Dayton Most Metro

Things to do in Dayton | Restaurants, Theatre, Music and More

Joshua Stucky

And the Oscar goes to….A White Man.

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The Year of the Woman. The Decade of Color. The Wave of Change. Ummmm….well…not to be a JOKER, but what gives in Hollywood? By now you have heard the outcry of ‘White Male Oscar Party!’ The New York Times has an excellent article all about it. What does it really mean? And as the debate rages about the Relevance of the Academy Awards today, (check into NPR), it leaves us all a little perplexed. If our movies reflect our society, is something wrong with the movies? Society? Perception? Probably the latter…we have been down this road many, many times before.


Think about this….in acting categories alone, there have been 1200 to 1500 nominations since the awards got their start….and, wait for it, to date, less than 80 winners have been of color.

And then the dreadful Greta Gerwig snub for ‘Little Women.’ The movie garnered 6 nominations…but no director, because evidently, it just happened on its own.

Before I press forward, let me state, I’m not a film critic, I did take film appreciation. I’m not an acting expert, I’ve been in plenty of plays. I’m not one to see every film, I do love Netflix. What I am is the very person that Hollywood wants to reach! The average movie-goer hoping to be entertained and even educated from time to time.

This time, Hollywood needs the education. We are in a precarious time in this country. Women are at a true crossroads, politically and socially. People of color are under-represented and their voices lost in others’ misleading tweets.

So who do we look to? The Movies! To celebrate the underdogs. To make more movies about those people who need to be seen, heard and understood. And then, when those films are made, we need Hollywood to buoy them, praise them and bring them accolades that prove ‘all types of us matter.’ If not Hollywood. WHO?

Which brings us to our very own Julia Reichert! Let’s hear it for the GIRL! I know we are all giddy with excitement thinking that one of our own can take home an OSCAR and she’s a woman….W O M A N! (Shout out to Steve Bognar, who we love too, but this is about her right now!) And if ever there was a lady who girls can look up to and see their potential, it’s Julia!

What does all of this mean…the outrage, the disappointment, the white male party on Sunday, February 9th….I think it means this….

Pray that Hollywood picks the BEST of what they have deemed the best. Let’s hope they see, hear and understand what the world is saying! (And secretly, root for Cynthia Erivo in HARRIET…much like the lady she portrayed, maybe she can show the world that we are all part of the party!!)

 

The Oscars will air LIVE SUNDAY FEBRUARY 9 8e|5p on ABC and will be televised live in more than 225 countries and territories worldwide…where there are a multitude of races, genders, and sexual preferences!

$2,000,000 in Donations Later, the RubiGirls Remain Humble

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Saturday, November 30th, the RubiGirls take the stage for their 23rd Annual ‘The Show Must Go On!’ The show, which was originally titled ‘To Care is To Cure,’ has become, for many, a Holiday Tradition.

‘What better way to give than to be entertained, laugh a lot and know your donations are helping people right here in the Miami Valley.’ says RubiFan, Brad Justice. ‘It’s exciting to be part of the energy at the show! Who doesn’t love Dana, Fonda and all the other Crazies!’

This year’s event takes place at the Brightside Event Space. Doors open at 7pm and the show kicks off at 8pm. The theme this year is ‘The RubiGirls in GAY as HELL!’

‘We had a record-breaking sell-out.’ says Brent Johnson, aka India Summer. Within 10 days we sold 90% of our tickets. ‘It’s humbling to know that people love our mission and see beyond the frivolity to the philanthropy!’

Speaking of Philanthropy, the RubiGirls were just awarded the Association of Fundraising Professionals Philanthropy Award. ‘It’s really a big deal.’ Says Tim Farquhar, Rubi’s Fonda Peters. We have worked really hard! We were never looking to receive awards or accolades, but just to keep our eyes on helping people.’ And help they have.

On the 30th, the RubiGirls will take in their 2,000,000th dollar. Driven by their mission, the RubiGirls have branched out from HIV/AIDS only donations, to helping all kinds of people across the Dayton Area…and beyond.

‘So many people know our history. Thirty-Five years in the making, we were here during the HIV crisis, through the fight for marriage equality and now, our hope is to change the atmosphere of intolerance and injustice in the US.’ Josh Stucky stated. Stucky is the sole RubiGirl to be with the group all 35 years. Farquhar took a brief break in the 90’s.

‘I feel like for Tim and me, we’ve seen the best of Rubi and the harder times. The harder times were those years when we wanted people to take us seriously as we asked for money in women’s clothing! I believe it was the persistence and the laughter that made it possible to help so many folks!’ he adds.

Many people have worried that the RubiGirls would fade away as the years past. ‘Heck no!’ says Jacob Sams, aka Jackie O. ‘The elder Girls have taught us all about fund-raising, philanthropy and the gift that Rubi really is to the community!’ O is one of the newer, younger RubiGirls, hell-bent on seeing it through for another generation. ‘There are always going to be people who need and we want to provide!’

This year’s show looks to be another hoot! New choreography, more parody and even a little classic Rubi will complete the line-up. ‘We are keeping it fresh, but we realize there are staples to these shows!’ says Alex Everett, Rubi’s Minnie Skirt.

The RubiGirls never seem to lose sight of their vision. Through dedication, cooperation and eyelashes these Daytonians have become models for performance groups across the country.  ‘A Different Way to Make A Difference,’ is their battle-cry, and they certainly live by it!

The RubiGirls are a non-profit 501c3. To donate to the RubiGirls simply go to their Facebook Page or therubigirls.com. Merchandise is also available through their Website!  You can also reach the RubiGirls by email at [email protected].

Dayton’s First Her/History Awards Shine Brightly!

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Dayton is known for flight, code-breaking machines, cash registers & the initial fight for LGBT Marriage. Wait, what? Surprised? We all are.

An African-American lesbian couple from Dayton, Ohio sued for a whopping $100,000,000 in the 1970’s for the right to marry. They didn’t win, but the wheels were put in motion!

The richness of Dayton’s stories was celebrated in high fashion at the first ever Greater Dayton LGBTQ Her/History Awards on October 24th at the Brightside. Awards were given in multiple categories ranging from the ‘Fight for Gay Rights’ to ‘AIDS Activism.’

‘I had heard that San Francisco was recording their LGBT history so it would not be lost over time.’ Says Sue Elam, one of the founders of the awards. ‘ I thought, Dayton has a rich LGBT history, and we need to do the same.’

‘As Sue was working towards her vision, I was thinking along the same lines.’ Says Jerry Mallicoat. ‘We were complete strangers walking towards an protest downtown and struck up a conversation. It was meant to be. And what sealed the deal was the fact we shared a birthday!’ Mallicoat and Elam are both well-respected LGBT activists and advocates in the Dayton area. ‘We were on a path and we could see how taking time to interview Daytonians about their LGBT experiences and successes should be shared.’ Mallicoat goes on to say, ‘People were willing to share with us, and what we learned was so exciting and surprising. Dayton has a strong, active and connected gay community.’

A committee was formed to move forward with some kind of recognition of those in Dayton who have made a difference for the LGBT community. Melissa Rodriguez and Jordan Ailes were part of that committee. ‘It became such a family. We all worked together to make this happen.’ Says Rodriguez.  ‘We knew we could make something special out of this where people could network, meet and expand their lives through the Her/History awards.’Ailes added.And it worked.

All Awards need a catchy name…think Emmy or Oscar….for the Dayton LGBTQ+ community, it’s the RUBI Award, fondly named for Dayton’s Own RubiGirls. ‘We wanted a name that would encompass charity, bravery and community service. The RubiGirls epitomize that!’ says Jim McKinnon, archivist and committee member.

‘What I had envisioned,’ Elam shares, ‘was a series of markers on buildings around the city where important LGBT events took place. I had mentioned it to Mayor Whaley and she actually came back with the idea of a celebratory dinner. A place where we could acknowledge our accomplishments. It was genius!’

‘I knew we needed time, and when we settled on this idea, it was to close to June, which is Pride Month. I remembered that October is LGBTQ+ history month and thought maybe we could pull it off!’ Says Mallicoat. ‘It was risky, but as a group, more of a family, the committee was ready to see it though.’
The awards show shocked even the committee members. ‘So much love was in that room. All of us were exhausted, but together you could feel the appreciation and love from all attendees. Such a community.’ Rodriguez stated.

‘What struck me was the struggles of many in that room. Their stories were bought to light and people, especially young people, got to understand what the LGBTQ community has seen and been through. It was amazing!’
And it was sold-out….which also shocked the committee!

Recipients included the Neon Movies, Mary Wiseman, Dr. Robert L. Brandt Jr., Amanda Kayne, Larry and Clara Rezash, the Gatlyn-Dame Group, Mayor Nan Whaley among many others.

Stories were shared about losing friends to HIV, protests in and around Dayton, humble beginnings of organizations like Artemis and personal struggles for acceptance. Some of the stories caught the audience by surprise. ‘For me, it was emotional to relive some of those moments. There is still pain to deal with regarding religion, bigotry and suppression.’ Mallicoat said.

‘The stories told struck a chord. One of the audience members, Shane Juhl, an ally of the community, stopped me afterward to tell me he had no idea of the struggles and achievements of the Dayton area LGBTQ community. Having said that, it means a lot knowing he is there for us as a community! He gets why it’s so important.’

The Dayton LGBTQ community has much planned for the coming year with a Veterans recognition program in November as well as a health summit being planned.  The awards will be annual and Rodriguez assures, ‘We will knock it out of the ballpark next year. People loved this year, but they ain’t seen nothing yet!’ Ailes chimed in, ‘There are many more stories to tell. Military, businesses and others who will be elevated by sharing their journeys at the event. One participant put it like this, “Being in the room, all of us sharing a history, you felt like you belonged there. It was magical and I cannot wait to hear more.” ‘

If you are interested in getting involved with the committee contact [email protected]. And keep your ears open, as Sue Elam is looking into a LGBT Dayton History podcast.

Here’s the full list of this year’s recipients:

DAYTON=Love. It’s why we love Dayton!

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Anger. Fear. Disappointment. Concern. Care. Kindness. Revenge.
GRIEF. GRIEF. GRIEF.
It’s a rough word….its not one we do well. How do we grieve? Do we tell the world we are strong and we will survive? (We will.) Do we rise up and make our political voices heard? (We will.) Do we raise money and raise awareness? (We will!)

Do we hug our neighbors, hold their hands and cry together….WE MUST!

Dayton has had her share, no, MORE than her share of tribulations of late. Tornados, KKK…and now a mindless, stupid shooting. You can feel the tightness of the community, being stretched to the limit. Will we break? (We won’t.) It’s in us to move forward, together. WE ARE A FAMILY. Think about that…we are a FAMILY! A family made of all colors, all genders, all religions, all views & all LOVES! Dayton=Love! And despite the attempts of many, LOVE CONTINUES TO WIN IN OUR CITY!

Know these names…THEY ARE OUR FAMILY…Lois L. Oglesby, Saeed Saleh, Derrick R. Fudge, Logan Turner, Megan Betts, Nicholas P. Cumer, Thomas J. McNichols, Beatrice N. Warren-Curtis & Monica E. Brickhouse.

They were enjoying OUR CITY. OUR VIBE, OUR LOVE. As we move forward together, we must continue where they cannot. We have to take the time to grieve, not immediately push these feelings aside. They are in us for a reason. To make us move forward together. To remind us of them…those in our family, now gone.

Today we see a world where what we believed to be true, isn’t. We see a trust that is broken. We see a time when what was clear is now murky. The only cure is grieving…..GRIEF makes us resilient. It creates a strength unlike any other we will know. It makes us lean into our brothers and sisters for support. It takes us to a place of seeing we cannot succeed alone as well as we can with our FAMILY!

We cannot bring them back. We can’t. Hardest lesson to accept. We cannot erase what has happened to us…our FAMILY. We cannot reason with irrational. But, we can do the one thing we have the power to do today, tomorrow and for our days ahead….we can LIVE our LIVES in hopes of making the FUTURE of this FAMILY, of our Beloved DAYTON better…..and brighter. God Bless all of them and their loved ones. Never, never forget, but together let’s move forward! WE ARE DAYTON…..and DAYTON=LOVE!

8 ‘Girls,’ One Crown….Miss Rubicon Returns.

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Dayton’s Beloved RubiGirls

There’s a different kind of ‘Game of Thrones’ happening this weekend at Masque. For the first time since 1996, the RubiGirls will pick a Queen in the Miss Rubicon, 2019 drag pageant. The event, Sunday May 19th, will be a pageant unlike any other in Dayton. This pageant focuses squarely on camp and crazy! Categories range from ‘Parade of Nations’ to ‘Gem City Evening Gown.
‘Our theme this year is UNITED. It’s fitting considering the environment many our facing.’ Says Francine Du Bois, Miss Rubicon 1990. ‘The contestants start in a parade of national costumes, move into state costumes, do their chosen talents, and end the show in Gem City Evening Wear! Knowing the RubiGirls, I assure you the costumes will be over the top…and possibly ridiculous.’

Miss Rubicon 1991, India Summer will be on hand.

The Pageant got its start in 1989 on Rubicon Street when the emerging RubiGirls were in their mid-twenties. ‘We hadn’t raised a dime at that time…it was all about fun and madness.’ says contestant Fonda Peters. ‘Here we are in 2019, about to celebrate helping groups around the area, state and country with $2,000,000 in total donations. It’s such a landmark!’

‘I see it this way, the RubiGirls have remained inspirational through all kinds of trying times. For many of us, it has been 35 years of performing.’ says Anita Beer, Miss Rubicon 1993. ‘We have remained committed to helping folks off all walks of life.’

The pageant kicks off at 1:30pm, doors open at 1:00pm. The crowning will take place around 4 at the after party ‘tea dance.’ The pageant cost $25 for the show and the tea dance. Tickets for just tea dance are $10.

‘Tea Dances’ are growing in popularity across the country, and Dayton needs one.’ says Penni Sillin, Miss Rubicon 1995. ‘We are hoping it takes off so it can be more consistent in the community. They are a great way to make Sunday a true Funday!’

Pia and Fonda looking for fun this weekend!

The pageant has drawn 8 contestants in hopes of winning the crown. ‘8 is really perfect. And with the 5 judges in place, it will be a fair, fun and unforgettable night.’ Says India Summer, Miss Rubicon 1991. ‘All of the living Rubicon Queens* will be there. And even more exciting, many of the past performers are returning to say hello! (*Miss Rubicon, 1992, Esther Price passed away a few years ago.) I can guarantee she’ll be watching from upstairs, rooting these girls on. She loved a good pageant!’

Jackie O has a real chance of taking the crown.

‘We are so hopeful that we bring in a crowd as we are using our funds to sponsor AIDS/LifeCycle. https://www.aidslifecycle.org. 2 of the RubiGirls, Annie Biotix and Pussy Galore are riding in the California event. They need our support.’ says Lupe Valezz, the reigning Miss Rubicon.

The RubiGirls are also hopeful that the pageant remains a mainstay of the Dayton Drag scene.
‘We have expanded to so many events around the area like trivia, bingo and brunches, it is fun to do something more geared to drag. That’s how this whole thing got started, and it needs to be celebrated.’ Dana Sintell, the first Miss Rubicon chimes in. ‘ I think anytime you have a group of friends, showing off to the crowds and putting their best face forward….it’s got to be a blast!’

Interested in a little Dayton Drag fun? Go to rubigirls.com for tickets.

Plans for New Dog Park Get Tails a’Wagging!

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As Dayton continues its incredible resurgence, it’s apparent no dog will be left behind. A new dog park, more on the multi-use front, is coming to Steve Whalen Boulevard and Wyoming Street. 21,000 sq. feet await your mutt in this expanse. ‘Right now it’s one big space that we are using to design this great neighborhood amenity.’ says Mike Schommer, Walnut Hills Neighborhood President.

‘With Wagtown Trails, who will incorporate three trail heads in the park, we have room for a great addition to the area.’

The plan started in 2017, when Schommer met with Mayor Whaley and pitched the idea. ‘We spoke about creating a healthy community, and realized we had bike paths, and we weren’t living in a food desert. What we didn’t have was a multi-use park area, especially one for the pets.’

Beth Miller, who has put Dayton on the map when it comes to dog-friendly, adds, ‘What has been evolving in our community is the use of parks for our canine friends. When this project moves forward (Find more info here) it will become part of the bigger picture in Dayton. That vision includes the use of sponsors, artists and community members as part of what’s available in our area for pet owners and lovers. We have a QR system now that can be used to enlighten folks on what’s available today, and updates for the future.’

It takes a village for sure, in these types of endeavors. ‘There is no way a neighborhood can do this alone. Linden Heights neighborhood got on-board which propelled the project forward. When you get the City, the neighborhoods and the grassroots people invested, it makes a big difference.’ says Schommer.
Schommer is a Get-It-Done leader. Along with his team at Walnut Hills, and hand-in-hand with Linden Heights, they see momentum for their future projects.


‘This model, which is based on best practices, will be an easy-to-repeat concept for other neighborhoods looking to improve their community’s health and well-being. I owe a lot to Aaron Glett, Walnut Hills Secretary; Robert Harrison from Community Health, and Mary Loper & Carl Leifbacher of Linden Heights. This was a community effort for sure,’ says Schomer!

The park is unique for a Dayton area dog park as it has large, mature trees, is easily visible and can accommodate a large number of pets. The park, which is recognized by the City of Dayton, will actually have a trail lead that takes dog-parents to Cleveland Park, which also has a wooded space and beautiful vistas.

‘It really comes down to time and energy. Walnut Hills and Linden Heights are opening an opportunity for the entire Dayton Community. Seeing the revitalization of these parks for our animal friends is quite inspiring.’ Says Miller.

And Stay tuned, canine lovers. There is more in Dayton’s future for the dog lover, as Wagtown continues to grow in the city.

For more Info on Wagtown


For more info on Walnut Hills Neighborhood

For more Info on Linden Heights Neighborhood

Winslow Homer! Maxfield Parrish! Andrew Wyeth! & Dana Sintell? DAI Trivia is back!

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If you haven’t been to a DAI trivia night, you really are missing out. Another one has been scheduled for March 1st, and Dana Sintell, Dayton’s SweetHeart, is set to return to host the hijinx.

Peter Saul, Self-Portrait, 2013, acrylic on canvas.

The exhibit coming to the DAI is one for the ages. Founded in 1825, the National Academy of Design has been a leading artistic voice for America. The upcoming exhibition will feature (are you sitting down?)…100 paintings by 79 artists. The works tell the story of the National Academy. Visitors will get to see masterworks of John Singer Sargent, Parrish, Homer, Robert Henri, Isabel Bishop, Wyeth…and so many more!

Katherine Siegwarth, Assistant Curator of Collections and Exhibitions at the Dayton Art Institute shared, ‘This will be the debut venue for this major exhibit. The exhibit is organized by the American Federation of Arts and the National Academy of Design.’
As many Daytonians have experienced, the Trivia Nights that follow these exhibits has become something of tradition. ‘We strive to create programming that is accessible, mission based, and FUN! Trivia embodies all three!’ Siegwarth adds, ‘ We are so fortunate to have Dana Sintell host these events. Her humor and enthusiasm create the perfect atmosphere. It is quite memorable for our guests!’
‘I find being in drag and standing among the beautiful works of art at DAI kind of a juxtaposition. Somehow, odd as it is, it fits and its fun!’ says Ms. Sintell, (aka Josh Stucky.)

‘I love that it is growing and bringing more and more people through the exhibits. I love DAI, proud to be a part of it. This is just a way of saying to the community, you can enjoy art, and relate to it, no matter your background or lifestyle!’ Dana can’t do it alone! The partnership with Pepper Sprout Trivia Productions is essential.

‘Be warned!’ says Heather Leppla. Member Relations Manager. ‘There is a cap to this event. We have sold-out each and every time.’ Keep in mind, tickets include admission to the special exhibition For America: Paintings from the National Academy of Design; food and drinks available for purchase; trivia games…and even a nod to 100 years of DAI, which was incorporated February 28th, 1919!!

The Dayton Art Institute plans in 2019 to have ‘100 ways to Celebrate’ their big birthday. How, you ask?? Hints: Impressionism. (Uh-OH!). A nod to 1969’s lunar landing. (What??). 19th century jewelry. (Get out of Town!!). And much, much more.
Check out the DAI website.

Order your tickets for trivia….ASAP!
Click Here: 

To attend:
Date: Friday, March 1, 5:30-8:00 p.m.
Location: Shaw Gothic Cloister

WHERE IN ‘THE WORLD’ YOU CAN FIND GREAT ASIAN FOOD!

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‘I can’t find it!’

‘I see it but Ican’t get over there!’

‘My GPS says I’m Here?’

Oh, the many remarks on your way to ‘Taste of the World’ restaurant in Moraine. (400 Fuyao Avenue, Moraine, OH 45439.) But rest assured, persistence pays off in this well-appointed, authentic aAsian restaurant. Seating is plentiful, with modern lighting and big comfy booths for larger groups.

 

Tucked away near the Fuyao plant, ‘Taste’ provides a spicy and scrumptious tribute to all things Northern China. The decor is bright and inviting, and the large private rooms provide the Lazy Susan, for the ‘family share’ we all love.
Martinis, wine and some great Asian beer choices, give the perfect pairing to a dinner full of fresh ingredients and crispy veggies.

I am no food expert, but we filled our Lazy Susan with samples galore, just for this article!
From the top, we wanted to make sure we delved into some different flavors…and they were plentiful. We chose three starters, and be warned, spicy here is SPICY. The east peking meat pie is a great jump-in, with crispy edges and flavorful smooth center, the Szechaun sauce gives it the perfect kick. Don’t miss the Sichuan fried green beans, touch of salt, blackened edges, and great ‘snap,’ they were a bug yum! We through in one traditional item, some hot-sour soup. It was pleasantly BOTH. If it’s not to your ‘heat’ level, just ask….they have a remedy for that!

Next we chose a seafood, fish, pork and beef option. The shredded pork, which came with garlic sauce, was prepared to perfection. The aroma alone was delicious. Then we sampled the sliced beef in hot chili oil, and sampling was about all I could handle. Great flavor, and then plenty of water! Next, we had the baked soft shell crab with rice cakes, and they were the perfect follow-up to the spicier beef option. Crispy, and flavorful, the crab was simple and easy to eat. Lastly, and by far the favorite was the braised whole fish. If I were to ask for seconds on anything, this is the winner. Salted, buttery and melt in your mouth good, I commented to the waitress how I found it to be, and she said ‘my favorite too!’ Try it….wow!

The menu really is extensive. It goes from appetizers to noodles, beef to pork, chicken to seafood, dry pots to pastries. Your bases are covered.

As a favor, to you our faithful readers, I am giving you the ‘easy way to ‘Taste.” If you know how to get on West Dorothy Lane toward Moraine, you’ve got it made. Take West Dorothy Lane, past that giant Wal-Mart. Turn left on Encrete Lane. Follow Encrete for about 1/2 mile to Holye Place. Turn right…and there it is!

It’s tucked away, secluded and a ‘World’ away from most Asian places! ENJOY!

Springfield…The Champion City…Is a trip worth taking!

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In the alpha-trip series, we have tackled the letters U(rbana), N(ew Carlisle) and X(Xenia). Let’s hit 70 east and make a stop in the ‘Home City’ of Springfield. Before we get into the excitement, that is Clark County’s seat, a little disclaimer, I was born here…so it’s already home to me.

Hop, skip and a jump to the ‘Home City!’

Many folks don’t realize the importance Springfield played throughout Ohio’s history, but even today, glimpses of its past come beaming through. I have compiled a little day trip just for MostMetro readers to get the best of the best in Springfield.

Starting your day in Springfield, head over for breakfast to the Olympic to fill up for your big day. This greek diner is a little treasure hidden among a plethora of restaurants on Bechtle Avenue. They have quick, friendly service and feature some really great omelettes (try the Gyro Omelette…yum!), interesting soups (my mom loves the lemon rice soup) and are vegetarian friendly. It can be a bit crowded but rest assured you are leaving full…portions are large.

You have to see this to believe it.

First stop on our whirlwind trip is the Hartman Rock Garden, which unless you have seen it, you cannot explain it. Open 365 days a year, from dusk to dawn, this folk art phenomena, is chock full of Ben Hartman’s rock creations. In the garden you will see creations ranging from detailed figurines to gorgeous fish ponds. The garden is literally constructed of hundreds of thousands of stones. 90 plus years in the making, the garden was renovated in 2010, and it is magnificent to walk through. The story goes that Ben constructed the garden for his wife as a ‘Garden of Love,’ once you visit it, you’ll feel the same! The garden is located at 1905 Russel Avenue.

Hopping back in the car, let’s head to the Heritage Center. The building alone is stunning, and inside awaits archives, bios and scaled models. The Romanesque building dates to 1890 when it was a marketplace, and the admission is FREE! To really get a feel for Springfield’s role in America’s growth, the museum features how the city helped shape the nation. Check it out at 117 S. Fountain Ave.
And one more before lunch.

The arts are alive in SmoA!

Small, quaint and oh, so perfect is Springfield’s Art Museum. Let’s face it, Americans love their art in small doses…and this is the winner. Situated in beautiful Cliff Park, the museum features ever-changing artwork and a fun, scenic Sculpture Walk. When I was there last, Charlie and Edie Harper’s permanent exhibit was a fave. Filled with classrooms and activities, you can see why this is such a gem! The museum is at 107 Cliff Park Rd.

Hungry? Right up the street is Seasons Bistro and Grille. It’s an excellent choice for lunchtime in the city. A great wine selection awaits in this restaurant featuring local fare, a constantly rotating menu, and waitresses that aim to please. Mom and I enjoyed the bibimbap and Bison Burger on or recent visit. It’s vibe is unique and edgy, but it never forgets its clientele. We had an apple turnover at our lunch’s end…and yes, order it!

Frank Lloyd got it Wright on Springfield.

After lunch, comes a real treat…a visit to Frank Lloyd Wright’s Westcott House at 85 Greenmount Ave. The property, now back to its original condition and design, is so inspired, I feel guilty giving away any details. Just know that the furnishings, the accessories, the tours, the entirity is a 10 out of 10. The house is one of Wright’s greatest masterpieces and to know it is only 35 minutes away should excite.
Alright outdoorsy fans….I am sure you have heard of the Fair at New Boston, which takes place in George Rogers Clark Park. Stuffed with history, including the ‘alleged’ birthplace of Tecumseh, the park has seen many a battle, including the Battle of Peckuwe, which was the largest in the American Revolution west of the Alleghenies. The labyrinth of trails is extensive and and the nature preserve is beautiful.

Cecil and Lime outdoor patio.

Time to have dinner and wrap it up. I have to give a plug to one of my favorite since I was youngster, the Hickory Inn….their pizza is still one I crave from time to time! (at 652 north Limestone St.)
However, we are going to go a couple blocks north of there and hit Cecil and Lime. Live music, a nice atmosphere, and attention to detail make this a good choice in Springfield. The variety of food on the menu matched with well-prepared food keep us coming back. In the Warmer months, Cecil and Lime cannot be beat with their outdoor seating. There is an elegance to the place, and it continues to evolve! You will find it at 227 East Cecil Street.

 

Great stop for a Beer.

As we head back home, we have to stop at Mother Stewart’s Taproom to share a beer in Springfield’s brewing company. Located at 109 West North Street, Mother Stewart’s offers about 8-10 different beers, from Lagers to Witbiers. The interior of the place is rustic and perfect for events. Speaking of events, they have a ton…so check out their Facebook Page for info.

Time to hit the road for home…..until we venture out again…

A Tour of Dayton’s Holiday Window Displays

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In the 1700’s, in the city of London, a tailor decided to place large glass windows on the front of his shop. Shop owners and neighboring folks thought his store was garish and brash. They found his store showy, and inappropriate…until the first holiday season when he decorated those windows as a celebration. Lights, a tree, and ribbons of bold red and dark green filled the space. My, oh my, how opinions changed, and a tradition was born…the Christmas Display window!

Ask any Daytonian about their own memories of Holiday Window displays and the word ‘Rike’s’ jumps from their lips. Luckily for all of us, the Schuster Center still gives us the thrill of those fun-filled, animated displays. As a 56 year old man, I still get a sentimental feeling when I see them, and a sense of wonder when I watch children light up around them.

With the decline of retail downtown, many had doubted that display windows would ever have a renaissance. Think Again! I decided to throw my dogs in the car and go in search of illuminated, lavish, exciting holiday windows…and I found plenty. Here a few highlights:

The CO (formerly DVAC,) capitalizes on their artsy edge, with lush trees adorned with a multitude of fantastic handmade ornaments. It’s truly a winter wonderland. (118 N Jefferson St)

Ghostlight Coffee goes all homey and warm this year. The steamy windows, brick walls and simple tree take us back to holidays of yore. (1201 Wayne Ave)

 

 

Clash nailed it this year…it’s color, form and light set it apart. As I went to snap this photo, one downtown ambassador said, ‘Prettiest window I’ve ever seen.’ Can’t argue that. (521 E 5th St)

 

Windows should highlight what you sell, Texas Beef and Cattle Company strategically placed their tree where we all can see the BBQ and Shiner Beer. Smart!! (1101 W Third St)

Brim always thinks differently, and it pays off. Among the snow and lights, a white tiger looks on the winter scene with eager eyes. It’s intriguing, fun and 100% eye-catching. (464 E 5th St)

Almost like a mini-movie set, the color and nostalgia at Baker Salvage brings back Christmas Past. I was so excited to happen upon this gem, and loved the warmth of the lighting.(31 S St Clair St)

When a sleigh just seems cumbersome, the folks at Press have a bicycle in wait for the jolly old elf. If you’ve ever wondered what Press sells…the window answers all! (257 Wayne Ave)

It is always awesome to see painted windows at holiday time, especially when they are done well. Crafted and Cured has a plethora of winter scenes adorning their establishment. Take a minute and appreciate them all. (531 Wayne Ave)

Animated elves, Mrs. Claus and an awkward baby Jesus make the display at the RubiGirl Clubhouse eerie and odd. A conversation piece, the window has stirred some controversy…as usual. (1207 Wayne Ave)

I have to include Omega Music…as the dogs and I walked by, I did a double-take, looking at their trees. Shout out to the creative genius who used 45 rpm adapters as ornaments! Perfect. And the sweet little snowman is a great addition.

Luna never lets us down, no matter the season. White trees and gorgeous living plants make a pristine, upbeat holiday window. Bright and lively, their display connects. (261 Wayne Ave)

Luna never lets us down, no matter the season. White trees and gorgeous living plants make a pristine, upbeat holiday window. Bright and lively, their display connects. (261 Wayne Ave)

Next time you are out and about, heading toward a thriving downtown Dayton, look around. You will be amazed at the explosive return of the cherished display window. To the window dressers out there, thank you for making the holidays so much brighter!