Stop and smell the flowers, but don’t let them distract you

By Maha Kashani

Photo: Having Fun with Recycling at Green Fest in 2012

Maha’s milestone and more in April

March 2013 – The Best Month Ever

If you missed out on the fun in February, don’t sweat it. Not only does March bring the Iranian New Year – Nowroz, aka the first day of spring – but also a ton of excitement for all Daytonians to experience! I’d even venture to call it “The Best Month Ever!” Well, with the exception of turning 30 on March 31  … But, I guess you’d call that a personal problem? EEK!

Did you know? 

The Benjamin and Marion Schuster Performing Arts Center celebrates its 10-year anniversary on March 1st! If you have never been to the Schuster, then you have yet to experience one of the most amazing assets that downtown Dayton has to offer. At the heart, there is the stunning Mead Theatre, a 2,300 seat state-of-the-art facility that pays homage to Dayton’s aviation history featuring a striking Starfield as an exact replica of the star pattern the Wright Brother’s saw the night before their first flight. Plus, the width of the Starfield is that of the Wright Flyer’s wingspan and the theatre’s height is the exact distance of the Wright’s first successful flight. Pretty cool, huh? There is also the Mathile Theatre for intimate performances and the dazzling Kettering Wintergarden, a six-story glass atrium, used for special events. The Schuster truly makes downtown shine! Check out their Open House on March 2 from 1-6 p.m. for children’s activities, information about upcoming performances, special tours and more. Can’t make the open house? Celebrate the 10-year anniversary all year long with many other special events and discounts found at schustercenter.org/schuster-anniversary. 

Miss Maha’s “Best Bets” to…

Explore the City:

Dayton Knockout – Saturday, March 2 at 6:30 p.m. at Memorial Hall, 125 E. First St.

I am happy to announce that you won’t find me in the ring this year for the VIP Fight Night boxing match! I had a blast training last year, but fighting my best friend with over a thousand people watching is something I never want to do again. That being said, everyone who attended told me it was one of their most exciting nights in Dayton. This re-creation of a “Fight Night,” just as Memorial Hall used to host back in the roaring ‘20s, will be a special treat! Doors open at 6:30 p.m., Bouts start at 8 p.m. KnockoutDayton.com Cost: $15 in advance, $20 at the door.

Experience Arts & Culture:

ENCORE at the Phil: Russian Masters – Friday, March 15, 5:30 p.m. at the Dayton Racquet Club, 40 N. Main St., and the Schuster Center, 2 W. Second St.

What is it about Russian classical music that is so powerful and intriguing? Join ENCORE young professionals as we find out during this exclusive opportunity to celebrate Dayton’s rich cultural arts heritage at Russian Masters. We kick off the evening at the Dayton Racquet Club’s 29 Stories lounge for drinks, complimentary appetizers and fun door prizes, then head to the Schuster Center for a VIP backstage tour and on-stage photo opportunity, after which we will be ushered to our premium “A” tier seats to enjoy the show. Works by Glinka, Shostakovich and Rachmaninoff, plus a riveting solo by DPO Concertmaster Jessica Hung, will make this hot-blooded musical event one to remember. To learn more or purchase your discount tickets, visit DaytonPerformingArts.org/encore/russianmasters. Cost: $20/ticket ENCORE promo code: Jessica

Commemorate Dayton’s History:

“The Great 1913 Flood Exhibit” – beginning Saturday, March 23 at Carillon Park, 1000 Carillon Blvd.

March 25 marks the 100-year anniversary of the Great Dayton Flood of 1913. Still holding the record as Ohio’s worst natural disaster in history. The Great Flood destroyed our city, then brought citizens together to redefine who we were and secure our future. Visit Carillon Park for this new exhibit to commemorate the catastrophe that washed most of downtown Dayton away and the innovation still in place keeping us safe today. Also, make sure to pick up the March 19 edition of the Dayton City Paper for the special 1913 Flood insert. It’s guaranteed to be a collector’s item. daytonhistory.org

Miss Maha’s “Can’t miss it” pick of the month

So much to do, never enough space to write about it all! To learn about more ways to stay entertained, make sure to “like” me on Facebook: Facebook.com/MMATC and “follow” me on Twitter: @MissMaha. Cheers, my friends!

Reach DCP freelance writer Maha Kashani at MissMaha@daytoncitypaper.com

Stay warm and keep cool

Kick off 2013 by getting out around Dayton

Great ways to enjoy Dayton in December

By Maha Kashani

With the holidays upon us and everyone being pulled in every which direction, I’ve decided to put a new spin on the year-end edition of my column. Welcome to the inaugural “list” edition of Miss Maha and the City.

2013 is almost here! Before that ball drops, make sure you check out some of these fun options to explore “the City”.

Miss Maha’s “Best Bets” to…..

Enjoy Brunch:

One of the most anticipated activities of my weekend! Here are some fantastic options for you to enjoy this perfect tango between two of the day’s best meals:

Olive, an Urban Dive – Saturdays, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.  If you’ve never had brunch at Olive, I can’t even begin to explain what you’re missing. From their locally-sourced daily strata to breakfast scramble to specials like pumpkin french toast casserole, Olive is a foodie’s dream come true! This is a BYOB establishment, so grab your favorite bottle of bubbly or bring some “zing” for a relaxing way to start your Saturday. olivedive.com

Lucky’s Taproom – Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.  Love omelets and Bloody Marys? Then Lucky’s is your spot! With a “build your own omelet” menu featuring over 30 toppings to choose from and a “build your own Bloody Mary” bar full of fixins, it feels like I’m in heaven every time I’m there! Not into omelets? Check out the delicious breakfast tacos or the daily special featuring options like butter rum pancakes. Yum! luckystaproom.com

Butter Cafe – Saturdays & Sundays from 7 a.m.- 3 p.m. For you early birds, Butter Cafe is ready and waiting to serve up mouthwatering options such as jelly donut pancakes or chai tea french toast at the crack of dawn! Using only the freshest organic and free-range ingredients, Butter is a choice you’ll never regret. Make sure to save room for one of their house-made desserts that change daily! buttercafe.com

Burn off Calories:

Go ahead! Treat yourself to seconds, or thirds … then pencil in one of these activities to help burn off those extra calories:

Ice Skating at Riverscape MetroPark – Every year, the ice rink at Riverscape sets the perfect winter wonderland scene in downtown Dayton for all to enjoy. No charge for ice time on weekdays, and only $7 (including skate rentals) on weekends. Checkout the calendar of activities such as lessons, themed skate nights, curling classes and more at metroparks.org.

Urban Krag Climbing Center – “The Krag,” located in the Oregon District, is one of the coolest places in the city. This former church features over 8,000 square feet of textured and sculpted vertical terrain with heights up to 56 ft., as well as an inclined bouldering wall. It’s the perfect venue to live fit and have fun whether you are a beginner or advanced climber. urbankrag.com

Practice Yoga on 5th – Have you heard of the “hot yoga” craze? In addition to traditional yoga classes, Practice on 5th turns up the heat (literally) for intense, yet accessible, yoga sessions such as Power Vinyasa and Slow Flow/Deep Release. These classes are suitable for all levels and guaranteed to make you sweat. practiceyogadayton.com

Drake’s Downtown Gym – This old school boxing gym located at 4th & Jefferson is quite the experience. At first I was intimidated, but quickly fell in love with Drake’s fun and inviting environment of circuit training, cardio and boxing for all skill levels. Gloves and wraps are available, but I recommend purchasing your own. jabcityboxing.biz

Buy Local:

Almost 70 cents of every dollar spent at a local business stays in the community, compared with only 43 cents when you shop at national/big box stores. Shop local to help support our economy and invest in our community:

American Pi – Located at the Shops at St. Clair Lofts, American π is a unique boutique specializing in gifts and accessories all made in America. Featuring products like handbags, greeting cards, candles, personal care and food items, this the perfect stop to find quality, distinct gifts this holiday season. americanpidayton.com

Sew Dayton – Downtown’s newest addition offers fun and high quality custom purses, clutches, dresses and skirts with vintage and retro flair. These handmade items make the perfect gift. Plus, being located inside Mike Elsass’ Color of Energy gallery with Amore Designer Consignment Boutique is a special treat for all visitors. sewdayton.com

Beaute Box – This eclectic, Paris chic, pampering boutique located on Fifth Street is the perfect escape from all the holiday madness. Whether you need a shellac manicure, relaxing massage or rejuvenating facial, Beaute Box has got you covered. beautebox.wix.com/beautebox

Peace on Fifth – This remarkable gift shop has a deep purpose: end human trafficking. Specializing in free trade products that use no slave labor, Peace on Fifth’s passion to bring modern-day slavery to an end is inspirational. You’ll find unique items that you can feel great about purchasing. peaceonfifth.com

Miss Maha’s “Can’t Miss It” pick of the month:

2012 Santa Pub Crawl, Saturday Dec. 8 in the Oregon District

December is stressful, so take advantage of this opportunity to meet new friends and blow off some much needed steam. This spirited tour of the Oregon District kicks off at Dublin Pub from 5:30-7 p.m., followed by Trolley Stop 7-8 p.m., Tumbleweed 8-9 p.m, Blind Bobs 9-10 p.m., Oregon Express 10-11 p.m., Ned Peppers 11p.m.-midnight, before arriving at the final destination – Pulse NiteClub. Bonus: No cover charge if you dress up as your favorite holiday character! I promise this will be an amazing night to remember. Cost: Bring a $10 unwrapped gift for Toys for Tots.

So much to do! What to learn more? “Like” me on Facebook (www.facebook.com/MMATC) and “Follow” me on Twitter (@MissMaha). Warmest wishes for a fabulous holiday season. Cheers!

Reach DCP freelance writer Maha Kashani at MissMaha@daytoncitypaper.com

Lots to do in Dayton in November

By Maha Kashani

Can you believe the holidays are upon us? 2012 has delivered some fantastic memories of the last year of my 20s, and favorite new hashtag to commemorate the official countdown to turning 30 (Approximately 151 more days … but, who’s counting?) is #YOLO – You Only Live Once. So much power in those four little words!

October brought lots of excitement, especially with my favorite celebration of the year … Halloween!  Masquerage did not disappoint, Dayton Music Fest was a huge success and boy, have I enjoyed those quadruple shot soy lattes in a variety of fantastic flavors from Ghostlight Coffee. Maybe even a little too much … but, hey – #YOLO!

As we move into the madness of the holidays, check out some of these fun ways to stay entertained.

Did you know? The Dayton Ballet, Opera and Philharmonic Orchestra have merged! Dayton is trailblazing, again. This time it’s with the newly formed Dayton Performing Arts Alliance. Garnering national attention, this exciting and innovative merger has moved Dayton’s cultural arts scene to front-and-center on the national stage. With exciting collaborations and new ticket packages spanning across each art form, you’ll want to make sure you check out a few performances this year. If you’ve never been to a show, then keep your eyes peeled for ENCORE! Evenings featuring discount tickets and cool perks like backstage tours for Young Professionals. www.daytonPerformingarts.org

Miss Maha’s “Best Bets” to…

Be entertained:

The Show Must Go On – Saturday, Nov. 24 8 p.m. IUE-CWA Union Hall in downtown Dayton

Glitter, wigs, sequin, lights, camera and ACTION! The Rubi Girls – Dayton’s sensational drag queen troupe – are back for their famous Thanksgiving weekend performance. This dynamic group of professional men from around the region has traveled from coast to coast raising more than $300,000 for AIDS-related causes with their high energy, comedic performances. Let me tell you, these fabulous ladies do not disappoint. This special fundraiser for ARC Ohio is guaranteed to be an exciting way to celebrate your Thanksgiving weekend.   Cost: General Admission $10, VIP $50 (includes open bar) www.ARCOhio.org

Pay homage to the “King of Pop”:

“The Music of Michael Jackson” – Saturday, Nov. 17 8 p.m. Schuster Performing Arts Center, 1 W. Second St.

Hee-hee oooWW! The Dayton Philharmonic outdoes themselves again with their season opening Rockin’ Orchestra performance, “The Music of Michael Jackson.” The audience will take an unforgettable trip back in time while paying homage to the “King of Pop” and his amazing 40-year career. Featuring hits from the Jackson 5 to Thriller to his recently released movie “This Is It!” guests will experience the legend like never before, right here in Dayton. With our phenomenal orchestra accompanying famous jams like “Man in the Mirror,” “Earth Song,” “Ben,” “Beat It” and more, this will be a show that you absolutely do not want to miss. COST: Tickets starting at $27 www.DaytonPhilharmonic.com

Get in the holiday spirit:

Santa Arrival Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony – Saturday, Nov. 17 5 p.m. The Greene

Want an early start on getting into the holiday spirit? Then check out the 7th annual Santa Parade and Tree Lighting at the Greene. This fun event is one that my little sister personally loves to attend, especially for all the great photo opportunities. Kicking off the evening is the Beavercreek High School Marching Band, followed by a special performance by one of my favorite groups in town, Muse Machine. The tree lighting takes place around 6:45 p.m.  COST: FREE! www.thegreene.com

Dayton Holiday Festival Parade and “Grande Illumination” – Friday, Nov. 23 starting at 8 p.m Courthouse Square in downtown Dayton

This year marks the 40th Anniversary of the famous Dayton Holiday Festival, originally started by legendary Philanthropist Virginia Kettering. Thousands will gather downtown to experience one of Ohio’s largest tree lighting ceremonies known as the “Grande Illumination” featuring more than 100,000 lights that dazzle the night, followed by the family-friendly Dayton Holiday Festival Parade. Can’t make it on Nov. 23? Don’t worry, throughout the month of December you can experience Tike’s Shop and Wintergarden Wonderland Windows at the Schuster Center, a family movie series, pizza with Santa, a gorgeous holiday train display, noontime entertainment in downtown’s office buildings and much more in downtown Dayton. Cost: FREE! www.downtowndayton.org

Miss Maha’s “Can’t Miss It” Pick of the Month…

Chemistry + Cocktails – Friday, Nov. 16 7 p.m at the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, 2600 Deweese Pkwy.

In my humble opinion, the Boonshoft is one of the best-kept secrets in Dayton. With exhibits ranging from an indoor Zoo to a Planetarium and even an Astronomical Observatory, Cocktails + Chemistry offers Young Professionals an exciting opportunity to experience everything the museum has to offer. Guests are invited to celebrate science in style featuring food, music and signature drinks, plus interactive technology showcases as part of Dayton’s Regional STEM Festival. This one-of-a-kind experience is guaranteed to be an evening to remember. Cost: $20, includes admission, food and one drink voucher. Cash bar available. www.boonshoftmuseum.org

Want to learn more about fun and unique ways to stay entertained? Then please “like” me on Facebook www.Facebook.com/MMATC and “follow” me on Twitter @MissMaha and I will keep you in the know. Remember, #YOLO! Cheers, my friends.

Reach DCP freelance writer Maha Kashani at MissMaha@daytoncitypaper.com

Scene75, Downtown Dayton Revival and more

By Maha Kashani

Wait, summer is almost over… already? I can’t believe how quick that went by!  Even though we were lucky enough to skip spring and jump right into 80-degree weather starting in March this year, I can still never get enough summertime…

Some say Labor Day is the official/unofficial end of summer. I say, “Let the good times roll in September with these fun ways to stay entertained.”

Did you know? Dayton is officially home to the largest indoor entertainment center in the nation! Scene75 opened its doors this summer offering fun loving Daytonians a special entertainment experience right in our backyard. In addition to a 150-seat restaurant named “Radar’s,” the facility features two bars, Ohio’s longest go-kart tracks, bumper cars, black-light mini-golf, mini-bowling, an arcade, 4-D theatre, laser tag, sand volleyball courts, bocce ball courts, large outdoor patio and more. It is truly fun for all ages facility, although it becomes 21 and up on Friday and Saturday nights. This exciting new addition to our community is something you must check out!  www.Scene75.com

Miss Maha’s “Best Bets” to…

Explore Downtown Dayton:

Urban Nights Friday, Sept. 14 all around downtown Dayton

Don’t make it to the city often? Then Urban Nights is your best bet to experience what downtown Dayton is all about. Over 100 venues will be set up around town offering a taste of the unique arts, dining, shopping, music, housing and interactive experiences that our urban core has to offer. I recommend joining the crowd at Courthouse Square to cheer on the Over The Edge rappellers descending down the 27-story KeyBank Tower as a fundraiser for Big Brothers Big Sisters. After living vicariously through those daredevils, make your way to RiverScape for Taste of the Miami Valley and enjoy some delicious local restaurant samples. Once you’ve sampled your heart out, head to the Oregon District or Wright Dunbar District for dinner and a cold one with good friends. Remember to take your time and enjoy all the great entertainment along the way.

Cost: FREE! Visit www.DowntownDayton.org and download your interactive map to ensure you don’t miss out on all the fun.

Enjoy a Fall Festival

OktoberFest, Sept. 21-23 at the Dayton Art Institute

Quite possibly my favorite festival in Dayton, the 41st anniversary of Dayton’s Oktoberfest is guaranteed to be a great time. As if the extensive beer and wine selection weren’t enough, Oktoberfest offers so much more. Grab your friends and family and head to the Dayton Art Institute for live entertainment, delicious eats from around the world, local/regional/international artisans displaying beautiful works, a homebrewing contest and even children’s activities. What about football, you ask? Catch all the action on the four big-screen TVs in the craft beer tent. If you’ve got the cash, I recommend checking out Friday night’s Preview Party featuring unlimited beer and wine. Have Lederhosen? Feel free to dress to theme and don’t forget to pick up one of the famous souvenir mugs on your way out.

COST: Friday’s Preview Party $60 pre-sale, $80 at the door and General Admission $5 pre-sale, $7 at the door. www.DaytonArtInstitute.com

Experience the Arts

Encore at the Phil, Saturday, Sept. 29 starting at 5:30 p.m. at The Wine Gallery.

Encore is back! Yours truly, along with my co-host Lauren Hamer, are excited to introduce young professionals to Dayton’s world-class performing arts in a unique way with the second season of the Encore program. Help us kick off this season with the stunning Cirque Musica! Our special Encore evening will begin at The Wine Gallery on Monument for beverages and light appetizers before heading to the Schuster Center for a VIP backstage tour. Once the tour ends, we will be escorted to our seats for a journey of dazzling beauty blending with the thrills of the world’s greatest circus performers, all accompanied by our sensational Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra. This full sensory experience, featuring music from Tchaikovsky to the Beatles, will leave you in awe. Guaranteed to be an evening you’ll never forget! COST: $25 www.DaytonPhilharmonic.com/encore

Miss Maha’s “Can’t Miss it” pick of the month

Downtown Dayton Revival Music Festival Sept. 8-9

Without a doubt, the most anticipated event of the year is the Downtown Dayton Revival. Think Lollapalooza, on a smaller scale, along the river in downtown Dayton. An estimated 40,000 people will flock to the city for this two-day music celebration featuring a spectacular lineup, including headliners Train and Grammy Award-winner John Legend, as well as hometown favorites like The Ohio Players, Guided by Voices and many more. 37 bands. 3 stages. 2 days. Don’t miss it! COST: $75 for a weekend pass. www.downtownrevival.com

This is just a snapshot of all the fun things happening in our community this month. To learn more about local events and exciting news impacting our region, make sure to “like” me on Facebook: www.Facebook.com/MMATC and “follow” me on Twitter: @MissMaha. Ciao!

Reach DCP freelance writer Maha Kashani at MissMaha@daytoncitypaper.com

GermanFest Picnic, FilmDayton Festival and more August events

By Maha Kashani

Summer is in full swing and, personally, I’m having the time of my life! July was full of amazing food, fun and adventure with the chance to hang loose during Call of the Tropics, to try Ride the River kayak rentals, to be electrified during Cirque in Yellow Springs, and to celebrate all things Irish.  All that, in addition to the inaugural Dayton Fashion Week being a huge success, summed up a fantastic month for yours truly.

July was a blast, but I think August might take the cake! Let’s see what Dayton has in store for us…

Did you know? The RiverScape River Run Project is putting a full court press on their fundraising efforts to remove the low dam in the Great Miami River and make this the “Last Dam Summer” in Dayton. The low dam has stood in the way of kayakers and water enthusiasts for years, but once the dam is removed, Daytonians can begin reaping a long list of benefits.  What does this mean? A seven-mile stretch will be opened up from Eastwood MetroPark to Carillon Park, giving everyone an opportunity to “get out and get in” the river. Removing the dam means we will have a safer river, improved water quality and aquatic habitat, creating a dynamic downtown scene for residents, businesses and visitors. Plus, people can enjoy a new regional recreation destination. With $3.8 million already raised, the River Run is almost fully funded. Help push this project over the edge by showing your support and making a donation at www.downtowndayton.org.

Explore the City

Tour de Dayton Saturday, August 4. Starts at Burns-Jackson Park, 410 Buckeye Street.

Dayton loves cycling and with a dedicated bicycle hub at Riverscape, dedicated bicycle lanes around the city and hundreds of miles of bike paths around the region, it’s no wonder we are such an enthusiastic cycling community. This free 10-mile cycling tour around the city is a great way to explore local businesses as well as cultural, historical and recreational destinations around town. This year’s cycling tour route begins at Burns-Jackson Park and will take riders on a tour of the following neighborhoods: Oregon, Downtown, Great Miami & Mad River Trails, North Springfield/Findley St., St. Anne’s Hill, Webster Station, Twin Towers & South Park. It will also include cool points of interest like Urban Krag, 2nd Street Market, David Clay Studio, Ghost Light Coffee, High Street Gallery and more. Don’t have a bike? That’s OK. Several free rentals will be on hand. For more information visit www.TourdeDayton.com Cost: FREE

Get a Dose of Culture

GermanFest Picnic August 10-12 at Carillon Park

African-American Cultural Festival August 25-26 at RiverScape MetroPark

This year, the Dayton Liederkranz-Turner celebrates the 28th Annual GermanFest Picnic at Carillon Park with attractions that include live music, authentic German food, genealogy support, Belgian beer tastings, a Bavarian Fashion show, a 5K race/walk and a heritage booth featuring a toast to breweries in Dayton. Later this month, check out the Dayton African-American Cultural Festival at Riverscape MetroPark. This two-day, city-wide family event brings the richness of the African-American experience to the Dayton and surrounding communities in the areas of arts, culture, education and live music. Check them both out to get a double dose of culture this month. For more information visit www.daytongermanclub.org/picnic.php or www.daacf.com. Cost: FREE!

Catch a Cool Flick

FilmDayton Festival August 24-26 at the Neon Movie Theatre, 130 E. Fifth St.

Dayton’s local film community moves front-and-center into the spotlight this month with the 4th Annual FilmDayton Festival. Many people don’t realize that Dayton has a rapidly growing film community. Even Tom Hanks took notice, praising the award-winning Wright State University filmmakers and students on multiple occasions. With special events, workshops and a spectacular line-up of locally-connected films, this annual film festival promises to be a great weekend for both filmmakers and film-lovers across the Miami Valley.

Miss Maha’s “Can’t Miss It” Pick of the Month

AleFest Dayton Saturday, August 25 at Carillon Historical Park

This much-anticipated celebration of ale serves as the official headlining event for Dayton Beer Week. The 14th annual AleFest will showcase the finest styles of craft beer in the world in an educational, responsible and enjoyable fashion. This year’s festival features over 350 craft beers from more than 150 world-class breweries, a special Gluten-Free Beer Zone, expanded draught/cask ale/lagers selection, educational seminars, “Fresh Fare” samplings of cheeses, breads, tapenades and olives, a silent auction full of beer memorabilia, and grand raffle prize for a weekend trip for two to the Yuengling Brewery. Wow, that’s a lot! Admission includes 20 samples, a commemorative glass, live entertainment and entry into the raffle. For more information visit www.alefest.com. Cost: $35 in advance, $40 at the door.

Can’t get enough? Me either! Unfortunately, my word count limits me from telling you about all the other great events happening in town this month. To learn about more ways to stay entertained, make sure to “like” me on Facebook www.Facebook.com/MMATC and “follow” me on Twitter @MissMaha.

Reach DCP freelance writer Maha Kashani at MissMaha@daytoncitypaper.com,

Fashion week, Ride the  RIver, and more summer events

By Maha Kashani

As we move into the second half of 2012, I am reminded once again that the older I get, the faster time flies! The first half of the year was great, especially with 80 degree weather in March, but I have a sneaking suspicion that the second half will be even better!

In addition to celebrating our Independence from Great Britain on July 4th, there are a lot of unique and exciting ways to stay entertained in July. Check it out!

Did you know? Dayton Fashion Week is almost here! The mission of this uber-exciting inaugural event, titled “The Rise of Fashion,” is to bridge the gap between national and international designers, premier retailers and prestige fashion media. Dayton has already gained global exposure as a result and is expected to attract thousands downtown for New York-style runway shows complete with VIP seating, fashion workshops and credentialed media access, as well as upscale promotional and after-parties. The economic impact is projected to be huge! Make sure you come downtown to support this exciting new experience from July 24-28, 2012.  www.DaytonFashionWeek.com

Miss Maha’s “Best Bets” to…

-  Explore Downtown Dayton:

Ride the River Rentals Saturdays and Sundays until Labor Day at Riverscape MetroPark

Whether you prefer being on land or water, Five Rivers MetroParks has you covered with bikes, rollerblades and kayaks available to rent this summer. Featuring a variety of bicycles with a host of child-attachment options to individual and tandem kayaks, Riverscape MetroPark is a premier destination for fun in the sun. Note: kayak rentals only available on Saturdays. www.MetroParks.org Cost: Beginning at $3

-  Enjoy a Summer Festival:

Celtic Fest July 27th through 29th at Riverscape Metropark in downtown Dayton

The 11th Annual United Irish of Dayton Celtic Festival is one of the most anticipated summer festivals in town. Festival-goers will have the unique opportunity to experience the sounds, sights and tastes of Celtic Ireland, Scotland and Wales right along the river in downtown Dayton. With three different stages featuring regional and local entertainers, workshops, souvenir vendors, theatre productions, family activities, a 5K Run/Walk, Celtic eats and a whole lot of Guinness, how can you go wrong?

www.unitedirishofdayton.org/Festival Cost: FREE!

- Support a Great Cause:

“Fashion for a Cause” Tuesday July 24th at the Dayton Masonic Center

Dayton’s brightest local celebrities come together for the official kick-off to Dayton Fashion Week and showcase their personal senses of fashion and style for this special “Fashion for a Cause” Celebrity Fashion Show to benefit Hospice of Dayton and Clothes that Work. Presented by the Dayton City Paper, chaired by yours truly and hosted by Zuri Hall of Living Dayton, we have a very special evening planned. In addition to meeting the DFW Designers and a fantastic silent auction, our line-up of models includes County Commissioners Deb Lieberman & Judy Dodge; Luke Notestine, Sports Anchor at Fox 45/ABC 22; Allen Elijah, President and CEO of the United Way; Joyce Reives, Vice President of DP&L Energy and Miami County elected official; Katt Saliba, Dancing with Dayton’s Stars 5-time champion, and many more local favorites! DaytonFashionWeek.com Cost: $50

Catch:

Cirque Carnival July 20th through 22nd in downtown Yellow Springs

Yellow Springs, our beautiful haven northeast of the city, brings us many exciting and eclectic events all year long. Cirque Carnival, a three-day celebration of the whimsical, colorful and electrifying, is one of these many events that make Yellow Springs one of the coolest places to play. Highlights of this year’s carnival include aerial and fire feats by CincinnatiCircus.com & Soul Fire Tribe, performances from the YS Kids Playhouse, entertaining workshops from local artisans, the Kids Side Show play area, Zoot Theatre’s giant roaming puppets and a vibrant music & arts festival. Attendees are encouraged to put on your costumes and be ready to have some major fun! www.YellowSpringsOhio.org Cost: FREE!

Miss Maha’s “Can’t Miss it” pick of the month:

Call of the Tropics July 6th through 21st at the Color of Energy Gallery in the Oregon Arts District

This inaugural festival celebrating Tiki Art, music and mid-century culture is one that I am personally very excited about. Since spending time with the Māori people of New Zealand, I have been fascinated with Polynesian culture. This exciting event kicks off as a block party on First Friday (July 6th) in downtown Dayton’s Oregon Arts District with surf and rockabilly bands, Tiki Carvers, Street Performers, fire dancers, a hot rod display and more! http://fraternalorderofmoai.org/callofthetropics Cost: FREE!

To keep up to date on more local events and exciting news impacting our region, you can “like” me on Facebook: facebook.com/MMATC and “follow” me on Twitter: @MissMaha. Make it a great day!

Reach DCP freelance writer Maha Kashani at MissMaha@daytoncitypaper.com