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An Adult Trick or Treat? Try Winans Chocolates

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Why should kids have all the fun on Halloween?

Why should kids have all the fun this Halloween season?  Adults around Dayton love chocolate and deserve to eat themselves into a sugar high as well.  FOOD ADVENTURES has been hitting Winans Fine Chocolates and Coffees for years, and think this is a perfect time to load up on some of their elegant chocolate specialties.  Go ahead, look at your diet for a day and go “BOO!!”

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Founded near Piqua, this business has been owned by the same family for four generations

— Specialties include chocolate and candy creations, coffees and even a decent wine selection.

— Relaxing, inviting atmosphere to have a glass of wine and some chocolates.  Some stores have decent  patio seating as well.

— These are fine chocolates, and with quality comes a price.  Don’t expect cheap deals, this is the good stuff.

— The candies are made locally with natural ingredients.   We love products made in the Miami Valley, and pure is good too!

— Three area locations:  6735 Miller Lane in North Dayton, 2806 Miamisburg-Centerville Rd(Dayton Mall) and 3510 Pentagon Rd. in Beavercreek.

Break open a Bourbon Cherry from Winans. You won’t be the same.

Winans Fine Chocolates and Coffees captures the elegance and decadence of chocolate in their stores.  The display cases and sitting areas allow for browsing in a rush, or a slow indulgence.  Speaking of indulgence, brace yourself for the “Must Eats” at Winans!

MUST EATS:

— BOURBON CHERRIES:  There is nothing quite like these chocolate covered cherries in Dayton.  Chef House, Big Ragu and Hungry Jax eat enough of these to get a hangover.

— MAINE BLUEBERRY COFFEE:  Yes, you read that right.  Food Adventures will tell you “Don’t knock it til you try it.”  He highly recommends this uniquely flavored coffee.

— WETZELS:  Winan’s chocolate covered pretzels are the perfect mixture of sweet and salty.  You simply cannot eat just one of these delicious treats.

— TRUFFLES:  Stick one on your tongue and let it melt.  The chocolate ganache in the middle is like finding the prize in a Cracker Jack box.   This is a Food Adventure in a bite.

Coffee lovers love Winans

— MINT JEWELS:  Rich, creamy and oh so dreamy.  White chocolate and the texture of the top from the nonpareils makes this a must eat.  More addicting than Candy Crush.

 

Slobbering yet?  Then turn the tables on the kids and have yourself a little Halloween Food Adventure at Winans fine Chocolates.  Just don’t wear a creepy costume and demand free candy, we wouldn’t want the Mall Police to get involved….

 

 Want more fun with the Dayton Originals, THE FOOD ADVENTURE CREW ?  Then click here and “like” them Facebook!!

Browse through the photo gallery below and tell us your favorite treats from Winans in the comment section.

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Homefull’s Adopt a Family Program

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116It’s almost the most wonderful time of the year! You can help families that recently experienced homelessness feel more “homefull” through the Adopt a Family program. You can make a difference by adopting families and providing them with much needed presents and household items.

Homefull is happy to offer this opportunity to alleviate the burden of the holiday season on families who recently experienced homelessness and are already stretched thin.  Homefull can connect your own family, business or organization with Homefull clients who could use some extra help to make this holiday season a little more hopeful.  They can supply you with the ages, sizes and preferences of families of many different sizes.

Wouldn’t it be nice to remind others going through a rough time how much our community cares about them, and give a gift that you know is much needed and much appreciated this year?

If you can help by “adopting” a family this season, please register through this link below by November 11th and help families feel more “homefull” this holiday!

The Promises of Homefull puts a face and a voice to the clients of Homefull in Dayton, Ohio.

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Healthy Living: Where Do I Start?

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If you’ve perused Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram lately, you’re probably no stranger to the healthy living fad that seems to be popping up all over the place. Lately, it seems like everyone is proudly posting their Nike+ runs to Facebook and sharing their healthy recipes on Instagram (complete with the appropriate filter to make average-looking food seem high class, of course). It’s honestly kind of fantastic. In a society where obesity is becoming the norm, it’s refreshing to see a new demographic changing the standard and raising the bar for how we treat our bodies. It’s amazing to see the transformations people are capable of, and we should absolutely be inspired by it. That being said, if you’re interested in losing weight or adopting a healthier lifestyle, all of this can seem like information overload. Where do I start? What do I eat? How should I workout? Fret not, friends. I’ve broken it down for you as best I can, into what I think are the best tips for starting the journey towards a new, healthier you (sorry, that’s super tacky – but it’s true).

Write down your goals. Are you interested in losing weight or dropping a pant size? You’ll quickly find out those two don’t always go hand in hand. Are you interested in building strength? Eating better? Feeling better? Ideally, if you want a healthy lifestyle to stick, the latter should be the first goal on your list. Whatever your goals may be, write them down. Do it. Now. Pull out the pen and paper. You’ll need them written down so that in three months, when you curse yourself for signing up for this, you can remind yourself of why you started.

Tackle food little by little. A total pantry makeover is a grand idea on paper, but isn’t realistic when starting something new. Start with little goals that are easier to accomplish instead of expecting your body to adjust to a complete change in diet. Are you a fast food fiend at lunchtime? Vow to pack your lunch every day this week. Replace your normal afternoon bag of chips with an apple. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and your healthy habits won’t be either.

Run, walk, dance, lift, bike and yoga. Ok, so maybe not all of those. But be willing to try more than one form of activity until you find one that you like. There are always going to be days you’d rather not go to the gym, but for the most part, you should get some kind of enjoyment out of the activity you’re doing. Running isn’t for everyone, and neither is yoga. It doesn’t matter how you get active, just get active.

Tell someone. The only thing harder than losing weight is doing it alone. “Going public” with your weight loss and health plans is often hard to do, but totally worth it. The support system you gain from friends and family, not to mention the accountability of people wanting to see you succeed, is limitless once you’re willing to open up about your goals. Vocalizing them is important, and you’ll probably find a new gym buddy in the process.

This is me, circa 2008 during my senior year of college, and the "after" me taken post-race of the USAF half marathon in September 2013. Crazy, right?

This is me, circa 2008 during my senior year of college, and the “after” me taken post-race at the USAF half marathon in September 2013. Crazy, right?

Be inspired. Over and over again. It is your job to motivate yourself. Don’t expect anyone else to hold your hand. Do what you need to do to feel inspired – Google before and after pictures, make a motivational board on Pinterest, post those goals you wrote down to the front of your refrigerator to keep you from snacking. Do it over and over again, as needed. Repeat.

Set yourself up for success. Be realistic. Be smart. Don’t try to wake up on your very first day and eat “clean,” run 5 miles, get a strength training session in and still find time to bake cookies for your kids and fold the laundry. It’s not going to happen. Unless you’re a super hero, in which case, we should chat. Set small, attainable goals you know you can reach. Once you build the habit, you’ll feel confident and in control – and that is the golden combination for building better habits upon better habits.

It’s not rocket science, but it is hard. I know, how should I know? Because I’m a professional weight-loser, of course. I struggle to find balance each and every day, but I’ve lost 70 pounds and I’m not stopping yet. Stick around, friends. Because I promise you to inundate you with the information, motivation and general kick-in-the-pants you need to succeed.

New Scenic Bikeway Connects Austin Interchange Area To Regional Bikeway Network

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Medlar_walkingAfter four months of construction, a new segment of the regional bikeway system has been added in south Montgomery County. Medlar Bikeway, opening Thursday, Oct. 31, was made possible thanks to a unique partnership between various local organizations. The bikeway makes a significant step toward a southern connection between the Great Miami River and the Little Miami River bikeways, the region’s two main arterial trails.

 

Participating partners of the project include Five Rivers MetroParks, Miami Township, Montgomery County Transportation Improvement District, The Ohio Department of Transportation, City of Miamisburg, Montgomery County and Miamisburg City Schools District.

 

Construction began in June at Five Rivers MetroParks’ Medlar Conservation Area. The completed bikeway links the Austin Road Interchange at I-75 to the Great Miami River Bikeway.

 

Riders can access the new trail from the Great Miami River Bikeway north of Crains Run Park south of Miamisburg, or from MetroParks’ Medlar Conservation Area at the southwest corner of Medlar Road and Miamisburg Springboro Pike. Medlar Bikeway will add to the Miami Valley’s regional bikeway network, the largest in the nation with over 330 miles of paved, off-road bike paths.

 

The public is invited to participate in a ribbon cutting ceremony after which Five Rivers MetroParks staff and local bike clubs will lead riders on the first ride on the two-mile  bikeway. The path leads riders through wetlands, ravines, and mature forest to a hilltop vista.

 

The ribbon cutting ceremony will be held Thursday, October 31, at 10 a.m. at the Medlar Conservation Area, 4558 Medlar Road (rain or shine). Attendees are asked to park at the Miamisburg Soccer Complex at 4350 Medlar Rd. Shuttles will bus attendees to and from the ceremony. Accommodations will be available for the handicapped. Those planning to attend are asked to RSVP to mar@dacc.org.

Learn more about the largest connected bikeway network in the country by visiting www.metroparks.org/cycling or calling (937) 275-PARK (7275).

Xenia To Host Restaurant Week

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FebNew2013_oval Xenia will have its first Restaurant Week November 3-9, 2013, with nine local eateries participating. The all-volunteer community organization Xenia Eats! created the event for Xenia, basing it on the popular trend of restaurant weeks in cities across the county.  Each participating eatery will offer a special menu selection for a “2013” price. No reservations or advanced purchase is required. The public is welcomed to just show up, order the specials, and support Xenia’s local dining scene. The menu of participating eateries can be found on its Facebook page.

Scott Calhoun, of Xenia Eats!, said restaurant weeks are fun ways to support local eateries and try something new. “Some places are offering great dinner combos for two people for $20.13, while others, such as bakeries, are offering one item for $2.13. There’s even a local winery involved. I’m thrilled that so many local eateries want to be a part of this.”

Building community spirit by eating out with friends is one goal of restaurant week, Calhoun said. Promoting growth is another. “Xenia’s dining scene may be small at the moment, but the eateries are proud of what they do and they have a loyal following. Supporting what we have is a great way to encourage others to open up a restaurant in Xenia. It can show them we care and will eat local.”

Participating Businesses:

Caesar Creek Vineyards  962 Long Rd. | (937) 479-4278 | Tues., Wed., Thurs. 2:00 – 6:00; Fri. and Sat. 2:00 – 7:00.

Offer: Cheese trays for $2.13 with a wine purchase. Any bottle of wine and a Caesar Creek Vineyard T-Shirt for $20.13. (During restaurant week, bottles and cases are for sale on Tues., Wed, and Thurs. On Fri. and Sat., bottles, cases, and wine tastings are for sale.)

The Dairy Station 704 N. Detroit St. | (937) 372-1100 | M-Sat.11:00–10:00. Sun.12:00–10:00

Offer: A single hand dipped ice cream cone for $2.13. (A double scoop for $3.13). A medium-sized soft serve cone for $2.13.

Harvest Moon Bakery 13 E. Main St. | (937) 372-3375 | T-F 7:00–4:00. Sat. 8:00–3:00. Offer: A bagel or twinky for $2.13.

Miami Trail Tavern 44 Xenia Town Square | 937-347-3247 | M-Sun. 11:00 a.m. – 2:30 a.m.

Offer: All craft beers for $2.13. Combo meal for two: appetizer, two sandwiches/burgers with sides, two desserts for $20.13.

Nick’s Restaurant  1443 N. Detroit St. | (937) 372-3202 | M-Sat. 11:00–2:30. Sun. 12:00–12:00

Offer: Two can eat for $20.13. Includes: one appetizer, two entrees, and cookies for dessert.

Rubio’s Tex-Mex Taqueria 131 Cincinnati Ave. | (937) 376-5750 | M-Thurs. 11:00–8:00. Fri. & Sat.11:00–9:00. Closed Sunday.

Offer: One beef or chicken taco for $2.13. One chimi dessert for $2.13. Dinner combo for $20.13: chips and salsa, two dinner entrees (excluding smoked brisket and pulled pork dinner), two soft drinks, one sopapillas dessert.

Sweets Boutique 28 E. 2nd St. | (937) 372-2224

Offer: Cupcakes for $2.13 from 3:00 – 5:30 from Nov. 5 – 8, and from 11:00 -2:00 on Nov. 9

Willie’s Sports Bar & Grille 124 Xenia Towne Square | (937) 372-0303 | M-Th 11:00–11:00. Fri.-Sat. 11:00–2:00. Sun. 12:00-12:00. Offer: Choice from a special menu of one appetizer, two sandwiches or two entrees, and a dessert for $20.13.

Xenia China Inn 417 W. 2nd St. | (937) 374-2220 | M-Sat. 11:00-9:30. Closed Sunday. Offer: Add two eggrolls to any lunch or dinner order for $2.13.

Xenia’s City Manager Jim Percival said, “We often hear complaints that there are ‘no places to eat’ in Xenia, from both citizens and employees.  The Xenia Eats! group is helping us be aware that there are good eateries in Xenia. We just need to be reminded about them and urge Xenia citizens (and others) to dine within our city limits!” If you haven’t tried a Xenia eatery lately, be sure to take advantage of the new Xenia Eats! sponsored restaurant week.

Xenia Eats! creator Scott Calhoun said,  “We were surprised to learn ourselves that there are about 20 local, independent eateries within Xenia’s borders. We decided to have a local Restaurant Week to promote staying in Xenia when you want to go out to eat.”

“We are delighted about the new 2013 Xenia Eats Restaurant Week,” said Ronda Houston, chairperson of The Business Enhancement Committee of Downtown Xenia Now.  “DXN’s Business Enhancement Committee has as one of its goals increasing dining establishments in Xenia, so residents have more choices than just fast-food chains and the franchises. Xenians like to eat out as much as everyone else in the region, but they usually take their dining dollars outside of Xenia because often they are unaware of the options in the city.”

Xenia Eats! created by Xenia resident Scott Calhoun, seeks to find and celebrate independently owned, Xenia eateries.  “We share Xenia Eats!’s philosophy,” Houston said, “because DXN knows if we grow the restaurants we already have, we will be able to not only have happier, more profitable restaurants in Xenia, we will attract other quality restaurants as a result of the success of the existing ones.”

To learn more about Xenia’s Restaurant Week go to the Xenia Eats! Facebook page.

 

‘The Spark’ Ignites Kevin Heider

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‘Patience is a virtue’

The quote above is more than just a phrase.  It’s something that most of us try to live by.  It is hard to patient.

Remember when you were a kid, and it was Christmas Eve?!  You placed a couple of chocolate chip cookies on a plate, along with a half-filled glass of milk on a table near the Christmas tree.  The sweet treat was for the jolly man who would shimmy down the chimney and drop off presents for you and your family.  Your mom and dad would tell you to head to bed, and you would just lay there-wondering when he would arrive.  Late in the evening, you would tip-toe down towards the tree just to see if Santa arrived earlier.

How about going for a job interview, and being told that you will be called within a couple of days.  This is the job that you have been waiting for since you can remember.  All the time you stayed in, studying your craft when you could have been out and about.  Putting in the extra work to make sure that when your name is called on, you were going to be ready to roll.  Now you have met with the one person that will make or break this dream.  Days feel like years.

It’s those moments in our lives that make having patience extremely difficult.  I will admit-I have struggles with being patient sometimes. When it comes to one of my favorite bands releasing new music, I can’t wait to get my hands on it.  It happens to all of us at one time or another.  You get excited.  You can’t wait to see what will happen.  However, we have to understand and come to grips with that whatever is supposed to happen will happen.  We have to remain calm and cool and the endgame will be worth it.

 This was the mindset that Kevin Heider had to have when he was courting his wife.  “It took me four years to have go on a date with me.    (Laughing) Four years!” Heider says to me during our sit down together recently at Ghostlight Coffee on Wayne Avenue.  “She didn’t think  that we could work, and she was coming off from a relationship.  I just had to wait.” Heider would make subtle comments along the way,  making playful remarks from time to time, mentioning that they are perfect for each other.  Heider was never pushy, though.  He knew that  patience was in order.  So after four years of waiting and wishing, the day finally came.  Heider finally got that date and the rest is now  history.

Kevin Heider is a hometown boy that is starting to get his feet back on the pavement here in town after recently living in the  Baltimore/Washington, D.C. area for a couple of years.  For the past few years, Heider has been traveling the United States, playing music full-time.  It was living in this area where he would meet the future Mrs. Heider.  As much as he enjoyed living in the area, the Dayton area just calling him back.  So Heider came home for the holidays.  The move back home quickly became a no-brainer for Heider and his new bride agreed.  “I always loved this city”, Heider says he slipped on his cup of coffee.  “It would take me over an hour just to meet up with friends who weren’t far away from me.  It was nice for a while, but I really wanted to get back home.  When we came to see my folks, my wife feel in love with the city also.”

Heider recently released his newest double album, The Spark back in March of this year.  His first album To Whom It May Concern was released in 2009.  The acoustic piano album provides a warm, heartfelt view of the world in his eyes.  The following year The Salzburg Revolution came out.  This album started to feature what is now Heider’s indie rock/folk sound.  In 2011, Ready, Set, Become… dove into the good and bad that is involved with families.

Recorded in Innovation Studios in Steubenville, Ohio, The Spark is the biggest album that Heider has done to date.  He dives into the human spirit, with the first half of the album diving into the dark side of a person who is dealing with some dark undertones.  ‘St. Brigit’s Fire’ is a fantastic Irish drinking song that should be added to all pubs around the United States.  One of the most powerful songs in the first half of the album is the bonus track ‘The Spark (A Reprise for the Folks in Newtown)’.  “I was in the studio when it all was unfolding”, Heider talked about when describing the unfortunate events that took place in Sandy Hook.  “I was like everyone else I am sure-completely horrified with what was unfolding.  So I went into the recording area and just starting playing.  I didn’t think much of it while I was recording it, but it turned out wonderful.”

The second half dives into the individual having a ‘spark’ fire up inside them, and finds the beauty and love in the world.  Some of the songs are actually pretty personable to Heider, for they are footprints from his life.  ‘Lonely In St. Louis’ starts with an acoustic guitar then builds to a crushing rush of guitars and organ play as Heider talks about not wanting to wait to see his love.  ‘Girl from Frederick’ explains his wife and his first date.  The French horn and mandolin add a beauty to the song that is written and ready to be placed in a romantic comedy.  Overall, the album is blistering with full-fledged folk rock to be sure to make everyone who enjoys national acts like The Lumineers and Phillip Phillips will for sure dive into The Spark with pure enjoyment.

Kevin Heider is about to embark the road again after getting married and settling in back home in Dayton.  Has I have learned from talking with Heider, and hearing about being on the road, meeting his wife and waiting for her to go on that first date-he’s not afraid of being patient.

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Dia de los Muertos Dayton!

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elegant skeletonAre you one of the 300+ people that made our first El Dia de los Muertos Dayton celebration a huge success last year? We’re doing it again on November 1st 2013!
Dia de los Muertos is a special day celebrated throughout Latin America, on which people remember loved ones who have died. The Dayton celebration will be in the Mexican tradition of celebrating with bright colors, imagery of calaveras (skulls) and more, but recognizes all Day of the Dead and All Saint’s Day traditions. This is a free and family-friendly event.

 

The centerpiece of this celebration is the month-long exhibit at Missing Peace Art Space, commemorating work that local artists have shared, in honor of their loved ones. The exhibit runs through December 1st at 234 Dutoit St. The gallery hosts many exhibits throughout the year, lifting up the human family and our yearning for peace!

 

Dia de los Muertos Dayton is the opening event for this exhibit, a community celebration of size, distinguished by a community parade through the Oregon District! This year, we are proud t be sponsored by Welcome Dayton, an Initiative of the City of Dayton’s Human Relations Council. Look for their float in the parade!

 

Our new event partner, Synergy Incubators, has jumped in big time, hosting the pre-parade party with Zombie Dogz, El Meson Mobile  and other food sunflower galtrucks, selling sustenance for your soul. Special beer tappings from Cavalier Distribuitn include Zombie Dust and Zombie Killer.   It is First Friday after all!

 

While you enjoy delicious food and brew, get your face painted for the parade! We might even have a few masks and t-shirts for sale! Plan on picking up one of Gracie’s cookies! They are works of art. And delicious!!!

The parade will line up on 5th St. in front of Synergy Incubators, stepping off promptly at 6pm! All are invited to join the parade!!! Lots of music, color, dancing skeletons, bicycles, motorcycles, floats and more!

 

The parade will end at the Missing Peace Art Space at 6:45pm where there will be more food for sale, performances in the street and the beautiful Community Ofrienda exhibit inside the gallery!

 

Huge thanks to all who donated online to make this event happen!!! What great community support!!! Special thanks to the Dia de los Muertos Committee for their hard work in planning this event!!! This event is proudly sponsored by: Welcome Dayton, Missing Peace Art Space, The Compassionary and Synergy Incubators.

 

Learn more:

 

bride-groomThe Day of the Dead is a Mexican tradition dating from Pre-Hispanic times. The Ancient Aztecs honor their Dead loved ones along with the goddess Mictecacihuatl. With the arrival of the Spaniards and Catholicism into Mexico, the ancient tradition became a syncretic form of celebrating All Saints Day.  Celebrating the Day of the Dead has transcended religion and has become a cultural tradition that honors the dualities of life and death, happiness and sorrow, day and night.

Indigenous Mexican homes are decorated with altars ornamented with flowers, photos of departed love ones, candles, and a variety of objects that our love ones enjoyed in life. The idea is to invite them to join us in a celebration of their life. The ancient Mexicans believed that for one day, the souls of our ancestors would come and visit and celebrate with us.

The Missing Peace Art Space will display a variety of altars with typical Mexican altars decorated by a multicultural array of Daytonians. Each altar will display items that tell a story about a love one and their special relationship with those who honors them.

In addition, the walls of the gallery will display artwork featuring artists Magda Bowen. Born in Chihuahua, Chihuahua, Mexico, artist Magda Bowen discovered a passion for painting  “Calaveras”.  “La Calavera Catrina” has become a staple of Mexican Day of the Dead celebration. Popularized by Mexican printmaker José Guadalupe Posada, the Catrina is the skeleton of an upper class woman. The Catrina or Calaca soon gained iconic status as a symbol of Mexican folk art. Inspired by José Guadalupe Posada, these paintings are festive skeleton characters with bright colored costumes representing a cheerful afterlife. They are properly dressed for a celebration. With their elaborate costumes, they joyfully parade with dignity leaving the physical world and embracing the afterlife. Death is not the end, but a new beginning.

 

For more information, contact:

Gabriela Pickett at Missing Peace Art Space, 369-1373

Jean Berry at The Compassionary, 369-8532!

 

 

Dayton Second City in Ohio Declared A “Trail Town”

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1391972_10151917813568921_1532127173_nFive Rivers MetroParks will celebrate with the City of Dayton, the Buckeye Trail Association and the North Country Trail Association the official designation of Dayton as “Trail Town”. The event will take place Friday, October 25, at 11:00am at Deeds Point MetroPark. The event is free and open to the public.

 

The North Country National Scenic Trail and the state-wide Buckeye Trail have partnered to improve access, strengthen interest in outdoor activities, and boost economic benefits by providing recognition to local businesses.  Together, they strive to build a community that values outdoor recreation for the health of the environment, the people, and the economy.

 

“We are so happy to have Dayton as the newest Trail Town along the North Country National Scenic Trail. Dayton is a great example of how an urban area can embrace a trail culture, providing a superb recreational resource for its citizens while benefiting it’s economy and the health of the environment,” said Andrea Ketchmark of North Country Trail Association. “This partnership will do great things for the Trail and for Dayton!”’

 

“Trail Towns” are built on a relationship between a municipality, the Trail, and its supportive volunteers.  For Dayton, the partnership will help to establish and nurture relationships that are mutually beneficial for trail users and the public-at-large within the City of Dayton and the surrounding area.

 

“We are ecstatic to be only the second city in Ohio to receive this designation,” said Dayton City Commissioner Nan Whaley. “This reinforces our ongoing efforts to make Dayton a vibrant community that realizes the importance of outdoor recreation.”

 

1380211_594837987230121_1676254459_nThe Buckeye and North Country National Scenic Trails are co-aligned through the Dayton area, following the Mad River and Great Miami Recreation Trails.  The trails are marked by 2×6 inch blue blazes along the route.

 

The North Country Trail is the longest of the 11 National Scenic Trails and stretches 4,600 miles from North Dakota to New York and follows much of the Buckeye Trail as it wraps through Ohio.  Crossing seven northern states, the trail is not only a national asset, but it is accessible from many communities making it a valuable local recreational resource.

 

The Buckeye Trail is a 1,400 mile trail circumnavigating the state travelling through 48 counties.  Volunteers of the Miami Rivers Chapter of the Buckeye Trail Association help maintain sections of these trails in the Dayton area, working closely with land managers from Five Rivers MetroParks and Miami Conservancy District.

 

“The Buckeye Trail Association is excited to partner with the community of Dayton, one of the largest and most supportive along Ohio’s State Trail,” shared Andrew Bashaw of the Buckeye Trail Association. “By working together we hope to promote this amenity to the quality of life around Dayton and encourage Dayton area residents to engage in using the Buckeye and North Country National Scenic Trail nearby and around Ohio!”

 

Working together to provide this premier off-road walking path is a partnership of trail volunteers, land managing agencies, the National Park Service, private foundations, civic organizations and businesses.

 

For more information about hiking trails throughout Montgomery County, visit MetroParks.org.

 

Downtown Dayton Will Come Alive (While Celebrating the Day of the Dead) During the Nov. 1 First Friday

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S

The Dia de los Muertos parade was such a hit last year, organizers are again hosting the event during this year’s Nov. 1 First Friday.

By the time Dayton’s next free First Friday event hits the streets of downtown, Halloween will be over — but lots of people will still be costuming up. That’s because the Nov. 1 First Friday, which will take place from 5 to 10 p.m., includes the second annual Dia de los Muertos Parade. The event is based on the Mexican holiday Day of the Dead, during which friends and family gather to celebrate loved ones who have passed.

The parade will begin at 6 p.m. on the corner of Jefferson and Fifth streets. The parade includes life-size puppets, dancers, music and more. The public is invited to dress up and join the parade, which will proceed east on Fifth Street. In addition, the monthly Courteous Mass Ride will meet at 5:30 p.m. at Don Crawford Plaza (220 N. Patterson Blvd.) and will join the parade. Synergy Kitchen Incubators will host a pre-parade food truck rally at 200 S. Jefferson St. before the parade, which will end at the Missing Peace Art Space (234 S. Dutoit St.) with a reception and artwork created by local students.

DVAC gift gallery 4

The Dayton Visual Arts Center will celebrate the opening of this year’s ARTtoBUY Holiday Gift Gallery during the Nov. 1 First Friday.

But that is not all: As always, First Friday will include art exhibits, special events, live music and more throughout downtown. The Nov. 1 First Friday also will be an excellent time to start holiday shopping: For example, the Dayton Visual Arts Center (118 N. Jefferson St.) will celebrate the opening of its annual ARTtoBUY Holiday Gift Gallery, a great place to find a unique gift for anyone on your list. DVAC is open until 8 p.m. Call 224-3822.

A complete list of activities taking place during the Nov. 1 First Friday is available online. Many restaurants, taverns and retailers offer special discounts, host live music and offer other special activities during the event. Other highlights include:

Sew Dayton (261 Wayne Ave.), in collaboration with Telephone Weekly, will host a live T-shirt screen printing of exclusive “Sew Dayton” shirts. Each shirt is $20 and includes a free T-shirt re-design sewing class. The free sewing class is only offered to the first 40 T-shirt purchasers.  Call 234-7398.

Clash Consignment (521 E. Fifth St.) will feature artwork by John Knabe with live music from Matt Freeman and Mike Guidone. Visitors can browse pre-owned and vintage clothes in a lively atmosphere. Call 241-9434.

Grass Roots Enrichment and Wellness Center (400 E. Fifth St., Suite C) will host a “khafla” — a small gathering centered on food and belly dance. Works by artist-of-the-month Ron Rollins will be on view to enjoy.  Activities for families will be available, along with a free introduction to massage therapy and Reiki and light refreshments. Open until 8 p.m. Call 723-6747.

Artist Mike Elsass will be painting live at Color of Energy (16 Brown St.) New artwork by Elsass, including large-scale pieces, will be on display. Call 266-3491.

To celebrate its 75th anniversary, the Dayton Society of Painters and Sculptors (48 High St.) will feature the work of some of its most dedicated members. Light refreshments will be served as guests browse artwork on view. Open until 8 p.m. Call 228-4532.

Live music and artwork by Doug McLarty will be featured at CADC (45 S. St. Clair St.). Call 313-9883.

New artwork and gifts will be on view and for sale at Gallery 510 Fine Art (508 E. Fifth St.). Call 672-6717.

First Friday is presented by the Downtown Dayton Partnership with support from the Oregon District Business Association and Rev. Cool’s “Around the Fringe” show that airs on Fridays from 8 p.m. to midnight on WYSO-FM 91.3. The Downtown Dayton Partnership’s website has a complete list of downtown’s arts and cultural amenities, as well as a dining guide, parking map and much more. Download the Find It Downtown mobile search tool for smartphones at http://mobile.downtowndayton.org.

The Fearsome 15: Top Guilty Food Pleasures in Dayton

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Frisch’s Hot Fudge Cake is Sinful

We all have them, we all need them… guilty pleasures.   As we get older, we try to eat healthier, but once in a while, you gotta splurge.  Dayton is a great place to do so.   Sure, there is fear in seeing the calorie count, and scary scale readings the following week… but sometimes you gotta have a ghastly, full blown Food Adventure.

So without further ado, we present present our list of the Top 15 Guilty Food Pleasures of the Dayton Area:

 

15) THE FOOTLONG CHILI DOG at THE ROOT BEER STANDE: Long and strong, we came to get the friction on.  This wiener is a mouthful of goodness and a ruined shirt waiting to happen.  Eat it in your car, roll up the windows so no one can see,.  But we know… this is one of your guilty pleasures.

 

14) FRICKER’S RIBS & WINGS DINNER:  This huge meal comes with a half rack of ribs, those famous fried chicken wings, cole slaw, roll and an side.  Finger lickin’ good, and a naughty belt buster for sure.

 

13) THE PEANUT BUTTER SUNDAE at JET FREEZE:  Homemade peanut butter sauce, ice cream, whip cream, nuts and a cherry on top.  The peanut butter sauce alone is so sinful that it catapults it onto the list.

 

12) THE BROOKYLYN BRAWLER PIZZA at JOHNNY’S SLICE of NY:  When you serve a giant, stuffed pizza as big as a spare tire, it has to be a guilty pleasure.  Big eaters of the Miami Valley come from far and wide not only to eat this giant creation, but to see if 2 of them can finish it in 30 minutes or less to get on the wall of fame.  Filled with various meats and cheeses, this guilty pleasure is for serious eaters.

 

11) THE SEAFOOD PLATTER at TREASURE ISLAND: Deep fried scallops, a cod filet, frog legs, fried shrimp and stuffed crab on a plate with 2 sides.  You can taste it all, but don’t test your cholesterol that day.  The over the top moment of this dinner is when they serve you some drawn butter for dipping.  Oh, behave !

 

10) ALL-YOU-CAN EAT FISH at the HASTY TASTY PANCAKE HOUSE:  For just $7.25, you can literally fill yourself to the gills.  Breaded and crispy, it is one of the best ‘bangs for your buck’ as far as sinful meals go.   The fish is Alaskan pollock, and when you add the sides, rolls and butter slabs, the wheels come off the diet train.

 

9) BROASTED CHICKEN at GEORGE’S FAMILY RESTAURANT:  Deep fried in a pressure cooker, this stuff is guilty fun for the while family.  Moist inside, the chicken is always cooked to perfection. Get some heavenly comfort food sides and complete this trip to dream street.

 

North China’s Crispy Shrimp: Rich, Spicy Flavor with a Touch of Sweetness

8) CRISPY SHRIMP at NORTH CHINA:  One of our favorite Chinese restaurants serves us a sweet sauced, deep fried shrimp dish that will knock you on your socks.  The taste, the crunch, the bites of sauce mixed with rice.  Overdone richness?  Guilty as charged.

 

7) POTATO SKIN CUPS at ANGIE’S FIREHOUSE:  Stuffed with chili, bacon, onions, tomatoes, cheddar cheese, green onions, jalapenos and sour cream they are a beautiful piece of work.  You will find yourself eating an entire plate of these and passing out in a food coma.

 

6) BISCUITS & GRAVY at TANK’S:  Delicious, artery clogging goodness.  Although this legendary spot on Wayne Avenue has many treasures, we find this to be our most guilty pleasure.

 

5)  THE HOT FUDGE CAKE at FRISCH’S:  We know, this is semi-local and more of a regional treat, but it deserves a spot on our list.  Hot, steaming fudge, hitting the cool cake and ice cream.  The feeling of the whip cream and hot fudge on your lips is worth every calorie.

 

4) THE PANZAROTTI at MAMMA DISALVO’S:  This is pretty much a calzone that is the size of a small kid.  Imagine an extra large pizza full of toppings and cheese, that has been folded in half.  Served with dipping sauce, it is like cutting into a turkey to begin eating.  Go all out and dip your forkfuls into marina or ranch.  It is absolutely delicious.

Click to Enlarge: Broasted Chicken from George’s Family Restaurant

 

3) THE HOG BURGER at VOLTZY’s:  Voltzy says he named the burger after his ex-wife.  All we know is that this mammoth 20 ounce burger melts in your mouth, and you find yourself saying “I can’t believe I ate the whole thing.”

 

2) CASSANO’S BIG CHEESE PIZZA:  Like Vic Cassano Sr said “It’s one heck of a pizza.”   That famous Cassano’s crust and sauce, loaded with pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, green peppers, olives and finished off with a m0und of cheese.  The proof is in the taste.

 

The Big Bo BJ Breakfast Sandwich from B&B Carryout

1) THE “BIG BO BJ” at B&B CARRYOUT:  Get your mind out of the gutter, this is a breakfast sandwich.  And it is one helluva guilty pleasure.  This craziness is a bun with sausage, a fried egg, a hash brown patty, American cheese,strips of bacon and hot pepper cheese.  You won’t feel that guilty, because the every bite is just so darn good.  A handful of greasy, gooeyness, with great flavor.  If you haven’t tried the Big Bo BJ, you need to grab yourself one.

 

Do you feel guilty yet?  Naughty nibbles indeed.  Honorable Mention to : Paragon Supper Club’s Paragon Supreme Dessert- a peanut butter and chocolate ice cream mousse, Marion’s Super Cheese Pizza – delicious, Tank’s Chili Cheese Fries-out of this world, and Submarine House’s Super Duper Cheesesteak– triple the meat and cheese & 16 inches long.

DID WE LEAVE ANY OUT?  WHICH OF YOUR FAVORITE GUILTY PLEASURES SHOULD WE HAVE INCLUDED IN OUR LIST??

Please comment below and let us know !

For more fun from Dayton’s one-of-a-kind foodies visit FOOD ADVENTURES with THE BIG RAGU, CHEF HOUSE and HUNGRY JAX on FACEBOOK and “like” us HERE .

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(DE-FI) Presents: A Time to Be Thankful

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535741_355776941219109_178054346_nWhen I decided to go ahead with the plans to create a new fashion organization for the Miami Valley, it was very important that Community Outreach was a priority.  Not only did we want to show our support for local organizations out to make a positive difference in our community on a financial level but I wanted to make sure that we were very hands on in the various activities; in fact it’s required that all models on our roster volunteer at least 40 hours a year in their respective communities to remain active within (DE-FI).

So with that being said, we’re excited to announce that on Friday November 22, from 7p-9p the Dayton Emerging Fashion Incubator (DE-FI) LLC is b04a4f_b0d802147117959e4a7a8da4e65ca242.jpg_srz_170_150_85_22_0.50_1.20_0sponsoring the Circle of Vision Keepers Annual A Time to Be Thankful Event at the Payne Recreation Center in Moraine.   Guest Speakers will include the Honorable Judge Walter Rice and Montgomery County Commissioner Debbie Lieberman. The Circle of Vision Keepers is the official non-profit for (DE-FI) and the programs Director is (DE-FI)’s Director of Community Outreach Khadijah Ali.  The organization’s main focus is to assist individuals who are battling substance abuse issues and/or are returning citizens looking to turn their lives around after being incarcerated.   The Circle of Vision Keepers provides toiletries, clothing, non-perishable food items, and bus tokens for participants and their families year round and helps them prepare to re-enter the job market.  The purpose of A Time to Be Thankful is to continue to build the esteem of the Circle of Vision Keepers participants by way of showing them the community does care about their well-being and growth as individuals from the Average Joe to our elected officials, in fact during our July 13th Launch Party, we did not serve alcohol at the event in an effort to foster a nurturing environment for the Circle of Vision Keepers participants who served as volunteers.

During A Time to Be Thankful there will be a Fashion Show produced by (DE-FI) using The Circle of Vision Keepers participants as models and they will be wearing clothing items from the Circles of Vision Keepers store, Gilmart & Co, Loralei’s Boutique, and (DE-FI) Designer Brenda Marone.   Participants will also be recipients of makeovers being provided by (DE-FI)ance Magazine’s Assistant Editor and Chief  Joshua Ladner, who is the owner of J Ladner’s Salon opening soon in the St. Clair Lofts and (DE-FI)’s Director of Beauty Lisa Scott, owner of Beaute Box.   A $20 donation is requested from attendees which will cover the cost of the dinner that will be served and catered by Maryanne’s Kitchen but no one will be turned away for a meal due to an inability to pay and rumor has it that Santa Claus may be making a special appearance as well! (But you didn’t hear that from us!!)  Tickets will be on sale Nov.1 and available at Beaute Box, J Ladner Salon and the Circle of Vision Keepers. Tickets can also be purchased at the door.

We are currently requesting donations of hats, gloves, scarves, toys, and non-perishable food items to be given to participants and those in need.  We are also giving away (10) Turkeys and food baskets to families in need!  Donations can be dropped off at Beaute Box which is located at 116 W 5th St, Dayton, OH 45402 and at the Circle of Vision Keepers located at 3401 Wood-man Dr. Suite 12, Kettering, Ohio 45429, please call the Circle of Vision Keepers to arrange a drop off of donations at 937-296-1077.  Also if you or someone you know of is in need of a Holiday Basket please send an email to circleofvisionkeepers@yahoo.com or to info@daytonemergingfashionincubator.com.  Special thanks to the City of Moraine and the Payne Recreational Center for donating their community room to us to hold the event!  We hope to see you on November 22!!

Miamisburg Pub Crawl & Halloween Bash This Thursday

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50515_121554427901303_6342869_nAnnual downtown “Pub Crawl” celebration hosted by downtown restaurants and bars. Costumes are encoraged so be sure to dress up or you’ll stand out in the crowd. You’re sure to see some unique characters. It’s a fun and festive evening filled with music, food & drink specials, free carriage rides and more.

$2.00 – advance ticket
$3.00 – day of event
Tickets available at the participating businesses listed below.

Each establishment will have live music
First Drink at each establishment (well drinks & Domestic beer) is 1/2 off with ticket from 6 – 9pm
Free appetizer table at each establishment from 6 – 8pm
Free carriage ride between establishments
Get your ticket stamped at each location for a chance to win $500

Participating businesses include:
– A Taste of Wine
– TJ Chumps
– Bullwinkles Top Hat Bistro
– Good Time Charlies
– Giuliano’s
– American Legion Post 165
– Ron’s Pizza House
– Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 2306

Food Adventures does “Dinner and a Ghost!”

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Is Snow Hill Country Club Haunted ? Have dinner and decide yourself

Ever had dinner with a ghost?   Well here is your chance, Ghost Hunters!   Snow Hill Country Club is haunted, and had been serving up “Dinner and a Ghost” nights on Fridays in October for the past 12 years.    In fact, the place is so legendary, that it was featured on an episode of the Biography channel’s “My Ghost Story.”  The country club is located just outside of Wilmington, on State Route 73.  The “Dinner and a Ghost” nights feature food, fear and even an overnight stay.

The Food Adventures Crew have eaten in many scary places, but this was our first “Haunted Food Adventure.”   The food is pretty straight forward.  On our two trips to the country club, buffet items included turkey and ham, while another night they featured ribs and salmon.   The meal is rounded out with salad, a couple of sides and a dessert plate shared by the table, or possibly some cake.

But we weren’t here for the food, we were here for the ghosts.  And Snow Hill delivered….

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— “Dinner and a Ghost” features appetizers in the bar and a buffet style dinner.    The menu has improved since the 1820’s and they wont be serving  rabbit, steamed onions, venison and beef tongue anymore. 

One of our dinners featured Ribs and Salmon

— After dinner, the hosts take you on a guided tour complete with historical information, sound recordings of unexplained voices, and even a couple of photos believed to be “supernatural.”  Tour gurus include historian Kathleen Madison and Ghost expert/Paranormal Investigator Shelly Suittor.   Supporting cast includes Ghost Hunters Kat Powell and Alicia Soich.

— After the tour, guests are encouraged to look around for about an hour and explore for themselves.  During this time a few notable unexplained “phenomenon” have been known to occur.

— Attendees may purchase alcohol at a full service bar on the main level.

— There are 6 guest rooms, and groups may make reservations to stay the night for about 100 bucks per room.   Included in the stay is “ghost hunting” all night, if you have the guts to roam the halls late at night.   Even golf may be arranged during good weather.

— Snow Hill Country Club is located in New Vienna, Ohio at 11093 New Vienna Rd (Daytonians know this as State Route 73).  Famous visitors have included Henry Ford, Eleanor Roosevelt, and legendary 1920’s golfer, Walter Hagen.

— Minimum groups for ‘dinner and a ghost’ are 12 people.  Cost of dinner and tour is $45 per person.

Click to enlarge: What you think of the “orb” in this photo. Is it the sign of a spirit ?

 

MUST SCREAMS:

— Snow Hill was built and owned by the Harris family in 1820.  It was a popular Inn and tavern up through the 1900’s.  One of the oldest running businesses in Ohio, the country club is said to be haunted by spirits of past owners, family members and past guests.

— Many stories abound from the 70’s and 80’s like a man whom believed he hit a pedestrian in the road, but noone was found.   Or records of police and firefighters responding to alarms and seeing unexplained light and movements throughout the house.

— The Food Adventures Crew had a few unexplained happenings during our two tours:

Big Ragu was taking photographs in the dark, damp cellar thought to be a passage for the underground railroad.   In some of the photos, some circular orbs appeared, one very prominently.  We were told that many ghost hunters believe these are tell tale signs of “spirits” in the room.   To be honest, we do not know what to think, other than the orbs were strange and not in photos taken of the same place seconds earlier.  The prominent orb in the photo had a distinct outline and almost looked to have “veins” running through it.  Odd indeed.  Is it a spirit?  You decide.

The Big Ragu was in the storage area of the basement, when the door next to him opened about an inch and then slammed quickly.  He looked around the room at the handful of people near him and they had that “oh crap” look on their face.  Ragu opened the door and saw a dark empty hall with a staircase, there was nobody there.  There was also a moment where the Big Ragu felt something grab his back pocket.  He was unsure if this was a  fan who liked his behind or a ghost.

Elegant, yet Spooky: Stay the night… if you dare

— During our 2nd visit to Snow Hill, one of our fellow guests took a photo of what appears to be an apparition in one of the bedrooms.   Again, unexplained and just plain weird.

— Employees tell stories of glasses shattering, chandeliers swinging violently, and various apparition sightings.

— Recordings of various unexplained voices gave us goosebumps, especially one particular ghost that whispered the word “Becky” as clear as day on the recording.  The voice was creepy like Golem from Lord of the Rings movies, or like someone who ate too much at Golden Corral.

— An 1880’s portrait photo of an man was found in a cupboard, and when locked away, would keep appearing in various open areas of the country club.  One of the tour guests recognized the photo as her ancestor Thomas Wilson, a Civil War vet.   Since being identified, it was found out that he was a former owner of the country club, purchasing it at auction in 1898.  Since being identified, his photo has ceased moving inexplicably.

— A candlemaker tool levitated and slammed to the ground on a couple of occasions in front of various dinner party guests a few years back.   The theory is that the ghost of the original owner, Mrs Harris, might not be keen on a “peasant tool” being allowed in her formal dining room as decor.

 

With Halloween around the corner, this is the perfect time for “Dinner and a Ghost” at Snow Hill Country Club.  We were skeptical going in, and realized after 2 visits, some things happened that we couldn’t explain.  Were they spirits from lives past?   Look at our photos, listen to the recordings in person.  Is the place haunted?  Did we see “ghosts?”  You decide…. and check it out for yourself,  but we suggest you don’t go alone.

Click to enlarge: On our 2nd trip to Snow Hill a fellow guest took this pic. Is is a ghost?

So you want to get spooked?  Want a frightening Food Adventure ??

Then contact Snow Hill Country Club and ask for a private Dinner and a Ghost Group (minimum 12 people).  Tell them Food Adventures sent you!

Don’t forget, you can book an overnight stay and/or a round of golf !

For reservations contact General Manager Katie Gephardt at katie@snowhillcountryclub.com or call her at 937-987-2491.

The  Dinner and a Ghost website can be found HERE –>http://www.snowhillcountryclub.com/dinner-and-a-ghost/

For scary images, haunting plates and funny faces, “like” Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking HERE.

CHECK OUT THE GALLERY BELOW FOR UNEXPLAINED AND DELICIOUS PHENOMENA !

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Oh, good grief! How The Peanuts Gang Grew Up!

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Dog Sees God FB picBeavercreek Community Theatre’s Edge of the Creek Productions will present “Dog Sees God: Confessions of a Teenage Blockhead,” by Burt V. Royal.  The spoof of the Charles Schulz comic strip “Peanuts” follows the original gang a decade later as their beloved beagle companion dies. A missing pen pal, an abused pianist, a pyromaniac ex-girlfriend, two drunk cheerleaders, a homophobic quarterback, a burnt out Buddhist and a drama queen sister fill the show’s ensemble.

“’ It is a window into how they could have evolved if they’d been allowed to grow into adolescence. This play shows us just how hard it is to be stuck between childhood and adulthood,” said Director Matt Curry. “When Charlie Brown’s dog dies he starts questioning his family and friends about what they think happens after death. Nobody can provide him with any solace, save for one–the target of the groups’ harsh bullying and torment. This relationship, forged from hope and love, has disastrous consequences careening towards a poignant and heartfelt ending.”

“This play’s subject matter requires a certain level of maturity and tolerance. The audience must be willing to let these character’s lives develop. There is strong language, sexuality, intense bullying, explosive emotions, drug use, and rebellion,” Curry said.  Edge of the Creek Productions  is an “edgy” branch of BCT, created to broaden the scope of their traditional season of family-oriented productions.
The show opens this  weekends and runs through November 3rd.  Friday and Saturday performances are at 8pm; Sunday matinees are at 3 pm at the Beavercreek Community Theatre, 3868 Dayton-Xenia Road in Beavercreek. For ticket information, call the box office at 429-4737 or e-mail boxoffice@bctheatre.org.

 

Friday and Saturday performances are at 8 p.m.; Sunday matinees are at 3 p.m. at the Beavercreek Community Theatre, 3868 Dayton-Xenia Road in Beavercreek. For ticket information, call the box office at 429-4737 or e-mail boxoffice@bctheatre.org.

 

‘Don’t Slip’ on Dip Spit

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You are a person that enjoys music that is light to the ears.  When you are having dinner with that special loved one, you light the candles on the table and softly start that smooth music that only seals the deal of making the night perfect.  How about this-you are person that enjoys soft rock.  You are at the doctor’s office and you start to Michael Bolton belt out love songs.  C’mon, you enjoy it.  You try to hide it.   You scoff at the fact that you are sitting there listening to someone who lose their cool whenever he is on the television.  I’m not a fan, personally, but hey-the cat has fans.

Well…this isn’t going to be that type of music listening.

(Photo Courtesy-Jennifer Taylor Clarke)

Two men comprise the hip hop duo Dip Spit, and they are about to drop their names in the music scene’s hat with their first LP, Fight Music for Boot & Fist.  DipSpit, and DJ DumptRuck make up the band (their actual names have been made to be a  secret).  They started their bond for music when both of them attended Wright State University.  They attended some of the same  classes, including some poetry sessions.  DipSpit moved to Chicago where he followed his love for poetry.  “It was really amazing to  be around all those poets”, DipSpit explained.  “There would be poetry slams that I would attend that really were out of this world  with how quickly folks could make up such amazing work.”

After a couple of years, DipSpit became unhappy with being in the hustle and bustle of the Windy City and decided to come back  home.  When he returned, he started to write music and would showcase it with DumptRuck.  In return, DumptRuck would also  supply music.  “We had a blast making music for one another.  We would always be trying out stuff for one another.  The twosome  even would reveal that they have been creating music for the past four years.  “We didn’t think about it”, DumptRuck says when  asked about not releasing the music.  “We were just cool with only having it for ourselves.”

However, the pair realized that they have some really good work that they felt would be good enough to possibly be released.  So, they started to slowly hitting the open mic circuit, with mostly performing at that now recently closed down RnR Playdate, which was held weekly on Sunday nights at One Eyed Jacks in Fairborn, Ohio.  “We really felt like we really had a home at that open mic”, DipSpit declares.  “We really developed our stage presence there.”  The crowd reaction to each of their sets grew more and more appreciative to their unique presence and unique show.  Both men hit the stage with such bravado and swagger.  They throw every ounce of themselves into their show.  DumptRuck’s plain white t-shirts that have a hand written statement written on them quickly become soaked with sweat.  Dip Spit is a mildly quiet guy till his heads touch a microphone.  He then turns into a fast-spitting lyricist that immediately gets the crowd into the show with him.

A year will be removed with the release of Fight Music for Boot & Fist.  Dip Spit isn’t made for everyone, and the duo is well aware.  Their lyrics dive into the pool of fun and carefree immaturity.  Some would quickly think that the band Tenacious D had some part of this in the way of influence.  What really stands out, however, is the music that accompanies the lyrics.  Both Dip Spit and DumptRuck cite that have dove into the vast collection of hip hop from the early beginnings of its introduction into the music world.  Run DMC, Eric B. & Rakim, Public Enemy are a few of the artists that they grew up listening to. The album itself contains a bootleg feel that is perfect for these two.  The titles of the songs themselves also will give the listener the impression that this duo doesn’t really take things seriously, including a sampled Dropkick Murphy ‘Shipping Up To Boston’ in the first track ‘Hulk Hogan Sex Tape’.  However, when you dive into the LP, you quickly realize that the guys are in fact taking their craft seriously.  It’s a fine line of just goofing off and presenting polished work.  Dip Spit manages to have their cake and eat it too.  As I mentioned earlier, the music isn’t made for everyone.  The duo even will tell you that it isn’t.  However-you can’t help but let go and enjoy this offering.  It’s almost genius.

Four years in the making, Fight Music for Boot & Fist will be released for the masses in all its glory and Dip Spit, DJ DumptRuck are proud of the work that dipspitthey have done.  “It’s been a long time coming, and we are excited to give the people this album”, Dip Spit says.

Dayton-Dip Spit has arrived.  You have been warned.  Or has the band always says-“Don’t Slip.”

This Saturday night, Dip Spit will be also celebrating their new work by throwing their event, Fist Fest 2013.  Alt-Country/Punk Rock singer Christopher Salyer, the amazingly talented Trey Stone, and Indie rockers Monkey with Bone will also be performing at Oregon Express along with the duo.  Showtime is at 9pm.  To hear more of the band, click here.

How Sweet It Is!

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sweetestdaytonSweetest Day: Born In The Heart Of It All

Close to 100 years ago, in the land of Cleve, long before the Rock N Roll Hall of fame was even a figment in anyone’s imagination (rock n roll didn’t exist yet), 12 savvy businessmen concocted a new holiday. With their incomes tied directly to the greeting card and confection industries, they invented Sweetest Day. Fast forward to October 2013 and Sweetest Day is still alive and kickin’. While some may view a corporate-created faux holiday a waste of time, let’s face the reality, everyone likes to feel loved…or maybe even liked. So let’s jump into some of the local gifty options for your sweetie on Saturday, Oct 19th…

Back To The Basics, With A Modern Twist

Sweetest Day began with candy and cards, so let’s start there. While most Daytonians have fallen in love with the chocolatey goodness chocolateheartsinside the magic gold box with the classic red bow, did you know that Esther Price carries other sugary confections, like chocolate covered potato chips? They even have some delicious sugar-free options. Another yummy choice comes from Winan’s . Their dark chocolate meltaways are divine, and let’s not forget about the local favorite, BUCKEYES! No sweet tooth? No problem! Sometimes the greatest gifts one could receive are your handwritten thoughts and feelings. Since most of us have graduated from the intricately folded footballs passed in study hall, why not pick out a unique card? Some of the coolest ones can be found in the Oregon District, at Peace On Fifth. You can ignite your passion with compassion by knowing that the card or other gift you choose is fair-trade.

The Way To A Man’s Heart…

In all fairness, that phrase seems sooooo 1950’s, and really, everyone loves a good meal. While our Dining Guide has all the details for restaurants in every part of the Miami Valley at every price point, we thought we’d throw out a couple of options as a reminder that you may want to pick up the phone and make a reservation.

A sexy Saturday night downtown should probably include a meal at one of our favorites:

Olive, an Urban DiveddlogoHEARTS

Salar

Roost

If you prefer to keep it casual: 

Lucky’s

Blind Bob’s

One of the amazing food trucks or popular local breweries

If You Like It Then You Shoulda Put a Bow On It

Even the most selfless person can admit, gifts are fun. Thoughtful gifts can be super fun.

For the fashionista: Tom Ford sunnies from Gamine, sky high stilettos from Integritas, a Big Buddha bag from Merchant 31, or a fun & funky vintage jacket from Clash.

For the stressed: a massage gift certificate at your sweeties favorite salon / spa, a round of golf before the weather gets too cold, or a mini staycation at home!

For just about anyone: a nice bottle or gift certificate for Arrow Wine!

For the adventurous: Red Ribbon tickets to Saturday’s MasqueRAGE!

We hope this is helpful, or at least gives you inspiration for your own personalized ideas.