Community

Beaver-Vu Bowl Hosts Grand Finale Queen of Hearts

July 17, 2023 By Dayton937

We’re sure many of you heard about the Beaver-Vu- Bowl’s Queen of Hearts drawing on July 10th. The concept for Queen of Hearts is simple – tickets are sold and each week a ticket is pulled and that ticket holder gets a chance to pick one card from the deck. If they find the queen they win, if not People buy tickets, and if their ticket is drawn, they get a chance to flip one card on the board. If a queen is not chosen, the money rolls to the next weeks drawing.

It ran for 50 weeks without a winner and the jackpot got up to $1,034,737. Hundred of folks packed the bowling alley and the parking lot hoping to win. On that night there were 5 cards left, two ticket holders were picked, each of them did not find the queen of hearts, so another ticket was drawn and that gentleman picked the Queen of Hearts and became an instant millionaire.

This was the 6th time Beaver-Vu- Bowl has hosted this contest. Each contest held back seed money for the next contest and after all the excitement and attention this one drew, the owner declared that they will hold one final one day event to pay out the seed money and that will be it.

Tickets are now on sale for the Grand Finale that will be held on Monday, July 24th at 7pm. They’ll update the jack pot amount, as of 7/18 it’s $704,855 and it will continue to rise as folks buy tickets. All the details you need to know are below:

Beaver-Vu Bowl

1238 N Fairfield Rd,
Beavercreek, OH 45432

937.426.6771

Hours:

Sun & Mon noon – 10pm
Tues & Wed 4-10pm
Thurs 9am – 10pm
Fri & Sat noon – midnight

Reservations available online

UK band makes a stop in Dayton on US Tour!

July 17, 2023 By LIbby Ballengee

UK’s Project Blackbird is on their first US tour, and are prioritizing Dayton as one of their stops! You can see them Tuesday, July 18th at 8pm at The Brightside.

This “extraordinary” band, as BBC 6Music’s Tom Robinson has described them, offers an atmospheric, genre-fluid listening experience that draws equally upon intellect and emotion. They are made up of 5 core members are vocalist Ming Nagel (originally from the USA), multi-instrumentalist Jon Read (former trumpet player for The Specials), guitarist Alan Roberts, multi-instrumentalist Jamie Varley, and drummer Eddie Dublin.

“Imagine a party at Ronnie Scott’s,” one fan suggests, “where Sade, Björk, Jeff Beck, and David Byrne meet Portishead and then go for a late night curry to exchange ideas…sublime”.

Local support comes from Rude Scholar. On site food truck, Phat & Rich, will be on site!

HOW TO GO?

July 18, 2023

Doors 7:30pm

Show 8:15pm

All ages welcome!

$10 advance / $15 day of show.
Advance tickets: https://www.venuepilot.co/events/75846/orders/new

Venue address: 905 E 3rd St (free, on-site parking available)

Business is Built on Connection — A Dayton Story

July 17, 2023 By Guest Contributor

As 2023 tees up historic battles involving the economy, the planet’s survival, the meaning of U.S. legal precedent, the labor market, librarians, renters, immigrants, and the right to a modicum of privacy, the overwhelming impression over the last three years often boils down to — what difference can one person even make?

Within the context of individualism vs. collectivism — especially following the 2020 lockdowns and a global health emergency — the rebellion against doing right by “we’re all in this together” has only grown louder over time.

Yet, this is where the brightest Dayton area entrepreneurs — specifically, businesses operating in the retail, restaurant, and live entertainment industries in Miami Valley — shine. From past rivalries, pandemic chaos, gun violence, and environmental disasters, a new type of teamwork model for area business emerged. What if “Dayton Strong” operates in 2023 more like a back of house restaurant staff and less like a candle vigil? What if survival mode morphed into a Dayton that thrives on community, collaboration, and celebrating other businesses’ wins?

The question “what difference can one person make?” has an answer: the person who makes a difference is one who knows how to operate on a team. Not just in words or by donating $5 to a GoFundMe (although both are necessary tools.) No, this team looks like flawless prep and delivery during a hot kitchen’s rush hour; like a dinner service where the oven craps out at 4:30 PM and the chef sets up an outdoor grill in frigid temps; like a local grocer who covers for the restaurant distributor who couldn’t deliver on the promised (and prepaid) palette of dry goods; like a Hail Mary social media call for electricians getting answered within an hour thanks to loyal followers; like an owner who asks for extra help to cover an emergency from anyone in the restaurant industry in order to spare the staff another consecutive 12-hour shift.

These examples are a fraction of real stories from Dayton, where survival of the fittest means looking out for your crew and neighbors.

Won’t You Be My Neighbor?

The Dayton business community is made up of conscientious individuals — and that integrity translates into a business advantage. How so? During times of emergency, or uncertainty even, a business can leverage its patrons and community to support what can not be hired for. In other words, loyalty and care go farther to protecting the bottom line than just making a quota of sales. These local business owners display a neighborly approach to interactions, instead of just selling passersby a slice of the day or average retail therapy.

Some examples from the past: Individuals who own and operate restaurants, retail stores, and entertainment venues thought to hand out ice cold water to advocates for Black Justice during hot summer days. They delivered food to frontline workers in health care facilities beyond downtown, as well as showing up with creative solidarity like “Essential Worker” t-shirts made especially for other retailers throughout the Miami Valley. Dayton entrepreneurs found meaningful ways to thank the Dayton Police who mitigated horrific violence in a crowd, saving countless neighboring lives. These are old — but new examples happen every day.

So, while tech firms, auto factories, and engineering shops retain the statused patina of press conferences, official ribbon cutting ceremonies, and bragging rights to Helping the Region boost jobs, etc… It’s also true that the entrepreneurial industries hardest hit over three brutal years — the industries with arguably more to lose in every sense, and industries where profits routinely get reinvested into business operations and “starting over” will cost a lifetime — are the same ones on the leading edge of innovative business models.

By re-writing the narrative around business success from competition at any cost to incorporating collaborations, Dayton entrepreneurs build on the foundations of their vision being supported by others in the same line of work.

At the risk of sounding too Shangri-la about Midwest entrepreneurial spirit, it bears repeating that the survival of the area’s most volatile industries was possible due to their finding new ways of running a profitable business. And, to the benefit of patrons, the collaborative model has spawned entirely unique dining, shopping, and entertainment events — including hundreds of fundraisers benefiting area nonprofits.

Community-Focused Business Models Include:

Heart Mercantile hosted Billie Gold Bubble Tea Bus and other local food trucks, and collaborates with hundreds of Ohio-based businesses, artists, and overall interesting people. Heart Mercantile is a beloved and award-winning retailer recognized for its unique gifts, sense of humor, and inviting atmosphere (which helps explain why the store has expanded 2x) and remains one of the leading area businesses advocating ways to give back, get involved, and support Dayton-centric causes and its people.
Toxic Brewery consistently hosts high-quality food trucks, phenomenal pop-up dining events, live musicians, live comedians, hosts trivia, selects and celebrates local artists, hires local muralists, and has collaborated with area restaurants and breweries — i.e., competitors! — to create limited edition tasty brews. Toxic is a local leader in business and continues to thrive in the arguably competitive Dayton brewery market.
Square One Salon & Spa takes generosity, live entertainment, community service, and client care to new levels (full disclosure: the author is a happy client) due to the vision, talent, and leadership of Square One’s celebrated owners. Combining monthly cause marketing fundraisers, product donations to benefit area nonprofit fundraisers, performing as Rubi Girls at gala fundraising events, caring for their staff and clients during inclement weather, and overall obsessing over quality, Square One Salon elevates philanthropy, live entertainment, and personal services.
Square One Salon staff cutting and shaving up a storm at UD for The American Cancer Society and Locks of Love.
Warped Wing Brewery hosts numerous fundraisers year round with its program, “Share a Pint, Make a Difference” program that selects a nonprofit each month and donates a percentage of its taproom sales during high-traffic times, as well as collecting in-kind donations for various humanitarian causes, and hosting in-person happy hour nonprofit fundraising events. In addition to active participation in fundraising, Warped Wing highlights the love of local Esther Price Candies in its highly anticipated limited release brew. Warped Wing and Toxic Brew teamed up to create a limited release brew, and the Warped Wing was instrumental as a gathering place for the community over the last three years.
Sueño, with 4x James Beard Foundation and nationally-recognized Chef Jorge Guzman, hosted a series of dinners with area acclaimed chefs where the combined skills and expertise of both chefs were on display. The series, called Deeply Rooted, in addition to giving diners a behind-the-scenes fine dining experience that shared the spotlight with another chef (and their place of business) also benefited area nonprofits.
Many more — Dayton, share your favorites in the comments.

Doing Well While Doing Good

An evolutionary benefit to these business collaborations is building consumer trust in the brand — both for the hosting business and for the more mobile, or pop-up, entrepreneur. As a patron, seeing businesses share the spotlight and good vibes with collaborators is a breath of fresh air. Plus, it serves as a two-in-one experience. Within the environment of creative teamwork, there will always be rising stars — like the food truck standouts throughout Dayton, the niche retailers and service professionals, and hybrid restaurants that host delis, full menus, and even fresh produce and corner-store essentials under the same roof. More recently in July, one chef whose remarkable year has not slowed down at the midpoint of 2023, is an example of the breadth of community that is possible through business.

The celebrity aspect of Chef Dane’s work risks diminishing the years of his work booking pop-ups, individual and business catered events, individually sourcing ingredients, meticulous menus, cooking large-scale entertainment events, and much more. The creative range and fierce loyalty that Chef Dane expresses through his work also comes through in every location he set up shop prior to opening his own restaurant, Culture, that opened this past July weekend. From his work at Toxic Brewery, to co-hosted ticketed events with Phat & Rich Food Truck, to The City of Dayton block parties, to catering area business lunches and celebratory staff dinners, and more — Culture grew from the same ecosystem of teamwork that helped build Chef’s Dane client base. Even in the initial days of service, Chef Dane shares that Culture’s menu is sourced from local farms and area bakeries — recognizing the area’s quality work, business ties, and current collaborations. And as one of Dayton’s more recognizable entrepreneurs, it is worth noting that in July we celebrate Dayton’s Black Business Owners and Black Business Month — and, well-deserved congratulations for Chef Dane, with congratulations going to his business supporters and the Culture staff and crew who join him.

If “booked and busy” were encapsulated as an individual, nobody would argue that Chef Dane both defines and defies the image. In fact, few would argue that all Downtown Dayton entrepreneurs embody that phrase. Turns out, behind the gratis and for-profit collaborations, the high-profile events, and the community-minded business owners, there are endless project management tasks, last minute changes to goods and services, an extreme attention to detail, and the ruthless delivery on personal integrity on a daily basis.

Congratulations to every entrepreneur thriving in 2023, but especially to the individuals and teams working throughout Dayton.

. Written by Alma Sove

Doing my thing in Dayton, Ohio. Educated, yes. Polished, no.

Governor DeWine Announces Locations for Interstate Electric Vehicle Charging Stations

July 15, 2023 By Dayton937

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine announced the future locations of 27 new electric vehicle (EV) charging stations that will be installed along Ohio interstates, making Ohio the first state in the nation to announce charging station sites that will be developed as part of the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Program.

“This is an exciting time for Ohio as we continue to lead the charge in electric mobility,” said Governor DeWine. “As more Ohioans purchase EVs, this statewide network of chargers will ensure that our transportation infrastructure is prepared to accommodate these drivers, as well as visitors who travel to Ohio to see all that our great state has to offer.”

During a news conference today with Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) Director Jack Marchbanks, DriveOhio Executive Director Preeti Choudhary, and Federal Highway Administration Deputy Administrator Andrew Rogers, Governor DeWine announced that the state will award more than $18 million in NEVI funds for 27 electric vehicle fast charging stations along seven of Ohio’s interstate corridors, including I-70, I-71, I-74, I-75, I-76, I-77, and I-90.

The $18 million in NEVI funding will be matched with nearly $6 million from the private entities selected to install and operate the new EV fast charging stations, including Pilot Travel Centers, TH Midwest, Francis Energy, Meijer Stores, EVgo Services, ChargeNet Stations, and Equilon/Shell.

Winning proposals include site plans at existing travel centers, grocery stores, retail shops, a hotel, a restaurant, and a bank. The new charging stations will be located every 50 miles and will be situated no more than 1 mile off the interstate. Each site will include at least four charger ports with 150 kilowatts for each port and will be accessible 24/7 with easy access to food, drink, and restrooms.

“As the mix of automobiles on the road changes, we must adapt our infrastructure, and EV charging stations are a part of improving customer service for Ohio drivers and businesses,” said Lt. Governor Jon Husted. “The automobile industry is a proud part of our history, and with new investments in battery plants and EVs, the auto industry can be a source of jobs and prosperity for our future.”

DETAILS: Full List of 27 EV Charging Station Locations

s that can be used to further cement Ohio’s place in this transportation revolution.”

DriveOhio, a division of ODOT, will oversee the implementation of the new charging stations, which are expected to be in operation next year. The new fast charging stations will join 13 preexisting federally compliant charging stations in Ohio.

One of the major concerns for consumers considering purchasing an electric vehicle has been ‘Can I find a place to charge it?’ This is a major step in removing that barrier and making sure that in Ohio, the answer is yes,” said Choudhary.

There are currently about 53,000 registered electric vehicles in Ohio, with that number expected to significantly increase in coming years. In total, Ohio will receive $140 million in NEVI funds over the next five years to support the installation of EV charging stations across the state. Once charging stations are installed on Ohio’s interstates, state routes, and U.S. routes, the remaining funding will be used to install charging stations in other areas.

Seven Days of Fun at The Montgomery County Fair!

July 6, 2023 By Dayton937

The 171st Montgomery County Fair kicks off this Sunday, July 9th and will run through Saturday, July 15th.

It will be a week filled with the demolition derby, 4H, junior fair, livestock, petting zoo, dog show, circus, flower show, games, rides, awesome fair eats & treats, harness racing, rodeo, free entertainment with paid admission, plus much more!

Join us July 9-15 for the 171st Montgomery County Fair! We will feature all the fair favorites: demolition derby, 4H, junior fair, livestock, petting zoo, dog show, circus, flower show, games, rides, awesome fair eats & treats, harness racing, rodeo, free entertainment with paid admission, plus much more!

Entertainment Highlights include:

Band of Flight Air Force Band: Mon 7-10pm
Truck/Tractor Pulls: Sun 6pm, Wed 7pm

Diesel Drag Racing: Tue 7pm
Tug-A-Trucks: Thur 5:30pm
Demolition Derby: Mon 7pm & Fri 7pm

Rodeo: Sat 7pm
Cincinnati Circus: nightly at 9pm

Draft Horses often referred to as Gentle Giants, will be on display this year at the fair and due to the generosity of Hagemeyer Homestead, the fair is offering free Draft Horse Rides at the Montgomery County Fair.

Come check out these gentle giants on

Sunday, July 9, from 1-4

Saturday, July 15, from 3-6.

And for the kids, the best part of the fair is often the carnival rides:

And of course, all your favorite fair food will be there, Soul food, tacos, ice cream, fried pork tenderloins, deep fried desserts, you’ll find it all at the fair.

Montgomery County Fairgrounds
645 Infirmary Rd,

Dayton, OH 45417

Fair Hours:
Sun noon to 10pm,
Mon – Thurs 10am – 10pm,
Fri & Sat 10am – 11pm

To help reduce lines we are asking you to purchase your tickets online. $10 Admission Includes Grandstand Events, Free Parking. Kids 6 and Under are free with a paid adult. You also have the option to purchase your tickets at the gate by scanning the QR provided. Weeklong passes are available for $40

Dayton at Work and Play: K & R Pretzel Bakery

July 6, 2023 By Bill Franz

Visited K & R Pretzel Bakery recently. It’s run by the sister and brother team of Pattie and Jim Glaze. Their parents started the business in 1967.

Their set up is a bit different than the one at Smales Pretzel Bakery because their oven has a conveyer belt. They sold me one that had just dropped off the conveyer belt. It was amazing. They also sell assorted novelty candies, circus peanuts and bottled sodas.

K & R Pretzel Bakery

1700 Flesher Ave
Kettering, OH 45420

937-299-2231

Hours:
Tuesday through Saturday from 10 to 4.

Oregon District Building Razed And New Investments

July 3, 2023 By Guest Contributor

A major developer in Downtown Dayton’s renaissance recently acquired several buildings in and near the Oregon District. Woodard Development, which has completed major projects throughout downtown and Webster Station including both adaptive reuse and new construction, will upgrade and re-activate properties and bring new amenities to the neighborhood.

One building, unfortunately, was unable to be saved and has just been demolished.

Buildings purchased by Woodard include the Johnston (513-23 E. Fifth) and Schaefer Buildings (601-613 E. Fifth), which are currently occupied and will see upgrades to the apartments. The Schaefer, which has storefronts on both Fifth and Wayne Ave, has numerous commercial tenants including Corner Kitchen, Press Coffee, Heart Mercantile, Luna Gifts & Botanicals and Puff Apothecary. The Johnston houses Clash Dayton.

Vacant structures on Fifth Street bought by Woodard include 337 and 343 E. 5th St. which are the two buildings next to Lily’s Bistro. And the most interesting acquisition is the former United Business Service building at 505 S. Jefferson Street near Patterson Boulevard and US-35 just beyond the historic neighborhood.

The building that was demolished is the one just next to Lily’s.

At the time of purchase, Jason Woodard said that “the wall closest to Lily’s is caved in; it’s past saving. The city declared it an imminent threat. We closed on it knowing that smaller building will come down.”

An inspection by Dayton’s chief building official concluded it was in danger of collapsing, and Tony Kroeger, Dayton’s planning division manager, said that “the conditions of the building compel the city to approve the demolition of the property.”

A letter to Oregon District neighborhood said that “demolition in historic districts is an option of last resort, but this project will replace an unsafe structure with an attractive and active courtyard.”

The lost structure at 337 E Fifth Street (as well as its neighbor 341) was constructed some time earlier than 1887.

In the early 1900s, the building was used as a hotel. By the 1950s, it was the Flex O Steel Company. The building was also connected to Dayton’s music scene which still has a presence just across the street. In 1969, 337 E Fifth was Ron’s Records and in the 1980s it was Gem City Records before that business expanded nearby to what is today Omega Music.

The image above shows the street when the train tracks were being elevated around 1930. The circle shows the two buildings purchased by Woodard; the buildings to the left including the fire station with the tower were demolished and the ones that are today Lily’s were built later. Image via Dayton Metro Library

The façade of the building was heavily altered in the late 1970s to replace a crumbling and partially demolished wooden addition to the original brick structure, which was described as “an old Georgian with a square front.”

Clipping via Newspapers.com

The goal of the alteration was to “restore the two-story structure to what it looked like in the early 1900s” but it still meant that the building did not have enough historic integrity to qualify as a contributing structure to the historic district.

Based on the inspections and reports from neighboring businesses, it’s hard to disagree with the conclusion that the building needed to come down. But it’s still a disappointing loss.

With deteriorating buildings, the debate typically scrutinizes the historic significance, or lack thereof, to decide if it “deserves” to be preserved.

But it’s not just the Dayton Arcades and Traxler Mansions that make Dayton what it is. The everyday vernacular architecture is a huge part of what why urban places are unique and special and Dayton has already lost a staggering percentage of its 19th-century building stock.

And buildings, especially in historic commercial districts, are intimately part of the context of the surrounding streetscape. Corridors lined with an unbroken “street wall” give us a pleasing sense of enclosure and act as a sort of outdoor living room for a vibrant, walkable space that people will want to spend time in.

This type of building pattern also builds significantly more wealth for their communities than suburban models of fewer buildings spaced farther out.

Coherent and connected historic business districts were once ubiquitous in all parts of Dayton but most were totally wiped off the map and the couple that remain are an endangered species with major gaps.

The Oregon District is considered the best-preserved neighborhood in Dayton but its signature Fifth Street already has many gaps due to previous neglect or planned demolitions of just this type of building (look no further than the sizable lot directly on the other side of the 341 building and compare to the historic image above).

It’s also worth noting Woodard’s commitment to preservation when possible, including last year when it responded to a call to preserve a historic church on Brown Street that was originally planned to be razed for a new medical building. They saved and incorporated the historic building into the new facility.

Tomorrow I’ll shift gears to this history of a newly purchased building that does survive, the former UBS building.

This post by Andrew Walsh, a writer and academic librarian at Sinclair College. He researches urban history and is the author of Lost Dayton as well as the founder of DaytonVistas.com and other websites.

A New Event Space Coming to Washington Township

July 2, 2023 By Guest Contributor

I’m Ashley Swank, I’ve worked for my parents at Main Street Deli in Springboro for the past 25 years. I work day to day operations as well as handle all social media. I have had the dream of opening my very own wedding reception space for around 15 years. I have always thought it would be a perfect job to put all my strengths to use. It will be a very rewarding job to help couples plan their perfect day and stick to a budget they can feel comfortable with. I will treat every wedding reception and event as if they were my own and will do everything in my power to ensure all events go off without a hitch.

The name Brick & Beam came from what I plan for the space to look like. It will have an industrial type feel with concrete floors, big beams from floor to ceiling and we will be adding a brick accent wall. I wanted the name to spark a vision of what the space looks like inside. We have lots of painting and decorating ahead of us but plan to be open in August.

Inspiration picture

My fiancé and I just got engaged this spring and our wedding is the first one in the books! I am very excited to get to decorate the building to suit my style and then execute my dream wedding and reception in my very own venue. There are no nerves, I’ve already planned every last detail and am ready to get the party started.

We hope the venue will be able to hold around 140 people comfortably, leaving space for a dance floor, bar and prep kitchen for caterers to use. There will be two get ready rooms as well. Tables and chairs for up to 140 guests will be included for reception rentals. We will also have some add on decor items for an additional charge. All vendor choices will be left up to guests. We want everyone to use who they are comfortable with and whoever fits their budget. It’s their big day and it should be exactly what they envision.

There will be a prep kitchen for caterers to use that will include a large commercial refrigerator and plenty of counter/ work table space.

Along with wedding receptions we plan to have baby showers, wedding showers, graduation parties, birthday parties, corporate events, holiday parties and whatever else you can dream up! Through the week we would love to hold classes in the evenings, cookie decorating, charcuterie board making, candle making and any other fun ideas anyone may have.

Before opening I plan to hold a large open house type event where brides, grooms, families, the community and wedding vendors can all come view the space. I look forward to meeting all vendors and collecting their information to compile a list for guests if they have a need. Please follow our facebook page Brick & Beam Event Center for all details and to connect with us.

Brick & Beam Event Center

5571 Far Hills Ave.

Dayton, OH 45429

937-234-7580 Text & Calls

24 4th of July Celebrations Around Town

June 29, 2023 By Dayton937

Also known as Independence Day, the 4th of July commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence, which solidified the American colonies’ resolution to fight for their independence from Britain.

In Fourth of July celebrations, fireworks signify national pride and patriotism. They had been used in China since at least the 12th century, and in the 15th century they became popular with European monarchs as a way to celebrate national triumphs, the restoration of peace, and the monarchs’ own birthdays. Fireworks have been part of Independence Day in the United States since its first celebration, in 1777.

Here’s where to

July 1 @ 10:00 am – 10:00 pm

Star Spangled Heights

Thomas Cloud Park 4707 Brandt Pike, Dayton, OH

10:00 AM – City of Huber Heights Parade – Chambersburg Road/Brandt Pike to Nebraska Avenue/Brandt Pike
11:00 AM – Historical Society Car Show
12:00 PM to 8:00 PM – Festival at Thomas Cloud Park With Food Trucks, Kids’ Activities, Beer Garden, and More!

Band Performance Schedule:

2:00-4:00p Ludlow Creek
4:30-8:00p Parrots of the Caribbean
8:00-10:00p Remix – Family Game Night

Dark – City of Huber Heights Fireworks Display

Free

July 1 @ 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Waynesville Independence Day Parade & Fireworks

Bicentennial Park 837 Dayton Road, Waynesville

Free

July 2 @ 3:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Eaton Fireworks Celebration

Preble County Historical Society 7693 Swartsel Road, Eaton, OH

A community celebration featuring live music, from
3 -10pm lots of food trucks and of course fireworks to end the evening!

July 2 @ 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Greenville Food Trucks, Fireworks & Fun

Darke County Fairgrounds
800 Sweitzer St, Greenville

Free parking

Free event

July 3 @ 2:00 pm – 10:00 pm

𝐉𝐮𝐥𝐲 𝟑𝐫𝐝 𝐅𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐥

Community Park 691 E Dayton Yellow Springs Rd, Fairborn, OH

The July 3rd events might not be Downtown, but Don’t Stop Believin’, because we have moved the festivities to Community Park and the Journey has just begun!

July 3 @ 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Lebanon Independence Day Celebration

Colonial Park West 720 North Broadway, Lebanon, OH

Celebrate our nation’s independence at the Independence Day Celebration! This free family-friendly event starts at 6 pm at Colonial Park West with kids activities, live music starting at 7 pm, fireworks, by Rozzi’s Famous Fireworks, start at 10 pm.

Parking is available at the Warren County Fairgrounds. Handicap accessible parking is available at Colonial Park West.

July 3 @ 4:00 pm – 11:00 pm

Independence Day Festival

Smith Park 500 Tytus Ave., Middletown

Schedule of Events

6-7pm The Gillespie Express
7.30-8pm National Anthem – Flag Jump by Team Fastrax, Mayor Nicole Condrey
8-9.30pm Music by Scotty Bratcher
9.45pm Yokum Fireworks – Pyro Jump by Team Fastrax

July 3 @ 7:00 pm – 11:00 pm

Vandalia Star-Spangled Celebration

Vandalia Rec Center 1111 Stonequarry Rd, Vandalia, OH

July 3 @ 10:00 pm

Centerville Americana Fireworks

Centerville High School
500 E. Franklin St., Centerville

July 3 @ 10:00 pm

Lights in Flight Fireworks

Kettering Field
444 N Bend Blvd, Dayton

July 3 @ 10:00 pm

Buck Creek Boom- Clark County

Ferncliff at the Banks of Buck Creek 1
901 Buck Creek Lane, Springfield

July 4 @ 9:00 am – 10:00 pm

Troy 4th of July Parade, Concert & Fireworks

Treasure Island Park
409 N. Elm St, Troy, OH

9:00 a.m.: Downtown 4th of July Parade, hosted by the Independence Day Parade Committee
6:30 p.m.: Food trucks will begin selling food at Treasure Island Park
7:30 p.m.: Concert at Treasure Island amphitheater
10 p.m.: Annual fireworks display

We’re welcoming the Wet Bandits, a 90s party cover band, as part of the City’s July 4th event, presented by the Troy Area Chamber of Commerce, the Troy Rotary Club, and the City of Troy. Food trucks will begin selling food at Treasure Island Park starting at 6:30 p.m., and the annual fireworks display is slated for 10 p.m.

The Market Street Bridge, both sides and the top of the levee, and the seating area at the North Market Street ballfield are all excellent locations to see the fireworks.

July 4 @ 10:00 am – 11:00 am

Wettest Parade in Ohio

downtown Franklin

July 4 @ 10:00 am – 10:00 pm

Fairborn July 4 Parade & Fireworks

Community Park
691 E Dayton Yellow Springs Rd, Fairborn

The July 4th parade at 10am from Central Avenue to Main Street featuring many civic groups and community floats. This is a fun event for the entire family.

After the parade, we move the party to Community Park!

After the parade, the party continues at 4pm back at Community park with food trucks, vendors, concerts, and fireworks presented by Rozzi. Fireworks display at approximately 10pm.

We look forward to seeing you this July as we celebrate!

July 4 @ 11:00 am – 5:00 pm

West Milton 4th of July

Downtown West Milton West Milton, OH

July 4 @ 6:00 pm

Springboro July 4th – Boro Boom!

SPRINGBORO HIGH SCHOOL 1675 S Main Street, Springboro, OH

Free

July 4 @ 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Kettering – Go 4th!

Delco Park 1700 Delco Park Drive, Kettering, OH

Free

July 4 @ 6:00 pm – 10:30 pm

Beavercreek 4th of July Parade and Fireworks

Rotary Park 2260 Dayton Xenia Rd, Beavercreek, OH

July 4 @ 6:00 pm – 10:30 pm

Star Spangled Boom

Wax Park 3800 Main Street, Moraine, OH

July 4 @ 7:00 pm

Englewood July 4th Celebration

Centennial Park 205 Union Rd, Englewood, OH

4th of July / Fireworks 2022 Celebration Englewood’s annual fireworks celebration at Centennial Park. The Civic Band will perform beginning at 7:00 pm. Fireworks begin at approximately 10:00 pm.

Englewood’s annual fireworks celebration is held on July 4th beginning at 10 p.m. at Centennial Park.

Filling the air with patriotic tunes, the Englewood Civic Band kicks things off at 7:00 p.m.
Children will be aglow with excitement as the Englewood Fire Association will sell glow rings.
Join us as we celebrate Independence!
Rain date: July 5

July 4 @ 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Lima’s Star Spangled Spectacular

Faurot Park
S Cole St at Lakewood Ave, Lima,

July 4 @ 9:00 pm – 11:59 pm

Independence Day Fireworks & Extended Hours

Kings Island

6300 Kings Island D, Mason

Kings Island’s annual Fourth of July celebration is an unforgettable experience that brings friends and families together for a day filled with fun, entertainment and one of the most largest and most immersive Independence Day fireworks displays in the Greater Cincinnati area. This colorful pageant in the sky set against the backdrop of the Eiffel Tower and Orion giga coaster will certainly cap off a fun and memorable day at the park.

Let Kings Island’s executive chef Joseph Perez and the culinary team do the cooking for you at Coney Bar-B-Que. This fast-casual dining location in the Coney Mall sector of the park offers various barbecue favorites along with a selection of fresh side dishes.

On July 4, the park will remain open after the show until midnight, giving guests two additional hours to enjoy their favorite attractions including The Beast, Diamondback and Mystic Timbers roller coasters, family and kids’ rides.

July 7 @ 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Kevin Sonnycalb Memorial Fireworks Festival

Shawnee Park
591 South Park Drive, Xenia,

July 9 @ 6:00 pm

Celebrate Freedom Community Fireworks

Abundant Life Tabernacle
9440 Eby. Rd, Germantown,

Get ready for an unforgettable evening filled with dazzling lights, booming sounds, and an electrifying atmosphere! Join us for our annual first ever Celebrate Freedom Firework Event, hosted by Abundant Life Tabernacle

Mesmerizing Firework Display: Brace yourself for a breathtaking display of fireworks that will light up the night sky, painting it with vibrant colors. Experience the magic as each explosion fills the air with wonder and excitement!

Live Music and Entertainment

Delicious Food and Refreshments: Treat your taste buds to a delightful assortment of food and beverages from local food trucks.

Fun Activities for All Ages: We have a range of activities planned to entertain everyone in the family! From face painting and bounce houses for the kids to interactive games and competitions for the adults, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Plan A Blueberry Picking Excursion

June 29, 2023 By Dayton937

Once in a Blue Moon Farms in Waynesville has announced they will be open for Blueberry picking this weekend. As long as the weather cooperates hours will be:

Saturday July 1st from 8:00 am – 1:00 pm

Sunday July 2nd from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm

Monday July 3rd Closed

Tuesday July 4th Closed

Farm Rules

In anticipation of opening day they’ve post info about thier farm to help you when you visit.

1. The farm is our home so please respect our privacy and Do Not arrive before we open. DO NOT block the driveway as our employees need to get in. There is a church down the road where you can park if you arrive early. We are on a busy road and you cannot block traffic. When you arrive there will be someone to show you where to park.

2. We accept Cash or Check only, no cards. There is not an ATM on site. Checks must have your correct address and phone number on them. New customers must show a drivers license. There is a minimum $25 up to the amount of the check written fee on returned checks.

3. Price per pound for u-pick is $4.30. Pre-picked pints are $6, quarts $12 and are in limited quantity at the booth during open hours.

4. We supply the buckets lined with a bag for picking. Full buckets hold approximately 8 pounds. We have a limited quantity of children’s buckets or they can bring their own. Their berries will go into the adult bucket to be weighed together. We don’t weigh children’s buckets. You take the berries home in the bag.

5. Please DO NOT eat berries in the field. We do spray fungicides (to control fruit rot) and insecticides (to control Japanese beetles and fruit flies) when necessary and the berries should be washed before eating. We supply instructions.

6. Our picking hours are subject to change depending on the weather (we close for rain) and field conditions (picked out). Please check before coming for any cancellations.

7. A port-a-john is a available for use. We also have hand wipes and hand sanitizer.

8. Children are always welcome, but they must remain with parents at all times. For their safety and the safety of other customers, no running around the field or between bushes. We also ask that you not eat food or leave your trash in the field, this attracts animals. Trash cans are available.

9. Pets are Not allowed in the field by law. Please leave your furry friends at home.

10. Closed toe shoes are highly recommended.

11. We do not keep a lost and found. Anything left behind will be thrown away.

12. The phone (937-586-8749) is for us to provide a message with picking info. We do not answer it or monitor it for messages.

Once in a Blue Moon Farm

3984 Social Row
Waynesville OH 45068

Take Social Row Rd east past Clyo Rd & past Wilmington-Dayton.

AlphaTrips: CHICago is CHIC again!

June 28, 2023 By Joshua Stucky

It’s time to travel again….and even though I use AlphaTrips to highlight cities and towns close to our beloved Dayton, it’s time to TRAVEL beyond. 4 and a half hours from Dayton’s city center is one of America’s great big cities…CHICAGO! Flanked by the beauty of Lake Michigan, highlighted by the amazing skyscrapers, filled with world-class hotels and dotted with more parks than you can shake a stick at…Chicago is vibrant again. Gone are the annoying masks, plastic dividers, and spacing that kept us all at bay. Back is an oasis for shoppers, a playground for water lovers, and a fulfillment for music and art aficianados.

“The trick is to take what the media says with a grain of salt.” Says Mischa K, a local food vendor and lifelong dweller. “We are facing what all big cities are facing. This need to make everyone feel that Netflix is better than the Lincoln Park Zoo. I mean, come on!” Mischa is not alone. While visiting the Windy City, I chatted it up with others…sentiments the same! “Magnificent Mile has seen some closures, but all-in-all, the street is packed with visitors, and you can’t find a restaurant with availability.” Says Fred H. “I dunno, I keep hearing the same stories about Miami, NYC and LA….so we are in good company.” laughs Dan D. “You adjust. You find a way to make the new way of doing things a better way of doing things. We are still Midwest…people are still as friendly as it gets here!”

For me and the gang I traveled with, we found a ton to do! Plopping ourselves at the Viceroy on State Street…we were near the beating heart of the town. A short walk to Michigan Ave. and you could feel it…life is BACK! On the streets families with popcorn, lovers holding hands and obnoxious drivers laying on their horns in hopes they get much needed attention! Shopping felt good…no clicking Amazon for a new shirt, but rather, trying it on…and having the clerk find a better size…HEAVEN! (By the way, Ralph Lauren’s POLO on Michigan is a must now….WOW…packed and pretty!!) Starbucks three level signature store is bit much, but its worth a drop in. To be real, I was more interested in finding the old hotels with those dimly lit bars, and amazing Old-Fashioneds…and they didn’t disappoint! (Champagne stops are a good idea as well.)

The Aquarium, the zoo, the beach, the pier…all in full-swing and ready to take on your family with new sites to see as well. And, honestly, is there any city near us with a more diverse collection of architecture!! STUNNING STUFF! One place I always enjoy is Andersonville. Filled with shops from the sublime to the silly, the area boasts a lot of great variety. Take a minute to grab a drink at Lady Gregory’s, Farragut’s or Hopleaf Brewery! Feeling adventurous? Sneak into Simon’s (Oldie but goodie)!

Dining is also back in Chicago. We ate dinner at Somerset, a patio restaurant, with great people-watching in the Gold Coast. After dinner, take the elevator to the 18th floor to Devereaux…this pool-side party place is inviting and sophisticated. Of course, I could list dozens of places to find food, and everyone would have an opinion how right or wrong I was…with that, I will say, there is something for everyone in Chi-Town! (We loved grabbing a coffee at Whispers and sitting in the triangular garden among the college kids and locals.)

It’s time peeps! Grab your pet (they were everywhere)…pack your car (or just buy everything there)…and put on your walking shoes (we averaged 15,000 steps a day)….and head NorthWest(ish) to one of America’s Best….the city of BIG SHOULDERS….CHICAGO!

Concerts By Candlelight In Dayton

June 26, 2023 By Guest Contributor

Candlelight invites you to experience the magic of these spellbinding concerts that celebrate some of music’s most iconic artists from both the past and present. By combining breathtaking live music with a sea of flickering candles, Candlelight is offering a unique experience for music lovers to enjoy in a stunning Dayton venue.

Dayton Masonic Center’s rich history and amazing acoustics make the venue the perfect setting to host this series of magnificent Candlelight concerts. Choose from a range of spectacular performances before taking your seat in a serene setting that glimmers with the glow of hundreds of flickering candles.

Candlelight Dayton: A Tribute to ABBA

For all you “Dancing Queens”, Candlelight has a special tribute in store for you—all about celebrating the music and legacy of the Swedish supergroup ABBA. Since winning Eurovision with “Waterloo” in 1974, their catchy songs have resonated with fans across the world, making them one of the most successful bands of all time. Their success increased in the late 1990s with the release of Mamma Mia, a world-renowned stage musical adaptation of ABBA’s songs, which would then be adapted into two top-grossing films.

ABBA are without a doubt one of the best-selling music acts in the history of popular music. Listening to their iconic songs such as, “Fernando”, “Chiquitita” and “SOS” at a stunning location bathed in the glow of candlelight is truly an experience unlike any other.

Candlelight Dayton: A Tribute to Queen

Get ready to go radio ga ga over this magnificent Candlelight tribute to the one and only Queen. Their anthemic songs and theatrical performances have captivated the hearts of music fans from all over the world since their inception back in the ’70s, influencing countless up-and-coming artists along the way.

Do the fandango to “Bohemian Rhapsody” and snap your fingers to “We Will Rock You” as a string quartet performs these fabulous hit songs and more. Fans of the rock band can enjoy Queen’s biggest tunes in the stunning Dayton Masonic Temple that’s ready to be lit up by the glow of hundreds of flickering candles.

Teen Summer Connect: Activities for your teen in July

June 22, 2023 By Amanda Delotelle

Teen Summer Connect: Activities for your teen in July

Organized by cost category (free, under $15, over $15) then listed by date within the category.

FREE

Dayton Metro Library – Southeast Branch
Program: MOVIE
Freedom Day Matinee: Independence Day
7/1 from 1:30PM – 4:00PM
Grade 7-12
Registration not required

Dayton Metro Library – Northwest Branch
Program: MANGA
AniManga Club
7/3 from 5:00PM – 7:00PM
Grade 7-12
Registration not required

Dayton Metro Library – Burkhardt branch
Program: HANGOUT
Legos, Games & More
7/3, 7/10, 7/17, 7/24, 7/31 from 4:00PM – 5:30PM
Grade 7-12
Registration not required

Dayton Metro Library – Southeast branch
Program: ART
Art Workshop for Tweens and Teens
7/3, 7/6 from 2:00PM – 4:00PM
Grade 5-12
Registration is required

Dayton Metro Library – Southeast branch
Program: GAME
Ultimate Escape room
7/3 – 7/8 from 9:30AM – 6:00PM
Grade 7-12
Registration not required

Dayton Metro Library – Southeast branch
Program: HANGOUT
Teen hangout en Español
7/3, 7/17, 7/24, 7/28 from 4:00PM – 6:00PM
Grade 7-12
Registration not required

Dayton Metro Library – Northwest Branch
Program: HANGOUT
Teen hangout
7/6, 7/13, 7/20 from 5:00PM – 7:00PM
Grade 7-12
Registration not required

Dayton Metro Library – West Branch
Program: HANGOUT
Teen hangout
7/11, 7/18, 7/25 from 3:00PM – 5:00PM
Grade 7-12
Registration not required

Dayton Metro Library – E.C Doren Branch
Program: MANGA
AniManga Club
7/5 from 3:30PM – 4:30PM
Grade 7-12
Registration not required

Dayton Metro Library – Northwest Branch
Program: STEM
Interactive Storytelling & Web Design
7/5 from 5:00PM – 6:00PM
Grade 7-12
Registration not required

Dayton Metro Library – Burkhardt Branch
Program: GAME
Would you Rather?
7/6 from 4:30PM – 6:00PM
Grade 7-12
Registration not required

Dayton Metro Library – Southeast branch
Program: HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Wellness Week
7/10 – 7/15 – all day
Grade 7-12
Registration not required

Dayton Metro Library – Southeast branch
Program: MOVIE
Shark Week Movies: featuring Jaws
7/10 from 5:00PM – 7:15PM
Grade 7-12
Registration not required

Dayton Metro Library – Northwest Branch
Program: STEM
Architecture & Design
7/10-7/14 from 2:00PM – 5:00PM
Grade 7-12
Registration is required

Dayton Metro Library – Southeast branch
Program: MOVIE
Shark Week Movies: feathering Jaws 2
7/11 from 5:00PM – 7:00PM
Grade 7-12
Registration not required

Dayton Metro Library – Southeast Branch
Program: MOVIE
Shark Week Movies: Finding Nemo
7/12 from 3:00PM – 4:45PM
Grade 7-12
Registration not required

Dayton Metro Library – Southeast Branch
Program: MOVIE
Shark Week Movies: The Meg
7/13 from 5:00PM – 6:45PM
Grade 7-12
Registration not required

Dayton Metro Library – Southeast Branch
Program: MOVIE
Shark Week Movies: Featuring Shark Tale
7/14 from 3:00PM – 4:30PM
Grade 7-12
Registration not required

Dayton Metro Library – Southeast Branch
Program: MOVIE
Shark Week Movies: Featuring Aquaman
7/15 from 2:00PM – 4:30PM
Grade 7-12
Registration not required

Dayton Metro Library – West Branch
Program: FUTURE
Resume Workshop for Teens
7/12 from 2:00PM – 4:00PM
Grade 7-12
Registration not required

Dayton Metro Library – E.C. Doren Branch
Program: CRAFT
Craft Corner – Button making
7/12 from 3:30PM – 4:30PM
Grade 7-12
Registration not required

Dayton Metro Library – Southeast Branch
Program: FUTURE
Jump Start Your Future
7/13 from 4:00PM – 7:00PM
Grade 7-12
Registration not required

Dayton Metro Library – Burkhardt Branch
Program: GAME
Game on: Gamer’s Night
7/13 from 4:30 PM – 6:00PM
Grade 7-12
Registration not required

Union Sportsman’s Alliance Dayton
Program: SPORTS
Take Kids Fishing Day
7/15
Ages 2-15
Registration appreciated, free fishing poles to first 100, free lunch.

Dayton Metro Library – Southeast Branch
Program: CRAFT
Craft Week
7/17 -7/22 – All Day
Grade 7-12
Registration not required

Dayton Metro Library – West Branch
Program: CRAFT
Teen DIY
7/17 from 6:30PM – 7:30PM
Grade 7-12
Registration not required

Dayton Metro Library – West Branch
Program: HANGOUT
Teen Hangout
7/18 from 3:00PM – 5:00PM
Grade 7-12
Registration not required

Dayton Metro Library – E.C. Doren Branch
Program: HANGOUT
Teen Hangout
7/19 from 3:30PM – 4:30PM
Grade 7-12
Registration not required

Dayton Metro Library – Northwest Branch
Program: PRIDE
Grade 7-12
Rainbow Alliance
7/20 from 4:00PM – 5:00PM
Registration not required

Dayton Metro Library – West Branch
Program: HANGOUT
Summer Surprise Session
7/22 from 4:00PM – 5:00PM
Grade 7-12
Registration not required

Dayton Metro Library – Southeast Branch
Program: GAME
Life Size Chess
7/24-7/29 – All Day
Grade 7-12
Registration not required

Dayton Metro Library – West Branch
Program: CRAFT
Teen DIY: Make-It Monday
7/24 from 6:30PM – 7:30PM
Grade 7-12
Registration not required

Dayton Metro Library – West Branch
Program: HANGOUT
Teen Hangout
7/25 from 3:00PM – 5:00PM
Grade 7-12
Registration not required

Dayton Metro Library – West Branch
Program: FUTURE
Jump Start Your Future
7/25 from 4:00PM – 7:00PM
Grade 7-12
Registration not required

Dayton Metro Library – E.C. Doren branch
Program: STEM
Fun Experiments with Electricity
7/26 from 3:30PM – 4:30PM
Grade 7-12
Registration not required

Dayton Metro Library – Southeast Branch, West Branch
Program: HANGOUT
National Teen Lock-In at the Library
7/28 from 5:30PM – 9:00PM
Grade 7-12
Registration is required

Dayton Metro Library – Southeast Branch
Program: GAME
Outdoor O’clock
7/31 – 8/5 – All Day
Grade 7-12
Registration not required

Dayton Metro Library – West Branch
Program: MANGA
AniManga Club
7/31 from 6:30PM – 7:30PM
Grade 7-12
Registration not required

UNDER $15

Dayton Art Institute
Program: CRAFT
ARTventure
7/8 at 1:00 PM
All ages
Cost: Youth $5, Adult $15, Registration is Required

5 Rivers Metropark – Cox Arboretum
Program: STEM
Radio Telemetry
7/8 from 4:30PM – 6:30PM
Age 10-17
Cost: $3, Registration is Required

5 Rivers Metropark – Huffman MetroPark
Program: SPORTS
Youth Mountain Biking Skills Clinic
7/25/23 from 1:00PM – 5:00PM
Age 9-16
Cost: $15, Registration is Required

5 Rivers Metropark – Cox Arboretum
Program: STEM
Water Chemistry
7/29 from 2:00PM – 4:00PM
Age 10-17
Cost: $3, Registration is Required

OVER $15

Dayton Recreation & Youth Services Camp – Northwest Rec Center & Lohrey Center
Program: GENERAL
Urban Adventures Summer Camp
6/5-7/28 from 9:00AM – 4:00PM
Age 6-12
Cost: $80/week, Registration is Required

YMCA of Greater Dayton Camp
Program: LEADERSHIP
Leadership and Teamwork – Teens in Action
6/5-7/28 (multiple weeks available) from 9:00AM – 4:00PM
Ages 12-16
Cost: $130/week for Y members, $160/week for non-Y members
Registration is Required

Dayton Art Institute Camp
Program: ART
Teen Museum guide
7/10 – 7/14 9:00AM – 3:00PM
Grade 7-9
Member Youth: $175 / Non-Member youth: $190, Registration is Required

K12 Tejas Gallery Camp
Program: ART
Radical Sculptures & Mini Diorama
7/10 – 7/14 from 9:30AM – 3:00PM
Grade 6-8
Cost: $350, Registration is Required

K12 Tejas Gallery Camp
Program: ART
Glass Sampler
7/10-7/14 from 9:30AM – 3:00PM
Grade 9-12
Cost: $350, Registration is Required

K12 Tejas Gallery Camp
Program: ART
Monotype Printmaking & Portfolio Development
7/10 – 7/14 from 9:30AM – 3:00PM
Grade 9-12
Cost: $350, Registration is Required

K12 Tejas Gallery Class
Program: ART
Drawing & Oil Painting
7/14 from 9:30AM – 12PM
Age 13 +
Cost: $60, Registration is Required

K12 Tejas Gallery Class
Program: ART
Glass Mosaic Lanterns Part 1
7/14 from 12:30PM – 3:00PM
Age 13 +
Cost: $80, Registration is Required

Black Box Improv Camp
Program: ART & THEATRE
Black Box Improv’s Kidprov Summer Camp
7/17-7/21 from 9:00AM – 3:00PM, Performance 7/22 @ 6:00PM
Ages 13-17
Cost: $350, Registration is Required

Dayton Art Institute Camp
Program: ART
Creature Feature
7/17 – 7/21 9:00AM – 3:00PM
Grade 7-9
Member Youth: $175 / Non-Member youth: $190, Registration is Required

K12 Tejas Gallery Camp
Program: ART
Manga, Comic, and Fantasy
7/17 – 7/21 from 9:30AM – 3:00PM
Grade 9-12
Cost: $350, Registration is Required

K12 Tejas Gallery Camp
Program: ART
Photography Bootcamp
7/17 – 7/21 from 9:30AM – 3:00PM
Grade 6-8
Cost: $400, Registration is Required

K12 Tejas Gallery Camp
Program: ART
Wheel Throwing & Pottery
7/17 – 7/21 from 9:30AM – 3:00PM
Grade 6-8
Cost: $350, Registration is Required

Five Rivers Metropark – Eastwood Metropark
Program: SPORTS
Youth Kayaking – Whitewater
Ages 14-18
7/19 – 7/20
Cost: $90, Registration is Required

K12 Tejas Gallery Class
Program: ART
Stained Glass (Thursday)
7/20, 7/27 from 9:30AM – 12:00PM
Age 13 +
Cost: $60 per class, Registration is Required

Dayton Art Institute
Program: ART
Transformation
7/24 – 7/28 9:00AM – 3:00PM
Grade 7-9
Member Youth: $175 / Non-Member youth: $190, Registration is Required

K12 Tejas Gallery Camp
Program: ART
Linoleum & Monotype Printmaking
7/24 – 7/28 from 9:30AM – 3:00PM
Grade 6-8
Cost: $350, Registration is Required

K12 Tejas Gallery Camp
Program: ART
Art Design & Technology
7/24 – 7/28 from 9:30AM – 3:00PM
Grade 9-12
Cost: $400, Registration is Required

K12 Tejas Gallery Camp
Program: ART
Jewelry Making
7/24 – 7/28 from 9:30AM – 3:00PM
Grade 9-12
Cost: $350, Registration is Required

TheaterLab Dayton Camp
Program: ART & THEATRE
Seize the Day! A YouthLab Cabaret
7/24-8/4 from 9:00AM – 3:00PM (After Care Available)
Ages 10-17
Cost: $350, Registration is Required

K12 Tejas Gallery Class
Program: ART
Glass Sampler
7/28 from 9:30AM – 12:00PM
Age 13 +
Cost: $80, Registration is Required

Dayton Art Institute Camp
Program: ART
Make Your Mark
7/28 – 8/4 from 9:00AM – 3:00PM
Grade 7-9
Member Youth: $175 / Non-Member youth: $190, Registration is Required

Do you have a teen-centric camp, class or other engagement activity in July you’d like to promote? Please post it in the comment section below!

Drinks with Dignitaries at the Neon’s Patio Parties!

June 20, 2023 By Joshua Stucky

Nothing says summer like a patio, a bar and bunch of friends! For the Neon Movies, the time has come to turn their patio into the Place to Be Seen! Starting this Friday, June 23rd, the Neon Movies kicks off its Summer Patio Parties with special guests, The Boys Behind the RubiGirls! “Last year, we started having our board members on the patio serving beers and popcorn and just having a good time with the community. This year, we want to continue that and add even more energy!” says Jonathan McNeal, the Neon‘s manager. “We are ready for some vibrancy at this busy corner.” (5th Street and Patterson.)

RubiGirls to kick-off parties on 6/23.

The theater, which sits just outside the Oregon District, is a beloved treasure in the Dayton Community. Having parties on the patio can only enhance its charm. “We have such a great beer selection. And it is ever-changing. Of course, we have favorites like Sam Adams Cherry Wheat, Goose Island Neon Beer Hug, Shiner Box Peach Wheat Ale, and a local gem (From Springfield) Mother Stewart’s Disco Dancer. And there is more than beer at the Neon! There is also wine and plenty of other options!” McNeal shared that DORA being expanded could be a great boost to business. “I think people will more easily see that it it reaches outside of 5th Street. That’s good for us!”

Dayton’s Beloved Neon!

The patio parties are scheduled to run through August, but….”If the momentum is good, we will go on into the Fall.” McNeal added. Popcorn, a DJ and even some upcoming trivia will take part at the events. What really stands out is the guest hosts this summer. “We have plenty of fun hosts and hostesses. Mark Allan (Channel 2) and his wife Lisa; Our County Commissioners, Judy Dodge, Carolyn Rice and Debbie Lieberman; Juliette Fromholt (WYSO); Sabrina Cox (Haus of Sequins); Brian and Mark Sharp; Michael Roediger (DAI); Former Mayors Rhine McLin and Nan Whaley. Just to name a few.”

The Parties start at 5:30pm pm on scheduled Fridays and end at 7:30pm. All parties are weather permitting. And since our weather has been anything but normal, keep in mind the Neon sells their fabulous Hoodies and Tees!! Also of note, the Neon is also exploring the idea adding an awning to the patio in the future. (Great donation opportunity!)

Barbie comes in July!

Beyond rubbing elbows with Dayton’s Dignitaries, the Neon, is of course, a cinema. Like other art forms, the theater can engage the community in many ways. This summer looks promising for movies as well. Asteroid City is opening this weekend, (the new Wes Anderson film); the much anticipated Barbie arrives in July; The League, which highlights Dayton’s role in the Negro leagues and Miracle Club which stars favorites Laura Linney, Maggie Smith and Kathy Bates.

Mark your calendars! Enter the Velvet Ropes! Plop under an Umbrella! Enjoy the Patio Parties at the Neon!

The Neon Movies is located at 130 East 5th Street. Plenty of Parking across the street at the former Greyhound Lot. For more information call 937.222.8452. or neonmovies.com

If You Love Theatre, Dayton Has Plenty Of Options!

June 15, 2023 By Dawn Roth Smith

If you are looking for entertainment, the Dayton Theatre scene has you covered.

Beavercreek Community Theatre will open Twelfth Night this weekend. It’s a funny, funky musical interpretation of a Shakespeare classic romantic comedy about mistaken identity and self discovery. Directed by Matt Owens, with Musical Direction by Charles Larkowski, this show will run through June 25th.

Over at The Dayton Theatre Guild, the intense drama Hedda Gabbler, Directed by David Shough continues through Sunday, and is not to be missed. Returning from her honeymoon, Hedda finds herself already bored of her husband, and longing for the days when she was free to exercise her wild and independent whims. With the return of an old flame and a proposition from an amorous judge, she begins a dangerous game, amusing herself by manipulating and destroying everyone around her in an attempt to regain control of her life.

Brian Sharp brings the touching play, The Interview to the Westminster Dinner Theatre, which is sold out.

Over at The Dayton Playhouse the campy, not for the easily offended Evil Dead, The Musical directed by John Detty takes the stage Friday, June 16 and runs through Sunday June 25.

Five college students go to an abandoned cabin in the woods, and accidentally unleash an evil force that turns them all into demons. It’s all up to Ash (a housewares employee, turned demon-killing hero), and his trusty chainsaw to save the day. Blood flies. Limbs are dismembered. Demons tell bad jokes…and all to music. This show is rated R.

South of town you’ll find Cyrano de Burger Shack, directed by Jim Brown and Rob Breving at Springboro Community Theatre.

Cyrano is king of the local Burger Shack, but he can’t seem to win the love of his best friend, Roxanne. When Roxanne confesses her crush on the new burger-flipper, Christian, Cyrano decides that playing Cupid is better than sitting out of the game. An updated, modern-day version of Edmond Rostand’s Cyrano de Bergerac, this rollicking musical features hit contemporary pop songs that will have audiences cheering

Sunday In The Park With George at Middletown Lyric Theatre. Sunday in the Park with George, merges past and present into beautiful, poignant truths about life, love and the creation of art. The days leading up to the completion of his most famous painting, A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte, Georges Seurat is struggling to make meaningful art and maintaining a relationship with his lover, Dot. Seurat’s artistic ability thrives while his love diminishes. This weekends shows are sold out, but tickets remain for June 23 & 24.

The Human Race continues INDIGO, a world premiere musical making its debut run at The Loft Theatre from June 7-25. Beverly braces for chaos when her mother is diagnosed with dementia and moves in with her and her husband. But when her daughter, a non-speaking autistic teenager, crashes back into her life, Beverly must confront her past mistakes and work to repair the bonds of trust and family. INDIGO is a powerful and heartfelt musical about accepting the mistakes our parents make and challenging ourselves to repair our own.

This powerful and heartfelt musical about breaking through is quickly winning over the hearts of audiences.

Flag Day – Facts About Our American Flag

June 14, 2023 By Dayton937

Today the American flag turns 246. Here are some fun facts and common misconceptions about the iconic emblem.

In 1916 Pres. Woodrow Wilson proclaimed June 14 as the official date for Flag Day, and in 1949 the U.S. Congress permanently established the date as National Flag Day. Although Flag Day is not an official federal holiday, Pennsylvania celebrates the day as a state holiday. Each year the U.S. president delivers an address that proclaims the week of June 14 as National Flag Week, and all Americans are encouraged to fly U.S. flags during that week.

It’s safe to say that most Americans know that the flag hanging in their home has 50 stars representing the 50 U.S. states. You probably also know that it has 13 stripes, but the reason why is a little less self-evident.

The original flag, created in 1776, was designed with 13 stars and 13 stripes to represent the 13 American colonies. Since then, there have been 27 versions of the American flag, according to the National Flag Foundation. The red represents valor and bravery; white represents purity and innocence; and blue represents vigilance, perseverance, and justice.

Federal law states that the flag should be displayed only between sunrise and sunset. However, you can display the flag for all 24 hours if you use lighting to ensure that it can be seen in the dark, the National Flag Foundation says.

According to U.S. Code, you should never let the flag touch the ground or water. The flag is often flown at half-staff during periods of mourning or national days of remembrance. A few other notable rules say you should never: display a flag upside down (except during times of dire distress or danger); carry it flat or horizontally; or use it as wearing apparel, bedding, or drapery.

Although many consider burning the flag a sign of disrespect, that’s not always the case. In fact, the National Flag Foundation notes that this is actually the preferred way to dispose of an American flag that is damaged or worn beyond repair. The U.S. Flag Code says, “The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning.”

Six American flags have been planted on the moon.

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The image of Buzz Aldrin on the moon with an American flag is one of the most iconic photos in American history. The U.S. planted the first flag on the moon during the Apollo 11 mission in 1969. Since then, five more U.S. flags have been planted on the moon during subsequent missions.

Betsy Ross is a phony

Betsy Ross is considered an American hero, known for creating the American flag.

The story says that she lobbied Gen. George Washington to change the design, giving us the historic mock-up we’ve come to know and love.

The truth is there is ZERO proof that this ever happened, although it is taught to elementary school children as history. Ross is more in line with American mythic legends Paul Bunyan and Johnny Appleseed than historic figures like Clara Barton or Benjamin Franklin.

When Alaska and Hawaii become states 49 and 50, President Eisenhower received thousands of ideas for an updated flag. Robert G. Heft, a 17-year old high school student from Ohio, submitted his version that he created for a class project, and it was accepted and remains in use today. Can you believe that Robert got a B- on his project?

In 1958, there was a contest to come up with a new flag that represented how the country had grown. Then-17-year-old Robert G. Heft of Lancaster, Ohio, submitted a design to the contest, which President Dwight Eisenhower chose from over 1,500 other submissions.

Marc Leepson, author of “Old Glory, Flag: An American Biography,” wrote, “Every historical study has come to the same conclusion. There’s no good historical evidence that she did. But that doesn’t mean she didn’t. There’s simply a lack of documentation. Most historians believe the story is apocryphal.”

President Woodrow Wilson, in a ceremony recognizing the first national observance of Flag Day, was asked about his thoughts on Ross.

He replied, “Would that it were true!”

Turns out Betsy Ross is the biggest lie your kindergarten teacher ever told you (except that Bubbles the class gerbil was moving to a farm upstate).

Library of Congress

After a tragedy like September 11^th, 2001, or a death like Abraham Lincoln, the flag is flown at half staff for 30 days as a representation of the whole nation being in a state of mourning It’s called ‘half staff’ on land, and ‘half mast’ on a ship.

The flag’s gone through several make overs

Before the flag’s current 50-star design, there were a number of versions, some wackier than others.

The Bennington flag was flown in the Battle of Bennington in 1777 by Nathaniel Fillmore, grandfather of President Millard Fillmore. Some dispute that this actual flag was flown at the battle, or that Fillmore actually flew it, but it remains a popular design today.

Mkaristos/Wikimedia

A number of “Great Star flags” were designed in the 19th and 20th centuries. The most famous was proposed in 1818 for use in the Navy but was rejected by Congress.

Public Domain/Wikimedia

Color illustration of Fremont’s Rocky Mountain Flag, raised by officer and explorer John C. Fremont on the highest peak of the Wind River Chain.

Kean Collection/Getty Images

This concentric circle design came out in 1877, with the addition of Colorado to the Union.

Public Domain/Wikimedia

The current designer got a B-minus for his idea

The designer of our current flag was a 17-year-old Boy Scout named Robert Heft. What did this talented teen get in return for creating the iconic look? A grade of B-minus.

Heft’s teacher asked students at Lancaster High School in Ohioto design a new 50-star flag, after Hawaii and Alaska joined the Union. Robert arranged it with five rows of six stars and four rows of five stars, spending 12 and a half hours sewing the flag.

His teacher said the design was unoriginal and gave him the mediocre grade, but offered to raise it to an A if the design was accepted nationally. So Robert wrote to his congressman and the rest is history.

And when his flag was adopted on July 4, 1960, his teacher changed his grade to an A.

Old Glory belonged to a sea captain

Old Glory is one of the most popular nicknames for the flag, along with the Stars and Stripes and the Red, White and Blue. The phrase is not just a generic nickname; it is actually the name of a specific flag, a 17-foot by 10-foot banner that still hangs in the Smithsonian National Museum of American History.