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Tattoo Fest Dayton features over 100 World Renowned Tattoo Artists

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Tattoo Fest Dayton is here for a weekend of tattoo artists all coming together to tattoo the public and celebrate the art of tattooing! The Festival will host over 125 tattoo artists and vendors exhibiting their work and competing in contests with over 20 categories. Competitions will be for healed tattoos as well as competitions each day for tattoos done at the Festival.

Tattoo Fest Dayton is excited to add a new chapter to the legacy of the art and tattoo culture of Dayton, while celebrating some of the best local tattooers, as well as bringing returning and new artists to showcase the amazing city.

The organizers  believe that everyone deserves to experience the incredible artistry and vibrant culture of the tattoo community. To make this possible and to celebrate with all of you, they’ve decided to make admission to Tattoo Fest Dayton completely FREE for all three days.


Nationally and Internationally recognized tattoo artists will be set up for the public to browse and collect tattoos! Reality tattoo stars from some of your favorite tattoo reality television shows will be on hand tattooing and able to be seen working their craft live, in front of attendees of the festival. Artists have already started booking in advance, but plenty will be accepting walk up tattoos. To find your perfect artist, go to https://daytontattoofestival.com/artists/attending-artists/. Do it quickly before they are booked solid for the entire weekend.

They will also be hosting the Worst Tattoo Competition, sponsored by Removery – the World’s Largest Tattoo Removal Company. A free to enter competition, attendees can show off bad or regrettable tattoos they have, with the winner receiving a free removal package from Removery, who has over 150 locations in the United States, Canada, and Australia.


The Festival also features vendors ranging from oddities to clothing and makers of all kinds. This event is open to the public and family friendly.

Tattoo Fest has organized events in over 20 cities across the United States in our first four years, and has 13 total Festivals scheduled for this year. Tattoo Fest Dayton is presented by Tattoo Fest and the Explorer Tattoo Conference – the world’s largest educational tattoo conference.

Dayton Tatoo Fest

Dayton Convention Center
119 E 5th St, Dayton, OH 45402-2405
Friday: 12PM – 10PM
Saturday: 11AM – 10PM
Sunday: 11AM – 7PM

Dayton At Work and Play: Duohome

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I find that stores run by artists tend to be interesting places, so after dropping my art off at the Springfield Museum of Art I visited Duohome (149 W Jefferson St, Springfield, OH).
I first visited the building back in 2016 to tour the art studio of Vicki Rulli and her husband Tom Heaphey. They bought an old industrial building in Springfield and then opened Itinerant Studio. It is a production art studio that sells art to designers, hotels and boutiques all over the world. Their work is beautiful. The black & white photo shows Tom and Vicki back in 2016.
During the pandemic the couple started renovating areas of the building that hadn’t been used. Two years ago, they opened Duohome. Vicki was there and I asked her to describe the store and how it came about.
“We’ve been selling to the design trade since 2008 with showrooms in New York, High Point and Atlanta. The brands we’re selling here have been our friends and colleagues, people selling alongside us at the same shows. We think of this as a “Lifestyle Store” and it’s modeled after how we live our own life.”
“Every single product that comes into DUO HOME must follow our “Four Goods”. They must be made by a good company that treats their employees well, have intentional and good design, be made with good materials, and have a good story to tell.”
Then Vicki started telling me some of the good stories of some of her products – about the employee-owned Ohio furniture company and the third-generation Danish company and others. I was reminded of my friend London Coe who sells chocolate from all over the world. If I ask about a chocolate bar, she can tell me about the person who made it and how it was made and the history of chocolate in that part of the world.
So, when you’re headed to Springfield to see the members’ show at the Springfield Museum of Art, check out Duohome and let Vicki show you some good products with good stories.

Dayton at Work & Play: Busy Beaver Arts & Crafts

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Visit to Busy Beaver Arts & Crafts (3445 Dayton Xenia Road)
A friend recently suggested I visit this store. “I went to the store looking for buttons” she told me. “They had quite a few buttons and everything you’d need for any craft project – ribbons, beads, yarn, patterns, sequins, material, and stained glass supplies. They also have stained glass classes with a one year wait list.”
I remembered I’d visited the shop about eight years ago at the suggestion of an artist friend. She thought I’d find all the art supplies photogenic.
When I visited for the first time, “the yarn lady” showed me around. “This is the ribbon room. Here is the counted cross stitch room. Here are some of our yarns, including a lot of novelty yarns. These are our miniatures, and everything you need to build your own doll house. These are supplies for people who fix clocks, and here are quilting supplies. Our art supplies department is over there.”
I remember that the store was so packed that it was hard to back up far enough to get a photo. Now I can use my iPhone, which lets me take closer photos.
When I visited this time, I met Danielle and asked her if anything had changed since I last visited. She said that their fused glass classes and fused glass supplies were new. As we talked, Danielle was working on a fused glass craft. She said she’d paint a face on each of the small pieces she was cutting out. Then, after the pieces were fused, she’d glue them onto small magnets.
Danielle also told me the store had a new owner – the daughter of the couple who started the business over 30 years ago. She came back to Dayton over ten years ago to work in the business and then recently became the owner.

Dayton Brewer Elected President of Ohio Craft Brewers Association

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The member breweries of the Ohio Craft Brewers Association elected seven representatives to their 11 member board of directors. Jason Moore of Crooked Handle Brewing Company was chosen by membership to succeed Alan Szuter of Wolf’s Ridge Brewing as president of the association’s board. Moore, whose brewery has locations in Springboro and Piqua, was first elected to the board in 2022 and subsequently elected vice president in 2024.
Moore is the Ohio Craft Brewers Association’s sixth president since its founding in 2007, following Szuter, Collin Castore of Seventh Son Brewing, Chris Alltmont of Fat Head’s Brewery, Eric Bean of Columbus Brewing Company and John Najeway of Thirsty Dog Brewing. Szuter is term-limited after serving on the board for six years, the last four as president.

Upon assuming the president’s seat on the board on Aug. 1, Moore takes over Szuter’s duties as a public advocate for the Ohio craft brewing industry, in addition to leading the board’s work behind the scenes.

clockwise from top left: Jason Moore – Crooked Handle Brewing Company, Adam Benner – Land-Grant Brewing Company, Melissa Dallas – Upside Brewing, David Lentz – Cartridge Brewing, Ann Zofchak – Red Wagon Brewing/Four Paws Brewing, Kelly Montgomery – Third Eye Brewing Company, Janae Chaney – Rhinegeist, Carmone Macfarlane – The Phoenix Brewing Company

Sitting treasurer Adam Benner of Land-Grant Brewing in Columbus was elevated by membership to vice president for the remainder of his final term on the board. Secretary Melissa Dallas of Upside Brewing in Sylvania was re-elected to another two-year term in the position. David Lentz, co-owner of Cartridge Brewing in Maineville, was elected treasurer for his first term of board service.

Carmone Macfarlane of The Phoenix Brewing Company in Mansfield reclaimed her board seat for a third and final term. Janae Chaney of Rhinegeist and Kelly Montgomery of Third Eye Brewing were both elected to their first terms on the board, representing the Cincinnati area for the state association.

Aspasia Lyras-Bernacki of Penguin City Brewing Company in Youngstown stepped down from the board earlier this year. The association’s executive committee appointed Ann Zofchak of Red Wagon Brewing/Four Paws Brewing in Columbia Station to serve the remainder of Lyras-Bernacki’s term.

In addition to Szuter, Bobby Slattery of Fifty West Brewing Company in Cincinnati also completed his third and final two-year term of board service in July.

“Alan Szuter’s steady and thoughtful leadership has been invaluable to our industry over these past four years,” said Mary MacDonald, executive director of the Ohio Craft Brewers Association. “As our breweries adjust to the challenges of a mature market, having leadership that represents the diversity of brewery businesses will help our organization serve them all, large or small, urban or rural, long established or just starting up.”

Even with changes in board leadership, the association’s top priority continues to be the push for reform of the Ohio Alcoholic Beverages Franchise Act, a law that traps small and independent breweries in lifetime contracts with beer wholesalers. When that law was passed in 1974, beer wholesalers needed protection from the power and influence of a handful of massive brewing conglomerates. Small breweries did not exist in 1974, but more than 430 are currently operating in Ohio. Meanwhile, wholesalers have consolidated through mergers and acquisitions to become large, powerful companies. Franchise law makes these small, independent breweries subject to the same virtually unbreakable contracts as their huge competitors, creating an imbalance of power between small breweries and the wholesalers they rely on to grow their businesses.

Two bills have been introduced in the Ohio General Assembly this year – Senate Bill 23 and House Bill 194 – which would exempt small and independent breweries from franchise law. The Ohio Craft Brewers Association and its leadership continue to support these bills and urge legislators to pass this common-sense modernization of state law in order to benefit small businesses, local communities and beer consumers.

Founded in 2007, the Ohio Craft Brewers Association is a nonprofit guild that exists to promote, preserve, diversify and unify Ohio’s craft brewing industry. We aspire to be recognized as the industry leader at both state and national levels for preserving the art of making high-quality, unique craft beer; to serve as the unified voice for craft brewers across the state; to advocate on behalf of the Ohio craft beer industry; to contribute to systemic, local community development by driving economic and job growth, while creating experiences that bring people together; to promote safe, responsible enjoyment of Ohio craft beer; and to serve as a beacon for local production and manufacturing through craft beer, resulting in diverse choices for consumers.

 

Wild Hearts is now an Accredited Arboretum!

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Wild Hearts African Farm was awarded accreditation as an arboretum, making it the first accredited arboretum in Preble County. This recognition comes through a Level I Accreditation by The ArbNet Arboretum Accreditation Program and The Morton Arboretum for achieving standards of professional practices deemed important for arboreta and botanic gardens. The ArbNet Arboretum Accreditation Program is the only global initiative to officially recognize arboreta at various levels of development, capacity, and professionalism. Wild Hearts African Farm is now also recognized in the Morton Register of Arboreta, a database of the world’s arboreta and gardens dedicated to woody plants.

Founded in 2014, Wild Hearts African Farm is a nonprofit Humane Certified™ zoo and now an accredited arboretum located in Lewisburg, Ohio. Our mission bridges animal conservation with land stewardship, emphasizing the role that farmers—both locally and globally—play in protecting ecosystems. The farm is home to over 85 animals representing 35 species, and its landscape includes a variety of native trees, some of which predate the organization’s founding. These trees serve as living reminders of the fragility of native tree populations and the urgent need for conservation and restoration. As an arboretum, Wild Hearts functions as a museum for trees, highlighting biodiversity and honoring the cultural, ecological, and historical significance of woody plants in our region.

The development of the arboretum will be ongoing, with future plans including a campaign to enhance accessibility across both the arboretum and zoo. The campaign will also invite the community to take part in planting trees, installing interpretive signage and benches, and helping with arboretum upkeep. Seasonal events will celebrate the arboretum’s growth, including special programming for Arbor Day and nature-focused educational experiences throughout the year.

“As an educational zoo, we’ve always believed in connecting people to animals and nature. Earning arboretum accreditation allows us to grow that mission—our grounds will now serve not only as a haven for wildlife, but also as a living classroom that helps guests understand the importance of trees, conservation, and global land use,” said Amanda Badger, founder of Wild Hearts African Farm.

Amanda Badger, Founder

About Wild Hearts African Farm
Wild Hearts African Farm is a nonprofit Humane Certified™ farm, zoo and arboretum in Southwest Ohio. We provide interactive educational experiences that connect guests to wildlife, conservation, and agriculture. We are proud supporters of farmers and livestock producers and advocate for sustainable land practices both locally and in Africa. Our zoo and arboretum serve as a hub for empathy, curiosity, and community connection through hands-on learning and nature-based programs. https://wildheartsafricanfarm.org/

Wild Hearts African Farm & Petting Zoo

7010 Jordan Rd.
Lewisburg, Ohio 45338

937-416-5520

Walk-in Hours:
Fri & Sat 11am – 3pm

Last admission 2pm!

DCDC Launches 57th Season with Free Community Celebration

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Dayton Contemporary Dance Company (DCDC), one of the nation’s leading contemporary dance companies, will transform its outdoor and indoor spaces into a free family-friendly block party on Sunday, August 10 from 2:00-6:00 PM.
What could be more fun than a free event with Dayton Contemporary Dance Company dancers, staff, family, friends and community? DCDC kicks off the season by opening its doors and partying like no other. Take a journey through DCDC’s spaces where the magic begins, see DCDC’s unparalleled dancers in performance, get up and line dance with DCDC dancers. There will be great food, special activities planned for children, music to groove to, local vendors and more. And best of all, DCDC will give away book bags filled with school supplies just in time for the school year.
“This season, when we say you are family, we mean it, and this free community event is our show of appreciation for your support and love of our performances, arts engagement programming, and our presence in the Gem City,” said Debbie Blunden-Diggs, Chief Executive & Artistic Director.
For 57 years, the Dayton community has affirmed, through its continued support, that it loves, values and honors the work begun by DCDC founder Jeraldyne Blunden. Dayton holds in high esteem the fact that wherever DCDC performs, this contemporary dance company continues to represent the best of Dayton, Ohio. With Street Beats Community Daze, Chief Executive & Artistic Director Debbie Blunden-Diggs, wants the community to know, DCDC is forever grateful for past, present and future support, and that we are prouder than ever to be born of, nurtured by and living in the Gem City.

Dayton Porchfest is back on August 16th

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Dayton Porchfest. Photo by Libby Ballengee

Getting that sinking feeling that the summer is over? Not so fast! We have one of the biggest music festival events of the year happening on Saturday, August 16th: Dayton Porchfest.

“Dayton Porchfest celebrates the breadth and depth of the Dayton music scene, while the porch and backyard venues allow the performers and the audience to deeply engage,” organizer Peter Benkendorf shared with us. “The diversity of the line-up means there is something for everyone. Throw in some food trucks, a beer garden and a family-friendly environment, all wrapped up in the charm of the St. Anne’s Hill Historic District, and you have all the makings for one of Dayton’s most popular summer events.”

Dayton Porchfest was founded in 2017, inspired by the original Porchfest, which was started in 2007 in Ithaca, NY and Larchmere Porchfest in Cleveland, which began in 2009. Today there are over 200 Porchfests throughout the United States and Canada, with Dayton being the 94th to join this growing movement.

Dayton has a rich musical history and active music scene that continues today. Dayton Porchfest is committed to reflecting that diversity in its selection of musical artists, from funk and blues to indie rock and jazz, classical and country, to bluegrass and old-timey music with deep Appalachian traditions here. The festival also celebrates the ethnic diversity of the region, a reflection of our “Welcome Dayton” spirit that has contributed to a significant influx of immigrants and refugees over the past decade.

Dayton Porchfest is an initiative of The Collaboratory, a civic innovation lab that moves ideas to action. The Collaboratory provides infrastructure for people and organizations to collaboratively develop community initiatives that generate new economic, civic and creative opportunities and value. The result is a healthier, more thriving region. All proceeds from Dayton Porchfest go to support the work of The Collaboratory.

Event Details:

When: Saturday, August 16, 2025, 12:15 – 6:45 PM
Where: St. Anne’s Hill Historic District, Dayton, Ohio
Cost: Free and family-friendly

Schedule:

  • 12:15 – 12:45 PM: Pre-Porch Kick-Off with T.R.S.S. Drum Corps
  • 1:00 – 6:45 PM: Main event – “If this porch is rockin’ then please come a knockin'”
  • 7:00 – 9:00 PM: Afterfest at Levitt Pavilion Dayton
  • 7:00 – 10:00 PM: Music at Fifth Street Brewpub

Tips for attending:

  • Bring water and stay hydrated
  • While the streets are tree-lined, you can bring shade with you with a hat and/or sunglasses
  • This is a walking event, so please wear comfortable shoes
  • Please bring cash to tip the performers

For more information and to view the interactive map of participating porches, visit www.daytonporchfest.org.

Lucho All-Day Taqueria & Espresso Bar Now Open

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Get ready to kick off your day—or wind it down—with tacos, burritos, bowls, espresso, and mezcal! Lucho, a new fast-casual mezcal and espresso bar is now open in the Dayton Arcade.

Drip Coffee and Espresso available for $3. Flavored coffees and lattes $5 – $7

Breakfast taco’s run $5.

For lunch or dinner Burrito bowls and salads are $9. Add chips and salsa for $, chips and queso or guacamole for $8,

Desserts range from $4 -6.

Lucho

in the Dayton Arcade
37 W. Fourth Street
Dayton, OH 45402
Open  7am – 9pm Mon – Fri
(for now)
Pictured right:
Chicken Breakfast Taco and Spiced Chai
(photo by Sarah Caplan)

Remembering the Victims of the Oregon District Mass Shooting

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Today we remember the nine lives lost in the tragic Dayton shooting that happened on August 4, 2019, in Oregon District, resulting in nine fatalities and 27 injuries.  Police reported that all the fatalities occurred outside the bar on East 5th Street.
  • Lois Oglesby, 27
  • Megan Betts, 22
  • Saeed Saleh, 38
  • Derrick Fudge, 57
  • Logan Turner, 30
  • Nicholas Cumer, 25
  • Thomas McNichols, 25
  • Beatrice Warren-Curtis, 36
  • Monica Brickhouse, 39 
The incident began at 1:07 AM local time, near the intersection of East Fifth Street and Patterson Boulevard, in the heart of the Oregon District. Betts was armed with a .223-caliber rifle and high-capacity magazines. The quick response of law enforcement is credited with preventing further casualties.
The gunman, Connor Betts, was killed by police within a minute of opening fire. The shooting happened in the early hours of the morning in a popular entertainment area.
A memorial, known as the “Seed of Life”, was created in the Oregon District to honor the victims and support the community in their healing process. The memorial was a collaboration by Terry Welker, Jes McMillan, Sierra Leone, and James Pate and contains multiple components, including a stainless steel sculpture of nine leaves and a unity bench. But the most notable component might be the multi-colored mosaic. An estimated 5,000 people contributed to putting tiles in it.

It’s Opening Day for Cowvin’s Corny Maze

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Cowvin, the baby of the Cow Family, has created a family fun maze at Young’s Jersey Dairy. The maze is created from more than 9 acres of cornfield and has over one mile of paths.

The maze is open 11am everyday (weather dependent) to around 6pm to give the last group at least an hour before it starts getting dark to find their way out through  November 2nd.

Cowvin’s Corny Maze goes through our cornfield and has many twists, dead-ends and tricky twists. It’s an adventure! At the end of the maze, you’ll be greeted with a playland full of activities for kids to celebrate! There are  9 acres of cornfield and 1 mile of paths to explore.

The price is $10/person age 5 and older. Age 4 and under are free. Children age 11 and under must be accompanied by an adult.  Price includes a wagon ride to and from the maze. Tickets can be purchased at the the Young’s Farmstead Cheese Marketplace in The Dairy Store.

3 Car Lovers Events This Weekend

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Get ready to shift into gear for a day of chrome, classics, and community at these 3 area Car Cruise-Ins! Whether you’re a gearhead, a casual admirer, or just looking for a fun day out, these events have something for everyone. Stroll through rows of vintage rides, muscle cars, hot rods, and custom builds—each with a story and style all its own.

Enjoy the chance to meet fellow car lovers who share your passion for all things on wheels.

Sat, Aug 2 8 – 11am Cars and Coffee

Austin Landing 10050 Innovation Drive, Miamisburg

Join SW Ohio’s most passionate car enthusiasts with this nationally recognized gathering. As the largest Cars and Coffee gathering in the state of Ohio, we welcome them to our beautiful development, restaurants, and hotels to experience what Austin Landing has to offer. The gathering is open to everyone. From exotics to classics and vintage iron to tuned cars.

Sat, Aug 2 9am – 4pm British Car Day

Eastwood MetroPark 1385 Harshman Rd, Dayton, OH

Eastwood MetroPark 1385 Harshman Rd, Dayton, OH
Aston Martins, Jaguars, Spitfires, Landrovers, Minis old and new, MG Midgets and many more
2025 is the 40th anniversary of the Midwest’s best British car & motorcycle show!
The “British Car Day” at Eastwood Metropark in Dayton is a popular vote car show, vendors & swap meet, with a full service concession stand, children’s activities, vendors selling memorabilia and British car part and more. Show goes rain or shine. Free event, open to the general public.

Sun, Aug 3 11am – 3pm Gears & Beers – Cruise-In

Loose Ends Brewing 890 South Main Street, Centerville

Gears & Beers rolls back in for another Sunday packed with vintage rides, muscle machines, and modded marvels—all alongside your favorite food, cocktails, and beers from the taproom.

Cruise-In Car Show featuring classic, custom & collector vehicles
Full kitchen + bar open with craft beer, cocktails, and great eats
Family-friendly vibes with patio seating and plenty to see

Whether you’re showing off your wheels or just here to admire the lineup, it’s a day of horsepower and hops you won’t want to miss.

Ohio Sales Tax Holiday Aug 1 – 14

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This year’s Ohio Sales Tax Holiday runs from Aug. 1-14, giving you the opportunity to purchase qualifying items in-store and online without paying state sales tax.

If you’re looking to save some extra money, the Ohio Sales Tax Holiday is back once again for 2025, allowing shoppers “to make qualifying purchases both in-store and online without paying state sales tax.”

“The timing of this year’s sales tax holiday not only supports families preparing for back-to-school, but also provides relief on other important household needs,” Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said in a press release earlier this year.

So what’s included and exempt during Ohio’s 2025 Sales Tax Holiday?

“Almost all tangible personal property priced at $500 or less is tax-free,” according to Gov. DeWine’s office.

Need examples? Here’s a list from the Ohio Department of Taxation of some items that will be tax-free during this period:

  • Electronics: Computers, televisions and other gadgets
  • Clothing: Any apparel items
  • Books: All types, including novels and textbooks
  • Home goods: Furniture, kitchenware and home décor
  • Plants: Indoor and outdoor plants
  • Sporting goods: Equipment and apparel for sports
  • Food and beverages: Dine-in food, dietary supplements and soft drinks

“Many other items will also be exempt from sales tax during this period,” according to the Ohio Department of Taxation.

WHAT ITEMS ARE EXCLUDED?

The following items will still be taxed during the Sales Tax Holiday:

  • Watercraft or outboard motors
  • Motor vehicles
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Tobacco products
  • Vapor products
  • Items containing marijuana

WHAT ABOUT ONLINE SHOPPING?

Yes! Qualifying items purchased online will also be tax-free.

Here’s how the Ohio Department of Taxation explains it:

“Qualified items sold to consumers by mail, telephone, e-mail or internet shall qualify for the sales tax exemption if the consumer orders and pays for the item and the retailer accepts the order during the exemption period for immediate shipment, even if delivery is made after the exemption period.”

Shipping and Handling

  • If all items in a shipment qualify as eligible items and the sales price for each is within the sales tax holiday price threshold, the shipping and handling charges are not taxable.
  • If the shipment includes exempt items and taxable items, the seller should allocate the shipping and handling charges by a percentage based on the total price of the taxable items to the total price of all the items in the shipment. The retailer must charge tax on the portion of the shipping and handling charges allocated to the taxable items in the shipment.

CAN A STORE / SELLER CHOOSE NOT TO PARTICIPATE?

No. The states says the sales tax holiday is set by law “and vendors must comply.”

WHAT’S THE $500 PRICE LIMIT?

Items selling for $500 or less will be tax-free.

“If an item sells for more than $500, tax is due on the entire selling price,” according to the Ohio Department of Taxation.

WHAT ABOUT EXCHANGES AND RETURNS?

Here are the three points you need to know from the Ohio Department of Taxation:

  • If a consumer buys an eligible item during the sales tax holiday and later exchanges it for the same item, the retailer should not charge sales tax even if the exchange is made after the end of the sales tax holiday.
  • If a consumer buys an eligible item during the sales tax holiday and returns the item after the tax holiday period for credit on the purchase of a different item, the retailer must charge sales tax on the sale of the newly purchased item, even if it would have been eligible for the exemption during the sales tax holiday.
  • If a consumer buys an eligible item before the holiday period but returns the item during the sales tax holiday period and receives credit on the purchase of a different item of eligible property, no sales tax is due on the sale of the new item. The retailer must provide the consumer credit for both the purchase price and sales tax paid on the item being returned.

HAVE MORE QUESTIONS?

The Ohio Department of Taxation answers 31 total questions regarding the Sales Tax Holiday HERE.

Dayton at Work and Play: Tony & Pete’s

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Visit to Tony & Pete’s (129 East Third)
This sandwich shop opened in 2022, but this was our first visit. I decided I wanted to try it when I heard that their business was growing so fast that they had rented the shop next door. They’ll bake bread and do some of their prep work and their catering work there while customers continue to order and eat at the original shop.
I ordered their Stretto’s spicy salami sandwich featuring salami, parmesan, arugula, spicy spread and Calabrian honey. My wife chose Turkey Pesto, which has turkey, mozzarella, house pesto, roasted red peppers and arugula. The sandwiches were delicious and large – more than we could finish. We decided that next time we’d split one sandwich and then walk to Val’s Bakery for a dessert.
There’s quite a bit of seating inside, but we chose the patio and watched a steady stream of customers enter. In addition to the sandwiches, they have salads and a few grocery items.

I read that Tony & Pete’s was started by a husband-and-wife team that met at Wright State. Like many of us they worked part-time during college. By the time they graduated they had moved up to food service management positions and decided to stay in that industry. They worked in well-known restaurants in Cincinnati, in New York and finally in Chicago. When the pandemic hit they moved back to Dayton and started planning their own business here.

The business has been growing rapidly, and Tony & Pete’s says they may soon be expanding to new locations.

Local Court Offers Fee Reduction Week

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Dayton Municipal Court and the Clerk of Court’s Office will offer a 50% discount on eligible court fees, fines, and costs during Fee Reduction Weeks, scheduled for August 4 to August 15, 2025. This discount applies to most court-related financial obligations, excluding certain fees like those related to OVI, photo enforcement, parking tickets, and others. 

  • Dates: August 4 – August 15, 2025. 
  • Discount: 50% off eligible fees, fines, and costs. 
  • Eligibility: Must pay the reduced fees in full during the designated period. 
  • Payment Options: Payments can be made online at PayMyFine.org or in person at the Dayton Municipal Court. During the Fee Reduction Weeks, the reduced fees must be paid in full to qualify for the discount; payment plans are generally not included in this program.
  • Excluded Fees: OVI-related fees, photo enforcement fees, parking tickets, filing fees, restitution, and probation fees. 
The Fee Reduction Weeks are intended to help individuals with outstanding court debt to pay off their obligations and get a fresh start, according to the Clerk of Court’s Office. 
The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) also offers payment plans for reinstatement fees, which may require court approval or have specific eligibility criteria, including insurance requirements and minimum payment amounts.
This program, part of the Reinstatement Fee Debt Reduction and Amnesty Program, helps drivers who have met all other reinstatement requirements but are still burdened by outstanding fees. 
Here are the key requirements to qualify for the BMV payment plan:
  • Owe at least $150 in reinstatement fees: The payment plan is specifically for individuals with a significant amount of outstanding reinstatement fees.
  • Met all other reinstatement requirements: You must have completed all other requirements to reinstate your license, such as serving your suspension period, completing any required remedial courses, or providing proof of insurance, except for paying the fees themselves.
  • Show current proof of insurance: You will need to provide valid documentation of your car insurance.
  • Not currently under suspension or have pending suspensions: Your driving privileges should not be suspended at the time of application, nor should you have any pending suspensions that would affect your ability to drive.
  • Not currently on a court-ordered payment plan: If you are already on a payment plan established by a court for your reinstatement fees, you won’t be eligible for the BMV payment plan. 
You can find more information about these plans on the Ohio BMV website

Smashburger’s $4.99 “Summer of Smash”

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Smashburger® is turning up the heat this summer with a new menu built on bold flavors, culinary craft, and unbeatable value. The “Summer of Smash” celebrates Smashburger’s iconic culinary swagger and signature smashing technique, while delivering premium quality at a price that respects the wallet.

Smashburger® Turns up the Heat with New “Summer of Smash” Menu

The lineup showcases a range of craveable new offerings like All-Angus Big Dogs, Loaded Sides, the return of the fan-favorite Smoked Brisket Bacon Smash and more. Designed to elevate the art of the Smash, the new menu leans into premium ingredients, creative innovation, and the taste obsession that made Smashburger a household name.

“Smashburger was built on the iconic, craveable technique of the OG Smash, and with this menu, we’re building on our culinary legacy, focusing on quality, flavor and innovation,” said Tom Ryan, Co-Founder of Smashburger. “These elements have always been the driving forces of our brand, and now with ‘Summer of Smash,’ we’re taking the love of craveable great taste to the next level.”

Introducing the $4.99 All-The-Time Menu
For the first time ever, Smashburger is launching a nationwide $4.99 All-The-Time Menu that delivers unbeatable value while staying true to the iconic sear and flavor Smashburger is known for. Featuring the All-American Burger, Deluxe Burger, and the new Americana Big Dog, this menu redefines expectations of what’s possible with Certified Angus Beef® and Angus Beef – making premium, crave-worthy quality more accessible than ever.

Meet the All-Angus Big Dogs

Smashburger’s new All-Angus Big Dogs are made with 100% Angus Beef and weigh in at a quarter pound each. Split and butter-grilled, they’re served on a toasted New England roll and topped with bold, great-tasting classics. Options include:

  • Americana Big Dog: Ketchup, mustard, sweet relish, diced red onions
  • Bacon Cheese Big Dog: Applewood smoked bacon, creamy cheese sauce, aged shredded cheddar
  • Chili Cheese Big Dog: Creamy cheese sauce, all-beef chili, aged shredded cheddar
  • Chili Cheese Jalapeño Big Dog: Creamy cheese sauce, all-beef chili, aged shredded cheddar, jalapeño slices

Go Big with Loaded Sides
It’s not just about the entrées. Celebrating a love for bold flavor freedom and endless variety, Smashburger is taking fan-favorite sides – like SmashFries, Smash Tots, Crispy Brussels Sprouts and more – to the next level too. Guests can now make loaded sides a reality, by adding cheese, bacon and cheese, chili cheese, or chili, cheese, and jalapeños to any other side, creating 32 different combinations.

Additional “Summer of Smash” Highlights

  • Smoked Brisket Bacon Smash: Back and better than ever, the Smoked Brisket Bacon Smash features authentic Texas smoked brisket, slow smoked for over 14 hours using hardwoods for rich, deep flavor. Served on a soft, buttery Parker House Roll, this burger delivers a smoky experience that’s sure to satisfy both new and returning guests.
  • Create Your Own: A new way to fully customize the burger experience! From bun to protein, cheese, toppings, and more, guests now have unlimited possibilities to build their perfect smash burger, just the way they like it.
  • The new Chilled Chicken Chef Salad is a fresh, tasty, and protein-packed option for guests, while the new Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Shake handspun with premium Häagen-Dazs® ice cream is the perfect cool-down treat.

“With this new menu launch, we’re expanding our offerings to bring standout variety to the table, without ever compromising on the taste, quality, and value that define our brand,” said Jim Sullivan, President at Smashburger. “Whether you’re craving something classic or bold, our new lineup offers something for everyone, all at a price that keeps us more than competitive.”

Starting today, guests can enjoy the new $4.99 All-The-Time Menu and other limited time “Summer of Smash” items at Smashburger restaurants nationwide. For more information about Smashburger and its new menu offerings, please visit www.smashburger.com.

Smashburger Locaions:

2315 Miamisburg Centerville Rd., Dayton, OH 45459

1200 Brown St., Suite 190, Dayton, OH 45409

6731 Miller Lane, Dayton, OH 45414

What You Need to Know To Enjoy The Dayton Celtic Festival

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Dayton’s largest festival drawing nearly 100,000 people each year is this Friday – Sunday at RiverScape Metropark.  Plan an amazing weekend and support The Dayton Celtic Festivaland a celebration of Celtic culture. The free festival takes place rain or shine and festival hours are 5:30 to 11 p. on Friday, from 11:30 am to 11 pm and Saturday and 10 am to 6 pm on Sunday. All beverage sales are cashless at the festival.  Square terminals are located at all beverage locations to accept credit/debit cards and Apple Pay and Google Pay. There are over 20  food vendors onsite and they do accept cash and may also accept credit/debit cards. ATMs are located near the Information Booth at the corner of Patterson Blvd and Monument Ave. Festival organizers ask that you please leave your dogs at home this weekend.

PARKING
Two parking garages will be available including Main Street (110 N. Main Street) and Water Street Parking Garage (403 Water Street). Parking meters on the perimeter of the festival grounds will be designated forhandicapped parking. Additional handicapped parking will be available at the Water Street Parking Garage.

FREE PARKING & FREE SHUTTLE at The Dublin Pub
FREE SHUTTLE will take you to and from The Dublin Pub and the festival with no additional stops. It leaves at the top of the hour and on the :30 from The Dublin Pub, and the :15 and :45 of the hour from the festival and will operate Friday, Saturday and Sunday. There is plenty of free parking surrounding The Dublin Pub

Entertainment Schedule

Pass the hat collections will occur often at the main stage and periodically at all stages. You can also donate anytime during the festival at headliner merchandise sales table at the main stage. You can also donate at each beverage sales station as you purchase your beverages.

Friday, July 25

Gaelic Storm’s storytelling, thrilling instrumentals, and devotion to traditional Celtic music have captivated their legion of fans over the last 20 years.

United Irish Main Stage

6:00-7:20pm JigJam (Ireland)
7:40-9:00pm Socks in the Frying Pan (Ireland)
9:30-11:00pm Gaelic Storm

WHIO TV / WHIO Radio Traditional Stage

6:00-7:00pm Dogwood Road
7:20-8:20pm Fialla
8:40-9:40pm Davy Holt (Scotland)
10:00-11:00pm The Drowsy Lads

Emerald Isle Stage

6:00-6:30pm Celtic Academy of Irish Dance
7:00-7:30pm McGovern Irish Dance
8:00-9:15pm Dulahan
9:45-11:00pm Father Son and Friends

Saturday, July 26

Bluegrass and American Folk music originated from the group’s home, and now JigJam is here to take it back!

United Irish Main Stage

12:00-1:00pm Dulahan (ASL)
1:30-2:30pm Davy Holt (Scotland)
3:00-4:00pm JigJam (Ireland)
4:30-5:40pm The Drowsy Lads
6:00-7:20pm Socks in the Frying Pan (Ireland) (ASL)
7:40-9:00pm JigJam (Ireland)
9:30-11:00pm Gaelic Storm

WHIO TV / WHIO Radio Traditional Stage

12:00-1:10pm Roving Rogues
1:30-2:00pm Miami Valley Pipes & Drums
2:20-3:10pm Dogwood Road
3:40-5:00pm Kennedy’s Kitchen (ASL)
5:30-7:00pm Davy Holt (Scotland)
7:30-9:00pm The Drowsy Lads
9:30-11:00pm Socks in the Frying Pan (Ireland)

One of the most sought after groups in Irish music today, the worldwide ‘Sock Invasion’ continues!

Emerald Isle Stage

12:00-1:00pm Jameson’s Folly
1:20-1:50pm St. Andrews Highland Dancers
2:10-2:40pm Celtic Academy Adults
3:00-3:30 Dwyer Irish Dance
3:50-4:20pm Miami Valley Pipes and Drums
4:40-5:10pm McGovern Irish Dance
5:30-6:00pm Celtic Academy of Irish Dance
6:30-7:30pm The Pints
8:00-9:15pm Father Son and Friends (ASL)
9:45-11:00pm 9 Castle Close

Sunday, July 27

United Irish Main Stage

10:00–11:30am Irish Gaelic Mass (ASL)
12:00-1:40pm JigJam (Ireland)
2:10-3:50pm Socks in the Frying Pan (Ireland)
4:20-6:00pm Gaelic Storm (ASL)

WHIO TV / WHIO Radio Traditional Stage

12:00-1:20pm na Skylark

The Lads deliver a performance steeped in traditional roots with a fervor that leaves audiences wanting more.

1:40-2:50pm Kennedy’s Kitchen
3:10-4:20pm Davy Holt (Scotland) (ASL)
4:40-6:00pm The Drowsy Lads

Emerald Isle Stage

12:00-12:30pm McGovern Irish Dance
1:00-1:30pm Dwyer Irish Dance
1:50-2:20pm Celtic Academy of Irish Dance
2:50-4:20pm Father Son and Friends
4:50-6:00pm Dulahan

Cultural Workshops (Tent 1)

Saturday
1:00 Cú & Craic Irish Wolfhounds of Southwest Ohio – Irish Wolfhounds in Legends and Lore
2:00 Cindy Thomson – An Innocent Irish Girl Sent to an Asylum
3:00 Cathy Jo Smith – Scary Stories
Sunday
12:00 Cú & Craic Irish Wolfhounds of Southwest Ohio – Irish Wolfhounds in Legends and Lore
1:00 Kirsten Dilger | Genealogist
2:00 Cathy Jo Smith – Tales of the Irish Heart: Stories of Love and Redemption
3:00 Cindy Thomson – The Ancient Saints of Ireland
4:00 Clan Stewart

Cultural Music Workshops (Tent 2)

Saturday
2:30 Larry Fortson – The Uilleann Bagpipe
3:30 Nancy Keyser, The Riley School of Irish Music – Have some Fun with the Irish Tin Whistle
4:30 Intro to Irish Music – Dan McKewen
5:30 Randy Clepper – The Irish Bouzouki
Sunday
1:30 Larry Fortson – The Uilleann Bagpipe
2:30 Intro to Irish Music – Dan McKewen
3:30 Randy Clepper – Irish Music Accompaniment

Browse the Celtic Marketplace featuring over 40 vendors with unique items from the Celtic nations. The  Celtic Marketplace stretches the length of Monument Avenue in the heart of the Dayton Celtic Festival. Celtic shopping options run the spectrum from stoneware to kilts to jewelry and more.