Thankful

There's a lot going on in and around Dayton this weekend, not to mention Thanksgiving, and we're excited and yes, thankful, for every bit of it.

Our friend, the "Charming Miss" (from my previous post) was back in the Oregon District on Tuesday. This time she was visiting the district in street clothes, but her enthusiasm is boundless. Even as a regular person, 'off-duty' as it were, I saw her entertaining a man-in-the-street with an amazing bit of mime. I've had some small experience with stagecraft and showmanship so I understand the feeling. When one enjoys performing the show never really ends. I know for a fact that, if I were a part of something as incredible as Cirque du Soleil, I too would be constantly bubbling with enthusiasm for the organization.

Cirque du Soleil will present their show, "Saltimbanco", in the Ervin J. Nutter Center at Wright State University on Wednesday the 21st with more shows scheduled Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

If the greatest acrobatic performers in the world aren't your thing, how about 'The Greatest Show on Earth?" Also in town this weekend is Ringling Bros. Barnum & Bailey Circus at Hara Arena.

Have time for a bit more? How about heading downtown to take in the Abba based musical, "Mamma Mia" at the Schuster Center? And/or catch one of the outstanding films currently playing at The Neon Movies!

The Grande Illumination takes place Friday night on Courthouse Square, with the tree lighting at 8:05 pm. Also, the Dayton Children's Parade welcomes Santa Claus to town on Sunday beginning at 2:00 pm!

Oh, you probably won't have time for any of that because you want to get some shopping done. But wait! The best gifts often come from the most unexpected places. Have you taken a good look around the amazing shops in the Oregon District?

Our store for instance... Bonnett's Book Store, has books for all interests. Books make a lasting impression and are great gifts. A few funny comics (Mickey Mouse, Archie, Richie Rich, etc.) or children's books are perfect as inexpensive stocking stuffers (10 cents and up). We also have collectible books, comics, magazines, and we now have a growing selection of DVDs! We accept all major credit cards and we now offer gift certificates good for anything we sell (because book lovers can be very picky people).

Don't forget about Sterling Studio Jewelry, Feather's Vintage Clothing & More, Gem City Records (they still have actual vinyl records for collectors!), Jimmy Modern for furnishings and decor, Hollywood Handbags, and, believe it or not, Goodwill! Aside from their typical used items, Goodwill now has iPod and cell-phone accessories, Nintendo DS game cartridges, and all kinds of other great things.

Then there's all the great places to grab a bite while you're in the Oregon District. Non-bar dining includes Arby's, Smokin' BBQ (great food!), 5th Street Deli, The Oregon Emporium, and our personal favorite, Dolcessa for panini, gelato, and espresso. For more serious dining there's Jay's Seafood and Steaks, Cafe Boulevard, Pacchia, The Dublin Pub, and newest addition, John Henry's. For bar dining there's The Oregon Express, The Tumbleweed Connection, and The Trolley Stop.

Wanna just dance, party, or grab a drink after a hectic day? Hit up Ned Pepper's or Sloopy's!

The Oregon District has something for everybody. Don't forget to make it part of your shopping experience. We'll thank you, your gift recipients will thank you, and best of all, you'll thank yourself for shopping and saving in Dayton's first, oldest, and most interesting destination. The Historic Oregon District!