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10th Annual 5k for Kelli

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Presented by the Breast Wishes Foundation
Join us in remembering the life of Kelli James and honoring all the breast cancer survivors, the fighters and the love ones we’ve lost. 100% of proceeds go to granting wishes for women with breast cancer through the Breast Wishes Foundation. 

The 5k for Kelli Run/Walk is a super fun event for the whole family. It is a 3.1 mile out and back course that begins and ends next to Wegerzyn Gardens and winds along the beautiful Stillwater River. Because Kelli loved fairies, we encourage everyone to dress up in tutus, wings, and flower crowns. No fairy gear? No problem! We have everything you need at the merchandise tent with all proceeds going to Breast Wishes Foundation. We also offer free fairy face painting and colored hair spraying!
Registration and Merchandise tents will open at 7:30 am.

Event Fees: Registration only $25! (Register by August 7th to guarantee a super-soft and comfy t-shirt)

Online registration ends on August 16th, sign up in person at Georges Thursday and Friday or at the event on race day.

Awards: Be sure to bring a few extra dollars to buy some raffle tickets. Our top prize is $1,000 cash!

We will give medals, pint glasses and gift cards to the Top 3 Male and Female overall and the Top 3 Male and Female in each age category.

Age categories: 19 and Under, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60 and over

Event Parking and Registration: The Flying Field at Wegerzyn, 1301 E. Siebenthaler Avenue, Dayton, OH 45414

Pre-Registration packet pick up: At George’s Family Restaurant, 5216 North Dixie Drive, Dayton, OH 45414

Thursday and Friday August 18th and 19th from 8am to 7pm

We highly recommend pre-packet pickup!

Remembering Those Lost in the Oregon District Shooting

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The FUDGE Foundation has two events planned to commemorate the anniversary of the Dayton Mass Shooting that claimed the lives of nine individuals and forever changed the lives of many members of our community. The anniversary memorial on Thursday August 4th and the HART Gala on Saturday, August 6th.

They will be honoring those who were taken on August 4th, 2019, starting at 6:00pm on Thursday, August 4th in front of Blind Bob’s. There will be community leaders present to speak about gun violence and the danger it presents in our communities, a candle lighting service, music and prayer as well as nine-minutes of silence to honor the victims who were fatally shot that night. There will also be resource guides to support those who are victims of trauma, such as mental health and support group information will also be available.

The Foundation hopes that the Dayton Montgomery County community will join us at Blind Bob’s on August 4th to show their love and support for the families and individuals that have been affected by this senseless violence

The Fudge Foundation also invites you to attend the Hart Gala (Healing Art,Through Trauma) on Saturday, August 6th. This is a black-tie affair that will celebrate a new addition to the Springfield Museum of Art. The Fudge Foundation is giving out the Derrick Fudge Memorial Scholarship, as a way for his son to honor Derrick Fudge’s memory and support a Black male student going into the crucial field of social work. There will be live entertainment, dinner and an open bar. Tickets are available for purchase online.

Celebrate Sustainable Living at Small Farm & Food Fest Aug 6th

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Five Rivers MetroParks will host Small Farm & Food Fest on Saturday, Aug. 6, from 10 am to 5 pm at Carriage Hill MetroParks, 7800 E. Shull Rd. This free, all-ages festival features hands-on activities, demonstrations, speakers and a pop-up farmers market that focuses on healthy eating and sustainable living.

Small Farm & Food Fest will offer a mix of modern-day and historical farming, gardening, food preparation, cooking, homesteading and home sustainability information.

“During the pandemic, we saw a lot of people go back to basics, whether it was baking bread from scratch or planting victory gardens,” said MetroParks education coordinator Rick Musselman. “All of these skills can help people live healthier, more sustainable lifestyles and we aim to spark and fuel those interests during Small Farm & Food Fest.”

The event will be held at the Carriage Hill MetroPark visitor center, historical farm and farm house.

  • Historical demos and workshops: From 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., festival attendees can view canned goods, heirloom vegetable and butter making displays.
  • Live animals: Visitors can learn more about the farm’s heritage breed animals and watch draft horse demonstrations.
  • Pop-up farmers market: Featuring local growers, artisans and more, the farmer’s market will feature more than 15 vendors.
  • Local food finds: Discover the importance of local produce and where to find fresh picks from the growers at the 2nd Street Market.
  • Speakers: From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., 12 local speakers will cover topics that include gardening, cooking, food prep, homesteading and more.

    • 10:00 to 10:30 AM: Curing Your Own Bacon at Home: Rick Musselman, Five Rivers MetroParks
    • 11:00 to 11:30 AM: Knife Skills in the Kitchen:
      Tim Pritchard, Five Rivers MetroParks
    • 12:00 to 12:30 PM: Baking and Cooking with Edible Flowers: Kate Lowry, Five Rivers MetroParks
    • 1:00 to 1:30 PM: Milling Your Own Grains at Home:
      Deb Spencer, Five Rivers MetroParks
    • 2:00 to 2:30 PM:  Making Homemade Beeswax Wraps: Shawna Balog, Five Rivers MetroParks
    • 3:00 to 3:30 PM: Stocking the Pantry:  Bryn Mooth, Edible Ohio Magazine
    • 4:00 to 4:30 PM: Cooking with Herbs:  Karen Purke McGuffey Herbs and Spice

    Historic Farm Barn Talks Schedule

    • 10:30 t0 11:00 AM: Caring for Rabbits: Mary Beth Hobson, Five Rivers MetroParks
    • 12:30 to 1:00 PM: How to Clean and Filet a Fish: Kelly Kingery, Five Rivers MetroParks
    • 1:30 to 2:00 PM: Start Growing Food for Fall: Betty Hoevel, Five Rivers MetroParks
    • 2:30 to 3:00 PM: Butter Making for Beginners: Jamie Burton
    • 3:30 to 4:00 PM: Caring for Chickens: Sue Nevins, Five Rivers MetroParks
  • For the family: Visitors can participate in historical games and enjoy tractor-pulled wagon rides.

Food will be available from a variety of local food trucks such as Kona Ice of Troy, Thai 1 On, Cumberland Kettle Corn, G’s Cue BBQ and El Buen Taco. Festivalgoers also will enjoy live music from noon to 4 p.m. at Carriage Hill MetroPark’s visitors center.

 

Head Out To The Greene County Fair

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The 183rd Greene County Fair begins its run Sunday, July 31, through Saturday, August 6, 2022, at the Greene County Fairgrounds, 120 Fairground Road. Xenia, OH. 

“We’ve been waiting 365 days for this.” Said Kala Benton, one of the fair’s directors. “It is amazing when you think about it. Just a couple of weeks ago here at the Greene County Fairgrounds there wasn’t much activity and now the people, animals, food trailers, vendors and rides which move in soon, it looks a little like a scaled down version of Disneyland and we couldn’t have done any of it without our dedicated staff, directors’, and volunteers. A well-oiled machine.” Benton added.

The Greene County Fair is the oldest fair west of the Alleghenies. A nice mix of rides, games, food & entertainment await fairgoers.  Plus, the 4H tradition continues with proud young people showing their prize-winning animals. 

FAIR HOURS

Our fair opens at 8am – and closes following that evening’s grandstand event.

Daily Gate Admission $8 (9 and under free with paying adult) Plus, parking is always FREE. 

SUNDAY, JULY 31, OPENING DAY ACTIVITIES INCLUDE: 

Rabbit showmanship and judging, English Horse Show & Showmanship, 4-H Show, Sheep Decorating Contest, with our opening ceremonies at the grandstands- 6pm. 

Followed by the always fun kiddie calf scramble at 7pm, then the older kids get to try their best for their calf scramble. Folks if you’ve never experienced a calf scramble, you are in for some laughs. It’s a hoot. (Please do not attempt this at home.) 

During the week we have a food drive event with a discount on admission for a non-perishable food item donation, family fun night with discounted ride wristbands, demo-derby, harness racing, truck and tractor pulls, great fair food, plus much more. (Please keep in mind our rides do not open until Monday, August 1.) 

Due to rising fuel and general increased costs, the previous announced ride wrist bands price has increased to $20. But on Family Fun Day- August 3, wristbands are just $15 after 4pm. AGAIN WEDNESDAY ONLY, all other days of ride operations, bands are priced at $20. 

On Wednesday, August 3, a special tribute will take place for the late Greene County Sheriff Gene Fischer at 5pm. Sheriff Gene was a huge supporter of our fair and he and is wife would show up early and stay late. 

Tons more information and a complete schedule of events, log on to  www.greenecountyfairgrounds.com. Follow us on Facebook, and Instagram.

Coldwater Cafe remains one of the area’s BEST!

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“I haven’t been there in a while….how was it?” since COVID, that question has been asked about everything from KINGS ISLAND to AX THROWING, THE SCHUSTER CENTER to RIVERSCAPE. One restaurant where the answer is a consistent ‘It was amazing’ is the Coldwater Cafe in Tipp City. 5 hungry men headed up 75 North on a hot day in July to see how the Cafe was doing! Hard to put into words the experience we had.

To start, imagine a 95 degree evening, sun beating on the sidewalks…you pull into to Tipp City, and like a miracle of God, the front space at Coldwater is wide open. That earns 1 star…more to come.

We were seated on time for our reservation, which has become a crapshoot for many restaurant goers. Star! From there, we were greeted by our waitress, Kelly, a longtime server for the Cafe, who got down to business immediately….martinis, wine, beer….she knew her crowd! Another Star! We ordered some appetizers, the charcuterie, which was literally a spot-on array of meat, cheese, sweets and savories. To complement, we added the mussels (one of the diners with us is a mussel snob and he gave them two thumbs way up!.) There wasn’t a morsel left from our first course. STAR!

***Out came the warm hand towels…I mean, who doesn’t love the warm hand towel!! (A Coldwater Staple!)  STAR!

As we chatted and enjoyed some wine and bread, Kelly kept us well entertained, joining our fun and adding her own take on things. When dinner arrived, seamlessly timed, 5 men were very happy. Lobster-Crab cakes were a hit! The NY Strip got rave reviews! The AHI tuna salad scored high and everyone talked, at length, about how their dinner was ‘the best!’ STAR!

Before we could ask for checks, Kelly recommended their homemade desserts….I mean, we were FULL! And then….’you must have the carrot cake’ (we did, delicious); ‘you must have the bread pudding’ (we did, home-run); and you must have the chocolate cake (we did….wowzer!). STARS!!

We sat, center of the dining room just talking about the experience! It was one of those nights when everything clicked…and that seems to be the energy of Coldwater Cafe! Solid. Scrumptious and Social. The ingredients are all there…you should be too!

STARS all around!

Here’s the new summer menu:

 

Coldwater Cafe

19 E. Main Street,
Tipp City, OH. 45371

(937) 667-0007

Tues – Thurs 11am – 8pm

Fri & Sat 11am – 9pm

Curtain UP on Starbucks at the Schuster!

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Starbucks equals Big bucks, and it holds true in their location inside the Wintergarden at the Schuster Center. The Grand Opening, July 28th, saw lines of excited guests including the downtown workforce, city residents and the curious! “We have had a nice crowd today,” said Kailey Y. of DaytonLive. For most folks, it was hard to resist the $2/drink promotional. The Schuster Center Starbucks location, which offers the entire array of products, (drinks, food, bagged coffees, etc….) has some tables in the WinterGarden for the ‘sit and study’ crowd, as well as pick up and go! (The best way to do that is to pull up on Second Street and hustle in and out of the coffee shop!)

Surrounded by the banners and ad-boards for the Schuster, the site is sure to have a positive impact on getting the word out about upcoming shows, etc. Private events are still happening at the Schuster, but to ensure Starbucks remains available, the entrance to the Performance Place will be open on those days to grant access to caffeine aficionados.

The site has been running a soft opening for some time, but the 28th of July was the BIG Moment for Starbucks fans. The site’s hours are  6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on weekends. On show nights at the Schuster Center, Starbucks will be open through the beginning of the production. Be sure and grab yourself a hot beverage and a few tickets for you and your friends for one of the upcoming events.

(Inside hint, I learned today when buying a refresher, ask it to be made with lemonade instead of water…..WOW, what difference!)

 

 

 

Grant Program Promotes Cultural Tourism with Roadside Markers

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Thanks to a new partnership between the Ohio Arts Council (OAC) and William G. Pomeroy Foundation, Ohio communities can now highlight their stories, customs, and traditions through a roadside marker grant program named Legends & Lore®.

Launched by the Pomeroy Foundation in 2015, the Legends & Lore grant program helps communities commemorate their local folklore and legends, and promote cultural tourism with roadside markers. The OAC, which funds and supports quality arts experiences to strengthen Ohio communities, has joined the grant program as a state partner of the Pomeroy Foundation. The OAC will help vet grant applications and ensure the legitimacy of the folklore proposed for commemoration.

“Encouraging cultural tourism is an important part of promoting a vibrant Ohio arts economy,” said Donna S. Collins, OAC executive director. “The Ohio Arts Council looks forward to spotlighting local folk and traditional arts and culture through Legends & Lore.”

The Pomeroy Foundation is a philanthropic organization based in Syracuse, N.Y. One of the Foundation’s main initiatives is to help people celebrate their community’s history by providing grants for roadside markers. Since 2005, the Foundation has awarded close to 1,800 grants for markers and bronze plaques in 46 states and Washington, D.C.

“We are delighted to partner with the Ohio Arts Council to bring this unique grant opportunity to the Buckeye State,” said Deryn Pomeroy, trustee and director of strategic initiatives at the Pomeroy Foundation. “The Legends & Lore marker program has already helped communities around the country commemorate the cultural traditions, customs, and stories that are important to them. Through our partnership with the OAC, we look forward to recognizing Ohio’s diverse landscape of folk and traditional arts with roadside markers.”

More than 140 Legends & Lore marker grants have been awarded by the Pomeroy Foundation since the program’s inception. In addition to Ohio, Legends & Lore grants are currently available in the following states: Alabama, Connecticut, Idaho, Louisiana, Missouri, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Vermont, and West Virginia. Prospective applicants must apply through a local 501(c)(3) organization, such as a historical society; nonprofit academic institution; or a local, state, or federal government entity.

There are two Legends & Lore grant rounds each year. The second Legends & Lore grant round in 2022 will open on Monday, Aug. 29. The deadline to submit a marker grant application during that round will be Monday, Oct. 17, 2022. Legends & Lore grant funding includes the full cost of a marker, pole, and shipping. To review program guidelines and details about how to apply online, visit the Foundation’s website: www.wgpfoundation.org/history/legends-lore/

Dayton City Commission Approves Automatic License Plate Readers

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Yesterday, the Dayton City Commission held its first public hearing to consider new police surveillance technology under an ordinance adopted in May 2021. The Commission approved the use of automatic license plate reader technology under the provisions set forth in the ordinance, which requires public notification and a public hearing before Dayton Police can acquire, use, or share data from technology that collects personally identifiable information.
Commissioner Matt Joseph led the process to write the 2021 ordinance and made this statement regarding its first usage: “I am glad we were able to put this innovative legislation into use in order to give citizens the opportunity to share their opinions of automatic license plate readers. We are certainly still refining this process and expect it to evolve moving forward. But I am very pleased that the City of Dayton has such a robust process in place to make sure that the Commission can fully weigh all of the implications of using surveillance technology and ensure that proper safeguards are in place.”
Dayton was the 20th municipality in the country to pass an ordinance laying out a public process to approve police surveillance technology. The ordinance was written in collaboration with community stakeholders and privacy advocates and passed unanimously.
The ordinance required Dayton Police to produce a surveillance impact report and a proposed use policy for the technology that was presented to the public 30 days prior to the public hearing. The City Commission then received written public comments and citizen comments at the July 20 public hearing prior to making a decision. The City Commission voted 3-2 to approve.
“This is an example of democracy at work,” said Chief Kamran Afzal. The ordinance and the process that it lays out for approval of use of new technology requires checks and balances. This allows the City and police department to bring a new tool on board with the community’s assistance, so we are working with them toward impacting crime.”
Prior to activating the mobile ALPRs, the Dayton Police Department will be conducting a close review of the concerns brought forward to the City Commission Wednesday evening. Chief Afzal will have discussions with his senior command staff to reflect on the points made and make sure the policy surrounding ALPRs is successful in the future.
If changes are made, the City and the police department will announce them publicly. There will also be announcements released to news media and City social media channels when the mobile ALPRs are scheduled to go live.
The process of using fixed-site ALPRs is much more involved than the mobile units. The Dayton Police Department will work closely with neighborhood partners and the Community Engagement Division to develop unique neighborhood safety plans. That process will allow identification of the needs surrounding neighborhood concerns and determine the best response strategies. If fixed-site ALPRs are one of the tools selected, then the procurement process will begin.

This Summer, a Once-in-a-Half-Century Party Calls Neighbors Back to South Park

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The 2001 Rehabarama of “The Weis-Leissentritt House” at 307 Oak Street was once two houses. These 1800s-era homes were updated with a unique glass-walled passageway to create one classic home with warm, comfortable living space and bold design statements.

With music, food, storytelling, and a beer garden, South Park’s Reunion Block Party celebrates its 40-year struggle to become safe, livable and inviting.
DAYTON, Oh. July 7, 2022 – On Saturday, July 30, from 3-6pm, a massive meet-up of neighbors who live in South Park or have called it home over the past forty years will gather to mark the 40-year anniversary of becoming Dayton’s largest Historic District.

In 1981, South Park’s historic landmark designation gave neighbors powerful leverage to reverse blight, combat slumlords, and drive out crime. It launched South Park’s evolution from a neighborhood of last resort to a desirable place to live.

“It’s been quite a journey,” shares Mark Manovich, president of the Historic South Park neighborhood council. “When my wife Karin and I moved here in 1992, it was known to be rough. The parents of our kids’ school friends wouldn’t allow them to come here for playdates.”

ut even then, Mark recalls, it was unpretentious and friendly with that “we’re all in this together” camaraderie. Many neighbors have become lifelong friends after bonding over alley sweeps, beautification projects, old-house repairs, grant-writing, crime-fighting, but most of all the parties.

“We have a reputation for our parties,” says event coordinator Karin Manovich. “We’ve got great stories and before-and-after pictures to share at the Reunion, along with food and drink from South Park’s own establishments.” Even the sponsoring organizations were founded by South Parkers – Square One Salon & Spa, The Brightside Venue, and The Rubi Girls.

The sense of community in South Park has always been as unique as its built environment. It brings people closer. This 150-acre area south of downtown Dayton includes 800 structures, circa 1880 to 1900, designed for people from all walks of life. “There’s no other neighborhood that we know of with housing stock like this that attracts such interesting and diverse people. Tiny cottages next to big showy Victorians, corner storefronts, and everything in between,” says Karin.

The 2001 Rehabarama of “The Weis-Leissentritt House” at 307 Oak Street was once two houses. These 1800s-era homes were updated with a unique glass-walled passageway to create one classic home with warm, comfortable living space and bold design statements.

As with any inner neighborhood, South Park’s work continues. But it’s time to hit pause and celebrate. Says Karin, “We want everyone to enjoy their share of credit for taking a chance, investing the sweat, money and emotion it takes to create a neighborhood that feels like family.”

HOW TO CELEBRATE: Plan to meet up with old friends and neighbors, bring a lawn chair, enjoy the party, take a stroll, and congratulate yourself for helping make South Park a place to live kindly, fearlessly, and prosperously.

Who: South Parkers past and present, and all who have contributed to the neighborhood’s recovery (City staff, contractors, Rehabarama partners, AIA architects, former Community Based Police Officers, preservationists, patrons of our tours, plays and festivals) and those interested in the neighborhood today.

What: South Park Reunion Block Party is a free event presented by the Historic South Park neighborhood council, Square One Salon & Spa, The Brightside Venue, and The Rubi Girls.

When: Saturday, July 30, 3-6pm

Where:  The Gazebo and Boulevard at Park Drive (near Wayne Avenue). Park at Oak Street Health (Wayne & Wyoming), Hope Lutheran Church and Emerson Academy (both at Perrine & Hickory).

Sonic Springs Benefit Concert features Talib Kweli, Cloud Nothings, Monograms & more!

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On Friday, July 22nd, 2022 at 7:00 pm The Brightside in Dayton, OH will host a benefit concert featuring national recording artists Talib Kweli, Cloud Nothings, local DJ Fatty Lumpkin, and Brooklyn-based indie rock band Monograms. All proceeds above operating costs will be donated to the independently owned radio station WYSO in Yellow Springs.

Since its inception in 1958, the mission of WYSO has been to serve the Miami Valley and beyond with trusted journalism and artistic inspiration that improves lives and builds community. In 2023 WYSO will be moving from their home on Antioch’s campus to a new studio, including much-needed equipment upgrades and new performance spaces for live-in studio music concerts.

The event will be held under the moniker of “Sonic Springs” and is slated to be an annual concert to bring unique musical performances to the Dayton area. The event is being curated and produced by Eric Mahoney, a filmmaker/producer best known for directing the feature documentary Brainiac: Transmissions After Zero. Eric and his family recently moved to Yellow Springs from Brooklyn, NY.

 

HOW TO GO?

Friday, July 22nd, 2022 at 7:00 pm

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

Food truck on-site: Phat & Rich

Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sonic-springs-a-benefit-concert-for-wyso-tickets-304403126947

City of Dayton Housing issues Can Be Monitored Online

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Dayton residents and property owners can now monitor the progress of reported housing issues on a newly launched online portal found here.  Housing complaints may be found by entering an address or by clicking on locations displayed on an interactive map.

The tracker displays the nature of the housing issue, the date of the original complaint, the actions taken by City staff and more information. The records displayed on the tracker are drawn from several City of Dayton sources including the Dayton Delivers customer service app and internal databases.

In order to begin a complaint, customers are advised to use the Dayton Delivers app or to call 937-333-4800. Only reported complaints are displayed on the housing tracker.v”We want to make it much easier for neighborhood residents, property owners and others to find the status of reported housing issues,” said Todd Kinskey, Director of Planning, Neighborhoods & Development. “The housing tracker pulls together data from a number of sources to make that happen.”

New Event Space Downtown

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After years of planning (covid slowed things down) The Century Upstairs was finally revealed in an open house last night. “A unique, industrial-edgy vibe with a blank canvas interior,” is how they are describing the contemporary event space.

Last night it was staged for 70 by Prime Time Party Supply and Unlimited Events with still plenty of room for a charcuterie table, cake table and more. The room will hold up to 100 guests.

The room has beautiful hardwood floors, lofty ceilings and is accessible by stairs or elevator. Guest that rent the space can choose their own caterer and there is a staging kitchen area. Full bar service is available and packages start at $25/person for 2 hours.   You can even book a bourbon experience tasting with co-owner JoeHead.

If you are interested in booking the venue, please contact Bill Thomas or by phone at 937-620-6417.

 

“After the Levitt” concerts continue at the Arcade’s new event space – The Tank!

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The “After the Levitt” event series is a live musical experience in the Arcade, which is the hottest and most coveted space in downtown Dayton. Under the Arcade’s famous Rotunda is a newly opened underground event space, called The Tank, inspired by CenterPoint Energy. It’s a vibrant venue that provides a cool, theater-in-the-round style seating for an intimate audience experience. 

After a few select Levitt Pavilion shows this summer, The Tank opens its doors for this “After the Levitt” live music series which features up-and-coming original musicians. For music fans who want to keep the music going, the Tank’s entrance is just a half block from Levitt Pavilion. It’s an easy walk over! Just look for the Large glass subway entrance on West 4th street in Dayton between Main and Ludlow Streets. 

The series, which is hosted by Culture Works, kicked off on June 23rd with an evening of female R&B/hip-hop style singer/songwriters Anna Nichole and Mariah J. The concerts continue Thursday, July 14th with the funk-rock band Solistic. This crowd pleaser has hints of blues, reggae, and psychedelic rock influences too! The cover charge is $10 and is open to patrons over 18. Doors open at 8pm. The music starts at 8:30pm. Beverages are available for purchase at the venue.

“As the leading Arts advocate in Dayton, Culture Works aims to use the After the Levitt series as a way of activating the Arcade, and more specifically, the Tank. We want to bring cultural vibrancy back into Dayton through a space that is both new and nostalgic, memorable, and magical. Having local artists in the Tank will bring crowds together and elevate the creative arts from an individual to collective experience!” Benjamin Baugham, the Community Engagement Coordinator of Culture Works, shared with us. 

The series will continue on July 28th with a night of reggae from Luv Locz, August 4th featuring spoken word from Broken English, August 11th is a country music evening with Drift Mouth, August 25th pop rock from Pagu & Isicile,  with more dates to be announced soon!

HOW TO GO?

The Tank under the Arcade (glass cube entrance near 35 W 4th St, Dayton, OH 45402)

$10 cover charge at the door

Ages 18+

Doors 8pm

Music 8:30pm

Drinks for Sale!

Downtown Art Gallery Finds A New Home

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Come August 1st, the Edward A. Dixon Gallery, a commercial art gallery specializing in the exhibition, education, appreciation and sale of International Fine Art, will have a new home in the Opal building on N St Clair Street.

Dixon, who opened his first Dayton gallery in 2017, says he always was going to galleries and museum when he traveled and wanted to bring something that looked more like the places he was going to Dayton.

Dixon said a lot of the success of his original gallery was the ability to do events and bring people together around art.  But then the pandemic hit and his lease was up for renewal and he just wasn’t willing to take that risk knowing in person events weren’t going to happen, so he downsized to a small spot in the Talbot Tower and a bigger online presence.

Color Photograph of Dr. King (at the podium) by Bernie Kleina

He’d been keeping his eye out for a new space and when he saw the Opal building space it just spoke to him.  Just a block away from the river and built in 1900, he could already envision what his gallery would look like there. He’s excited to be able to share art from both locals and artists from around the world to the  the Dayton art scene.

Mother and Child in a Flower Field by Patrick Gono

The art you’ll find in his gallery is eclectic and ever changing. Currently you’ll find a selection of photograhs from Bernie Kleina, a civil rights and fair housing advocate. He has produced some of the most innovative and powerful audio-visual presentations on fair and affordable housing in the country. His photographic archive includes profound images of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Rev. Jesse Jackson, Andrew Young, Al Raby, Dick Gregory, and others.

You’ll also find pieces from Patrick Gono of Monrovia, Liberia who did a residency in Dayton in 2019.  is in Dayton as an artist-in-residence. He created a mural on a Front Street building, while he as here, that was  the result of his visit to Sunwatch Indian Village.

You’ll also find art by Syndey, Oh artist Maureen O’Keefe. The work pictured here   is part of a series of American flags meant to explore her own struggle to come to terms with the diversity of thought in our nation. The background features lyrics from the Woody Guthrie song “This Land Is Your Land.”

Dixon looks forward to welcoming guest back to his gallery with his grand opening on August’s First Friday celebration downtown.  His space will be available for rent for special events and he’s busy planning special exhibits for the fall. He’s currently got a call for entries out for an October exhibit he’ll be doing entitled FOCUS CAPTURE INSPIRE.

The 2nd Annual We’re Doing It ALL Wrong® Art Exhibition will open as a one month long exhibition beginning September 1, 2022. The exhibition seeks to create dialogue and spark ideas related to the many ways humanity continually fails itself.  Artwork from the previous year’s exhibition touched on topics such as the environment & climate change, dependence on technology, social injustice, Native American women disappearances and homelessness.  Many of these ways are discussed in main stream media; some only on social media and small gatherings; while others are barely spoken or purposely kept unspoken.  Artists are encouraged to submit work that captures or is a comment on a tradition, a system, a practice, an institution or anything they see that needs repair or removal that has existed in this state for far too long.  View the online version of the previous exhibition at weredoingitallwrong.com.

Another ambitious goal of the exhibition is to find a signature piece or pieces of artwork that while keeping to the exhibition’s theme defines our current period in history from the artist’s viewpoint.  One art piece can tell so many stories and the goal is to find pieces that will speak to future generations and tell a story about our time.

Award Categories Include:

  • Best in Show – $500 Prize
  • 2nd Place – $250 Prize
  • Signature Artwork – $250 Prize

Edward A. Dixon Gallery

222 N St Clair St
Dayton, OH 45402

(937) 985-2115

Located in Downtown Dayton and open by appointment 7 days a week.

7 Days of Fun at the Montgomery County Fair

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It’s true, we are 170 years young and STILL GROWING! Not only the fair, but agriculture in Montgomery County is alive and well.

The 7-day run begins with opening ceremonies Sunday, July 10, high noon!  With with rides provided by Big O’ Amusements, games, entertainment, demo-derby, Tug-A-Truck, tractor pulls, pig races, circus, music, petting zoo, and of course much more. The 170th edition offers a vast array of fair food vendors offering up just about everything to tantalize the taste buds. 

Some highlights:

SUNDAY, JULY 10

NOON – OPENING CEREMONIES

2PM, 8PM – PIG RACES

3PM – MUSIC, GOSPEL EXPLOSION 

3PM, 6PM, 9PM – CINCINNATI CIRCUS

5PM – OSTPA TRUCK/TRACTOR PULLS 

7PM – MUSIC, WOOD & STEEL REVIVAL BAND

MONDAY, JULY 11

5PM, 8PM – PIG RACES 

6PM, 9PM – CINCINNATI CIRCUS

7PM – DEMOLITION DERBY

7PM – MUSIC, 70/75 BAND 

TUESDAY, JULY 12

VETS/SENIOR CITIZEN’S DAY (HALF PRICE ADMISSION- $5)

3PM, 6PM, 9PM – CINCINNATI CIRCUS

5PM – PIG RACES

7PM – KOI DRAG RACING 

7PM – MUSIC, BERACHAH VALLEY

WEDNESDAY, JULY 13

3PM, 6PM, 9PM – CINCINNATI CIRCUS

5PM – TALENT SHOW

7PM – DCTPA TRUCK/TRACTOR PULL

5PM, 8PM – PIG RACES

THURSDAY, JULY 14

**TAKE A BITE OUT OF HUNGER DAY WITH ‘THE FOOD BANK AND WDTN/DAYTON’S CW. $2 OFF $10 admission with a donation of a non-perishable food item. Cash sales only at the main gate.

10AM – SHOW OF SHOWMAN CONTEST

3PM, 6PM, 9PM – CINCINNATI CIRCUS

3PM – BABY CONTEST

5PM, 8PM – PIG RACES

5:30PM – TUG-A-TRUCKS

7:30PM – MUSIC, BAND OF FLIGHT

FRIDAY, JULY 15

NOON – 4H HORSE DEMONSTRATION

NOON – SHOW UP & SHOW OUT DRILL TEAM COMPETITION 

3PM – BABY CONTEST

3PM, 6PM, 9PM – CINCINNATI CIRCUS

5PM, 8PM – PIG RACES

7PM – FAITH & FRIENDS RADIO DOT COM LIVE

7PM – MUSIC, FLASHBACK BAND 

7PM – DEMO DERBY

SATURDAY, JULY 16

NOON – KALEIDOSCOPE LIVE SHOW

2PM, 5PM, 8PM – PIG RACES

3PM, 6PM, 9PM – CINCINNATI CIRCUS

6PM – KING & QUEEN CONTEST

7:30PM – RODEO

THE MONTGOMERY COUNTY FAIR located at 645 Infirmary Road, State Route 35W Connector (C.J. McLin Jr. Parkway) to Infirmary Road, sharing the facility with the Arthur O’Fisher Park. 

Admission is $10 per person which includes grandstand events and plenty of free parking. Youngsters 6 and under free with paying adult. All day RIDE WRISTBANDS $25.  For more visit www.montcofair.com and follow us on Facebook & Instagram. 

Retail Lab Accepting Applications Deadline July 13

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The Downtown Dayton Partnership (DDP), along with its small business development partners, is inviting business owners to apply to the Retail Lab small business accelerator program, presented by Fifth Third Bank. Launched in 2020, the Retail Lab is an intensive 12-week experience for business owners aiming to launch or grow their first-floor business in downtown Dayton. Applications will be accepted through July 13.

The Retail Lab has two main goals: To continue energizing downtown with vibrant storefronts, and provide a supportive pathway into the downtown market for emerging first-floor entrepreneurs, especially women-owned and minority-owned businesses.

“We’re very pleased at the results this program has produced so far in its first four cohorts,” said Sandra K. Gudorf, president of the DDP. “With these new mixed-use spaces emerging, there is an opportunity to take new business ideas and budding entrepreneurs and show them the support network available in our community to grow or launch their own commercial ventures.”

Kia Wilson of Me’ Yanna Berry Co.

The Retail Lab will provide a series of workshops, focused one-on-one sessions and a public speaking event that connects the participating businesses to people, ideas, capital and resources to help them thrive and grow in downtown Dayton. Weekly workshops will include facilitated instruction and work sessions with mentors, and the program will culminate with a pitch competition.

Eligible businesses include boutiques, shops, cafes, galleries and restaurants – any consumer business that adds to the vibrancy of downtown’s sidewalks. Applicants should either be located in downtown Dayton or aiming to launch downtown in the next 6 to 12 months. Ideal applicants will have had a year or so of sales online and/or pop-up events. Interested small business owners can find more information, including the program application, at DowntownDayton.org/retail-lab. Applications for the Downtown Dayton Retail Lab will be accepted through July 13, with classes slated to begin in August. Workshops will be held in person at the DDP office at 10 W. Second St.

Owners Keon McCarroll and Shanti Sancho at the April ribbon cutting for Sole Touchers

“Since the launch of the program in 2020, the Retail Lab has graduated 37 people through the program,” said Val Beerbower, director of first-floor development and business marketing with the DDP and coordinator of the Retail Lab program. “We’re especially proud of the fact that 35 of those 37 businesses are woman-owned, and/or minority-owned businesses. We plan to continue efforts to create equitable economic opportunities through programs like the Retail Lab.”

Participation in the 12-week program is provided at no cost, and in addition to the support businesses receive through the workshops, each participant is eligible for up to $2,500 in professional services from creative, legal, and financial firms to advance their business.