The Featured Articles

35 Food Trucks Vie for $9K at Springfield Rotary Food Truck Competition

August 12, 2025 By Dayton937

The “must-taste” event of the year rolls back into Springfield this Saturday as food trucks near and far vie for supremacy at the 11th Springfield Rotary Gourmet Food Truck Competition. The regional favorite event will once again bring palate-pleasing mobile cuisine, live entertainment and fun for the entire family from 11 am to 7 pm in Veterans Park. All proceeds from the event will benefit Rotary’s various charitable causes.

“This event continues to attract wonderful food trucks, great entertainment and amazing crowds, including those who bring chairs and tents and stay all day,” said Eddie Bell, past Rotary president and Food Truck Competition marketing committee chair. “Food truck owners consistently tell us this is among their favorite events. It really is a showcase that brings out the best of the city and the region.”

Up to 30 food trucks will line the park’s path with gourmet goodies, keeping attendees fed from brunch through dinner. In addition to standard American fare, comfort foods and sweet treats, trucks will feature cultural creations from Africa, Asia, Germany, Greece, Italy, Mexico and more. In addition to beverages offered by the trucks, a beer garden will feature domestic and local craft brews from Mother Stewart’s Brewing Company, with soda and water also available for purchase.

Past champions join returning favorites and new competitors alike, putting forth their best dishes for $10,000 in prizes. The $5,000 grand prize, $2,500 runner-up and $1,500 third-place prize will be determined by local celebrity/chef judges including:

● Lisa Freeman – Chef/Owner of Crust & Company, Salato Deli and Torte & Iron Cafe

● Bryan Fuentes – Chef, Viva La Fiesta

● Clayton Horrighs – Chef/Owner of Speakeasy Ramen and Hi-Hat Social

● Doug McGregor – Chef/Owner of Seasons Kitchen

● Korge Mori – Lieutenant with the Springfield Fire Rescue Division and former operator of Ramen Rickshaw food truck; past recipient of Springfield Rotary’s Service Above Self Award

The coveted $1,000 “People’s Choice” award will be determined by attendees’ votes using the Springfield Food Truck Mobile app, available on both Apple and Android devices.

Winners will be announced on the park stage at approximately 4:45 pm Saturday.

A number of talented local musicians will perform for attendees throughout the competition, including:

● Andy Fox (11 a.m.-1 p.m.)

● Add On Room (1-3 p.m.)

● Mountain Vain (3-5 p.m.)

● KC & The Moonlighters (5-7 p.m.)

Springfield Rotary has partnered with Crafts for a Cause to host an Arts and Crafts show featuring 20 talented artisans during the competition. Attendees will be able to explore a wide variety of creative finds, from home decor and jewelry to seasonal gifts and specialty items while enjoying the food, entertainment and atmosphere of the day.

A single, large 50/50 drawing will also be held at 6 pm as opposed to multiple smaller drawings at previous events. Participants need not be present to win.

“The competition tastes, smells and sounds good, but it also does a lot of good, too,” said Bell, noting that all proceeds from sponsorships, concessions, the 50/50 drawing and other sources go towards various charitable Rotary projects.

“We’re proud to have raised more than $300,000 through this event over the past decade that we’ve reinvested throughout and beyond the Springfield community,” he said. This includes

services for people with disabilities, scholarships, local projects, the International Project in Lesotho and more.

Springfield Rotary Gourmet Food Truck Competition

Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025

11 am to 7 pm

Veterans Park (formerly known as Cliff Park)

For complete details and updates about participating food trucks, the entertainment schedule, competition and more, visit springfieldfoodtruck.com, or download the Springfield Food Truck mobile app for Android and Apple devices.

Taco Bell debuts new Mountain Dew Baja Midnight flavor

August 12, 2025 By Guest Contributor

For the first time in two decades, Taco Bell is expanding the MOUNTAIN DEW BAJA BLAST legacy with a bold new flavor: BAJA MIDNIGHT. An unexpected purple twist on the iconic tropical lime flavor fans know and love, Taco Bell’s exclusive, first-ever MOUNTAIN DEW BAJA BLAST flavor drops nationwide on August 14. As a permanent menu addition, MOUNTAIN DEW BAJA MIDNIGHT is set to unleash the next wave of MOUNTAIN DEW BAJA BLAST fandom, driven by the same passion that has defined the phenomenon since 2004.

“BAJA BLAST has consistently sparked creativity, defied expectations, and continues to be a cornerstone of the Taco Bell experience,” said Taylor Montgomery, Chief Marketing Officer at Taco Bell. “Our fans made it iconic, and they’re the reason we’re expanding the universe for the first time with MOUNTAIN DEW BAJA MIDNIGHT. It’s unexpected, it’s Taco Bell purple, and it’s tasty enough to earn its place in the fandom.”

A New Way to BAJA BLAST

Intentionally crafted to satisfy the thirst of a new generation, MOUNTAIN DEW BAJA MIDNIGHT blends passion fruit flavor with the instantly recognizable taste of MOUNTAIN DEW BAJA BLAST for an entirely new experience. This evolution builds on the MOUNTAIN DEW BAJA BLAST legacy while introducing modern flavors that reflect the vibrant tastes of today. As a part of Taco Bell’s latest wave of summer beverage innovations, fans can enjoy MOUNTAIN DEW BAJA MIDNIGHT in two distinct formats, both expertly formulated to pair perfectly with any Taco Bell order:

MOUNTAIN DEW BAJA MIDNIGHT ($2.49 small / $2.79 medium / $2.99 large)*:
Taco Bell’s first-ever evolution of the cult classic flavor, blending a refreshing blast of passion fruit flavor with the signature tropical lime flavor of MOUNTAIN DEW BAJA BLAST.

MOUNTAIN DEW BAJA MIDNIGHT Freeze ($3.79 regular / $3.99 large)*: For fans who prefer their flavor frozen, Taco Bell’s latest limited-time Freeze offers an icy spin on the MOUNTAIN DEW BAJA MIDNIGHT experience.

On August 15, Rewards Members can try a medium MOUNTAIN DEW BAJA MIDNIGHT for free when they spend $5 or more in the Taco Bell app**.

Building the Beyond

To spark the next chapter of the MOUNTAIN DEW BAJA BLAST legacy, Taco Bell is turning to the community that transformed the tropical flavor that no one can quite explain into a cultural phenomenon. Fans are invited to help define the taste of MOUNTAIN DEW BAJA MIDNIGHT by sharing their creative interpretations of the new purple beverage, laying the foundation for the next wave of MOUNTAIN DEW BAJA BLAST lore. Take it from Zach from @SnachwithZach who says the next gen MOUNTAIN DEW BAJA BLAST tastes like “a purple oasis of flavor bliss in a barren desert filled with tired, dehydrated beverages.”

The fan-fueled movement has also sparked menu innovation over the years, from the introduction of MOUNTAIN DEW BAJA BLAST Freezes and Gelato to teased sweet treats like MOUNTAIN DEW BAJA BLAST Cinnamon Twists and the highly anticipated debut of MOUNTAIN DEW BAJA BLAST Pie slated to hit menus later this year. With the permanent addition of MOUNTAIN DEW BAJA MIDNIGHT, Taco Bell isn’t just honoring the legacy – it’s inviting fans to define it on their own terms.

Adult Happy Meals Now at McDonald’s

August 12, 2025 By Lisa Grigsby

Nostalgic McDonald’s characters are making a comeback with the launch of a new limited-edition adult Happy Meal. For the first time in more than 20 years, Ronald McDonald, Grimace, Birdie, Hamburglar, Mayor McCheese and the Fry Friends are officially taking the trip out of the group chat. Fans are invited to visit the Golden Arches to grab the all new McDonaldland Meal, starting Aug. 12.

The meal features a new, limited-edition Mt. McDonaldland Shake – an ode to one of its major landmarks – that offers a secret concoction as enchanting as the world itself. It’s up to you to discover the surprise flavor. It also comes with your choice of a Quarter Pounder® with Cheese or 10-piece Chicken McNuggets®, fries and a mystery-flavored Mt. McDonaldland Shake, a nod to the fictional universe’s volcano and its blue lava and pink clouds, the announcement noted.

“There’s an entire magical world of McDonaldland filled with characters, places and lore,” Jennifer “JJ” Healan, vice president of brand, content, and culture at McDonald’s USA said in a statement. “We are taking fans on a trip to McDonaldland with an immersive experience that taps into the past to create the future.”

Ronald McDonald, Grimace, Birdie, Hamburglar, Mayor McCheese and the Fry Friends are reuniting for the meal.

The meal will include a new, limited-edition Mt. McDonaldland shake, a choice of a Quarter Pounder with Cheese or 10-piece Chicken McNuggets, fries and a collectible souvenir.

Each order will include one of six collectible tins featuring postcards, stickers and more, inspired by the various characters.

As for the limited-edition shake, the release states it was “inspired by the vibrant blue ‘lava’ and pink clouds of Mt. McDonaldland.”

Dayton at Work & Play: Busy Beaver Arts & Crafts

August 11, 2025 By Bill Franz

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.

7 Local Cooking Classes

August 11, 2025 By Lisa Grigsby

Taking a cooking class is more than just learning recipes — it’s an experience that builds confidence, creativity, and connection. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned home cook, classes offer hands-on guidance from skilled instructors who share tips and techniques you can’t always pick up from a cookbook or video. You’ll expand your palate by trying new ingredients, sharpen your knife skills, and discover time-saving tricks that make cooking more enjoyable. Plus, it’s a fun, social way to meet people, share laughs, and leave with a delicious sense of accomplishment (and maybe even some leftovers). In short, a cooking class feeds both your stomach and your soul.

August 13 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm

The Limitless World of Flatbread

Dorothy Lane Market Culinary Center

August 16 or September 14 @ 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm

Traditional Pierogi Making Adventure

Cheese Studio
3401 Southdale Drive #4,Kettering

Create your own Pierogi’s with custom cheese, potatoes and onions under the guidance of guest Chef Dominika. $35

August 17 & Sept 7 @ 4:00 pm

Fresh Mozzarella Class

Grist 46 W. 5th St, Dayton

$128

August 21 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm

Buttermaking Food Adventure

Rosebuds Real Food 473 E. Troy Pike C., Covington

August 22 @ 6:30 pm – 9:00 pm

Hands-On: Steakhouse/Cooking with a Partner

Cooking School at Jungle Jim’s 5440 Dixie Highway, Fairfield

August 24 @ 11:00 am

Grist Class: MEATBALLS & POMODORO!

46 W 5th St, Dayton

You’ve asked for the secret to our meatballs—good news, we don’t keep secrets! In this hands-on class, you’ll learn how to make tender, flavorful meatballs from scratch, just like we do.

Working in teams of four, you’ll prepare a fresh seasonal salad and meatballs simmered in pomodoro sauce. While you cook, the chef will handle the pasta and serve it alongside your meatballs for a complete, comforting meal. To finish, enjoy a classic cannoli for dessert—our treat.

This is a fun, approachable class that’ll leave you with a go-to recipe perfect for any night of the week $128

August 31 @ 11:00 am – 5:00 pm

Filled Pasta Class

Grist 46 W. 5th St, Dayton

Dōzo is Back with a New Format & New Menu

August 11, 2025 By Lisa Grigsby

New Chef. New Menu. New Format. New Hours.

Dayton’s most unique sushi experience returns to Downtown, ready for more and ready to shine.
Chef Jake Montayne relocated from Minnesota this Summer and has been hard at work ith GM Kay Salyers and team putting together a menu that maintains the creativity, the commitment to premium ingredients with our global vendors, and the refinement that Dōzo is known for. What started as a small menu expanded to the rest of the bar guests has grown into something we feel really good about for nightly service. If you just want to nibble on a few things while enjoying drinks, or are looking for a full meal, we’ll have plenty to satisfy your personal preferences for an unforgettable night out.”

The new menu incorporates an array of creative twists on classic sushi rolls, with sections featuring Dōzo’s signature nigiri compositions, small plates to share, and a seasonal dessert. A Sake program curated by Wine Director Lauren Gay is designed to be explored, featuring bottle selections rarely found throughout the state of Ohio. Beverage Director Tyler Hampton also makes his mark, launching a new Japanese Whiskey list and a few new Dōzo-specific cocktails.

Dōzo relaunches with preview nights Tuesday – Saturday from 5pm -9pm. Dimmick is hopeful the new approach encourages a broader group of diners to enjoy the selections and the space, at a price point that makes a night out a lot more approachable than the original iteration.

“We’re just having a ton of fun with this thing, and taking the pretense out everywhere we can. The space remains impeccable, the service and hospitality we’re known for is palpable, of course… But times are tough and as operators, we have to adapt to what works for best the community and this refresh represents our commitment to growth and to Dayton. We want to share our talent, our passion and our service with as many friends as possible, as often as possible, and this new approach allows us to do just that.”

Reservations will fill up fast for the coming weeks as the team starts with limited seatings and works to expand them to full capacity throughout August. Make your reservations here.

Dayton Brewer Elected President of Ohio Craft Brewers Association

August 8, 2025 By Dayton937

Screenshot

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!

August 8, 2025 By Dayton937

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!

McCoy on Movies: Weapons

August 8, 2025 By Tabari McCoy

Weapons delivers imaginative, twisty suspense in market lacking such

“Hello, I’m a creepy child with a smile to match … What could go wrong?!” Alex Lilly (Cary Christopher) in a scene from writer/director Zach Creeger’s WEAPONS. © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment. All Rights Reserved.

WATCH THE TRAILER HERE:

CAST:

Julia Garner (Justine Gandy)

Josh Brolin (Archer)

Alden Ehrenreich (Paul)

Benedict Wong (Andrew)

Amy Madigan (Gladys)

Austin Abrams (James)

Cary Christopher (Alex Lilly)

Toby Huss (The Captain)

WRITER /DIRECTOR: Zach Cregger

THE PLOT: WEAPONS introduces us to Justine Gandy (Julia Garner), a third grade teacher in the suburbs of Pennsylvania (or at least, one can assume that based on the colors on the license plate on her Toyota RAV4). Justine is not having a good day … And neither are the parents of the 17 children in her classroom that all have suddenly gone missing after running out of the front doors of their homes at exactly 2:17 a.m. Alex Lilly (Cary Christopher), however, seems to be just fine since he was the only one that showed up to her room the next day.

While parents such as Archer (Josh Brolin) are calling for Justine’s head as he is convinced she knows more than what she’s telling, her principal Andrew (Benedict Wong) and her police officer ex-flame Paul (Alden Enrenreich) believe she’s telling the truth. But given the fact that Justine (A) has what could be perceived as a problem with alcohol and (B) was let go from her previous school, you can (C) see why more people in town are not convinced she’s as innocent as she says.

But as all their stories begin to intersect, it becomes clear something evil is afoot … And this small town may never be the same ever again.

THE REVIEW: “Well … that was … different.”

If you’ve seen one and/or both of the trailers for WEAPONS, you already know that seeing scores of people running in a trance-like state at full speed would be cause for concern in the real world … So it might come as a bit of a surprise that the film is a MUCH slower burn than you might originally believe. Likewise, whereas there is some definite gore and violence, WEAPONS is much more story driven than it is by the former, so those coming a typical hack-and-slash might need to pump the brakes on that expectation.

There are some issues with WEAPONS that keep it from being as great as it could be. There’s some foreshadowing that can be hard to ignore, the characters – Garner’s in particular – utilize logic that at times seems to show the absence of any and the ending may leave some desiring a bit more answers since some open-ended questions definitely remain. What the film has going for it, however, is a bit of unexpectedness to it that makes up for it that, for the average person, is enough to keep them intrigued until the film’s final act pieces everything together as to why what is happening is happening (for the most part).

In an era where most horror movies are really just psychological thrillers with a lot of cursing and jump scare scenes, WEAPONS manages to come armed with enough tension and surprise to make most moviegoers not wanting to draw one demanding a refund. Just know that whatever you think you’re getting, you likely are not … Even if you jump ahead and start to figure things out before Justine and Archer do.

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

DCDC Launches 57th Season with Free Community Celebration

August 7, 2025 By Dayton937

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

August 7, 2025 By Dayton937

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'”
- Note: get the full detailed schedule of performers here: https://www.daytonporchfest.org/lineup
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.

10? with Meadlowark Owner & Chef Dave Rawson

August 7, 2025 By Lisa Grigsby

Chef Dave Rawson

Chef Dave Rawson started his career at Meijer, where he was a backer. He attended Sinclair’s culinary program and then started working at The Winds in Yellow Springs, where he met his wife Robin, who also worked in the kitchen. It was also there he met Elizabeth Wiley, who eventually left to open The Meadowark in 2004. In 2006 Rawson was hired on as her kitchen manager and he’s been there since then. Wiley describes Dave as, “solid, feet-on-the-ground, creative and hard-working, a good communicator and fantastic cook. To watch him make risotto, or ratatouille is poetic.” Wiley sold Wheat Penny and Meadowlark in 2022 to her long time business partners and friends, Chefs Dave Rawson and Liz Valenti

What is your favorite ingredient to cook with?

Peppers! I love them. Sweet, hot, fresh, dried, smoked, grilled on a bratwurst, ground into romesco, simmered in ratatouille. I feel they don’t get enough credit.

What ingredient do you dread?

This is a hard one. Ingredients or methods that take extra care or are difficult or monotonous to prepare are more of a challenge than a dislike for me. I’ll go with an ingredient that I don’t like to eat, which there are few, liver.

What’s your favorite dish to make?

Ratatouille. My Chef at the Winds, Kim Korkan, showed me how to make it years ago. It’s such a beautiful combination of summer vegetables, all of which can grow in Ohio. (and in talking with him this will probably appear on the menu next week).

What’s your favorite pig out food?

Chef Dave cooking down tart cherries

There are too many! I would have to say ice cream if made to choose.

What restaurant, other than your own, do you like to dine at in the Miami Valley?

Another tricky one. Chefs tend to keep similar hours, so most are closed at the same time as Meadowlark. The list is long though. Dayton has quite a few stellar restaurants.

What’s your best advice for home chefs?

Just like anything else, practice. Take advantage of today’s technology and watch cooking shows, get some cookbooks, take some cooking classes, become familiar with your tools. Keep at it and continue to build off what you know. Call the Meadowlark and ask me questions!

If you could invite any 4 guests to a dinner party, who would they be and why?

I’m taking the liberty of adding “living or dead” to this question.

My grandmother. She was a good cook, and she taught my mother to cook. She never got to see me do this, and I think she would be “tickled pink” as she would say.
My mother. She was a good cook and taught me the excitement of trying new things.
My wife. What point would there be of having a dinner party without Robin there? Besides, she’s a better cook than me.
My mother in-law. She and my mother didn’t get to spend enough time together and she’s an awesome lady!

Wiley & Dave

Who do you look up to in the industry and why?

I’ll go with people I know as opposed to famous (or not so famous) chefs. Elizabeth Wiley, Kim Korkan and Mary Kay Smith. They helped form my approach to cooking and the business side of cooking. The main lesson is you must really care about your ingredients, your customers and your staff.

What do you do in the Miami Valley on a day off?

As little as possible! But in all seriousness, hanging out with my wife, our dogs, and our friends, which doesn’t happen enough!

Share a kitchen disaster, lucky break or other interesting story:

As you know, the restaurant business can be very volatile. Although I had been a baker for many years, I was relatively new to professional cooking when I found myself, only nine months into my first restaurant job, being promoted to kitchen manager. I think my bosses at the time thought that since I seemed to be fairly responsible and eager to learn, that they would teach me as we went along. I think it turned out all right.

Meadowlark

Where comfort food meets creativity and local charm.

5531 Far Hills Avenue
Dayton Ohio 45429

937-434-4750

Tues – Thurs: 11:30am – 8:30pm

Fri & Sat: 11:30am– 9:30pm

online reservations

Lucho All-Day Taqueria & Espresso Bar Now Open

August 6, 2025 By Lisa Grigsby

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)

‘Wednesday’-themed Meal of Misfortune available at Wendy’s

August 5, 2025 By Dayton937

What happens when two iconic pig-tailed provocateurs join forces in the kitchen? They create a meal that is pure punishment in a bag: introducing the Wendy’s^®x Wednesday™ Meal of Misfortune.

Designed by Wednesday Addams, the other pig-tailed outcast herself, the limited-time Meal of Misfortune is centered around the “Dips of Dread,” four inferno-inspired mystery sauces, along with “Rest in 10-Piece” Nuggets, small “Cursed & Crispy” Fries and a small “Raven’s Blood” Frosty^®, all served in custom packaging only Wednesday could have devised.

Fans can grab their very own Meal of Misfortune just in time for the Wednesday Season 2 Part 1 premiere on Netflix on Wednesday, Aug. 6.

Speaking of misfortune… no one will escape the Dips of Dread unscathed. With two mystery dipping sauces in each meal, only fate will decide which of the four dips accompany each order. Don’t bother asking which sauce you’ll get – you must surrender to your destiny. Those brave enough to try them all must endure multiple visits.

This meal features four mystery dipping sauces, dubbed the “Dips of Dread” are:

You Can’t Hyde: Believed to be a spicy ketchup.
This Will Sting: Thought to be a hot honey garlic sauce.
Grave Mistake: Likely a scorpion pepper sauce.
Nowhere to Woe: Described as a spicy signature sauce.

Wayward souls can dip into the Raven’s Blood Frosty, complete with a “Spoon of Gloom”** and Wednesday-themed Frosty cups, perfect for seeing that delicious dark cherry swirl.

“Wendy’s and Wednesday are both cultural icons famous for challenging convention with wit and a bit of sass,” said Lindsay Radkoski, U.S. Chief Marketing Officer, The Wendy’s Company. “This isn’t a typical collaboration, because not just any brand could scheme up a Meal of Misfortune with Wednesday Addams. But for a brand that’s proudly customer-obsessed and unapologetically bold, it was a match made in dark, dry-witted heaven.”

In addition to the Meal of Misfortune, U.S. fans have a chance to win $10,000 by helping Wendy dodge the perils of normalcy with an interactive game experience, “Escape from Wednesday’s Woe.” This gravity-defying adventure features treacherous traps, delicious Wendy’s x Wednesday treats and exclusive rewards and is available only in the U.S. Wendy’s app.***

“Normally I’d be against this kind of capitalistic corporate synergy,” said Wednesday Addams, Nevermore Academy student. “But when the fast-food-slinging pigtailed provocateur said I could do whatever I wanted to her customers, I couldn’t resist.”

9 Places to Enjoy Oysters in the Miami Valley

August 5, 2025 By Lisa Grigsby

Oysters are highly nutritious shellfish that offer a wide array of health benefits. They’re packed with high quality protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants — all of which benefit health.

East Coast oysters are known for their briny, salty, and complex flavor, with hints of seaweed, minerals, and sometimes butter. West Coast oysters are known for their sweet and fruity flavor, with notes of melon, cucumber, and citrus.

East Coast oysters are long and smooth, with a narrow base and tear drop shape. West Coast oysters are round with rough, fluted edges.

The size of the oyster doesn’t much matter, it’s a personal preference whether you look them big or small, but it should look full within the shell. A quality oyster won’t be too thin or too salty.

While some people believe you should let it slide down your throat without biting it, chewing it one or two times will allow you to get all the flavor.

While it’s not necessary to use condiments, and some people actually prefer their fish plain, there are a variety of garnishes that can add an extra pop of flavor! Lemon, cocktail sauce, or a shallot mignonette are all common choices. These all add a little zing, without completely overpowering the taste of the oyster.

Where to order oysters in the Miami Valley:

Club Oceano Seafood & Bar
4429 Cedar Park Dr, Beavercreek
(937) 988-0909

Oysters Rockefeller  - Baked Oysters Topped with Cheese, Chopped Spinach, Green Herbs, and Citrus Bearnaise.

Fresh Oysters – by the dozed or half dozen
Monday Special- $1 oysters all day when ordered 6 at a time.

Flemings Steak House
4432 Walnut Street at The Greene
937-320-9548

harvested by hand, flown in daily, freshly shucked and served with house-made mignonette |

Papi Grande

Foremost Seafood

1912 Woodman Center Dr, Kettering

937-298-1986

Initially just a wholesale provider, we have expanded to provide fresh seafood to local customers as well.
Here’s what’s in stock this week: In-shell chesapeake bay oysters
West Coast papi grande

Shucked
12 in-shell frozen dozen

Jay’s Seafood

Oysters on the half shell

225 E. 6th Street in the Oregon District
(937) 222-2892

Oysters on the Half Shell -Blue Point from Long Island Sound, juicy and mild in taste

Oysters Rockefeller – (6) Freshly opened oysters with fresh spinach and spices topped with mozzarella cheese

Sea Jax Tavern

5900 Bigger Road, Kettering
937.439.1664

OYSTERS RAW OR FRIED*
each extra select oyster served with Jax House made cocktail sauce, lemon wedge and saltine crackers. Delivered fresh daily- subject to sell out

The Paragon Super Club
797 Miamisburg Centerville Rd. Washington Twsp
(937) 433-1234

Oysters Rockefeller- A classic beginning to any meal

Fried Oysters

The Silver Slipper
1105 Wayne Ave, Dayton
(937) 344-8531

Oysters are delivered each Wednesday essentially direct from the farms. Our weekly oyster selections aim to highlight regional differences (west coast puget sound, west coast british columbia, canadian maritime and new england) as well as geographical differences (oceanic vs river influenced, beach grown vs tidal raised, etc.). Range from $3-$4.50. Served w/ mignonette & lemon, tabasco on request, cocktail or horseradish .50¢

Sonora Grill
5438 Burkhardt Rd. Dayton

(937) 963-2205

Ostoines Zarandeados- 12 pieces marinated in garlic butter and a touch of chipotle perfectly grilled on the grill.

Ostoiones Permidaos – 12 fresh pieces, accompanied with shrimp and octupus ceviche.

The Pine Club
1926 Brown St, Dayton

937-228-5371

Blue Point Oysters on Half Shell* 20.95

Got a favorite place we missed, leave us a comment below.

Remembering the Victims of the Oregon District Mass Shooting

August 4, 2025 By Dayton937

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.

The Featured Articles

New Chef. New Menu. New Format. New Hours.

Weapons delivers imaginative, twisty suspense in market lacking such

Mon 11

Tue 12

Wed 13

Thu 14

Fri 15

Sat 16

Sun 17

$1 Oysters

$3 Burger Night

Trivia Shark

Trivia at The Greene

Trivia Night