The Featured Articles

Are You Up For Roma’s Stromboli Challenge?!

February 26, 2023 By Lisa Grigsby

If you think you can chow down on the biggest Stromboli in all of Dayton in less than 30 minutes, it will be free.

The challenge works like this:

You have 30 minutes to consume 36 inches of cheese, pepperoni and sausage stuffed Stromboli (and yes, you can add ingredients if you’d like), with 4 sides of sauce accompanied by 1 soda or water. One person team, no help, no wait a minutes, no breaks – just Pig Out! Can’t consume it in 30 minutes? Then it costs you $40.

Owner Labinot Troni shared with us he has just added a 2nd version of the challenge- you can now do it with a partner but then you must finish in just 15 minutes.

Conquer the challenge? You’ll walk away with a full belly and this t-shirt, being modeled by Labinot.

Roma’s Pizza & Pasta

282 W Central Ave
Springboro, OH, 45066

(937) 790-1000

Hours:
Monday – Saturday
11am – 9pm

KFC’s New $10 Bucket Deal

February 25, 2023 By Dayton937

KFC offers an online-only deal where you can get an 8-piece bucket of fried chicken for $10 when ordering through their website or mobile app.

KFC’s $10 bucket deal includes 8 pieces of KFC’s iconic Original Recipe, bone-in chicken for 10 bucks. The deal is also valid on the brand’s freshly prepared Extra Crispy Tenders with 4 dipping sauces.

Overall, the new offer reflects a 45 percent discount at an average KFC restaurant.

Additionally, KFC is also extending its 2 for $5 KFC Wraps offer for two more weeks, through March 19, 2023, due to popularity and fan demand. This deal is available both digitally and in restaurants.

Lenten Menus have O-Fish-Ally Begun

February 24, 2023 By Dayton937

Lent officially began on Ash Wednesday and restaurants have release menus catering to practicing Christians who load up on seafood dishes for the season

For those unfamiliar, Lent is the six-week period between Ash Wednesday and Easter during which many Christians abstain from eating meat on the holy days of obligation and Fridays. Traditionally, it has marked a period or reflection, fasting and penitence, with many giving up specific things in the weeks leading up to the Easter holiday.

For years, McDonald’s has been a popular Lent option for its Filet-O-Fish sandwich, and now more competitors are wading in.

PHOTO: McDonald’s Filet-O-Fish sandwich.

PHOTO: 3 varieties of shrimp baskets at Long John Silver's.

Long John Silver’s, the seafood-centric fast-casual chain, announced new savings for seafood-loving families with three seasonal specials through April 23.

Shrimp fans have three varieties to choose from for $6 shrimp baskets: a six-piece grilled shrimp basket served on a bed of savory rice with a side; six-piece batter-dipped shrimp served with a choice of one side and two hushpuppies; or crispy breaded popcorn shrimp served with one side and two hushpuppies.

All three of the above shrimp preparations are also available in a $10 shrimp sea-shares box, which includes 15 pieces grilled or battered, or the popcorn shrimp.

Long John Silver’s is also offering a fish and shrimp family feast with 12 batter-dipped shrimp, eight hand-battered, wild-caught Alaska pollock fillets, two family-size sides, and eight hushpuppies.

PHOTO: Two seafood options on the menu at Popeyes for a limited time.

Popeye’s, the fast food spot known for its fried chicken has brought back two fan-favorite seafood offerings for a limited time: the Flounder Fish Sandwich and the Shrimp Tackle Box.

The Flounder Fish Sandwich, first introduced in 2021, now comes in both classic or spicy varieties. It’s made with a light, flakey flounder fillet marinated in Louisiana herbs and spices, dusted in crispy coating and fried, served on a warm, buttery toasted brioche bun with pickles and classic tartar sauce or spicy spread.

The $6 Shrimp Tackle Box comes with eight crispy butterfly shrimp seasoned in Louisiana herbs and spices, served crispy in a Southern breading, paired with a regular side, a hot buttery biscuit and classic tartar sauce.

Smashburger celebrates the 2023 Lenten season by bringing back the Beer Battered Pacific Cod Sandwich. Starting at $7.99, the seasonal Beer Battered Pacific Cod Sandwich features wild-caught Pacific Cod lightly dipped in a signature beer batter, American cheese, lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and creamy tartar sauce on a toasted bun.

Additionally, every Friday from March 3 until Friday, April 7, 2023, Smashburger is offering a buy one, get one free Beer Battered Pacific Cod Sandwich at participating locations.

Smashburger Welcomes Back The Beer Battered Fish Sandwich For 2023 Lenten Season

Church’s Chicken is featuring special offers for those observing Lent and seafood lovers alike with the introduction of multiple seafood meals.

Church’s Chicken Launches $5.99 Butterfly Shrimp Meal And More For 2023 Lenten Season

Starting at $5.99, Church’s Butterfly Shrimp Meal includes 8 Butterfly Shrimp marinated in the brand’s signature seasoning blend, coated with a southern breading and fried crisp and tender. It comes served with a side of cocktail sauce, regular French fries, and a Honey-Butter Biscuit.

You can also enjoy a Butterfly Shrimp & Tenders Meal, which includes 4 Butterfly Shrimp marinated in a signature seasoning blend, coated with a southern-style breading and fried, paired with two crispy Tenders, French fries, cocktail sauce, plus your choice of dipping sauce, and a scratch-made Honey-Butter Biscuit for a suggested price of $6.49.

In addition to the shrimp menu items, a variety of fish offers are on menus at participating restaurants including the Fish Sandwich, a Fish Platter complete with two fish filets, and the Fish & Shrimp Meal boasting one fish filet and four shrimp. Meals come with a side of fries and a Honey-Butter Biscuit and can be upgraded to a combo.

The Crispy Panko Fish Sandwich is back at Wendy’s just in time for the 2023 Lenten season.

Wendy’s Welcomes Back Crispy Panko Fish Sandwich

The seasonal Crispy Panko Fish Sandwich consists of a wild-caught Alaskan Pollock fillet coated in crispy panko breading, and comes topped with lettuce, a slice of American cheese, pickles and creamy dill tartar sauce, on a toasted bun.

Fish Fry-Day? More like Fish Fry-YAY at Bonefish Grill!

Come in and welcome back Fish Fry-Day that features tempura-style hand battered crispy cod and panko-breaded jumbo shrimp, served on a bed of French fries with house-made coleslaw.

Locally Owned Restaurants Len

Company 7 BBQ invites you to enjoy their Fridays in Lent Specials and remember that Penance does not always have to be painful!
Enjoy our very popular Lenten 7oz Yuengling Battered Haddock Filet Sandwich w/2 Sides or as an entree w/2 Sides & Corn Bread. Cheddar or American cheese is available for all sandwiches.

Also available, Tex-Mex Tacos with delicious chunks of Haddock, lettuce, tomato, and cheese with Salsa and Sour Cream on the side with 2 Sides of your choice.

We LOAD up our creamy New England chowder with tenderly smoked clams, potatoes, veggies, and our own special blend of Company 7 seasonings. This is one of our most popular Lenten offerings and is back by popular demand. Many have told us that this is the best New England clam chowder they have ever had so enjoy a cup or bowl.

Home Sweet Home in Englewood will have a Spicy Fish sandwich all Lent made with white beer battered cod, Jalapeño Tarter sauce, Pepperjack cheese, Lettuce!

Rip Rap Roadhouse

Golden deep fried cod and shrimp basket comes with a tangy house made coleslaw and crispy French fries! Served with tarter sauce and cocktail sauce.

Rob’s Restaurant at 705 Arlington Rd, Brookville is offering a special menu:

The Caroline

Sticking to seafood this Lent? We’ve got some great options like our Stuffed Portobello!

It’s an oven-roasted portobello cap filled with crabmeat, spinach, and artichokes & garnished with roasted red pepper sauce.

The Red Carpet Tavern is offering fish specials every Friday during lent! 11-2pm

No meat meals at Salt Block Biscuit Company on Third Street include Tinned Seafoods, Maple Smoked Salmon or our amazing Caesar Salad, all will make you a believer in a satisfying meal. Available all Ash Wednesday & Fridays 10am-4pm. You can Dine-in, or do Carryout with online ordering.

Archer’s Tavern has created a special seafood lovers menu:

And of course you have lots of options for a great Fish Fry! Our guide is chocked full of them!

Funk & Reggae Team Up for Show at The Rose

February 24, 2023 By Dayton937

Psychedelic funk sextet Lettuce and legendary roots reggae band Steel Pulse will unite on a three-week-long coheadlining summer tour for 13 unforgettable shows. They will stop in Huber Heights, OH for a performance at Rose Music Center on Saturday, July 8. Each band will present a full set with support by professional big wave surfer-turned-musician Makua Rothman.

Tickets will go on sale to the public beginning at Noon on Friday, February 24 atTicketmaster.com and RoseMusicCenter.com. The summer tour will feature VIP exclusive pre-show hangouts with both bands, group photo opportunities with both bands, exclusive Steel Pulse & Lettuce collaborative merchandise, and more. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit:http://ffm.to/lettucesteelpulsetour

Both projects are coming off remarkable years and active spring schedules leading up to the summer tour. 2022 saw the release of Unify, Lettuce’s eighth studio album that got the endorsement from legendary funk icon Bootsy Collins who guests on vocals and bass on the anthemic lead single “Keep the Funk Alive.” The group has maintained an active schedule on the road supporting the release of Unify and will have racked up appearances at Jam Cruise; Backwoods Music Festival; a 3-night residency at the celebrated Blue Note Jazz Club in NYC; and a very special performance with the Louisiana Philharmonic and Tower of Power during Jazz Fest before uniting with Steel Pulse.

Formed in 1975, Steel Pulse has amassed 9 GRAMMY nominations and one win throughout their storied career. One of the nominations was for their latest studio offering, Mass Manipulation, which reflects on four decades committed to bettering mankind through music.

The band will trek through club dates with Orange County-based, cross-cultural reggae band Common Kings; a pair of shows in Hawaii; an April 20th show at Red Rocks Amphitheater with The Marley Brothers; an appearance at São Paulo, Brazil’s Encontro das Tribos Festival alongside Wiz Khalifa, Ice Cube & more; and a one-off show in Martinique’s Mizik Nou Live Festival prior to hitting the road with Lettuce.

What may seem like a sonically contrasting pairing on paper excites each project as they cite the co-billed tour as an opportunity to introduce each band to one another’s fan base every night instilling a sense of curiosity and enlightenment. David Hinds, lead singer and guitarist of Steel Pulse, draws comparisons to the group’s 1981 tour with Average White Band. “It’s an experience of going into the unknown that we ourselves first encountered touring with Average White Band 42 years ago,” he says, “I know it left us being far more knowledgeable musicians; tapping into different forms of arrangements.”

Hinds’ mention of Average White Band brings an even more full circle nature to the tour as Adam Deitch, drummer of Lettuce, performed with AWB on drums for three years after studying at Berklee School of Music. As Deitch continues to carry the torch and has solidified himself as one of today’s most revered drummers, he echoes Hinds’ sentiments of anticipation, “It’s a complete honor to be sharing the stage with a legendary band like Steel Pulse. They are powerful musical shamans and we look forward to such a spiritual experience.”

McCoy on Movies: Cocaine Bear

February 24, 2023 By Tabari McCoy

Elizabeth Banks’ horror/dark comedy delivers exactly what it promises to uproarious, unadulterated fun

“This is what happens when you party in the woods in the 1980s!” The titular character lets loose with a little bit of snowfall in a scene from Elizabeth Banks’ inspired by true events dark comedy/horror COCAINE BEAR. Credit: © 2023 Universal Pictures. All rights reserved.

WATCH THE TRAILER HERE:

DIRECTOR: Elizabeth Banks

KEY CAST MEMBERS: Keri Russell, O’Shea Jackson, Jr., Christian Convery, Alden Ehrenreich, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Brooklynn Prince, Isiah Whitlock, Jr. Kristofer Hivju, Hannah Hoekstra, Leo Hanna, J.B. Moore, Aaron Holliday, Ayoola Smart, Kahyun Kim, Margo Martindale and the late Ray Liotta

WEB SITE: https://www.cocainebear.movie/

THE BACK STORY: Inspired by true events – but definitely taking them to previously unforeseen highs (pun intended) – Cocaine Bear takes place in 1985 in the Chattahoochee National Forest. Why? Because that’s where a drug dealer (and millions of dollars of pure, uncut cocaine) crash landed. That’s a problem for Daveed (O’Shea Jackson, Jr.) and Syd (Ray Liotta), a pair of southern drug dealers who cannot afford to upset their Latin American connections by letting all those drugs go missing. That prompts Syd to order Daveed to find Eddie (Alden Ehrenreich) – a.k.a. Daveed’s trying to-go-straight partner and Syd’s son – to leave St. Louis and head towards Chattachoochee.

Syd, Eddie and Daveed won’t be alone in their hunt, however, for the forest happens to be roaming with colorful characters on this particular day. There’s Olaf (Kristopher Hivju) and Elsa (Hannah Hoekstra), an engaged couple hiking their way through the forest, animal specialist Peter (Jesse Tyler Ferguson) and Liz (Margo Martindale) the park ranger who fancies him and the teenage gang of the ponytail (Leo Hanna), the guy in the vest (J.B. Moore) and their leader (Aaron Holiday).

Also in the woods are thirteen year-old duo Dee Dee (Brooklyn Prince) and Henry (Christian Convery), who are about to learn that skipping school was the worst decision they could have made that day. Why? Not just because Dee Dee’s mom Sari (Keri Russell) is going to be very upset with them, but because a black bear has just found massive amounts of cocaine.

If you can’t imagine what’s going to happen next, you should probably look at the title of this movie again and get prepared for a journey unlike anything else you may see in 2023 … Or ever again.

THE REVIEW: In an era full of sequels, re-treads, dystopian futures and superheroes, Cocaine Bear carves out a niche for itself by delivering EXACTLY what its title promises: A 500-pound apex predator coked out of its mind running crazy in the middle of a forest causing hilarious – and at times, gory – chaos.

The bear is obviously the star attraction; what makes director Elizabeth Banks’ film entertaining and not an erratic mess, however, is the work of all the humans around it. The story is easy to follow, the actors deliver solid performances by playing things straight and Banks’ pacing keeps things snapping along so that nothing drags except the victims once the star sinks her claws in them. The laughs happen naturally, the shock moments are effective and not gory for the sake of being gory and the characters are likable enough and more developed than one would expect going in to the film.

Make no mistake, however: Cocaine Bear isn’t trying to be an Academy Award-winning film by any stretch of the imagination. However, it takes a wild concept and makes it an entertaining one from start to finish. Prince and Convery are great young stars to carry the film, Russell is completely believable and Martindale is a hoot as the park ranger. (If only Whitlock, Jr. had found a to work in his trademark catchphrase from The Wire, everything would be complete.)

While the world doesn’t need a sequel, it definitely can have a great time partying down with Cocaine Bear – just make sure the only snorting you’re doing is from laughing and everything should work out just fine.

OVERALL RATING (OUT OF FOUR POSSIBLE BUCKETS OF POPCORN):

Rezash brings ‘Carnage’ and love of Directing to DPH!

February 23, 2023 By Joshua Stucky

Dayton Playhouse Presents ‘God of Carnage!’

For Tim Rezash, there is no place like home….and that means Dayton and its fabulous Playhouse! His next big directing project is ‘God of Carnage’ which will take the stage in March! I was lucky enough to gather info from the Daytonian about his love of theater, desire to direct and connection to DPH.

JS: So Tim, let’s hear a little about you….and your connection to the Dayton Playhouse.

TR: I have been affiliated with DPH for over 30 years, though in two separate periods of time. I first moved to Dayton in 1984, following graduate school, and auditioned for Company at the former DPH building on Third Street. I was cast, and stayed with DPH until moving from the area in 1992, mostly acting but a couple directing things thrown in. I returned about eight years ago and was able to “rehome” myself with the group, serving on the board, various committees, acting, and directing what will soon be five plays since coming back.

JS: And your return to DPH has been celebrated! I know in talking with a few of the cast members for your upcoming ‘God of Carnage’ they are thrilled to be working with you….and they speak highly of your directing style. Why did you choose ‘God of Carnage?’

TR: I have been in love with this play since I first saw it in New York. It was with the first replacement cast and they, and the play, were riveting. It’s one of those plays where you know that things are “going to end badly,” as one of the characters says toward the end of the play, but the ride is so fun that you can just strap yourself in and enjoy! Each character takes their own journey, the stakes are high, and the dialogue is fast paced and exciting.

Cast of ‘Carnage’ preparing for the show!

JS: Ok, so now my interest is piqued! What can I, actually the audience in general….what can they expect from this revered play?

TR: A lot of laughs, the ability to empathize with each character (at least for a while, until they say something to ruin it for you), and some interesting thoughts about how people view the world and the masks they put on. The play’s slug line is “A comedy of manners. . .without the manners.” Sort of says it all. . .

JS: Who doesn’t need to laugh? So you have had quite a lot of theater experience. What are some of the highlights in your background?

TR: I have bachelor’s degrees in both acting and directing, as well as a few advanced degrees in the social sciences. For about eight years, beginning in my mid-thirties, I was a professional actor and director in the Chicago area, including an almost two year stint in “Shear Madness,” one of the longest running plays in many cities across the country. While performing in the Charlotte, NC area, I was twice the recipient of the Metrolina Theatre Association’s Best Actor Award for performances in Glengarry Glen Ross and Doubt. Since returning to Dayton, I have been a four-time recipient of the DPH Blackburn Award for Excellence in Directing, as well as a two-time recipient of Blackburn Awards for Excellence in Acting for performances in 1776 and The Man of LaMancha.

Rezash’s Strong performance in ‘Man of La Mancha!’

JS: To have a director in any theater with that kind of talent and experience is just a huge WOW! With that in mind and knowing your great love of acting…what pulls you toward directing ‘Carnage’?

TR: I find it fascinating to have the opportunity to read a play and to later have the chance to help breathe life into it on the stage. I’m sure there’s a little bit of control freak in me, but I do enjoy the collaborative process of working with so many people to make a performance happen. I love directing ‘God of Carnage.’ and I would say what I would love to direct is whatever is next!

JS: Thank you Tim! Don’t miss this Dayton!

You can catch ‘God of Carnage’ weekends from March 10-19.

Showtimes are Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00; Sundays at 2:00.

Tickets: Adults $20

Seniors/Students/Active Military $18

Dayton Playhouse

1301 E. Siebenthaler

Dayton OH

TICKETS AT: 937-242-8477 or https://daytonplayhouse.thundertix.com/events/194237

Celebrate National Margarita Day, Feb 22nd!

February 22, 2023 By Lisa Grigsby

Margarita’s – they are a staple drink at any Mexican restaurant, and for the most part the only tequila based drink most people can name. Blended with ice or on the rocks, they come in all flavors in a margarita glass, usually with a salted (or in some cases, sugared) rim. For more on the margarita, click here.

National Margarita Day is Wednesday, February 22nd and we’ve put together a list of places in Dayton and the hours they are open so you can find the best margaritas to celebrate today or any day!

Calypso Grill and Smokehouse

Open 11am – 9pm
The Shy Violet Margarita: Tequila, fresh squeezed lime juice, violet infused simple syrup made with fresh picked local violets, and violet liquor.

_{Carmels Bar & Grill}

Open 11am – 2pm

Ice Cold BOBARITAS go down awfully easy when you chill here with some tex/mex appetizers

Chiapas Mexican Grill- Moraine

Open 11am – 10pm

So many Margarita choices-frozen or on the rocks, flavored Margaritas Strawberry •Piña Colada •Peach Raspberry • Mango, the CORONARITA served with a 7oz Corona, Golden or top shelf. 24oz House Margaritas $6.99 and Silver tequila shots $5.00 to celebrate

Chili’s

This National Margarita Day, Chili’s will be serving up a $5 Tequila Trifecta, Straw-Eddy Rita, and Grand Romance Rita (Margarita of the Month) all day. It comes with a Collectible “Rita with the Best” cup (while supplies last) for Guests who order one of the $5 margs.

_{Chuy’s Austin Landing}

Chuy’s isn’t just celebrating one day—now through Feb. 27, you can snag Chuy’s “The Rock” Spicy ‘Rita, made with Dwayne Johnson’s Teremana Tequila infused with jalapenos and mixed with pineapple and lime juice. Can you smell what The Rock is mixing up?

El Meson

Open 11am – 2pm and 4-9pm

Join us Wednesday February 22nd for National Margarita. Featuring a Strawberry Hibiscus Margarita which is available for Lunch and Dinner

_{Elsa’s Mexican Restaurant}

Open 11am – 11pm

You’ve got 6 Elsa’s locations to pick up The Bad Juan – a drink that has been served there since 1979. You can get the traditional Elsa’s margaritas–or choose from one of their many flavors. If you’re celebrating National Margarita Day at home – you can purchase bottles of pre-mixed Bad Juans at are liquor stores, but we gotta warn you- those aren’t nearly as potent.

_{El Toro Mexican Bar and Grill}

Open 11am – 9:30pm

With a dozen Miami Valley locations and five margarita’s to choose from, it’s easy to make this your National Margarita Day Headquarters.

Hooters

If you pay Hooters a visit, you’ll be able to quench your thirst with a $12.50 Legendary Margarita Pitcher, $5 Patrón Shots, $5 Perfect 10 Margarita, $5 Legendary Rita, or a $5 Bosscal Mezcal Tequila.

Jorrge’s Restaurante Cantina

Open 4-9pm
This family open eatery makes some awesome margaritas, frozen or on the rocks and you can get them by the pitcher. Try their flavors- peach, raspberry or strawberry! Over 15 tequilas to choose from.

Lucky Star

Open 3:30-10pm

They will have different Margarita flavors, live music and great food

Mudlick Tap House

Open 4-11pm

Who doesn’t love a cheesy Holiday that celebrates Margaritas? Join us #NationalMargaritaDay and enjoy our Mason Jar Margaritas!

Rusty Taco

Open 11am – 10pm

1822 Brown St Dayton, OH 45409

2760 Towne Drive Beavercreek, OH 45431

National Margarita Day is on they’ll have $2.22 margs! House and Strawberry flavors will be discounted for ONE DAY only!

This will always be our go-to for fantastic Mexican food and the best service ever. Jorrge and Janet will take care of you like family. We got Margaritas, Tacos con Chorizo (unbelievable), and the requisite Flu Shot. — at Jorrge’s Restaurante Cantina.

Dwight Yoakam Joins The Rose Summer Lineup

February 21, 2023 By Dayton937

GRAMMY Award-winning country music star Dwight Yoakam is teaming up with genre-defying group The Mavericks and rising alt-country rockers 49 Winchester for a performance at Rose Music Center at The Heights on Thursday, August 3.

Dwight Yoakam has sold more than 25 million albums worldwide, and he is a 21-time nominated, multiple GRAMMY Award winner. He has 12 gold albums and 9 platinum or multi-platinum albums, with five of those albums topping Billboard’s Country Albums chart and another 14 landing in the Top 10. Nearly 40 of Yoakam’s singles have charted on Billboard, with 14 peaking in the Top 10. Yoakam is a recipient of the Artist of the Year award from the Americana Music Association, the most prestigious award offered by the organization, he will be inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in the Songwriter/Artist category at the 49th anniversary Gala on October 14, 2019 in Nashville, TN.

Yoakam’s self-curated SiriusXM channel, titled Dwight Yoakam and The Bakersfield Beat ‘Where Country Went Mod’ launched in April of 2018. The channel celebrates the Bakersfield sound and those whom it has inspired. Guests have boasted the likes of Post Malone, Lukas Nelson, Beck, Chris Hillman, Jakob Dylan, Mike Nesmith and Mickey Dolans, Dave Alvin, and Jackie DeShannon, among others.

In 2016, Yoakam released his bluegrass album Swimmin’ Pools, Movie Stars… on Sugar Hill Records. Featuring a band of bluegrass luminaries, this album boasts a collection of reinterpreted favorites from his catalogue, as well as a cover of Prince’s “Purple Rain”. Produced by nine-time GRAMMY winner Gary Paczosa (Alison Krauss, Dolly Parton), Jon Randall (songwriter of “Whiskey Lullaby”), and Yoakam himself, and mixed by Chris Lord-Alge, this album reflects the love for bluegrass music that Yoakam developed at an early age in Kentucky and that has inspired him for many years thereafter. In 2018, Yoakam released two songs, “Pretty Horses” and “Then Came Monday” (the latter written with Chris Stapleton).

In addition to his musical career, Yoakam is a formidable film and television actor who has appeared in over 40 feature films, including Sling Blade and Panic Room. Most recently he was on the big screen in Clint Eastwood’s latest film, Cry Macho. He recurred in David E. Kelley’s Amazon series Goliath and appeared in director Steven Soderbergh’s film Logan Lucky with Channing Tatum and Daniel Craig.

The Mavericks, the eclectic rock and country group known for crisscrossing musical boundaries with abandon, has gone through three distinct phases since it was founded in Miami in 1989. An initial period of heady success marked by big hits and critical acclaim in the ‘90s. A long hiatus starting 2003 when the musicians each went their own way. And finally, a triumphant reunion in 2012 which held long enough for them to recently celebrate the band’s 30th anniversary.

Now, The Mavericks have ushered in the fourth phase of their evolution with the #1 Billboard debut of their first-ever, all Spanish album, En Español, released on the band’s own Mono Mundo label. Although all 12 tracks are in Spanish, as the title suggests, the collection represents a diversity of musical styles and cultural traditions, from tender boleros to brassy mariachi to reimagined Afro-Cuban classics. Seven of the tunes are familiar gems drawn from the vast Latin American songbook, while five are originals written or co-written by Malo.

Like the band’s entire body of music, this one album cannot be boxed into a single category. The songs are as diverse as Latin America itself, and as cohesive as the ideal of the American melting pot. To season this rich musical paella, The Mavericks add their signature country/rock/Tex-Mex flavors and a refreshing spontaneity to the mix. En Español flips the band’s usual fusion formula, which adds a striking assortment of genres – salsa, ska, norteño, mariachi, and much more – to its sturdy rock/country base. Now, the foundation is solidly Latin with streaks of irreverent rock and twangy guitars running through it, all branded with the unmistakable Mavericks style.

Tickets will go on sale to the public beginning at 10am on Friday, February 24 atTicketmaster.com and RoseMusicCenter.com.

New S’mac & Cheese Burger from Smashburger

February 19, 2023 By Dayton937

Smashburger takes their comfort food game to a whole new level with the introduction of the new S’mac & Cheese Burger.

The S’mac & Cheese Burger features a certified Angus beef patty topped with Mac n’ Cheese that is smashed on the grill to create a crispy baked cheese layer, plus American cheese on a butter-toasted artisan bun.

For larger appetites, a Double S’mac & Cheese Burger is also available. It comes with two certified Angus beef patties layered with a double portion of Mac n’ Cheese, and two slices of American cheese on a butter-toasted artisan bun.

If beef isn’t your thing, you can also add a scoop of the brand’s Mac & Cheese to your favorite burger just like any other topping – including the brand’s Crispy or Grilled Chicken patty, or Turkey or Black Bean Burger.

To celebrate the launch, fans who order online or through the app now until Monday, March 6, can receive 50 percent off the S’mac & Cheeseburger with code “SMAC50” at participating locations.

Additionally, Smashburger is giving away a select amount of limited-edition macaroni-shaped body pillows, suitable for those needing a little extra comfort these days. Fans can visit Smashburger’s Instagram page and enter for a chance to win an exclusive body pillow inspired by the dish.

You can find the new S’mac & Cheese Burger at participating Smashburger locations nationwide for a limited time through March 6, 2023.

UNIVERSITY OF DAYTON

1200 Brown St.

(937) 985-9262

SHOPES AT ROUTE 725

2315 Miamisburg Centerville Rd.

Dayton, OH 45459

(937) 938-9888

YORK COMMONS
6731 Miller Lane

(937) 387-6564

Artist of the Week: Stephanie Beiser

February 19, 2023 By Bill Franz

ARTIST OF THE WEEK Stephanie Beiser in her studio.

I wanted to meet Stephanie after seeing her work at the Dayton Art Museum’s store and at the Contemporary Dayton’s CoSHOP. Then I heard about her latest project and knew I should visit her studio right away.

Stephanie made 500 bowls for the Empty Bowls event on Thursday, February 23 benefiting House of Bread To get tickets for this event, and one of Stephanie’s bowls, go to https://houseofbread.org/

Although her pottery is amazing, Stephanie tells me she thinks of herself as more of a teacher than a potter.

“When I first came to Dayton I taught at Sinclair and then at Stivers School for the Arts” she told me. “Now I teach pottery at Edison State Community College and for the last six years I also teach at the University of Dayton.”

“I also work part-time at Cornell Studio Supply. That’s sort of part of my own continuing education in ceramic arts because Cornell brings in some of the country’s best ceramic artists for workshops. That gives me the chance to learn new techniques or just to get inspired by the best people in the field.”

Vegan Chef Dinner Offered at Gem City Market

February 19, 2023 By Dayton937

Soul food has undeniably become a staple of American cuisine. Despite the warmth and love we feel when those flavors hit our tastebuds, we now know the ill of effects of how we have come to prepare these traditional dishes. But what if there is a way to sacrifice those effects without sacrificing taste or familiarity?

The Gem City Market is offering you asolution!

Join us and the amazingly talented Your Vegan Chef on Feb 22nd, from 5:30-8:30pm to come find out!

The menu will be Bbq cauliflower bites, Macaroni and Cheese, Collard Greens, and baked beans! The dinner is $20 each, very flavorful, and definitely worth trying! No need to pre-order, just stop by and pick up.

Experience March Madness in Dayton

February 18, 2023 By Guest Contributor

Fun Fact: UD Arena has hosted more NCAA® Tournaments than any other venue in the nation!

There’s no denying it, Dayton is a basketball mecca! March is almost here and that means basketball madness returns to Dayton. In 2023, Dayton will proudly welcome and host the NCAA® First Four® Tournament (March 14 & 15), and the Ohio High School Athletic Association Girls (March 9-11) and Boys (March 17-19) Basketball State Tournaments, as well as community events, coordinated by The Big Hoopla, surrounding the NCAA® First Four® games.

Read on to learn more about all these exciting events and how you can be part of the Madness!

NCAA® First Four®

The Dayton region is the Epicenter of College Basketball, and fans from around the country know that THE ROAD STARTS HERE™! March Madness is alive and well in Dayton – we look forward to welcoming the NCAA® First Four® Tournament back to UD Arena this year AND to hosting the tournament through 2026!

There will be two games in each session (night), on March 14 & 15, and the winners of each game will advance on the road to the Final Four®. We won’t know the schedule of who’s playing in the First Four® Tournament until NCAA® Selection Sunday, on March 12, but we can guarantee the games will played in front of packed houses at UD Arena, where the energy is always electric!

Get your game tickets now, because the First Four® will sell out!

Check out the latest 2023 NCAA TOURNAMENT BRACKETOLOGY at espn.com

The Big Hoopla

In Dayton, college basketball holds a special place in our hearts; get ready for the The Big Hoopla to return to Dayton in 2023. Since 2012, The Big Hoopla has showcased Dayton’s collaborative spirit, basketball unity and affinity for our military heroes serving locally and around the world. The First Four® NCAA® Basketball Tournament presents a tremendous opportunity to come together as a community, and as a country, to celebrate the great things that can be accomplished with teamwork, dedication, and a shared goal. Join in on the fun by participating in one or all three of these planned community activities.

1. Hoopla 4 Miler

Here in Dayton, it’s about more than just basketball, it’s four full days of activities and the first of all those events is the Big Hoopla 4 Miler. On Selection Sunday, March 12, the day begins with a 4-mile run that starts and finishes at the heart of basketball, UD Arena. The course offers skyline views, crosses the Great Miami River, and loops past Carillon Historical Park.

All participants receive a long-sleeve tech tee, a custom finisher medal, free race photos, tons of post-race food. Registration opens at 7:30 a.m., and the race starts at 9 a.m. The top three overall male and female runners will receive a CASH PRIZE, and the top three overall male and female masters (40+), as well as the top three finishers in each age group, receive two (2) tickets to the NCAA First Four® at UD Arena on March 14 & 15, 2023. Follow this link to register online for the race.

2. Hoopla STEM Challenge

Ready to learn and have fun – all for free?! Do your kids wanna shoot some hoops? On Sunday, March 12, bring your family to participate in a FREE basketball ‘hot shot’ and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) education contest with prizes awarded for each shot made! The event is open to boys and girls grades K–8 and will take place at the Dayton Convention Center.

The event ties together the excitement and passion for college basketball to the power of STEM education. Regional and national partners will be on-site to engage students with hands-on science, technology, engineering and math demonstrations, as well as two fun, one-hour shows with award-winning science entertainer Eric Energy at 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Registration is free, and more information will be posted on the event site.

OHSAA Basketball State Tournaments

As if the NCAA® First Four® Tournament Tournament wasn’t exciting enough, Dayton and UD Arena will also be hosting the Ohio High School Athletic Association Girls and Boys Basketball State Tournaments in March! The state’s high school basketball elite will battle it out on the hallowed floor of UD Arena to see who will be named OHSAA Girls & Boys State Basketball Champion! Don’t miss the action.

1. 2022 OHSAA Girls Basketball State Tournament March 9-11, University of Dayton Arena

Thursday, March 9 (State Semifinals): DII – 11 a.m. & 1 p.m., DIV – 6 & 8 p.m.

Friday, March 10 (State Semifinals): DIII – 11 a.m. & 1 p.m., DI – 6 & 8 p.m.

Saturday, March 11 (State Championships): DII – 10:45 a.m., DIV – 2 p.m., DIII – 5:15 p.m., DI – 8:30 p.m.

Girls state tournament all-session tickets are already on sale and can be purchased at the OHSAA ticketing website.

Girls basketball all-session reserved tickets are $112 each, while premium seat tickets are $144 each. Single-session tickets for the girls basketball state tournament go on sale at noon on Sunday, March 5, Single-session general admission tickets are $16 for adults, $12 for students and $20 for premium seats.

2. 2022 OHSAA Boys Basketball State Tournament March 17-19, University of Dayton Arena

Friday, March 17 (State Semifinals): DII – 10:45 a.m. & 2 p.m., DIV – 5:15 & 8:30 p.m.

Saturday, March 18 (State Semifinals): DIII – 10:45 a.m. & 2 p.m., DI – 5:15 & 8:30 p.m.

Sunday, March 19 (State Championships): DII – 10:45 a.m., DIV – 2 p.m., DII – 5:15 p.m., DI – 8:30 p.m.

Boys state tournament all-session tickets are already on sale and may be purchased at the OHSAA ticketing website.

Boys basketball all-session reserved tickets are $168 each, while premium all-session tickets are $216 each. Tickets for the Center Court Club, which include lounge access between games, concession vouchers and seats very near the court are $500 each. Single-session tickets for the Boys Basketball State Tournament go on sale at noon on Sunday, March 12. Single-session adult tickets are $16 for adults, $12 for students and $20 for premium seats.

All ticket prices include parking fees. The University of Dayton Arena is a cashless facility. Tailgating and overnight parking are not permitted.

The Dayton Convention & Visitors Bureau encourages you to get out and enjoy March Madness in person – there’s nothing like the energy and excitement of a live sporting event! Check back here and on the First Four® page of our website for additional information and updates.If you’re traveling to Dayton from out of town for the tournaments, you can find hotel and restaurant listings on our website to help plan your stay. Be sure to also check out the calendar of events, attractions and things to do sections of our website, so that you can explore and make the most of your time in Dayton! You can also download our FREE Visit Dayton App and Destination Dayton Visitors Guide, to have all this information right at your fingertips! Feel free to call us at 937-226-8211 (Monday-Friday) if you have questions about planning your March Madness visit.

This post originally appeared on the Dayton Convention & Visitors Bureau website and is reprinted here with permission.

elé Cake Co- King Cake Headquarters

February 18, 2023 By Lisa Grigsby

ele owners Becky (left) and Melody (right). Photo credit Hannah Poturalski/DBJ

Becky Nels Lewis and Melody Richey met as teenagers while working at Woody’s, where they baked and decorated cakes. Woody’s had a standard menu of the cakes they offered, but Becky says she dreamed of doing fancier designs, and sculpting crazy cakes into different shapes. In 1997 the duo started a home business, A Taste of Elegance, creating wedding cakes.

After Woody’s closed in 1999 the ladies knew it was time to open their own bakery and ele Cake Company was born. Lewis shares that she was a student at the University of Dayton and it was just before her 22nd birthday that they signed the lease for their 700 square foot shop on Alex Bell Road. They expanded that space a few times before eventually opening their current East Dixie headquarters in 2008.

I reached out to Lewis to talk about King Cakes. ele has been making them for about many years, but she shared in the last couple of years the demand for them has really exploded locally. About 10 years ago Lewis & Richey took a trip to New Orleans, a meet of sorts with a network of bakeries that get together to talk trends, tour shops and there they met the owners of Paul’s Pastry Shop from Picayune Mississippi. Paul’s was known for going beyond the traditional cinnamon king cake, and began filling their King Cakes with an assortment of Fruits and Cream Cheese, then topping them with the brightly colored Mardi Gras sugars and sliced almonds. Their business had grown so vast they couldn’t keep up with the orders. So they approached ele to become their official midwest baker, using their recipes to bake and ship the cakes in Ohio, Indiana, Michigan and Pennslvania.

While king cakes have a long history and come in many forms, most people in the U.S. know them as doughnut-shaped cakes topped with icing and generous handfuls of purple, green and yellow sprinkles, the colors of Mardi Gras.

King cake is only eaten during the Carnival season — which begins 12 days after Christmas on Epiphany, the twelfth night of Christmas — and ends on Mardi Gras Day. Mardi Gras — which literally translates to “Fat Tuesday” — is always the day before Ash Wednesday. King cake tends to be a brioche-like dough swirled with cinnamon and cream cheese, braided and then baked into a circular or oval ring — to resemble a king’s crown — and finished with icing and sprinkles. Sometimes king cakes are filled or topped with fruit, and there’s typically a plastic baby inside these ones, too. The plastic baby is reportedly meant to symbolize baby Jesus. Whoever finds the baby — or whatever hidden item is baked or embedded in the cake — in their slice is crowned “king” for the day. Tradition says hat getting the baby means they have to provide the next king cake or host the next party — so the celebrations continue throughout the season.

Becky shares that King Cake season doesn’t really take off in Dayton until about a week before Fat Tuesday. But it’s now in high swing and the are working to keep up with all the orders.

You’ve got until Sun, Feb 19th to order your cake for pick up on Tuesday. Place your order online here.

When it comes to ordering you have options. A Medium King Cake serves 16-20 one-inch slices for $19.99 or a Large King Cake serves 25-35 one-inch slices for $35.99. Then the next decision you need to make is filling. Fruit flavors include apple, blueberry and cherry. lemon, peach or raspberry. Or pick a Chocolate Bavarian, Mississippi Mudpie or my favorite the Pecan Praline.

Not familiar with King Cake? Pick up a small packaged slice to try it out at one of ele’s three locations. Oh, and tell them DaytonDining sent you!

West Carrollton
810 E. Dixie Drive

Monday-Saturday 7am-7pm
Sunday 9am-5pm

Beavercreek
1279 N. Fairfield Rd

Monday-Friday 9am-7pm
Saturday 9am-5pm

Austin Landing
3680 Rigby Rd

Monday 9am-7pm
Tuesday 9am-9pm
Wednesday-Saturday 9am-10pm
Sunday 9am-5pm

Bistro Hours:
Tuesday 11am-9pm
Wednesday-Friday 11am-10pm
Saturday 9am-10pm
Sunday 9am-3pm

East Monument Ave to be closed for up to four months

February 17, 2023 By Dayton937

According to a press release from the City of Dayton beginning Monday, Feb. 20, Monument Avenue between Keowee Street and Findlay Street will be closed to through traffic. A Department of Water contractor will be installing a new water line from Findlay Street to the City of Dayton Ottawa Yards Entrance.

A detour using First, Findlay and Keowee Streets will be posted. Monument Avenue will remain open to local traffic between Keowee Street and the Ottawa Yards Entrance. The closure is expected to last approximately four months.

Newly Announced: Dayton Battle of the Bands Finale line-up is set!

February 17, 2023 By Dayton937

The 3rd annual Dayton Battle of the Bands Finale is happening on March 11, 2023 at The Brightside, and the line-up is now set. After 6 weeks of competition at The Brightside, the top 6 bands will compete in one amazing show!

The finalists include the following bands (alphabetical order – not performance order of the night)

– Crabswithoutlegs
– Josh Webb & The Home Sown Band
– The Luv Locz Experiment
– R3G
– Sam King & The Suspects
– Wreck League

Not familiar with any of the bands participating? That’s the fun! This entire series is a fun way to check out new, local, original music!

How does it work? Each ticket buyer gets one vote (in person). You’ll be asked to rank your top 3 bands in 1st, 2nd and 3rd places. Unlike the rounds, which were a combination of judge and audience votes, the finale is decided by the audience only.

The grand prize is an EP session at Dayton Sound Studios, the title sponsor of this series. The grand prize winner also gets to perform at Levitt Pavilion Dayton during the summer 2023 concert season, a merch package from Little Monster Printing, pizza for rehearsals from Dayton Pizza Factory & $1000 cash prize.

HOW TO GO?
March 11, 2023
Doors 6pm. Show 7pm.
Music starts at 7pm – we highly recommend you get there by 7 to see all the bands perform.
The Brightside (905 E 3rd St, Dayton)
Tickets are $15 advance
$20 at the door.
Note: Advance tickets are recommended (this event has sold out!)
Ticket link – https://www.venuepilot.co/events/70559/orders/new

Do You Have A Great Toast To Share At Dublin Pub ?

February 17, 2023 By Lisa Grigsby

Leading up to the 25th anniversary St Patrick’s Day Celebration, the Dublin Pub has introduced a new way to personalize your Guinness!

The Guinness STOUTie allows you to print any image, selfie or text on your next pint! The STOUTie pushes the boundaries, using technology to add natural malt extract to the top of each Guinness pint to create the chosen design.

It’s so easy to do, just scan the QR code they have posted at the bar, upload your image and hit send and within about a minute your personalized perfectly poured Guinness will appear.

You can try it out for yourself anytime in the next month. Maybe you want to try it out on the night of the Great Guinness Toast coming up on Sat, February 18th at 11pm.

This Toast takes place pubs and bars all across the country. The winner of the toast competition becomes the Great Guinness ToastMaster 2023 and will win a free pint of Guinness a day for a year.

To compete simply sign up before 9 PM on Saturday February 18 at the front door of Dublin Pub. At 10 PM we will start the ToastMaster competition. You will simply read your toast on stage like a superstar and finish with a mighty cheer “Slainte!!” (pronounced Slan-Che). The competition is simple to win. The winner of the competition wins by audience applause, so if you want to be crowned the Great Guinness ToastMaster 2023, you should bring as many friends as possible.

Live music by Dogwood Road from Columbus and the event will be hosted by Jim Bucher www.buchtvguy.com .