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‘Seussical’ Review – Muse Machine – Oh, What a Circus!

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The circus has come to the Victoria Theatre!
The absolutely delightful centerpiece of the Muse Machine’s breezy production of Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens’ “Seussical,” the arts education organization’s 30th annual student musical, is “The Circus McGurkus,” a fantastic Act 2 display of fun, mystery and whimsy. Developed by the Muse artistic team in collaboration with Fred Garbo of “Sesame Street” and “The Inflatable Theater Company,” the vibrant number departs its accustomed status as a merely serviceable transition to fluidly emerge as a clever and imaginative playground deserving of an encore. Inflatable objects, plate spinning, hula hoops, rings, juggling, acrobatics, somersaults, cartwheels, unicycles, and more are impressively handled by the highly entertaining cast from various schools across the Miami Valley.

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The cast of the Muse Machine’s production of “Seussical” in rehearsal (Photo by Daniel Rader)

Elsewhere, the material isn’t executed with sharp consistency, especially evident when the aforementioned centerpiece suddenly catapults the show’s momentum, but director Joe Deer still coaxes admirable performances from his principals. The naturally endearing William Peters is the personification of kindness, loyalty and perseverance as the genuinely genial Horton the Elephant, who vows to rescue the citizens of Whoville despite overwhelming ridicule from his peers. Mark Howard, a radiant tenor, doesn’t miss a beat as his engaging portrayal of JoJo reveals a confident stage presence far beyond his years. The gangly, playful Sean Cheatwood effortlessly adopts various animated personas as the kooky Cat in the Hat. Dynamic vocalist Jennifer Clemens brings wonderful R&B sass to her role as the Sour Kangaroo. Gwyn Burton, an adorable Gertrude McFuzz, and the bubbly Christine Fiala, an appropriately flashy and vain Mayzie LaBird, are equally appealing. David Emery and Sarah Martin are well-matched as Mayor of Whoville and Mrs. Mayor. The intimidating John Neff commands attention and incites fear as the best General Genghis Kahn Schmitz I have seen. The dastardly Wickersham Brothers, uniquely dressed as street toughs, are cohesively comprised of Kyle Bates, Joel Daniel (also the humorous Grinch), James Fields, Benjamin Green and Christian Johnson. Jeremy Cleary (Vlad Vladikoff), Rollie Fisk (Judge Yertle the Turtle), Cayla Destefani (Bird Girl), Cecily Dowd (Bird Girl), Anna Hlinomaz (Bird Girl), Rachael Horner (Bird Girl), Clare Kneblik (Bird Girl), Callia Tellez (Bird Girl) and Rachel Woeste (Bird Girl) are noteworthy.
Additionally, Lula Elzy’s seemingly non-stop choreography is cute and colorful, particularly the uplifting opening number “Oh, The Thinks You Can Think!” as well as “It’s Possible” and the energetic finale. Music director Timothy Olt leads a strong, steady orchestra. Set designer J. Branson’s large backdrops capture the spirit of the Dr. Seuss books. Many costumes sparkle with personality thanks to coordinators Lyn Baudendistel, Robin Brown, Patty Peters and Alisa Vukasinovich. John Rensel’s lighting design expertly accents varying moods and locales. David Sherman’s sound design specifically impacts during JoJo’s Act 2 military departure, but repeatedly missed cues hindered last night’s performance.
Bookended by a sprinkle of Hollywood star power and an inspired nod to a legendary rock band, “Seussical” awakens the child in all of us with an exuberant charm typifying the Muse pedigree. Step right up!

 

“Seussical” continues through Jan. 19 at the Victoria Theatre, 138 N. Main St., Dayton. You can still catch performancestonight at  8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Act One: 55 minutes; Act Two: 40 minutes. Tickets are $25-$59. For tickets or more information, call Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630 or visit www.ticketcenterstage.com.

 

 

 

 

Warped Wing Brewing Company Opens Saturday at Noon!

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1544472_582719391807546_1608854500_n-1The industrial style tasting room, which will seat about 80, will be open from noon to 10pm this Saturday and Sunday noon to 6pm.  Guests can sample the various beer offerings from Warped Wing while appreciating views of the downtown skyline or the cathedral of stainless steel. If you are on-the-go, they will sell growlers, package beer and kegs to share with friends off-site. They  will also offer a rotating food menu from our tavern and restaurant friends in and around the Oregon District. Warped Wing is working closely with those establishments to select food items that will pair well with there beer offerings. 

Tasting hours will  be:
Wed thru Fri 4-10pm, Sat 12-10pm and Sun 12-6pm.

The new brewery is located at 26 Wyandot Street, former site of the Buckeye Brass & Iron Foundry, circa 1911.  Warped Wing will brew and distribute its draught and canned beers to restaurants, taverns, and retailers throughout Dayton and surrounding markets.

Brewmaster John Haggerty, who was the Head Brewer of New Holland, brings two decades of commercial brewing expertise to WWBC. His career in brewing has spanned small and large breweries in the U.S. Haggerty states “As far as brewing philosophy goes we are essentially going to make well-balanced beers that show off the various ingredients when appropriate (i.e. hoppy when it is supposed to be hoppy and malty when it is supposed to be malty, etc., etc.) Additionally, we will follow sound production theory but will take liberties and break rules regarding process and recipe formulation when it makes sense and is appropriate to do so.”

Co-owner Joe Waizmann, best know for his annual AleFest, says their strategy from the beginning has been  “all-in.”  Warped Wing Whas already installed a canning line and will release their first production beer in a 4-pack of 16-oz cans. According to Waizmann, “the cans are a nod to the Dayton-invented pop-top cans as well as a way for their smaller customers with limited draught space to be able to deliver a true pint experience to their customers. Given all of the benefits that canning brings to the beer experience this one makes all kinds of sense.”

The company is operated by co-founders Joe Waizmann, John Haggerty, Nick Bowman and Mike Stover, pictured left to right here.  “Our passion for craft beer coupled with our extensive industry experience will bring a unique approach to the local beer scene,” the co-founders said in a release. “We also share enthusiasm for local community development and are committed to bringing back well-crafted beers that Daytonians and Ohioans can embrace.”

Cheers to the 8th local brewery to call the Dayton region home!

‘The Subject Was Roses’ Review – Dayton Theatre Guild –Bruised But Not Broken

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roses

Angela Riley, Alexander Chilton (center) and Geoff Burkman in the Dayton Theatre Guild’s production of “The Subject Was Roses” (contributed photo)

In the Dayton Theatre Guild’s commendable production of Frank D. Gilroy’s 1965 Tony and Pulitzer Prize-winning World War II-era drama “The Subject Was Roses,” the Cleary family of Bronx, New York is as engrossing, heartbreaking and dysfunctional as ever.

 
Set over the course of a May weekend in 1946, “Roses” centers on the rocky homecoming of Army serviceman Timmy (Alexander Chilton), who shocks his hardnosed dad John (Geoff Burkman) and doting mom Nettie (Angela Riley) with unexpected habits and beliefs. In fact, much to his parents’ dismay, Timmy isn’t exactly the guileless underachiever who walked out the door with the mission of keeping his country safe and strong. Predictably, war has made him question who he is and what his purpose in life should be. His decision to abandon his faith absolutely infuriates John, a staunch Catholic. Interestingly, Nettie doesn’t necessarily mind Timmy’s agonistic views. She’s more concerned with his drinking and boorish language. But as the wonderfully rich and relatable layers of these troubled, unhappy characters are delicately peeled by director Marcia C. Nowik’s compatible cast, “Roses” fittingly blossoms as a timeless portrait of change and misunderstanding within a wounded home that can only be healed by love.

 
The excellently authentic and persnickety Burkman embodies the temperamental John, a hard-working, practically uneducated product of the World War I generation, with an easily irritated and frustrated disposition properly masking his inability to communicate. He’s also astute at being harsh without seeming heartless. John scolds Timmy numerous times, but genuine concern dwells amid the sparks. In her firm Guild debut, Riley terrifically expresses the agony, doubt, hurt and regret that has damaged Nettie’s relationship with John, who has been unfaithful. Late in Act 2, with Chilton seated on the floor transfixed on her every word, she truly shines while pensively delivering Nettie’s absorbing monologue detailing her modest upbringing and the chance encounter with John that changed her life for good and bad. Chilton, a knockout last season as Jerry in the University of Dayton’s production of “Zoo Story,” startles at the outset with an oddly calculated demeanor, but his actions are an intriguing maneuver to suggest something is uncomfortably amiss inside Timmy’s world. Bolstered by Burkman and Riley’s ample support, Chilton credibly navigates Timmy’s tender, combative and soul-searching journey with a clear understanding that faults, past or present, cannot be easily remedied.
Additionally, Blake Senseman provides another attractively eye-catching set fashioned here in a quaint, homey sensibility. Costumer Patrick Allyn Hayes counters with fine period attire, especially for Riley. Nick Vanderpool’s lighting design, K.L. Storer’s sound design and Fred Blumenthal’s properties are equally noteworthy attributes of this worthwhile offering.


“The Subject Was Roses” continues through Jan. 26 at the Dayton Theatre Guild, 430 Wayne Ave., Dayton. Performances are Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 5 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. Act One: 50 minutes; Act Two: 50 minutes. Tickets are $18 for adults, $16 for seniors and $11 for students.  For tickets or more information, call (937) 278-5993 or visit online at www.daytontheatreguild.org

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The 2014 Food Adventure GUIDE to Dayton’s Fish Frys

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Fish fry season is upon us, so look no further than Dayton Most Metro.
For the schedule of local fish frys click here.

The Food Adventure Crew never does anything half baked (or fried in this instance).

Food Adventures has got you covered with a full breakdown of every Catholic Fish Fry in the Miami Valley, 16 of them in all !! No cut and paste event info here, we walk the walk, and chowed down at every event!

You know the drill, all-you-can-eat fish dinners, beer, condiment tables, silent auctions, raffle tickets and casino games. So which ones are the best ??

Answer: They all have their appeal, and special draw, but FOUR of them really stood out.

Ladies and Gentlemen, here are the “SWEET SIXTEEN,” our guide to Dayton’s 2014 Catholic Fish Frys:

Our Lady of the Rosary, Our Favorite Fish Fry

Food Adventures jumps at any chance to support Dayton causes, and with Big Ragu being Catholic, we bought tickets to every fish fry in town. We will list our favorites aka the “FANTASTIC FOUR FISH FRYS”, then list the others in random order and what makes each fish fry special.

THE FANTASTIC FOUR FISH FRYS:

1) OUR LADY OF THE ROSARY–22 Notre Dame Ave.

This one was the grand daddy of them all and our favorite fish fry. For the past 52 years they have held fish frys, making this probably the oldest one in Dayton, This church holds fish frys from Sept – February before the Lenten season. The staff is wonderful and our friend Amy even took us on a tour of the church. A friendly cook named Joseph makes all of the delicous, homemade desserts himself. We know because we tried them all. This church has a heavy influence of Polish, Lithuainian, Hungarian, and German parishioners. These events have a loyal following of regulars like our pal Ron who drove all the way from Wilmington, Ohio to attend. The Monte Carlo was fun and food was great. We especially like the fact that the draft beer is unlimited in the 12 dollar price, along with fresh sausages, Icelandic cod. In our book, this fish fry is Dayton’s best.

Holy Trinity, Great Hospitality and Delicious Food

 

2) HOLY TRINITY CHURCH – 272 Bainbridge St.

This was a fish fry where everyone seemed to know each other. The crowd was small, but friendly and tight knit. The food was absolutely amazing. The cod was cooked to perfection and hand cut on site. One of the attractions is they use the Old Focke’s Meats recipe for Waldorf sausages. We enjoyed the old church located near the Oregon District, downtown. One unique part of this event is that this church offered an alcohol free family fish fry from 4pm-5:30pm for kids, then had the adult party after. Three beer tickets are given with paid admission. The atmosphere, great food and hospitality makes this one of the best fish frys in the Miami Valley.

 

Vic Woeste, 87 year old icon of St Mary’s Church

3) ST MARY CATHOLIC CHURCH: 310 Allen St.
Here we find the best story told at a fish fry. We sat near 87 year old Vic Woeste, an icon of the St Mary’s community who has been dealing casino games at the fish frys for the past 36 years. His entire family is involved in the church down to 3 generations. He told us he remembered a fish fry in 1960 where funds were used to buy the nuns a Ford Fairlane car who lived in the convent across the street. Oh the memories! Vic is looking forward to his 70th class reunion at Chaminade this year. He said it will be held in a telephone booth, since not many classmates are left. Vic also said he was baptized and married at St Mary’s. He recalls Father Ken Henz telling parishoners decades ago that he hatches, matches and dispatches loyal parishoners. Vic was a great man to talk to, indeed. This church group is so charitable that even the volunteers buy tickets as they enter. to help raise money for the boiler fund, beers were sold for 25cents and an extra 1 dollar donation got you a dessert. Again this event saw over 3 generations working the fish fry and over 300lbs of fish cooked and eaten.

 

4) CORPUS CHRISTI CHURCH – 527 Forest Ave.

The Corpus Christi Fryers Charitable Organization

This event was another fantastic fish fry for $15. It included all you want food and draft beer, we like those rules. The crowd was very friendly and it was obvious that many in attendance were close friends. This fish fry offered a healthy alternative of baked fish, along with the fried fish choices. The bustling atmosphere included 3 different dining areas. This particular fish fry has been going on for 25 years. The event is partially run by the “Corpus Christi Fryers.” They are a charitable group that donates time, manpower and money into running this event to help the church’s cause. The fish fry workers could not have been nicer, and the food was terrific. It was great to see a diverse group from all walks of life coming together for a good cause.

St Peter’s offered Onion Rings and Hot Dogs on their Saturday night Fish Fry

Here are the rest in random order, and what we loved about each Fish Fry!
ST PETER’S CHURCH – 6161 Chambersburg Rd

This event was $15 at door, and was packed. The line wrapped around the gym, but the wait was worth it. The food was delicious and the offerings were not only beer battered codfish, but onion rings, chicken wings, and huge hot dogs. What was even more amazing, is that one or two women seemed to be stocking the whole table for the hundreds of hungry people. The casino area featured unique games such as horse races. We also loved the fact that they offered Yuengling Black and Tan Beer. This was a fun and well attended event. Tip: come early and avoid the huge crowds.

 

The decor at St Charles’ Fish Fry was Beautiful

ST CHARLES BORROMEO – One of the area fish fry’s run by the Hecht family volunteers. The fish was hot and fresh. highlights included the fantastic Saint Patty’s day decor theme. Some people really put some hard work into those decorations. Along with the tasty fish, a few beer tickets were included in the $15 price. Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy beer was available on tap. This fish fry also offered a “pre-event” that was family friendly and where kids were allowed to attend until 6pm. The eating area was offered in the school cafeteria while the casino games were in the gym.

 


Cold Beer at the Carrol Fish Fry

CARROLL HIGH SCHOOL – Located at 4524 Linden Ave

This event was $16 to attend and included 5 beer tickets. The unique thing about this fish fry was the sheer choices of fish. They offered 3 kinds of fish. Choices were regular fried, Cajun fried, or baked fish. There were no fries in sight at this fish fry. Instead menu items included baked beans, cole slaw and potato salad. There was a huge choice of desserts at this event. A couple of long tables were filled with homemade pies, cakes, brownies and more. This event was steady and the environment was immaculately clean.

 

ST LUKE’S CHURCH – 1440 N. Fairfield Rd.

This fish fry was entirely kid friendly. The cost was 9 dollars for adults and $3.50 for children. No alcohol was served. The event was run by the Knights of Columbus a charity organization that benefits local families. The fish that was fried was cod from local distributor Foremost Seafood. There was also no gambling at this event. It was obvious that this fish fry was more about the family experience. They actually hold two fish frys, one in February and on in March. It should also be mentioned that the Ladies Auxillary made all of the desserts which were fantastic!

 

CHAMINADE JULIENNE HIGH SCHOOL – 505 S. Ludlow St.

Holy Angels Fish Fry Volunteers

This fish fry held at the High School, had a pretty good attendance. The fish was great and there were huge sheet cakes and brownies as well. We even saw one of the cooks bring out some nice cupcake pastries. Although a fairly new fish fry, this one is run with efficiency.

 

HOLY ANGELS CHURCH – 1322 Brown Street
This fish fry is in its 12th year. The volunteers Matt, Ruth, Denise, Leila were very friendly and greeted the crowds with a smile. Prices were 15 bucks at door and included soft drinks and all the beer you wanted as well. Get there early for this event, because parking is limited and you may get stuck parking across the other side of State route 48. Delicious haddock was the fried fish served to the hungry visitors. We really loved the fact that the beer was unlimited, and we didn’t have to fool around with drink tickets.

 

ST ALBERT THE GREAT – 104 W. Dorothy Lane


Three Generations of the Hecht/Sierschula Family helping work the St Albert Fish Fry !

This event was $15 advance or $20 at door. They served some tasty, fried Icelandic cod. Like other fish frys, they had a carryout option for 9 bucks. This event had a ton of volunteers, mostly we saw in kitchen. We saw the raw fish being thawed, cut, dredged then deep fried by the Hecht Family, who runs a few of the area fish frys. In fact we saw that there were at least 3 generations of the family at the event. this event, casino earnings and raffle money all benefited the athletics. It helps to buy uniforms and keep students cost to participate as low as possible. We were told that for 40 years this event has been held and many run by the Hecht family. Attendance price included 5 beer tickets.

 

ST ANTHONY’S CHURCH– 830 Bowen St.

The church was celebrating it’s 100th year anniversary in 2013. The fish fry has not been around more than a decade or 2, but the place was packed. The entrance showed off a silent auction area and the casino games. Lines formed to get the fish and the cafeteria served as the eating place. The fish was so fresh and hot, that you had to let your plate cool. the staff was working hard and feeding the hungry event attendees. It was obvious that the workers took pride in this event and made it a fun and friendly atmosphere.

 

ST HENRY’S CHURCH– 6696 N. Springboro Pike

Event was held in the “Father Stretch Center.” The cost at the door was 15 bucks. The head priest Father Tom was greeting the attendees in the dining area. The fish served was large pieces of fried Haddock. The volunteers were friendly and the fish was light and flaky. Some of the better fried fish around was served here. The event also featured a large silent auction area.

 

INCARNATION PARRISH– 55 Williamsburg Ln.

Mounds of Fish Ready for Breading at the Alter Fish Fry

This event gets packed. The crowds are big, so get there early. Like many fish frys they offer a carryout option, but with no discount. There was a large silent auction area, and many signs hung in the gymnasium featuring sponsors of the fish fry. Admission was 15 dollars and the fish served was fried Icelandic cod. Again, we saw some familiar faces of the Hecht family preparing the food for the masses. There is also a large choice of casino games at this well attended Parrish.

 

ALTER HIGH SCHOOL – 940 E. David Rd.

This fish fry draws the biggest crowds of all the area fish frys. Sometimes the line can be an hour wait. Our tip, get there early and plan on making an evening of it. The casino games are crowded, but there are many to choose from. There is even a high limit gambling area! Admission is 15 bucks and comes with 3 beer tickets. they have amped up the event recently by offering some craft beers for sale. This event usually has a huge silent auction, and you may even see current NY Jets Center Nick Mangold among the attendees. Again the Hecht family is responsible for the fish here, so you know you can expect big pieces of freshly cooked fish.

 

ST FRANCIS OF ASSISI -6245 Wilmington Pike

This was a very organized fish fry put on dozens of volunteers from the church. We liked the fact that they had baked fish as a choice as well as the typical fried fish. The dining area was crowded, so get to this one early. This was simply a beautiful church with a fun atmosphere at the fish fry.

 

NOW YOU KNOW !

Only here, can you see the most comprehensive Dayton fish fry summary known to man. Food Adventures knows because we ate it all!

Make sure that you scroll through the photo album below featuring every single fish fry.
On a side note, some of the church websites do not have the greatest information about the fish frys. For that reason, make sure you stay tuned to DaytonMostMetro and Dayton Dining for all the dates and times of future fish frys.

The bottom line here is that each Lenten season, Daytonians should take advantage of the great events and support some local churches. The fish frys are friendly and welcome all denominations of faith. It is about fun times and good causes. all-you-can eat So swim on to the next Food Adventure !

WHICH AREA FISH FRYS ARE YOUR FAVORITE? DID WE MISS ANY ? PLEASE COMMENT BELOW !

For more Fish fry photos from Food Adventures, click HERE ! link to [flagallery gid=34 name=Gallery]

Neighborhood Leadership Institute Now Accepting Applications

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b8fb1b_2bdba02982128a5b9464ff33a9fdee7a.jpg_srz_520_245_75_22_0.50_1.20_0The Neighborhood Leadership Institute (NLI) is an annual 12-week program that trains Dayton residents for current or future leadership opportunties in city communities. Workshops are held at various locations and presentations cover topics such as Dayton’s history; the role of City government, the criminal justice system and cultural diversity; skill-building components such as public speaking and small-group dynamics; and a bus tour of Dayton neighborhoods. Class members also complete field assignments to expand their knowledge of Dayton, City government and the community at large. It is a unique partnership project sponsored by the City of Dayton, Sinclair Community College, Greater Dayton RTA and the Neighborhood Leadership Institute Alumni Association.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ufI63xiLeYQ’]

The program has four objectives:
To broaden the participants’ understanding of the community;
To expand the pool of skilled neighborhood leaders;
To encourage and assist the establishment of networks among neighborhoods and their leaders; and
To enhance the ability of neighborhoods to resolve problems on their own or in cooperation with other neighborhoods and/or institutions.

See the tentative schedule and application for the 2014 Neighborhood Leadership Institute.  Application deadline is February 7, 2014.

Completed applications for the next Neighborhood Leadership Program  must be returned to: City Hall, 101 W. Third Street Dayton, Ohio 45402, and email to [email protected].

When all applications have been reviewed, those considered for final selection will be invited to a personal interview with the selection committee. The committee will look for those persons who have demonstrated a personal commitment to the community or neighborhood and who have the time to give toward neighborhood service.

Committee will seek a group of about 25 people who represent a balance of men and women from different geographic, career, educational, social and cultural backgrounds. The committee is composed of established
neighborhood and community leaders.  You must be a resident of the City of  Dayton in order to apply.
There is no charge for participation in the program. Your cost is the time and effort you spend. The program consists of 14 evening and/or Saturday sessions over a three-month period. Classroom and/or workshop sessions are held at
various locations related to the session topic. Presenters include current neighborhood, business, and government leaders. Each participant must attend all of the sessions in order to be certified as having completed the program. In
addition, outside field assignments are required.

In addition to the knowledge, skills and experience you gain, the completion of this program qualifies participants for one credit hour (VOL 190) at Sinclair Community College. The real returns, however, are the contributions you make
to your neighborhood and to Dayton. Your efforts will make a difference and help our city to grow today and tomorrow. Leadership is, after all, a gift to your community – a gift of your skills and your time.

For further information contact Verletta Jackson at 333-3288 or [email protected].

 

Introducing (DE-FI)ance Fashion Week

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Image by Lamar Pacley of Shutter Eye Photo

Image by Lamar Pacley of Shutter Eye Photo

Mark your calendars for May 6-10, 2014, as the Dayton Emerging Fashion Incubator (DE-FI) LLC is set to make its mark on the Fashion Industry!!  The mission of (DE-FI)ance Fashion Week is to raise money to help support area and independent fashion designers and fashion professionals launch and/or grow their brands.  Funds made from (DE-FI)ance Fashion Week will go to establish and support the Art of (DE-FI)ance Fashion Fund.  The Art of (DE-FI)ance Fashion Fund will be used to help designers purchase materials such as fabrics to produce their lines, pay entrance fees into influential Fashion Weeks such as Midwest Fashion Week where they will be in front of buyers, as well as helping to pay for some travel expenses!!

After working one on one with area designers over the past year (DE-FI) has discovered that in order to fulfill its ultimate mission of serving as a launching pad for area designers and models into the Fashion Industry as well as giving the local retail community a boost, these services are needed.  According to Springfield based designer Misti Leigh the fabrics alone to produce one line for a fashion event can cost at least $1,200.  That doesn’t even include the fees for entry into a Fashion Event which can range anywhere from $250-$6,000 and given the fact that most fashion weeks or events will not even consider allowing you to show pieces that have already been seen, being a Fashion Designers can cost tens of thousands of dollars a year.  Needless to say there are very little kickbacks for even participating in these events outside of gaining a few fans most fashion related events don’t even allow for the designers to sale their products at the event.

So, how will (DE-FI)ance Fashion Week be different?  Well, for starters there will be NO entry fee for designers to participate in (DE-FI)ance Fashion Week!  In return we are asking participating designers to volunteer their time at least once in 2014 teaching participants of the My Beauty is Priceless and Sons of Solomon Youth Empowerment Seminars the art of sewing and design.  The participants of both seminars will then take what they have learned from the designers and produce their own fashion show in December 2014, featuring their own designs, with an issue of (DE-FI)ance Magazine dedicated to their work.

Fashion In the Mystic Garden. Image by Reginald Worthen, Designer: iii Design by Misti Leigh, Model: Aube

Fashion In the Mystic Garden. Image by Reginald Worthen, Designer: iii Design by Misti Leigh, Model: Aube

Another benefit for designers participating in (DE-FI)ance Fashion Week will be just as we did at our Launch Party in July of 2013, designers will have the opportunity to sale their products via vending space the entire week in what is considered a Trunk Show.  Trunk Shows give the designers a chance  to come face to face with the customer, the customer gets to see up close and personal samples of a design much like shopping at the mall, however unlike shopping at the mall, the customer can have the design customized to their exact measurements.  All (DE-FI) ask in return from the designers is that we receive 20% of the sales to cover venue and supply cost.

A third benefit for designers participating in (DE-FI)ance Fashion Week is simple, at (DE-FI) we don’t just do “fashion shows” we give our audience, models, and designers a FASHION EXPERIENCE that they will not soon forget.  We are an outside of the box organization; we hold our events at locations where most people wouldn’t think to have a fashion event or even if the venue has hosted fashion events, we guarantee that it won’t be anything like a (DE-FI) event.  We like to call it the snow flake affect, meaning yeah we’ve all seen snow or a fashion show before but when you look closely at a snow flake you’ll see that each flake or event is never the same, they are each uniquely different!!

So without further ado, here’s a look at what (DE-FI)ance Fashion Week has in store!

Date: Tuesday May 6, 2014

Event: Fashion Mixer and Trunk Show

Location: Dayton Visual Arts Center

Time: 5:30pm -9:30pm

Event Description:  This will be the official kick off for (DE-FI)ance Fashion Week.  The Fashion Mixer and Trunk Show will be a Happy Hour style event held at the DVAC.  Guest will have the opportunity to unwind with a drink and do some therapeutic shopping during the Trunk Show.  This event will also serve as an opportunity to meet and greet with the participating designers, models, sponsors, and the entire team behind the Dayton Emerging Fashion Incubator (DE-FI) LLC.  Proceeds for this event will go to the Art of (DE-FI)ance Fund which benefits local and independent Designers.

Cost: $10 Tickets go on sale March 8 at Salon J Ladner located at 37 S. St.Clair St., Dayton, OH 45402, American Pi Dayton located at 39. S. St. Clair St., Dayton, OH 45402 Beaute Box located 116 W. 5th St., Dayton OH, 45402, American Pi Lebanon located at 748 E. Columbus Ave., Lebanon OH.

Fashion In the Mystic Garden, Image by Reginald Worthen, Designer: Berny Martin of Catou, Model: Erica

Fashion In the Mystic Garden, Image by Reginald Worthen, Designer: Berny Martin of Catou, Model: Erica

 

Date: Wednesday May 7, 2014

Event: Couture Hair Show

Location: The Dayton Masonic Temple

Time: 7:00pm-9:00pm

Event Description: Day 2 of (DE-FI)ance Fashion Week will take a look at a side of fashion events that are often over looked and that’s the behind the scenes hair and makeup team that work closely with designers to help them complete their runway look or photo shoots!  Eight of the top hair stylist and salons will be featured during this themed Hair Competition with a cash prize.  Proceeds for this event will go to the Art of (DE-FI)ance Fashion Fund which benefits local and independent Designers.

Cost: $20 Tickets go on sale March 8 at Salon J Ladner located at 37 S. St.Clair St., Dayton, OH 45402, American Pi Dayton located at 39. S. St. Clair St., Dayton, OH 45402 Beaute Box located 116 W. 5th St., Dayton OH, 45402, American Pi Lebanon located at 748 E. Columbus Ave., Lebanon OH.

Taste of (DE-FI)ance, Image by Lamar Pacley, Designer: iii Design by Misti Leigh, Model: Amber

Taste of (DE-FI)ance, Image by Lamar Pacley, Designer: iii Design by Misti Leigh, Model: Amber

 

Date: Thursday May 8, 2014

Event: Stylish Mom Runway Show

Location: The Packard Museum

Time: 7:00pm-9:00pm

Event Description:  Day 3 of (DE-FI)ance Fashion Week will highlight fashions from some of the area’s top boutiques!!  But unlike our other fashion shows, we aren’t using models for this event…We’re using some of Dayton’s and the Miami Valley’s most deserving and inspirational Moms to rip our runway!!  Paired with two of the Midwest’s most well-known Fashion Stylist Jennifer Link of Dayton and Sheree Alexis of Columbus the moms will be rocking designs and looks from eight of the area’s top boutiques.

 

The top looks will be featured in the December 2014 Issue of (DE-FI)ance Magazine and of course we will be using the Moms once again as the models along with their children.  (DE-FI) is currently accepting submissions from moms who would like to participate in this event, if you’re a mom, mom-to-be, a Glam-Mom aka Grandma and you think that you have what it takes to rip the runway during the Stylish Mom Runway Show, please send your bio 500 words or less along with (2) images of you and your children to [email protected].  The deadline for submissions is Feb. 28, 2014.  Proceeds for this event will go to the Art of (DE-FI)ance Fashion Fund which benefits local and independent Designers.

Cost: $30 Tickets go on sale March 8 at Salon J Ladner located at 37 S. St.Clair St., Dayton, OH 45402, American Pi Dayton located at 39. S. St. Clair St., Dayton, OH 45402 Beaute Box located 116 W. 5th St., Dayton OH, 45402, American Pi Lebanon located at 748 E. Columbus Ave., Lebanon OH.

 

Date: Friday May 9, 2014

Taste of (DE-FI)ance, Image by Lamar Pacley, Designer: Brenda Marone of B. Marie, Model: Ellie

Taste of (DE-FI)ance, Image by Lamar Pacley, Designer: Brenda Marone of B. Marie, Model: Ellie

Event: Fashion In the Mystic Garden

Location: SunWatch Indian Village

Time: 7:00pm-9:00pm

Event Description:  Day 4 of (DE-FI)ance Fashion Week will take us back to where it all began for us in 2013–  SunWatch Indian Village for Fashion In the Mystic Garden 2.0! 😉 Merging the Culinary Skills of Chef Anthony Head and the creativity of the Taste of (DE-FI)ance which took place on Jan.3, 2014, Fashion In the Mystic Garden will feature Ready to Wear designs and dinner by candle light in the majestic setting of the Village area at SunWatch.  For those not familiar with the concept behind the Taste of (DE-FI)ance, Chef Head will work one on one with the designers to develop a menu based on the origin of the fabric used, the theme of the collection, and color schemes to produce a multi-course meal that compliments and resembles the looks on the runway.  Proceeds for this event will go to the Art of (DE-FI)ance Fashion Fund which

Taste of (DE-FI)ance, Chef Head created a menu for B.Marie Designs that accompanied the red backless dress consisted of Orange Duck Tart with Blood Orange Sauce, Roasted Tomato Shooter with Maldon Slated Rim, Black Bean Salsa with Hawaiian Black Sew Salt and Cream Cheese Canape

Taste of (DE-FI)ance, Chef Head created a menu for B.Marie Designs that accompanied the red backless dress consisted of Orange Duck Tart with Blood Orange Sauce, Roasted Tomato Shooter with Maldon Slated Rim, Black Bean Salsa with Hawaiian Black Sew Salt and Cream Cheese Canape

benefits local and independent Designers.

Cost: TBA Tickets go on sale March 8 at Salon J Ladner located at 37 S. St.Clair St., Dayton, OH 45402, American Pi Dayton located at 39. S. St. Clair St., Dayton, OH 45402 Beaute Box located 116 W. 5th St., Dayton OH, 45402, American Pi Lebanon located at 748 E. Columbus Ave., Lebanon OH.

 

Date: Saturday May 10, 2014

Event: First Flight…Now Fashion Vintage Couture Ball

Location: Commander Aero Airport

Time: 8:00pm-12:00am

Event Description:  The 5th and final day of (DE-FI)ance Fashion Week will culminate with a unique celebration of all things Dayton—from aviation, innovation, and of course FASHION!!  We’re taking a step back in time with Roaring 20’s attire social event featuring heavy appetizers, a cash bar, dancing, networking, performances, and a Couture Fashion Runway Experience like no other.  Set in an Airplane Hanger the proceeds from the First Flight…Now Fashion Vintage Couture Ball will go to the Art of (DE-FI)ance Fashion Fund which benefits local and independent Designers.

Cost: $55 Tickets go on sale March 8 at Salon J Ladner located at 37 S. St.Clair St., Dayton, OH 45402, American Pi Dayton located at 39. S. St. Clair St., Dayton, OH 45402 Beaute Box located 116 W. 5th St., Dayton OH, 45402, American Pi Lebanon located at 748 E. Columbus Ave., Lebanon OH.

Taste if (DE-FI)ance, Image by Lamar Pacley, Designer: Sonya Mills of Kerapa Klothing, Model: Megan

Taste if (DE-FI)ance, Image by Lamar Pacley, Designer: Sonya Mills of Kerapa Klothing, Model: Megan

Casting Calls for models will be held on Saturday March 8, 2014 at the St. Clair Lofts, located at 35 S. St. Clair St., Dayton, OH, 45402 from 12p-2p.  This Casting Call is open to males and females ages 4 & up, models under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.  All models must bring with them (2) images current images a head shot and a full body shot.  If you are a business owner interested in becoming a sponsor for (DE-FI)ance Fashion Week or taking out an ad in (DE-FI)ance Magazine, (DE-FI) offers affordable packages to fit all budget sizes.  Please send all inquiries to [email protected].

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Food Truck & Brewery Dinner

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1544982_495834400534680_865214119_nHarvest Mobile Cuisine is partnering with Yellow Springs Brewery to serve a very special dinner!
Appetizers include artisan chesses, crudites and fresh fruits with crackers and truck made sweet potato chips

The first course will include apple fritters, smoked pork belly polenta cakd with fennel puree.

The entree course will by a walnut crusted walleye with roasted acorn squash and bulls blood beet risotto.

Dessert will be a flourless chocolate torte with Harvest caramel sauce.
Reservations are required and seating is limited. Please call 767-0222 to make your reservations for this unique event.

5 Tips to Staying Active and Healthy This Winter

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Baby it’s cold outside-just because the mercury is dropping don’t let your activity level drop too!  Don’t let the winter blues get you down and keep you from living an active lifestyle.  The winter isn’t meant for us to hibernate.  We still have to get up and go to work every day just like in the summer so why shouldn’t we still keep active.  Here are five easy remedies to fighting winter hibernation and starting the year off right.

1.      Go out and PLAY!

If you can’t seem to muster the energy to work out this time of year, try “playing” instead. You can burn quite a few calories playing indoors or out. The best part is that it doesn’t feel like working out—though you can still get your heart rate up and have an excellent cardio and muscle toning session. Take advantage of this snow filled winter and have a blast in the winter wonderland outside by making snow angels, having a snowball fight, building a snowman or sledding! These are fun activities you can do by yourself, with friends or kids.  They are great family bonding activities that will leave everyone sweaty, fit and exhilarated!

2.      Take up a winter sport

If, like me, you’re a competitive type, why not try a new winter sport?  From skiing to snowshoeing or ice-skating, there are many great options that burn mega calories and put a whole new twist on staying active this winter.  In the Dayton area we are fortunate to have the Five Rivers MetroParks that offer outdoor skating to add some scenery to your activity.  Ski slopes like Perfect North and Mad River Mountain offer a lot of discounts this season and are a short drive away.  This winter, try something new, challenge yourself in a way you never thought possible, and I promise you won’t regret trying.

3.      Try a workout class

Workout classes are a great motivator for me.  They offer accountability and the hardest part is showing up.  Don’t have a gym membership?  No problem!  There are plenty of drop-in classes open to anyone in our area.  Hot Yoga is a “hot” trend right now with multiple classes all over the Dayton area.  Kettering Rec Center has some awesome Zumba and TRX classes as well as many of the other recs and YMCA’s in town.  If you’re a woman, I highly recommend trying out BAER Fit Chicks!  All of these classes offer great workouts in different ways and will keep you going through the cold months.

4.      Try a workout DVD

Too cold to leave your house?  No time for an hour workout or feel you need to spend more time at home?  Try a workout DVD!  You can find DVDs that offer rejuvenating workouts ranging anywhere from 8 minutes to 1 hour.  I am a huge fan of the Jillian Michaels DVDs, especially the 30 Day Shred.  Jeannette Jenkins also has a great kickboxing DVD that is so much fun I don’t even realize I’m getting a workout.  Want something you can do with the kids or the whole family?  Try Just Dance on the Wii!  I have worked up some of my best sweats playing this game and it is SO MUCH FUN!!!!

5.      Do your household chores

Admittedly, this isn’t my favorite option.  But it does help me not spend the entire day on my couch, in my PJs, accomplishing nothing.  Unless you’re tuning in and working out with a fitness show, limit your downtime at the TV and computer. If you’re stuck indoors, get a jump on spring cleaning. (Remember, when the warm weather returns, you’ll want to be back outside, not cleaning the house.) Collect and recycle old clothes and used appliances that have been taking up space in your closets, and take care of the various household chores you’ve been putting off since the summer. An hour of housework burns about 200 calories; plus, this winter activity will give you a great sense of accomplishment.

So it’s time to get excited. If you’ve never been a winter fan, start focusing on what you do love about it and how this time of year provides new opportunities for your fitness and health. From eating delicious in-season produce (oranges, kale, and chestnuts, oh my!), to curling up with a steaming mug of hot cocoa in front of the fireplace after a long workout, there is much to love about winter when you embrace it and appreciate all it has to offer.

$25,000 to be awarded for a new Dayton product or service—spring 2014!

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en•tre•pre•neur n.   a person who organizes and manages an enterprise, especially a business, usually with considerable initiative. (See also revolutionary, risk taker, visionary, self-made & slightly mad.)

soin_award_appDayton’s history is full of genius people who possess an untamed entrepreneurial spirit.  From John H. Patterson to Charles Kettering, the Wright Brothers to Carl Lindner; the list goes on and on. Dayton claims more patents per capita than any other U.S. city in 1900.  So what can we do to keep this momentum going? How about $25,000 for your new product or service!  Enter the Soin Award For Innovation.

“The Dayton area has a long history of innovation and discovery. We must continue to encourage our local entrepreneurs to build on this and create new enterprises, jobs and additional opportunities for this region. On behalf of the Soin Family, I am proud to support this annual award that recognizes the accomplishments of these individuals and businesses.” -Rajesh Soin Chairman and CEO Soin International

Since 2007, The Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce and the Soin family are partnering to offer the Soin Award for Innovation, which bestows one recipient annually an award of $25,000!  The winning applicant best demonstrates an entrepreneurial spirit through a recently introduced or pending introduction of a unique product or service that will have the ability to sustain long-term growth for the company, increase local employment and assist in the creation of economic prosperity within the Dayton region.

“The Soin Award for Innovation means something for this community.  When our company is talking to other transit systems, it allows us to say, our local community supports us. The Soin Award validates Commuter Advertising nationally and locally.” -Russell Gottesman, President and CEO Commuter Advertising 2011 Soin award winner

 

A selection committee, made up of representatives of the region’s business and academic leaders, along with The Chamber’s Education and Public Improvement Foundation (EPI Foundation) Board members, will select one recipient annually from the applications to receive a $25,000 cash award and its accompanying public and community recognition.

Past Soin Award winners:Soin-Award-IMG_7004

2013 UDECX

2012 NanoSperse

2011 Commuter Advertising

2010 Composite Advantage

2009 IYA Technologies

2008 Mound Laser and Photonics Center, Inc

2007 WebCore

Applications are due no later than February 14, 2014 and judging will take place at the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce on Monday March 3, 2014.  EPI Foundation will present the Soin Award for Innovation at the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting in the spring of 2014.

A link to the application is listed below:

www.daytonchamber.org/index.cfm/business-resources/soin-award

There will be a Lunch and Learn at UD’s River Campus on the Soin Award and information on the regions wealth of entrepreneurial resources on January 30th from 11:00AM-1:00PM.  For more information on this event and the Soin Award please contact Jason Antonick at [email protected] or by calling him at 937 226-8293.

The Dayton Chamber and Soin family have given away $175,000 over the last 7 years, could you be the winner this year?

 

The above article written by Jason Antonick, Manager, Business and Economic Development, Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce.

 

 

Clothes That Work Now Collecting Gowns and Accessories For Fairy Godmother Project

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ctwClothes That Work, in partnership with the Dayton Chapter of  The Links, Incorporated, presents the 6th annual Fairy Godmother Project on Saturday, March 15 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. at Clothes That Work, located in The Job Center, 1133 S. Edwin C. Moses Blvd.

The Fairy Godmother Project is directed at prom-going high school girls who are in need of a prom dress and originated with support from Disney On Ice in an effort to allow every girl to feel like a princess on her prom day.

The Fairy Godmother Project @ Clothes That Work from Andy Snow on Vimeo.

It is anticipated that more than 500 girls will attend the distribution event on March 15, sorted and stocked prom gowns of all sizes are provided in a department store-like setting. The girls will be able to try on as many dresses as they like until they find the perfect dress and coordinating accessories. All dresses and accessories are given to the girls at no cost. Girls wishing to participate may register the day of the event, beginning at 10 a.m., at the Clothes That Work office in the Job Center. Pre-registration is not required.

Currently, Clothes That Work is accepting dress and accessory donations for the Fairy Godmother Project. Dress and accessory donations may be made to Clothes That Work during regular donation times, or at any of these local businesses:

Dayton Chamber of Commerce – Dayton Convention Center, 22 E Fifth Street, 2nd Floor,  Dayton, OH  45402
Donations accepted Monday – Friday 8 a.m – 5 p.m. January 6 – February 28, 2014.

Oakwood Florist – 2313 Far Hills Ave Dayton OH 45419
Donations accepted Monday – Friday 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. January 6 through February 28, 2014.



Hannah’s Treasure Chest – 124 Westpark Dr. Centerville, OH 45459
Donations accepted Monday – Thursday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.  January 6 through February 27, 2014.

Logos@Work – 937 S. Patterson Blvd. Dayton, OH 45402
Donations accepted January 6 through February 28, 2014.

Square One Salon & Spa – Centerville – 1 N. Main St. Centerville OH 45459
Donations accepted Monday – Thursday 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. , Friday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., Sunday Noon – 5 p.m. January 6 through February 28, 2014.

Square One Salon & Spa – Downtown – 506 E. Third St. Dayton OH 45402
Donations accepted Monday Noon – 8 p.m., Tuesday – Thursday 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. Friday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. January 6 through February 28, 2014.

In advance of the dress distribution, the Dayton Chapter of The Links, Incorporated conduct an online essay contest with top finishers winning additional prom goods, such as limousine transportation, dinners, hair and nail services, tuxedo rental for their dates, corsages and boutonnieres and more.

For more information on dress collection, distribution or the essay contest, please visit www.clothesthatwork.org or contact Shelby Quinlivan at 937.222.3778 ext.150 or [email protected].

 

Why You Should Only Buy Girl Scout Cookies From A Girl Scout

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1434477-LToday is the start of Girl Scout cookie season.  For almost 100 years, Girl Scouts, with the enthusiastic support of their families and communities, have knocked on doors, set up sales tables at stores and community events and hawked thin mints.The $700 million Girl Scout Cookie Program is the largest girl-led business in the country and generates immeasurable benefits for girls, their councils, and their communities.

I admit I was a girl scout.  And for those of you who know me, it will come as no surprise that I was determined to sell more cookies than any of the other girls.  I went up and down my street, knocking on doors for orders.  I called all my relatives and perfected my telemarketing skills.  I asked my dad to get his co-workers to buy from me. And he said NO!  But he did offer to take me to work so I could ask for the order.  I worked hard and  sold hundreds of boxes and was sure I’d win the Cookie title.

 

Well as it turns out, I didn’t.  Some little girl named Susie did.  She lived down the street from me and I never saw her ask any of our neighbors to buy cookies.  I assked her how she did it and she said it was easy-her mom and dad got all the orders for her.  I was mad and didn’t think it was fair and complained to my dad about it.  He told me life wasn’t fair, never would be, but that I’d really won, and I’d appreciate it some day when I LOC Top cookie seller (Wezensky)realized that I had gotten much more out of it than Susie had.  Not what a 9 year old girl wants to hear.  So I’m sure I sulked around for a while, until something else captured my attention.

But now many years later, I get it.  My dad was right- I had won! I’d learned how to set a goal, prospect customers, perfect my sales pitch, work on my organizational skills, plan the logistics of delivery, handle money, make change and enjoy quite a few cookies, too!

And that’s why I implore you to only buy cookies from Girl Scouts.  I know there are many well intentioned parents  that want to help their daughters, and help support the troops so they can put on all the programs they have scheduled; but please help them by letting them sell!

In a recent study by the Girl Scouts Heart of the South, they documented  skills the  Girl Scout Cookie Program teaches, which  girls can apply to everyday life:

  • 85% increased their money management skills as they developed budgets, took cookie orders and handled customers’ money.
  • 83% developed business ethics, learning to fulfill promises to customers and considering how best to contribute to their communities with their earnings.
  • 80% set goals and created objectives to reach them.
  • 77% made important decisions, learning to work as a team to develop a business plan, deciding when and where to sell cookies, and determining what to do with the money they earn.
  • 75% developed people skills, learning to talk to, listen to and work with different kinds of people.

Many successful businesswomen and community leaders say they got their start selling Girl Scout Cookies.  So when your local Girl Scouts come calling with this year’s best-selling cookies, remember you’re saying hello to tomorrow’s business leaders.

 

The Cookies:

 

COOKIE VARIETIES – $4.00/BOX
Thin Mints–Little Brownie’s extra thin, extra minty Thin Mints are covered in a luscious chocolaty coating and made with real, natural oil of peppermint, not artificial flavoring, to create the nation’s number one best-selling Girl Scout cookie.
Samoas–The original Samoas are of such high quality they sometimes outsell even Thin Mints in some councils. Little Brownie makes and mixes their own homemade caramel in copper kettles and uses sweet, crunchy toasted coconut. Bottom covered and striped in dark chocolaty coating, Samoas are truly America’s most deliciously different cookie!

Tagalongs–Tagalongs are made with a special blend of rich, creamy peanut butter completely covered in rich milk-chocolaty coating for a creative combination of America’s two most popular flavors. It’s no wonder Tagalongs never last long in many households.


Do-si-dos –Do-si-dos are oatmeal peanut butter sandwich cookies with a natural blend of wholesome ingredients. Little Brownie uses baby rolled oats, never flaked oats. Many customers fondly call Do-si-dos the “Official Breakfast Cookie.”

Trefoils–Little Brownie’s Trefoil cookies have a rich, buttery flavor and a classic shortbread aroma that delights Girl Scout cookie fans of all ages.

Savannah Smiles – This lemon wedge cookie is cool and crisp, with just the right number of lemon chips to deliver tiny bursts of flavor. And, when you hold it right, you’ll quickly be reminded of that world-famous “Brownie Smile.”

Did you know that Girl Scout cookies have?

  • No high fructose corn syrup
  • No trans fats
  • No hydrogenated oils in five varieties
  • 100 percent real cocoa
  • Nutritious whole grain oats
  • Two nut-free varieties: Trefoils and Thin Mints contain no peanuts or tree nuts
Additional nutritional information about on the cookies is available here.

 

All of the proceeds from the cookie sale—every penny—stays within our community to benefit local girls. Girl Scout troops use the money for field trips and community service projects.

Money from Girl Scout Cookies helps the council:
  • Recruit and train volunteer adults to work with girls.
  • Provide the financial assistance needed to make Girl Scouting available for all girls.
  • Improve and maintain camp and other activity sites.
  • Keep event/camp fees for all members to a minimum.
  • Sponsor special events and projects.

 

 

 

2014 Dayton Fish Fry Schedule

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FishFry_Fish

 

 

 

This month kicks off Fish Fry Season in Dayton – that hugely popular Catholic tradition that combines fish and chips, beer, silent auctions and blackjack to help raise funds for each respective parish/school.  Here is a listing of the area’s Catholic Churches and Schools that will be hosting Fish Fry nights in the coming weeks, PLUS non-church-related Fish Fry nights (if you can help us fill in a few missing dates or  know of one that is missing from our list, please let us know the details in the comments below so we can add it):

 

 

Holy Angels Church Fish Fry
1322 Brown Street
Dayton, OH 45409
Friday January 10, 2014 6:00pm-Midnight
Our Lady of the Rosary Fish Fry
22 Notre Dame Ave.
Dayton, Ohio 45404
Friday January 10, 2014 & Friday, Feb 14 2014 6:00pm-10:30pm
St. Albert the Great Fish Fry
3033 Far Hills Ave.
Kettering, OH 45429
Friday January 24, 2014 5:00pm-Midnight
St. Mary’s Fish Fry
310 Allen St.
Dayton, OH 45410
Friday February 7, 2014 6pm-11pm $15
St. Henry Monte Carlo Fish Fry
6696 Springboro Rd.
West Carrollton, OH 45449
Friday February 7, 2014 7:00pm-Midnight
$12 Advance; $15 Door
Carrolleer Fish Fry
4524 Linden Ave.
Dayton, OH 45432
Saturday February 22, 2014 6:00pm-Midnight
$13 Advance; $16 Door
Saint Peter Catholic Church Fish Fry
6161 Chambersburg Rd.
Huber Heights, OH 45424
Saturday February 8, 2014 5:30 – 11pm
Irish Club Fish Fry & Monte Carlo
6555 Dog Leg Road
Dayton, OH 45414
???? 2014 6:00pm-11:00pm
$10
Holy Trinity Fish and Sausage Fry
272 Bainbridge Street
Dayton, OH 45402
?????, 2014 7:00pm-12:00pm
Alter Knight Out Fish Fry
940 East David Rd.
Kettering, OH 45429
Friday February 28 2014 7:00pm-Midnight
$12 Advance / $15 Door
St. Francis of Assisi Fish Fry
6245 Wilmington Pike
Centerville, OH 45459
Friday March 1, 2013 (5pm – 11pm)
Corpus Christi Fish Fry
527 Forest Ave
Dayton, OH 45405
???? 2014 (5pm – ?)
St. Anthony Catholic Church Fish Fry
830 Bowen St.
Dayton, OH 45410
Friday March 28, 2014 6 – 11pm
Incarnation Church Fish Fry
55 Williamsburg Lane
Centerville, OH 45459
Friday March 14, 2014 7pm-Midnight
St. Charles Monte Carlo Fish Fry
4500 Ackerman Blvd.
Kettering, OH 45429
Friday March 21, 2014
Carryout from 4:30 to 6pm
Family Dining from 5 to 6pm
Main Event 7 to midnight
Dayton Rugby Club Fish Fry
IUE-CWA Local 755 Hall
1675 Woodman Drive
Dayton, OH 45432
Friday March 14, 2014 6:00pm-Midnight
CJ Fish Fry
505 S. Ludlow St.
Dayton, OH 45402
Saturday March 22, 2014 6:00pm-11:00pm
helenSt Helen Booster Club Fish Fry
605 Granville Place
Dayton, OH 45431
Saturday January  25, 2014 6:00pm-11:00pm
2e30992a91834aab16f8c82fdf142fe4Knights of Columbus Fish Fry
Christopher Club Banquet Hall
3150 S. Dixie Dr  Moraine, OH 45439
Saturday February 1, 2014 7:00pm-11:00pm
995162_534910146558765_1214128311_nKettering American Legion
5700 Kentshire Drive Kettering OH
Saturday February 22, 2014 5:00pm-11:00pm
logo-rhaPartners Fish N Chips Fish Fry
Huber Heights Athletic Center
5367 Fishburg Rd. Dayton, OH  45424
Friday February 29th 6-11pm
St Christopher Fish Fry and Monte Carlo
405 National Rd., Vandalia
Saturday February 8th, 6 p – 11 pm

 

Restaurants Closed But Not Forgotten – Part 2

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The Upper Krust Centerville Location

As the new year dawns, we ask “Should old acquaintance be forgot and never brought to mind?”  Well not when it comes to Food Adventures!   In this week’s installment, The Food Adventures Crew take you on a trip of years gone by.  We call it “Restaurants Closed But Not Forgotten.” 

IMPORTANT:  This article is a follow up to one posted last year.  Before you comment saying “you forgot this place,” please make sure it wasn’t mentioned in our very popular “CLOSED BUT NOT FORGOTTEN RESTAURANTS PART 1” (click here to view).

Let’s dive right into some of  “Dayton Restaurants that are Closed but not Forgotten” (part 2).

THE UPPER KRUST – Legendary sandwich shop with locations on North Main Street and in Woodbourne Village in Centerville near 48 and Whipp Rd.  Who can forget the “Tom Turkey” sandwich or the choice of beets, chips or apple sauce.

TALL TIMBERS –  This old style “supper club” on Troy Pike in  Huber Heights, was known for steaks.  It was actually in an old building built by Benjamin Van Cleve in 1916.  Approximately 25 years ago, a fire closed the restaurant once and for all.  We remember dining there as kids and using the “Entertainment” coupon for a free entree.

LAWSON’S – These milk stores/convenient stores were all over the Dayton area in the 70’s,  and even had delis inside.  Lawson’s was a Cleveland based company.

SAMPAN – On Webster Street, this oriental restaurant was one of the first ones in Dayton.  They had those cool 70’s style, steel serving plates.

Remember Lawson’s Convenient Stores??

TONY’S DUNKER’S DELIGHT DONUTS – Near the corner of Stroop and Marshall Rd in Kettering, this place had a cult following.

PEKING INN –  This spot was known for their signature dish “Peking Duck” and serving dinners in hot metal covered dishes.  Peking Inn was located on 725 near the middle of Centerville and is now “Las Piramedes” Mexican restaurant.

PONDEROSA STEAKHOUSE – They used to be all over the place in the 70’s and early 80’s.  Who could forget the metal topped wooden plates and the damn buttery rolls!  Sliding your tray down the cafeteria line, watching them cook steaks, and visiting the trough salad bar.   You can still visit one on Airway Rd. for old times sake.

CHIN’S ORIENTAL CAFE / CHIN’S GINGER GRILL – A fixture in downtown Dayton and in Tipp City, It was hard to see these 2 locations go.  For decades, Daytonians enjoyed these restaurants that were definitely ahead of their time.   Facility issues and lack of business, as well as an owner who wanted to retire, led to the closing of the Downtown Dayton location in 2003.  The Tipp City eatery would follow in the next few years.

THE COLONY CLUB –  Old school supper club, full bar, but we got “Shirley Temples.”,   They were known for their hopping atmosphere as well as steaks and seafood.  The Big Ragu took a dinner date there during school dances in the mid 80’s.

Hamburger HEaven

Muscle Cars & Good Burgers at Hamburger Heaven on Woodman Dr.

URBAN SUBURBAN TAVERN: Remember the Butcher paper signs on the wall with the weekly specials written on them?  Owned by Dayton icon Urban Goeke, this spot was a popular destination in the early 80’s.  Located near Marshall Rd and Stroop, specialties included, steaks,  seafood and burgers.  Good prices and great values, this establishment was bought out by the owners of Elsa’s and converted to a Kettering Elsa’s location.  Not many people know that Urban Suburban was the first Dayton restaurant to serve buffalo style chicken wings.

HAMBURGER HEAVEN: This spot was a popular oldies car drive in destination on the weekends on Woodman Dr in a converted Red Barn restaurant.  They were known for their burgers, especially a huge creation called “The Galaxy Burger” which we loved.

BOBO CHINA – Little spot on Bigger Rd that used to be a Burger Chef and a Chucks Burgers and Stuff.  They had great egg rolls and one of the first buffets in town.

BOSCO’S / THE OAKS – Dart throwing, beer swilling, and live band watching pubs located at the corner of Bigger Rd and Hewitt Ave.  Big volleyball events and summer parties were also hallmarks here.  The spots were vacated and made way for the latest restaurant to close at the same location, Italian eatery, Arthur’s.

 

THE MANDARIN KITCHEN – Formerly located at S. Ludlow, this restaurant was owned by celebrity chef Ming Tsai’s parents.  This restaurant was known for its “Yu Shang” dishes and twice cooked pork.

 

TALEGATORS – Freshly demolished to make way for a new McDonalds, this place had some stellar wings, especially the sweet chili wings.  The sauce would make you smack your lips and smack your momma too.  Known for their live music and bar specials as well, this place had a cult following.

Talegators - incredible wings

Talegators: Incredible wings ! Gone but not Forgotten…

THE SAVORY –   An underrated steakhouse at 2335 Smithville Rd. that was in an old “A” frame building that was obviously an IHOP or Howard Johnson’s.  Cozy atmosphere, good food…  The spot later became the first Cadillac Jacks !

PIZZA QUEEN INTERNATIONAL – Opened in 1978, by the Castro family, this place served pizzas from locations in West Carrollton and on Marshall Rd in Kettering.  In the earl 1990’s, the family decided to close the pizza shops and turn the West Carrollton location in into El Meson Restaurant which is still operating today under the same ownership.  Even though we love El Meson, we still miss Pizza Queen to this day!

SCOTTY’S HAMBURGERS – This place was very similar to White Castle, but with a diner feel inside.  The Big Ragu specifically remembers eating at the location on N. Fairfield Rd that would later become Bud Frantz’ Fairfield Inn and BR Scoteses’s.

 

BUD FRANTZ’ FAIRFIELD INN – Family restaurant known for big portions and decent prices.  Chicken and steak were the specialties.  This spot later became BR Scotese’s.

B. R. SCOTESE’S  – Chef David Glynn opened this restaurant as a tribute to his grandfather.  The place had some terrific Italian specialties, but unfortunately went out of business in the 90’s.

Daytonians Loved Parkmoor Chicken in the 60’s

LAI LAI – Chinese restaurant near Woodman and Dorothy Lane intersection.  They were one of the first Chinese restaurants to use coupons to lure customers and lunch crowds.

BOB’S FOOD WAREHOUSE – This grocer on Woodman Dr. in Kettering was a pre-cursor to Sam’s club.  They had great prices and bulk items, but you had to bag your own stuff in their boxes.  Kind of a local GFS … Wrestling magazines and pulled pork were among the items sold.

THE PARKMOOR – Dixie Style Chicken, this drive-in diner was a popular Daytonian stop in the 50’s and 60’s.  To this day, people talk about their chicken.  Miss that taste?  Well, the rumor is that Hasty Tasty Pancake House still offers the original Parkmoor Recipe Chicken today !

DUKE’S GOLDEN OX – When the owner of the place is a fixture at the bar, you know this is a special eatery.  Duke’s was original from the A-frame architecture to the drink menu.  Known for their steaks and ribs, we loved the bbq sauce that was almost sweet and tomato like.  The ambiance was an old school supper club mixed with a palm readers lair.  It was spooky, yet cool inside, and you didn’t know what time of day it was outside, as we don’t remember the place having any windows.

WAREHOUSE BEER DRIVE-IN –   The first chain of Dayton drive-thru’s with incredible Soft Pretzels.  Many drive-ins around the area today are just old Warehouse Beer Drive-ins.

STEVE KAO’S – An early, local version of PF Changs, this restaurant was very popular in the 80’s. Unfortunately inconsistent food quality led to diminishing business causing this spot to close. Their Kung Pao choices were terrific and they had some great appetizers too.

 

DRIFTWOOD BOWLING LANES – You wouldn’t think that a Bowling Lane would have good food, but this one did.  This place even had waitresses!  The cabbage rolls and Hot Shot sandwiches drew good lunch crowds.

PIETRO MAURO’S ITALIAN DELI –  Located on Bigger Rd across from the Victoria’s Secret call center, this family owned Italian deli had great breads, cheeses and old world specialties.  From desserts, to stuffed peppers, to great sub sandwiches, we were sorry to see this place go out of business.

 

THE DUTCH PANTRY – We like to describe this as an old time, Amish version of Bob Evans.  Dayton had a few locations including Springfield and Englewood.  Food Adventures enjoyed the waitresses’ old fashioned, Dutch outfits.
The Dutch Pantry

RYANS STEAKHOUSE – The moist bread rolls and the deep fried okra first stole the heart of Daytonians in the 80’s.   The closest ones left are in Columbus and Marion, Ohio.  So you can still grab yourself a fork and enter the trough !

VITO’S – An Italian restaurant located on Dorothy Lane near Delco Park.  They were known for their simple pasta dishes and quality, family owned feel.  We miss the manicotti !

SHADES OF JADE –  The huge “Pu Pu Platter” appetizer sampler was a signature dish of this Chinese restaurant across from Wright State.  Fun decor including running fountains added to dining experience here.

 

MYUNG SUNG – This Huber Heights Chinese restaurant was memorable with a seating area where you could sit on the floor.

THE BBQ HUT – The 298-RIBS phone number, the Broasted Chicken, potatoes and BBQ Specialties made this place a fixture on Wilmington Pike in Kettering.  They gave you that little dinner roll with each meal, that for some reason with a slab of butter was absolute heaven.

When a place had RIBS in their phone number, you know it was good

THE VENETIAN – Great pizzas in this small spot on Stroop Rd. which is now Mama DiSalvos Restaurant!  The stepped up area in the back of the dining room housed a pool table.  They had great french fries too !!

DANIELS PARK ROW – They had the best shrimp scampi on earth.  This restaurant on Patterson Rd. was a throwback to the 50’s supper clubs where women would wear mink coats to dinner.  Good food, dark atmosphere.

 

AL & JOE’S FOODTOWN – Grocery store that was your typical 60’s grocery.  No frills, and the place always smelled like freshly sliced deli meat.

 

LATITUDE 49 – Centerville eatery where the Melting Pot is now.  Latitude 49 had some of the best calamari in the world.  We loved the aquarium decor and miss that place to this day.

BAYOU CAFE – The first Cajun restaurant in Dayton was a late 80’s venture.  This was the first place that your Food Adventurers tried alligator !  The spicy, cajun shrimp was fantastic too.  This site was most recently a Fox n Hound and Harrigans South, as well as a BBQ place.

There was a York Steakhouse inside the Dayton Mall

 

GARTSKA’S –  This Greek based eatery was a fixture in Bellbrook for many years.  Though the restaurant is gone, we haven’t forgotten their diverse menu and many incredible dishes.

 ALEX’s CONTINENTAL INN –   Dancing and music accompanied great food.  They had a couple of streaks, but finally closed within the last couple of years.  The first time Big Ragu ate lobster in a restaurant was here.

CAMBRIDGE INN –  Old style English cafeteria in Centerville, very reminiscent of Neil’s Heritage House.

YORK STEAK HOUSE – Located inside the Dayton mall, this cafeteria style steakhouse served items “a la carte.”  From Steaks to Seafood, this national chain was a staple in the Dayton Mall for many years, and was located just inside the entrance.

EMPIRE FAMILY RESTAURANT – Popular family spot on the corner of County Line Rd and Dorothy Lane.  After closing in the early 90’s it became a great Chinese restaurant called “China House” which also closed a few years later.

 

CHINA HOUSE – They served one of the best dishes we have ever tried called Walnut Shrimp.  Surprisingly, the location closed unceremoniously a few years ago, without warning.  It was located very close to The Greene.

SUTTMILLER’S – An old school supper club on N. Main.  This Dayton icon’s  standard was 70’s food and 70’s hairstyles.

Chmiels hometown family grocers

We miss Chmiel’s, a Family Owned Grocery in Centerville

THE MEAT HOUSE – Where’s the beef?  Everyone at the corner of Stroop and Marshall Rd in Kettering knew this was the meat house.  Whether chicken, pork or steaks they had it all here.  Also, this was one of the first places in Dayton where you could buy pre-formed hamburger patties.

SWEETHEARTS – Ice cream and video game place that we visited as kids.  These were some of our first Food Adventures alone.

GRINDSTONE CHARLEY’S – One of the casualties of the TGI FRIDAYS type restaurant wars.  We guess they couldn’t compete with the clones like O’Charley’s.

CHMIEL’S – Family grocery store in Centerville with a fantastic bakery.  Located on 725, it is now a “Big Lots” store.

The Dayton area had so many good restaurants that are gone, BUT NOT FORGOTTEN …….   Being lifelong Miami Valley residents, our memories of these places will live in our stomachs forever.

DID WE MISS A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS STORY or OUR FIRST INSTALLMENT LAST YEAR (click here to see).?????  WHICH ONES DID WE LEAVE OUT ???

Please comment below with your memories of these places, or any other you would like to mention!

Want more fun with The Food Adventures Crew?  Then check out their Facebook page and “like” them HERE !

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There’s A New Brunch In Town

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Meatloaf, onion, broccolini, and cheddar omelet with a side of gravy. Enjoy it with a Pimm’s Cup or Bloody Mary…or both!

Lily’s Bistro, located at 329 E. Fifth Street in Dayton’s Oregon District, has received their full liquor, beer & wine license and has expanded their Sunday brunch menu to include refreshing brunch cocktails like mimosas, Pimm’s cups, and Bloody Mary’s, as well as a Sunday ‘Family Style” chicken-centric dinner.

 

Owner Lisa Mendenhall says Lily’s had planned to offer a full Sunday bar and a casual Sunday dinner option since they opened last May, but the liquor license had been delayed.  In August, Lily’s decided to move forward with brunch, but could only serve beer.  “It gave us a chance to be creative with some beer cocktails, and our ‘beermosa’ made with dry pear cider and fresh squeezed orange juice has been a hit,” says Assistant Manager Alex Todd.  “However, we are really excited to offer a full bar at brunch as well as during Sunday dinner.”

 

General Manager Emily Mendenhall says that the fried chicken dinner Sunday night is designed for people looking for a laid back, budget friendly meal  “We’re serving things family style.  This means half and whole fried chicken options, bowls of creamy mac ‘n cheese, baskets of jalepeno cheddar cornbread.  Southern influenced comfort food that will change weekly.  There will also be weekly specials.”

 

All of the chicken is local and free-range, something in which Executive Chef Mariah Gahagan takes pride.  “We try to use local, sustainable ingredients as much as possible.  We love the farmer we get these chickens from, plus we like to support local people with great products.”

 

Brunch will be served 11am -3pm and Sunday dinner from 5-9pm. 

Erma Bombeck Writing Competition Offer $500 First Prize

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erma_hdrlogo“Hook ’em with the lead. Hold ’em with laughter.  Exit with a quip they won’t forget.”   ˜ Erma Bombeck

Capture the essence of Erma’s writings and you could win $500 and a free registration to the Erma Bombeck Writers Workshop! 525 writers from 7 different countries and 48 states entered the 2012 competition.

Erma Bombeck, graduated from the University of Dayton in 1949, lived with her husband and family in Centerville, Ohio, and inspired people worldwide with her columns and books about life’s trials and tribulations. Her memory lives on with the Erma Bombeck Writing Competition hosted every two years by the Washington-Centerville Public Library and the Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop hosted by the University of Dayton.

1/6/2014 (8 AM): Erma Bombeck Writing Competition Opens

Eligibility & Rules

Eligibility:
Entries are accepted from anywhere in the world.
Previous contest winners are encouraged to enter.
NEW! Children under 13 are NOT eligible to enter.
Registration to the University of Dayton’s Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop is NOT required to enter the writing competition.
Washington-Centerville Public Library employees, board members, contest judges and their families are not eligible.

Rules:
$15 entry fee.
Entry must be written in English.
Limit one entry total (not per category) per person.
Personal essay must be 450 words or less (entries of more than 450 words will be disqualified).
NEW! Essay must be previously unpublished. Essays must not have been previously published in a blog, book, magazine, website or any other medium.
Essay must be written by one person; no writing teams, ghostwriters or writing partnerships.
Payment and entry must be submitted online using the official online entry form. PayPal link will be visible below when the contest opens.
Hard copy entries will not be accepted and will not be returned if submitted.
Entries must be submitted by 8 AM, EST, February 17, 2014.
All submissions are final! Corrections to and replacements for submitted essays will not be allowed.
By submitting your entry, you guarantee the work was written by you and expresses your original ideas.
Washington-Centerville Public Library reserves the non-exclusive right to publish the winning entries; however, the owner retains ownership rights for future publication.

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How to Enter
Choose one category for entry:
Humor
Human Interest
Write a personal essay of 450 words or less following the judging criteria.
A personal essay “deals lightly, often humorously, with personal experiences, opinions, and prejudices, stressing especially the unusual or novel in attitude and having to do with the various aspects of everyday life.” ˜Phillip Lopate, The Art of the Personal Essay.
After paying the entry fee, you will be directed to the official online entry form where you will be asked to enter your demographic information and essay. The PayPal link will be visible below when the contest opens.

Judging
Entries in the Erma Bombeck Writing Competition are judged in two rounds – first by a panel of volunteer judges from across the United States and Australia, and then by a final judge in each category.
Blind judging is used which means that the author’s name is not on the work as it is being judged.
Meet our esteemed panel of judges. They will be using the following guidelines to score your entry:

All Entries – General Criteria:
Does it have the voice of Erma? Erma knew how to portray the humor in the mundaneness of everyday life.
Is it organized? Does it stay on topic and have well-developed ideas?
Does it have a compelling lead? The piece should “Hook ’em with the lead. Hold ’em with laughter. Exit with a quip they won’t forget.”
Humor Entries:
General criteria as stated above.
Is it funny?
Human Interest Entries:
General criteria as stated above.
Is it true and does it evoke emotion?
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Winners & Prizes
4 first place winners will be selected:
Humor – Global (Regional & International)
Humor – Local (Montgomery County/Dayton, Ohio area)
Human Interest – Global (Regional & International)
Human Interest – Local (Montgomery County/Dayton, Ohio area)
$500 cash prize to winners in all four categories.
First place winners also receive free admission ($395 value) to the Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop hosted by the University of Dayton from April 10 through April 12. First place winners who have already registered and paid for the Workshop will have their registration fee refunded. Winners who are on the Workshop Waiting List or have not registered for the Workshop, will be admitted to the Workshop, if they want to attend.
Winning essays will be published on Washington-Centerville Public Library’s website and in a local newspaper.
Judges will also select several essays for Honorable Mention.
Writers of essays selected for Honorable Mention will receive a competition certificate.
Decisions of the judges are final.
Winners will be announced in late March.

Looking Back At The Best In Visual Art For 2013

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It’s not too late to look back at the best in visual art for 2013. Here are some of my favorites

 

Longing: Sculpture and Photography, curated by Francis Schanberger, Dayton Society of Painters and Sculptors (DSPS)
I wanted to somehow use the terms languid, languorous and louche to describe the photos in this show paired with coy, clever sculptural counterparts. And just lovely in the elegant setting of the recently gussied-up High Street Gallery.

 

Jud_Yalkut_240x162Jud Yalkut: Visions and Sur-Realities, curated by Jeanne Phillip, Gallery 249, Roesch Library 1st & 2nd floor Galleries, and Art Street Gallery, University of Dayton
Almost too much to take in. Heady.

 

Meme: Culture in Transition, curated by Dennie Eagleson and Susan Byrnes, Herndon Gallery, Antioch College
“Artists coming as close as one can to grasping such a speeding concept.”

 

Works on Paper 2012, juror Robert Robbins, Rosewood Arts Centre
Ongoing proof of the region’s artististic mastery of watercolor, drawing, printmaking and photography. Oceans of achingly good lines.
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Construction of Space: Tess Little and Jennifer Rosengarten, self-curated, Dayton Visual Arts Center
Enveloped by swirling jewel and pastel-toned flowers, grasses, weeds and scribbles embedded in a forest of earth, stone, metal. Preternatural.

 

The Fixed Shadow: Camera–less Photography, juried by Carol Panaro-Smith and James Hajicek, The Robert & Elaine Stein Galleries at WSU
How do I love thee, let me count the ways: photograms, scanograms, lumen prints, chemigrams, and photogenic drawings. Mysterious and beautiful.

 

Storm: Paintings by April Gornik, curated by Jane Black, Dayton Art Institute
Spectacular. Too few of these roaring waterscapes by this underappreciated Cleveland-born nationally recognized painter.

 

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Jack Earl: Modern Master – A Retrospective, curated by Charlotte Gordon, Springfield Museum of Art
A keen sense of humor, magical tableaus, regional references, family values. In porcelain. Turned this painting snob into a ceramic stalker.

 

Your Turn: A collaborative exhibition by Bridgette Bogle and Francis Schanberger, self-curated, organized by Peter Benkendorf and Mark Chepp, The Collaboratory
Obvious and not-so-obvious quietly trippy photo and explosive painting pairings by this husband-wife team that made you so fascinated by their shared visual vocabulary that you poke your significant other and say [insert random snarky spousal barb here] as a reality check.

 

TODT: Heartland, presented by Gallery 249 and ArtStreet, University of Dayton
A retrospective of the Cincinnati-born, globally exhibited anonymous artist collective of works depicting a futuristic world controlled by science and government. Possibly on this list for the mere fact that it surprised the students that such bad-ass work was happening in the 90s.

 

Where is the Love I Playing for Change, Video, produced by CityFolk, Music by Puzzle of Light, various Dayton performers.
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Warm, dance-like-nobody’s-watching, beautifully shot.

 

Stanley Lewis: Works on Paper, self-curated, The Robert & Elaine Stein Galleries at WSU
A beautiful mess of the best kind of sure-handed mark-making. Like peering at the world through a “sketchbook” filter. Wonderous.

 

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Streets of Dayton, Video, Reinvention Portraits, Steve Bognar, Julia Reichart and the Reinvention Team, Dayton Art Institute and www.reinventionstories.org.
A riveting looped video that merged three perspectives of travelling up and down the city streets. Literally unraveling and then raveling the city up again and again. Heartpulling. Spectacular.