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McCoy on Movies: Red One

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Red One an entertaining albeit mismatched,
well-meaning Christmas action movie

 
“So … You know I could beat Cody Rhodes, right? All I need is one WWE contract …” Krampus (Kristopher Hivju) sizes up Callum Drift (Dwayne Johnson) in a scene from director Jake Kasdan’s RED ONE. Credit: Frank Masi/Prime © 2022 Amazon Content Services LLC.

WATCH THE TRAILER HERE:

 

 

KEY CAST MEMBERS: Chris Evans, Dwayne Johnson, Lucy Liu, Kristopher Hivju, Kiernan Shipka, Mary Elizabeth Ellis, Wesley Kimmel and Bonnie Hunt with J.K. Simmons

 

DIRECTOR: Jake Kasdan
 
THE BACK STORY: Santa Claus needs a lot of help to make Christmas happen every year. From the trolls and elves needed to sort and organize toys to those who help keep his reindeer healthy, Nick (J.K. Simmons) has plenty of assistance. That includes Mrs. Claus (Bonnie Hunt) and Callum Drift (Dwayne Johnson), the head of his security detail working under Zoe Harlow (Lucy Liu), the director of an organization that keeps track of all the creatures of the mythical world. 
 
Jack O’Malley (Chris Evans), however, is only concerned with one person and one person only: himself. That’s among the reasons he will take on any nefarious job thrown his way, the man known only as “The Wolf” on the dark web specializing in finding people that can’t be found. Unfortunately for his ex Olivia (Mary Elizabeth Ellis), that doesn’t extend to finding time to spend with his son Dylan (Wesley Kimmel).
All their worlds are about to collide, however, once Jack helps an unknown client track down a secret location in the North Pole that just so happens to be jolly ol’ – and very in shape – St. Nick’s home. Who has kidnapped Santa Claus and why is a mystery Cal and The Director realize they can’t solve, so they decide to bring in some outside help in the form of Jack – and he’s going to help them whether he as a Level Four “Naughty Lister” likes it or not.

 

THE REVIEW: RED ONE is entertaining, thanks to the strong performances of the cast, its action sequences which don’t feel overtly hokey or forced and relatable story. However, given that the aforementioned action sequences and language are far too intense for anyone under 10, the message of the film is geared more towards adults and it’s length at just over 2 hours in length, it’s also a movie without a defined audience. While the film explores one of the lost staples of Christmas – seeing the goodness in others – it also cuts off the carrot off its snowmen’s respective faces by not quite fitting into one particular audience. 

 

For all his recent WWE and athletic prowess, RED ONE reminds us that behind Johnson’s physicality also lies a man capable of conveying emotion with a simple gaze, vocal tone or smile. Johnson plays well against Evans’ character’s very anti-Captain America-like behavior, which never feels forced or included for the story’s sake. It’s the classic “I don’t like you, I don’t like you either” polar opposites formula, but it works as both Evans and Johnson execute it well. 

 

The biggest standpoint performances, however, belong to the film’s lesser-known cast members.  

Kiernan Shipka’s portrayal of Gryla, the evil Christmas witch, is never out of place, helping to make her a formidable foe once she is introduced into the story, even her own personal backstory never truly comes into focus. It is Game of Thrones alum Kristopher Hivju, however, who steals the show as Nick’s half brother Krampus, so much so that if he were to get his own spin-off film, it might do better than RED ONE is likely to do on its own.

Overall, RED ONE is an entertaining affair, but its constant flip-flopping between wanting to be an action movie and a family affair makes for a balanced experience that ends up feeling unbalanced for the very audiences it seeks to attract. It’s sort of like Cars meets The Fast and the Furious, which while entertaining on their own aren’t exactly the easiest mashup to make work together. It’s got just enough to keep you watching, but not enough to truly hook you into adding it to your Christmas classics list.

To quote the Bible verse where the quote is found, “no one can serve two masters.” In the case of RED ONE, trying to make a Christmas action movie feels like trying to serve to audiences at once, possibly to its own detriment even though, in the end, it works better than it should.

If nothing else, one thing is for sure: You’ll never look at Rock ‘Em, Sock ‘Em Robots the same way ever again.

OVERALL RATING (OUT OF FOUR POSSIBLE BUCKETS OF POPCORN):
 

 

 

 

 

 

Miami Valley: 2025 WiBN’s Women to Watch

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The Better Business Bureau’s Women in Business Networking (WiBN) program is thrilled to announce the 2025 Women To Watch honorees. WiBN Women To Watch honorees are dynamic professional women who have been recognized for inspiring and encouraging those around them to actively challenge the status quo, working to improve their communities, develop their employees and advocate for women in general. Rather than being content with others just watching them work, these women involve those around them in their endeavors thereby increasing their collective impact. They embrace the WiBN theme for 2025 – ”Empower To Excel”.

Sheri Sword, WiBN executive director, shares, “WiBN is thrilled to spotlight the women in the Women To Watch Class of 2025. They are role models for women in our marketplace. They strive for excellence in all they do whether it’s in their work, play or volunteerism. We applaud their efforts.”

2025 Women To Watch include:

Claudine Bennett

Dayton Metro Library

Claudine is the External Relations Manager for the Dayton Metro Library. Prior to that, she was the Marketing/Communications Manager for 23 years for the City of Kettering Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts Department. She holds a BA in Communications from Wright State University and an MPA from the University of Dayton. Claudine brings 31+ years of communications experience with daily work in marketing, public relations, brand management, crisis communication, and strategic communications.

Kandise Bobo

Sincalir Community College

Kandise Bobo, an accomplished leader in business education and community engagement, serves as the Executive Director of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program at Sinclair Community College. Armed with an MBA and years of experience in both academia and the business world, Kandise provides small business owners with the resources and support they need to succeed. She also teaches business classes at Sinclair and the Dayton Correctional Institute, where she is dedicated to helping students of diverse backgrounds gain practical business knowledge. Kandise is also actively involved in various community initiatives, including her position as a board member of the Dayton Foodbank. Through her leadership and advocacy, she strives to address food insecurity and promote equitable access to nutritious food for all members of the community.

Demarus Crawford-White

NPower Ohio

Demarus Crawford-White is the Executive Director of NPower Ohio, bringing over 20 years of experience in education, with a focus on non-traditional age student populations. Deeply aware of the burden of student loan debt, she has consistently sought creative solutions to help students navigate and avoid its consequences. Crawford-White has a long history of community involvement in Dayton, volunteering with several organizations that align with her commitment to improving the community by empowering others. She is a 2024 Leadership Ohio fellow, a 2019 Leadership Dayton graduate, and an active member of the Dayton Metro Library Foundation board, WYSO Community Action Board, and the Downtown Dayton Residents Association. At NPower Ohio, she is passionate about helping young people, retired military members, and their spouses transition into well-paying careers without educational debt. She and her husband Michael, residents of Dayton, are proud grandparents of five amazing grandchildren.

Dr. Carmela Daniels

Department of Veteran Affairs

Dr. Carmela Daniels is a dedicated social work educator and practitioner with over 20 years of experience serving diverse populations. She is a leader in the field, known for her expertise in anti-oppressive practice and her commitment to racial equity within social work and homeless programs. Dr. Daniels is also a sought-after speaker, offering presentations and workshops that blend humanity with purpose in leadership roles. She is a social work educator who has taught social work at the Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral levels and is passionate about mentoring the next generation of social workers. Currently, Dr. Daniels is spearheading initiatives within the Department of Veteran Affairs to address racial equity, focusing on transforming homeless programs into equitable and just systems. Her work is a testament to her lifelong dedication to social justice, community support, and empowering marginalized voices. She has received numerous awards and recognition for her service to communities in need.

Jocelin Dean

Dayton Development Coalition

Jocelin Dean serves as the Associate Talent Manager for the Dayton Development Coalition. In this role she works to support the workforce and talent needs of our long-standing local businesses and crafting recommendations to attract new businesses to the Dayton Region. Jocelin is a native Ohioan, growing up in Columbiana County before receiving her Bachelor’s in Communication from Wittenberg and settling in Dayton with her husband Nick and two children,  Sophia and Miles. She’s involved in several community organizations including the Junior League of Dayton, Ohio Cooperative Education Association, Levitt Pavilion (joining their board in November) Engineer’s Club, Dayton Area Logistics Association, and Board Development Committee for Girl Scouts of Western Ohio. Additionally, she was recognized by the Dayton Business Journal as a 40 Under 40 recipient in 2019 and is a 2022 graduate of Leadership Dayton.

Amanda DeLotelle

Miami Valley Meals

Amanda DeLotelle is the Executive Director and Co-Founder of Miami Valley Meals, where she leads a team in transforming donated food into nutritious meals for those facing food insecurity. Under her leadership, MVM is set to donate over 1 million meals by its 5th anniversary in 2025 and has earned accolades including the BBB Torch Award. Amanda holds a BA in Telecommunications and an MA in Digital Storytelling from Ball State University. Her career includes a successful tenure at the Victoria Theatre Association, where she advanced to General Manager of the Food and Beverage Department, refining her leadership and management skills. Deeply committed to her community, Amanda graduated from the 2023 City of Dayton Neighborhood Leadership Institute and is active in initiatives like the Montgomery County Food Equity Coalition. Amanda’s supportive family and team inspire her, and she is passionate about cultural engagement, travel, and making Dayton brighter for all.


Adrienne Draper
Montgomery County Treasurer’s Office/Englewood City Council (Posthumously)

Adrienne was employed at Montgomery County Treasurers Office and Bella Sorella Pizza. She was elected to Englewood City Council in 2019 and served until her death. She was previously employed at Sinclair College and Englewood Tim Horton’s.

Adrienne graduated from Northmont High School in 2016, where she participated in DECA, achieving Top 10 finalist placement at ICDC Nashville 2016. She attended Sinclair College and was a student ambassador, and continued her education commencing with a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Wright State University in April, 2024, where she served on the WSU President’s Student Advisory Panel.

 

Jessica Galloway

Visionary Home Solutions

 

Donnica Hawes-Saunders

The Averity Group

Donnica Hawes-Saunders is the Founder and CEO of The Averity Group, a full-service, solution-oriented public affairs firm that helps organizations transform their reputation at the intersection of communications, social impact, and public policy. In 2023, The Averity Group was named one of the top reputation management agencies in the U.S. by Design Rush. Donnica has been awarded the Yahoo Finance EMpower 100 Global Future Leaders & Top 20 Highest Achieving Changemakers for her strategy, execution, and advocacy in diversity, equity, and inclusion and the PRISM International Diversity Impact Award for creating and institutionalizing HBCU programming in global organizations. Donnica holds a J. D. from the University of Dayton School of Law, and received a B.A., magna cum laude, in Sociology and Anthropology from Spelman College.

Catherine Hernandez-Hogan

Wright State University

Catherine Hernandez Hogan, Senior Director for Latino Affairs and Community Engagement at Wright State University, has dedicated her career to supporting college students globally through recruitment, admissions, programming and inclusive excellence. During her tenure leading Latino Affairs, she increased the total Latino student population by about 30% from 2022 to 2024 and achieved a historic 16% increase in Latino student retention from 2023 to 2024. She was honored statewide with a 2023 Distinguished Hispanic Ohioan Award from the Ohio Commission on Hispanic/Latino Affairs and regionally as a recipient of the 2024 Leaders in Diversity Awards by the Dayton Business Journal. Catherine serves on the board of the El Puente Learning Center and tirelessly advocates for Latino students, emphasizing that they belong on campus, that they matter, that they have what it takes to succeed, and that by getting their degree, they can impact their families for generations.

Jessica Holderman

Dayton VA Medical Center

Jessica Holderman is a licensed independent social worker currently serving in a healthcare administration role as the Executive Assistant to the Medical Center Director at the Dayton VA Medical Center. She received her Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Cincinnati and her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology, with a minor in Social Work, from Ohio University in Athens, Ohio. She is a member of the American College for Healthcare Executives (ACHE) and the National Association of Social Workers (NASW). Jessica participated in and completed the year long VISN 10 Leadership Development Institute (LDI) in 2017 and the MidCon Administrative Officers Academy in 2021. She currently resides in Beavercreek, Ohio with her husband, Jordan, and her two children, Jack, and Juliet. Outside of work, she enjoys spending her time with her family, being involved and volunteering for her children’s extra-curricular activities and singing with her church praise and worship team.

Beth Hutter

MVH/GS Foundations

Beth Hutter’s career has included a wide range of experience, but her true love is non-profit fundraising. For the past 20 years Beth has focused on fundraising within the Dayton community. Currently serving as Vice President at both the Good Samaritan Foundation and the Miami Valley Hospital Foundation, she is deeply involved in all aspects of fundraising, including major gifts, planned giving, endowment development, and donor stewardship. Her expertise spans campaigns, grants, annual giving, and non-profit finance and operations management. Providing resources for the medical staff, volunteers, patients, and families every day brings meaning to her life, alongside her family. She has also served on various non-profit boards, further enhancing her commitment to community impact. Outside of work, Beth has been happily married to her husband Kurt for 38 years and takes great pride in their three daughters and son-in-law. She cherishes her border collie, Ace, and sweet cat, Zucca

Teresa Macalolooy

Macalogic

Teresa Macalolooy is the founder and CEO of Macalogic, an Economically Disadvantaged Woman Owned Small Business (EDWOSB). Macalogic supports its federal clients in four domains: Software Development; Program Support; Enterprise Architecture; and Compliance. Macalogic IT consulting includes full system and network support for commercial clients. Ms. Macalolooy serves as a mentor to professionals interested in expanding their government careers. Macalogic is a people-centered company with a strong culture of value-added support to the community and our clients. Before starting Macalogic, Ms. Macalolooy spent nearly 30 years serving in a variety of technical, program management, business development, and leadership roles for large, small, and mid-size companies. Ms. Macalolooy earned a bachelor’s degree from Wright State University in 2001, graduating Suma Cum Laude. She is a lifetime member of AFCEA, where she currently serves as the Executive VP and Chair of the Wright Innovative Technology Summit (WITS) conference.

Beverly Martin

VA Center

Dr. Beverly Duffey Martin is a motivational speaker, accomplished musician, song writer, singer, author and pastor. She has been featured on television programs, including TBN, which she has hosted on numerous occasions. She authored an array of plays, poetry and has three albums to her credit. Dr. Bev’s international ministry has earned her numerous awards and recognitions, including being selected to participate in the Business & Professional Women’s Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C.; was keynote speaker for Dept. of Defense (Defense, Finance & Accounting Service); and much more. Dr. Bev fulfilled most of her undergrad academia at Cal State University, completing her last year at Central State University, receiving a B.S. Degree in Education with a Music minor. She earned two master degrees: from IAU in Pastoral Counseling, and the University of Dayton Social Agency Counseling. Dr. Bev received a PhD in Counseling from IAU.  She received a Doctor of Ministry degree from the United Theological Seminary, specializing in Administration of Urban Ministry and Church Development.

Kirsten Mendoza

University of Dayton

Kirsten Mendoza is Associate Professor of English and the Associate Director of the Human Rights Studies Program at the University of Dayton. She received her B.A. from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 2012. A year later she graduated with a Masters in English from Loyola University Chicago. In 2018, she completed her Ph.D. at Vanderbilt University. Her research, which focuses on sixteenth and seventeenth century drama and literature, has been supported with grants from the Huntington Library, the Folger Shakespeare Library, and the American Council of Learned Societies. She has been teaching at the University of Dayton since August 2018. As a professor who educates future high school teachers, she is particularly committed to inspiring her students to understand the work they do in the classroom as a form of empowerment that engages with difficult social justice issues as they strive to create a world that is historically informed, compassionate, and just

Kathryn Mullen

Thomas B. Fordham Foundation

Kathryn Mullen has been with the Thomas B. Fordham Foundation since 2005. As Vice President for Sponsorship and Dayton Initiatives, she oversees the Fordham Foundation’s charter school sponsorship operation, comprised of a portfolio of ten public charter schools in sixteen buildings serving approximately 6,500 Ohio students. Her sponsorship duties include managing the charter school application and contract process, school evaluations, providing customized assistance to schools, managing charter renewals and non-renewals, facilitating school closures, negotiating contracts, consulting, researching policy solutions and sharing information on sponsorship best practices. Kathryn serves on the board of the National Association of Charter School Authorizers (NACSA) and is a regular presenter at NACSA’s annual conference. In Dayton, Kathryn leads the Fordham Foundation’s efforts to work with education, civic, community, and business leaders to strengthen educational opportunities for Dayton area children. Kathryn holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Dayton, and a J.D. from Marquette University Law School.

Meghann Naveau

Brigid’s Path

Meghann Naveau is married to the cute guy she started loving in 2006 and mom to two confident kids. She is a proven marketing and communication practitioner who has worked with nonprofits and businesses across numerous industries to build brands, tell stories, and plan well. Meghann is a graduate of the University of Dayton (Communication) and an avid runner and reader. She is an active lay Marianist and collaborates on numerous faith-related projects that help people better love their neighbors.

Jessica Olsen

Greater Dayton RTA

Jessica Olson is the Director of Communications and Training for the Greater Dayton RTA, recently recognized with a national American Public Transportation Association AdWheel award for the agency’s “Proudly Serving Project” which highlights communities RTA serves through individually designed fixed-route buses. She also received the APTA AdWheel Grand Prize award in 2024 for RTA’s “Caring for Our Community” campaign highlighting good works by employees. She serves as Director of Marketing the Heart of Centerville Washington Twp., a small business association, where she’s assisted in the promotion and execution of large-scale events. She also serves on the marketing committee for the Americana Festival. Olson co-owns JJ’s Boutique, located in Front Street Art Galleries in Dayton, in which she creates artwork utilizing wood windows and dried flowers. She’s a graduate of Wright State University and resides in Centerville with her husband and four children.

Ashley Prichard

Waibel Energy Systems

Ashley Prichard, HR Director, just celebrated her 20-year anniversary at Waibel Energy Systems, Inc. She has held many roles with the company, including administrative, graphic design, and marketing. In her current role, she is passionate about improving the employee experience, creating growth opportunities, and workforce development. She advocates giving back to the communities in which we work and spearheaded a volunteer time off policy that gives associates paid time off to volunteer and support causes that are important to them. She is a member of the 40 under 40 class of 2023. Ashley lives in Springboro, has been married to her husband Zac for 15 years, and has three children: Stella, Savy, and Brooks.

Samantha Redden

Appliance Gallery

Samantha Redden is the Marketing and Community Relations Manager for the Appliance Gallery, podcast host, fitness professional, type 1 diabetes (T1D) advocate, and current Mrs. Ohio American titleholder. Samantha was diagnosed with T1D at the age of nine and has used her own diagnosis to raise awareness and support for others living with the disease. She was named the 2019 Diabetes Female Fitness Influencer of the Year by Myabetic and currently serves on the Southwest Ohio board of directors for Breakthrough T1D. As a fitness professional, Samantha remains committed to health and wellness advocacy. She also hosts “The Samantha Show,” streamed in over 37 countries, where she shares insights on confidence and personal development. Samantha won the title of Mrs. Ohio American in June of 2024 and recently competed at the national Mrs. American pageant in Las Vegas, NV.

 

Carolyn Rice

Montgomery County Board of Commissioners

Carolyn Rice has served as County Commissioner since January 2019 and as County Treasurer from 2007-2018.  Carolyn worked in the private sector for 17 years before entering public service. As Commissioner, Carolyn has focused on issues including early childhood development, homeless solutions, work-based learning, addiction prevention, criminal justice, mental health, sustainability, and resiliency. Carolyn serves as Chair of the Land Bank and on numerous boards including Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce and the County’s Homeless Solutions Policy Board.  She is active with the County Commission Association of Ohio, the National Association of Counties, Rotary Club of Dayton, Dayton Council on World Affairs, and the Dayton Sister City Committee. Carolyn has been recognized by the Ohio Land Bank Association, YWCA of Dayton, NCCJ, Dayton Business Journal, and the Dayton International Peace Museum.  Carolyn graduated from Miami University of Ohio and Wright State University and is married with grown children.

Kellie Schneider

The Foodbank, Inc.

Dr. Kellie Schneider is a scholar and educator with a background in Industrial Engineering. Kellie is the Chief Knowledge Officer at The Foodbank Inc. where she and a team of other magical unicorns work to eliminate hunger and its root causes. Kellie supports the critical infrastructure of The Foodbank including compliance & reporting, warehouse operations, professional development, strategic initiatives, and continuous improvement. While delighted to be recognized, Kellie believes the women we should be watching are the ones she supports, mentors, and works along side of every day.

Denise Swick

Swick Real Estate Group

Denise Swick is a respected real estate leader with over 35 years of experience in the Dayton area and a track record of selling more than 3,500 homes. As the Owner of the Swick Real Estate Group, she expertly helps homeowners through every step of the buying and selling process. In addition, she is the Founder and CEO of Downsize Allies, providing full-service downsizing management to assist clients with transitions to smaller homes or new living situations. Denise’s career is built on a foundation of honesty, integrity, and a commitment to achieving the best possible results for her clients.

Tywauna Wilson

CompuNet Clinical Laboratories

Tywauna Wilson, MBA, MLS (ASCP)CM is an accomplished medical laboratory leader, author of “Some Leaders Wear Lab Coats,” and host of the “eLABorate Topics” podcast. With two decades of progressive medical laboratory and healthcare leadership experience,  she  leverages her clinical expertise to mentor and coach emerging and new leaders. Ms. Wilson is viewed as a leadership innovator in the medical laboratory community and has received several accolades in the past year including: 2023 American Society For Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Mentorship and the 2023 Diversity MBA Media Top 100 Under 500 Emerging Leaders awards. Mrs. Wilson currently holds the position of System Technical Director of Chemistry at CompuNet Clinical Laboratories, here in Dayton, Ohio. In this role, she leverages her clinical expertise to provide strategic planning, standardization, implementation, and collaboration across ten laboratory sites. Tywauna is committed to guiding the next generation of confident, competent laboratory leaders.

• Claudine Bennett, Dayton Metro Library
• Kandise Bobo, Sinclair Community College
• Demarus Crawford-White, NPower Ohio
• Dr. Carmela Daniels, Department of Veterans Affairs
• Jocelin Dean, Dayton Development Coalition
• Amanda DeLotelle, Miami Valley Meals
• Adrienne Draper, (post humorously), Montgomery County Treasurer’s Office and Englewood City Council
• Jessica Galloway, Visionary Home Solution
• Donnica Hawes-Saunders, The Averity Group
• Catherine Hernandez-Hogan, Wright State University
• Jessica Holderman, Dayton VA Medical Center
• Beth Hutter, Miami Valley Hospital/Good Samaritan Hospital Foundations
• Teresa Macalolooy, TM Capture Services, LLC dba Macalogic
• Beverly Martin, Veterans Affairs Center
• Kirsten Mendoza, University of Dayton
• Kathryn Mullen, The Thomas B. Fordham Foundation
• Meghann Naveau, Brigid’s Path
• Jessica Olsen, Greater Dayton RTA/Heart of Centerville
• Ashley Prichard, Waibel Energy Systems
• Samantha Redden, Appliance Gallery and current Mrs. Ohio American titleholder
• Carolyn Rice, Montgomery County Commission
• Kellie Schneider, The Foodbank, Inc.
• Denise Swick, Denise Real Estate Group & Downsize Allies
• Tywauna Wilson, CompuNet Clinical Laboratories

Learn more about all of the honorees at the Better Business Bureau website at the following link: www.bbb.org/local/0322/top25/honorees

A celebration for all of these honorees is planned for October 11, 2025.

Igloo’s Back on The Foundry Rooftop

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The Foundry, located on the sixth floor of the AC Hotel Dayton, is an American gastropub-inspired rooftop restaurant featuring chef-driven cuisine from a wood fire oven. Guests enjoy a warm and inviting dining experience, highlighted by an inventive cocktail program and a notable selection of bourbon, beer, and wine. With stunning views overlooking Day Air Ballpark and downtown Dayton, The Foundry is the perfect spot for an elevated evening out with friends and family.

The Foundry Rooftop has announced it is bringing their rooftop Igloo Experience. This unique dining option allows guests to cozy up in private igloos while taking in breathtaking views of Day Air Ballpark and the Dayton skyline. Guests can savor wood-fired culinary specialties paired with a selection of smoked whiskeys, classic cocktails, and local brews, creating the ultimate winter retreat. Each igloo is equipped with complimentary blankets, adjustable heaters, and ambient lighting to create a warm and festive atmosphere, perfect for gatherings large and small.

 The Igloo Experience is available by reservation:

  • Monday – Thursday: $50 per person (2 guests minimum)

  • Friday – Saturday: $60 per person (4 guests minimum)
    Reservations are available from 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM, with a 2.5-hour time limit per reservation.

The Foundry Rooftop
124 Madison St
Dayton, OH 45402

RESERVATIONS: |
To reserve your igloo, visit The Foundry’s Igloo Reservations

DŌZO Every Wednesday at Tender Mercy

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Located in the back room of Tender Mercy, Dōzo is an elevated sushi experience. The four-course, prix-fixe menu rotates monthly, with curated sake and wine pairings.  The dinner  is $75 per person and available from 5-9pm.

The current menu offerings:

Reservations are required to dine at Dozo. When reserving you’ll be asked to use a credit card to hold your reservation. If a cancellation is made with less than 24 hours notice or you don’t show up for your reservation, your card will be charged $20 per person. You can specify if your party would prefer to sit at the sushi bar or at a table .  Party sizes are limited to 6 or less. Guests must be 13 or older and minors must be accompanied by an adult.

Dōzo in Tender Mercy


607 East 3rd Street
Dayton, OH 45402

937-453-0007
Parking: Street parking, valet

Red Lobster Overhauls Menu After Emerging From Bankruptcy

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Seafood-restaurant chain Red Lobster is looking to make a comeback from bankruptcy with a new menu, a new 35-year-old CEO, and a new way forward.

Damola Adamolekun, the new chief executive of Red Lobster, is taking over a chain in turmoil. And he’s only 35.

“There’s a hole to climb out of, for sure, and that will be the hardest part,” Adamolekun told CNN last Friday in his first on-camera interview as CEO.

The new Red Lobster menu includes nine new items:

  • Lobster Pappardelle
  • Pasta Bacon Wrapped Sea Scallops
  • Lobster Bisque
  • Lemon Basil Mahi
  • Simply Prepared Mahi
  • Parmesan-Crusted Chicken
  • Roasted Asparagus

Red Lobster’s new Lobster Pappardelle

Red Lobster’s revamped menu will be 20% smaller and won’t include the popular $19.99 all-you-can-eat Ultimate Endless Shrimp.

Also returning to the menu one of their more popular items hush puppies. “There was a social media riot over us taking off the hush puppies a few years ago,” CEO Damola Adamolekun told NBC News. “I expect a stampede into our restaurants because we’re bringing back the hush puppies,” he jokingly added.

hush puppies

New to the lunch menu- an endless soup, salad & cheddar bay biscuits combo for $9.99.  Choose from clam chowder or lobster bisque and a house salad, caesar salad or coleslaw.

The new menu comes as the chain’s CEO Damola Adamolekun is rolling out a comeback plan that also includes a revamped look and an advertising campaign aimed at bringing in younger customers.

“We want to make the restaurants more fun,” Adamolekun shared. Diners will soon notice new lighting at the restaurants and new music as part of Adamolekun’s efforts to attract younger customers who might have grown up going to the chain but haven’t been back for some time.

Red Lobster recently emerged from bankruptcy with a $60 million restructuring deal backed by Fortress Investment Group, which involved closing about 100 of its 640 restaurants, leaving 544 Red Lobsters remaining in the U.S. and Canada.

It’s been a tough year for fast-casual and family-style chains. Red Lobster, whose visits decreased nearly 45% year-over-year, joins a growing list of chains that have filed for bankruptcy as a result of weakening sales due to higher prices, inflation, high-interest rates, and the need for strategic realignment to meet shifting consumer habits.

However, there is good news for disappointed shrimp lovers. The new CEO did hear customers complaining about the tartar sauce recipe and promised a new, “better” one is coming soon.

 

Aldi Thanksgiving Basket Offers A Meal For 10 For $47

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Pastrami Subs Now at Jersey Mike’s

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This week, Jersey Mike’s added two new hot subs, the Classic Pastrami and Chipotle Pastrami, to its nationwide menu, for a limited time.

The Classic Pastrami sub features layers of sliced pastrami, grilled onions, Swiss cheese, pickles, and spicy mustard.

 

The Chipotle Pastrami sandwich has layers of sliced pastrami, grilled onions, Swiss cheese, and chipotle mayo.

To find the nearest Jersey Mike’s, please click here.

Where To Order Your Holiday Desserts

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In general, pie reigns supreme as a Thanksgiving dessert. While some families have their nice selections of pie servings, tradition says apple, pumpkin pie, and a southern pecan pie are the go-tos, typically made with a buttery pastry pie crust. We’ll keep adding to this list as we hear of more options.
Baker Benji’s
700 Troy Street, DaytonYou must have your order placed before Saturday 11/23 at 2pm. Pre-order in person, message us or phone! Call or text 937.228.4151 to order or for any questions!

Boosalis Baking 
 175 E Alex Bell Rd #280, Centerville |  (937) 424-0636

Cake, Hope & Love
1490 N Fairfield Rd, Ste B, Beavercreek
937-912-9253

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ghostlight Coffee
Thanksgiving Pie pre-orders now open. Pre-Orders accepted until Noon on 11/23.

Pick-Up orders:
Tuesday, Nov. 26, 1-6pm -OR- Wednesday, Nov. 27, 1-8pm
Be sure to select your preferred date for pick-up.

PIE PICK-UP LOCATION:
GATHER by Ghostlight in the historic Dayton Arcade 37 W. 4th Street

 

Mehaffies Pies

3013 Linden Ave, Dayton | 937-253-1163

Pre-order today – these are only available November 18th through the 29th!

Nothing Bundt Cakes

9632 N Springboro Pike, Miamisburg | (937) 505-8484

2418 Esquire Dr #4, Beavercreek |(937) 530-4141

Partial to Pie
200 Shroyer Rd., Dayton

Is already completely booked up for Thanksgiving orders

Purely Sweet Bakery

3375 Dayton-Xenia Rd, Beavercreek | 937-705-6605
You will be able to place your orders via Google Form online or phone call.

You may place orders now until 11/20/24 at 2pm.
You may place orders online, over the phone, or in-person. The pick-up times for Thanksgiving Orders will be Tuesday, 11/26 from 2pm-6pm, and Wednesday, 11/27 from 12pm-4pm.

Simply Decadent

137 West Franklin Street, Bellbrook | 937-310-1305

This year’s exclusive offerings include premium chesse cakes, cookie platters, cakes, and more!

The Neighborhood Nest – a dedicated gluten-free bakery
313 W. Main St., Fairborn |937-902-3515

 

Village Family Restaurant
144 S Main St, Waynesville |513-897-8835

Young’s Jersey Dairy
6880 Springfield Xenia Rd, Yellow Springs | 937-325-0629
Our homemade pies are the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving menu!
Place your order here.

Where to Get the Best Carrot Cake?
Kettering Medical Center Bakery

New Concept by the El Toro Family Now Open

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Toasted Brunch Bar + Cafe, the newest  concept created by owners of El Toro, opens there doors today for a soft opening in the space formerly occupied by Melt Bar & Grilled at the Mall at Fairfield Commons in Beavercreek.

Enrique Alvarez, El Toro’s district manager shared that “as a local family we want to stay in the area, so we continue to create new restaurant concepts to allow our family to have new opportunities.
Last year they added El Toro Express, near the Dayton Mall and mentioned they are currently looking at a potential 2nd location in Kettering. After 20+ years in the business, with Toasted I might actually get to see my kids before they go to bed at night.”

They’ve totally remodeled the 5000 square foot interior space, giving it a light and bright atmosphere.  They’ve used their travels abroad to bring back menu ideas and flavors they are not found on local menu’s and look forward to sharing these items with the public.

Alvarez’s favorite menu items include:

Loaded Bagel Sandwich – over easy egg, sausage, bacon, hash brown toasted with may and a side of mixed greens with house vinaigrette or home fries

The Bavarian – Artisan sourdough bread, bratwurst, breakfast sausage, mozzarella cheese, carmelized onion, mixed greens, toasted mayo and a side.

Other tasty menu items include:

Strawberry + Basil Toast, Shakshuka, Chilaqueiles and the Pancake Taco.  Breakfast item are served daily til 3pm,

Then there is a menu of sandwiches, soups and salads to choose from the rest of the day. Toasted has a full bar and offers a machu pichu blend of coffee, a specialty espresso drink menu, fresh juices and seasonal cocktails.

All breads and pastries, cookies and scones  are made from scratch, in house daily You don’t have to dine there to pick up pastries, which range from $4-8. They’ve hired about 20 employees and are still looking to add a couple of baristas and servers to their crew.

A grand opening is scheduled for Nov 22nd, with details to come. The restaurant seats about 200 with additional seating on the patio.

Toasted Brunch Bar + Cafe
2733 Fairfield Commons Unit C
Beavercreek, OH 45431
(937) 702-9553
Open daily
7am-7pm
(hours may change after soft opening)

Learn Japanese This Winter

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Welcome to SAKURA JUKU!

Do you love Anime? Japanese food? Have you started learning Japanese but need some help? Sakura Juku is bringing their Cincinnati based school to Beavercreek this winter. They focus on building a strong foundation in Japanese grammar and vocabulary, then use these skills for conversation and engaging class activities that will take your Japanese to the next level. But…SAKURA JUKU is more than just a language school. This is a place that provides opportunities to learn about and experience Japanese culture.

The class will run from January 22 – April 16, 2025 (12 weeks / 15 Hours)
Wednesday 6:00pm – 7:15pm (75 mins)
Holiday Inn Dayton/Fairborn I-675, 2800 Presidential Dr, Fairborn, OH 45324
The class costs $360 and is forAges 16+
Registration opens Nov 10th.

This course is designed for students who have little or no background in Japanese. Students are expected to do weekly homework assignments. The topics to be covered in this course include but are not limited to:

  • Hiragana (Japanese Alphabet: Reading & Writing)
  • Daily Greetings
  • Classroom Expressions
  • Self Introduction (Name / Occupation / Nationality, etc.)
  • Numbers
  • Time
  • X は Yです (X is Y structure.)
  • Question Sentences
  • Particle「の」
  • Japanese Pronunciation / Pitch Accent
  • This/That/Here/There
  • Simple Shopping Expressions

 

Required Books (Purchased separately by student – not included in the course fee):

  • GENKI: An Integrated Course in Elementary Japanese Vol.1, 3rd edition (Textbook) ISBN: 978-4-7890-1730-5
  • GENKI: An Integrated Course in Elementary Japanese Vol.1, 3rd edition (Workbook) ISBN: 978-4-7890-1731-2

 

Instructor Tsuzuki Sensei

Tsuzuki sensei was born and raised in Japan. She has been teaching Japanese at several universities since she graduated from WSU with a MA in English (TESOL), and has experience teaching students from 5 to 60 years old. She loves teaching and enjoys every minute of it! Tsuzuki-sensei enjoys good food, J-Pop, K-Dramas, shopping and laughing (especially with Japanese comedy shows). She also likes playing piano and reading books in her spare time. However, recently she feels that puzzle games suck up her precious time too much but she cannot quit!

Freedom Whiskey & TJ Chumps Partner For Veterans Day!

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TJ Chumps is partnering with Freedom Whiskey Co. for a week-long event from November 4th to 11th, dedicated to supporting local veterans. During this special event, all five TJ Chumps locations will feature an exclusive lineup of Freedom Whiskey cocktails, with $1 from every drink purchased going directly to local veteran charities.

Proceeds from this initiative will support two impactful organizations: Save A Warrior (SAW), which provides critical mental health resources and support to veterans, and Hunters Helping Heroes, an organization dedicated to providing outdoor recreational opportunities for veterans. Both organizations are committed to improving the lives of our veterans and will directly benefit from every cocktail enjoyed during this event.

Founded by Marines in Afghanistan, Freedom Whiskey Co. has a mission that goes beyond crafting high-quality bourbon. The company is dedicated to honoring America’s heritage and supporting those who serve. By employing veterans and contributing to veteran-focused charities, Freedom Whiskey Co. is a natural partner for TJ Chumps, whose commitment to community runs deep.

Throughout the week, patrons can enjoy a unique selection of Freedom Whiskey cocktails crafted by TJ Chumps, including:

  • Freedom Old Fashioned – Featuring Freedom Whiskey, Angostura bitters, simple syrup, garnished with an orange and cherry.

  • Blackberry Sour – A refreshing blend of Freedom Whiskey, sour mix, blackberry syrup, and a lemon garnish.

  • Bald Eagle Tears – A bold mix of Freedom Whiskey, Amaretto, and Starry, topped with a cherry.

  • Freedom & Pepsi – A simple and satisfying combination of Freedom Whiskey and Pepsi.

Each cocktail ordered not only offers a great tasting experience but also makes a direct impact, with $1 from every drink going to support Save A Warrior and Hunters Helping Heroes.

Freedom Whiskey Co. was born from the experiences of Marines in Afghanistan and is committed to supporting veterans through employment and charitable contributions. Their high-quality bourbon is crafted with the spirit of freedom and dedication to honoring those who serve.

Raise a glass with TJ Chumps and Freedom Whiskey Co. from November 4-11 to enjoy great drinks while supporting a worthy cause. Join us in making a difference, one drink at a time.

Five Guys Launches Candy Cane Crunch Shake

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This season, Five Guys introduces the limited-time Candy Cane Crunch mix-in—bringing not just one new holiday shake to the menu but hundreds. By mixing and matching flavors, customers can create over 500 milkshake combinations with the Candy Cane Crunch mix-in. Make your favorite shake a holiday shake!

“We are very excited about this new mix-in. The flavor is great on its own but customization is also important to us. We don’t want customers to feel like they have to try Candy Cane Crunch by itself or that there is only one way to enjoy it. There isn’t! The sky is the limit…from chocolate to bacon and everything in between,” said Five Guys CEO and Founder, Jerry Murrell.

The Candy Cane Crunch mix-in has a strong peppermint flavor and brings a delightful crunch to your milkshake experience. Real candy cane pieces are added to the shake, not syrup or extract. Each shake is also topped with whipped cream and sprinkled with Candy Cane for a festive flare.

Only available in-store or on the Five Guys website and mobile app through December 31, at participating locations while supplies last.

Horror-Comedy Crust Coming to VOD Soon

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Jacob Stuart, Executive Producer of the horror-comedy Crust, is excited to announce the film’s limited release in select theaters across the United States. Starring Sean Whalen as a once-famous, down-on-his-luck child actor turned laundromat owner, Crust follows his character’s strange journey as he finds unexpected vengeance when a pile of abandoned socks transforms into a cute, yet murderous creature.

Alongside Whalen, the film features the talents of Alan Ruck (Succession, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off) and Daniel Roebuck (The Fugitive, The Devil’s Rejects), adding star power to this unique monster story. Recently featured in Deadline and other publications, Crust is set to hit VOD on November 12th, with Blu-ray and DVD pre-orders available now on Amazon.

Stuart will be the guest speaker at FilmDayton’s Connections on November 20th at 7pm, where he’ll delve into the critical role of pitch decks and TV Bibles in today’s entertainment industry—a must-have for any project aiming to captivate investors and audiences alike.  Attendence is free for members, $5 for all else.

 

 

Yellow Springs Smokehouse Pop Up This Weekend

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Restaurateur Brian Rainey closed down the Calypso Grill 2 weeks ago, which he originally opened in 2018.  ”I feel the Calypso concept has run its course and it’s time to bring something new to the people,” Rainey said.  So now his new concept, Yellow Springs Smokehouse, will focus on smoked meats like brisket, puller pork, trout, tofu and keeping the jerk chicken from Calypso on the menu.
The Smokehouse be open for drive-thru carryout this Friday at Saturday 4pm to 8pm!  The restaurant is expected to open full-time this spring. In the meantime, Rainey is planning to do a “soft opening winter” with weekend pop-ups starting this weekend for pre-orders and carryout only.
Here is the link to their online ordering menu!

Yellow Springs Smokehouse

1535 Xenia Ave
Yellow Springs, OH 45387

937-767-9000

Grand Opening of Wright Dunbar Cigars Friday

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Wright Dunbar neighbors Jeff Jackson and Dallas Webster have talked about opening a cigar bar for a while and this Friday their dreams become a reality as the doors will open to Wright Dunbar Cigars on West Third Street.

Owners Dallas Webster & Jeff Jackson

We appreciate that they took some time to answer our questions and share them with you here:

Why a cigar bar?

DW:  Why Not?   But Seriously, our research has shown that the cigar sales growth rates are 4% to 8% over the next 5 years.  But when you factor in memberships, private events, pairing events and exclusive experiences, the growth rate increases 6% to 10% over the next 5 years, leveling out at about 7% for 10 years.
JJ:  I have been a cigar smoker for about 9 years now and in the culture for the last 4 or 5. This business fits, not only my interests, but my lifestyle. I have learned to understand that if you love what you do, it’s never really “work.” When I decided to leave corporate employment behind, over 15 years ago, I never wanted to “work” again, and this is the next step in that journey.
 
What can people expect when they visit?
JJ: Our patrons and members can expect an elevated experience at Wright Dunbar Cigars. We want you to feel like you have been transported to a destination unique all in itself. Classy, comfortable, sophisticated, familiar, entertaining, and enjoyable. We welcome all cigar smokers from first timers, looking how to engage, to afficionados with a mature palette who knows what they want and expect.
DW:  When people come to Wright Dunbar Cigars, they can expect a unique experience.  When creating our space we collaborated with uCreative in Miamisburg Oh, to create a unique design using earth tones and natural finishes.  Our General Contractor Terence Wright of Tri-Tech in Centerville Oh,  extended our design with unique lighting, custom wood finishes and implementation of our concept.  We have exposed brick surfaces, wood flooring, leather seating and a state of the art smoke removal system.
What does membership mean, how much and what is included?
DW: We are currently in our innaugral membership period, with memberships ranging from $1000 to $1500.  Of course membership has it privileges and include – a humidor locker for cigar storage, discounts on cigars, accessories, events and private rental.  We have an exclusive member VIP area on the 2nd floor with secret and private entrances.  We encourage everyone to take advantage of our inagural membership drive before it ends.

JJ: Membership means everything! The best features of our lounge revolves around members benefit’s. We will certainly reward our inaugral members; those who took “the leap of faith” and made a commitment to us! They will be who we will remember,  value, and honor as our business grows and thrives.

Can people rent out the space for private events?

DW: Yes, we will have a 2 tier event rental with members having reduced rental rates.  Our theater room can be configured as a conference room for corporate offsite meetings.  
Anything else you’d like to share?
DW:  When creating our space, upon entering, we wanted our guest to say, “Am I in Dayton”.  and our answer is “Yes you are”.  Jeff and I have an ongoing fun debate where I say we have the best Cigar lounge in the State of Ohio… LOL.   but seriously we have made a substantial investment and it’s for our members and guest.  On Weekends we plan to offer valet parking, escort by staff to our cigar humidors, assistance with cigar selection, and even cutting and lighting should our customers want that.
JJ: We want people to explore something they may not have experienced here in Dayton, OH. We are very fortunate to be in an incredibly unique space, designed for a great smoking experience. We are in a historically valuable part of town that is benefiting from a surging renaissance. We want people all over the Miami Valley to experience the “big city” right here in our hometown.
Wright Dunbar Cigar Shoppe & Lounge
1153 West 3rd Street,
Dayton, OH, 45402
Hours:
Tuesday-Thursday  2p – 9p
Friday-Saturday 12p -10p
Sunday 12p-6p



Branch & Bone’s 2nd Annual Chili Cook Off

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Do you have what it takes to be crowned the Chili Champion at Branch & Bone’s 2nd Annual Chili Cook Off? On Sunday November 17th at 1pm they  will kickoff their Chili Competition.
Winners will be decided at 4pm. Last year had some bangers, lets see if it can be topped this year. Signups are live at this link.
Prize for  1st Place & Most Unique Chili
Free to enter (limited to the first 15 that register) and free to attend and vote. Judging for the main competition will be crowd favorite. Everyone in attendance will get a ticket to choose their favorite. Most Unique will be picked by a panel of 3 judges
Branch & Bone will provide standard toppings/fixins. If entered into the competion you bring a crock pot of your Chili, if you have specialty toppings feel free to bring those. Please leave your contact info when you sign up.
Good times and delicious chili wll be had by all!
BRANCH & BONE ARTISAN ALES, LLC
905 Wayne Ave
Dayton, OH 45410 

937-723-7608

OPEN HOURS:

Tues- Thurs  4PM – 10PM

Fri & Sat 12PM – 11PM

Sun 12PM – 8PM