There’s something timeless and magical about a county fair. It’s where sizzling funnel cakes, giant stuffed animals, and the hum of carnival rides come together to create an experience that’s pure Americana. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a foodie, a music lover, or just looking for a fun day out with the family, the county fair offers a little something for everyone.
Get Toasted this Summer with BJ’s S’mores Pizookie®
BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse is serving up summer in the boldest, most indulgent way possible—with the return of its beloved Graham Cracker S’mores Pizookie®, a fresh lineup of seasonal brews, including BJ’s Sweet Sin Chocolate Porter™, BJ’s Hard Root Beer and BJ’s Co-Hoperate Hazy Pils™, and the new All-American Smash Burger—perfect pairings for long summer days and starry nights.

The Graham Cracker S’mores Pizookie® is more than a dessert—it’s a full on summer vibe. Inspired by the nostalgic flavors of the classic campfire treat, this limited-time Pizookie® features a warm, gooey Ghirardelli® chocolate cookie base, topped with golden graham cracker crumbles, toasted marshmallows and two generous scoops of rich vanilla bean ice cream. Originally spun off from the cult-favorite Peanut Butter S’mores Pizookie®, this version ditches the peanut butter and adds in a twist that screams summer nights around a campfire.
Want s’more? This crave-worthy dessert returns just in time to accompany a lineup of seasonal brews and a new smash burger that are guaranteed to have you feeling the summer lovin’:
- BJ’s Hard Root Beer: A nostalgic yet modern take on a soda shop classic with flavors of vanilla, licorice, sassafras, wintergreen and molasses. Make it extra special by adding 2 scoops of our vanilla bean ice cream for a delicious adult root beer float!
- BJ’s Sweet Sin Chocolate Porter™: Crafted with real Ghirardelli® chocolate, just like the Graham Cracker S’mores Pizookie®, this silky, full-bodied porter is a dessert lover’s dream. With notes of both dark chocolate and roasted coffee, BJ’s new chocolate porter will have you wishing it was five o’clock already.
- BJ’s Co-Hoperate Hazy Pils™: A hybrid brew that blends the crisp refreshment of a pilsner with the soft, juicy hops of a hazy. This global collaboration with Germany’s König Brewery lets you take a transatlantic trip without the jet lag.
- All-American Smash Burger: Nothing says summer quite like BJ’s new All-American Smash Burger, a backyard cookout classic elevated to perfection. Featuring two perfectly smashed and seared beef patties topped with melty American cheese and BJ’s signature sauce, all nestled in a premium parker house bun, this mouthwatering creation delivers the perfect blend of crispy edges and juicy center that’ll transport you to a summertime BBQ. Available Monday through Friday as part of BJ’s $13 Pizookie® Meal Deal, complete with crispy fries and a personal Pizookie® for the ultimate indulgence.
“Summer is the time for making unforgettable memories with friends and loved ones—whether you’re clinking glasses over a refreshing, ice-cold brew or sharing stories around a campfire with an iconic s’more. So, we’re making it easy to savor the summer vibes with an all-new Pizookie® and an assortment of craft beers and hard root beer,” said Heidi Rogers, Senior Vice President of Marketing at BJ’s Restaurants, Inc. “Unlike other chains that outsource their beer production, BJ’s owns every step of the process, brewing in-house from grain to glass. This approach is central to our brewing philosophy and allows us to keep pushing the boundaries with artisanal offerings like the BJ’s Sweet Sin Chocolate Porter™, unique collaborations like our new Co-Hoperate Hazy Pils™ and a refreshing Hard Root Beer—perfect for an adult take on the classic soda. Plus, with the Graham Cracker S’more Pizookie®, you can indulge in the summer’s most iconic treat without striking a match.”
For more information on the Graham Cracker S’mores Pizookie®, Sweet Sin Chocolate Porter, Hard Root Beer, Co-Hoperate Hazy Pils, or All-American Smash Burger, visit www.bjsrestaurants.com.
Beginner Stand-Up Paddleboard Yoga
Join us for a fun and relaxing session of Stand-Up Paddleboard Yoga at RiverScape MetroPark! Whether you’re new to yoga or paddleboarding, this class is perfect for beginners looking to unwind and find balance on the water. Our experienced instructors will guide you through gentle yoga poses while floating on paddleboards. It’s a unique way to connect with nature and improve your strength and flexibility. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to try something new and rejuvenate your mind and body!
Dave’d and Confused at Heather’s
Bottomless Appetizers At Buffalo Wild Wings
Buffalo Wild Wings has just launched a new Bottomless Apps deal, available for dine-in only. Starting today, you can dig into endless rounds of two apps at a time, which starts at $9.99 for the table. That’s right, you’ll be getting their fan-favorite appetizers such as Fried Pickles, Mozzarella Sticks, Onion Rings, Chips & Salsa, and Hatch Queso.

When you order “Bottomless Apps,” you’ll receive unlimited rounds of appetizers. The only catch is that you can only order two appetizers at time. It’s important to note that price points may change based on how many are in your party and which state you live in (for example, California, Hawaii, or New York could implement slight price increases). This deal only applies to parties of four, with additional costs for more than four guests. There’s currently no end date for this initiative and it’s only available in participating locations within the franchise.
Gather to Transform into Lucho, a Mezcal-Fueled Taco Bar
After two remarkable years as the first food and beverage company to open inside the recently revitalized Dayton Arcade, Gather—owned by Shane Anderson—is ready for its next evolution. Anderson is joining forces with Charlie Carroll and Hospitalité Group to temporarily close Gather and reimagine the space as Lucho, a bold burrito, taco, mezcal, and espresso bar, set to reopen in July.
While Gather will soon undergo a full transformation, the spirit of what made it special remains. From its earliest days, Gather became more than just a café—it was the heartbeat of the Arcade’s mornings. Known for its thoughtful espresso program, signature seasonal drinks, and high-quality beans, Gather served as a daily ritual for downtown regulars and visitors alike. Whether it was a hand-poured latte before work or a spiced Café de Olla shared over conversation, the café offered a warm, grounded sense of community with every cup.
Anderson, who brings more than 15 years of hospitality experience, will now join forces with Carroll, founder of Table 33 and several other Dayton food ventures. Both see this as a chance to level up. “Shane helped breathe life into the Arcade. His ability to build meaningful spaces—through coffee, food, and connection—has been invaluable,” said Carroll. “We’re excited to keep that momentum going with something completely fresh.”
Lucho will be a vibrant all-day taqueria-meets-mezcal-bar, with tacos, burritos, bowls, and cocktails served from morning into the night. The menu is packed with bold, soulful combinations like the “El Desvelo” breakfast taco with short rib and chipotle hollandaise, or the “La Baja” with beer-battered fish, charred pineapple salsa, and cabbage slaw.
While the name and flavors may be changing, Lucho will still carry pieces of Gather’s coffee culture forward. Expect signature drinks like the Café de Olla latte, Oaxacan Mocha, and the Mezcal Affogato—espresso poured over vanilla bean ice cream and a float of joven mezcal. Coffee drinkers can rest easy: their morning ritual will still have a home.
On the cocktail side, Lucho comes ready to party. The bar will serve everything from smoky agave Old Fashioneds to hibiscus-infused tequila spritzes, watermelon mezcal sours, and a decadent Churro Martini rimmed with cookie crumble.
At the same time, Carroll’s Hospitalité Group is launching a second concept—completely distinct from Lucho—called The Dessert Room. Housed in its own dedicated space connected to Table 33, The Dessert Room is a nostalgic after-dinner destination focused solely on elevated desserts and post-meal cocktails.
This isn’t just an add-on or side room—it’s a full-fledged experience of its own. Inspired by the kind of sweets that once graced your grandparents’ table (think pies, puddings, and cakes), The Dessert Room reimagines those classics with modern technique, bold flavors, and a little grown-up mischief. Expect warm slices of pie, boozy milkshakes, and candlelit comfort in an intimate, stand-alone setting made for lingering late into the night.
Both Lucho and The Dessert Room are part of a growing investment in downtown Dayton’s culinary scene. “This is about creating layers of experience,” said Carroll. “Gather started the story. Now, we’re building two completely different destinations—one spicy, one sweet, both unforgettable.”
Gather Bids Adieu
Thank you, Dayton.


We’ll see you soon — back at our roots on Wayne Ave.”
With love and gratitude,
The Gather by Ghostlight Team
Chili’s Debuts New Premium PATRÓN Frozen Margaritas
Chili’s® Grill & Bar, the seller of more margaritas than any restaurant brand in the U.S. — with more than 25 million sold last year alone — is raising the bar with three new, premium frozen choices.
Made with PATRÓN Silver tequila, the lineup features something for everyone:
- PATRÓN Frozen Marg – Timeless and smooth, Chili’s new frozen margarita features PATRÓN Silver, triple sec, lime juice and agave and starts at just $10. Guests can choose to add strawberry, mango, watermelon, blackberry, dragonfruit or even spicy flavor for an added punch.
- Flamingo Freeze – This vibrant, pink drink is made by shaking up Tito’s® Handmade Vodka with Owen’s Prickly Pear, then swirling with PATRÓN Frozen Marg for a sweet sip featuring a popular flavor in the southwest.
- Arctic Drift – Featuring a refreshing blend of Malibu® Coconut Rum, pineapple juice and Blue Curaçao, shaken then swirled with PATRÓN Frozen Marg, the Arctic Drift brings in flavors of the tropics, garnished with a lime wedge and maraschino cherry.
“As a leader in the margarita space, we saw a big opportunity to elevate and expand our frozen margs to be ones that our guests deserve,” said George Felix, Chief Marketing Officer at Chili’s Grill & Bar. “At Chili’s, margaritas are a core part of who we are – and now we’re proud to serve what we believe to be the best frozen margs in the industry. I can’t think of a better combination on a hot summer day than our all-new PATRÓN Frozen Marg and a Triple Dipper.”
Join the Great American Float!
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Morgan’s Fine Cuisine Ribbon Cutting & Grand Opening

Chef Morgan
A ribbon cutting for the Grand Opening of Morgan’s Fine Cuisine in Wright Dunbar will be held on Wednesday, June 25th at 11:00am with City of Dayton officials.
The new restaurant, founded by Executive Chef Phillip Morgan, features a dynamic menu that reimagines food trends and experiments with fusion cuisine. Chef Phil is the former executive chef at Mojo’s in Troy and dining supervisor at The University of Dayton. Chef Phil operated Morgan’s Catering out of The Entrepreneur’s Marketplace in Wright Dunbar and launched a food trailer in 2021. Opening his first brick-and-mortar location in Wright Dunbar, where he created his food following, was the next logical step in his business. The restaurant has been completely renovated including the dining room, kitchen & patio! The total project cost was $225,000, partially funded by CityWide Development Corporation utilizing the City of Dayton’s First Floor Funds & private investment by Wright Dunbar Inc. Morgan’s currently has 9 employees.
Morgan’s Fine Cuisine

1101 West Third St.
Dayton, OH 45402
(937) 239-4343
Open Tues– Sat 12-9 p.m
Red Lobster Brings Seafood Boils to Crabfest
Red Lobster is making a splash this summer with the return of its biggest crab event of the year – Crabfest! This year’s lineup is packed with exciting new flavors, including all-new Seafood Boils designed to bring fun and flavor straight to the table.
For the ultimate dining experience, guests can customize their seafood boil by choosing from two delicious options, Mariner’s Boil, featuring a Maine lobster tail, a dozen shrimp, snow crab legs, corn and red potatoes, or Sailor’s Boil, featuring a mix of shrimp, smoked sausage, corn and red potatoes. Each boil can be finished with a choice of bold flavors: Roasted Garlic Butter, Cajun Butter, or OLD BAY® seasoning, ensuring a crave-worthy combination in every bite.
“Red Lobster’s Crabfest is the ultimate summer dining experience, featuring exciting and flavorful dishes like our new Seafood Boils,” said Nichole Robillard, Chief Marketing Officer of Red Lobster. “Whether you’re a longtime Red Lobster lover or participating in Crabfest for the first time, we’ve got something to bring everyone joy.”
“Red Lobster’s Crabfest is the ultimate summer dining experience, featuring exciting and flavorful dishes like our new Seafood Boils,” said Nichole Robillard, Chief Marketing Officer of Red Lobster. “Whether you’re a longtime Red Lobster lover or participating in Crabfest for the first time, we’ve got something to bring everyone joy.”
With the fan favorite Crab Your Way offering, diners can enjoy a full pound of crab legs prepared your way over crispy potatoes. Diners can choose between Snow Crab or Bairdi Crab (+$9) and then choose their flavor between Simply Steamed, Roasted Garlic Butter, Cajun Butter or a NEW OLD BAY® & Parmesan flavoring.
New Crabfest Dishes
- Crabby Stuffed Mushrooms – A flavorful appetizer packed with rich crab stuffing
- Crab-Topped Asparagus – A premium side dish featuring asparagus topped with crab
- Crab-Topped Potato – A premium side dish, elevating a classic dish with savory crab
- Steak Oscar – Sirloin topped with lump meat in a creamy, decadent sauce
- Salmon Oscar – Atlantic salmon topped with lump crab meat in a cream, decadent sauce
Alongside the Seafood Boils, Red Lobster is introducing the “Festival of Summer Sips,’ a lineup of three festival-themed cocktails:
- Headliner: Purple Haze by Dre & Snoop, featuring STILL G.I.N. by Dre and Snoop, desert pear, handcrafted lemonade and sparkling gold shimmer.
- Opening Act: Passion Star Spritz, featuring Tito’s Handmade Vodka and passionfruit, topped with Wycliff Sparkling Wine and garnished with a gold-dusted dried starfruit.
- Encore: Starry Eyed Surprise, featuring Patron Silver Tequila, guava and blue curacao, topped with Starry® Lemon-Lime and garnished with sugar sprinkles rimmer.
Crab lovers won’t want to miss this crustacean celebration! Crabfest is available for a limited time, from June 23 – September 14, so head to Red Lobster to join in on the fun.
To view the complete menu or find a restaurant location, visit Red Lobster’s website
Destination Dayton® President & CEO Jacquelyn Powell To Retire
After 32 years of exceptional leadership and dedicated service to her hometown, Jacquelyn “Jacquie” Powell, President & CEO of Destination Dayton®, has announced her retirement, marking the end of a remarkable era in Montgomery County’s tourism and hospitality industry.
Powell has led Montgomery County’s destination marketing organization with passion, vision, and unwavering commitment. During her tenure, she has helped to elevate Dayton and Montgomery County as a vibrant destination for leisure, business, and group travel. Under her leadership, Destination Dayton® achieved transformational milestones, forged strong community partnerships, and delivered measurable economic impact through innovative tourism and hospitality initiatives.
“It has been the honor of my life to serve the community I love,” said Powell. “When I reflect on the last 32 years, I feel immense gratitude—for the people I’ve worked alongside, the partners who believed in our vision, and the visitors who came to discover everything Dayton and Montgomery County have to offer. Together, we’ve built something truly special—a resilient, creative, and thriving destination brand that reflects the heart of our region. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished, and I’m equally excited for what lies ahead for Destination Dayton® and the community.”
Powell began her career in hotel and private club sales and marketing in Dayton and Cincinnati before taking the helm at Destination Dayton®. Over three decades, her strategic insight and industry expertise helped attract major events, boost visitor spending, and strengthen Dayton’s identity as a tourism and business destination.
In 2023 alone, tourism in Montgomery County generated $2.6 billion in total economic impact, including $1.6 billion in direct visitor spending—a 4% increase from the previous year. The sector supported more than 22,750 jobs and fueled $709 million in labor income.
“Jacquie’s leadership has had a profound and lasting impact on this region,” said Scott DeBolt, Chair of the Destination Dayton® Board of Trustees and Executive Director of the University of Dayton Arena. “She has been a tireless advocate for Dayton, building Destination Dayton® into a trusted and influential organization. Her ability to bring people together, her deep industry knowledge, and her passion for our community have elevated the entire region. We are incredibly grateful for her decades of service and leadership.”
Beyond her role at Destination Dayton®, Powell has contributed her expertise and leadership to numerous boards and initiatives, including:
- Board of Trustees, United States Air & Trade Show, Inc. (supporting the CenterPoint Energy Dayton Air Show)
- Montgomery County Convention Facilities Authority
- Quality-of-Life Review Panel, Dayton Development Coalition’s Priority Development & Advocacy Council (PDAC)
- Governor’s Task Force for the National Afro-American Museum and Cultural Center
- Former leadership roles with the Buckeye Trails Girl Scout Council
- Dayton Rotary Club Member and Paul Harris Fellow
Powell’s influence has also extended to statewide and national policy. She is a past President of the Ohio Association of Convention & Visitors Bureaus and served on the Ohio Division of Travel and Tourism’s Advisory Council. She is a respected member of key industry organizations including Destinations International, the U.S. Travel Association, and the American Society of Association Executives.
“At its core, destination marketing is about people and pride of place,” added Powell. “It’s about capturing the spirit of a community and inviting others to experience it. I’ve been honored to share Dayton and Montgomery County’s story with the world—to highlight what makes us special, resilient, and worth visiting. Watching this region grow and shine has been one of the greatest privileges of my career.”
Details about the transition and the search for new leadership will be announced in the coming weeks. Powell will remain in her role through December 2025 to ensure a smooth transition and support the organization during this pivotal moment of change.
As Dayton and Montgomery County’s destination marketing organization, Destination Dayton® collaboratively leads and advocates for the development of the region’s visitor economy, which contributes to a thriving community, a diverse tax base and lifestyle amenities for everyone to enjoy.
Sunset Yoga at Deeds Point

Blues Fest at Levitt Pavilion
Join us this year as we celebrate the Blues Fest, part of the Amplified Series sponsored by the City of Dayton.
Doug Hart: Doug Hart, a Dayton, OH native, discovered his passion for music early, starting with the trumpet and later teaching himself guitar. Influenced by iconic bands like Van Halen and Led Zeppelin, Doug formed his first band post-high school and eventually immersed himself in blues, inspired by legends like Stevie Ray Vaughan. In 1998, he founded the Doug Hart Band (DHB), which has become a staple in the southwest Ohio blues scene, competing in the International Blues Challenge and performing at renowned venues such as Buddy Guy’s Legends and B.B. King’s in Memphis. Doug released his debut album “Reckless Life” in 2005, with a follow-up in progress. The current DHB lineup includes Rob Thaxton on bass and Craig Comer on drums, promising a dynamic blues/rock experience.
Shaun Booker Dammit Band: Shaun Booker, a Columbus, Ohio-based singer/songwriter and international recording artist, draws inspiration from her spiritual and blues roots. Known as “The Empress of Beale Street,” she has been inducted into The Columbus Blues Hall of Fame and won the 2023 Columbus Blues Challenge. Her band, The Shaun Booker Dammit Band, was a top 5 finalist at the 2024 International Blues Challenge, promising to captivate audiences with their soulful blues performances.
Anthony Gomes: Anthony Gomes, a Canadian vocalist, guitarist, songwriter, and producer, electrifies blues and rock with his powerful performances. Known for his fret-burning guitar skills, he has topped the Billboard Blues Chart, earned endorsements from legends like B.B. King, and performed globally. His latest album, “High Voltage Blues,” showcases his unique blend of blues and rock. Gomes has shared the stage with icons such as Buddy Guy and Joe Bonamassa, and his music continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
MJ: The Musical June 24 – 29
He is one of the greatest entertainers of all time. Now, Michael Jackson’s unique and unparalleled artistry comes to Dayton in MJ, the multiple Tony Award®-winning musical centered around the making of the 1992 Dangerous World Tour. Created by Tony Award®-winning director/choreographer Christopher Wheeldon and two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage, MJ goes beyond the singular moves and signature sound of the star, offering a rare look at the creative mind and collaborative spirit that catapulted Michael Jackson into legendary status. It’s thrilling sold out crowds on Broadway, in cities across North America, and in London’s West End… and now MJ is startin’ somethin’ in Dayton as it makes its premiere at the Schuster Center.
Four Courses, Exceptional Pairings with Cakebread Cellars
On Tuesday, June 24th at 6:30pm J. Alexander’s is partnering with Cakebread Cellars for an exclusive wine and dining experience! Enjoy an evening of exceptional wines expertly paired with a four-course signature meal.
First Course: Spanish Garlic Shrimp
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- Jumbo shrimp sautéed in Cakebread Sauvignon Blanc, smoked paprika, baguette
- Paired with Cakebread Cellars Sauvignon Blanc
Second Course: Watermelon Salad
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- Baby arugula, crispy panko, feta, cucumbers, pistachios, house vinaigrette
- Paired with Cakebread Cellars Chardonnay
Third Course: Beef Wellington
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- Red wine reduction, fondant potatoes
- Paired with Cakebread Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon
Fourth Course: Strawberry Shortcake
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- Balsamic gastrique, fresh whipped cream
- Paired with Cakebread Cellars ‘Two Creeks Vineyards’ Pinot Noir
Tickets are $125 per person (not including tax & gratuity). Guests can reserve a spot at the location of their choice using the following link: https://www.jalexanders.com/cakebread_wine_dinner/.