Dayton937

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

Jazz

Tiki Cocktail Class at Whisperz Speakeasy

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Dive into the vibrant world of tiki and impress your friends with newfound cocktail skills that bring a touch of paradise to any gathering. Escape to island night at Whisperz Speakeasy’s Tiki Cocktail Class — an immersive, hands-on dive into the bold flavors and playful techniques of tiki mixology. From rum blends and tropical syrups to layered finishes, our expert mixologists guide you through classic and contemporary tiki recipes while sharing tips for crafting balanced, crowd-pleasing cocktails.

Each ticket includes your own handcrafted cocktails, expertly paired small plates that highlight bright, tropical flavors, and gratuity — all for $80 per person.

  • Learn to craft three sophisticated tiki cocktails with expert guidance.
  • Enjoy tropical food pairings in an elegant speakeasy setting.
  • Includes small plates and gratuity, enhancing your tiki experience.

Bring your aloha spirit: tiki attire is highly recommended. Doors open at 7:00 PM; the experience runs through 9:00 PM. Limited seats — secure yours and learn how to make island magic in every glass at Whisperz Speakeasy!

FREE Live Music from Noah Wotherspoon

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Join us on Thursday, June 11th, from 7-10 pm as we welcome the Noah Wotherspoon Solo to the Whisperz Speakeasy stage! Noah Wotherspoon is a phenomenal and captivating musician who found his calling at a young age and made a name for himself as one of the leading musicians and blues guitarists in Dayton, Ohio. He returns this Thursday for a night of jazz, blues, and classic rock favorites you won’t want to miss!

Please remember, we do not accept reservations. Guests are seated on a first-come, first-serve basis. We request guests dress appropriately, meaning business casual through evening elegance or period-appropriate attire, if you wish (jeans are acceptable but must be well-kempt). We are 25 & up and require a valid ID for entry!

Please remember, there is no cover charge for FREE LIVE MUSIC at Whisperz Speakeasy, but the password is required for entry and can be found on our website! www.thedrinkerys.com

FREE Live Music from Golden Hour

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Taking the stage from 7-10 pm on Wednesday, May 20th, for the first time at Whisperz Speakeasy – Golden Hour joins us for a night to remember! Golden Hour is a relaxing performance with stellar musicianship, sultry vocals, and song selection that pairs perfectly with a night out for drinks. Golden Hour has been honing their craft everywhere between Florida, and Alabama to Wisconsin, and Illinois. This solo performance includes songs from artists such as Jack Johnson, Pearl Jam, Amy Winehouse, Tom Petty, Jimmy Buffet and many more. Making it an event you don’t want to miss!

Every Wednesday, we offer 25% off standard whiskey, bourbon, and scotch pours & cocktails!

Please remember, we do not accept reservations. Guests are seated on a first-come, first-serve basis. We require guests dress in appropriate attire, meaning business casual through evening elegance or period-appropriate attire, if you wish (jeans are acceptable but must be well-kempt). We are 25 & up and require a valid ID for entry!

Please remember, there is no cover charge for FREE LIVE MUSIC at Whisperz Speakeasy, but the password is required for entry and can be found on our website! www.thedrinkerys.com

An Evening of Jazz, Bossa Nova, and Global Harmony at Joui Wine

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This Wednesday, Dayton music lovers are invited to experience something truly special: an intimate concert featuring the remarkable musical partnership of trombonist and vocalist Natalie Cressman and composer and guitarist Ian Faquini at Joui Wine. Presented by Venus Child Productions, the evening promises an evening of sophisticated jazz, Brazilian grooves, and enchanting vocals that will transport audiences across continents and musical traditions. Local singer and recent Berklee graduate Kammeron Frost opens up this special evening of live music.

Though calling Cressman and Faquini a duo understates the depth of their musical collaboration, their partnership represents something far more expansive. Hailing from San Francisco and Brasilia respectively, the two artists have cultivated a singular creative communion that draws from their shared love of the Brazilian songbook, jazz, Impressionism, and sophisticated pop songcraft.

What sets this duo apart is their fearless eclecticism. Their original compositions weave lyrics in Portuguese, French, and English into a rich tapestry of sounds that borrows from multiple stylistic traditions. Accompanied by the warm tones of acoustic guitar and trombone, their sumptuous two-part vocal harmonies create a richly orchestrated sound that belies the intimate duo format, seeming to emanate from a much larger ensemble.

Cressman, a trombonist, vocalist, and songwriter, brings sophisticated melodic sensibility to the ensemble, while Faquini’s composition and guitar work provide both harmonic depth and rhythmic vitality. Together, they’ve created a sound that feels both timeless and contemporary, sophisticated yet deeply soulful.

HOW TO GO?

Join Natalie Cressman and Ian Faquini for an evening of live music this Wednesday, October 15, 2025 at Joui Wine, located at 117 E 3rd St, Dayton, OH. Doors open at 7:00 p.m., with the show running from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Tickets are available for $20 in advance or $25 at the door. This is an event for ages 21 and up.

To learn more about the artists, visit Natalie Cressman’s website

Sam King + The Suspects and Strange Ranger at The Brightside

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Strange Ranger is pairing up with Sam King + The Suspects for a night of jazz, funk, rock, soul, and folk for a double-header show at the Brightside.

With an expansive repertoire like that, there’s gonna be a little something for everyone and a little of everything for someone — it’s like a three-day music fest packed into one night for the price of a couple of PBRs.

Dayton’s Strange Ranger — not to be confused with the Portland indie rock band of the same name — is, to borrow a word from the Romans, a badass triumvirate: Rob Brockman holds down the fort (the thumping backbeat); Rob Thaxton licks up his basslines; and Chris Coat commands the fretboard like a stoic.

Again, three for the price of one.

Sam King has a powerhouse voice further cemented by The Suspects she plays alongside. King wailed on the vocal solo in “The Great Gig in the Sky” in Black Jacket Symphony’s tribute to Pink Floyd and carved out a folky act back home, à la Joni Mitchell. Plus, opening up for Tommy Stinson’s Cowboys in the Campfire last year ain’t too shabby to have on a resume either.

Sam King + The Suspects have an acoustic set prepared as their drummer heals from an injury; Strange Ranger is the same as it ever was.

We’ve got a supportive music community here in Dayton; no band seems to step on another band’s toes to get ahead, and they often go the extra mile to say nice things about each other.

So, with that said, here is Strange Ranger on Sam King, and Sam King on Strange Ranger:

Strange Ranger: “Sam is an incredible musician supported by a group of other incredible musicians! They have such a great blend of soul, rock, and folk. We think it’s going to be an awesome mix that will highlight the similarities in our sounds but also showcase the diverse influences.”

Sam King: “It’s an honor to share an evening and stage with Strange Ranger. Their resumes are beyond impressive but beyond that, they’re incredible people who always put the music first. You can tell that they just dig every second of playing together and that’s a gift to witness. The Brightside has always done a sensational job of showcasing bands like that. I think the sets will be complimentary as some of our similar influences come through.”

There you have it, with a Brightside compliment to boot: nothin’ but good vibes, and nothin’ but a good time. How can you resist?

Sam King + The Suspects and Strange Ranger are playing The Brightside (905 E 3rd St, Dayton, Ohio 45402) on Thursday, April 18. Doors are at 7:30 p.m. Show is at 8 p.m. All ages are welcome. Presale tickets are $10 at VenuePilot, $15 at the door.

An Evening of Latin Jazz kicks off The Brightside’s 2023-2024 Season

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Natalie Cressman & Ian Faquini

Between the amazing sound system, chic decor, and friendly staff have contributed to fans, The Brightside has quickly become one of Dayton’s favorite indoor music and event venues. While the bulk of their events are private, typically weddings, they are excited to kick off the concert series this fall.

“We have so many amazing outdoor venues around town that are putting out great concerts all summer,” Libby Ballengee, the venue’s music booker said. “We don’t really want to compete with them. So we’re opting for more of a performing arts style calendar, with the majority of our public events happening September through early May.”

The Brightside’s 2023-2024 season kicks off on Wednesday, September 6th with a night of Latin Jazz in their VodVil Bar space. It has an intimate, jazz club feeling that gives old school Dayton music fans a Gilly’s or Canal Street vibe. The evening starts off with local guitarist Frank Calzada, who is reminiscent of early Carlos Santana. The headliners, Natalie Cressman and Ian Falquini, hail from New York City, and are making their Brightside debut.

Natalie is known for being part of Trey Anastasio’s Band, and touring major venues with that ensemble. This duo is her side project and one that’s dear to her heart. Hailed as a “rising star” in the jazz world, she is not only an amazing musician, she’s a fabulous singer too.

Frank Calzada (Photo by Fea Fotos)

Ian Faquini is a Brazilian composer, guitarist, and vocalist who was born in Brazil and has lived in Berkeley, California since the age of eight. He was a member of the renowned Berkeley High School Jazz program, and at the age of 15, Ian met the legendary Brazilian composer Guinga, who became his mentor and inspired him to pursue a career in music.

The combination of these two artists creates an intimate collaboration, drawing from impressionism, jazz, and the great Brazilian songwriting tradition. This is a concert that Latin and jazz fans alike will not want to miss!

The rest of the concert series at The Brightside continues to be eclectic, with a Korean-American folk singer headlining a female songwriter showcase on September 25th. You can find anything from Blues, Celtic, Jam, Rock, and Hip-Hop shows to Dayton Dinner Theater and fundraisers peppered throughout the Brightside’s season. Get tickets and information here: thebrightsidedayton.com

HOW TO GO?

The Brightside Music & Event Venue (905 E 3rd St., Dayton)

Wednesday, Sept 6

Doors 7pm / Show 8pm

$18 advance or $25 day of show – https://www.venuepilot.co/events/81810/orders/new

All ages welcome!

 

 

Jazz on the Green Every Wednesday at Yankee Trace

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Head to Yankee Trace  on Wednesday evenings for golf course views, smooth music and satisfying food and drinks. Performers include the top artists in the area! The music and atmosphere are complimentary, light entrees and beverages available from 5pm til 8pm.

Reservations can be booked by clicking o one of the dates below. For safety, the eventJazz may be moved indoors if inclement weather is forecasted.

Jazz on the Green Entertainers
June 7 Jazz
Deron Bell
Sold Out		 June 14 Jazz
Bob Depiro
Reserve		 June 21 Jazz
Bob Depiro
Reserve
June 28 Jazz
Deron Bell
Reserve		 July 5 Jazz
Deron Bell
Reserve		 July 12 Jazz
Bob Depiro
Reserve
July 19 Jazz
Bob Depiro
Reserve		 July 26 Jazz
Deron Bell
Reserve		 August 2 Jazz
Bob Depiro
Reserve
August 9 Jazz
Deron Bell
Reserve		 August 16 Jazz
Bob Depiro
Reserve		 August 23 Jazz
Paul Caver
Reserve

Yankee Trace

The Golf Club At Yankee Trace Logo

10000 Yankee Street

Centerville, OH 45458

 937.438.4653

Jazz Supergroup Performs Exclusive Show at The Brightside

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I first saw Jennifer Hartswick perform at a sold-out concert in New York City.  She was playing trumpet for Trey Anastasio’s solo project. I was blown away by the entire horn section’s talent, which included trumpet, trombone, and sax players. It’s the kind of musical experience that truly removes you from your troubles, and delivers a true sense of joy. I longed to bring talent on that level to my friends in Dayton.

The members of The Jennifer Hartswick Band

A few years later, I had just an opportunity. My friend Carli Dixon had opened The Brightside on East 3rd St downtown and allowed me to host concerts of my choosing. What a gift! And funny enough, Jennifer had a solo project that was touring through venues just like The Brightside. I had the pleasure of hosting Jennifer not once,  but two times in our first year open, before the pandemic hit. In fact, Jennifer Hartswick was the last show we hosted, on March 10, 2020. Each time she’s brought her immense talent to our stage, the audience is enthralled, moved to actual tears of joy. 

So now that things are getting back to “normal,” I leaped at the opportunity to host Jennifer again. However, this time there was a twist. She is visiting us with a full band, including her writing partner Nick Cassarino on guitar, Conor Elmes on drums, and fellow Trey Anastasio Band members Dezron Douglas on bass and James Casey on sax. 

All of these musicians are superstars in their own right. Douglas is a protégé of the great Jackie McLean, and is currently a Jazz Studies professor at NYU Steinhardt. Elmes is a  member of the YoungBlood Brass Band. Cassarino may look familiar as he’s performed multiple times at The Brightside, and this summer on the Levitt stage with his band The Nth Power.

Casey being in Dayton is particularly special because he is currently going through cancer treatment for Stage 3 colon cancer. This week he posted: “The amount of planning it takes for me to be able to come on the road these days is more than you could imagine, and along with my fam, team and docs, they made (and continue to make) it happen. Total appreciation!”

I compare this group to the Wrecking Crew, who were the subject of a recent documentary. The Wrecking Crew was a loose collective of studio musicians who were the actual musicians who recorded hundreds of Top 40 songs during the 1960s and 1970s. The group was not publicly recognized but was viewed with reverence by industry insiders.

Dayton blues performer Steven Gregory

The Jennifer Hartswick Band is a live music version of the Wrecking Crew. You’ve probably seen them backing bigger names, but this is their time to shine! As a music nerd myself, I’m one of the industry insiders who views this group in absolute awe. 

A  lot of times, we have the tendency to want to hear what we know. That’s why tribute bands and cover bands are so popular. That’s why seeing bands that were popular during high school is so appealing. And while all of that is great, I’m interested in what’s happening now. Instead of clinging to nostalgia only, I’m wanting to bring musicians that are on fire right now, whom you normally can only see in the biggest cities. In fact, this group is only performing a very limited tour, and they selected Dayton specifically to visit because they enjoy visiting here so much. 

I truly hope Dayton audiences find some space in their lives for musical curiosity and check out this concert! Local blues musician, Steven Gregory, kicks off the show at 8 pm at  The Brightside on Thursday, October 13th.

 

HOW TO GO?

  • The Jennifer Hartswick Band
  • The Brightside Music & Event Venue  (905 E 3rd St, Dayton, OH)
  • October 13, 2022. Doors open at 7:30pm. Concert starts at 8pm.
  • All ages welcome
  • Tickets advance: $20 (Click link here)
  • Day of Show: $25

 

Adult Beginner Dance Classes Offered Downtown

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Looking for an adult dance class that is truly for beginners? Well, look no further! Brittany Butler, a former professional ballerina with the Dayton Ballet, is offering a 6-week adult dance class for all ages and levels of dance with her business “Brittany Moves.” If you’ve wanted to dip your toe into dance – for the first time or as a refresher, this is your class.

This series will take place at The Brightside (905 E 3rd St) in the beautiful Upside Loft (upstairs). This series starts on Monday, April 18th, and runs each Monday through May 23rd, from 5:30-7pm. You can join at any time along the way!  

“We will begin with stretching to allow the kinks to loosen up and work themselves out. This 15-minute period will also work as a grace period for those who may need a few minutes after work, to get parked, changed, etc. Then we will focus on warming up the body by moving the muscles and joints – getting the heart rate up,” Butler explained.

‘Then we will learn some ballet,” Butler continues. “And we’ll end with some simple jazz combinations since jazz has many foundations in the creation of dance. You can take away these moves and practice on your own time. It’s a great feeling to be working in a group creating movement to the beat. Don’t sweat if you aren’t able to make each class – there is plenty of variety to cover week to week!”

Butler explained that regular workout clothing is fine to wear to these classes. Ballet attire is not required. 

HOW TO GO?

The Brightside (905 E 3rd St)

Upside Loft (upstairs).

This series starts on Monday, April 18th, and runs each Monday through May 23rd, from 5:30-7pm. (15 min grace period before doors lock)

Single classes are $15
4-week class package is $50
6-week class package for $72

Secure Your Spot Here: 👇
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/adult-beginner-dance-class-tickets-315556346527

 

Brooklyn’s Jonathan Scales Fourchestra Performs at The Brightside

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Brooklyn’s Jonathan Scales Fourchestra is in town on Thursday November 18, 2021 performing at The Brightside (905 E 3rd St, Dayton). This inventive crew delivers complexities for the modern ear. It promises to be a joyous evening of steel pan jazz fusion!

Jonathan Scales is one of the most innovative steel pannists on the planet, and is redefining and challenging traditional expectations of his signature instrument. In his hands, the sonic palette of an instrument often associated with cruise ships and tropical resorts is radically expanded to mimic the role of horns, piano, vibraphone or marimba due to his stunning, virtuosic technique. Scales’ mesmerizing compositions have captivated listeners and elevated him to the status of a true composer, forging new territory in the medium of instrumental music.

This concert will take place in the Brightside’s cozy Vodvil Bar. $12 advance. $15 day of show. All ages are welcome. Thursday November 18, 2021. Doors open at 7pm. Music from 8-10pm. Tickets can be purchased at this link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/jonathan-scales-fourchestra-tickets-204834614847

Covid Policy: The Brightside wants everyone to enjoy music safely, so they ask that patrons wear masks while moving through the building, unless patrons wants to optionally show proof of vaccination, or a negative covid test. The venue has installed UV-C air filters to sanitize superbugs, like covid.
To learn more about The Brightside’s concert season, visit thebrightsidedayton.com

GRAMMY award winning jazz comes to The Brightside Sunday October 20th!

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The Brightside Music & Event Venue invites you to another intimate evening of world class jazz-funk-world music from 3x Grammy award winning guitarist Bob Lanzetti, of Snarky Puppy fame!

Bob Lanzetti is a Brooklyn, NY based professional guitarist, composer, producer, and educator. He has performed and recorded with many artists throughout the NYC area as well as played in over 40 countries with the three time Grammy Award Winning jazz/funk collective, Snarky Puppy: Best R&B Performance in 2014 (“Something” featuring Lalah Hathaway), and Best Contemporary Instrumental Album in 2016 and 2017 (“Sylva” with Metropole Orkest and “Culcha Vulcha”, respectively).

Bob Lanzetti’s group consists of a collective of old friends who have been playing together in a variety of settings for over a decade. The band is able to move as one, effortlessly changing styles as well as weaving between composition and improvisation. The group draws inspiration from many genres of music. In a given performance you can hear hints of Americana, jazz, avant-garde, rock, afro-beat, country, and free improvisation, sometimes all within the same tune. Currently the group consists of Jordan Perlson on drums (Adrian Belew, Banda Magda, Becca Stevens Band) and Matt Aronoff on bass (Banda Magda, Fred Hersch, Kenny Werner).

Bob released his debut record as a leader entitled, Whose Feet are These That are Walking, in fall of 2017 to positive reviews and has done a number of US tours in support of the album.

HOW TO GO?

Sunday October 20, 2019

at The Brightside Music & Event Venue – 905 E 3rd St

Doors 7pm. Show 8-10pm

Advance tickets $10 (https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/4372687)
Day of show $15

All ages Welcome!

Music and Art Go Hand in Hand on Fine Art Final Friday!

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Music fans are in for a treat on Friday June 28th when Marbin, the up-and-coming progressive jazz-rock band based in Chicago, comes back to town! This exciting act is taking the stage at Dayton’s hottest new music spot: The Brightside Music & Event Venue. Special guest Ben Delaurentis kicking off the night at 9pm!

Added bonus to this show! The Brightside is serving up food and amazing tunes on Friday night. The lovely ladies who run Drunkin’ Waffle / Twisted Taco will be on site as soon as doors open, to serve up some tasty food!

If you’re really looking to round out this cultural date night – I’d suggest getting out early and checking out some visual art around town. Fine Art Final Fridays is a new trend downtown, spurred by gallery owner Edward Dixon. This month he features three of Ben Ibebe‘s amazing pieces from his 6 painting “Jazz Series” which has never been shown outside of Dayton, Ohio! Meters are free after 6pm. So get your fine art on, and then get your groove on at The Brightside!

How To Go?

Friday June 28, 2019

Gallery Show: 5-9pm at Edward Dixon Gallery – 12 S Ludlow St Dayton, Ohio. No entry fee!

Marbin Concert: 

The Brightside Music & Event Venue – 905 E 3rd St Dayton, Ohio

Doors 8pm. Show 9-11pm.

$10 at the door

All ages

Food: Twisted Taco food truck

Presented by Venus Child Productions

More about the Music

Marbin has a unique story that stands out in today’s music world. With a do-it-yourself approach, they started started touring extensively in 2011, bringing their original instrumental music to every part of the United States. Through word of mouth, Marbin has gained the attention of thousands of devoted fans all over the world. This is your chance to see them right here in Dayton!

Ben is a singer-songwriter from Lynchburg, Virginia whose warm tones and heartfelt lyricism create an authentic, intimate experience for the listener.

Vanessa Rubin Performs Free Jazz Concert

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Revered as both a torchbearer and a storyteller, jazz vocalist Vanessa Rubin possesses a voice hailed for crystalline clarity, warmth and sass. The Cleveland native brings a wealth of diverse influences to her vocal performance from both the Trinidadian/Caribbean roots of her mother and traditional jazz by way of her Louisiana-born father.

At 7pm on Saturday, March 24th  a short interview will be conducted by Fenton Sparks to help you get to know Vanessa a bit better. The free concert will start at 7:30 pm.

 

Her career began as a young woman in 1980 singing in small clubs in Cleveland, Ohio performing with musicians such as Wynn Bibbs, Skip Gibson, saxophonist and arranger Willie Smith, Neal Creque, Matthew “Chink” Stevenson.  It did not take her long to make the big trip to New York where she joined up with other jazz musicians like Pharaoh Sanders, Frank Foster and Cecil Bridgewater and Barry Harris. Her first recording contract was with Novus/RCA Records making five albums in three years. “Full Circle” (Creative Perspective Music – 2013) is her most recent recording and is a joint project with saxophonist Don Braden, both of whom are from the Midwest and share a deep appreciation for the Hammond B3.

 

Vanessa will be performing with an Ohio based trio: Dreve Ivy on piano, Peter Dominguez on bass and Reggie Jackson will to return to the Hayner on drums. In Vanessa’s own words: “I will say they are all fine musicians and wonderful human beings.  Drene is a Cleveland native, an accomplished pianist, accompanist, music instructor and Minister of Music at his place of worship. Peter is the Bass Chair at Oberlin College and is one of the best kept secrets on acoustic bass in the country.  After 30 years in NY and playing with only the best, I am delighted to discover him right here under my nose in Ohio. Reggie, from Columbus, is no stranger to the center as he has played there previously with Bobby Floyd, whom he plays with regularly and has toured extensively with Grammy Winner Dianne Sure.

 

The Troy-Hayner Cultural Center is proudly supported by the citizens of the Troy City School District through a local tax levy and generous gifts to the Friends of Hayner. For more information regarding these free events and to receive a complete listing of events taking place at the Hayner Center, please call 339-0457 or visit our website at www.TroyHayner.org for complete details

WYSO To Launch Locally Hosted Jazz Show

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WYSO Public Radio will add a new locally hosted music program to its lineup on Monday, March 5.  Equinox, which takes its name from the classic John Coltrane composition, is a weekly, three-hour jazz radio show. Each Monday night, host Duante Beddingfield will lead listeners on a journey through straight-ahead jazz, from classic tracks to the latest releases, including local musicians, obscure performers, and artists from all over the world putting their own unique stamp on the music.

Beddingfield is a Dayton native and formerly served as jazz writer for both the Dayton Daily News and Dayton City Paper. He has booked jazz musicians for area venues such as Pacchia, and performs regularly around the region as a jazz vocalist with musical partner Randy Villars.

 

“Hosting a jazz radio program has always been one of those lifelong dreams,” says Beddingfield.  “Jazz is an art form that doesn’t tend to get proper credit these days, and I’m incredibly excited for the chance to bring some great jazz to the local radio landscape. I’m looking forward to sharing some good times and great music with WYSO listeners.”

 

Equinox will air Monday nights on WYSO, 8-11pm.  Shakin’ Dave Hussong’s Hall of Fame Blues will move to Sunday afternoons from 3-5pm.

 

“We are delighted to expand the number of locally-produced music shows on WYSO,” says WYSO Music Director Niki Dakota. “WYSO continues its tradition of identifying and nurturing Miami Valley residents who are passionate about music, and are driven to share it.  Duante brings passion for jazz and a great deal of experience to Monday nights.”

 

Equinox will begin airing on WYSO on Monday, March 5.  Hall of Fame Blues will be heard on Sundays beginning March 11.  As part of the schedule update, Snap Judgement  will now follow Tables of Contents, on Tuesdays at 10pm, and The Jewel Case will be followed by eTown  on  Thursdays at 11pm. The complete schedule of changes can be found at WYSO.org.

Celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2018, public radio station WYSO 91.3 is licensed to Antioch College with studios in Yellow Springs. It broadcasts on multiple platforms: 91.3 FM, live streaming at WYSO.org, on HD radio and on the Public Radio Player, a mobile application. WYSO is the Miami Valley’s only NPR News station with programming from NPR, Public Radio International, American Public Media, PRX and the BBC as well as the work of local and independent radio producers.

 

Luminaries of Dayton: Mitchell “Booty”Wood

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Mitchell “Booty” Wood studied trombone at Dunbar High School. After graduation he joined the Lionel Hampton Band and later played with Duke Ellington and Count Basie. By his count, he traveled more than 2 million miles on the road playing jazz in Sweden, Japan, South America, Mexico and France. In each band he held the position of first trombone and won high praise from the band leaders and their enraptured audiences. After his travels, Booty returned home to Dayton and Dunbar High School and Central State University to teach jazz, using it as a vehicle to promote the benefits of constant practice, discipline, and the joy of music.

Mitchell “Booty” Wood died on June 10, 1987. He is located in Section 300 Lot 40.

 

Woodland Cemetery, founded in 1841, is one of the nation’s oldest rural garden cemeteries and a unique cultural, botanical and educational resource in the heart of Dayton, Ohio. Visit the cemetery and arboretum and take one of the many tours Woodland offers free of charge. Most of Dayton’s aviation heroes, inventors and business barons are buried at Woodland.

Woodland Cemetery and Arboretum is located at 118 Woodland Avenue off of Brown Street near the University of Dayton Campus. The Woodland Office is open Monday through Friday 8 am to 5 pm and Saturday 8 am to 12 pm. The Cemetery and Arboretum are open daily from 8 am to 6 pm. The Mausoleum is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm. For more information, call 937-228-3221 or visit the Woodland Cemetery and Arboretum website.

Dive Bar Tuesday – Phone Booth Lounge

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And the the night began: with a cocktail or two).

And the the night began: with a cocktail or two).

Since the team started working on Dive Bar Tuesdays, one bar has been at the top of our list to get to sooner than later. It is one that we all discovered while working together and we had been attending for a while. The location was relatively central to where we all lived, the food and drink prices were right, and the atmosphere was incredibly relaxed. Schedules did not align, especially since on Tuesday nights the bar was packed. Packed to the point people were making reservations. Reservations? In a dive bar? When Tuesday Night Trivia is so popular that majority of the tables in the place are set aside, something special has to be happening. This week we were finally able to make it to the Phone Booth Lounge in Kettering. It was much quieter than the last few times we tried to enjoy the calm atmosphere we were accustomed to.

The Phone Booth just exudes calm. It could be the fact that they have been serving customers for the last five decades. That’s right, they have been sitting there taking care of customers since 1964. The wood paneled walls and stained ceiling tiles tell that tale well. And not in a “this place needs an update” way. It is just comfortable, like a well-worn sweater. The bartenders are friendly, going the distance to help me find a whiskey I enjoyed (I was feeling some Bushmill’s) and rooting through the beer cooler for me. There were photos of bands surrounding the stage, and lit signs indicating all of the upcoming events being held there. There is live music all weekend, including a Blues Jam on Thursday nights. Monday through Wednesday they have beer specials and something different each night; Wii bowling on Mondays, trivia on Tuesday, and warm up the stage on Wednesday with karaoke. This month they will also be teaming up with the Dayton Blues Society for their Second Annual Youth Showcase on February 20th.

Their cocktail menu reflects their claim of being the Home of Kettering Rock and Roll. The shot list falls on the more traditionally named side, with Black and Blues, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, and Sweet Tarts. When you look over to the cocktail menu, however, the rock comes out. You can find some Sweet Emotions, possibly Blinded by the Light, or end up Knocking on Heaven’s Door. There is a list of beers, wines, and other liquors they have on the back, but it is not a complete list. There is one thing that they took down that I really enjoyed using to see all their beers; a beer shelf that hung over the bar. It allowed you to look at the selection of specialty beers and be ready to order on a moment’s notice. This is also one of the few bars I have been to where all of the liquor is not up where it can be immediately seen. The hiding of the complete beer and liquor menu may just be a clever ploy to get you to chat with the staff.

So. Many. Nachos.

So. Many. Nachos.

The food menu is a perfect complement to the space. It is all very comfortable food. You are not going to hit many surprises on it, unless you order the nacho platter without understanding what you are asking for. There was other food on the table, like hot dog pretzel bites and fried mushrooms, but we all turned our heads when the nachos came. It was big enough to serve the five people that were sitting there, and there were enough toppings on it to hold it all together. Even after nibbling on it for the better part of an hour, we did not finish it. It was one hell of a surprise to see on the table, and makes me curious as to what other surprises may be lurking in that kitchen.

Why is this place packed on a Tuesday night? It is definitely more than for just the trivia. Good food and good company are part of the equation, even if you come alone. You have great bartenders to talk with, and there is pool, darts, and on Monday nights, bowling to keep you occupied. You can admire the art show on the ceiling tiles through the building, some of which has been there for years. In the warmer months there is a patio for your enjoyment. For a low key night with friends, it is the perfect place to meet, get cozy, and hang out for a few hours.

The Phone Booth Lounge is located at 155 E. Stroop Rd., Kettering, OH 45459. You can call for information at (937) 298-8712.