The Featured Articles

Chop Suey Carryout: The Oldest Chinese Restaurant in Dayton

September 19, 2013 By Dayton937 2 Comments

Something is to be said for a restaurant that has been serving dishes for over 40 years. Chop Suey Carryout at 1465 E. Dorothy Lane in Kettering has quietly done just that. In fact, this eatery is the first place we ever tasted Chinese food. They don’t have a website or even a Facebook page, but they have been cranking out Asian classics and we have been having Food Adventures here since Gerald Ford was President. How has this place stayed in business for so long? The answer is consistently good food and good prices. Their recipes remain identical since the 70’s, and the result is generations of loyal followers.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Chop Suey Carryout was opened in 1973 by a family who had moved to the U.S. from Taiwan. The same family owns the restaurant today, and have kept the location on E. Dorothy Lane for the entire run.

— As the name suggests, it is a great place for carryout. If you must dine-in be prepared for the retro dining room. We voted it “Best Dining Room for filming a scene from Kojak.”

— The prices are reasonable and all dishes come in size Regular or Large. Do yourself a favor, get the regular, it is a good sized portion and will save you some cash.

— All the meals are served in those “little Chinese to-go boxes,” even if you dine-in. It makes for a fun Food Adventure, just grab some chop sticks and go to town.

— Chop Suey Carryout is closed on Sundays, so make sure you hit them up Monday through Saturday til about 9pm.

Shrimp Chop Suey – The Best Chop Suey in Dayton

— Drink selection is very limited. They have a couple of soda brands and maybe a tea.

Now, get ready to wok and roll as FOOD ADVENTURES gives you our…

****MUST EATS !!!****

— CHOP SUEY: Of course ! How can you write an article about this place and not mention their specialty namesake? Answer: YOU CANT ! Unless your a food critic who doesn’t know what they are doing. Our favorite is the Shrimp Chop Suey, but you can get vegetable, pork, chicken or beef varieties. This creamy mixture of cabbage and vegetables is the best chop suey in Dayton. It is served over steamed rice and is very filling.

— CHOW MEIN: This dish is identical to Chop Suey, except it is served over hard Chinese noodles. Again you have vegetable or various meat options. However, we have been eating this dish since we played t-ball and we say go for the Shrimp Chow Mein option (or Chicken if you need a substitute)! The clear sauce on this dish has an amazing flavor and is how we remember it as kids. It is the best chow mein in Dayton and never disappoints.

Fantastic Hot n Sour Soup – be careful, it is always Scalding Hot !

— HOT & SOUR SOUP: Addicting, flavorful ..and SCALDING HOT ! Beware: this is served hot enough to burn your mouth for 20 minutes. The 20 minute wait is worth it, as this hot and sour soup rivals the big name restaurants in town.

— SWEET & SOUR SHRIMP: An old classic served up right by an old restaurant. We don’t know why it is so good, but Big Ragu says it is the best Sweet & Sour dish in the Miami Valley. Maybe it is the lightly crispy, deep fried batter on the shrimp. Or maybe it is the classic, deep red, sweet and sour sauce unlike any other. Secret: we think it is the combination when the two mix. Again, if you are a land lubber and hate seafood.. try the sweet & sour chicken option.

— SESAME CHICKEN: A good flavored sauce covering deep fried, white meat chicken. The sesame sprinkles are the finishing touch. Pour over white rice for sheer heaven.

Sesame Shrimp & all entrees are served in Chinese “to-go” boxes. Easy Chopstick eatin’

Honorable Mention: Egg Foo Young – Chop Suey Carryout is one of the few places in town that serves this dish and does it justice. The same can be said for their Moo Goo Gai Pan. Again, we have been ordering and eating this stuff before anyone twirled a rubix cube, so trust us. Also, the Kung Pao Chicken is great in a pinch. Most recently we tried a dish we have only seen at Chop Suey Carryout called Wor Shue Gai. It is a deep fried chicken dish, with a curious yellow sauce. It needs some spiciness, so we say stick with the ‘Must Eat’ classics !

Some things like disco music and Laverne & Shirley didn’t survive the 70’s. Chop Suey Carryout survived and is still stir frying and high flying today. Wok, don’t run, to this Kettering icon, and try some of our favorites. Discover why after four decades, Daytonians still stand in line for this takeout Food Adventure.

What is your opinion of Chop Suey Carryout? Comment below and tell us your thoughts or menu recommendations.

Want more to take home? Then check out FOOD ADVENTURES on Facebook and “like” us by clicking —>HERE.

Browse through photos of numerous specialties we have sampled over the years. Sorry, no smellivision included…

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Coming up in Dayton Theatre, 9/20 – 9/29

September 19, 2013 By Sarah Caplan Leave a Comment

Hello again! Welcome back and hello! We’ve got three good shows closing this weekend, a couple still running and one getting ready to open. Let’s get right on stage.

Closing This Weekend!

Hairspray!

Dayton Playhouse
The Skinny: This high-spirited musical musical takes place in 1962 in Baltimore, Maryland. Teenager, Tracy Turnblad, dreams of dancing on The Corny Collins Show, a local TV dance program. When Tracy wins a role on the show, she becomes a celebrity overnight. She then launches a campaign to integrate the show. The show deals with injustices of parts of American society in the 1960’s.
Dates: Hairspray runs this weekend, closing Sunday, 9/22.
Tickets: Please visit the Dayton Playhouse website at www.daytonplayhouse.com

Hair

Beavercreek Community Theatre

The Skinny: The American Tribal Love-Rock Musical!This show introduced America to the “Rock musical”, with songs that became standards, such as “The Age Of Aquarius” and “Easy To Be Hard.” Hair focuses on a “tribe” of hippies, touching on several different individual stories, woven throughout with the tragedy of the Vietnam conflict.
Dates: Hairs also closes this weekend, Sunday 9/22.
Tickets: Please visit www.bctheatre.org

First Baptist of Ivy Gap

The Skinny: During WWII, six women gather at the church to roll bandages and plan the church’s 75th anniversary. Overseeing things is Edith, the pastor’s wise-cracking wife who dispenses Red Cross smocks and witty repartee to Luby, whose son is fighting in the Pacific; Mae Ellen, the church’s rebellious organist who wants to quit but hasn’t the courage; Olene, who dreams of a career in Hollywood; Sammy, a shy newcomer with a secret; and Vera, an influential Baptist with a secret of her own. When Luby learns her son has been wounded, she confounds the others by blaming the vulnerable Sammy. Twenty-five years later, our “First Baptist Six” reunite!

Dates: Closing Sunday, 9/22

Tickets: To make ticket reservations, please call the Brookville Flower Shop at 937-833-3531

Opening This Weekend!

Harvey

The Wright State Theatre Company
The Skinny: Elwood P. Dowd is an endlessly pleasant & delightfully eccentric bachelor living in a small town that isn’t quite aware that its newest citizen is a 6’3″ white rabbit named “Harvey,” that only certain people can see.
Dates: Harvey opens Thursday, 9/19 and runs through 9/29
Tickets: Please visit the WSU Theatre Department box office website: http://www.wright.edu/theatre-dance-and-motion-pictures/performances/ticket-information

Currently In Production

Becky’s New Car

The Human Race Theatre Company

The Skinny: Becky Foster is stuck in neutral—middle aged, in middle management and a middling marriage—until an honest misunderstanding with a wealthy widower offers her the chance at an exciting double life…and she takes it. Now she’s frantically juggling to keep her two worlds apart before everything threatens to come crashing down on her. It’s enough to drive Becky off a cliff, and she’s taking the audience along for the ride!

Dates: Running through the 29th.
Tickets: Please visit the Human Race Theatre Company website at www.humanracetheatre.org

A Mighty Fortress Is Our Basement

La Comedia Dinner Theatre

The Skinny: The fourth installment in the popular Church Basement Ladies series takes place in 1960, and reformation is underway. The Church Basement Ladies are once again required to face chance head-on, but they will stand strong in their faith and their friendships.

Dates: Closing 10/27.

Tickets: Please visit the La Comedia website at www.lacomedia.com

Spend Saturday at Taste of Troy

September 18, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Troy Main Street, Inc. presents the 2013 Taste of Troy on Saturday, September 21, 2013 from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The event is held annually in downtown Troy to showcase local restaurants in the picturesque town square.

Visitors can sample the culinary delights of fourteen hometown restaurants, listen to live music, shop at the Downtown Farmers Market, participate in beer and wine tastings, and visit dozens of downtown shops.

Expect to taste a wide range of food from a variety of independent restaurants including Cajun, Italian, Mexican, classic American fare, locally grown and raised, and more. New participants in this year’s Taste of Troy are the recently-opened Pinkies Up Tea House, Country Bulk Barn, Mojo’s Bar & Grill, Olive Oasis, and the Cakery.

“Tastes” for sale include a diverse array of menu items featuring up to three different offerings from each participating restaurant.

To satisfy a hunger for entertainment, several musical performances are scheduled for Prouty Plaza throughout the day. Slated to perform are Rum River Blend, Stephen Orban, Larry Lyons, and Megan Osman.

“Troy is unmatched in the quality and quantity of independent restaurants for a city of its size”, notes Troy Main Street Director Karin Manovich. “The Taste of Troy provides an opportunity for people to sample signature dishes from a wide variety of restaurants while enjoying live music.”

Two downtown establishments, La Piazza and The Caroline, will offer wine and beer tastings on their respective outdoor patios. The Downtown Troy Farmers Market will extend its hours until 2:00PM.

njoy wonderful tastings from the following participants:

A Fat Boyz Pizzaria
Al’s Pizza
The Cakery
The Caroline
Dunaway’s Beef & Ale
La Fiesta
La Piazza
LeDoux’s
Mojos Bar & Grille
Pinkie’s Up Tea House
The Olive Oasis
Winans Chocolates & Coffee

Pioneer Electric Cooperative is a member of the Touchstone Energy® alliance of electric cooperatives nationwide and is this year’s title sponsor. Admission to the Taste of Troy is free and open to the public thanks to their generosity. Gordon Orthodontics will be returning as a sponsor and participant in the event.

Entry into the event is FREE. Tickets for tastings are purchased at the event for $1 each. Menu items cost from 1 to 5 tickets.
For additional information, contact Troy Main Street at 937-339-5455.

Midwest Premiere of ‘Bayou Maharajah’ at Neon Profiles New Orleans Piano Giant

September 17, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Director Lily Keber’s acclaimed new documentary film Bayou Maharajah: The Tragic Genius of James Booker, will be shown on Wednesday, September 18 at 7:30 p.m. at the Neon (130 E. Fifth St., Dayton). Keber will be on hand to introduce the film and lead a discussion about the movie following the screening. Admission is $10. Advance tickets are available at the Neon.

James Booker, “The Piano Prince of New Orleans” who died 30 years ago this fall, was a mercurial figure in New Orleans, a prodigy who was leaving his mark on legendary R&B records while still in his teens. A spectacularly gifted pianist and vocalist whose style melded blues, jazz, soul, gospel and classical influences with New Orleans rhythms, his sound defied categorization.

Booker taught players like Harry Connick, Jr., and Dr. John, who described Booker as “the best black, gay, one-eyed junkie piano genius New Orleans has ever produced.” As a sideman during his career, Booker played with the likes of Fats Domino, King Curtis, T-Bone Walker, Ringo Starr, Maria and Geoff Muldaur, Labelle, Joe Tex (including on his big hit “I Gotcha”), The Coasters, and the Doobie Brothers. His outrageous solo career was characterized by virtuoso performance, his bigger-than-life personality, and onstage performances in his underwear, dishing out drug-fueled conspiracy theories.

The movie includes archival footage of Booker in performance plus reflections by fellow musicians, observers and collaborators from the Crescent City and beyond which include Harry Connick Jr., Dr. John, Allen Toussaint, Irma Thomas, Charles Neville, Hugh Laurie, Douglas Brinkley and many others. The film was introduced at the 2013 South By Southwest festival, where its final screening sold out, and has subsequently sold out screenings at the Film Society at Lincoln Center, Outfest and the Melbourne International Film Festival.

“This winning doc features a can’t miss subject and plenty of performance footage,” said The Hollywood Reporter, calling it a “must see for aficionados of New Orleans music [that is] also accessible to viewers who don’t know a Professor Longhair from a Dr. John.”

For more information on the film, visit bayoumaharajah.com, and for more information on the Neon screening, visit neonmovies.com or call (937) 222-SHOW (7469).

Leo Bistro Makes McClure Official

September 16, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Leo Bistro, the restaurant at The Dayton Art Institute, will go on hiatus for the week leading up to The DAI’s biggest event – the 42^nd Annual Oktoberfest on September 27 – 29. Leo will take a vacation and be closed for business, September 23 – October 1, while the museum grounds and surrounding streets are being fenced; set up with temporary electrical power; and blocked by stages, tents and crowds of fun seekers.

“When Leo Bistro reopens on October 2, it will be fully powered by Elite Catering, and there will be a new, innovative menu that demonstrates what happens when food meets art” said Jane A. Black, Associate Director of The DAI. “You will find daily specials, a children’s menu, a ‘Quick Takes’ menu, and a new wine/bar/appetizer list. There will also be a calendar of exciting new special events taking place at the Bistro.”

The museum remains committed to providing a place where guests may enjoy refreshments whenever the museum is open. A full menu of soups, sandwiches, salads and entrees will be available from 11 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., Tuesday through Friday, and an array of lighter items and beverages will be available until the museum closes at 8 p.m. Leo will introduce a marvelous new weekend brunch menu, served 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturday and noon – 5 p.m. on Sunday.

Renee McClure, owner of Elite Catering

“It’s rather difficult to reach the museum during the fourth week in September, so it is a good time for Leo to take a break from day-to-day operations,” said Renee McClure, Elite Catering’s Chef/Owner, “We will be planning new items for our full-service weekday lunch menu, as well as enticing appetizers and drinks for the afternoon and early evenings. And we have some new-to-the-area food concepts for the weekend that are not to be missed!”

Renee McClure is a Dayton native, growing up in Beavercreek and graduating from Wright State University, with a BS in Business Management. She started Elite Catering in 2000 when her own search for a dynamic caterer left her empty handed. Over the past 13 years, she has spent much of her time not only learning new and creative ways to prepare and serve remarkable food, but also how to showcase it through artistic plate and buffet displays. Today, she shares her joy of great food and design through Elite Catering and now Leo Bistro.

Learn more about the menu and Leo special events when visiting Oktoberfest! The Elite team will offer tastings and give out deals at two new Oktoberfest-related preview events, the Young Professionals happy hour event, 5 – 8 p.m. on Thursday, September 26, and the Business Lunch, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Friday, September 27. They will also be previewing items in the Bistro at the Oktoberfest Preview Party on Friday, September 27, 7 – 9 p.m.

For more information about Leo Bistro, Oktoberfest and The Dayton Art Institute, please visit www.daytonartinstitute.org or call the museum at 937-223-4ART (4278). Be sure to also connect with The Dayton Art Institute on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for additional information, behind-the-scenes photos and exclusive offers. Look for the hashtag #OktoberfestDayton for the latest Oktoberfest updates.

ABOUT THE DAYTON ART INSTITUTE

As one of the Miami Valley’s premier fine art museums, The Dayton Art Institute offers a full range of programming in addition to exhibiting its collection. Galleries hours are Tuesday – Friday, 11 a.m. – 8 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday, noon – 5 p.m. With support from the Chase Endowment Fund, suggested admission to the museum’s permanent collection is $8 adults, $5 seniors, active military and groups. Admission is free for museum members, students (18+ w/ID) and youth (17 and under). Some special exhibitions, programs and events may carry an additional charge and include admission to the museum’s permanent collection as part of that price. Free parking is available at the museum and the facility is fully accessible to physically challenged visitors. The DAI’s Museum Store and Leo Bistro are now open during regular museum hours. For more information, please call 937-223-4ART (4278) or visit www.daytonartinstitute.org. The Ohio Arts Council helped fund this organization with state tax dollars to encourage economic growth, educational excellence and cultural enrichment for all Ohioans. The DAI also receives support from the Montgomery County Arts and Cultural District.

Smash, Snap and Splash are the Sounds of This Fall’s Urban Nights

September 14, 2013 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Art galleries, retailers and other businesses will host special exhibits and other events during Urban Nights.

NOTE: Giant tents will cover downtown streets; more than 100 indoor venues participating in downtown Dayton’s Urban Nights, which takes place today (Sept. 20) rain or shine from 5 to 10 p.m. Follow Urban Nights on Facebook at www.facebook.com/UrbanNightsDayton for regular updates and any last-minute cancellations due to inclement weather.

Tents will cover the three Urban Nights Hotspots (listed below) and activity will take place as planned.

• International Street, Second Street between Main and Jefferson streets: Second Street will be closed to make way for dance performances from a variety of troupes, beer truck featuring import brews and a variety of food vendors.

• Arts Corner, St. Clair and Fourth streets: Fourth Street will be closed to make way for Paint Boxing, presented by CADC Art Gallery and Drake’s Downtown Gym — Home of Jab City Boxing. At 5:30, 6:30 and 7:30 p.m., see boxing demonstrations in a ring in the middle of the street. Then, watch boxers dip their gloves in brightly colored paint and jab and punch a huge canvas to create a piece of art. In addition, enjoy a range of entertainment hosted by nearby businesses, including live entertainment, art exhibits and special sales.

• Live on Five, corner of Fifth and Pine streets in the Oregon District: Check out live music by some of Dayton’s best bands and a fashion show from Sew Dayton and Brim while enjoying a brew from the beer truck.

A map of participating venues and a complete list of their events and specials is available online at www.downtowndayton.org, at info tents located throughout the event area and at participating venues.

*****

Downtown is going to be a lively and noisy (in a good way!) place with all the events going on during Urban Nights from 5-10 p.m. on Friday, Sept 20. More than 100 businesses are participating to make this the best Urban Nights yet. With three hotspots scattered throughout downtown, the streets of our center city are going to be one big party.

Visitors who come to the Arts Corner hotspot on Fourth and St. Clair streets will see boxers fighting in the middle of the street — with a canvas, that is. CADC Art Gallery and Drake’s Downtown Gym—Home of Jab City Boxing are partnering to put on an unusual performing arts event called Paint Boxing. Boxers will dip their gloves into brightly colored paint then “smash” it into a large canvas to create a one-of-a-kind artwork. Onlookers also will be invited to learn basic boxing techniques at Drake’s Gym or paint box a T-Shirt at CADC.

The cameras of many photographers went “snap” to capture fantastic photos of Dayton for the annual Downtown in Focus photo contest. The winners have been chosen, and all photos entries will be on display in the lobby of the Kettering Tower, including the best-in-show winners and the Dayton mayor’s pick for “Dayton Original.” Find out if your top picks match what the judges decided.

Some “splashes” will be heard at the Mini-Midwest Outdoors Experience in Courthouse Square. This event, presented by Five Rivers MetroParks , gives a taste of outdoors experiences offered in Dayton. Visitors can try stand-up paddleboating in the Square’s fountain and slacklining and a mountain bike course in the Square. Over the Edge, sponsored by Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Greater Miami Valley, also will be taking place in the Square. Brave adventurers will be rappelling over the side of the 27-story KeyBank Tower to raise money for the organization. Courthouse Square activities will run until 8 p.m.

Three hotspots will be located throughout downtown. Art vendors, live music, henna art and a special performance of select excerpts from Spamalot by Sinclair’s music and theater departments can be found at Arts Corner. International Street will feature cuisine and dance performances from around the world. Live on Five in the Oregon District will be the live music hub for the night, and downtown stores Brim and Sew Dayton will present a fashion show in between musical acts to celebrate their mutual one-year anniversaries. (A complete schedule for the hotspots is below.)

Check out some of Dayton’s best bands and a fashion show by Brim and Sew Dayton at the hotspot Live on Five in the Oregon District.

More than 30,000 people come downtown to experience Urban Nights, a free event when more than 100 establishments showcase downtown’s numerous offerings. The best way to see as much as possible during Urban Nights is to walk, and Greater Dayton RTA also will provide free event busses to help visitors get around.

A map of participating venues and a complete performance schedule, including a listing of all participating locations’ events and specials, is available online. Follow Urban Nights on Facebook for regular updates and more information.

SEPT. 20 URBAN NIGHTS HOTSPOTS

International Street

Sponsored by Miller-Valentine Group: Celebrating 50 Years

Second Street between Main and Jefferson streets

Enjoy dance performances while you grab an import brew to go along with chow from one of many food vendors.

Dancing in the Street Stage Schedule

5-5:25 p.m.: The Circle Nerdz

5:30-5:55 p.m.: The Beseda Dancers

6-6:25 p.m.: South Dayton Dance Theatre

6:30-6:55 p.m.: Troupe Roja

7-7:25 p.m.: McGovern Ceili Dancers

7:30-7:55 p.m.: Vivian Zumba

8-10 p.m.: Son del Caribe

Arts Corner

Sponsored by Sinclair Community College and DP&L

St. Clair and Fourth streets

Paint Boxing:

Fourth Street will be closed between St. Clair Street and Patterson Boulevard for this special activity, hosted by CADC Art Gallery and Drake’s Downtown Gym—Home of Jab City Boxing and funded by the DDP’s Urban Nights Grant. At 5:30, 6:30 and 7:30 p.m., boxing demonstrations will be performed in the street.

Arts Corner Entertainment

Enjoy a range of entertainment hosted by nearby businesses, including live music, art exhibits, henna art and special sales.

Live on Five

Sponsored by Miami-Jacobs Career College, with media sponsor WYSO 91.3-FM

Corner of Fifth and Pine streets in the Oregon District

Grab a draft brew from the beer truck and rock out to a variety of live bands.

Entertainment Schedule:

5-5:40 p.m.: Yvette “Diva” Williams, featuring Premium Blend

5:40 p.m.: Molotov: Stupid Human Tricks

6- 6:40 p.m.: Seefari

6:40 p.m.: Molotov: Stupid Human Tricks

7-7:40 p.m.: The Eric Jerardi Band

7:40-8 p.m.: Fashion show from Brim and Sew Dayton celebrating both stores’ one-year anniversaries

8-10 p.m.: Meghna & the Majority

The 1880s Are Alive and Well in Dayton

September 13, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Who knew Dayton had gone so retro?

We may have only recently entered the 21^st century, but the turn of the 20^th century is still alive here in Dayton. Thanks to the folks at Five Rivers MetroParks, you can experience what life was like in the 1880s right here in southwest Ohio.

Whoever said “what’s old is new again” obviously lived through the pain of watching fashion recirculate and stared in horrified amazement as his or her children begged and pleaded to purchase an outfit that eerily resembled an ensemble sent packing to Goodwill several decades ago. The same holds true in Dayton today. Know of anyone who knits from yarn they spun themselves and sews their own clothes? And would can their own vegetables for the winter and make their own cheese and soap? Or grow out their beards and curl up their moustaches and brew their own beer? You might refer to them as “hipsters,” but in the 1880s, they were just “people.”

That’s right; your great-great grandfather, who waxed his elegant moustache before snapping his suspenders and hopping on the seat of his fixed-gear bicycle, was a hipster before it was cool. Capitalizing on the re-emergence of the native hipster, Five Rivers MetroParks offers classes to teach you how to grow and pickle and can your own food. You can learn to make cheese and soap and even how to craft a microbrew. It’s all here. In Dayton. Again.

Grow your own

If you are passionate about growing your own food, MetroParks has programs that can help. From tips about seed selection and planting to what to grow in the winter and even community gardening, Five Rivers MetroParks knows how to work with nature and wants to share that knowledge with you. Think you lack green thumbs? Maybe you just need the right instruction. Think about it – all those people living in the late 19^th century didn’t simply wake up one day infused with vast botanical knowledge; they experimented, they failed a few times, but ultimately, they succeeded. They had to. The stakes were a little higher for pioneer who couldn’t simply shrug their shoulders and head to the nearest Wynn Dixie if they killed their sole source of sustenance.

Programs will take you from gardening newbie to horticulture diva and are available many of the facilities in the parks’ system including Wergerzyn Gardens, Cox Arboretum, Carriage Hill and many more. There’s even an annual gardening conference.

And as for resources, visit MetroParks.org for printable brochures with hundreds of tips, suggestions and helpful advice whether you’re starting out or trying grow your greenest garden yet.

It’s all here. At your MetroParks.

Down on the Farm

Food preservation in 2013: Adorable place settings and thoughtful gifts for friends and family. Food preservation in 1880: Avoiding starvation. True, modern living has provided us with the means to live comfortably. Heck, we could obtain essential nutrients from a powdered capsule if we want. But there’s no excitement, adventure or well-meaning intent from ingesting a pill, so people are looking back to the 1800s again, and Five Rivers MetroParks offers programs that will help you live more sustainably by preserving the food you just learned how to grow.

At Carriage Hill MetroPark, members of the canning club learn to preserve fruits and vegetables in an inexpensive and efficient way. Pickling classes are also available at Carriage Hill and Possum Creek MetroParks.

Brewing was an everyday part of life in the 1880s. Carriage Hill also offers “Making Small Beers” where participants discuss the actual brewing process and make some small beers using ingredients like apple, sorghum or maple.

Go Heirloom or Get What You Need

The 2^nd Street Market has all the programming you need to really go retro. With programs on handmade soap making, cheese making, canning and even sewing, knitting and quilting, you will find all of the homesteading skills you need. Check out the Heirloom Skills series of programs at MetroParks.org.

And if all this skill-building, growing, preserving and crafting sounds like too much for you, you are in luck. The vendors at the 2^nd Street Market have done all the work for you.

You can find artisan bakers, canned vegetables or vegetables to can, knitted goods and home-spun yarn, fabrics to make your own clothes, fresh and organic meats like chicken and beef, handmade soaps and cheese, and so much more. More good news: By buying goods at the 2^nd Street Market, you’re supporting local businesses and keeping your dollars at work right here in Dayton. That’s so 1880.

Great-great-grandpa had it right: Use resources wisely and make your own stuff. So go retro. Grow out a curly moustache. Take your horse and carriage (or ride your bike—fixie or otherwise) to a MetroParks facility today for everything you need to “live the dream of the 1890s.” [link to Portlandia]

Christopher’s Restaurant: Saintly and Sinful

September 13, 2013 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Mushroom Bisque one of many homemade soups

Some say the food at Christopher’s Restaurant is like a religious experience. That would make sense because the eatery is named after St. Christopher, the patron saint of travel. Owner/Chef Chip Pritchard and his staff have developed a cult following with the locals, and a favorite stop of foodies who are passing through town. Why? Because it is comfort food. It is not pretentious, just good solid food. We met the owners at a farmer’s market and it has been a favorite Food Adventure stop ever since.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Known for their extensive, fresh menu it is a salad, soup and sandwich lovers paradise.

— Vegetarian and Vegan friendly choices make it a favorite healthy dining spot. Many gluten free menu items to choose from as well.

The Black Bean Burger: not just for vegans anymore

— Breakfast menu that rivals anyplace in Dayton. Most overheard quote at Christopher’s “you gotta come back for breakfast.” Tasty indeed.

— Christopher’s employs two bakers who make the desserts from scratch twice a week. Check the revolving choices and make sure you don’t miss out on these sinful offerings.

— Thursday nights are “theme nights.” Probably our favorite time to visit Christopher’s. Guaranteed great foodstuffs in a fun, inviting atmosphere. Most recently, we went to Caribbean Theme Night on September 12th.

— Christopher’s uses local farms, local produce, naturally raised beef, organic salmon (from Foremost Seafood), local free range eggs, and organic coffee and teas.

Speaking of which, The Big Ragu and crew have to tell you about …. the MUST EATS at CHRISTOPHERS

Many organic items like Ice Teas served with fresh, local mint sprigs

— THE CHRISTOPHER SPECIAL: A bacon sandwich with avocado, tomato, Neufantel cream cheese and bean sprouts. We crave this and get nights sweats thinking about this specialty sandwich.

— THE MEZZA PLATE: House Hummus, falafel, feta cheese chunks, kalamata olives, tomato slices, cucumbers and carrots surrounded by pita chips. This ain’t your grandparents vegetarian menu…

— BUFFALO CHICKEN SOUP: Phenomenal homemade soup with a kick better than Pelé. Eat some and become a Buffalo Soldier like The Big Ragu.

— THE BLACK BEAN BURGER: Even if you are not a vegetarian, you gotta try this delicious and filling burger.

— MUSHROOM BISQUE: One of our all time fave soups is simply divine. Creamy goodness in every spoonful.

— CARROT CAKE: The homemade icing will have you saying “dude, seriously?” Try it, your tummy will thank us.

— BUMBLEBERRY PIE: Strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries. Yes, 3 berries, one pie. Served cold or hot, you can’t lose with this fresh, local creation. Big Ragu approved !

— TWO GOOD BREAKFAST: Two eggs, two pieces of bacon, two pieces of sausage and two pancakes or French toast.

Delicious, Fresh Breakfast Choices

Honorable Mention: Bacon & Tomato Omelette, Honey BBQ Chicken and The “Decent Breakfast” which features choices of fruit or home fries, choice of meat, 2 eggs and a biscuit, toast or English muffin.

This quaint dining establishment is a great place for a date, or a visit with your grandmother. Expect great service, as the staff is friendly and very knowledgeable. The eclectic menu at Christopher’s Restaurant is a great place for a serious eater. From healthy, to vegan, from ethnic to good old fashioned American comfort food, they have it all. It fits the bill for practically any occasion. Best of all, many ingredients are fresh and local. Give it a try next time you are near the corner of Woodman Dr and Dorothy Lane. They are open Monday – Saturday: 7:30am – 9pm. They use organic to make meals that are fantastic.

Browse the many dishes in our photo album below from our many meals at Christopher’s.

Love Facebook? Want some more from your favorite “foodies in their forties?” Then check out Food Adventures on Facebook —> HERE

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Rue Dumaine Dinner Features Treme Cookbook Author

September 10, 2013 By Lisa Grigsby Leave a Comment

If you’re a fan of the HBO series TREME or just a fan of New Orleans food, you are in for a treat on Wed, Oct 2nd when Rue Dumaine welcomes Lolis Eric Elie, a writer for David Simon’s Treme, who has compiled a cookbook of traditional and contemporary recipes titled Treme: Stories and Recipes from the Heart of New Orleans. Recipes come from NOLA restaurants and celebrity chefs who appeared on the show, including Anthony Bourdain, Eric Ripert and David Chang. Broudain wrote the introduction to the book. The cookbook is divided into sections, each told in the voice of one of the characters — from Janette Desautel, the chef, to Antoine Batiste, the trombonist. Elie says he wanted them to have their own chapter so they wouldn’t interrupt each other.

“These are the voices I hear when I walk down the street: ‘Boy, you gotta soak your red beans the night before or otherwise they’re going to take forever to cook. Or you need to put pickle meat in those beans — I don’t know what all this vegetarian stuff is about,’ ” Elie says. “People talk about the fact that they’re sitting in the supermarket line in New Orleans, and people say, ‘How you gonna fix that? White beans and shrimp? What you gonna do with that?’ I don’t think that happens as much in other cities.”

Before writing for the show, Elie produced other projects focused on food and the Treme neighborhood. He authored Smokestack Lightning: Adventures in the Heart of Barbecue Country, which he wrote while working as a road manager for Wynton Marsalis. He also edited Cornbread Nation 2: The United States of Barbecue.

Rue Dumaine is currently taking reservations for the $50 dinner created around the recipes featured in the cookbook including:

Ruth Fertel’s garlicky white shrimp remoulade
Poppy Tooker’s crawfish calas with green garlic mayonnaise
Cochon’s braised pig with stewed turnips and cabbage
Bayona’s Cafe au lait pots de crème with mudslide cookies

Author Elie wil be on hand to chat as well as sign copies of his cookbook, which will be available for purchase.

Land of Illusion Provides The Perfect Fright Night

September 7, 2013 By Lisa Grigsby Leave a Comment

Every now and then being part of DMM has its perks. Thursday night was one of them. The Land of Illusion in Middletown hosted a bunch of media folks for a pre-opening night of fright. We were to arrive at 7pm and as I was driving out to the middle of nowhere, I was really hoping google maps was going to get me there, because as I drove through residential neighborhoods, I was really doubting my decision to attend. Finally I saw a Land of Illusion sign and sighed with relief. And then I drove right past the entrance and entered at the exit. Though I’m told that the traffic on nights they are open will be a good sign you’re heading to the right place, and you are probably more likely to find the entrance than I was.

Upon arrival we were warmly greeted, given a goodie bag and got a little history of the park. Darren, our guide is the son on the owner, and he was quick to point out that he’s only a volunteer, his real job includes building roller coasters for amusement parks (he showed us some construction shots of the new Banshee being built at Kings Island). The LOI started 16 years ago in the backyard of Brett Oakley. Originally called The Middlwtown Haunted Trail, Brett just thought it would be cool to do an event in the woods behind his house and hang out with his friends. Which they did for six years before adding the Temple of Terror. Then they moved to their current location, adopted the the Land of Illusion moniker and started adding attractions. Dr. Pyscho’s Haunted Estate was created from the original house on the land, and is truly haunted.

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Then there’s the Temple of Terror with pitch-dark passageways and a host of rabid bats, spectral skeletons, and monstrous madmen. Scream through a nightmarish labyrinth as hideous horrors claw behind you…next to you…above you…beneath you…all sharing one twisted, bone-sharp wish: that you will remain their ghoulish guest for all eternity.

Killer Klowns came along next, and lets just say these aren’t the kind of clowns that juggle or hand out happy meals! This 3D adventure is full of murderous klowns lurking around every corner with laughing leering faces that will make you rethink your next visit to the circus.

The Voodoo Bayou Shanty was our next stop and while I know I have some creepy relatives, they are nothing like Jim Dubois, great-grandson of Bloody Bill. Dubois tipped his hat, showed us a mouthful of bloody teeth, and pushed open the door to welcome us inside. And what we saw… well you’ll just have to experience it for yourself.

The most know attraction at LOI, The Middletown Haunted Trail, has continued to evolve from it’s 1997 debut. This walk through the woods is filled with eery screams, whining chainsaws, ghouls and ghosts looking for their souls, and zombies wanting to eat you. Twisting and turning through the mile and a quarter of foggy, with blowtorch-wielding madmen in hot pursuit will make you think twice before you take your next walk.

Also new this year, The Vodoo Lounge, which was still getting finishing touches and hadn’t been stocked yet for our visit, looked like a great place to chill between attractions. But by far the addition that will be most appreciated are the brand new bathrooms. A huge upgrade from the wall of port-o-potty’s of years past, the ladies room had 24 stalls and I was assured the men’s room was equally elegantly finished.

On our tour, they saved the best for last, and after 3 hours of walking scares, the thought of a seated attraction was welcomed. As described on LOI’s website:

You just spent the evening running from the worst monsters and demons
of your wildest imagination. Now, it’s time to fight back!

The new Land of Illusion Zombie Sniper Patrol ride gives you the power to actually hunt down and shoot Zombies before they can escape the woods and run wild in the village.
Climb aboard our retrofitted US Army Cargo Truck, settle in behind one of the paintball
gun turrets and take aim and fire at the Zombie invasion as your unit navigates the treacherous woods. Turn back the Zombie Apocalypse! Protect the town from the undead! And pick off these freakish mutants before they pick on you.

The Zombie Sniper Patrol is a separate ride from the cost of your admission ($12.99). While your standard admission ticket gets you unlimited access to four haunted houses and one haunted trail, you’ll need a separate ticket to join this elite hit squad.

I’m not a video gamer, not a huge fan of paintball, but this was a total blast and I can see where it could be addicting! Overall, I have to say I was totally impressed with the entire expereince at Land of Illusion. The “talent” are totally into their characters, the exhibits are elaborate and creative and I have to admit, my heartbeat was on high alert most of the night, and not just from the 3 miles we walked during the tour.

We didnt have time to stop by the Stage of Rage, which will be programmed with entertaiment nightly- bands, escape artists, magincians and more. You can also grab a bite at the Creepy Cafe Concessions.

Admission Rates for LOI:

$34.99 – Friday and Saturday night 8pm -2am
$24.99 – Sunday night (October only) 8pm – 11:30pm – Middletown Haunted Trail closed on Sunday.

Fast Pass (optional)

$15.00 – Allows access to shorter, faster lines on all features including Zombie Sniper Patrol.

Parking is $5 per carload in the gravel lot. Parking proceeds donated to the following non-profit organizations: Somerville Volunteer Fire Department, Madison Athletic Gro LOI may even have some openings for local nonprofit groups to work the parking lot as a fundraiser. If you’ve got a group of 20 or more, you may want to contact them at (513) 423-9960 to schedule your group. Directions to the land of evilness can be found here.

Special thanks to Nate, who held my hand through the scariest parts, Bryan, who screamed louder than anyone and Jodi who squealed and jumped her way through the night with me!

owns and this season they’ve added The Voodoo Bayou Shanty and Club Zombie….along with

Road Trip! (or Vacation in Dayton?)

September 6, 2013 By Scott Sliver 2 Comments

My wife and I recently took a three-week road trip across the southeast United States. 4,400 miles and fifteen states over three weeks. Call me crazy…

For the record, my wife was not initially all that excited about my vision for our one-and-only vacation this year. I assured her we would have ample beach time to balance out all the longish stretches of driving and family visits sprinkled throughout. (You know the old saying coined by Benjamin Franklin about guests and fish? Both begin to smell after three days!)

We would drive a while, check into a hotel, have a meal or two hit the beach and move on. I lived out of a carry-on suitcase the entire time. I travel light.

Aside from a heart-stopping encounter with a colony of Golden Orb “Banana” Spiders at my mom’s home in Summerfield, FL, the trip was otherwise uneventful. No speeding tickets and thankfully, no breakdowns. Even the weather pretty much cooperated except for a torrential downpour that welcomed us to Virginia Beach! (We have a son in the Marine Corp. at Quantico, VA, who took some leave and met us there for a few days.) We also have concentrations of family around Houston and nearby Galveston, TX, and St. Louis, MO.

Along the way, we strolled the streets of Savannah, GA. Browsed historic St. Augustine, FL, ventured down Bourbon Street in New Orleans, searched for “la Petite Roche” (French for “the little rock,” a rock formation used by early river navigators to identify that particular river crossing, now known as Little Rock, AR!), paid a visit to Graceland in Memphis, even harassed some Cardinal fans in St. Louis!

Here’s my takeaway. Dayton stacks up pretty well against any of the cities we visited. Granted, Dayton is no Savannah with all its deep-south charm, history and architecture. Even though both cities have near-identical population of 142,000, Savannah’s River Street Market Place and Arts District are fantastic examples of what Dayton’s Oregon District and RiverScape aspire to be. Visionaries, leaders and community-builders in this region recognize Dayton’s potential and have been working toward a similar outcome for some time, making notable strides along the way!

Beale Street in Memphis exposes the potential of Dayton’s Oregon District… although B.B. King is not likely to open a blues club in our hometown anytime soon. What Memphis has going for them, aside from being nestled against the mighty Mississippi river and boasting of Tom Cruise’s “The Firm” having been filmed there, is a long music history that includes, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, Johnny Cash, and of course, Elvis. Even U2 recorded a few tracks for Rattle and Hum at Sun Studio!

I understand cities have to play to their strengths. Virginia Beach was the first stop on our journey. It’s basically a tourist (beach) destination with a Naval base. Granted, they have nearly TWO HUNDRED years more history than Dayton. Nearby Jamestown, VA was established in 1607. (Dayton, 1796.) VA Beach is your standard touristy beach town with an avenue lined with shops selling boogie boards and beach towels and bars offering happy hour specials. Piercing and tattoo parlors are also beach-strip mainstays.

One of the first categories that I “yelped” (check out yelp.com, a social networking, user review, and local search web site) in VA Beach was “coffee.” My wife is pretty much a Starbucks snob. Nothing else satisfies. Starbucks is easy to find… There were two on the strip. But the local favorite I discovered was Bad A** Coffee, slightly off the beaten path. (Think Ghostlight or Press with a beach flair.) I enjoyed a vanilla latte there early one morning.

St. Augustine, FL, another stop along the way, was first explored in 1513 by Spanish explorer Ponce de León. Founded in 1565, there is deep history, being home to the Castillo de San Marcos, a magnificent star fort constructed mostly out of coquina, (Spanish for “small shells”) ancient shells that have bonded together to form a type of stone similar to limestone. Additionally, this region boasts 42 miles of pristine Atlantic beaches! (How can we complete with THAT?)

My wife’s cousin lives in nearby Jacksonville. She served as our tour guide through the narrow pedestrian-only streets of St. Augustine’s shopping/arts/restaurant/bar/live-music historic district. Home to both the oldest schoolhouse in the United States AND very first Catholic parish in our country!

Have you ever “yelped” Dayton?

It’s so easy to fall into a routine of simply frequenting our favorite restaurants again and again. That’s ok, but consider this…

I once saw a travel piece about “staycationing” in your hometown. It was all about venturing into different parts of town that you may not typically frequent. Instead of defaulting to the mall where you typically shop or defaulting to your favorite restaurant, explore other areas. Enjoy lunch at a café that you have never been to. Check out a park along the way that you may have passed a thousand times, but never bothered to visit. I did this a while back and was pleasantly surprised… even stunned by the beauty of Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark on Siebenthaler Ave. in north Dayton.

Brush up on your hometown history to add a little interest to your day. For instance, DID YOU KNOW that archaeological investigations of the surrounding area suggest that the Miamisburg Mound was constructed by the prehistoric Adena Indians somewhere between 800 BC and AD 100! That’s right in our back yard and I wonder how many locals have actually visited that ancient site? If I were a tourist yelping Dayton and the surrounding areas, that is a factoid I might unearth during my research.

I realize it’s not Stonehenge… (I once heard an Englander refer to Stonehenge as a “pile of rocks on the side of the road!”) Americans are fascinated by Stonehenge. Englanders? Not so much. Such is life.

My quest for the best Memphis barbecue yielded four pits that are held in highest regard. It didn’t matter to me what part of town they were located. I just wanted their best barbecue!

While Dayton may not be known for its barbecue as North Carolina, Kansas City or Texas are renown, Dayton has some solid options. A regional favorite is City Barbecue. Old Hickory is a local mainstay. Up-and-comer OinkADoodleMoo stands ready to satisfy that urge for smoked meat. (Try the burnt ends!) Don’t forget Smokin’

Bar-B-Que at the west end of the Oregon District on Fifth Street at Patterson. Al’s Smokehouse Café is now located downtown on east Third Street, providing barbecue well into the wee hours of the morning on weekends!

(For the record, yes, I have eaten at all of those restaurants.)

But have you ever sampled the best of Huffie’s Bar-B-Que? It’s west of 75 south of 35 off Germantown Pike on McArthur Ave.

I have.

I assured them that I am a SERIOUS bbq guy. (I even own a 55-gallon “ugly drum smoker!”) I ordered a massive sampler platter, which I believe impressed them. I told them I wanted the full “Huffie’s” experience. I told them I searched “best bbq in Dayton” and their establishment was on that short list. This made the guy smile.

If I were just visiting Dayton for a few days, I would sample all that Dayton has to offer. I would end up in different parts of town, at different restaurants, shopping in different areas, absorbing the local history and culture along the way.

I might venture into the far reaches of the Miami Valley to visit Young’s Jersey Dairy or the Clifton Mill. I would definitely take in the National museum of the United States Air Force (it’s FREE!) and visit the Wright Brothers’ memorial (which offers a vista that rivals that of Woodland Cemetery, near U.D.) I’d visit the Oregon District, Brown Street, Second Street Market and Riverscape. I’d check out a couple of Dayton’s many impressive MetroParks.

Dayton is LOADED with great restaurants! Check out DaytonDining for online menus, photos, coupons and real life experiences from Dayton restaurants. (And did I mention Yelp?)

I realize I talk a lot about food and restaurants, but you don’t have to spend a ton of money to participate in what I am suggesting. Dayton’s Five Rivers MetroParks are FREE! And there are a lot of them scattered across the Miami Valley, and, many (if not most) of our local festivals offer free admission.

If you treated Dayton as though you were on vacation, I believe you would approach it differently.

And you would thank me for it.

Special thanks to Wikipedia.com for helping me fill in all the blanks with much needed detail.

Jimmie’s Ladder 11: Great Food in a Historic Firehouse

September 5, 2013 By Dayton937 4 Comments

Jimmie’s Ladder 11 on Brown Street. A “hot time in the old firehouse”

What better place for a Food Adventure than a historic Dayton Firehouse? But atmosphere isn’t everything , you gotta have good eats too. Jimmie’s Ladder 11 at 936 Brown St. is one of Dayton’s best examples of a great menu in a great venue. The restaurant is located in what used to be an old city firehouse back in the days when the engines were run by horse drawn carriages. Dayton Fire Department memorabilia lines the walls of this beautiful dining area. Antique wood floors and walls throughout the building develops a warm, nostalgic feel. But Th e Food Adventure Crew knows, the decor is just the beginning.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Jimmie’s Ladder 11 is located in a historic Dayton Fire Department Building built in 1892.

— Family owned restaurant with a stellar service staff.

— Owner Jimmie Brandell worked at the Upper Krust for 17 years honing his restaurant skills.

— Wide variety of menu choices from Burgers and Sandwiches, to rare Upstate New York favorites

Creole Cheesecake is not a Dessert, it is a Savory Appetizer

— Nice selection of craft beers on tap and in bottles. They even feature a fire hydrant tap.

— Live Music on weekends, showcasing eclectic local bands

— Private Party Loft available for special events or parties

— Outdoor dining area overlooks a bustling Brown Street

Let’s dive into the menu, with FOOD ADVENTURE’s MUST EATS for JIMMIES LADDER 11:

Grab a fork and follow us…

Paisano Pasta Chips – Fresh Deep Fried Pasta, “Italian Nachos”

CREOLE CHEESECAKE – Probably one of the best appetizers in Dayton. This unique menu item is not a dessert. It is a casserole type dish served in slices. The “cheesecake” is stuffed with Andouille Sausage, Shrimp, smoked Gouda, Cream Cheese, Onions, and Peppers. Slightly “fiery,” but mostly rich and tasty.

NEW ORLEANS GUMBO – Made from scratch daily, this hearty gumbo is simply amazing. Bursting with Chicken, Shrimp, and Andouille sausage, this is a “must eat” with the perfect heat. We are addicted and after one cup, you will be too.

VODKA RIGGIES- You won’t find this Upstate New York favorite anywhere else in Dayton. Jimmie’s wife, Sue is from Utica, NY where this dish originated. Creamy tomato sauce is blended with vodka, chicken and rigatoni, then finished with peppers. There is some spiciness to this pasta plate, but we won’t have to hose you down afterwards. One of our favorites for sure.

NEW YORK STYLE CHEESECAKE – One of the best we have ever eaten. Again made from scratch, this is a cross between the Upper Krust Cheesecake and the ones you find in New York City. We love this stuff. Order a piece for a rich, sinful taste of dreaminess.

LADDER 11 SANDWICH – The kitchen starts out with either a hoagie roll or rye bread. They add some Romanian style Pastrami and Corned Beef. Top the whole thing off with the house-made, hand-cut Cole Slaw. The final touch is a drizzle of house-made Russian Dressing. Are you licking your chops yet?

Honorable Mention:

The Hamburger – You might hear fire truck sirens in your head, because for 6 bucks, this platter is a steal.

Tom Turkey – A throwback to the Upper Krust sandwich. You cant go wrong with turkey and creamy house-made cole slaw chopped that day.

Paisano Pasta Chips – Could be described as “Italian Nachos.” Homemade pasta, deep fried and topped with Italian Sausage, Onions, Peppers, Mozzarella and Provolone. The concoction is finished off with a delicious Asiago cream sauce.

New York Style Cheesecake – Unbelievably good

Jimmie’s Ladder 11 is a Dayton original. No trendy stuff here. The Ladder 11 staff has brought together good, affordable food and fun surroundings. They even have great salads and vegetarian choices.

If you have not had a chance to visit this establishment, take some time to check it out. We frequent this place because we love the menu and beer selection. The service is always spot on as well. Got a hungry stomach? Put that fire out by visiting Jimmie’s Ladder 11.

Want some more “hot” scoop from some “fiery foodies”? Then “like” Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking HERE.

Browse through our incredible photos below for a thorough look at the menu. We aren’t a “one dish Trish,” we write informed stories after trying various menu items during numerous visits.

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Dayton’s Party of Parties Takes On Fairytales

September 3, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Dayton’s biggest party, ARC Masquerage, is just six weeks away! The signature event of AIDS Resource Center Ohio, held annually on the third Saturday of October, will take place October 19 in the Colesium at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds (1043 S. Main St., Dayton).

Thousands have attended the elaborate masquerade ball, billed as “Dayton’s party of parties,” since its 2002 inception, helping raise $1.1 million for HIV/AIDS treatment and awareness. This year, Masquerage is expected to bring in $160,000 in unrestricted funding for ARC Ohio, with $90,000 in corporate sponsorship alone. The funds raised will assist individuals infected and affected by HIV/AIDS.

Each year, Masquerage carries a theme which inspires the decor and costume choices. This year’s, “Once Upon a Time…,” puts an adult spin on childhood fairy tales.

A costume isn’t required to attend Masquerage, only a mask or disguise; among the elaborate costumes each year, one can also find attendees in t-shirts and jeans, pajamas, tuxedos and evening gowns, and, well, almost nothing at all. But dressing up is a big part of the fun, and this year’s storybook backdrop is a bottomless wishing well of great possibilities.

If you’re having trouble coming up with an idea, you’re either thinking too much, or not thinking enough. The first thing you should do is break your mind out of the Disney box. Fairy tales go much farther and wider than the Disney Classics. They can be a great foundation to build upon here, but by no means should they be a limit to your choices. Here are some suggestions that go above and beyond Cinderella and Snow White.

http://swoz.deviantart.com/art/Greek-Gods-Cosplay-Ohayocon-2012-284460981

Greek gods in action: a little mythological cosplay.

Each culture has its own fairy tales. Do some research into those. (Western culture is, for example, quite familiar with Rudyard Kipling’s stories from Colonial India.)

Many cultures also have their own mythologies. Think of the leprechaun tales of Irish lore. Remember Iron Man’s Loki? That character is based on Loki, the Norse god of war. Do some looking into the Norse gods, or the fables of West Africa’s Anansi, the spider god. And, of course, the entire Greek mythological universe is fair play here. People looking for a clever group costume could deck themselves out as the Gods of Olympus. (Extra points for a good centaur costume!)

American’s tall tales are frontier fairy tales. Johnny Appleseed, Pecos Bill and Sluefoot Sue, John Henry, Casey Jones: these are American fairy tale heroes.

Another classic American fairy tale is frequently told around Halloween: The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.

Rise to the challenge of being the Gingerbread Man, with a costume made of real candy!

Rumpelstiltskin is similar to a leprechaun. He shouldn’t be forgotten.

Think of the tales you were told as a child. Santa, Mrs. Claus, the reindeer and the elves. The tooth fairy.

Speaking of Christmas, there’s a whole world of characters right there. The Grinch and Cindy Lou Who. Herbie the Elf and Yukon Cornelius. The Abominable Snowman. Heatmiser and Snowmiser. Frosty. Rudolph. The entire cast of The Nutcracker. (How great would it be to see a Sugarplum Fairy and a Rat King?!) And, of course, Ebenezer Scrooge and his spirits. The Midwest loves to shove Christmas in people’s faces before Halloween’s even arrived. Double up your holiday value and get in the Yuletide spirit a little early!

The Wizard of Oz is just one of many modern fairy tales.

Think of the urban legends from your childhood. Trolls under bridges. Bloody Mary. Candyman. The Boogeyman. When you imagined that monster that lived under your bed, what did it look like?

Think of our modern fairy tales that have become pop culture standards, like Edward Scissorhands and The Nightmare Before Christmas, The Wizard of Oz, E.T., Shrek, Toy Story, Mary Poppins, The Princess Bride, The Neverending Story, Labyrinth and The Dark Crystal, even Pan’s Labyrinth. If you stretch that just a little further, one might consider films like Ghostbusters, Beetlejuice, and even Pleasantville (extra points for gray-toning yourself into black and white!) as sources, given their fantasy elements.

Speaking of Tim Burton, let’s try be a little original. Do we really want a party with fifty Johnny Depp Mad Hatters? Do we really? Think about it.
Look past Disney at the animated films from other parts of the world. Japanese anime, for instance, is rife with fantasy elements.

Robert Englund as Freddy Krueger in A Nightmare on Elm Street, perhaps the ultimate modern fairy tale.

The best horror stories are grown from the fairy tale concept of predators masking as safe authority figures who lure heroes into traps. Magical setups, moralistic endings, corruption of innocence, tests of character and strength. This page offers a brief, beautifully drawn presentation of A Nightmare on Elm Street as a dark modern fairy tale “where the enchanted forest is filled with cul de sacs and the gingerbread house looks like a boiler room.” Freddy Kruger haunts children in their dreams, for crying out loud! That’s as fairy tale as it gets.

The horror genre has given us many brilliant fairy tale characters, including Frankenstein and Dracula. They’re right at home within this theme. And following the vampire theme, True Blood, Dark Shadows, and the Buffy-verse (The Gentlemen!) fit as well.

There are, um, many adult possibilities for Pinocchio. (And remember, the Disney version also includes the wicked fox, the Blue Fairy, and Stromboli.)

Look to Shakespeare! A Midsummer Night’s Dream is a wonderful fairy tale everyone knows.

Doctor Who cosplayers! Come on down!

Think of fantasy-related children’s series from the last few decades. My Little Pony, Mighty Max, Care Bears (bonus points if your group has a Mr. Coldheart!), The Smurfs, Sailor Moon, He-Man and She-Ra… Slutty Rainbow Brite and Strawberry Shortcake costumes are always popular this time of year. Here’s another occasion to wiggle into them!

A big-screen adaptation of Stephen Sondheim’s fairy tale musical, Into the Woods, is currently in production starring folks like Meryl Streep, Chris Pine, Johnny Depp, Anna Kendrick, Tracy Ullman, and Emily Blunt in an epic story that weaves together the sagas of Cinderella, Rapunzel, Jack the giant killer, Little Red Riding Hood, and many more. Look to that for inspiration.

Think about the video games you’ve played. The Legend of Zelda, Super Mario Bros., the Final Fantasy series.

Masquerage ’13: The geeks ARE the cool kids.

British author Roald Dahl wrote some fun, innovative stories that have been enjoyed for generations, including Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, James and the Giant Peach, and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. 2013 will prove a disappointing Masquerage indeed without an Oompa Loompa sighting.

Sci-fi and fantasy geeks unite! The hallowed halls of Hogwarts, the ethereal Kingdom of Narnia, and the shadowy forests of Middle Earth shall be made one at Masquerage. (And it would just be so friggin’ cool to see a really well done team of Dementors…)

And finally, if you are thinking of Disney films, don’t forget the supporting characters. The three fairy godmothers from Sleeping Beauty, the mice from Cinderella, the Siamese cats from Lady and the Tramp, the Seven Dwarves, the Magic Mirror.

That’s an awful lot to digest at once, but it’s a great reminder that there are literally thousands of choices under the umbrella of this year’s theme. There’s also no shame in picking a popular, classic fairy tale character — it’s all about adding a personal touch and bringing your individual style into the costume. Putting a new twist on a famous character is a great way to stand out. What would your favorite Disney princess or villain look like in the modern world? As a zombie? In a steampunk setting? As a human/animal hybrid? In a horror setting? Last year’s “Villains and Vixens” Masquerage had no less than a dozen attendees in costume as The Joker (myself included), and each one differed wildly from the next. Find the character that’s best for you, then make it your own. And, most important of all, have fun doing it!

As an added bonus, ticket buyers will find a 20% discount coupon for Halloween Express, on the back of their tickets. As one of Masquerage’s newest sponsors, this year round costume shop which recently opened on St Rt 741, north of the Dayton Mall, across from Applebees, understands the spirit of the event and will be happy to help you pull together your dream costume.

For more Masquerage inspiration follow them on Facebook and on twitter.com/ARC_Masquerage.

Homefull Set To Celebrate 25 Years With Gala Event

September 2, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Today two young children will be playing with their toys on their living room floor. Their favorite cartoon will be streaming through the television. The kids are laughing and sharing their toys with one another. Later, they will go outside and run around the yard, letting their imaginations running as wild as free as any child’s mind should. Their lives are completely free from any cares in the world.

Meanwhile, the parents of those same children are experiencing a different situation. They just received a letter on their front door. They have just two days to pack up all their belongings and leave their home. A home that they have worked to build to provide those children playing outside a safe haven. A home that has collected memories that would last a lifetime. In a moment’s notice-it’s all gone. The parents haven’t been able to pay rent in the recent months leading up to this day. Both have been barely been able to keep food on the table. They have had to make some difficult decisions. Can they afford to pay the power bill?! If so, what bill will they not pay?! Is the gas bill going to be payed?! How our they both going to get to work, because they aren’t able to afford to fill up their vehicles. For many, including in the city of Dayton, these are everyday questions. The uncertainty of everyday living is more stressful than most could ever imagine. Luckily, there is support for those individuals who need it when the worst circumstances occur, like getting the evection notice on the door, or if some of the household bills need to be taken care of. The support is called Homefull.

Homefull, located at Edwin C. Moses Blvd in Dayton, is a nonprofit organization that is working to end homelessness for people mentioned earlier by providing housing, services, advocacy and education. Formally called The Other Place, Homefull is celebrating their 25^th anniversary this year. To honor the milestone, the 25^th Anniversary Gala will be transpiring on September 19^th at the Dayton Art Institute.

Homefull opened their doors to help those in need in 1988 at the Christ Episcopal Church in town. Soon after opening, the organization started to slowly build their shelters to what they are today. One thing has always been the same-to be the support for people who are or about to experience homelessness. The group feverishly works to educate the community about how homelessness happens and what can be done to prevent it. Homefull also works to help provide individuals who are struggling direct services, such as helping them find housing, paying bills and the mortgage by offering assistance. By doing this, Homefull gives guidance to these folks by enrolling them in programs to get them back on their feet. The programs include learning how to budget what you have money wise, providing job development, among others. Homefull have this for their yearly goal:

800 men, women, & children housed
500 dedicated volunteers helping in their organization
100 corporate partners being part of the organization
Accumulate $250,000 in financial support

The 25^th Anniversary Gala being held at the Dayton Art Institute is going to be an evening that will be simply magical as the museum will provide the perfect backdrop for the event. The evening’s mission will be asking one question-what will be possible? To explore that question, chorographer Rodney Veal will be presenting a mind-blowing musical/theatre/dance/visual show that will have the attendees be blown away. Veal’s astounding vision includes presenting a gown that will be completely made out of recycled newspapers. Another featured outfit will have LED lights hanging over the gown. These are just a few things that will be presented as you head to the dinner. While enjoying your dinner you will be hearing great music from local musician Danny Voris along with a special treat that will surely make your evening. Local artwork will be part of the silent auction. Artists such as Amy Kollar Anderson, Erin Holscher Almazan, Mark Echtner, William Jones, Nick Stamas are just a few that will artwork presented, expanding the boundaries of elements from all angles that truly explore what is possible.

September 19^th promises to be an evening that will show all who attend what is truly important-Homefull is doing extraordinary things in the fight against homelessness. The volunteers that are part of the organization express how much of a joy it is to help their fellow neighbors who are of in need. Last year, Homefull helped over 3500 people. More recent success includes more than 400 units are available for supportive housing and chronic homelessness is down by 65%. However, they are more than 1000 men and women a night aren’t able to be so fortunate. By attending the Gala at Dayton Art Institute, you will be doing your part to help the cause. To ensure seating, Homefull said that would like attendees to RSVP as soon as possible, but no later than September 3^rd.

To register to attend, visit homefull.org, or call (937) 293-1945.

Special Events Indoors and Out Part of Sept. 6 First Friday in Downtown Dayton

August 31, 2013 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

CACD is one of many locations that will display artwork during First Friday.

Warm up for Urban Nights by attending downtown Dayton’s next First Friday, held from 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, Sept. 6. Art exhibits, live music, dinner and drink specials, retail sales, and special events will be featured at a variety of downtown venues.

A complete list of what downtown businesses have on tap for First Friday is available on the DDP website. Highlights include:

Internationally known artist Robert Walker will display work at Clash Consignment (521 E. Fifth St.).

The monthly Courteous Mass Ride will meet for two rides this month at Don Crawford Plaza in front of Fifth Third Field, (220 N. Patterson Blvd.). The first will ride leaves at 5:30 p.m. and the second at 7 p.m. This month’s route will go through the heart of downtown and tour part of East Dayton.

The Dayton Visual Arts Center (118 N. Jefferson St.) will be exhbiting Music for Teacups: Colagiovanni and Haviland, a selection of video, artist books and original prints by two artists from Athens, Ohio. The gallery will be open until 8 p.m.

Several restaurants, including Lily’s Bistro pictured here, will offer dining specials and a food truck rally also will be held during First Friday.

Garden Station (509 E. Fourth St.) will be offering an introduction to herbal remedies class at 6 p.m., a compassionate communication workshop at 7 p.m. and live music by Meghna & the Majority at 8 p.m. The Urban Farmer’s Market begins at 5:30 p.m.

The Great Dayton Flood Walk will start at 7 p.m. View vintage photos of the flood, visit buildings that made it through the flood, see high-water marks from 1913 and more. $10 per person. Call 937-274-4749 or email [email protected] for required reservations and meeting location.

Synergy Incubators hosts a food truck rally at 200 S. Jefferson St., featuring many popular local food trucks, music, children’s activities, Hope Foundation Motorcycle Raffle, Inside Out 11M Photobooth and a local artisan marketplace.

The Yellow Cab (700 E. Fourth St.) will feature exhibit “The Art of Music,” with artwork created by musicians and inspired by music. University of Dayton professor Al Carrillo will read his poetry, and an open mic will be available for anyone who wants to perform.

Steel drummer Joseph Glenn, pictured here with saxophonist Tyrone Martin, will again perform on the street during First Friday.

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

45 Seconds From Broadway Review – Dayton Theatre Guild – Scenes From a Polish Restaurant

August 31, 2013 By Russell Florence, Jr. Leave a Comment

The cast of the Dayton Theatre Guild’s production of “45 Seconds From Broadway” (Contributed photo)

Three months ago playwright Tony Kushner and director George C. Wolfe, two Tony-winning masters associated with the acclaimed epic drama “Angels in America” and the musical gem “Caroline, or Change,” met for lunch at the Café Edison, a quaint Midtown Manhattan restaurant located inside the Hotel Edison. As Kushner and Wolfe’s intriguing powwow progressed, I couldn’t help but wonder if they were discussing separate projects or perhaps a new collaboration. But the notion of seeing or overhearing influential artists during a casual, pre-show lunch typifies the cozy, touristy, cross-generational appeal of the Café Edison, a former ballroom commonly known within the New York theater community as the Polish Tea Room. And as the attractive setting for Neil Simon’s funny but flawed 2001 comedy “45 Seconds From Broadway,” the restaurant, particularly its Theatre District ambiance and hospitality, has been favorably brought to life in the Dayton Theatre Guild’s entertaining, often hilarious local premiere.
Directed by Fred Blumenthal and transpiring in four seasonal scenes, “Broadway” could be easily regarded as much ado about nothing. People enter the Polish Tea Room. People leave the Polish Tea Room. Looking for a substantive plot? Not here. In fact, Simon doesn’t provide much closure or significant backstories for most of the characters, predominately consisting of one-dimensional stock characters seemingly inspired by industry folks he must have known over the years. All in all, this mindless, mildly offensive play is second or third-rate Simon. Even so, it remains a Neil Simon creation at its core. You are guaranteed hearty laughs at the mention of a grape. You are guaranteed to be in the company of a few delightful oddballs. You are guaranteed a good time.
The effortlessly jovial Saul Caplan, one of the best Simon interpreters in the Miami Valley, has a ball (without becoming crude or off-putting) as the talkative, wise-cracking Mickey Fox, a legendary comedian in the abrasive vein of Jackie Mason or Don Rickles. Mickey has been approached by a humble British producer (a genially understated K.L. Storer, also providing terrific sound design) to do a London engagement, but is ultimately taken aback by the arrival of his brother Harry (Steve Kantor, nicely paired with Caplan). Sibling disharmony has always been an enticing signature within Simon’s repertoire, particularly “Broadway Bound,” but here it shrivels with overlong tedium. Thankfully, there’s more to enjoy elsewhere in the play as ruminations on love, culture and showbiz are addressed from an assortment of colorful supporting characters.
Debra A. Kent and Debra Strauss are respectively wonderful as gossipy theater enthusiasts Arleen and Cindy, a tight-knit, opinionated duo so infectious I wish Simon would have structured the play around them. Kent’s description of Arleen’s attendance at a backer’s audition from hell is an absolute highlight. Patty Bell and John Spitler, another dynamic duo, are also winning as eccentric couple Rayleen and Charles. Bell, sophisticatedly aloof, will surely give you the giggles in Act 1 when she gingerly dictates Rayleen’s persnickety tea preferences. Spitler, primarily mute and remarkably restrained throughout, exudes hysterical stillness. Dave Nickel and Terry Larson hit the mark as humble married proprietors Bernie and Zelda. Marcus L. Simmons II, adopting a firm dialect, is an endearing presence as burgeoning African playwright Solomon Mantutu. Mary Mykytka as ingénue Megan Woods and Gail Andrews Turner as Broadway star Bessie are amiable in vastly underwritten roles.

Blumenthal’s vision is marred by pacing concerns, particularly stemming from the inability to allow conversations to credibly overlap as in any busy restaurant, but he scores points for dressing and designing one of the finest sets produced by the Guild since relocating to Wayne Avenue. The patrons of the Café Edison would be proud.

“45 Seconds From Broadway” continues through Sept. 8 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. The performance runs 2 hours and 25 minutes with one 15 minute intermission. Friends of the Guild are also featured as extras in certain scenes throughout the course of the run. Tickets are $18 for adults; $16 for seniors; $11 for students. For tickets or more information, call (937) 278-5993 or visit www.daytontheatreguild.org