The Featured Articles

Second FUSIAN Location Coming to Centerville

February 26, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

FUSIAN, a fan-favorite fast-casual sushi restaurant, will open a Centerville location in the Spring of 2015. The new location will occupy 1800 square feet at Oak Creek Crossing, a mixed-use retail development on SR-725 that will also be home to Whole Foods. “When ﬁnding real estate it’s all about timing,” said Co-Founder, Zach Weprin. “We’ve been very patient and strategic in the Dayton area, and we think we’ve found the perfect spot for our brand. It’s been worth the wait.”

Founders Stephan C. Harman, Zach Weprin and Josh Weprin.

Founded in 2010, by Dayton natives Josh Weprin, Zach Weprin and Stephan Harman, FUSIAN has become a favorite not only for its new take on sushi, but also for it’s commitment to the local community, sustainability, and a superior sushi dining experience. In the last year-and-a-half, they have created a Sushi in Schools program which serves sushi to 18 regional High School cafeterias. “It’s created an amazing bond between us and our communities,” says co-founder Josh Weprin. “We created something that has united kids, their parents, school administrators, and FUSIAN through something that is very familial; food. It’s been nothing short of amazing!” “Dayton is where we grew up!” said co-founder Stephan Harman. “With our store on Brown Street and now a store in Centerville, our roots are only getting stronger here.”

FUSIAN positions itself in the fast-casual arena as an accessible option for both sushi veterans and newcomers alike. Diners are offered traditional and modern sushi rolls with signature proteins such as raw tuna, salmon, and yellowtail as well as roasted chicken and braised steak. “We like to tell people, if you love sushi, you’ll love FUSIAN, if you’ve never had sushi, you’ll love FUSIAN!” says Josh Weprin, “It’s our way to encourage people to rethink sushi.” FUSIAN is committed to sourcing superior ingredients, promoting positive health, and afﬁrming social responsibility. Additionally, FUSIAN accommodates diners with most food allergies and dietary restrictions, including gluten-free, as well as offering vegan, and vegetarian options.

The founders set out to create a place where discerning diners could eat everyday. They sought a place that broke down sushi stereotypes and misconceptions in an engaging and interactive environment. On the FUSIAN experience, co-founder Stephan Harman expressed that, “It starts with what your eating but it doesn’t stop there…” he adds, “You’ve got ﬁve senses, and we feel that the FUSIAN experience is best crafted when you use all of them. We like good music, great food, and great attitudes… it’s what unites our customers with our team, our food, and our community.”

FUSIAN has accrued many accolades regionally including, “Dayton’s Best Sushi” in 2012, 4 Best of Cincy mentions and one of the Cincinnati Regional Chamber of Commerce’s “Top 10 under 10” in 2011.

Follow FUSIAN’s journey at facebook.com/eatfusian and fusian.com

Dayton BBQ Entrepreneur Tackles DMM’s 10?’s

February 26, 2014 By Lisa Grigsby Leave a Comment

Growing up Lea Richards and her family would go on family vacations every year and turn each trip into one big barbecue hunt. They literally went to every so-called BBQ hot spot and had their fingers deliciously smeared from digging into A LOT of different kinds of barbecue. As Lea describes it, “we went through some tough ones (pun intended), but we also found some authentic, finger-lickin’ good ones—usually from mom-and-pop restaurants and other hole-in-the-wall dining places. And after scouring every town, city, state, or region, our search has finally ended. Guess where? Right in our kitchen. But, we realized that we need not continue the hunt, fun as it was. We didn’t have to go anywhere for the best barbecue. We had all the experience, tips, and recipes from around the country to make the best barbecue in the country, right in our house!”

Thus began the Pig of the Month BBQ business in 2010. Lea left her hectic life on Wall Street in 2010 and began the mail order barbecue company. Recreating her favorite barbecues from different regions, she makes smoked barbecue ribs, award winning pulled pork, specialty sausages, gourmet bacon, BBQ sides, and lip-smacking Award Winning BBQ sauces—and share the goodness with you! Pig of the Month offers ribs just the way all barbecue lovers want them: perfectly seasoned, tender-on-the-inside but crispy-on-the-outside, smoky, and mouthwatering—just tear-off-the-bones good barbecue.

This 2009 UD grad has grown her business into a successful company and has been featured on Good Morning America, been written about in Forbes Magazine and had her BBQ featured in Playboy Magazine. She’s won awards for her Mustard based BBQ sauce and Martha Stewart Magazine recognized Pig of the Month as a Best Gift, while Southern Living Magazine awarded them with the Best Ribs title. They’ve filled orders for Whoopi Goldberg, Iron Chef Michael Symon, Paula Deen, Stephen Colbert and Chelsea Handler.

Pig of the Month has been nominated as one of 100 finalists in the FedEx Small Business Grant Contest and will find out at the end of March if she’ll be awarded a grant to help her “expand her product line and offer her customers even more delicious items to choose from.” In the meantime Lea agreed to answer our Chef 10 Questions:

1. What is your favorite ingredient to cook with?

Well, I think this may be a bit obvious, but Bacon!

2. What ingredient do you dread?

Personally, anything I don’t like to eat: shrimp, fennel, or oysters mainly.

3. What’s your favorite dish to make?

For an easy weeknight meal, fish tacos. For something dressier I make a killer wild mushroom bread pudding.

4. What’s your favorite pig out food?

Grilled Cheese Sandwiches made with pulled pork, pimento cheese, and extra BBQ sauce

5. What restaurant, other than your own do you like to dine at in the Miami Valley?

I’m obsessed with Roost, I love the patio at Lily’s, and you can’t beat lunch at Coldwater Cafe.

6. What’s your best advice for home chefs?

Follow the recipe to the T the first time, and then experiment to make it your own once you know what its supposed to taste like.

7. If you could invite any 4 guests to a dinner party who would they be and why?

Winston Churchill for the commentary, George Clooney to seduce, Anna Kendrick because she’s Anna Kendrick, and Grant Aschatz to help me cook.

8. Who do you look up to in the industry and why?

Since our business is mostly mail order, I tend to be more in the business side of things nowadays.

I do admire what Kim at Olive, An Urban Dive has done though – she sticks to all natural ingredients, uses local suppliers, and works hard to make sure everything is cooked from scratch. That’s something I try to replicate at Pig of the Month

9. What do you do in the Miami Valley on a day off?

I love the MetroParks! I go trail running with my puppy at Englewood and Wegerzyn all the time. And then I head to Roost for a cocktail and some truffle fries 🙂

10. Share a kitchen disaster, lucky break or other interesting story:

When I first started my business we were lucky enough to be asked by Michael Symon to be on Good Morning America as a last minute segment. At that time I was still cooking all the ribs and everything all by my lonesome, and I found myself with 4,000+ orders to fulfill all at once.

Since I had never cooked so many ribs at one time, I didn’t realize that when I flipped them that all of the grease would hit the charcoal all at once….yep, you guessed it. Big flames!

I had to call everyone and let them know their orders would be late, and it took a week for pro’s to clean it all up! Lesson learned!

New Space Shuttle Exhibit Open Feb 26th at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force

February 24, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

National Museum of the U.S. Air Force visitors will be cleared for liftoff when the museum’s new Space Shuttle Exhibit opens to the public on Feb. 26.
The exhibit, which features NASA’s first Crew Compartment Trainer, allows visitors to experience the size and shape of an actual space shuttle orbiter by entering the payload bay and looking into the flight deck and mid-deck levels.

Following the arrival of the Crew Compartment trainer in summer 2012, work began on the design and construction of a full-scale representation of a NASA shuttle payload bay, engine, and tail sections, along with a 60-seat dedicated educational area or Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Learning Node, by Display Dynamics, Inc. of Clayton, Ohio.

These portions of the exhibit, along with visitor observation and access structures, have been completed and the Teal Ruby satellite has been placed inside the payload bay. In addition, space-related videos will be available for viewing in the STEM Learning Node (when it is not in use for other scheduled programs).

Future plans call for the museum to continue populating the exhibit with additional artifacts such as space suits and provide interpretive information about topics such as astronauts, space science, living in space, and the Air Force’s role in space. Eventually, the exhibit will be moved to a new Space Gallery in the museum’s fourth building as part of a multi-phase, long-term expansion plan to house the museum’s growing space collection, as well as the Presidential Aircraft Gallery, Research & Development Gallery and Global Reach Gallery.

According to Museum Director Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Jack Hudson, the exhibit is truly unique and will serve as an important educational tool.

“We are very pleased to open this one-of-a-kind Space Shuttle Exhibit and STEM Learning Node, and we thank Display Dynamics, Inc. for their hard work in helping us make these structures a reality,” Hudson said. “This exhibit will inspire us all to learn more about space and the role of our Air Force in space, and we hope that when you visit – whether that be in-person or online – it will inspire you, too, and become one of the vehicles that launches a new generation of Americans who are well-educated about space and STEM.”

Other components of the Space Shuttle Exhibit include two interactive space shuttle landing simulators, which were added last summer and allow visitors to test their skill at landing a space shuttle orbiter. Designed by Historic Space Systems of Danville, Ohio, the simulators are representative of a space shuttle commander’s and pilot’s stations, and feature a reproduction of the forward portion of the space shuttle flight deck with internal cockpit dimensions that replicate its actual size.

The National Museum of the United States Air Force, located at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base near Dayton, Ohio, is the service’s national institution for preserving and presenting the Air Force story from the beginning of military flight to today’s war on terrorism. It is free to the public and features more than 360 aerospace vehicles and missiles and thousands of artifacts amid more than 17 acres of indoor exhibit space. Each year more than one million visitors from around the world come to the museum. The museum is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week. The museum is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.

Some museum exhibits have special hours. The 8th Air Force Control Tower andNissen Hut, located in the Air Park, are open from noon to 4 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday from January through March (closed Monday through Thursday) and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily April through December.

The Presidential and R&D Galleries are open from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday-Sunday. Click here for requirements on visiting those galleries, which are located on the controlled-access portion of Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.For more information, visit www.nationalmuseum.af.mil.

Story by Rob Bardua
National Museum of the U.S. Air Force

Exploring Dayton’s Public History

February 18, 2014 By Megan Cooper 1 Comment

George Willeman was featured in the documentary THESE AMAZING SHADOWS.

Each year, the public history students at Wright State University hold a graduate symposium to enable them to present their research and capstone projects. If you love local history, you won’t want to miss some of the great stories these students have discovered.

PLUS: The featured speaker this year is George Willeman (pictured right), Library of Congress Film Vault curator and WSU film grad.

The symposium will be held on Friday, March 14, in the WSU Student Union. The Symposium is free, but please RSVP by March 7. RSVP by calling the Wright State University Archives at 937-775-2092 or register at http://www.libraries.wright.edu/calendar/events.php. Free parking is available in the Visitor Lot of the Student Union. See map at www.wright.edu/university-maps/campus-maps.

It’s a full day of great local history compiled by the students. The schedule includes:

8:15-9:00 Registration and Refreshments

9:00-9:15 Welcome

9:15-10:00 Keynote Speaker, George Willeman, Library of Congress Nitrate Film Vault Manager

10:00-10:15 Break – Snacks provided

10:15-11:15 Session I: The Legacy of World War I

Kaitlyn Goss: “Miami Valley African-American Communities During World War I”
Karis Raeburn: “The Amazing Adventures of Alice Carr”
Kyle Yoho: “A Long Way from Home: The Story of Clark County Men Serving with the 324th Field Artillery in the Great War”

11:15-12:45 Lunch – Enjoy a meal at the Student Union or one of the many area restaurants

12:45-1:00 Introduction to Wright State University’s Public History Program, Dawne Dewey, Head of Special Collections and Archives and Director of Public History

1:00-2:00 Session II: Interpreting Local History

Christopher Erb: “Dayton and Its Gem of an Arcade”
Seth Marshall: “Interpreting the Battleship: USS Indiana”
Rebekkah Mulholland: “A Forty-year old Legacy: The Unique History of Wright State University”

2:00-2:30 Poster Session and Break- Snacks provided

2:30-3:10 Session III: Women with Nerve

Sarah Aisenbrey: “Virginia Kettering: A Legacy in Dayton”
Marcus Manchester: “The Legacy of Dorothy Stang”

3:10-3:15 Public History 40th Anniversary Preview

3:15-3:30 Closing Remarks

PH Symposium_2014Flier_final

Ha Ha Pizza with Local Artist, Tom Watson III

February 17, 2014 By Dayton937 1 Comment

Pizza with Artichokes, Spinach, Fresh Garlic, Pesto, and Turkey Sausage

Some Food Adventures are inspiring. Take the case of local artist, scenester and zinester, Tom Watson III. In March 2005, he survived a brain stem stroke. What did he do next? He used art to recover his motor skills and heal his mind. Today some of his collection adorns the walls of Ha Ha Pizza in Yellow Springs for a limited art showing. Tom’s art show, titled “Entropy & Reclamation” will be running though March 2014. The event is named for his initial decay and chaos from the stroke, and his eventual reclaiming of a normal life.

We have actually eaten with Tom at HaHa Pizza a couple of times, since his first art show in 2007. We will get into the pizza in a bit, but first some history.

Tom’s story is one of overcoming obstacles, and never giving up. Since his stroke, his life has changed. He used the artwork not only to recover, he finished his degree, he married a loving wife, and has two wonderful sons. Again, an inspiration and not bad for someone who wasn’t expected to live through the massive stroke. He not only lived, he turned the entire ordeal into a learning experience. He tackled his nightmare head-on, using scans of his brain stroke in many of his paintings.

You might be cool, but are you “get a National Award from ‘The Fonz’ cool” like Tom ?

Tom exhibits his art locally from time to time but in 2011, it received NATIONAL attention, when Tom was awarded the first annual RAISE Award from the National Stroke Association. Watson received the Outstanding Individual Award in recognition of his efforts to advocate for stroke awareness and prevention through his artwork. The awards ceremony was held at the Denver Natural History museum in Denver, Colorado, and Watson was honored with the award by Henry “The Fonz” Winkler of Happy Days fame.

Tom’s art is unique and takes you through his mind and recovery. We asked why he uses cardboard instead of canvas for his paintings. His answer was that it all about recycling. Tom had to learn how to recycle certain uses of his brain and muscles, so the cardboard is a message passed down from his struggle. Today, Tom announced he is facing another hardship, as he was diagnosed with cancer in his tongue. With his positive attitude, he is certain to conquer this challenge as well.

So if you want to support an incredible story of a local man beating the odds, please take some time to visit Ha Ha Pizza this Friday or visit TOM’S WEBSITE HERE. You may find a piece you like. It is more than art, it is a symbol of perseverance.

Some of Tom Watson’s artwork on display at Ha HA Pizza Through March

WHAT: Art Reception Event “Entropy & Reclamation” at Ha Ha Pizza at 108 Xenia Ave in Yellow Springs

WHEN: Feb 21st, 5:30pm – 10pm

WHY: Showcasing local artist and stroke survivor Tom Watson’s artwork.

MORE INFO: http://www.facebook.com/tomwatson3rd.art

UPCOMING ART: Tom will also be the featured artist for April 2014 at North South Studios in Wilmington, Ohio.

Watson is also in discussions to be a featured artist at X*ACT Gallery in Xenia for the Xenia Arts Council in May or June 2014.

Want to support Tom? Then check out the art show or buy some hand-printed, silk-screened T-shirts, available at Urban Handmade store in downtown Yellow Springs.

Now about our FOOD ADVENTURES to HA HA PIZZA with Mr Watson…………

******HA HA PIZZA******

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

A slice from Ha Ha Pizza with Feta cheese option and more

— Iconic pizza joint located in Yellow Springs since 1971

— An Urban Legend says the name “Ha Ha” Pizza came from the sprinkling of a certain wacky weed on the pizza and the effects on customers. Other rumors swirl about “magic mushrooms” being used on 70’s pizzas.

— All pizza dough is made daily from scratch. Crusts choices include a Whole Wheat Crust option or a Traditional Flour Crust in 9 inch, 12 inch or 16 inch pies

— Causal atmosphere, also offering Calzones, Subs and a Full Salad Bar

MUST EATS:

— THE SALAD BAR: We recommend the one trip salad bar deal, it will fill you up for sure ! No iceberg lettuce here, just some fresh Romaine Greens. Grab some of the many toppings including Tofu and Garbonzo Beans ! Ohh did we mention incredible in-house dressings too ??? Yeah … they got that.

The salad bar features Romaine lettuce, Tofu and Garbonzo Beans for openers

— THE LUNCH SPECIAL: Your choice of a slice of pizza with 2 toppings and one trip to the salad bar for $5.99. Tasty and filling!

— THE EGGPLANT SUB: Perfectly broiled slices of Eggplant, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and Ha Ha pizza sauce. Served with Mikesells Groovy chips, how appropriate !

— THE FALAFEL CALZONE:An interesting Garbonzo Bean mix, with green peppers, onions, HaHa Pizza Sauce and Mozzarella Cheese. This has to be a one of a kind, right?

— ARTICHOKE, SPINACH, PESTO, GARLIC and TURKEY SAUSAGE PIZZA: Want to try a delicious flavor combo? Try these 5 toppings on your pizza pie.

The bottom line, is this place is not a legend for nothing. Want a real Food Adventure? Try unique topping choices like bananas, water chestnuts, zucchini and falafel.

Whole Wheat Crust or White Flour Crust options on all pizzas

The Big Ragu and Crew are gonna try an anchovy and smoked oyster topping pizza next time for sure! Won’t you join us for a bite and a laugh at HA HA PIZZA???

Remember, we are not food critics, we are just 2 guys that love to eat. Want more from FOOD ADVENTURES? Then check out these “Miami Valley Foodies” and like them on Facebook HERE !

Check out our photo gallery below, showing off some of the numerous tasty meals we have had at Ha Ha Pizza. Have you been to Ha Ha? What is your take on local artist Tom Watson’s journey? Please comment below and be heard.

If you are interested in his artwork or a T-shirt feel free to contact the man, the myth, the legend, Tom Watson HERE ON FACEBOOK

[flagallery gid=77]

What Daytonian Belongs On The Walk of Fame?

February 17, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Who has had a great impact on the Dayton region? And who would YOU like to see get their paver on the Walk of Fame?

The Wright Dunbar Walk of Fame was established in honor of Dayton’s bicentennial celebration in 1996. The legacy of this community is rich with individuals who have made their mark regionally, nationally and often, internationally. The Walk of Fame exists to recognize and celebrate their accomplishments—and to share our pride with the rest of the world.

Click here to download a Walk of Fame walking tour brochure, that will include a list of past inductees.

Individual granite pavers line the sidewalks throughout the Wright Dunbar Business district with descriptions of inductees and their unique contributions to the Dayton landscape. New inductees are welcomed into the Walk of Fame family at a celebration each fall. We encourage your participation in the process!

Nominations open now through April 2. Get the form and more info here:http://www.wright-dunbar.org/walk-of-fame-nomination-period-opens/.

Day Of Caring Creates Pancake Brunches All Over Town

February 17, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Established in 1991 by Jan Venkayya, Day of Caring is a grass roots organization based in Beavercreek, made up of volunteers committed to increasing personal awareness and involvement toward confronting the ever-increasing national plight of hunger and homelessness.

Not only have the number of brunch locations increased but the number of cities, towns, and counties have also grown. In 2014, there are brunches scheduled in Clinton, Greene, Miami, Hamilton and Montgomery counties as well as the City of Dayton. They’ve also reached beyond our local boundaries to sites in Cinicinnati and Richmond Indiana. Brunches run on average $6 per person.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t-wB0CxwdyI’]

Day of Caring is more than just a one-day fundraising event; Day of Caring is first and foremost, designed to create personal awareness. By making people aware of the needs in their community, individuals can come together as one and help. We create opportunities for people to get involved.

In philosophy, Day of Caring is similar to Thanksgiving, where one day a year we come together as a nation to give thanks for our good fortune. Likewise, Day of Caring, through its ever increasing number of volunteers, sets aside one day – the last Sunday in February – where we, the community, can come together to help our less fortunate neighbors.

A new addition to the brunch includes the forming of a personal hygiene pantry which will include items that cannot be purchased with food stamps and are often difficult for those in need to get.

Sunday February 23, 2014

Click on address for map links

Hygiene Pantry Items Drop Sites Are Noted Below

RICHMOND INDIANA
First Baptist Church 1601 South “A” Street, Richmond, IN 47374 11:30am – 1:00pm	New Life Church of the Nazarene 1004 North “A” Street Richmond, IN 47374 9:00am – 11:00am
CINCINNATI OHIO
St. Monica-St. George Parish 328 W. McMillan St. Cincinnati, OH 45219 9:00am – 2:00pm	St. Bernard Church 745 Derby Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45232 11:00am – 1:00pm
Prince of Peace Lutheran Church 1522 Race Street Loveland, OH 45202 10:00am – 12:00pm	St. Mary’s Church, Hyde Park 2853 Erie Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45208 8:00am – 1:00pm

DAYTON OHIO And Surrounding Areas
Abiding Christ Lutheran Church 326 E. Dayton Yellow Springs Rd. Fairborn, OH 45324 10:00am – 1:00pm	Mad River Lions Club Community United Methodist 339 Meyer Ave., Dayton, OH 45431 9:00am – 1:00pm
Apex Church 5200 Far Hills Avenue, Dayton, OH 45429 9:30am – 1:00pm Hygiene Pantry Drop Site	New Paris Food Pantry @ National Trail School 6940 Oxford Gettysburg Rd New Paris, OH 45347 12:00pm – 3:00pm
Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church 500 Belmont Park North Dayton, OH 45405 “Time: After Church” – HONEY PUFFS	National Council Of Negro Women St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church 5301 Free Pike, Trotwood, OH 45426 9:00am – 2:00pm
Beavercreek Nazarene Church 1850 N. Fairfield Rd Beavercreek, OH 45432 8:00am – 11:00am	North Riverdale Lutheran Church 45 Kurtz Ave Dayton, OH 45405 11:30am – 1:30pm Hygiene Pantry Drop Site
Beavercreek Senior Center 3868 Dayton-Xenia Road Beavercreek, OH 45432 9:00am – 12:00pm Hygiene Pantry Drop Site	Host a Brunch Site Next Year
Belmont United Methodist Church 2701 S Smithville Road Dayton, OH 45420 8:00am – 12:00pm	Omega Baptist Church 1821 Emerson Ave Dayton, OH 45406 7:00am – 12:00pm
A Pancake Day Keeps Hunger Away	Our lady of Mercy & Corpus Christi & Queen of Martyrs & St. Vincent DePaul 220 West Siebenthaler Ave Dayton, OH 45405 9:30am – 1:00pm

Concordia Lutheran Church 250 Peach Orchard Oakwood, OH 45419 10:30am -12:30pm	Polk Grove United Church Of Christ 9190 Frederick Dr. Dayton, OH 45414 9:00am – 2:00pm Hygiene Pantry Drop Site
Eaton United Church of Christ 113 W. Decatur St. Eaton, OH 45320 11:30am – 1:00pm	Queen Of Apostles Church 4400 Shakertown Road, Dayton, OH 45430 11:00am – 1:00pm
Epiphany Lutheran Church 6430 Far Hills Avenue Dayton, OH 45459 9:00am – 1:00pm Hygiene Pantry Drop Site	Shiloh Church Philadelphia and Main, Dayton, OH 45415 9:00am – 1:00pm
Support the Day of Caring	St. Leonard – Station House 8200 Provincial Way. Centerville, OH 45458 10:00am – 2:00pm
Germantown United Methodist Church 525 Farmersville Pike. Germantown, OH 45327 8:00am – 12:30pm Hygiene Pantry Drop Site	Pancake Brunches are Awesome
Good Shepherd Lutheran Church 901 E. Stroop Rd Kettering, OH 45429 8:00am – 12:00pm Hygiene Pantry Drop Site	Stillwater United Methodist Church 6911 Fredrick Pike Dayton, OH 45415 8:00am – 1:00pm Hygiene Pantry Drop Site
Grace United Methodist Church 1001 Harvard Blvd Dayton, OH 45406 10:00am – 1:30pm Hygiene Pantry Drop Site	Target Dayton 111 Xenia Road, Dayton, OH 45415 am – pm
Harmony Creek Church 5280 Bigger Road, Kettering, OH 45440 9:00am – 12:00pm	Help the Hungry and Homeless
Jewish Federation of Greater Dayton 525 Versailles Dr, Dayton, OH 45459 am – pm	Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine White Hall (Phi Rho Sigma) 3640 Colonel Glen Highway Dayton, OH 45324 11:00am – 2:30pm
Your Site Could be Here Next Year	Xenia Adult Recreation and Services Center 130 E. Church Street Xenia, OH 45385 8:00am – 1:00pm Hygiene Pantry Drop Site
Lewisburg United Methodist Church 3147 US Route 40 East Lewisburg, OH 45338 11:00am – 2:00pm	Zion Lutheran Church 5550 Munger Road Dayton, OH 45459 9:00am – 1:00pm
Lutheran Church of Our Savior 155 East Thruston Blvd. Dayton, OH 45419 9:00am – 1:00pm	Think of Others

Anne Agoren and Izzi Bags to Headline A Weekend of (DE-FI)ance

February 15, 2014 By Dayton937 4 Comments

London born Anne Agoren of the Accessories Council, designer of Izzi Bags, Shorty Award Finalist, Media Personality, Fashion Writer, and NYC Socialite.

London born Anne Agoren, designer of Izzi Bags, Shorty Award Finalist, Media Personality, Fashion Writer, and NYC Socialite.

Trying to shine a spotlight on Dayton’s emerging fashion industry has been no easy task, whether it’s dealing with people who don’t take the industry seriously and dismiss it simply as vanity, to those who watch shows like Project Runway or America’s Next Top Model which just give a slight glimpse into how the industry really works, and those who simply don’t understand how embracing the fashion industry can be a huge boost for the local economy. Yet for the past 2 years, there has been a core group of area professionals, business owners, community leaders, and fashion insiders who have been working diligently to educate the community about the positive impact the fashion industry could have on Dayton, from producing quality events and products to showcase local talent, and helping those who have dreams to be a part of the fashion industry to reach their goals,and together this network is called the Dayton Emerging Fashion Incubator (DE-FI) LLC also known simply as (DE-FI).

Since our official Launch Party in July 2013, we’ve grown in numbers, reach, and we took on a more direct approach and by direct I mean, we went straight to the fashion capital of the world New York City. While I’m not at liberty to share the details of my work and experiences during the past two fashion week seasons, I can say that the Dayton area was blessed when Wright-Patt Air Force Base welcomed the family of Joshua Ladner to the area. Not only, has his presence had an instant impact on the growth of Downtown Dayton with the opening of the very popular #HairJourney at Salon J Ladner but he also brings with him additional experience in the world of fashion!! As a part of the Adam Project, Josh has spent the past few years being a part of almost every aspect of the production of New York Fashion Week from casting models for major designers, to show layouts, to working one on one with designers, and blogging.

Two weeks ago, Josh dropped a bombshell on me when he informed me that several high profile designer from NYC and London have committed to being a part of (DE-FI)ance Fashion Week taking place in May. Well, last week Josh and I hit the streets of New York City during Fashion Week and while we were there, he introduced me to Anne Agoren, designer of Izzi Bags, Shorty Award Finalist, and Fashion Writer. Over dinner at one of NYC most posh restaurants the Rogue Tomate, Josh and I shared the vision, direction, and work of (DE-FI) with Anne and colleague Sony Loren. To sum up the night, it ended with Anne and Sony saying they are all in and committed to not only showcasing during (DE-FI)ance Fashion Week but assisting with the of planning events!!

I wanted to give Anne a proper introduction to the people of Dayton and the Miami Valley areas and what better way to get to know someone than a Q & A session? So without further ado, introducing the newest member of Team (DE-FI) Anne Agoren!!

Q: Who is Anne Agoren? You came from humble beginnings and you are now a well-respected designer who takes the time to give back, why is giving back so important to you and why is it important for notable people like yourself to lend a hand to organizations like (DE-FI)?

A: Every day I get up and am thankful for who I am, where I am, and the opportunities that have been given to me. It has not been an easy journey, I have struggled through much heartbreak from two divorces, but been blessed with 3 fabulous boys, moved continents 3 times, had to learn another language just to survive. I had it all, lost it, and now trying once again to rebuild. When you suffer a knock back you just have to put on your big girl panties, put on your lipstick, and carry on.

Failure is not an option for me. Don’t think for one minute I am a hard faced business woman, I cry all the time when I am frustrated, when I am sad, when I am happy and that’s not a bad thing. I get very hurt by other people’s opinion and I wish sometimes I could let it run down my back as they say, but I am human, have feelings and can’t. The most important thing is to pick yourself up, brush yourself down and carry on to fight another day.

I really believe I have had the most amazing opportunities given to me, I have traveled all over the world and I want to help those that are less fortunate or who need a break. Let’s face it without a little bit of help from others the world can be a difficult place to be.

Q: How did you get your start in the fashion industry?

Izzi Bags are all hand made in Turkey. However, Anne is currently looking to bring production of Izzi Bags to the U.S.

A: When I got divorced I went to live in Cyprus, the Northern part which belongs to Turkey, I could not speak the language, I had no family or friends there and so I took a job working for a large European Design House overseeing the design, pattern making, cutting, stitching, packing and shipping. Can you imagine how hard that was when I couldn’t even communicate for over 6 months with a factory of over 300?

I went to school to learn to speak Turkish and I could actually say ” these buttons are not lined up” before I could order a glass of wine. This experience gave me the basis of what was to come in the following years. I owe a lot to the patient Turkish people who taught me well and as you can imagine I still have difficulty in keeping my hands by my sides because this was the only form of communication I had during the early stages of my fashion years. I also tend to talk loudly when I get excited about something, for some reason I believed the louder I spoke one day they would understand me!

Q: Who were your influences personally and professionally?

A: Professionally, I want to say the biggest influence over my career is probably Coco Chanel, she was a chic, sophisticated lady who never let the outside world get to her, she believed in what she did and ignored those that doubted her. I learned that lesson from her, one of her most famous quotations stands out for me “Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.”.

Personally, the person that has influenced me the most is my mother, when I was a child I would sit in her closet, with the door closed, in the dark, I would hold her leather handbags, I would caress them, smell the leather and I would dream that I was walking along Bond Street in London carrying one of her bags that they were in fact mine. When I used to leave the closet I would always mumble to the bags… “One day you will be mine”.

But the one person that has kept me going is my son, Steven, He had a rare form of cancer that only hits men, when I got the call from him, there are no words to describe that feeling for a mother and I can’t even begin to tell you what we as a family went through. But today I am so blessed, Thanks be to God that he is now cancer free, for that reason I get up every day and know that whatever is thrown at me I can get through it.

Q: What is Izzi Bags? Who is your target market, and when people think Izzi Bags what is the image that you want people to see or represent?

A: Izzi bag was created because like most women, I had and still have a great passion for handbags and every single woman I know looks for something different when buying one. I know that when you purchase your first Izzi bag you will come to understand how much love and respect we have put into each and everyone’s creation. As they are all hand crafted using a woven technology, from the finest leather available every single piece in the collection becomes slightly individual. My target market? Well, my answer to anyone that ask’s me that question is quite simply this “I had you in mind when I first put my pencil on the sketch pad”.

Q: Where are Izzi Bags currently produced?

Anne Interviews Tim Gunn of Project Runway on the Red Carpet for Ace Awards

A: As my journey in fashion began in Turkey, this is currently where they are made, but we are now working with other manufacturer’s in sampling to try and bring the production closer to home in the USA.

Q: Why is it so important for Fashion to be embraced in smaller markets like Dayton, OH? Why do you think the Midwest in general has gone untapped or overlooked by the Fashion industry?

A: Just because women or men for that matter do not live in Milan, London, Paris or New York should not mean they do not care about fashion and I believe that there are up and coming designers across the world in the smallest of villages who need to be embraced by the industry. I am all for helping, mentoring and speaking out to help these individuals. It does not matter what age you are, look at me I was over 40 before one Izzi bag was ever sold in the market place. I do not think I can generalize and say the “Midwest” has been untapped, I think across the world there are thousands of towns and areas that are in the same boat and it’s about time we opened the doors of opportunity to all.

Q: What were some of the struggles you faced as an emerging designer and what do you consider to be your “Big Break” that took you from being an emerging designer to an established designer?

A: For me the biggest struggle was getting buyers to see me, When I had my samples ready I would go by myself and knock on doors, I would go again and again and again. It was soul destroying when they sent me away. Having worked for a large company that is known worldwide I was suddenly there on my own. I could not afford a branding agent, a publicist or any help. I was the designer, the salesman, the tea maker.

The biggest break for me was when I was nominated and then a finalist at the Shorty Awards in New York. Bare in mind that at the time this happened to me was right at the beginning of twitter and there were only 17 million people on it compared with today 218 million!!!!! There I was a small brand in the final 6, no Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy, No Chanel, No Hermes, no Prada, No Gucci…that in itself was a major achievement and the Wall Street Journal even mentioned me in their post about the event.

The next morning my telephone rang off the hook, I was asked to talk at breakfasts, lunches, dinners about how I used Social Media to build a brand. From there I opened my second company that now teaches, advises and executes social media for small brands, large worldwide brands and celebrities. I really believe that you never know what tomorrow holds. My mother always says when one door closes you must circle the house to see which window is ajar.

Social Media has played a big part in building my brand, it has enabled me to have a world platform, how difficult it was years ago to get your name known on the other side of the world. Now in 140 characters or less you can communicate in a split second with someone 5000 miles away or in your own back yard!

Q: There are so many misconceptions about what the Fashion Industry is or what it represents, if there was one myth about the fashion industry that you could debunk what would it be and why?

Anne interviewing Constance White, former Editor in Chief of Essence Magazine at the Ace Awards.

A: One of the biggest misconceptions about fashion is that it costs a lot to look good…. that is rubbish, you can buy a few staple items and switch them around, add accessories and make the outfit look like a million dollars. These days a lot of the high street brands reel out season after season collections that resemble designer wear. Oscar Wilde once opined that “fashion is a form of ugliness so intolerable that we have to alter it every six months”. I disagree because I have pieces in my closet older than my 28 year old son and they are now called ‘vintage’ and worth more than the pieces I bought last week.

Q: What is the biggest mistake that most people make when trying to get their start in the industry?

A: Everybody thinks they are a designer they think it is so easy to just create a brand and run with it. It takes a lot of dedication, a lot of blood, sweat and tears. It really is not about how much money it takes, it is really about belief. I spent many nights without sleep, worrying would the industry and members of the public like my designs would they believe in me? It is easy to think we can all start our journey as Coach, LVMH or Gucci but in reality you must start small, build your brand and grow.

Anne and Celebrity Stylist Robert Verdi

Q: You’ve had the opportunity to speak one on one with some of Fashion’s most elite designers and personalities(Including Diane Von Furstenberg head of the Council for Fashion Designers of America) , how do you prepare yourself for their interviews and have you ever asked them for their advice or keys to their success? If so what was the best advice you’ve ever received?

A: I remember interviewing Christian Louboutin on the Red Carpet just over a year ago and I have to tell you that nothing could have prepared me for that opportunity. I seriously was like a giggly little school girl, I did not want the moment to pass. Izzi even bought me a pair of shoes to wear for the occasion which cost nearly $1000. I want you to know that was madness but Louboutin was impressed I was wearing them, but to be honest as soon as he passed by I took them off as they were so uncomfortable. I have never asked a celebrity or designer for their advice because I believe we are all in charge of our own destiny.

Q: What are you most excited about in terms of your participation and your role in helping to produce (DE-FI)ance Fashion Week?

A: I am excited for the (DE-FI)ance Fashion Week mainly as it is my chance to help you make a mark on the world’s fashion stage, I am really looking forward to being able to show that it does not matter how old you are, from what background you come from, you can achieve what you want with a little determination. I want to be able to convey my message to the young and old alike it is never too late and you are never too old to make it in life. I am really excited to walk on the runway in the Stylish Mom Show with my son a cancer survivor and I am really blessed that God spared him. He is an inspiration to all of us. Seeing Izzi bags on the runway will reduce me to tears, here I go again!

Q: What advice do you have for emerging designers ready to make their mark in the industry?

A: I have only two things to say to them: Believe in what you do and grow skin as thick as an elephant you are going to need it.

You can find out more information about Anne and Izzi bags by following her on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/izzibag‎ , http://blog.izzibag.com , and of course meet her in person during (DE-FI)ance Fashion Week! For more on the Dayton Emerging Fashion Incubator (DE-FI) LLC visit our website at http://www.daytonemergingfashionincubator.com or text “DEFI” to 55469. Tickets for (DE-FI)ance Fashion Week go on sale on March 8, 2014 at Salon J Ladner, American Pi, and Beaute Box. Casting Calls for models, designers, and volunteers take place on March 8, 2014 from 12p-2p at the St. Clair Lofts located at 35 S. St. Clair St., Dayton, OH 45402 right next to Salon J Ladner and American Pi.

Victoria’s 2014-2015 season offers ‘Billy,’ ‘Joseph,’ ‘Mormon’ & More

February 14, 2014 By Russell Florence, Jr. 1 Comment

Cast members of “The Book of Mormon”
Photo by Joan Marcus

The Victoria Theatre Association combines recognizable titles with fresher fare for a 2014-2015 season absolutely bound to please unlike any other lineup from the organization in recent memory.
The Premier Health Broadway Series, Projects Unlimited Variety Series, Star Attractions and PNC Family Series were announced Thursday, Feb. 13 in the Wintergarden of the Schuster Center. Emceed by Larry Hansgen of WHIO AM/FM, the event incorporated business and community leaders, media personalities and Victoria subscribers in addition to Victoria donors and friends. Attractive promotional banners and an assortment of entertaining production snippets also accented the breezy ceremony.

Curiously, the Star Attractions can be considered the true headliners, especially 2011’s “The Book of Mormon,” the irreverent, naughty, nine-time Tony-winning joy ride from the creators of “South Park” and “Avenue Q.” The musical, which will only run one week and is sure to quickly sell out, should have jumpstarted the organization’s 2015-2016 lineup (it arrives in August 2015 after all), but kudos to the Victoria for securing such a hot commodity and being willing to push the envelope as never before. Also, Stephen Schwartz’s popular “Wicked” will return to the Schuster Center for the third time and for three weeks. Even so, I’m particularly thrilled for the overdue local premiere of 2010’s “Billy Elliot,” the remarkable 10-time Tony-winning Best Musical based on the outstanding 2000 film of the same name about a young boy’s passion for ballet.

The Broadway Series, always the main attraction, supplies a very promising six-show slate. Gilbert and Sullivan’s “The Pirates of Penzance” is an odd inclusion (a tour has launched in celebration of the show’s 135th anniversary), but be thankful for 2012’s five-time Tony-winning play “Peter and the Starcatcher” (a “Peter Pan” prequel full of brilliant storytelling and stagecraft), 2012’s charming Gershwin outing “Nice Work If You Can Get It,” the tuneful return of 1995’s “Smokey Joe’s Café” (which played the Victoria Theatre during its last engagement well over a decade ago) featuring legendary troupe the Coasters, a new, vocally enticing production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” starring “American Idol” alums/husband and wife Ace Young and Diana DeGarmo, and the Human Race Theatre Company’s local premiere of Christopher Durang’s dysfunctional family comedy “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike,” the 2013 Tony winner for Best Play.

The Variety Series supplies evenings with Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee/singer-songwriter J.D. Souther (ABC’s “Nashville”), mind reader/comedian Eric Dittelman, and the Nobodies of Comedy Tour featuring up-and-coming comedians who have appeared on Comedy Central, “Late Show with David Letterman,” “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno” and “Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson.” The Family Series features Zoot Theatre Company’s production of “The Velveteen Rabbit” in addition to tours of “Pinkalicious: The Musical” and “Robin Hood.”
“Every show and every Season is a leap of faith,” said Victoria and Arts Center Foundation CEO and President Ken Neufeld in a press statement. “Certain shows touch us and inspire us to share the story, the songs and the message with our audience. 2014-2015 will be a season audiences will reconnect with some familiar titles that may surprise them as well as connect with some of the very best work from the contemporary stage for both the Premier Health Broadway Series and Star Attractions.”

Season tickets for the 2014-2015 Broadway Series and Variety Series are on sale now by calling Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630 or visiting online at www.ticketcenterstage.com. Single tickets will go on sale this summer. Single tickets for “The Book of Mormon” and “Wicked” will specifically go on sale in 2015. Additional Star Attractions and Family Series selections as well as the lineups for the Cool Films Series and National Geographic Live! Series will be revealed at a later date.

2014-2015 Premier Health Broadway Series

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Oct. 21-26, 2014 – Schuster Center)

Smokey Joe’s Café (Nov. 11-23, 2014 – Victoria Theatre)

The Pirates of Penzance (Jan. 20-25, 2015 – Schuster Center)

Nice Work If You Can Get It (Feb. 10-15, 2015 – Schuster Center)

Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike (March 10-22, 2015 – Victoria Theatre)

Peter and the Starcatcher (June 9-14, 2015 – Schuster Center)

2014-2015 Star Attractions
Billy Elliot: The Musical (Nov. 28-30, 2014 – Schuster Center)

Wicked (Apr. 29-May 17, 2015 – Schuster Center)

The Book of Mormon (Aug. 18-23, 2015 – Schuster Center)

2014-2015 Projects Unlimited Variety Series

Singer/songwriter J.D. Souther (Oct. 10, 2014 – Victoria Theatre)

Mind reader/comedian Eric Dittelman (Feb. 6, 2015 – Victoria Theatre)

The Nobodies of Comedy Tour (Apr. 10, 2015 – Victoria Theatre)

2014-2015 PNC Family Series

The Velveteen Rabbit (Dec. 6, 2014 – Victoria Theatre)

Pinkalicious (Feb. 2, 2015 – Victoria Theatre)

Robin Hood (May 2, 2015 – Victoria Theatre)

For more information, call Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630 or visit www.ticketcenterstage.com or www.victoriaheatre.com

The Dayton Sharks Professional Indoor Football Team Home Opener

February 14, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

The Dayton Sharks Professional Indoor Football Team will Honor The Mobley Family at its Home Opener on Saturday, February 15th @ 7:30pm Vs the Detroit Thunder at Hara Arena. You may remember that Mr. Mobley, a Kettering man, lost his wife, two children and father-in-law to a house fire on December 12th.

The Dayton Sharks are donating 10% of ALL Season Ticket Sales and Box Office Sales from our Home Opener to benefit a college fund for Mr. Mobley’s two surviving children. We are asking the entire City of Dayton and surrounding areas to help us “sell out” Hara Arena in support of this most important cause. With your help, we will present Mr. Mobley with our donation at the end of the game in support of his two surviving children’s education.

In addition, the first 100 Kids under age 12 will have FREE ADMISSION to our home opener! Also, every fan that brings a receipt of any of amount from Walmart, Kroger, McDonald’s, or Dave & Busters will be admitted for only $10. Each fan will also receive $5 in Dayton Sharks Bucks to be redeemed on the purchase of Dayton Sharks Fan Apparel and merchandise. Fans must visit the Frontier Communications booth to pick up their $5 Sharks Bucks.

Five for Drinking…Chocolate

February 13, 2014 By Brian Petro Leave a Comment

So much delicious, delicious chocolate…

Pink and red hearts, dinner, flowers, cards…all of the trappings of the perfect Valentine’s Day. The only thing that is missing is the chocolate. Last year, people bought 48 million pounds of chocolate, spending somewhere around $1.6 billion dollars on the sweet confection. Local favorites like Esther Price, Winan’s, Pure Madness, and Signature Confections look forward to this holiday, as it is the third largest holiday for buying chocolate of the year.

It is a little hard to believe that chocolate candy has only been around for 400 years.

Chocolate, while having a history that reaches back to the Aztecs, was enjoyed mostly as a bitter beverage by the ancient people of Mexico. It was not until the Spanish got a hold of it that it gained its sweet characteristics by adding milk, sugar, and a little cinnamon. That is what Europe fell in love with. Chocolate candies were made, but not common on incredibly good. The process to turn cocoa into the chocolate we enjoy by the heart shaped box was developed by John and Richard Cadbury (yes, of the crème egg fame) in the late 19^th century.

That box of chocolate you have? Why not add a nice cocktail to it? Here are five options for you to explore:

Alexander

1 oz. gin
1 oz. crème de cocoa
1 oz. light cream

Pour all of the ingredients into a mixing glass with ice. Shake well, then strain into a rocks glass.

The Alexander (and its cousin the Brandy Alexander) is a popular classic cocktail, first seen in 1915 in Recipes for Mixed Drinks by Hugo Ensslin. Gin was hugely popular at the time, and this delightful mixture uses the sweet chocolate and cream to balance the spices in the gin.

Candy is dandy, but liquor is quicker…

Oaxaca Chakas

4 oz. tequila
1.25 oz. agave nectar
2 cups whole milk
1/4 cup good-quality unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cinnamon stick
A pinch of salt
1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips

In a medium saucepan, heat milk with cocoa powder, cinnamon stick, agave nectar and salt, whisking constantly until it comes to a full boil. Remove from heat and add the chocolate, whisking gently until it’s completely melted. Remove cinnamon stick. Whisk until smooth. Spilt the tequila between two mugs, then fill the mugs with the chocolate mixture. Garnish it with whip cream and enjoy.

Tequila and chocolate have very similar histories; both started out as native drinks in Mexico, and both were altered by the Spaniards using European technology to better reflect European tastes. This is a rich and spicy treat perfect to warm up with on a cold night. Or to make with someone special.

Chocolate Strawberry Martini

1 oz. vanilla vodka
1 oz. strawberry liqueur
1 oz. chocolate liqueur
Cocoa powder, for garnish

Set a cocktail glass into the refrigerator to chill. Pour all of the ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice and shake briefly. Spread the cocoa powder on a small plate. Moisten the rim of the glass, and gently run the rim through the powder. Pour the mixture into the chilled cocktail glass and enjoy.

This is a cocktail with many, many, many variations, from the very simple to the incredibly complex. I would suggest Godiva Chocolate Liqueur and strawberry schnapps for an incredible flavor and mouth feel.

Cocoa during the roasting and grinding process.

From Russia with Love

1/2 ounce Dark Godiva Chocolate Liqueur
1/2 ounce raspberry liqueur
Champagne
Coco nibs, for garnish, optional

In a Champagne flute, pour the Godiva and the raspberry liqueur (Chambord is a great choice). Top with chilled Champagne. Sprinkle on a couple of nibs if you like.

What is Valentine’s Day without a little something special? Champagne is perfect for any celebration, and adding a little chocolate and raspberry can only enhance the enjoyment. It is an original from the famous Russian Tea Room in New York.

Liquid Snickers

1 oz. dark creme de cacao
1/2 oz. Irish cream
1/2 oz. Frangelico® hazelnut liqueur
1/2 oz. light cream
Pour creme de cacao, irish cream and frangelico liqueur over ice cubes in an old-fashioned glass. Top with light cream, stir and serve.

Sometimes you don’t want fancy chocolate. You want something comforting, nutty, and satisfying.

Author Karl Petzke once commented that “Chocolate symbolizes, as does no other food, luxury, comfort, sensuality, gratification, and love.” Is there a better sentiment to describe this Valentine’s Day staple? Cheers!

2014 Dayton Does Dayton: 5 Bands To Check Out During Weekend Festival

February 13, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

I don’t need to tell you about the amount of great music that has come and gone in Dayton. Throughout the years, we have seen some of the most innovative, daring, and extraordinary artists and bands originating from the Gem City. It comes as no surprise to many when we see the acts go on and become more than just local idols. We take pride in knowing that we were the first to see what these bands and artists were capable of. Each of their shows would fill an entire bar up. Sure it is hard to move around, but you knew that you were in for a night that would be epic. You are with your friends, your lovers, your fellow fans. People who couldn’t get into the show don’t sweat it. They just light up a cigarette, take a puff, exhale and listen to the music outside while they lean on the walls outside.

Dayton Does Dayton pays homage to that vision.

On February 14^th, Dayton Does Dayton will be kicking off its 4^th year. Previously the show was located at Canal Street Tavern. This year, the music festival will be at another legendary location, Gilly’s. 21 bands and artists will bring their own unique style to other Dayton bands that have influenced them over the years, along with their own music.

Every act that performs will be certain to entertain. Here are 5 bands that you should be paying a little more attention to during the two day experience:

Paige Beller

Paige Beller isn’t a stranger to most of the folks who have caught a local show. Being the lead singer of the punk band Jasper The Colossal has cemented her and the band as a can’t miss watch. Don’t believe me?! Ask anyone that saw the set they performed at this past year’s Sideshow at the Yellow Cab building. Beller is also involved with a couple other side projects : she is the drummer with the alt-punk trio Mayliner, and she is also lead for Paige and the Belairs. What a lot of people don’t realize is that Beller is an amazing solo singer. Her voice is remarkable and will the people that come to the show speechless. The festival this weekend will give everyone more reason to not only catch Beller’s solo stuff more, but will scurrying around trying to get ahold of her other projects.

The Leap Years

The Leap Years haven’t been together as a band for too long (almost a year). All the members are currently attending the University of Dayton, and that is where they all met. The band’s currently finished working on their first EP in Michigan titled Just Some Things, and hope to have it released in the near future. Each member of the group brings a different element that perfectly blends with the other. The Leap Years have taken their fellow students by storm with their performances at the café/art center ArtStreet and other areas on campus. With that being said, the band is now ready to expand and start imprinting their sound onto the Dayton music scene. The pop/alternative band will be playing covers and originals that are filled with airy guitar and violin play along with catchy and meaningful lyrics.

Kevin Heider & the Guys

In 2008, Kevin Heider was selected by singer/songwriter Ingrid Michaelson as the winner of Gibson’s “The Way I Am Contest” on the website MusicNation.com. By winning the contest, Heider has had original compositions in radio jingles, film documentaries, theatrical productions, television shows, and commercials. He also traveled around the world, from Europe to New Zealand. He recently moved back to his hometown of Dayton after living in the Baltimore/Washington, D.C. area for the past couple of years. His recent double album, The Spark, was released back in March of 2013. Heider’s indie-folk/rock sound is solid and is paired with lyrics that dive into what being a human is all about. From the highs and lows, the way we think, the situations we go through-Heider takes us all through that journey with his own experiences and stories in his songs. For Dayton Does Dayton, Heider will be performing with his band. Heider and his merry men will be entertaining the audience with an energetic set filled with great music.

Gem City

Formally known as Customer Service and the Gem City Horns, the band decided to change to their name, but thankfully, they didn’t change their music. The eight member band will perform a set that will be jam-packed, high-energy music. Gem City released their first EP Highlights in 2013. You will get a little bit of everything with this band, including influences of rock, jazz, and funk. They’ve been able to open for and perform with singer/songwriter Joe Pug, rapper Lupe Fiasco, and Dayton’s own popular jam band The Werks. Gem City also had the great pleasure of being part of the Downtown Dayton Revival Festival. No stage is too big or too small for these musicians. As long as they are able to perform somewhere, they couldn’t be any happier.

The Repeating Arms

The Repeating Arms are continuing to astound and amaze. In 2013, the band released its long awaited full length LP Blackberry Winter, and in January of this year, they hosted their own festival at the Yellow Cab building, the first Winterfolk Fest, which featured another Dayton Does Dayton band, Cinder Home. The Repeating Arms possess a fantastic richness of Southern bluegrass in their music, along with smooth deep vocals from the lead singer Harold Hensley. Max Nunery on banjo, Chip Pritchard on upright bass, and Brian Spirk on mandolin make up the rest of this stunning band. The Repeating Arms are on the threshold of really becoming one of the premiere bands in Dayton.

The fourth annual Dayton Does Dayton will showcasing these 5 bands, along with 16 other artists and bands this weekend, February 14^th and 15^th. Each band will have 30-34 minute sets, with an approximately ten minute wait in between each band/performer. The festival takes place at Gillys, located on 132 S. Jefferson Street. Show times for both nights will be at 8pm, with $7 cover.

To read more about the event and its organizer, Louie Wood Jr., make sure check out Art Jipson’s piece “Annual Music Festival Returns to Dayton: An Interview With Dayton Does Dayton’s Louie Wood Jr.”

Suggestions For Celebrating Valentine’s Day

February 12, 2014 By Lisa Grigsby Leave a Comment

If you are part of a couple- there is a certain expectation that comes on February 14th- Valentine’s Day. Whether or not we’ll admit it, we all like to feel appreciated by our loved one on that day. It doesn’t have to be traditional, flowers and chocolates aren’t the only way to celebrate, here are a few ideas for you to share the love on Valentine’s weekend in the Dayton region.

Send a Signing Valentine– Nothing says ‘ I love you’ like a song from a Barbershop Quartet. It’s a valentine they’ll never forget!
Package includes two songs, a card, a rose, and a small box of candy. February 13th – 15th, 2014. Orders are accepted through Feb 14th. $40

The Adventure Summit
This FREE 2 day event features inspiring presentations about cycling, outdoor skills, culture and experiences, featuring world class adventurer Dave Cornthwaite. Visitors can get active in bouldering and triathlon competitions, as well as paddlesports and fitness programs.

Full Moon Hike
Join the Glen Helen Ranger for an excursion beneath the Snow Moon. This moderately intense hike departs from our Yellow Springs parking lot at State Route 343, 8-9pm

Valentines Under The Stars
Enjoy a romantic evening under the stars of the Caryl D. Philips Space Theater, where the latest in digital planetarium technology will accompany great love songs and state of the art special effects. Each couple receives and a beautiful flower. $25/couple for each show, age 18 and older.

Dinner & A Show
For $75.00 per couple, you will enjoy the musical see the hit musical ‘I love you, You’re Perfect, Now Change’ performed by Playhouse South a communitytheater and have a three course meal. Cash bar available, Feb 14 & Feb 15 at Holiday Inn Express Dayton South.

Couples, Comedy & Cupcakes
The evening includes a cupcake reception from 7:30–8:30 followed by a 8:30–10 p.m. showtime with Anthony Griffin. He presents a unique outlook on life with non-offensive humor coupled with the ability to bring his characters to life. See Anthony on The Tonight Show, HBO and Comedy Central. Or better yet, see him LIVE at SouthBrook!. Cost is $10 per ticket if registered Feb. 13 or before. On Feb. 14, tickets will be $15 online or at the door

Couples Spa Package
Share a day of pampering that can include 60 minute massages, facials, manicures, pedicures and a spa lunch at either the Downtown or Centerville Square One Salon & Spa.

Skate with Your Sweetheart
Head to RiverScape MetroPark during Valentine’s weekend! During regular Ice Rink Hours from Friday, February 14, through Sunday, February 16, you can purchase the ‘Sweetheart Deal’ and get two rink admissions with skate rental, plus two cups of hot chocolate and a Parker the Penguin plush for only $22!

Annual Women’s Valentines Dance
The Biggest Lesbian Party of The Year! It will be held at the Dayton Women’s Club, 225 N. Ludlow Street, Dayton. Great music and raffle prizes, cost $15.00 or $10.00 for LBGT center members. All tickets sold in cash at the door.

Old School R & B
Their performances transport audiences tothe 60s and 70s, serving up songs made well-known by the Temptations, the Stylistics, and the Delfonics. Combined with their backup band, the Touchups, they have opened for such performers as the Whispers, the Manhattans, and the Floaters. Sun, Feb 16th 7pm at Gilly’s

Train Ride & Dinner
Departing Friday and Saturday on Valentine’s weekend, take a nostalgic train ride from historic Lebanon to the Brazenhead Irish Pub in Mason. Once you arrive, you and your sweetie can take pleasure in an Irish ambiance with excellent service and a delicious all you can eat buffet. Be adventurous by trying one of Brazenhead’s 30 rotating draft beers, including a great selection of Irish beers! After a night of fun at the Pub, you can reboard the train for a relaxing ride back to Lebanon.

Valentine’s Dinner for 2
El Meson – 3 course Dinner $49.95
Golden Jersey Inn – steak dinner $32.96
Whiskey Barrel – beer & Pizza for 2 $20

Dayton is for Lovers – A Valentine’s Day Dance
his Valentine’s Day, spend a romantic evening dancing the night away to some funk, reggae and rock ‘n’ roll rhythms featuring music from Jah Soul, Lost on Iddings and DJ Jay Madewell at the ‘Old’ Yellow Cab Building. BYOB.

Traditional Gifts with an Extra Benefit
Stop in Winans Dayton this week and pick up some chocolate covered strawberries. Mention Artemis Center and they will donate 20% of your purchase to support Artemis.

Order your Valentine’s Day flowers from The Flower Shoppe and 10% will be donated to Artemis Center to help victims of domestic violence.

For even more ideas on how to share your love this Valentines weekend check the DMM Calendar!

2014 Top 25 Women to Watch Announced

February 10, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Women in Business Networking(WiBN) is a Miami Valley based organization in which women in business encourage one another in professional growth and success. Their members are a mix of female entrepreneurs, corporate leaders and key players in business to business services as well as the non-profit environment.

They host a monthly Lunch & Learn event at the Dayton Racquet Club, as well as Hot Topics Koffee Talk programs to encourage members to enhance their networking abilities, foster meaningful partnerships with others, and help one another to grow and prosper. Founder Jeanne Porter just recently announced that WiBN has formed a partnership with the Better Business Bureau.

In 2009 Women in Business Networking began a tradition of spotlighting 25 women making a difference in our community. These women are being recognized for their leadership, community service and professional achievements. The initial class was then asked to nominate the next class and so on. The 2014 class of Women To Watch has just been announced and we invite you to watch them! For bio’s and more information on these women, check the WiBN website.

You can help celebrate these ladies at the 5th Annual Top 25 Women to Watch Gala on Sat, March 8th at Country Club of the North.

John Legend To Return to Springfield For Hometown Concert

February 8, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Nine-time Grammy winner and Springfield native John Legend will perform a live show on the campus of Clark State Community College March 1 in support of a nonprofit agency that’s working to make a positive impact on Springfield’s youth with a pre-concert college fair.

The Be About It Movement celebrates fathers and seeks to motivate them to step up and be involved in their kids’ lives. The agency seeks to leverage the combined strength of all of Springfield’s social agencies to improve the community and support families throughout the region.

The college fair will be held Saturday, March 1, at the Clark State Performing Arts Center at 300 Fountain Ave. in Springfield from 4 to 6 p.m. Families and students from all backgrounds and ages will benefit from the fairs participants and the resources they share.

The concert will be held in the same building from 7 to 9 p.m. Doors will open at 6:30. The show will feature local artists, including Vaughn Anthony, and will close with a performance by Legend.

Tickets cost $20 and can be purchased at the Clark State Box Office Tuesday–Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at (937) 328-3874.

The college fair/concert is the third Be About It Movement event since December 2012. Anthony, John Legend’s brother, is the founder of the nonprofit and is organizing the event.

Spend Father’s Day With Bill Cosby!

February 7, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

The last time Bill Cosby was in Dayton was 2003, when he was the last act to play at Memorial Hall, before they mothballed it. Now 11 years later, one of America’s most beloved comedians of all time, Cosby, whose comedy transcends age, gender and cultural barriers, will return to town to play the Benjamin & Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center, Sunday, June 15 at 7 pm. Cosby has captivated generations of fans with his comedy routines, iconic albums and best-selling books, including “Fatherhood,” “Time Flies” and his current bestseller, “I Didn’t Ask to Be Born, (But I’m Glad I Was.)”

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jNXqB0K58QQ’]

Bill Cosby broke television’s racial barrier with “I Spy,” becoming the first African American to co-star on a television series while winning three consecutive Emmys^©. He created and produced the Emmy^©-winning cartoon “Fat Albert” and the “Cosby Kids,” which began airing in the 1970s and was made into a film in 2004. The show, based upon Cosby’s childhood in Philadelphia, was designed to educate and entertain.

The former Navy serviceman’s illustrious list of accomplishments includes roles on the children’s educational show “Electric Company” and creating and producing the Emmy^© award winning “Little Bill,” which is based on his bestselling book series. Cosby has received the Kennedy Center Honors, the Presidential Medal of Freedom (America’s highest civilian honor), the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor and the Marian Anderson Award. Among his many awards for his stand-up comedy albums are five Grammy^© Awards, eight Gold and five Platinum records.

Perhaps Cosby’s greatest contribution to American entertainment and culture is “The Cosby Show,” about a close-knit, upper class black family. Cosby said his intent was to portray an American family. Time magazine called the show “an encouraging sign of maturity in matters of race.” “The Cosby Show” dominated the No. 1 spot for years, earning nearly unanimous critical praise. Life magazine described the program as “a gentle, whimsical, warmhearted” show whose “delicious ordinariness of its pleasures and tribulations has given millions a fresh, laughter-splashed perspective on their own domestic lives.”

Don’t miss the iconic Bill Cosby at the Schuster Center, on his Comedy Central “Far From Finished Tour“, Sunday, June 15 at 7 pm! Tickets go on sale Feb. 14, and start at just $39.25. Ticket are available the Ticket Center Stage Box Office, located in the Wintergarden of the Schuster Center or by phone at 937-228-3630, 888-228-3630 and online at www.ticketcenterstage.com.

Shampoo	Deodorant	Dental hygiene products	Razors
Feminine hygiene products	Baby wipes	Shaving cream	Body soap
Hair brushes/Combs	Band-aids	Diapers	Toilet paper
Dishwashing liquid	Laundry detergent