My Miami County

2012-02-19T12:49:00.001-08:00

Monday, February 20 through Sunday, February 26

Fat Tuesday - The Bar Stool Open - Tonic Making - Dueling Pianos - A Jammies Oscar Party in Yellow Springs and More!
By Matt Bayman

Dean Simms will portray Loius Armstrong at the
Fat Tuesday party at LeDoux's in downtown Troy.
Simms starts performing at 6 p.m., but the restaurant
will be partying all day, staring with a New Orleans-
themed beer tasting at 11 a.m.

In New Orleans, the fun has already begun, and it will continue throughout the week during Mardi Gras.
For those of us who can't make it to the Big Easy this year, a number of area hot spots are making up for it, including LeDoux's Cajun Restaurant, which recently opened at a new location in downtown Troy. On Tuesday, the restaurant will not only serve up Cajun food, but will also have New Orleans-style music with Dean Simms: A Tribute to Louis Armstrong. He comes on at 6 p.m. and the bar will be serving up Hurricanes and will have a New Orleans beer maker hosting a tasting. At The Caroline, a menu with Bourbon Street Steaks, pints and other Cajun specials make for a great Fat Tuesday. The Caroline also has a special Lent menu (click HERE to view) that is the largest in the county.
Since the kids are out of school on Monday, for Presidnet's Day, Hobart Arena will host a Family Skate Session from 1-3 p.m. - with discounts offered to guests. Monday's also the time to head to one of two Aunt Millie's Thrift Stores (either Dayton or Sidney) to stock up on high-quality bread for pennies on the dollar, or buy fresh Raisin-Walnut artisan bread and other breads at Bakehouse Breads & Cookie Co in downtown Troy.

As the week moves forward, fans of the theater may enjoy attending an Oscar party in Yellow Springs, where a Hollywood celebrity will play host at the Little Arts Theatre (see more below), or the Victoria Theatre's production of Tenderly: The Rosemary Clooney Musical Debuts. In the realm of comedy, for one night only on Wednesday, the Dayton Funny Bone will host former Saturday Night Live member and actor Jim Breuer.

Moving into the weekend, on Friday gamblers can skip the boats and head to the Irish Club in North Dayton for an all-you-can-eat fish fry and Monte Carlo event with table games, not to mention 50/50 drawings, and door prizes. On the same night, the Dayton Opera will present Romeo & Juliet at the Schuster Center.
Two fun events on Friday are taking place in Vandalia. The Dayton Flea Market, featuring up to 500 vendors, is taking place at the Dayton Airport Expo Center in Vandalia (no admission fee) and an all-request piano bar night at Stubbies will feature 88 Keys and The Truth, a traveling team of pianists that really get crowds involved in their show - Vegas-style. It's a unique and fun thing for this area.
On Saturday, guests at Cinemark Theater in Piqua can see a live broadcast of Verdi's "Ernani" being performed at the Metropolitan in New York City at 1 p.m. Seats for this show in New York City start at $300. In Piqua, they cost the price of a movie theater ticket.
Putt-putt golf teams need to rush to sign up for this Saturday's 14th Annual Bud Light Barstool Open, which has holes at Tony's Ba Da Bing and Hinders, bot in Tipp City, and others close-by in Vandalia and North Dayton. There are 9-holes and teams can win great prizes.
On the gentler side of Saturday, Nutritionist Leah Rond will lead a class of participants in formulating their own custom spring tonic at Harmony Farms in Tipp City. Along with the WinterFest music concert taking place on Troy-Urbana Road at the Eagles Park, I am looking forward to my first performance at LeDoux's Voodoo Lounge. My band Cover It Up, featuring Gus Vonderheide and myself, will perform at 9 p.m. There is no cover charge and I'd love to see everybody out.
There's plenty more to do too. Have your pick! Be safe and remember to tell your friends about My Miami County and tell the businesses that advertise on our website that you saw them here. Your support is dearly appreciated!

Also ...

This is what a "small" box of organic
food from the Fulton Farms Happy
Box looks like. On March 1, the
locally grown produce will be available.

The Organic Happy Box Returns & Organic Maple Syrup in West Milton
The Happy Box will continue on March 1, providing area residents with locally grown organic produce. At the same time, we are entering the season of maple syrup production. Also organic, area residents can find locally produced maple syrup in West Milton and at Fulton Farms. These two topics are the focus of this week's Entertainment Guide.

The Worst and Best Presidents of All Time & Ohio's Presidents: The Good, the Bad and the More Bad
In honor of Presidents Day, read about the best and worst Presidents of all time HERE and also how Ohio's presidents compare to the rest.

Monday, February 20

Quarters for a Cure Auction
TROY – Quarter auctions are starting to attract people of all ages to these unique and charitable events. At 6 p.m. on Monday, February 20 at the Covington Eagles on US Route 36, Quarters for a Cure will take place. Proceeds from the quarter auction, which is gaining more items to bid each day, benefit the American Cancer Society Relay for Life – Team Honda. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the auction beings at 7 p.m. Bring your quarters and get ready to have fun and probably get the deal of a lifetime! The kitchen and bar at the Eagles will be open early for the event.

Public Ice Skating at Hobart Arena
TROY – Hobart Arena will host a Family Skate Session from 1-3 p.m. today. Families with one paying parent will be admitted for half-price. Regular admission is $5 for adults and $4 youths (14 & under). Skate rental is $2.50 and outside skates are welcome.

This amount of bread was purchased for less than $8.

Monday Madness at Aunt Millie’s Stores in Dayton and Sidney (Buy Local!)
DAYTON/SIDNEY – Whichever store you decide to go to, every Monday, Aunt Millie’s Thrift Stores have the finest, healthiest breads (and other fun things) at massive discounts. As long as you freeze this bread, it will be good for months, and you can buy loaves of organic, whole-wheat bread for a fraction of the cost you would pay at the grocery. The only hurdle is that these discounts are offered on bread that will soon expire, but if you put the bread in the freezer, it will last months. A visit to either of the local thrift stores in Dayton or Sidney can save you hundreds of dollars a year on bread, especially if you buy good, wholesome breads (click HERE for our story on Aunt Millie’s Thrift Shops). The Dayton Aunt Millie's Thrift Store is located near the Traffic Circle in Dayton, less than a quarter mile north of Marion's Pizza at 3899 North Dixie Drive from Exit 57 on I-75. The Sidney Aunt Millie's Thrift Store is located at 1584 Michigan St. and can be reached at (937) 497-1600. The Dayton store is open 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday and 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday and can be reached at (937) 279-0013. The Sidney location is open 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.

Pick Up Locally Made, Fresh Breads in Troy (Buy Local!)
TROY – Bakehouse Bread & Cookie Co. in downtown Troy bakes specific artisan breads on different days of the week (see the full schedule HERE). Monday’s breads baked fresh are Raisin-Walnut, Portuguese Corn and Honey Whole Wheat. When we talk about local bread here, it’s as local and environmentally friendly as it gets. The wheat is grown by a local farmer, then the wheat is ground at Bear’s Mill in Greenville. It then makes its way to the bread shop where it’s prepared fresh and served to the public. When you’re buying Bakehouse Bread & Cookie Co. breads, sandwiches and cookies, you’re buying local and supporting a network of local commerce.

Open Bowling at Troy Bowl Until 10 p.m.
TROY – It’s Monday night. You and the family are home, but you don’t want the weekend fun to end. This is where a Monday night bowling adventure comes in handy. Troy Bowl, located at 1530 McKaig Ave. in Troy, has everything needed to enjoy a fun family evening, a Monday night date night or even a solo night on the town. (Yes, bowling alleys are still great places to meet new people). Everybody enjoys a good game of bowling – competitive or relaxed. Troy Bowl also has a billiards room with a few video games. There’s a full bar with cheap bottled beer and a great food stand known for its pizzas, cheeseburgers and fries and cheese sticks, all at low prices. Open Bowling is from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Mondays (always call in case of league play). For more information, call 339-3315 or visit www.troybowl.com.

Kids Eat Free (and Healthy) at El Sombrero
TROY/PIQUA – Every Monday night, kids get to eat free from the children’s menu with the purchase of an adult meal. In 2011, El Sombrero introduced a healthy children’s menu that includes carrots and celery, salads, Jell-O, sweet potato french fries, applesauce and apple slices and much more. Of course, kids can also enjoy tacos, burritos, pizza, chicken nuggets and other foods. For more information on tonight’s deal, call 339-2100 or 778-2100. For more information on El Sombrero’s healthy children’s menu, read HERE.

Rebecca’s Pottery Taking Orders for Garden Markers (Buy Local!)
TROY – Rebecca’s Pottery, showcased at Canal Street Primitives, currently is taking orders for spring garden markers and planters. Call (937) 305-3406 to request the size, shape and other personalizations.

Buffalo Jacks serves exotic food
in a great small town atmosphere.

Eat Exotic Animals Between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. at Buffalo Jacks!
COVINGTON – One of Buffalo Jack’s most popular menu items is the grilled elk venison, but other exotic favorites at the downtown Covington restaurant are the antelope, wild boar and buffalo smoked sausage, pheasant, rabbit and duck, all-you-can-eat walleye and alligator. Oh yea, and rattlesnake, which is the most expensive item on the menu at about $33. Others are much lower. Before you visit Buffalo Jacks, 137 S. High St. (State Route 48), visit HERE or call (937) 473-2524. This is a fun way to spice up your Monday nights! To see the "exotic menu," click HERE.

Presidents Day Sales and Monday Specials at The Greene
DAYTON – It’s buy-one-get-one free day at Carters (baby store) at The Greene. It’s good for everything in the store. At Buttercream Happy Hour at Cheryle & Co., purchase 10 baked items for $10, but only between 5-7 p.m. Monday-Friday with a Monday special of two brownies and four cookies for $6. Click HERE for a complete list of this week's sales. The Greene is open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday.

Ladies Night at the Boomerang Pub
PIQUA – The Boomerang Pub hosts Ladies Night every Monday with discounted drinks for all, but even more discounted for female clients. Enjoy a game of pool, listen to live music, play Wii Bowling, throw darts and more, and enjoy a mixed crowd of people all looking to have a good time. The pub is located at 8285 N. Dixie Dr. in Piqua (at the old Mug & Jug) and accessible from the second Piqua exit, Exit 83 from I-75. For more information, call (937) 778-0460.

Mayhem & Mystery Dinner Theatre "Proposal Predicament"
DAYTON - The Spaghetti Warehouse at 36 Fifth St. in downtown Dayton will host its weekly Mayhem & Mystery Dinner Theatre at 7 p.m. tonight (Monday). The cost is $25.95 for dinner and the show. For reservations to the interactive dinner theatre, call (937) 461-3913.

$1 Hot Dogs and $1 Domestic Beers
TROY - Every Monday at the Leaf & Vine is $1 Hot Dog and $1 Domestic Beer Night. With no Monday Night Football on, enjoy some music from the jukebox, wind down with a house cigar or enjoy a glass of wine.

Fat Tuesday, February 21

Fat Tuesday at The Caroline
TROY – The Caroline will host a Fat Tuesday dinner and party tonight. The dinner specials will be Bourbon Street Steak on a bed of Cajun rice, topped with bourbon peppercorn butter, sautéed peppers, onions and andouille sausage, bacon wrapped shrimp over cheddar grits, garnished with barbecue sauce and green onions. Plus, enjoy half-priced appetizers all day long and $2 pints at the bar or your table.

Mardi Gras at the Leaf & Vine
TROY - The Leaf & Vine will host its Mardi Gras Fat Tuesday party tonight from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. There will be zydeco music piping through the Leaf's sound system, there will be special pricing on the pub's "legendary" Hurricane drink (one of the owners hails from Louisiana), as well as plenty of beads and the largest selection of scotch and bourbon and 70 different beer selections. The party is free.

LeDoux's Fat Tuesday Mardi Gras Party featuring Louis Armstrong
TROY - LeDoux's Fat Tuesday party begins at 11 a.m. today with lunch and dinner specials. A beer tasting with Abita Beer will start at 11 a.m. and the scheduled entertainment for the evening is Dean Sims Tribute to Louie Armstrong, who will perform at 6 p.m. There is a bar area and restaurant area and both can be enjoyed all day and into the evening.

Tuesday Pasta Fest at Beppo Uno in Piqua
PIQUA - Piqua's finest restaurant, Beppo Uno, 414 W. Water St., Piqua, hosts its Tuesday Night Pasta Fest each week. For $9.95 per person, patrons get salad, garlic bread and unlimited pasta, featuring spaghetti, penne, fettucine or rigitoni. Choice of sauces are traditional red, marinara, arrabbiata, meat, alfredo or roasted red pepper cream sauce. For more information on Beppo Uno, click HERE or call (937) 615-1100.

Fat Tuesday at the Trolley Stop in Dayton
DAYTON - The Trolley Stop is one of the more eclectic, friendly bars in the Oregon District, which makes it a great place to celebrate Fat Tuesday. Located at 530 Fifth St., from 11 a.m. until 2 a.m., the bar will have food specials, Cajun drinks, beads and more.

Tenderly: The Rosemary Clooney Musical Debuts at Victoria Theatre Tonight
DAYTON - Tenderly: The Rosemary Clooney Musical debuts this evening at Victoria Theatre in Dayton and will be performed through March 4. Produced by The Human Race Theatre Company, Tenderly is the story of film actress and legendary singer Rosemary Clooney, portraying her life on stage in an engaging new musical that captures the highlights of her amazing career and the challenges she faced as wife, mother and performer. Hear her beloved and classic songs, meet the characters who touched her life and follow this remarkable woman on a journey that leads to ultimate triumph. For tickets and information click HERE. Tickets range in price from $40 to $83. Shows take place through March 4 at 8 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturdays; and 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Sundays. The show is 90 minutes and has no intermission.

Children's Puppet Show at the Piqua Public Library
PIQUA - A free puppet show for children will take place at 7 p.m. tonight at the Piqua Public Library. The library is located in the old Fort Piqua Hotel at 116 W. High St. and is fun to explore any day of the week. For more information, call 773-6753.

Adult Exploration Hike
TROY - Become part of the Adult Nature Walking Club, or just pop in for the day, as they meet for their bi-monthly nature walks. Today's walk will take place at 9 a.m. at Lost Creek Reserve, 2645 E. State Route 41 east of Troy. The walk is not strenuous or fast-paced. Walks are held the first and third Tuesday of every month and are free. Great way to meet likeminded hikers.

Poetry Group Meets at Troy Library
TROY - A public poetry writing group will meet at the Troy Public Library from 12:30-2:30 p.m. today in the Meeting Room. The event is open to new members. Members write and share poetry and writing techniques.

Mardi Gras Masquerade at ele Cake Co.
WEST CARROLLTON - ele Cake Co. 810 E. Dixie Dr. in West Carrollton will host a Fat Tuesday Mardi Gras Masquerade from 6-8 p.m. tonight. The event includes a Cajun dinner and drinks and themed entertainment. There will also be a costume and mask contest, so dress up for a chance to win King or Queen of Carnival prizes! For more details, click HERE.

Fat "Shrove" Tuesday at The Pub - Followed by Ash Wednesday Seafood
DAYTON - The Pub, at The Greene in Dayton will host Fat Shrove Tuesday today and this evening. The event will combine two traditions for one celebration. Patrons can drink $5 hurricanes and Pimm's cups, $4 select pints and feast on jambalaya and Brit Berry Crepes. Return for lunch or dinner Wednesday for a variety of seafood options, including signature Fish & Chips, Jamaican Shrimp, Asian Seared Ahi Tuna, Woodford Glazed Salmon and more!

The free trivia or poker games at
BW3s makes for a fun time for
families, couples or even on your own.

Wing Tuesdays and Games For All
TROY - A fun time for the entire family, BW3s in Troy hosts Wing Night every Tuesday. All wings are 40 cents. Bring the kids for some basketball, video racing or Golden T Golf, or sit at your table and play trivia or Texas Hold 'Em.

Get in Shape at Brukner with New Trailblazers Program
TROY - Brukner Nature Center offers its new Trailblazers Program every Tuesday and Thursday from 4-5 p.m. Step outdoors with an energetic group of individuals that will utilize all of BNC’s grounds to add muscle conditioning and cardio, as a well as the camaraderie of group exercise, to your daily life. As the first ever workout program at Brukner, Trailblazers will provide you with varied levels of cardio and muscle conditioning to meet your specific needs and desires. The cost is $2 per session for BNC members and $5 for non-members. For details, call (937) 698-6493 or e-mail wildlife@bruknernaturecenter.com.

Mid-Day Arts Cafe
DAYTON - Ever wonder what goes on behind the scenes of Dayton’s great performing arts community? Now you can experience it first hand–and get the inside scoop–with the Mid-Day Arts Café, a performance and education series for the arts-curious adult. Now in its second season, Mid-Day Arts Café explores a new topic at noon on the third Tuesday of each month in the Benjamin & Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center’s Mathile Theatre. A collaboration between Victoria Theatre Association and Dayton area arts organizations, each session includes a box lunch provided by Citilites Restaurant & Bar, performances by local arts groups or visiting artists, and an opportunity for you to ask your burning arts questions. This series is a great new way for adults to network with fellow arts lovers, deepen their arts experience in a casual setting and catch up on the latest arts offerings in the Dayton region. Tickets, which include lunch, are $12. Registration and networking take place 11:30 a.m. The monthly performance takes place from noon to 1 p.m. For more information, click HERE.

The Wheels are performs at Canal Street
Tavern. On Tuesdays, the famous
venue hosts a music co-op and
all are welcome to jam with bands,
solo artists and writers and more.

Musician's Co-Op at Canal Street Tavern
DAYTON - Jaclyn Falk hosts "open stage" every Tuesday night at the famous Canal Street Tavern. The open mic time starts at 9 p.m. but pre-registration is required by visiting www.jaclynfalk.com. Canal Street Tavern is located 308 E. First St. and can be reached at (937) 461-9343.

Learn How to Patent That Invention
DAYTON - Would somebody please hurry up and find an alternative to gasoline?! If you think you have the knowledge to do this, or if you have an idea for other inventions, you'll need to learn how the process of getting it patented works. From 6-8 p.m. tonight at the Dayton Metro Library, 215 E. Third St., Ran Raider, a patent specialist at Wright State University, along with Dave Siefert, professor of entrepreneurship at Sinclair College, among others, will provide advice on how to get your invention to the public. For details, call (937) 463-2665 or click HERE.

Karaoke at The Brewery
TROY – The Brewery has karaoke every Tuesday night from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m., plus drink specials. There is no admission.

Adult Public Bingo in West Milton
WEST MILTON – The West Milton Eagles will host public bingo from 6:30-9:30 p.m. at 2270 S. Miami St. The bingo is young and adult theme with a bar close by and money to be won. Bingo takes place every Tuesday and benefits the Eagle's softball team. All are welcome. For more information, call (937) 543-9959.

Wednesday, February 22

An Oscars Red Carpet Party on the Big Screen in your Jammies
Hollywood Actor Rumored to Be Emcee of Yellow Springs Event
YELLOW SPRINGS - A "surprise emcee straight from Hollywood" will host The Oscars at The Little Art!, an event taking place in Yellow Springs at 6 p.m. Wednesday. For $50 ($35 is tax deductible), guests are asked to dress comfortably in jeans or jammies (prizes will be awarded for best jammies). At 6 p.m. The Winds Cafe, a very popular, upscale restaurant in the heart of Yellow Springs (click HERE) will provide guests with gourmet appetizers and wine. Just before 7 p.m. guests will proceed to the red carpet at the Little Art Theatre to watch the Oscars on the big screen with wine (cash bar), free popcorn and sweet tea. The pay-as-you-go bar will feature a new drink called the "Little Artini." There will be prizes for correctly guessing winners of the major categories of the Oscars. To get your tickets, click HERE. For more information, call Maureen Lynch at (937) 901-1920.
Could the surprise emcee be Yellow Springs resident Dave Chappelle? (I have no clue and this is complete speculation, but hmmm...)

Either from Saturday Night Live or
Half Baked, people have enjoyed
the humor of Jim Breuer, an actor
that started on the stages of comedy
clubs just like the Funny Bone.

Jim Breuer at the Dayton Funnybone – One Night Only
DAYTON – At 7:30 p.m. tonight (and this weekend) at Dayton Funnybone, Jim Breuer, a former member of "Saturday Night Live," is best known for his original character, "Goat Boy." He has been featured on many late night shows, including "Late Night with David Letterman," "Late Night with Conan O'Brien," "Friday Night," and Comedy Central's "Premium Blend. Admission is $25 or $55 for dinner show. Call the Box Office for Reservations. (937) 429-5233.

Half Price Appetizers at La Piazza
TROY - Every Wednesday evening, La Piazza offers its appetizer menu at half price. Another feature of the restaurant on this night and every day of the workweek is Happy Hour from 4:30-6 p.m. Monday-Friday. While enjoying some appetizers in the bar, guests take advantage of discounts on all beer and house wines. Click HERE for more information.

Leaf & Vine Open Mic Night
TROY - The Leaf & Vine Open Mic Night, the only one of its kind in Miami County, is growing each new week. The event includes free food for all patrons and discounted drinks for all musicians, including $1 beers and $3 well drinks. This can provide the courage to get up on stage and show off your musical talents - sound equipment provided.

New Spring Items Arriving at Canal Street Primitives

Spring has already arrived at Canal Street
Primitives in downtown Troy, with a
Spring Open House scheduled for March,
but items already on the shelves. The store
is also taking orders on custom made furniture.
Call Bruce at (937) 216-9606.

TROY – Canal Street Primitives, 9 E. Canal St. in downtown Troy (3 blocks south of the Square) is introducing its spring line of handmade furniture, hooked rugs, home décor, garden accessories, candles, indoor and patio items and local pottery, among others. A spring open house is scheduled for March. Canal Street Primitives is open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday and can be reached at (937) 216-9606. Click HERE for more photos of the store and its merchandise.

Trivia Night and $3 Margaritas at Club 55
TROY – Club 55 in Troy hosts its weekly Trivia Night starting at 6:30 p.m. every Wednesday. Prizes (usually gift cards to the Club 55 Bistro) are awarded to winners and guests also can enjoy $3 margaritas during the trivia. There is no cover charge. Club 55 is located at 845 West Market Street (State Route 55 near Kroger) and can be reached at (937) 552-7679.

God's Design for Life and Love Relationships Seminar – through Saturday
DAYTON – A four-day seminar for both singles and married couples begins tonight from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Calvary Missionary Baptist Church in Dayton. Instructors for couples will be Pastor Warren and First Lady Carolyn Shaw of Mt. Tabor Missionary Baptist Church and Deacon Roy Miles and Sis. Joanne Dunn of Calvary. The seminar is free, cost of books to be used are $12 for married and $9 for singles. The church is located at 2067 N. Gettysburg Ave.

Live Trivia at Wings Bar & Grille
VANDALIA – Win gift cards and cash prizes at Wings weekly live trivia night, which takes place 6:30-9 p.m. There are multiple categories and rounds and patrons have time to meet new people on teams. The bar has great food and several bars.

Thursday, February 23

Pat Godwin at Wiley's

Using musical comedy songs, Patty G is a great show!

DAYTON - Patty G, as he's called, returns to Wiley's this week for an encore performance, using his guitar and humor and playing the classics you've heard on The Bob and Tom Show, including "Switch to Beer," "Nobody's Speaking English Anymore," "First Date" and "The Legend of John Fox," among others. Thursday's show is at 8 p.m. and the cost is $7. Friday's show is at 9 p.m. and it's $12. Saturday's shows are at 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. and are $15. The club has food and spirits. Try a tall beer with the supreme nachos. To preview Patty G, click HERE. For a video clip of him, click HERE.

Miami East Charity Day at OinkADoodleMoo BBQ
TROY - If you haven't yet dined at OinkADoodleMoo BBQ, between 11 a.m. and 9 p.m. Thursday there will be a chance to try out the barbecue joint, while also helping a good cause.
During this time, the restaurant, located at 1600 W. Main St. (next to Goodwill and I-75) will provide 20 percent of all of its pre-taxed food sales to the Miami East After Prom. All you have to do is say "Miami East" and your 20 percent goes to the fund. OinkADoodleMoo (Click HERE) specializes in barbecue meats and all the sides to go with it. For more information, call (937) 335-OINK (6465).

Live Music by Scott Oglesbee at La Piazza
TROY – Pianist Scott Oglesbee will perform dinner music in the La Piazza bar area (it can be heard throughout the restaurant) tonight. The view of the Square from your dinner table with the combination of great dinner music and the best Italian food in town makes for a great evening. Call (937) 339-5553 for more information.

$2 Margaritas at The Caroline
TROY - From 4 p.m. to close every Thursday, The Caroline's bar offers $2 margaritas. Order a small meal from the restaurant's brand new bar menu, introduced this month for the new year.

Piano Lounge and Prime Ribs at Club 55
TROY - Club 55 transforms into a piano lounge on Thursday evenings when they also offer an 8 oz prime rib dinner with a side and salad for $9.95.

Thirsty Thursday Country DJ and Dance Party at The Brewery
TROY - Country music fans will want to stop by The Brewery in downtown Troy from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Thursday for DJ Brian, who specializes in playing the best country music. A dance floor welcomes feet!

Karaoke Night at Dunaway’s
TROY – One of the most popular karaoke nights in Miami County takes place at 9 p.m. every Thursday at Dunaway’s Beef N’ Ale, 508 W. Main St. in Troy. Along with karaoke, Dunaway’s is known for having “Ohio’s Biggest Sandwiches” and some of the best pizzas in town. Dunaway’s also hosts live bands with no cover charge every Saturday night at 9 p.m.

Snowtubing Paradise is Just Down the Road – through Sunday
NEW PARIS – Valley’s Edge Snow Tubing specializes in snow tubing, sledding and other outdoor recreation and is open from 5-9 p.m. Thursday and Fridays; 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturdays; and noon to 8 p.m. Sundays. The facility makes its own snow for sports. On Thursday nights, all guests can sled or tube for $6 an hour. On weekends, the price increases to $10 per hour for adults and $6 for kids 4-6 years old. To plan your family or group trip, visit www.valleysedgesnowtubing.com.

Idea Factory Free Entrepreneur’s Seminar
DAYTON – The Entrepreneurs Center, 714 E. Monument Ave. in Dayton, will host a free event at 1 p.m. The agenda will feature the latest startup ideas, how to turn your good idea into a great opportunity, free tools for your startup idea and networking, and more. For details, visit www.myideafactory.org.

Friday, February 24

Fish Fry & Monte Carlo at the Irish Club

DAYTON – For $10 per person, the public is invited to eat, drink and gamble at the Irish Club of Dayton, 6555 Dog Leg Road from 6-11 p.m. Friday. The food is all-you-can-eat fish, sausage, fries, slaw and draft beer. Dinner is served from 6-9 p.m. and the Monte Carlo, featuring table games and more, is from 7-11 p.m. Additionally, there are door prizes, a 50/50 raffle, basket raffles and more. For more information, call (937) 890-5825.

Dayton Opera: Romeo and Juliet - Friday & Sunday
DAYTON - The Dayton Opera will perform Romeo and Juliet at 8 p.m. Friday and 3 p.m. Sunday at the Schuster Center in Dayton. This universal story has been adapted in countless plays and films, in popular culture and in dance, but perhaps no medium better expresses the love, longing and ultimate tragedy of this fated pair than Gounod’s supreme opera. It's a "Sweeping romanticism from beginning to untimely end!" The opera is performed in French with English Surtitles above the stage. Tickets and other information is available HERE.

The Caroline's Friday Lent Menu
TROY - Click HERE for The Caroline's special Lent menu. It's the largest of its kind in Miami County.

Dayton Flea Market – Friday-Sunday
VANDALIA – The Dayton Flea Market, featuring 300 antiques, collectibles, jewelry, arts and crafts, health and beauty aids and many other items, will open today from 2-6 p.m.; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday; and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday at the Dayton Airport Expo Center, 3900 McCauley Dr. in Vandalia. There is no admission and parking is free. To preview the event, visit www.stewartpromotions.com.

All Request Piano Bar Night with 88 Keys and The Truth at Stubbies
VANDALIA – Starting at 9 p.m. Stubbies Sports Bar & Grill in Vandalia will host Piano Bar Night, featuring 88 Keys and the Truth, a traveling, all-request dueling piano group. Stubbies is located at 722 National Road. For more information, call (937) 898-9373.

Jukebox Friday at the Leaf & Vine
TROY – The Leaf & Vine will put the money in and patrons can choose the music tonight until 1 a.m. Also enjoy drink specials, the largest walk-in humidor in the Northern Miami Valley and a fine collection of bourbon and scotch.

Singles Dance in Botkins
BOTKINS – If you’re between the ages of 40 and 65, head to The Palazzo in Botkins for the largest singles dance in the entire region takes, frequently bringing in more than 300 people. There is food, alcohol and regular drinks and a live band that performs country and classic rock dance and slow dance music. Doors open at 7 p.m. Stop in early for free line dancing lessons and then find that special someone. Admission is $7. For details, call (937) 693-6325. The Palazzo is located at 309 S. Main St.

The Club 55 dance floor on a recent Saturday night.

Video DJ at Club 55
TROY - Club 55 in Troy has a live video DJ every Friday and Saturday night and one of the busiest dance floors in Miami County. There is a small cover charge after 9 p.m. and nobody under age 21 is permitted.

Behind the Scenes Tour at the National Museum of the United States Air Force
DAYTON – An interesting, free event at the National Museum of the United States Air Force takes place every Friday from 12:15-1:15 p.m. During this time, registered guests (call 255-3286) get a look behind the scenes in the museum’s restoration area. After tour, stick around and enjoy the full museum, also for free. For details and exhibit information, call www.nationalmuseum.af.mil.

The Dinosaurs Band in Kettering
KETTERING – One of the great class rock and roll bands in the Dayton area, The Dinosaurs, will perform from 8 p.m. to midnight at The Christopher Club, 3150 S. Dixie Dr. Snacks are provided and a cash bar is available.

Jersey Boys in Toledo – Friday & Saturday
TOLEDO – If you missed the Jersey Boys in Dayton a couple of weeks ago, have no fear, the act is currently in Toledo, including this weekend at the Stranahan Theater, 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd. Tickets start at $45 and can be purchased through www.ticketmaster.com. Show times tonight and tomorrow are 8 p.m.

Saturday, February 25

14th Annual Bud Light Barstool Open

Take part in this weekend's Bar Stool Open,
which has 2 holes in Tipp City and several more
in Vandalia and North Dayton. Teams participate
in this charitable event and can win prizes.

TIPP CITY/VANDALIA – In an effort to raise money for United Rehabilitation Services of Great Dayton, the 14^th Annual Bud Light Barstool Open will take place Saturday at 9 bars in North Dayton with 9 putt-putt holes, including holes at Tony’s and Hinders in Tipp City and Jackass Flats, Wings, Little York Tavern and Oscar’s in Vandalia. Click HERE to sign up. All putt-putt courses are indoors and each bar has other fun things going on during the event. The cost is $200 per team with prizes for the top-3 winners, including If you have any questions please contact Ashley Brookey at (937) 233-1230 x104 or abrookey@ursdayton.org.

Verdi’s “Ernani” Live at Piqua Cinemark Theatre
PIQUA – Verdi’s “Ernani” will be broadcast live at 1 p.m. today, Saturday, February 25 at Cinemark Theatre in Piqua. It is broadcast live from the Metropolitan Opera in New York City, providing seats at regular cinema prices that would cost $300 or more live. The opera stars Angela Meade, Marcello Giordani, Dmitri Hvorostovsky and Ferruccio Furlanetto.

WinterFest at Troy Eagles Park
TROY – The Miami Valley Music Festival Association will host its first-ever WinterFest Saturday, February 25 at the Troy Eagles Campground, 2252 Troy-Urbana Road in Troy.
More than a dozen bands and artists will perform 12 hours of music on two stages between the hours of 3 p.m. Saturday and 3 a.m. Sunday. Tickets are $15 and camping also is available for an additional fee.
Bands include: Rumpke Mountain Boys, Boogie Matrix, Glostik Willy, Lost on Iddings, Nine False Suns, Soul Rebels, Sol, Tony Herdman, Steve Schwartz, Dave DeVore and more.
The event is B.Y.O.B. (proper I.D. required) and guests are encouraged to bring their own food as well, but there will be vendors, dancers and more.
To purchase tickets, or for additional information about the show or organization, visit www.miamivalleymusicfest.com.

Larry Lyons at Leaf & Vine
TROY – Larry Lyons, a great solo guitarist and singer that performs classic rock and folk music will be at the Leaf & Vine this Saturday at 9 p.m. There is no cover charge and plenty of drink specials.

Cover It Up at LeDoux's
TROY - Come see My Miami County's house band free of charge tonight at 9 p.m. at LeDoux's new music hall in downtown Troy, the Voodoo Music Lounge. Cover It Up performs popular classic and modern rock, country and more.

Rising Light, Rising Energy: The Art & Tradition of Spring Tonic at Harmony Farm

TIPP CITY – Join certified herbalist Leah Rond as she leads a class participants in formulating their own custom spring tonic that suits individual needs and style. This class, which takes place from 9 a.m. to noon and is $45, will focus on the history and art of the spring tonic. As winter winds down and the beginning of spring makes itself known is the perfect time to bring some green into our systems. Herbs that help move our blood, clear our lymph and support our digestive system will be the focus as we learn about the traditional uses of spring tonics. Simple tonics from wild sourced salads to more complex elixirs will be discussed and created in the class. As the days start to get longer and cabin fever sets-in, join us for a lively session on raising our own energy with the abundance of the plants around us. For complete details, and to purchase tickets, click HERE.

Great Train Expo at Hara Arena – Saturday & Sunday
TROTWOOD – From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Hara Arena will host the Great Train Expo, featuring up to 500 tables of hobby train dealers, with everything from trains and rails to scenery, tools and more. The show also takes place Sunday starting at 10 a.m.

Live Music at the Night Sky Coffee House
TROY – Every Saturday night, the Night Sky Coffee House hosts free live music from musicians, songwriters and other performers, all in a comfortable, warm environment. The coffee shop is located at 18 N. Market St. and can be reached at 339-1300 and is open until 11 p.m. on Saturdays.

Foreigner will be at the comfortable and affordable
Taft Theatre at 8 p.m. Saturday. There is no bad seat at this venue.

Foreigner at Taft Theatre in Cincinnati
CINCINNATI - Foreigner will be at Taft Theatre at 8 p.m. Saturday, February 25. To purchase tickets, click HERE.

UD Flyers Versus Massachusetts
DAYTON – The Dayton Flyers will take on Massachusetts (should be an exciting game) at 6 p.m. tonight at University of Dayton Arena. Tickets start at $10 and concessions are available at the arena.

Adult Hike at Eastwood MetroPark
DAYTON – Eastwood MetroPark is interesting because it’s located directly next to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. In fact, I’m pretty sure that if you tried to go too far beyond the borders of the park, MPs would be on you in 5 seconds. However, during this weekend’s Adult Nature Walk from 9-11 a.m., this shouldn’t be of concern. What you will find is one of the area’s rare outdoor treasures and a place you’ll probably want to return to in the future. Bring your binoculars, as you’ll be watching for birds and other wildlife. The event is free and the park is located at 275-7275.

Dayton Gems Versus Arizona Sundogs
DAYTON – The Dayton Gems hockey team will face off against the Arizona Sundogs at 7 p.m. tonight. Tickets are $9 or $12 for front row.

Monthly Sports Card Show at Nutter
DAYTON – A sports card and collectibles show will take place from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday at the Nutter Center in Dayton. Admission is free and dealers buy, sell and trade.

Alt Eats Ethnic Food Tour in Columbus
COLUMBUS – From 6-9 p.m. Friday, travel the world while without leaving Columbus - this tour's itinerary will introduce you to some of the best ethnic food in the city. We'll experience a Nigerian food and hospitality, eat Vietnamese sandwiches, sample Somali cuisine, learn about Southern Indian food, and visit a Latino grocery store. This tour is fun, filling and informative. Join others in a comfortable 14 passenger van and learn about the cuisines and cultures of some of Columbus's finest immigrant kitchens. Meet at the Columbus Aquatics Center, 1160 Hunter Avenue in Columbus and call ahead for reservations at (614) 440-3177. The cost is $60 per person.

Sunday, February 26

Maple Syrup Weekend at Caesar Creek State Park
WAYNESVILLE – From 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Caesar Creek State Park, 8570 E. State Route 73, visit Pioneer Village and dine a fresh brunch (for a small fee) and then take a walking tour at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., noon or 1 p.m. to see how trees are drilled to collect sap for making syrup. Learn other facts, such as the health benefits (allergies!!!) of using locally produced maple syrup over store-bought syrup. For details, call (513) 897-2437. The event is free.

Day of Caring Pancake Brunch
TROY - From 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Sunday, the public is invited to the Annual Day of Caring Pancake Brunch at the First United Church of Christ, 120 S. Market St. in Troy. The one-day event brings together local churches and organizations as they host a pancake and sausage brunch to raise awareness to the problems of hunger and homelessness. The Day of Caring is a grass roots organization made up of volunteers committed to increasing personal awareness and involvement toward confronting the ever-increasing national plight of hunger and homelessness.
The First United Church of Christ congregation is excited about hosting the first Day of Caring event in Miami County. In 2011, 46 sites participated and raised more than $40,000. One hundred percent of the profits will go toward the First UCC Packpack Program, which provides food for 300 children at five elementary schools every weekend during the school year. Adult donation for the brunch are $6, senior citizens and children under 12 is a $4 donation.

Sunday Brunch at The Caroline

TROY - The Caroline hosts Sunday Brunch this Sunday and every week after from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The massive brunch is $13.95 for children and $5.95 for children under 12 and free for those 5 and under. To see the menu, click HERE. For more information, call (937) 552-7676.

Kids Eat Free at La Piazza
TROY - Every Sunday night (holidays excluded) beginning at 4 p.m., all kid's eat free of charge from anything on the La Piazza children's menu when accompanied by a full paying adult. The children's menu has Italian items, so the entire family can have the full experience of La Piazza!

Open Mic Comedy at Wiley's Comedy Club in Dayton
DAYTON - If you want to do something, there's no reason you shouldn't try, including trying to be a comedian. Every Sunday night starting at 8 p.m., Wiley's Comedy Club in Dayton hosts Open Mic Comedy Night. Participants must secure stage time by e-mailing Joanne Viskup at joanneviskup@hotmail. Admission is $7 and the public is welcome to come in to watch, dine on great nachos and beer and possibly even get a surprise visit by a famous local comedian. Wiley's is located at 101 Pine St. in the Oregon District. For more information, call (937) 224-JOKE.

Ongoing Events

See Three Amazing IMAX Movies at the AF Museum
DAYTON - The Museum of the United States Air Force in Dayton is free to get into and it's a great place to spend a cold winter day. To enhance a visit, and because you're already getting such a deal on the visit, check out three IMAX shows that take place at the museum. The current shows include "Rescue: Disaster Response," "Hubble" and "Fighter Pilot." Each show is in 2-D and makes visitors feel like they're in training camp with the fighter pilot, in space with Hubble and taking part in an amazing rescue with members of Wright Patterson Air Force Base. Shows take place in a revolving manner starting at 10 a.m. and lasting until 4 p.m. (the last show of the day) Monday-Friday and an additional show at 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sundays.

The Weekend Edition - February 16-19

2012-02-16T01:04:00.000-08:00

Casting Crowns Sold Out - Yellow Springs Cajun Invasion and Grand Lake Beach Party at Romers Still On
By Matt Bayman

The official No. 1 Jimmy Buffett tribute band
is playing a big party at Grand Lake St. Marys
this weekend. This is one in a number of
large events taking place this weekend.

The weekend is arriving, and for all those who weren't able to get tickets to the sold out Casting Crowns show at Hobart Arena, don't worry, there's plenty more to do. This is the weekend of The Wizard of Oz being shown on a big screen while an orchestra performs the music to the classic film. There's a painting party at the Nutter Center that looks like a combination between a 1990s rave and a friend's house-painting party (see below). Also at the Nutter Center on Friday is Disney's: Three Classic Fairy Tales - an elaborate presentation fit for kids and adults.
If I didn't have plans this weekend, I'd probably head up to Celina to see Parrots of the Caribbean, a band that has been named the official the No. 1 Jimmy Buffett tribute band in the world! They're playing as part of a huge party at Grand Lake St. Marys with lots more going on.
Or, course, I might also find myself in Yellow Springs this weekend.
On Friday, Yellow Springs will host the Cajun Invasion Pub Crawl - and event that combines the flavors of Cajun cuisine at local restaurants and the nightlife atmosphere of the Big Easy during Mardi Gras at local pubs.
Holly Simpson, Marketing and Events Coordinator for the Yellow Springs Chamber of Commerce, said the Cajun Invasion Pub Crawl is a “celebration of Cajun food and drink” and that there is no set time for the start of the event.
“Visitors can start their evening with dinner at one of the participating restaurants: Peach’s Grill, The Sunrise Café, The Winds Café, Ye Olde Trail Tavern or Chen’s Asian Bistro, or come early to stroll around town and sample the unique culture Yellow Springs has to offer, including 65 shops and attractions,” she said. The party will technically go on until the bars close their doors late in the evening. (Click HERE for the full story on the Cajun Invasion).
There are many great local events taking place this weekend too, including nature walks, group sweater knitting for the poor and more.
Have a great weekend and remember to tell your friends and relatives about My Miami County!

(Monday's edition will feature a Fat Tuesday party at LeDoux's Cajun Restaurant and the upcoming WinterFest at the Troy Eagles Park, plus much more!)

Thursday, February 16

Enjoy New Spring Items at Canal Street Primitives

Browse new spring items at
Canal Street Primitives, 9 E.
Canal St. in Troy (3 blocks south
of the Square from Market)
Open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wed-Sat.

TROY - January and February is when many shopkeepers attend out-of-state shows to buy new goods for their shops. The owners of Canal Street Primitives, 9 E. Canal St. in downtown Troy (3 blocks south of the Square) recently returned from a buying show and, along with new pieces of handmade furniture, hooked rugs and decorations and local pottery, will be displaying tons of new spring items. A spring open house is rumored. Canal Street Primitives is open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday and can be reached at (937) 216-9606. To learn more about Canal Street Primitives, click HERE.

Live Music by Scott Oglesbee at La Piazza
TROY – Pianist Scott Oglesbee will perform dinner music in the La Piazza bar area (it can be heard throughout the restaurant) tonight. The view of the Square from your dinner table with the combination of great dinner music and the best Italian food in town makes for a great evening. Call (937) 339-5553 for more information.

Plant Based Diets
DAYTON – From 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. today, PNC 2nd Street Market in Dayton invites guests to Persephone in exploring all the great reasons to follow a plant-based diet, as well as discuss practical ways to transition to eating this way as you make healthier, more sustainable food choices for yourself and your family. Persephone is a Certified World Peace Diet Facilitator and founder of the annual Dayton Vegan Challenge. The PNC 2nd Street Market is located at 600 E. Second St.

Music for the 99 Percent with Singer Songwriter Tom Neilson
DAYTON – From 7-10 p.m. tonight, Tom Neilson will perform “Music for the 99 Percent” at the Missing Peace Art Space at 234 S. Dutoit St. in Dayton. A donation of $5 or $10 is appreciated. For details, call (937) 241-4353.

Get in Shape at Brukner with New Trailblazers Program
TROY - Brukner Nature Center offers its new Trailblazers Program every Tuesday and Thursday from 4-5 p.m. Step outdoors with an energetic group of individuals that will utilize all of BNC’s grounds to add muscle conditioning and cardio, as well as the camaraderie of group exercise, to your daily life. As the first ever workout program at Brukner, Trailblazers will provide you with varied levels of cardio and muscle conditioning to meet your specific needs and desires. The cost is $2 per session for BNC members and $5 for non-members. For details, call (937) 698-6493 or e-mail wildlife@bruknernaturecenter.com.

International Folk Dance Lessons
KETTERING – At 7 p.m. tonight at the Michael Solomon Pavilion in Kettering, guests can pay $2 and learn how to folk dance. The Pavilion is located at 2917 Berkley St. and can be reached at (937) 294-9357.

Snowtubing Paradise is Just Down the Road - through Sunday

A tubing and snow boaring park in New Paris (near
Richmond) makes its own snow and offers family fun.

NEW PARIS - New Paris is the last community on the right when leaving Ohio and entering Indiana on Interstate 70. In this small town of less than 1,700 people and located 50 miles from the heart of downtown Troy, there is a place that specializes in snow tubing, sledding and other outdoor recreation. Valley's Edge Snow Tubing is open from 5-9 p.m. Thursday and Fridays; 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturdays; and noon to 8 p.m. Sundays. The price could be lower, but we have to remember that the facility has to pay to make snow on the ground. On Thursday nights, all guests can sled or tube for $6 an hour. On weekends, the price increases to $10 per hour for adults and $6 for kids 4-6 years old. To plan your family or group trip, visit http://www.valleysedgesnowtubing.com/.

$2 Margaritas at The Caroline
TROY - From 4 p.m. to close every Thursday, The Caroline's bar offers $2 margaritas. Order a small meal from the restaurant's brand new bar menu.

Friday, February 17

Disney Live: Three Classic Fairy Tales – through Sunday
DAYTON – At 6:30 p.m. Friday at the Nutter Center, 3640 Colonel Glenn Highway next to Wright State, Disney Live: Three Classic Fairy Tales will be performed. Join Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy as they bring the timeless fairytale adventures of Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast, and Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs to life. Featuring dynamic storytelling, award winning music, stunning costumes and glittering special effects, audiences will be captivated by the humor, fun and adventure of these spellbinding stories. Dream with the princesses, cheer for the heroes as they conquer evil villains, and marvel as these classic tales are brought to life. Tickets range in price from $17-$48.

Wizard of Oz with Orchestra - Friday & Saturday

Fans of the Wizard of Oz will enjoy a live orchestra
performing the music of the classic film as the film
is shown on a giant screen in Dayton.

DAYTON - Ever wonder why Dorothy, her three faithful companions, the Wicked Witch and the Wizard seem as fresh, real and endearing as the day this magical film hit the theaters in 1939? If you have children of your own, or grandchildren, or if you just have a child’s sense of wonder, plan to be here for the full-length film, a wonderful blend of Hollywood’s best with the live sound of a full orchestra. At 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra will perform the music of The Wizard of Oz as the movie is shown on the big screen at the Schuster Center in downtown Dayton. Tickets range in price from $23-$76 and can be purchased at http://www.ticketcenterstage.com/

Tiki Night at the Rink
DAYTON - Shake off the winter blues and visit MetroParks Ice Rink from 7-10 p.m. Friday for Tiki Night. Island-themed music, played by a DJ from Action Music, will sweep you up in the warm breezes and flowery smells of an island paradise…of Dayton? A fee of $5 covers admission and skate rental. For more information, call (937) 278-2607.

A Comic Fantasy at the Dayton Theatre Guild - Friday & Saturday
DAYTON – David Davalos will present Wittenberg at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday at the Dayton Theatre Guild, 430 Wayne Ave. This comic fantasy has Prince Hamlet (yes, that one) at the famous German university with Dr. Faustus and Martin Luther battling over faith and reason. The battle culminates in the nailing of the theses on the church door in this witty think-along that is less like university finals and more like spring break. Sometimes the truth is funny... and the consequences even funnier. Tickets range in price from $12 for students to $17 for adults. The show is appropriate for teenage audiences and older. For more information, call (937) 278-5993.

Academy Awards Dance Party
DAYTON – At 7:30 p.m. there will be a group class, followed by a dance party at 8:15 p.m. at the Always Ballroom, 552 Wilmington Ave. in Dayton. For details, call (937) 256-2626. The cost of the evening is $15 and includes refreshments and the dance lesson.

DJ Tre Alexander at The Attic
KETTERING - DJ Tre Alexander will begin spinning the night away at The Attic, 2852 Wilmington Pike, Kettering at 7 p.m. and will last into the night. Admission is $8.

Dayton Gems at Hara
DAYTON – The Dayton Gems will battle the Allen Americans at 7 p.m. tonight at Hara Arena in Dayton. The cost is $9 and tickets can be purchased at (937) 278-4776.

Jukebox Friday at the Leaf & Vine
TROY – The Leaf & Vine will put the money in and patrons can choose the music tonight until 1 a.m. Also enjoy drink specials, the largest walk-in humidor in the Northern Miami Valley and a fine collection of bourbon and scotch.

Singles Dance in Botkins
BOTKINS – If you’re between the ages of 40 and 65, head to The Palazzo in the small village of Botkins where the largest singles dance in the entire region takes place, frequently bringing in more than 300 people. There is food, alcohol and regular drinks and a live band. The focal point of the night is dancing and doors open at 7 p.m. Stop in early for free line dancing lessons and then find that special someone. Admission is $7. For details, call (937) 693-6325. The Palazzo is located at 309 S. Main St.

Video DJ at Club 55 - Friday & Saturday
TROY - Club 55 in Troy has a live video DJ every Friday and Saturday night and one of the busiest dance floors in Miami County. There is a small cover charge after 9 p.m. and nobody under age 21 is permitted.

Family Day at the Air Force Museum
DAYTON - Along with free admission for the museum and possibly a small fee for an IMAX film, the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force will host Family Day: Robots Among Us. The focus on the event is Mars and children will get to see aerospace demonstration stations. The event takes place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Saturday, February 18

Beach Party at Romer's in Celina
CELINA - Starting at 6 p.m. Saturday, Romer's, 1101 W. Bank Road in Celina will host a Beach Party with live music by Top Shelf at 7 p.m. and Parrots of the Caribbean at 9 p.m. The event is being held to "shake off the winter chills with a night of dancing, drinks and laughter with the nation's premier Jimmy Buffett tribute band, Parrots of the Caribbean". The cost of the event is $15 per person and there is a cash bar. Proceeds go to the Lake Improvement Association. Along with the above fun, there will be door prizes, raffles, a 50/50, silent auctions and more, and prizes for best dressed and best T-shirt contest will win prizes. So dress like a pirate, a parrot, or whatever sea-faring island theme you'd like and compete for cash prizes. In an effort to keep safe, Romer's is offering a special one-night only rate of $75 for 2 and 3-bedroom villas. For details or call (419) 584-0606. Tickets to this event can be purchased at http://www.romerscatering.com/ or at Duckfoot's Bar & Grill, Sunnyside Inn and the Celina Moose.

Considered the Miami Valley's No. 1 band,
Higgens-Madewell will make their debut
this weekend at LeDoux's in Troy.

Higgins-Madewell at LeDoux's Voodoo Music Hall
TROY - The most popular band in the Miami Valley, according to recent polls, Higgins-Madewell, will perform at 9 p.m. Saturday at LeDoux's Voodoo Music Hall at 118 W. Main St. in downtown Troy. There is no cover charge.

Public Skating at Hobart Arena
TROY – Public skating will be open at Hobart Arena in Troy from 2-4 p.m. today (Saturday) and 8-10 p.m. tonight and from 2-4 p.m. tomorrow (Sunday). The cost is $5 for adults and $4 for youths 14 and younger. Skate rental is $2.50.

Visit the Largest Collection of Halloween Merchandise in Piqua

If you love Halloween, visit The Apple Tree Gallery
in downtown Piqua and see an entire floor of the
business dedicated to Halloween!

PIQUA - Halloween, like Christmas, is the sort of holiday you can be reminded of during the funniest times, such as in February or April. The Apple Tree Gallery in Piqua has an entire floor of Halloween items that can get you through these short term crises. The store also has year-round Christmas and, simply put, it's just a fun place to shop. Other popular items include wine toppers that glow and twinkle and rare antiques. The Apple Tree Gallery is located at 405 N. Main St. in downtown Piqua and is near many other consignment and antique and collectible stores. The shop is open 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday and 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. For more information, click HERE.

Project Linus Make a Blanket Day Event & Collection Site (Ginghamsburg Church)
TIPP CITY - At 10 a.m. Saturday at the Ginghamsburg Church Discipleship Center, 7695 S. County Road 25-A in Tipp City, the public is invited to make blankets for children in need. Blanket makers of all kinds are welcome, including beginners. This is a way to learn a trade while helping out the less fortunate. Some pre-cut kits will be available, as well as a limited number of extra sewing machines. Irons/boards and rotary cutting mats will be available for use too. The event is open to teenagers and older. For more information, email quiltingbonnie@gmail.com.

Diddley Band at Oscar's Bar & Grill
VANDALIA - Diddley, a group that continues to grow in popularity in the Miami Valley, will perform at 9 p.m. tonight at Oscar's, 320 N. Dixie Dr. in Vandalia.

RWVA Appleseed Rifle Marksmanship & Heritage Clinic in Piqua
Learn Better Marksmanship
PIQUA - Starting at 8:30 a.m. Saturday morning at the Piqua Fish & Game Club, 9344 N. Spiker Road in Piqua, the RWVA Appleseed Rifle Marksmanship & Heritage Clinic will take place. Range Fees for this event are $10 per event and includes a number of areas to learn. All participants should be prepared for the event by researching HERE.

Learn the Basics of 19th Century Meat Preservation
HUBER HEIGHTS - For $20 per person, area residents can learn the basics of 19th century meat preservation. The class will take place at Carriage Hill MetroPark & Farm from 1-3 p.m. Saturday and registration is required by calling (937) 278-2609. Participants will learn the basics of 19th century meat preservation techniques, such as salting and curing pork, and the cold smoking process. Lastly, try your hand at making sausage. For the $20, the meat is provided. Carriage Hill is located directly off of State Route 201 on the north side of Huber Heights at 7850 E. Shull Road.

Dayglow: World's Largest Paint Party at Wright State

Paint with friends, have a good time, break records!

DAYTON - DAYGLOW, “The World’s Largest Paint Party,” began in 2006 on college campuses in Florida. Since then, it has quickly taken the nation by storm by positioning itself as a one-of-a-kind experience. Now, hundreds of thousands of people have witnessed this spectacular show that fuses high-energy music, art, dance, and paint into one mind blowing combination. A Dayglow experience will take place at 7 p.m. Saturday at the Nutter Center and the cost starts at $31 per person, which includes paint. From what we can gather here at My Miami County, this event sounds like an old-fashioned rave with paint. Guests must be 21 years of age and older.

Dayton Gems Versus Bloomington Blaze
DAYTON - The Dayton Gems will face off against the Bloomington Blaze at 7 p.m. tonight at Hara Arena in Dayton. Tickets range in price from $9-$13 and the first 500 in attendance always get something fun to take home with them. For tickets or additional information, click HERE.

Cat Show at Montgomery County Fairgrounds
DAYTON - The Kittyhawk Felines Annual CFA Cat Show will open at 9 a.m. at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds, 1043 S. Main St. in Dayton, just off of Interstate 75 near the 35 interchange. The cost is $5 for adults; $3 for children 6-12; $4 for seniors; and free for children five and under. The show features 100s of beautiful cats of different breeds. There will be vendors for cats and other cat-themed booths at the event. For details, call (937) 224-1619.

10th Annual TechFest 2012
DAYTON - TechFest is free family fun with science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) and it takes place starting at 10 a.m. Saturday at Sinclair Community College in downtown Dayton. The program features hands-on interactive exhibits demonstrated by practicing scientists and engineers. Topics cover a wide range from life sciences to aviation, weather, and environment. Youth (k-12) and their parents can ask questions. Also, stage demonstrations and presentations on STEM topics, such as remote piloted vehicles, science of music, chemistry, and more "info-tainment." The event is free and there is free parking at the school.

"Dayton's Cosmic Americana Band" in Oregon District
DAYTON - The Elderly Brothers: Dayton's Cosmic Americana Band, will perform at the Oregon Express, 336 E. Fifth St. in the Oregon District Dayton at 9:30 p.m.

Intro to the Glen Hike
YELLOW SPRINGS - Glen Helen Ranger Susan Smith will be the tour guide for a whirlwind introduction to the history, program, and people of Glen Helen during a family hike at 1 p.m. with participants meeting at the Glen Helen Building, 405 Corry St. This two-hour hike visits the Nature Shop, the Auditorium, the Raptor Center, Trailside Museum and all the natural landmarks in between. The hike departs from the Corry Street parking lot at 1 p.m. For details, call (937) 769-1902.

Sunday, February 19

Circo Comedia

Head up to New Bremen for this amazing show.

NEW BREMEN - At 4 p.m. Sunday at the James F. Dicke Auditorium at the New Bremen High School, Circo Comedia will take place. The show is action-packed with stunts and acrobats by a professional team. It's very impressive and an amazing experience that only New Bremen can afford to bring to such a small town. Tickets are $20 for adults and $12 for students and can be purchased at the Box Office at Western Ohio True Value in Minster or by calling (419) 733-0252.

Sunday Afternoon at the Museum Series Explores the Paranormal
VERSAILLES - At 2 p.m. Sunday at the Museum at Versailles, 552 S. West St. in Versailles, local Darke County author, Rita Arnold will share the paranormal activities around the county during the "Sunday Afternoon at the Museum" series at The Versailles Area Museum. Joining Rita will be several members of the Darke County Center for the Arts “story tellers” from their noted annual “Ghost Walk” in Greenville each October. They will share stories in the first person about some interesting characters of Darke County (Could they be some of your relatives)? Come to the museum and bring your local tales to tell! Also several displays will be available to view as work continues on the facility. This event is free and open to the public. For details, call J.R. Kelch at (937) 526-4222.

Hot Wheels Show
DAYTON - The Hot Wheels Show returns to Hara's East Hall on Sunday, February 19 with over 100 displays of Hot Wheels, Matchbox and Johnny Lightning collectibles. Show hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults, kids under 12 are free. For more information, or to reserve a table, call John Hodges at (937) 276-5246.

Sunday Brunch at The Caroline
TROY - The Caroline hosts Sunday Brunch this Sunday and every week after from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The massive brunch is $13.95 for children and $5.95 for children under 12 and free for those 5 and under. For $3 off this Sunday Brunch, click HERE. (No black ink will print when printing this coupon. It's just a background for the coupon and takes up very little ink). For more information, call (937) 552-7676.

Kids Eat Free at La Piazza
TROY - Every Sunday night (holidays excluded) beginning at 4 p.m., all kid's eat free of charge from anything on the La Piazza children's menu when accompanied by a full paying adult. The children's menu has Italian items, so the entire family can have the full experience of La Piazza!

Open Mic Comedy at Wiley's Comedy Club in Dayton
DAYTON - If you want to do something, there's no reason you shouldn't try, including trying to be a comedian. Every Sunday night starting at 8 p.m., Wiley's Comedy Club in Dayton hosts Open Mic Comedy Night. Participants must secure stage time by e-mailing Joanne Viskup at joanneviskup@hotmail. Admission is $7 and the public is welcome to come in to watch, dine on great nachos and beer and possibly even get a surprise visit by a famous local comedian. Wiley's is located at 101 Pine St. in the Oregon District. For more information, call (937) 224-JOKE.

2012-02-12T21:02:00.000-08:00

Monday, February 13 through Sunday, February 19, 2012
Marion's Opening, Casting Crowns in Town and The Wizard of Oz
Valentines Day Dates Still Available
By Matt Bayman

The big news this week is the Casting Crowns show at
Hobart Arena on Friday night. Casting Crowns is one of
the most popular Christian bands in history.

It's hard to believe that it's already the middle of February. Before we know it, tulips will be springing up (I've already seen a few sprouts in my front yard flower beds) and swimming pools will be cleaned out and filled with fresh, clear water. But for now, it's still winter, no matter what the temperature reads outside. This week is going to be a little cooler than what we've enjoyed lately, with the possibility of a little snow. This week and weekend are filled with great activities for families, single people and, especially, couples. When Valentines Day falls in the middle of the week, as it does this year, restaurants, spas and the flower businesses make out double. This is because half the men in this country are going to forget to plan something super special this past weekend and will need to rely on next weekend to save them. No worries though, there's plenty of romantic and fun things to do.
This is also the big week of the Casting Crowns show in Troy, which, in the world of Christian music, is liking having The Beatles in town. The award-winning band will be at Hobart Arena this Friday and tickets are still available. This is also the week of The Wizard of Oz by the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra and on Tuesday, Marion's Pizza opens in Troy!

This is not a picture of the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra
performing The Wizard of Oz, but you get the picture :)

Entertainment News
In this week's Entertainment News, we look at Winan's Chocolates for Valentines Day and the Polar Plunge in Columbus this weekend that involves actual, real polar bears! Click HERE.

The Leftovers
My son and I love Brukner Nature Center. My family are members, he's about to join the PEEPS program and we go there at least once a week to hike and say hello to our animal friends. During my last visit, I came up with 10 things that a father and son, or mother and daughter, grandpa and grandson (whatever!) can do at Brukner Nature Center, no matter what the temperature ... almost. Find out what they are HERE.

Also, my daughter, Penny, was born on Valentines Day last year. I wrote a little story about what this means to me.

Monday, February 13

Lunch at La Piazza
TROY - Not all restaurants are open on Mondays in downtown Troy. One of the greatest exceptions, and one of the best-tasting deals in the region in my opinion, is La Piazza, which is open for lunch and dinner. The La Piazza lunch buffet is a very inexpensive way to have a great Italian meal. For $8.95 you can feast on salad, bread with herb butter, two soups and a great pizza each day plus a revolving list of great main dishes, from sausage tortelloni with meat sauce and stuffed meatloaf to fettucine with cabbage and onions and linguini with clam sauce, among others. Click HERE for this week's lunch buffet menu.

Dinner (or Brunch) and a Movie in Yellow Springs
Growing Up Female Documentary to be Viewed Sunday at 4 p.m.

YELLOW SPRINGS - Another great way to celebrate Valentines Day (if you forgot it, or plan it) is to do Dinner and Movie with the Sunrise Cafe and Little Art Theatre in Yellow Springs. For $20 per person, couples can dine at the Sunrise Cafe at 6 p.m., which includes a soup, salad and entree and the movie. The featured movie, which starts at 7 p.m. is War Horse. To view the trailer for the award-winning film by Steven Spielberg, click HERE.

Yellow Springs also hosts Brunch and a Movie every Sunday, which is $15 per person and features brunch at The Winds Cafe & Bakery and a movie, which also will be War Horse, or, on Sunday only, at 4 p.m., will be the documentary Growing Up Female. For more information on all of this fun stuff, click HERE.

Take Free Walks at Hobart Arena
TROY - One of the most widely participated in activity at Hobart Arena is walking. Each morning, the arena opens its doors and folks are allowed to come and walk the interior of the building. Enough times around the arena equals one mile, plus there are new friends to meet and strollers are welcome. It's warm too. Another great place to simply get out and walk is the Miami Valley Center Mall in Piqua. You can cover a few miles if you plan your steps correctly. For more information on Hobart Arena, click HERE.

Join the Friends of the Troy Public Library Board
TROY - If you're interested in advocating for the Troy Library, attend the public Friends of the Troy Public Library Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m. Monday night.

Art Start at the Tipp City Public Library
TIPP CITY - Sign up you and your child ages 3-5 for Art Start, this week featuring Fabric Fun. The group meets from 6-7 p.m. at the library and is free. The child must be accompanied by an adult and must be between 3-5. For more information, call (937) 667-3826.

Mayhem & Mystery Dinner Theatre in Dayton (Valentines Day Save!)

DAYTON - If you're bored and looking for a little excitement on a Monday night. Or, if you're badly in need of a surprise, last-minute-planned Valentines Day date, The Spaghetti Warehouse in Dayton can take care of you. For $25.95 per person, guests can enjoy a huge dinner from the prominent restaurant and an exciting, interactive murder mystery show. The show is appropriate for teenagers and older and also can be a great family Valentines Day treat. For reservations, call (937) 461-3913. The show starts at 7 p.m. Ask about dinner times when making your reservation.

Try Out for a Dayton Theatre Guild Show or Become a Stage Hand
DAYTON - The first "amateur theater" I ever saw was a performance of "The Vagina Monologues," a much more moving and passionate performance than the title may lead you to believe. Since then, I've seen much more amateur theater and the more I see, the more I realize how talented actors are around here.
The guild will be taking auditions tonight at 7 p.m. for its upcoming presentation of St. Ives. All aspiring actors 18 years of age and older are welcome to try out for shows by going to the Dayton Theatre Guild, 430 Wayne Ave. in Dayton. Auditions will continue tomorrow and beyond. The Guild also welcomes volunteers who want to learn how to run lights and sound, build sets or act as host. No experience is necessary. To inquire about these volunteer positions, click HERE. For more information, call (937) 278-5993.

Ladies Night at the Boomerang Pub
PIQUA – The Boomerang Pub hosts Ladies Night every Monday with discounted drinks for all, but even more discounted for female clients. Enjoy a game of pool, listen to live music, play Wii Bowling, throw darts and more, and enjoy a mixed crowd of people all looking to have a good time. The pub is located at 8285 N. Dixie Dr. in Piqua (at the old Mug & Jug) and accessible from the second Piqua exit, Exit 83 from I-75. For more information, call (937) 778-0460.

Tuesday, February 14

Enjoy a romantic evening tonight
at La Piazza in downtown Troy.

All Inclusive Dinner at La Piazza

TROY - La Piazza will host an all-inclusive Valentines Day meal for two for $60. The meal starts with a mini antipasto plate and house salad, as well as jumbo gulf shrimp sautéed with lemon, wine and garlic served over toasted Italian bread or pesto grilled sliced 4-oz filet mignon served over toasted Italian bread with au jus. Both come with red velvet cupcakes for dessert. The full menu also will be available for the evening. To see the menu, click HERE.

Valentines Day at The Caroline

TROY - There will be a very special Valentines Day meal served at The Caroline tonight for dinner. Reservations are accepted by calling (937) 552-7676.

The meal includes a choice of salad (Chocolate Grape or Garden), entree (Peppercorn House Steak, Salmon Dijonaisse, Stuffed Portabella Jardiniere or Chicken Breast Oscar) and dessert (Double Chocolate Cake or Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake). Prices vary per meal.

The most famous pizza makers in Dayton history
will officially open in Troy on Valentines Day.

Marion's Pizza Opens for Business

TROY - The new Marion's Pizza opens for business Tuesday, serving lunch and dinner and all of those famous pizzas that Troy residents and beyond have waited to see in Miami County. The new restaurant is located on Experiment Farm Road (across from Frickers) on the west side of Troy and has a seating capacity of 528 people and an outdoor patio, making it the second largest Marion's Pizza in the world! For more information, click HERE.

A Romantic Dinner at The Backyard Bistro
PIQUA - For $35 per couple, couples can enjoy a romantic dinner at The Backyard Bistro (one of Miami County's best kept dining secrets) with live music, white linens and candles and a spread of delicious food from Chef Gwen Rose. Reservations are required by calling (937) 615-9554. The dinner is served between 5:30-8 p.m. at 1876 Commerce Dr. on the west side of Piqua as you're going west on US 36 toward Covington. For details, call (937) 615-9554.

Valentines Dinner at The Inn at Versailles
VERSAILLES - Dine at one of the highest rated restaurants in the region for Valentines Day. The restaurant, which also has a bed and breakfast if you're interested, has a menu from Chef Michael Anthony and includes a variety of pasta, steaks, organic salmon, grilled asparagus and much more. For dessert, try Chocolate Decadence. To make reservations at the Inn, call (937) 526-3020. For more information, click HERE.

Join the Mystery Book Group at the Troy Library
TROY - The local Mystery Book Group meets at 10 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. today and shares thoughts with others who have read the monthly title. Drop in to get started with the adult group. The group meets in the library's meeting room and is free.

Poetry Writing Group at Troy Library
TROY - From 12:30 p.m. until 2:30 p.m. today in the meeting room at the Troy Public Library, aspiring poets can come together to do what they love most, write and share poetry. The group is open to the public and new members are always welcome.

Volunteer Orientation for Hospice
DAYTON - Heartland Hospice of Dayton will host a volunteer orientation at noon today at 3131 S. Dixie Dr. in Dayton. The event is for those 18 and older and is free. For details, click HERE.

Valentines Day Jazz
DAYTON - Enjoy Jazz music and a glass of wine at Jazz Central in West Dayton. The special Valentines Day show starts at 7:30 p.m. with a $5 cover charge at the door. The club is located at 2931 E. Third St. and can be reached at (937) 254-8130. For more information on the local Jazz scene, visit www.jazzadvocate.com.

Sweetheart Skate
DAYTON - Couples can enjoy Sweetheart Skate at the RiverScape MetroPark in Dayton starting at 5:30 p.m. The cost is reduced to $3 per person (including skate rental) and slow music will be played to honor the romance of the evening. For details, call (937) 278-2607.

Free Entrepreneurial Seminar in Dayton
DAYTON - At 11:30 a.m. today at The Entrepreneurs Center, 714 E. Monument Ave. in Dayton, businesspeople are invited to listen to Nicole Luisi, from Aileron, as she discusses "the key steps in strategic planning, common pitfalls, and how best to use when transitioning leadership roles." A box lunch and beverage can be ordered in advance for $9 by e-mailing ednboxlunch@daytonregion.com. For more information, call (937) 281-0118.

Karaoke at The Brewery
TROY – The Brewery has karaoke every Tuesday night from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m., plus drink specials. There is no cover charge.

Adult Public Bingo in West Milton
WEST MILTON – The West Milton Eagles will host public bingo from 6:30-9:30 p.m. at 2270 S. Miami St. There is a bar and lots of money to be won. Bingo takes place every Tuesday and benefits the Eagle's softball team. All are welcome. For more information, call (937) 543-9959.

Wednesday, February 15

New Spring Items Arriving Daily at Canal Street Primitives

Canal Street Primitives in downtown
Troy is working on its upcoming
Spring Open House in March, but
until then, new items will
be arriving
weekly.

Vietnam

. He flew more than 100 combat missions, mostly in support of top secret CIA operations in

Laos

Cambodia

, and

North Vietnam

. He will explain the origin of the Black Mariah helicopter that resides in the National AF Museum at Wright Patterson AFB.
The event is free and takes place at 1865 S. County Road 25-A between Troy and Tipp City. For more details, call (937) 335-9226.

UD Flyers Versus Charlotte
DAYTON – The UD Flyers will face off against Charlotte at 7 p.m. tonight at the University of Dayton Arena, 1801 S. Edwin C. Moses Blvd.
For the ultimate guide to UD Men’s Basketball, click HERE. Tickets start at $12 each and food and concessions, including beer, are available during the game.

Be a part of the audience
for this upcoming PBS
show on Generations.

Be Part of Audience Taping for PBS Programs
DAYTON –

America

’s Generations with Chuck Underwood: Live Audience Taping for PBS will take place at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday at the Sinclair Community College, Building 12 (Frederick Smith Auditorium in the Great Hall).
The show’s topics will be “GenX: 59-Million Armies of One” and “Millennials: The New World.” The following night, same time, same location, the taping of “Boomers: Forever Young” will be the featured topic for the show. This event is completely free and can be signed up for by calling (937) 433-2032 ext.100. All audience members must be 18 years of age or older.

Songwriters and Storytellers at Therapy Cafe
DAYTON – Every Wednesday at 9 p.m. at the Therapy Café in Dayton, patrons 18 years of age and older can enjoy the music of local, talented singer/songwriters for free. Slots are open for musicians by calling (937) 461-4000 or click HERE. The Therapy Café is located at 452 E. Third St. and is open from 5 p.m. to 2:30 A.M. 7 days a week.

Wright State Men's Basketball Versus Detroit Mercy
DAYTON – The Wright State Raiders will take on Detroit Mercy at 7 p.m. tonight at the Ervin J Nutter Center in Dayton (Wright State Campus). To purchase tickets, click HERE.

Live Trivia at Wings
DAYTON – Wings Sports Bar & Grill hosts Trivia Night every Wednesday starting at 6:30 p.m. Participants must be 21 years of age and older. Prizes are won. For more information, call (937) 898-0280 or click HERE.

Open Bowling at Troy Bowl, Plus Billiards and Beer
TROY – Open bowling is available at Troy Bowl from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. Wednesday-Friday and noon to 9 p.m. Saturday. The bowling alley also has a pool table and video games a full pizza and food restaurant and beer and liquor. The bowling alley is located at 1530 McKaig Ave. and can be reached at (937) 339-3315.

The Science of Magic (Revealed)

COLUMBUS - For centuries, magicians have used scientific principles to make people levitate in mid-air and vanish in the blink of an eye. Illusionist Bill Blagg's one-of-a-kind educational experience takes guests to Lincoln Theatre, 769 Long St. in Columbus, on a rare, never-before-seen journey "behind the scenes" of the magic world. The Science of Magic is designed to excite, educate, intrigue and encourage students to think "outside the box" and spawn their curiosity about how science and the Scientific Method are used by magicians to create the impossible. The show will take place at 10 a.m. and the cost is $5 per person. For details, call (614) 469-1045. For more information on Blagg, click HERE.

Couples Massage at Harmony Farm & other Valentines Day Package

The Couples Massage Room at Harmony Farm.
It's not too late to schedule a romantic time for V-Day!

TIPP CITY - For a shared holistic, healing experience, enjoy a couple’s therapeutic massage for $150 for one hour massages or $340 for two hour massages. Family, friends or couples receive their massages with their own individual therapist at the same time, in the same room. When scheduling you may specify a specific massage modality (i.e. Swedish, deep tissue, reflexology, cranial sacral) for each individual. Consider adding a hot tub or steam room, prior to the massage, creating the opportunity to deepen your experience. A couple’s massage is a beautiful way to introduce the relaxing power of touch to a partner or friend who has never received a therapeutic massage. To set up your experience, call (937) 667-8311. Click HERE for all the different massage options available at Harmony Farm. And click HERE for all of the Valentines Day packages.

Belly Dancing Lessons (Beginner and Advanced) at Harmony Farm
TIPP CITY – From 7:30-8:30 p.m. tonight, guests to Harmony Farm can drop in and see if they’d like to sign up for the next session of Intermediate to Advanced Belly Dancing with Abernathy. Beginner Belly Dancing is offered from 6:15-7:15 p.m. The drop-in fee is $15 for either class and participants will work on attuning the brain and body, as well as strengthening any contemporary belly dancer’s arsenal of moves. For more information on Harmony Farm, click HERE. New six-week classes for belly dancing will be stating soon.

Walking a labyrinth is an ancient way to relieve stress
and to open your mind. You can do it for a donation (or free)
at Harmony Farm in Tipp City almost any day of the week.

Walk the Labyrinth – A Blueprint for Transformation
TIPP CITY – There is no right or wrong way to walk the labyrinth. As Lauren Artress states in her book, The Sacred Path Companion, A Guide to Walking the Labyrinth to Heal and Transform: “when you want the benefits of a quiet mind, a prayerful heart, a release from controlling behavior, find your way to a labyrinth.” You define your own experience.” The Harmony Farm labyrinth is reflective of the center’s vision, “a natural place to be.” Set aside some time to walk the labyrinth, enjoy the peacefulness of nature, step out of the business of life, that is, as long as it’s between the hours of 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Saturday. Call first (937) 667-8311 to confirm availability or to set up an appointment. There is no fee for the visit, but donations are accepted. The labyrinth is located on the east end of this amazing property that overlooks the Miami Valley and, specifically, Tipp City. It is a beautiful view.

Tickets Go On Sale for Brad Paisley’s Virtual Reality Tour w/ The Band Perry & Scott McCrerry
CINCINNATI – Tickets for Brad Paisley's Virtual Reality Tour w/ The Band Perry & Scott McCrerry go on sale at 10 a.m. this morning for a show that takes place at Riverbend Music Center in Cincinnati on Sunday, May 20. To purchase tickets, visit www.ticketmaster.com.

Open Mic Night at the Leaf & Vine
TROY – Free food for all patrons and discounted drinks for musicians. Stop by the Leaf & Vine between 8-11 p.m. Wednesday for the only open mic night in town. Bring your own instrument or play the house guitar and piano. Experienced and novice musicians are welcome. There is no cover charge. Stop back in Saturday for live music, where there’s never a cover charge!

Half Price Appetizers at La Piazza

TROY - Every Wednesday evening, La Piazza offers its appetizer menu at half price. Another feature of the restaurant on this night and every day of the work week is Happy Hour from 4:30-6 p.m. Monday-Friday. While enjoying some appetizers in the bar, guests take advantage of discounts on all beer and house wines. Click HERE for more information.

Thursday, February 16

Live Music by Scott Oglesbee at La Piazza

TROY – Pianist Scott Oglesbee will perform dinner music in the La Piazza bar area (it can be heard throughout the restaurant) tonight. The view of the Square from your dinner table with the combination of great dinner music and the best Italian food in town makes for a great evening. Call (937) 339-5553 for more information.

Plant Based Diets

DAYTON – From 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. today, PNC 2nd Street Market in Dayton invites guests to Persephone in exploring all the great reasons to follow a plant-based diet, as well as discuss practical ways to transition to eating this way as you make healthier, more sustainable food choices for yourself and your family. Persephone is a Certified World Peace Diet Facilitator and founder of the annual Dayton Vegan Challenge. The PNC 2^nd Street Market is located at 600 E. Second St. Click HERE for more information.

Music for the 99 Percent with Singer Songwriter Tom Neilson

DAYTON – From 7-10 p.m. tonight, Tom Neilson will perform “Music for the 99 Percent” at the Missing Peace Art Space at 234 S. Dutoit St. in Dayton. A donation of $5 or $10 is appreciated. For details, call (937) 241-4353 or click HERE for more information.

Join other outdoor fitness buffs at Brukner Nature
Center and get in shape in 2012!

Get in Shape at Brukner with New Trailblazers Program
TROY - Brukner Nature Center offers its new Trailblazers Program every Tuesday and Thursday from 4-5 p.m. Step outdoors with an energetic group of individuals that will utilize all of BNC’s grounds to add muscle conditioning and cardio, as well as the camaraderie of group exercise, to your daily life. As the first ever workout program at Brukner, Trailblazers will provide you with varied levels of cardio and muscle conditioning to meet your specific needs and desires. The cost is $2 per session for BNC members and $5 for non-members. For details, call (937) 698-6493 or e-mail wildlife@bruknernaturecenter.com.

International Folk Dance Lessons

KETTERING – At 7 p.m. tonight at the Michael Solomon Pavilion in Kettering, guests can pay $2 and learn how to folk dance. The Pavilion is located at 2917 Berkley St. and can be reached at (937) 294-9357.

Snowtubing Paradise is Just Down the Road - through Sunday

$2 Margaritas at The Caroline
TROY - From 4 p.m. to close every Thursday, The Caroline's bar offers $2 margaritas. Order a small meal from the restaurant's brand new bar menu.

Friday, February 17

Several years back, when Hobart Arena sent out hundreds
of questionnaires asking people what type of music they
wanted to hear at the arena it was country, Christian
rock and classic rock. With Casting Crowns, Hobart
is living up to its promises. The group was recently
named "Artist of the Year."

Casting Crowns at Hobart Arena
TROY - One much anticipated event will take place at Hobart Arena in Troy on February 17 when the Christian band Casting Crowns performs at 7 p.m. Ken Siler, director of recreation in Troy, said the last time Casting Crowns performed at Hobart Arena, it was a sold out show.

"We're expecting a big crowd this time," Siler said earlier this year. To discover the excitement about Casting Crowns visit www.castingcrowns.com where videos and music downloads can be seen and listened to. Tickets can be purchased by clicking HERE or calling (937) 339-2911.

Disney Live: Three Classic Fairy Tales – through Sunday

DAYTON – At 6:30 p.m. Friday at the Nutter Center, 3640 Colonel Glenn Highway next to Wright State, Disney Live: Three Classic Fairy Tales will be performed. Join Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy as they bring the timeless fairytale adventures of Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast, and Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs to life. Featuring dynamic storytelling, award winning music, stunning costumes and glittering special effects, audiences will be captivated by the humor, fun and adventure of these spellbinding stories. Dream with the princesses, cheer for the heroes as they conquer evil villains, and marvel as these classic tales are brought to life. Tickets range in price from $17-$48 and can be purchased HERE.

Wizard of Oz with Orchestra - Friday & Saturday

Watch the movie on the big screen,
but hear the music of this classic
film by a live orchestra!

Tiki Night at the Rink

DAYTON - Shake off the winter blues and visit MetroParks Ice Rink from 7-10 p.m. Friday for Tiki Night. Island-themed music, played by a DJ from Action Music, will sweep you up in the warm breezes and flowery smells of an island paradise…of Dayton? A fee of $5 covers admission and skate rental. For more information, call (937) 278-2607.

A Comic Fantasy at the Dayton Theatre Guild - Friday & Saturday

DAYTON – David Davalos will present Wittenberg at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday at the Dayton Theatre Guild, 430 Wayne Ave. This comic fantasy has Prince Hamlet (yes, that one) at the famous German university with Dr. Faustus and Martin Luther battling over faith and reason. The battle culminates in the nailing of the theses on the church door in this witty think-along that is less like university finals and more like spring break. Sometimes the truth is funny... and the consequences even funnier. Click HERE for a sneak preview of the show. Tickets range in price from $12 for students to $17 for adults. The show is appropriate for teenage audiences and older. For more information, call (937) 278-5993.

Academy Awards Dance Party

DAYTON – At 7:30 p.m. there will be a group class, followed by a dance party at 8:15 p.m. at the Always Ballroom, 552 Wilmington Ave. in Dayton. For details, call (937) 256-2626 or click HERE. The cost of the evening is $15 and includes refreshments and the dance lesson.

DJ Tre Alexander
will be a big hit
in Kettering this
weekend.

DJ Tre Alexander at The Attic
KETTERING - DJ Tre Alexander will begin spinning the night away at The Attic, 2852 Wilmington Pike, Kettering at 7 p.m. and will last into the night. Admission is $8. For details on The Attic, click HERE.

Dayton Gems at Hara
DAYTON – The Dayton Gems will battle the Allen Americans at 7 p.m. tonight at Hara Arena in Dayton. The cost is $9 and tickets can be purchased at (937) 278-4776.

Jukebox Friday at the Leaf & Vine
TROY – The Leaf & Vine will put the money in and patrons can choose the music tonight until 1 a.m. Also enjoy drink specials, the largest walk-in humidor in the Northern Miami Valley and a fine collection of bourbon and scotch.

Singles Dance in Botkins
BOTKINS – If you’re between the ages of 40 and 65, head to The Palazzo in the small village of Botkins where the largest singles dance in the entire region takes place, frequently bringing in more than 300 people. There is food, alcohol and regular drinks and a live band. The focal point of the night is dancing and doors open at 7 p.m. Stop in early for free line dancing lessons and then find that special someone. Admission is $7. For details, call (937) 693-6325. The Palazzo is located at 309 S. Main St.

Video DJ at Club 55 - Friday & Saturday
TROY - Club 55 in Troy has a live video DJ every Friday and Saturday night and one of the busiest dance floors in Miami County. There is a small cover charge after 9 p.m. and nobody under age 21 is permitted.

Family Day at the Air Force Museum DAYTON - Along with free admission for the museum and possibly a small fee for an IMAX film, the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force will host Family Day: Robots Among Us. The focus on the event is Mars and children will get to see aerospace demonstration stations. The event takes place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Saturday, February 18

The official No.1 Jimmy Buffett tribute band
will help warm up those winter blues while
raising money for Grand Lake St. Marys
during this weekend's Beach Party.

Beach Party at Romer's in Celina
CELINA - Starting at 6 p.m. Saturday, Romer's, 1101 W. Bank Road in Celina will host a Beach Party with live music by Top Shelf at 7 p.m. and Parrots of the Caribbean at 9 p.m. The event is being held to "shake off the winter chills with a night of dancing, drinks and laughter with the nation's premier Jimmy Buffett tribute band, Parrots of the Caribbean". The cost of the event is $15 per person and there is a cash bar. Proceeds go to the Lake Improvement Association. Along with the above fun, there will be door prizes, raffles, a 50/50, silent auctions and more, and prizes for best dressed and best T-shirt contest will win prizes. So dress like a pirate, a parrot, or whatever sea-faring island theme you'd like and compete for cash prizes. In an effort to keep safe, Romer's is offering a special one-night only rate of $75 for 2 and 3-bedroom villas. Click HERE for details or call (419) 584-0606. Tickets to this event can be purchased at www.romerscatering.com or at Duckfoot's Bar & Grill, Sunnyside Inn and the Celina Moose. For a preview of the band, click HERE.

Higgins-Madewell will perform their first
concert at the new Voodoo Music Hall
at LeDoux's, 118 Main St. in Troy.

Higgins-Madewell at LeDoux's Voodoo Music Hall

TROY - The most popular band in the Miami Valley, according to recent polls, Higgins-Madewell, will perform at 9 p.m. Saturday at LeDoux's Voodoo Music Hall at 118 W. Main St. in downtown Troy. There is no cover charge.

Public Skating at Hobart Arena

TROY – Public skating will be open at Hobart Arena in Troy from 2-4 p.m. today (Saturday) and 8-10 p.m. tonight and from 2-4 p.m. tomorrow (Sunday). The cost is $5 for adults and $4 for youths 14 and younger. Skate rental is $2.50.

Here's just one small table of fun Halloween items
found on an entire floor of Halloween at the Apple
Tree Gallery in downtown Piqua. If you're already
itching for Halloween, stop on in to cheer yourself up.

Visit the Largest Collection of Halloween Merchandise in Piqua
PIQUA - Halloween, like Christmas, is the sort of holiday you can be reminded of during the funniest times, such as in February or April. The Apple Tree Gallery in Piqua has an entire floor of Halloween items that can get you through these short term crises. The store also has year-round Christmas and, simply put, it's just a fun place to shop. Other popular items include wine toppers that glow and twinkle and rare antiques. The Apple Tree Gallery is located at 405 N. Main St. in downtown Piqua and is near many other consignment and antique and collectible stores. The shop is open 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday and 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. For more information, click HERE.

Project Linus Make a Blanket Day Event & Collection Site (Ginghamsburg Church)
TIPP CITY - At 10 a.m. Saturday at the Ginghamsburg Church Discipleship Center, 7695 S. County Road 25-A in Tipp City, the public is invited to make blankets for children in need. Blanket makers of all kinds are welcome, including beginners. This is a way to learn a trade while helping out the less fortunate. Some pre-cut kits will be available, as well as a limited number of extra sewing machines. Irons/boards and rotary cutting mats will be available for use too. The event is open to teenagers and older. For more information, email quiltingbonnie@gmail.com.

Diddley Band at Oscar's Bar & Grill
VANDALIA - Diddley, a group that continues to grow in popularity in the Miami Valley, will perform at 9 p.m. tonight at Oscar's, 320 N. Dixie Dr. in Vandalia.

RWVA Appleseed Rifle Marksmanship & Heritage Clinic in Piqua

Learn Better Marksmanship
PIQUA - Starting at 8:30 a.m. Saturday morning at the Piqua Fish & Game Club, 9344 N. Spiker Road in Piqua, the RWVA Appleseed Rifle Marksmanship & Heritage Clinic will take place. Range Fees for this event are $10 per event and includes a number of areas to learn. All participants should be prepared for the event by researching HERE.

Learn the Basics of 19th Century Meat Preservation
HUBER HEIGHTS - For $20 per person, area residents can learn the basics of 19th century meat preservation. The class will take place at Carriage Hill MetroPark & Farm from 1-3 p.m. Saturday and registration is required by calling (937) 278-2609. Participants will learn the basics of 19th century meat preservation techniques, such as salting and curing pork, and the cold smoking process. Lastly, try your hand at making sausage. For the $20, the meat is provided. Carriage Hill is located directly off of State Route 201 on the north side of Huber Heights at 7850 E. Shull Road. For details, click HERE.

Dayglow: World's Largest Paint Party at Wright State

A cross between your friend's house painting party
and a wild rave, the Dayglow: World's Largest Paint
Party will take place at the Nutter Center this Saturday.

Dayton Gems Versus Bloomington Blaze

DAYTON - The Dayton Gems will face off against the Bloomington Blaze at 7 p.m. tonight at Hara Arena in Dayton. Tickets range in price from $9-$13 and the first 500 in attendance always get something fun to take home with them. For tickets or additional information, click HERE.

Cat Show at Montgomery County Fairgrounds
DAYTON - The Kittyhawk Felines Annual CFA Cat Show will open at 9 a.m. at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds, 1043 S. Main St. in Dayton, just off of Interstate 75 near the 35 interchange. The cost is $5 for adults; $3 for children 6-12; $4 for seniors; and free for children five and under. The show features 100s of beautiful cats of different breeds. There will be vendors for cats and other cat-themed booths at the event. For details, call (937) 224-1619.

10th Annual TechFest 2012

DAYTON - TechFest is free family fun with science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) and it takes place starting at 10 a.m. Saturday at Sinclair Community College in downtown Dayton. The program features hands-on interactive exhibits demonstrated by practicing scientists and engineers. Topics cover a wide range from life sciences to aviation, weather, and environment. Youth (k-12) and their parents can ask questions. Also, stage demonstrations and presentations on STEM topics, such as remote piloted vehicles, science of music, chemistry, and more "info-tainment."

For details on the group, click HERE. The event is free and there is free parking at the school.

"Dayton's Cosmic Americana Band" in Oregon District DAYTON - The Elderly Brothers: Dayton's Cosmic Americana Band, will perform at the Oregon Express, 336 E. Fifth St. in the Oregon District Dayton at 9:30 p.m.

Intro to the Glen Hike

YELLOW SPRINGS - Glen Helen Ranger Susan Smith will be the tour guide for a whirlwind introduction to the history, program, and people of Glen Helen during a family hike at 1 p.m. with participants meeting at the Glen Helen Building, 405 Corry St. This two-hour hike visits the Nature Shop, the Auditorium, the Raptor Center, Trailside Museum and all the natural landmarks in between. The hike departs from the Corry Street parking lot at 1 p.m. For details, call (937) 769-1902.

New Bremen brings in some of the
greatest acts in showbiz, including
Circo Comedia this Saturday.

Sunday, February 19

Circo Comedia
NEW BREMEN - At 4 p.m. Sunday at the James F. Dicke Auditorium at the New Bremen High School, Circo Comedia will take place. The show is action-packed with stunts and acrobats by a professional team. It's very impressive and an amazing experience that only New Bremen can afford to bring to such a small town. Tickets are $20 for adults and $12 for students and can be purchased at the Box Office at Western Ohio True Value in Minster or by calling (419) 733-0252.

Sunday Afternoon at the Museum Series Explores the Paranormal
VERSAILLES - At 2 p.m. Sunday at the Museum at Versailles, 552 S. West St. in Versailles, local Darke County author, Rita Arnold will share the paranormal activities around the county during the "Sunday Afternoon at the Museum" series at The Versailles Area Museum. Joining Rita will be several members of the Darke County Center for the Arts “story tellers” from their noted annual “Ghost Walk” in Greenville each October. They will share stories in the first person about some interesting characters of Darke County (Could they be some of your relatives)? Come to the museum and bring your local tales to tell! Also several displays will be available to view as work continues on the facility. This event is free and open to the public. For details, call J.R. Kelch at (937) 526-4222.

Hot Wheels Show
DAYTON - The Hot Wheels Show returns to Hara's East Hall on Sunday, February 19 with over 100 displays of Hot Wheels, Matchbox and Johnny Lightning collectibles. Show hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults, kids under 12 are free. For more information, or to reserve a table, call John Hodges at (937) 276-5246.

Sunday Brunch at The Caroline
TROY - The Caroline hosts Sunday Brunch this Sunday and every week after from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The massive brunch is $13.95 for children and $5.95 for children under 12 and free for those 5 and under. For $3 off this Sunday Brunch, click HERE. For more information, call (937) 552-7676.

Open Mic Comedy at Wiley's Comedy Club in Dayton
DAYTON - If you want to do something, there's no reason you shouldn't try, including trying to be a comedian. Every Sunday night starting at 8 p.m., Wiley's Comedy Club in Dayton hosts Open Mic Comedy Night. Participants must secure stage time by e-mailing Joanne Viskup at joanneviskup@hotmail. Admission is $7 and the public is welcome to come in to watch, dine on great nachos and beer and possibly even get a surprise visit by a famous local comedian. Wiley's is located at 101 Pine St. in the Oregon District. For more information, call (937) 224-JOKE.