but the time commitment probably wouldn’t allow me to coach or have the freedom to visit family as much as I’d like to. I had always joked about having my own café, but, again, I knew that was probably even more time consuming. There were a couple food truck ideas in the making when I thought, nobody had done anything solely dedicated to grilled cheese! The menu options were endless and fun to create! When I started looking into the truck, logistics and the unique idea, it all came together and people were very excited about what I had to offer. It took off!
1. What is your favorite ingredient to cook with?
You’d think I’d say “cheese” is my favorite ingredient, but what I really like about making the sandwiches are the fresh vegetables and spices that go together. The Don Quixote is one of my favorites as it has the corn, black beans, jalapeño with two different cheeses and a chipotle mayo. Recently, too, I’ve discovered how cooking with lemon can really bring in a lot of flavor
2. What ingredient do you dread?
Opening a jar of sauerkraut. It smells terrible, but once it’s on the grill and added to the Reuben, it can be amazing!
3. What’s your favorite dish to make?
There are currently 9 different sandwiches on the menu and I tend to favor the vegetarian based ones. I do love the Don Quixote, but the “Oh My Gouda” has a whole different flavor with the onions, mushrooms, Gouda, mozzarella and a spicy mustard mayo.
As far as the ones that meat in them, I’d have to go with the Buffalo Blue: shredded buffalo chicken, mozzarella, cheddar, blue cheese with a splash of Franks
4. What’s your favorite pig out food?
Harvest, sweet potato fries. Delicious!
5. What restaurant, other than your own do you like to dine at in the Miami Valley?
Dewey’s Pizza, every Thursday night – date night. I have to give Dewey’s pizza some credit. A lot of my combinations have stemmed from the way I see and taste how certain ingredients go well together. Love their pizza!
6. What’s your best advice for home chefs?
Try a recipe, but don’t be afraid to make it your own. Start with what you know works, pay attention to what you like when you’re out in a restaurant, and try to bring those ideas home.
7. If you could invite any 4 guests to a dinner party who would they be and why?
Bridget, Matthew, Patrick and Madeline Miles. I love to have my kids all home for dinner.
8. Who do you look up to in the industry and why?
Todd Jesdale, truly a genius in the field of coaching rowing, but also a bit eccentric in a comforting and enjoyable way. He is a previous US national boys’ team coach.
Patrick, from Harvest Mobile Cuisine. He has inspired, encouraged and looked out for me in my C’est Cheese endeavor. I’m addicted to his sweet potato fries, so much that I gave them up for lent!
Devin Oliver. Humble, kind, a true leader and he plays pretty good basketball. Love those Flyers!
9. What do you do in the Miami Valley on a day off?
I might substitute teach at Holy Angels, where my kids all attended grade school or if the weather is nice, I’ll get out in my boat for a row. Then there is the possibility I might go and visit my son in Columbus or my daughter in Chicago.
10. Share a kitchen disaster, lucky break or other interesting story.
I’ve had a few disasters… I think you have to if you’re going to learn anything!
When we were first married, my husband’s parents came to visit. I wanted to make this zucchini pasta. The zucchini burnt and stuck to the pan. The fire alarm in our house was blaring. I took the pan and whacked it against the outside of our house where it was in view of my in laws (I didn’t know they were there). I looked over to the patio where they were sitting, and said: “dinners ready”!
I guess I’ve come a long way since those days…. I’ve learned a lot by trial and error, but I think I’m on a good path and I love what I’ve been able to do! I’ve loved getting to meet a lot of people in the Dayton area. I love to meet other small business owners and share in the experience of working hard to be successful. Who knows, maybe someday I’ll have the time to open a café with French tablecloths, good music and a fun atmosphere!
Extras:
C’est Cheese Schedule:
Monday: Wilmer Hale on Research Blvd and Founders
Tuesday: Ghostlight Cofee on Wayne
Wednesday: 5 Rivers Metro Park office on monument
Friday: Wilmer Hale
Weekends vary according to events. Often I’ll be on the schedule for either Eudora, Yellow Springs, and Star City Brewery’s
The best way to find Trish is on twitter: @cest_cheese
She can be scheduled for graduation, block, birthday parties as well as wedding showers.
Contact info: 937-344-4771 cestcheese.info
This Chef 10?’s article was put together by UD students in Professor Rebecca P. Blust’s UD Engineering Project Management class. Our four member team , Gracelyn Key, Sushmitha Rayinadi, Emily Strobach and Daniel Williams spent the semester learning how to meet with a client (DMM) define the project, put a plan together and execute it. This is the first of 9 Chef interviews they presented to us as their class project.
Yoga For Cyclists
The Miami Valley is one of the best places for cycling in the Midwest, and Day Yoga Studio can help you enjoy more time in the saddle this year! Join Elizabeth Raffa (RYT-200) for a 4-week yoga series dedicated to cyclists.
The cyclist series will focus on yoga poses to enhance your performance during rides, while minimizing muscle soreness and recovery time afterwards. These poses build core strength and muscle, increase flexibility and help prevent injuries common to those of us who spend hours pedaling and hunched over the handlebars. The poses learned in this series will help you enjoy as much time on your bike as you possibly can this season!
This series is open level, and will benefit both the advanced practitioner and those brand new to yoga (or cycling!). Special focus will be placed on key trouble areas for cyclists – hips, hamstrings, low back, neck and shoulders.
Date: Monday, April 28 – Monday, May 19 Time: 7:30 – 8:30pm
Cost: $45
Location: Day Yoga Studio 1000 Brown Street
Registration is required. Please visit dayyogastudio.com or call 937- 829-5947 to register.
About the instructor: Elizabeth began a dedicated yoga practice in 2009. As her practice deepened, she was energized by renewed health and inspired by the body’s ability to heal naturally. She earned her RYT-200 in 2013. Her classes focus on personal strength and body/mind appreciation. Elizabeth is also certified by the Veteran’s Yoga Project in Mindful Resilience. This practice uses yoga, meditation and breathwork as a resource to help those facing post-traumatic stress and other trauma-related psychological difficulties navigate a personal path to inner stability and calm. Outside of the studio, Elizabeth manages accounts for a retail branding firm, is an active volunteer in a number of organizations and can often be found enjoying the Miami Valley bike trails.
Heroic High School Student takes on the Ohio State Legislature
Bailey Webber, a junior at Springboro High School, was looking for a project to develop her filmmaking skills when she came across an issue she just could not ignore. What started as a summer project developed into a two year endeavor to investigate Fat Letters, notification from a school that state whether a student falls within an acceptable range on the BMI scale.
Bailey met a sixth grader in her district who received one of these Fat Letters. Maddy has human growth hormone deficiency. The hormones she takes every day cause fluctuations in her weight. Maddie received one of these letters and was mortified. In her investigation, Bailey found out that in 2010, the State of Ohio, in response to the “childhood obesity epidemic,” passed a law requiring all schools to measure and report every student’s body mass index (BMI), even students as young as kindergarten. Letters that are sent home to parents reporting their child’s BMI became known as fat letters by the students.
The deeper she looked into the law, the more controversy Bailey found. She interviewed parents who thought the schools were being hard on students who already have difficulties, school board members who felt the State was overstepping its bounds and superintendents who refused to comply. Finally, she questioned legislators who sponsored or disagreed with the bill. Now, it’s time to put all that video footage together into a film.
Bailey is not alone in the project. She is being supported and coached by her father, award winning documentarian Michael Webber. Mike’s previous projects include The Elephant in the Living Room which won the Genesis Award, the London United Film Festival Award and the Burbank Film Festival Award for Best Documentary, among others.
This film has been submitted as a Kickstarter project to help with the production costs. Kickstarter is a crowd fundraising platform that helps creative projects get off the ground. Bailey’s summer project is now going to be a feature length film. The fundraising period is over on Monday, April 28th
at 3 am. To contribute or to learn more, go to Kickstarter.com. There you will find videos that will tell you a little more about the film. If Bailey and Mike are not able to raise all the funds, they get none so kick in a couple bucks.
If you’d like to follow the progress of the film, you can go to thestudentbodyfilm.com or like the Facebook page at The Student Body Film.
In Bailey’s words, “I have put my heart and soul into The Student Body and I desperately want to share this revealing journey with others. If this story and cause inspires you as much as it does me, then please consider joining me on the final leg of this journey. Thank you!”
This story was submitted by Bridget Oaks.
More Activated Spaces Coming To Downtown
Three new downtown businesses are preparing to host grand openings in conjunction with the May 9 Urban Nights event in downtown Dayton.
- Catapult Creative, 131 N. Ludlow St. (Talbott Tower): Catapult Creative provides marketing, advertising, branding, design, web development, video and online services. They have helped grow small- to medium-sized businesses and organizations through branding, expressive design and communication expertise. Though Catapult is a recent venture for the four founding partners, combined they have over 20 years of experience in branding, advertising and marketing.
- Confetti, 42 W. Fifth St. (Ludlow Place): Confetti is a modern stationery and card boutique. The shop will offer contemporary and vintage-style cards, stationery, upscale party supplies and decor, and small gifts. In addition to the retail component, Confetti will offer workshops for party-related topics, such as card marking, do-it-yourself décor, holiday wrapping, calligraphy and more. Customers also may host small parties and events in the space.
- Studio Meco, 46 W. Fifth St. (Ludlow Place): Studio Meco will feature art by Melody Cole Gates and a small, select group of local artists. The gallery will feature mostly African American figuratives, portraits, landscapes, florals, abstracts and typography in various media such as paintings, drawings, sculpture, jewelry and pottery. Studio Meco also plans to produce professional fine art prints, greeting cards, calendars, journals, coffee mugs, screen print T-shirts and tote bags for special occasions.
The new shops are part of the sixth phase of the Pop-Up Project, part of an initiative to fill downtown storefronts called Activated Spaces. This program builds success of the first five phases of the Pop-Up Project, launched in November 2011, to provide potential business owners the opportunity for shorter leases at below-market rates as a way for them to jump-start their businesses and contribute to the vibrancy of downtown Dayton. Since it was started, the project has launched 14 shops (11 of which are still open), filled 13,113 square feet of previously vacant space and created 30 jobs. Unique to this round of Pop-Up Shops is Catapult Creative, which is the first Pop-Up Office Space project. “The Pop-Up Shop program was so successful for the retail shops that we quickly ran out of move-in-ready, street-level spaces,” explained Pop-Up project leader, Elise Huelskamp. “Now we are including vacant, move-in-ready office space in downtown Dayton. We’re confident Activated Spaces can showcase the available amenities and potential for business owners to ‘do their thing downtown’ alongside hundreds of other businesses.”
Pop-Up Shops from the previous phases of the project include Beaute Box, 116 W. Fifth St.; Vintage Barber Shop, 110 W. Fifth St.; Peace on Fifth, 234 Dutoit St.; All Pilates, 27 S. Saint Clair St.; and two stores at 16 Brown St., Spice Paradise and Hicks’ Barber Shop & Shave Parlor. In addition, two shops have expanded to new locations at least twice the size of their original Pop-Up Shop locations: American π, 41 S. St. Clair St., and Sew Dayton, 261 Wayne Ave.
The Pop-Up Project is driven by volunteers from the young professional organizations Generation Dayton and UpDayton with support from the Downtown Dayton Partnership, the City of Dayton, the City of Dayton Neighborhood Mini-Grant program and community volunteers. Activated Spaces is part of the Greater Downtown Dayton Plan, a strategic blueprint for the future of downtown.
Visit www.activatedspaces.org or e-mail [email protected] for more information about Activated Spaces.
Dear Dr. Hip Hop
The Dayton Human Relations Council, Wright State University’s Bolinga Black Cultural Resources Center, the Community Initiative to Reduce Gun Violence (CIRGV), and the Community Police Council (CPC) are partnering to host the 2014 Dear Dr. Hip-Hop: Speak Be Heard Be Considered, a venue serving as the conduit for conversation and empowerment; using hip-hop as a tool to urge a more active community response in speaking out against gun violence, cultivating young adult community engagement, and encouraging leadership and responsibility in a creative hip-hop culture. The three-day event will take place April 24-26, 2014 in several locations throughout the Dayton community.
This collaborative initiative will feature a screening of a locally produced short documentary on gun violence, a youth empowerment lecture and lunch, a high school spoken word grand slam competition, a panel discussion featuring a national hip-hop artist and community activists, and a hip hop tribute.
As part of an ongoing strategy to improve community relations and citizen engagement in the Dayton area, the City of Dayton Human Relations Council held the first of many Speak. Be Heard. Be Considered events in Spring of 2011, a series of discussion forums designed to improve police/community relations and identify effective strategies to reduce crime and disorder. Feedback from this event and recent data indicates that young adults ages 18-35 are the most dissatisfied with community relations in the Dayton area. As a result,innovative follow-up events have been designed to engage this population.
