Community

Dayton Dines by Design: Art, Design, and Philanthropy Unite

June 10, 2025 By LIbby Ballengee

Prepare to be inspired: the inaugural Dayton Dines by Design is set to take center stage on June 25–26, 2025, bringing dazzling design, culinary elegance, and creative spirit to the heart of Dayton. Hosted in support of the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance (DPAA), this two-day fundraising celebration invites guests into a world of breathtaking tablescapes, curated by some of the region’s most talented designers, florists, artists, and design boutiques.

Dayton Dines by Design supports the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance. Photo of Keitaro Harada by the DPAA (Contributed)

Dayton Dines by Design will feature a stunning gallery of immersive tablescape installations, each a one-of-a-kind artistic vision, transforming traditional dining into a visual experience. This elegant affair begins with a festive Cocktail Reception on Wednesday, June 25, followed by an inspired Luncheon Event on Thursday, June 26. Tickets are sold separately for both events.

At the heart of the luncheon is keynote speaker Corey Damen Jenkins, a nationally acclaimed interior designer known for his bold, sophisticated work. Named to the prestigious AD100 and Elle Décor A-List, Jenkins has been featured in House Beautiful, Traditional Home, and his celebrated book Design Remix. His keynote promises to be as dynamic and stylish as his interiors.

Proceeds from Dayton Dines by Design will directly support DPAA’s education programs in ballet, opera, and orchestra—helping cultivate the next generation of performers and arts lovers throughout the region.

The Dayton Ballet & Dayton Opera are supported by Dayton Dines By Design proceeds.

“This event is about more than beautiful tables—it’s a celebration of creativity and community,” said Allyson Danis, Committee Chair “By supporting Dayton Dines by Design, you’re also supporting the young musicians, dancers, and vocalists who will shape our cultural future.”

Whether you’re a design enthusiast, a patron of the arts, or simply looking for a one-of-a-kind experience, Dayton Dines by Design invites you to take a seat at the table—and be part of something beautiful.

HOW TO GO?
Cocktail Party & Tour of the Tables | Wednesday, June 25, 2025 | 5pm to 7pm

Luncheon & Keynote Presentation | Thursday, June 26, 2025 | 10:30am to 2pm

Location for both events: Carillon Historical Park, 1000 Carillon Blvd, Dayton, OH 45409

Tickets & More Information: https://daytonperformingarts.org/dayton-dines/

Dayton at Work and Play: Dayton Humane & Co

June 9, 2025 By Bill Franz

Visit to Dayton Humane & Co. – A Resale Boutique (Crosspointe Shopping Center, Centerville).

Brian Weltge has been the Humane Society’s president for more than 20 years and I’ve enjoyed seeing all of the new things he’s done with the organization, things like opening a Veterinary Hospital or starting the MeowZa Cat Boutique at the Dayton Mall. I’ve been looking forward to checking out their new Resale Boutique.

Stephanie showed me around. She said they’ve been researching this move for more than a year. When they got this space – a former Marshall’s store – they saw they could create something unlike most thrift stores. With this layout you can see everything that’s currently available.

I asked one of the shoppers what she thought of the store. “I found a nice top for $4 and a word game for only $2. I’m hoping I can get my grandkids to try the game instead of doing everything on their phones. I like the way they’ve laid things out here so you can find everything. I’ll be back.”

I checked out their artwork and found a very broad range of price points – from a $20 framed print to a large piece for $500. I thought $500 was high for a thrift store until I checked out the artist online. Paintings by Michael Nisperos regularly sell for $2,000 and more.

I love the way they’re promoting the store “It’s more than just shopping – every purchase supports the lifesaving work of the Humane Society of Greater Dayton, a no-kill animal welfare organization.”

At my stage of life I’m donating a lot more items than I’m buying. I was glad to see that they offer a pickup service if you have large items to donate. Just email them at [email protected] The store is open 10 to 6 Wednesday through Friday, 11 to 7 Saturday and 12 to 4 Sunday.

River Trails History Tour by Bycycle

June 9, 2025 By Dayton937

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CycleNuts Selfie Tours tie together fun, interesting, scenic, historic, tasty, and refreshing points of interest along a bikeway focused tour route where you ride at your pace and your pleasure. You are the tour boss. You pick the date and time – ticket is good for any day or time – dates/times listed only as a guideline to give you an idea of how long tour normally takes.

With these smart-guided bikeway cycling adventures you bring the bike and smart phone, and CycleNuts provides the Smart Guide. The Smart Guide gives you voice and visual turn-by-turn instructions along an expertly designed and tested tour route.

Do the tour solo or bring along your crew. 1 ticket = fun for all! Easily stop anywhere along the way to visit attractions or refreshments and the Smart Guide will continue the route from wherever you are when you are ready to roll.

The Miami Valley region that Dayton is located in has trails! 350 miles of bike trails – “the nations largest paved trail network“. This tour certainly is not going to try to cover all of it in one day, but will cover several miles of the best of it. Starting in the outlying countryside the tour route will follow alongside the Great Miami River into downtown Dayton’s Riverscape Metropark. Here, you can see one of the world’s largest water fountains, Five Rivers Fountain of Lights. There is also a concession stand and restrooms.

Next stop on the tour is the national monument to the Wright brothers – Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park. The air conditioned museum and historical center, Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center, ties together the Wright brothers ingenious contributions to the world of transportation, from printing to bicycles to airplanes. “Visitors can view the park film, Wright Brothers On Great White Wings, in the auditorium. From there, guests can explore the interpretive exhibits and displays on the first floor which give more insight into the lives and aviation journey of Dayton’s most famous figures, Wilbur and Orville Wright“.

Last stop is the massive National Museum of the US Air Force – “the world’s largest military aviation museum. With free admission and parking, the museum features more than 350 aerospace vehicles and missiles and thousands of artifacts amid more than 19 acres of indoor exhibit space“.

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Comprised mostly of river trails, the 37 mile tour route is moderately level except for one dam to cross over, several climbs out of shallow river beds, and across gently rolling terrain. The route is 92% bikeway, and comes with CycleNuts’ 50% downhill guarantee. If your bike has gears, you will probably use them to the full extent crossing over the dam and to a lesser degree in a couple of spots along the route. All bikes are appropriate for this smart-guided tour – even a single speed bike as long as you do not mind walking your bike up the spots mentioned. Bring yours or rent one in the Dayton area (see confirmation information for listings). Sweating is optional. The route is shaded about 75% of the way. You set your own pace, starting time and touring agenda with CycleNuts’ expert smart-guided cycle tour pattern.

Points of interest: Great Miami River Recreational Trail, Great Miami River, Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park (free admission)- dedicated to the birthplace of aviation and the brothers Orville and Wilbur Wright, Riverscape Park – Five Rivers Fountain of Lights, Mad River Trail, Mad River, downtown Dayton, and National Museum of the US Air Force (free admission). There is a food concession area inside of the National Museum of the US Air Force. Additional nearby points of interest: Wright Brothers National Museum, and America’s Packard Museum. Easily, anywhere along the way, the route can be detoured to nearby points of interest.

HERE’S THE PLAN: You bring the bike. CycleNuts provides the smart-tour guide! Via email you receive an expertly designed and tested tour route. Simply click on the emailed link and follow the expertly designed Selfie Tour route using your smart phone as your personal smart-tour guide for the Voice and Map guided turn-by-turn instructions.

From your location simply click on link 1 provided by CycleNuts (using your cell phone) and follow the Google Maps directions to the starting spot;
Unload your bike (if you transported it to the starting spot), or if you rode your bike to the starting spot then you are good to go;
and then click on link 2 provided by CycleNuts and begin the tour (for more complex tours there may also be a link 3 or 4 to click on along the way as well as additional instructions).

WHERE TO RENT A BIKE: See your ticket purchase confirmation information for local bike rental listings.

ARE YOU READY TO ROLL? GREAT… LET’S HIT THE TRAILS!

GET YOUR TICKET TODAY! – take note that the tour starting and ending times on the ticket are only a general guideline to give you an idea of how much time the tour may take at the minimum. Your time in the saddle, on the trail, and starting times are your call – it is your tour. One ticket equals fun for all! Bring as many people as you wish on your tour. Ticket purchase is for the CycleNuts Selfie Smart-guided route only and run $12.39 on eventbrite. Attractions, lodgings, food, bike rental, etcetera are not included in the ticket purchase. Tours are available Sat & Sun at 11am through September

DGMC’s ‘The Power of Love’ celebrates Pride Month.

June 7, 2025 By Joshua Stucky

The Dayton Gay Men’s Chorus is presenting their Pride Concert titled, “The Power of Love!” The June concert is always important because it is the DGMC’s way to show excitement and appreciation of Pride Month. The DGMC felt it would be important to focus on “The Power of Love” to push back against some of the negativity that has unfortunately become so strong in our country and world.

The concert will daringly focus on all aspects of love, including romantic love, brotherly love, love of country, and love for our community. All of this through the strong, solid performances, people have come to love about the DGMC.

The concert will be a 1st as they perform at the Roger Glass Center for the Arts. The space in the Glass being utilized is actually designed for vocal performance. Surely, this will only enhance an already dynamic chorus.

Tickets can be purchased at the door or at the website: https://www.daytongaymenschorus.org/

Performances are on Saturday, June 14. There are two shows, 2 pm and 8 pm.

Don’t miss the show, which features favorites like “Love Shack,” “Defying Gravity,” and “Wannabe” as well as some lesser known pieces that are sure to get an emotional response from the crowd. See you at the Glass!

Heartsiq’s Third Annual “Mixtape” Festival is this Saturday with Two Stages, Vendors, and Art at The Brightside

June 5, 2025 By Dayton937

Heartsiq is a queer focused arts and entertainment group based in Dayton, OH that presents monthly curated live music and visual arts events around town, monthly “Queeraoke” events at The Oregon Express, and other queer focused events throughout the year.

On June 7th, they’re presenting their 3rd Annual Mixtape Festival featuring queer artists, live musicians, DJs, MCs, vendors, and more on multiple stages at The Brightside Music and Events Venue.

“We’ve changed the game this year for Pride!” Kacie Clover, Heartsiq Partner said. “Get ready for a local vendors market, a DJ rave room with go-go dancers, a talk show, local acts, and so much more!”

Heartsiq has grown over the last three years from a monthly showcase to their third annual Mixtape Festival over Pride weekend with dozens of events at multiple venues every year.

“We need Pride now more than ever. Queer joy is important. Queer joy is necessary. Queer joy is revolutionary” Ky Heart, Founder and Partner said. “We’re here and we’re not going anywhere. This festival is going to be Heartsiq like you’ve never seen it before! ”

If you’re interested in attending Heartsiq’s Mixtape Festival or other events, organizers say these events are for everyone.

“The definition of queer people and queer identities is always growing,” Clover said. “Heartsiq is a home for every single person.” She continued “Hosting Heartsiq has been an incredibly rewarding experience. The opportunity to promote LGBTQ artists, as well as spread queer joy has been a dream,” Heart said.

Attendees can get more information and tickets at heartsiq.com

How To Go?

Saturday, June 7, 2025

Doors 5pm

All ages – must have 21+ ID to drink alcohol

Tickets:

Single ticket – $12 in advance

5 Ticket Pack – $50 in Advance

At the door ticket – $15

Venue:

The Brightside Music and Events Venue

905 E. 3rd St. Dayton, OH 45402

https://www.thebrightsidedayton.com/

Heartsiq’s 3rd Annual Mixtape Festival – June 7th

Schedule:

Side A – Ballroom Stage

6pm to 1am

DJ FEZ @boostohhs

DJ Sexbox @dylanfauxreal

Illwin @_illwin

Side B – Bar Stage

Starting at 9pm

Leggy @leggyband

Trade Like Qualities @trade_like_qualities

Izzie Morrow @izziemikael

Burlesque Dancers

Ophelia Plenty @defective.deity

Thrillda Swinton @thrilldaswinton

Indica Blows @cultofindica

Eris Minx @erisminx

Rude Burlesque @rudeburlesque

Ethera @ethera___

Magnus Lovesong @magnuslovesong

Zinnia Butterfly @zinnia.butterfly.burlesque

Kiara The Bearded Beauty @kiara_thebeardedbeauty

Cinnamon Spell @catinth3dark

Glad Ala Jara @guad.ala.jara

Moon Lyte @moon.lyte.dancer

Gertrude The Cherry @gertrudethecherry

Delusiona Grandeur @ballerinadentata

Elixir The Enigma @elixirtheenigma

Roadtrip: Cincinnati Zoo After Dark

June 4, 2025 By Dayton937

Ever wondered what the Cincinnati Zoo is like after hours? The gates are shut, the lights are down, and everyone has gone home for the day. It’s time to discover the Zoo after dark!

A truly one-of-a-kind experience, these overnights make a great date night, friend group outing, or adult adventure (over 21 only)!

An interactive social hour will start the night with two drink tickets, light bites, strange zoo games, and a visit from a unique animal. Then, we will break out into small tour groups led by Zoo Educators to traverse through Africa. On our Zoo safari, we will go behind the scenes of Hippo Cove and uncover the secrets of our world-famous bloat. We’ll finish up our night at our Twiga Tents, gathered around a roaring campfire roasting s’mores. Then, this unique adventure ends with a relaxing night in our safari tents on cozy cots and waking up to breakfast overlooking Giraffe Ridge. And it doesn’t end there! One last special animal guest will join us in the morning to say goodbye.

June 28, July 19, August 9 & September 6, 2025

Time: 6:00pm-9:00am

Regular Price:$200.00

Member Price:$190.00

Ohio’s Recreational Cannabis Purchase Limits Increased

June 4, 2025 By Guest Contributor

Under the new rules, those 21 and older will be allowed to purchase up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis flower per day, a notable increase from the previous limit of 2.5 ounces every nine days. The limit for non-flower products—such as edibles, tinctures, and vape cartridges—will be set at 15,000 milligrams of total THC per day. For context, a 500 mg vape and a 100 mg pack of gummies would count as 600 mg toward this cap.

The new limits apply only to recreational users. Medical marijuana patients will still follow the state’s 90-day supply framework, and dispensaries are required to prioritize product availability for these patients.

The Division clarified that while dispensaries are permitted to sell up to the new maximum amounts, they are not obligated to do so. Retailers must also ensure their inventory systems properly track THC content in accordance with state reporting requirements, and any procedural changes must be logged through the DCC’s eLicense portal.

Ohio legalized recreational cannabis in 2023, with the market officially launching in August 2024. Since then, the state has generated around $750 million in sales across over 10 million transactions.

The post Ohio’s Recreational Cannabis Purchase Limits to Increase appeared first on The Marijuana Herald.

Q+ Card Supports Area LGBTQ+ Youth Center

June 3, 2025 By Lisa Grigsby

Q+ Youth Center in Dayton is run by a group of volunteers dedicated to providing a safe and inclusive space for Queer Youth to thrive.

Formed in response to the continued rise of youth suicides, specifically amongst queer and trans individuals, the Q+ Youth Center board seeks to create more than a building. The members of the board and volunteers from the community are working towards impactful and lasting change in Ohio that leads to the success and brilliance of our youth.

The Q+ Youth Center Project understands the importance of providing a safe space for 7th-12th grade students who identify as LGBTQIA+. Their mission is to empower, support, and mentor these young individuals by creating an environment where they can freely express themselves without fear of judgment or discrimination.

“I hope no youth has to feel alone like I did while coming into my own being. If we can make a safe space for their growth, it will only make the future brighter. That’s worth supporting.” Michael Green, Digital Marketing Manager, Dayton Contemporary Dance Company

The center’s goal is to fund youth events, mentor programs, and ultimately a brick and mortar facility with a focus on the young minds in the greater Gem city region.

You can help support them by purchasing their merchant card good at 16 local restaurant/stores. You’ll enjoy discounts to all of your favorite Q+ supporting businesses! Q+ Discount Card for 2025-2026!! For a $25 donation, you will get discounts ALL YEAR LONG. All donations are matched by the Kawai Family Foundation.

Businesses include: Meadowlark Wheat Penny Old Scratch Pizza Yellow Cab Tavern Michael’s Salon Barrel House Lily’s Blind Bob’s Salt Block Little Fish Brewing Baker Benji Ghostlight Coffee Maraluna Pink Moon Goods Sueno and Power Plant. Printing for the card was donated by Smales Pretzels.

Want to volunteer? The Q+ Center relies on the kindness of dedicated volunteers. To become a part of the team, fill out the form and one of their core group of volunteers will be in touch with the next opportunity to make a change for our youth.

Passport to MetroParks- For A Taste of What’s Happening All Summer

May 30, 2025 By Dayton937

Bring your family to RiverScape MetroPark for Passport to MetroParks tonight! Representatives from the Dayton Celtic Festival, Hispanic Heritage Festival and Dayton African American Cultural Festival will be on site with activities, information about the festivals and more.

Throughout the event, guests can visit more than a dozen booths hosting games and activities that feature the upcoming festivals and a variety of the recreation, education, conservation and volunteer programs Five Rivers MetroParks offers. Activities include:

Meet MetroParks’ rangers and live wildlife ambassadors. Learn more about upcoming programs, events and things to do in each MetroPark and at the 2nd Street Market. Ask MetroParks staff and volunteer experts questions about nature, recreation activities, youth programs and more.

Participants will earn a stamp in their event passport for each activity they complete. Those who earn one stamp in each of five categories will be entered to win prizes including a Huffy bike and scooters, and MetroParks program vouchers.

From 7:30 to 9 p.m., enjoy local funk fusion band Freakquency on the main stage under the RiverScape pavilion.

Grab a bite from Christian Bros Meat Company, El Meson, McNasty’s, Sweet P’s Handcrafted Ice Pops and Yummy Gyro.

2025 Class of Dayton Walk of Fame Revealed

May 29, 2025 By Dayton937

In a city known for taking flight, five more legendary names are landing in history. For nearly 30 years, the Dayton Region Walk of Fame has etched the names of inventors, artists, civic leaders, and cultural icons into the sidewalks of Dayton’s historic Wright-Dunbar District. Now, five new names are joining the legacy.

2025 Inductees:

Rob Lowe – Raised right here in Dayton, Rob Lowe’s journey from local kid to Hollywood icon is a story of talent and perseverance. From The Outsiders to The West Wing, his career spans generations—and his roots in Dayton remind us that the biggest stars shine brightest when they never forget where they came from.

Vic Cassano Sr. – The king of Dayton-style pizza. With a thin crust, square-cut slice, and entrepreneurial spirit, Vic Cassano turned a grocery store side hustle into a regional empire. Cassano’s Pizza King became the taste of a city and the foundation of a family legacy.

The Original Lakeside – Born and raised in Dayton, The Original Lakeside brought a unique funk and soul sound to the nation that still echoes today. With their hit “Fantastic Voyage,” they captured the spirit of an era—and their vibrant energy, infectious grooves, and style continue to inspire fans and musicians alike.

The Levin Family – Rooted in a courageous journey from Eastern Europe to Dayton, the Levins transformed hardship into hope. Sam Levin, founder of the Levin Family Foundation, helped build a lasting legacy—one that continues today through family members like Karen Lorenz-Levin and Ryan Levin. Together, they uplift underserved communities across Montgomery County.

Jenell Ross – Breaking barriers and building legacy, Jenell Ross is the only second-generation African-American woman auto dealer in the country. As President of Bob Ross Auto Group and a passionate breast cancer advocate, she continues to accelerate change in Dayton and across the industry.

More Than a Sidewalk: A Living Landmark

Stretching down West Third Street in the heart of the Wright-Dunbar District, the Dayton Region Walk of Fame isn’t just a list of names—it’s a walking tour through Dayton’s legacy of invention, artistry, resilience, and heart. From the Wright Brothers and Paul Dunbar to local trailblazers and national legends, it’s a place where past meets present, and where every brick tells a story.

Whether you’re a lifelong Daytonian or just discovering the Gem City for the first time, the Walk of Fame is a reminder that greatness isn’t always found in flashing lights—it’s often right beneath your feet. The 2025 honorees will be formally recognized during a ceremony this fall. But why wait? Ttake a stroll. Snap a photo. Learn something new. And walk where they walked.

The Community’s Voice: DATV at the NATO Parliamentary Assembly

May 28, 2025 By Dayton937

Dayton Public Access Television (DATV), The Community’s Voice, was once again at the forefront of civic engagement during the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, held in Dayton, Ohio, from May 22 to May 26.

From the opening ceremony—featuring Dayton Mayor Jeffery Mims Jr., Representative Mike Turner (lead organizer of the Assembly’s visit), and NATO Parliamentary Assembly Secretary General, Mark Rutte—the event kicked off with a press conference at 3:00 p.m. on May 22. Local, national, and international dignitaries gathered to mark the beginning of this historic summit.

Fox News picked up DATV’s live feed from the Dayton dialogue at the University of Dayton and broadcast it live around the world!!

Throughout the Assembly weekend, DATV played a vital role in documenting the proceedings. Our crews were stationed at all four event venues: the Schuster Center, the Victoria Theatre, CareSource, and the Roger Glass Center at the University of Dayton. Morning and afternoon sessions were recorded at each site, creating a valuable archive of this milestone event for the City of Dayton.

Led by Dale Grow, the team at the Roger Glass Center not only recorded sessions but also livestreamed them via DATV’s Facebook page. These streams were picked up and broadcast by major news outlets including the Atlantic Council, the Associated Press, CNN, CNET, Fox News, and stations across Europe, including in Brussels and Belgium.

DATV—Dayton’s Community Voice—spoke loudly and clearly, not just to our local community, but to the world.

We celebrate and uplift the voices of our community: artists, activists, storytellers, and everyday citizens who make Dayton such an extraordinary place. DATV is more than a TV station—it is a platform for hope, a megaphone for change, and a canvas for creativity.

We invite you to take part in the story, a gift to give, or a voice that deserves to be heard, we’re here to help amplify it. Be part of the voice. Be part of The Community’s Voice.

Dayton at Work And Play: Deepika Singh

May 26, 2025 By Bill Franz

Conversation with Deepika Singh, co-owner (with her husband Jay) of Gulzar’s Indian Cuisine (across the street from the Dayton Dragons at 217 N. Patterson Blvd).

I love eating at Gulzar’s, and stopped in to check out the restaurant’s new space, which is adjacent to their old space. I asked Deepika how she came to be in the restaurant business.

“My husband Jay and I were both born in India and came here as children. When we married we decided to join Gulzar’s, Jay’s family business. The original Gulzar’s was started in Richmond, Indiana by my husband’s father. He named the restaurant Gulzar’s after his own father’s name. Now Jay’s older brother runs the restaurant in Richmond and we run this place in Dayton.”

“We opened downtown three years ago and are really happy with how well it’s gone. Some people who live or work downtown love Indian food and were glad to have us here. Others are new to this type of food but open to trying new things. We have a buffet for lunch every day so people can try all kinds of food and discover what they like the best.”

“When this space next to us opened up we decided to rent it and to give the restaurant a new look. As we designed this new space we asked our customers for ideas. Martin Pleiss, a customer who works at the Dayton Art Institute was a big help. The restaurant now seats 168, more than twice the seating they had before.”

“My husband and his father are the cooks here. You mentioned that you’ve enjoyed eating here, Bill. The dishes you ate were northern Indian food. In this new space we have a new menu. We’ve added some south Indian items you may want to try.”

I asked Deepika what she did before coming to Gulzar’s. “I was a teacher, and I loved it. I was born to be a teacher, and I feel like I still teach. Teaching is part of running a business.”

Dayton’s RUBIGirls ready to entertain the WORLD!

May 21, 2025 By Dayton937

You may have noticed many businesses and organizations are taking a breather while NATO has its big meeting here in the Gem City. One of Dayton’s most prolific groups, The Rubi Girls, is looking forward to meeting the international folks as they perform Friday Night at MJ’s Cafe on Jefferson. We caught up with the group’s Executive Director, Dana Sintell, to get the scoop!

937: Hello Ms. Sintell. So, did you ever in a million years think you might perform in front of NATO as part of your 40 years in show business?

DS: Ha ha. Hell no. We have done some crazy stuff in our 40 years, but this one seems almost surreal. We have no idea if anyone from NATO will come or not….but they should!! Of course, the show is really not the RubiGirls‘ typical outing. Cherry Poppins is having her popular ‘Cherry’s Playhouse‘ and asked us to join in the fun. We were excited to be asked. And a Friday Night show is always a great way to wind down the week. Especially this Memorial Day Weekend!!

937: And it is at MJ’s….not sure we have seen the RubiGirls there in some time.

DS: It has been a long time…we don’t do the number of bar shows we once did. I think all of us miss those greatly. This just seems right, too. Dayton has always been a welcoming place for people of all kinds and this show invites the world…literally, to see the fun we have in our city!

937: I understand it is sold out?

DS: Stop right there…..I HATE THOSE WORDS! Listen, come down, we will do our best to find you a seat, a table, or a lap to sit on.

937: How many RubiGirls will we see Friday Night? And can you clue us on on what to expect?

DS: We went round and round and round….and after talking through it all, we thought, let’s do what Rubi does. Don’t try to change it up. We work well doing what we do. As for the who’s who…you get Cherry, who has enough energy to go 2 hours alone! You get Tara Misu who really is a creative force in our organization. You get the cherished India Summer, who just has that welcoming feel and fabulous looks. And then, of course, I’ll be cuh-razy for those who like that sort of thing.

937: What about NATO security, etc….and what time will you kick it off?

DS: MJ’s is just outside NATO village, so can be assured security will be everywhere. The Dayton Police have always, I mean ALWAYS been a good friend to the RubiGirls!! The show starts at 9pm. We will have audience games, complete mayhem and cocktails throughout!

937: And I know, I think we all know, RubiGirls donate their time and dollars. Who will be the recipient this time around?

DS: We are helping the Dayton Pride Committee and the RubiGirls Scholarship Fund. 2 amazing organizations!

937: Thank you Dana. Congratulations on 40 years, and the fact that this season for you ladies has received RAVE REVIEWS!! Keep it up!

For more info, click below!

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/cherrys-playhouse-presents-the-rubi-girls-followed-by-friday-night-cap-tickets-1339748697419?aff=oddtdtcreator

Out On 5th is Back For The Summer

May 21, 2025 By Lisa Grigsby

Out on 5th is back for another summer season!

Out on 5th is the street closure of Fifth Street in the Oregon District of downtown Dayton on weekends: Fridays 5 -10 pm/ Saturdays noon – 10 pm / Sundays noon – 10 pm.

Closing down Fifth Street from Patterson Boulevard to Wayne Avenue every Friday night through Sunday evening allows
our business district to open up the street for guests to shop – dine – and relax in the open air.

Out on 5th gives restaurants and bars in the district room to expand patio seating into the streets.
Fifth Street is filled with public seating to allow guests room to spread out and enjoy the outdoors.
Retail shops can use extra sidewalk space in front of their business for sales. Looking to hold a retail pop-up? Apply here.
Local entertainment will be in the district every weekend to enhance the atmosphere. Looking to be an entertainer? Apply here.

Parking

Thousands of parking spaces on surface lots, parking garages, or metered side streets (free on weekends) surround the Oregon District.

During Out on 5th, please use the detour map at the bottom of this page to navigate around the street closures and into the parking lots.

Our Oregon District businesses kindly ask you to park in these lots, garages or public street spaces, and not in the residential neighborhood.

Driving to Out on 5th

With Fifth street closed, the official detour is using Wayne Avenue, Fourth Street and Patterson Boulevard to access parking to visit Out on 5th.

To access the parking lots on the north side of Fifth Street, turn onto Jackson from Wayne Avenue.

Dayton at Work and Play: Samaneh Faramarzi

May 19, 2025 By Bill Franz

I met Samaneh (Sama) Faramarzi at the Second Street Market as she was selling her art and some of her baked goods. Then I visited one of the most versatile artists I’ve ever met.

When I arrived Sama was painting in her backyard. “I usually paint indoors but today was so beautiful I moved things outside” she told me.

We started with saffron tea and raisin cookies. Then I tried a slice of her cake. “The cakes are similar to those found in Europe” she explained. “They are less sweet than most American cakes and have layers of cream and fresh fruits. The cookies are a traditional Iranian recipe.”

“I’ve always enjoyed cooking, and I started baking my own pastries and cakes because I missed these flavors from my home country. I made cookies and a cake for my son’s 3rd birthday party and people enjoyed them. Now more and more people want me to bake for them. I call that business Sama’s Sweet Kitchen.“

“People especially like my decorated cakes, and I enjoy making them. They are not just desserts. They are edible artwork. When I’m not painting on canvas, I find great fulfillment in making these cakes, and I know they bring happiness to others.”

Then Sama showed me some of her artwork. “I work in many mediums and in many styles. I use acrylic and water colors and colored pencils and alcohol and ink. Sometimes I paint precisely and sometimes I do pour paintings that make an abstract pattern. Sometimes I even do hand building in clay. Unless I’m doing a commission for someone I just make the art that will make me the most happy at that time.”

Sama sent me home with a few slices of cake and some cookies. My wife absolutely loved the cake and when she saw photos of some of the decorated cakes I could see she was thinking about using them for some event. For myself, I liked the cake but may have become addicted to Sama’s raisin cookies. I think I’ll tell my daughters that’s what I want for Father’s Day.

Contact Sama on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100046469269811

Local Residents Hold “People’s Town Hall” in Dayton, Highlighting Urgent Community Concerns

May 16, 2025 By Dayton937

With the absence of their elected representative, concerned citizens of Ohio’s 10th Congressional District gathered on Thursday evening for a grassroots “People’s Town Hall” at Sinclair Community College in Dayton. Organized to address pressing local and national issues, the event offered a platform for residents to voice their concerns directly, despite Congressman Mike Turner’s decision not to attend.

Rose Lounsbury emceed the People’s Town Hall. Photo by Libby Ballengee

An empty chair on stage symbolized the Congressman’s absence, underscoring what many attendees described as a lack of accessibility and accountability to constituents.

Speakers at the event covered a wide range of issues currently affecting District 10 residents, including the impact of recent state and federal policy changes on immigration, Social Security, Medicaid, veterans’ benefits, and layoffs of government workers.

“This town hall is about people standing up for each other, especially when our leaders won’t show up to hear us,” said one local attendee. “These are life-or-death issues for many in our community. We deserve to be heard.”

Speakers from The People’s Town Hall. Photo by Libby Ballengee

The town hall drew attendees from across the district, including retirees, veterans, public workers, and families concerned about the direction of policy decisions that directly affect their lives. Several speakers called for more transparent and responsive representation in Congress, and urged community members to stay engaged and active.

While Congressman Turner declined the invitation to attend, organizers say the event marks only the beginning of ongoing efforts to bring constituent voices to the forefront.

The People’s Town Hall was coordinated by a coalition of grassroots advocates committed to elevating civic engagement and local accountability, including Melissa Rodriquez, Leslie Merry, Kim Senft-Paras, Rose Lounsbury, and Laurel Kerr.

Attendees were encouraged to follow up with action items, including checking their voter registration status, signing the local petition against Ohio House Bill SB1, and contacting their representatives about their concerns.