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Things to do in Dayton | Restaurants, Theatre, Music and More

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Learn To Make Biscuits With Master Baker Bill Evans

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Master Baker Bill Evans

In a unique fundraiser, join Miami Valley Meals founding board member Bill Evans, a retired certified master baker (CMB) and former owner of Evans Bakery, for a fast-paced, hands-on lesson in Biscuit making.

In a one-hour class on Sunday, July 27th at 10am  Evans will  introduce you to a technique called lamination that will enable you to produce not only flaky biscuits, but also other laminated products-Danish, croissants, puff pastry, even pie crust.

If you are among the 25 amateur bakers to sign up for this $25 event, Bill will guarantee you a fun-filled hour and enough knowledge to have bragging rights the next time you have friends over for biscuits and gravy, strawberry shortcake, scones, or a combination of the two.

Looking forward to a sell-out crowd. The proceeds will be split between Miami Valley Meals and  Bill’s charity, Luke meets Nehemiah (LMN), a door-to-door emergency meal delivery ministry that always includes Miami Valley Meals.

As a bonus, if you prove to be an energetic crowd, pay attention, and don’t make a mess, Evans will have time to squeeze in a bonus biscuit recipe, “Hootie’s mystery biscuits.”

Reserve your spot online here. The class will be held at Miami Valley Meals, located at 428 S Edwin C Moses Blvd in Dayton.

Step Right Up! Plan A Visit Your County Fair This July

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There’s something timeless and magical about a county fair. It’s where sizzling funnel cakes, giant stuffed animals, and the hum of carnival rides come together to create an experience that’s pure Americana. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a foodie, a music lover, or just looking for a fun day out with the family, the county fair offers a little something for everyone.

Taste the Tradition
From deep-fried delights to local barbecue, fair food is a world of its own. You’ll find lemonade shaken fresh, award-winning pies, and plenty of vendors serving up mouthwatering treats you won’t get anywhere else. It’s a perfect opportunity to indulge in your favorites—or discover something new.

Feel the Fun
Midway rides, games of chance, and the nostalgic call of the carousel bring out the kid in all of us. Test your aim at the ring toss, race down a giant slide, or take a spin on the Ferris wheel for unbeatable views of the fairgrounds. There’s no better place to laugh, cheer, and make memories with friends and family.

Celebrate Community
The heart of any county fair lies in its local flair. You’ll find livestock competitions, craft exhibits, baking contests, and homegrown talent on display. It’s a chance to cheer on your neighbors, see youth 4-H projects up close, and appreciate the agricultural roots of the region.

Entertainment for All
From live music and tractor pulls to talent shows and fireworks, the fair’s entertainment schedule is packed with high-energy events day and night. Whether you’re grooving to a local band or catching a daredevil stunt show, there’s always something exciting around the corner.

Support Local & Have a Blast
Your visit to the county fair supports small businesses, local farmers, artisans, and performers. It’s a way to give back to the community while having a whole lot of fun.

So grab your sunscreen, bring your appetite, and get ready to enjoy a summer tradition that never goes out of style. Each  county fair only comes once a year—get all the details here.

Get Toasted this Summer with BJ’s S’mores Pizookie®

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BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse is serving up summer in the boldest, most indulgent way possible—with the return of its beloved Graham Cracker S’mores Pizookie®, a fresh lineup of seasonal brews, including BJ’s Sweet Sin Chocolate Porter™, BJ’s Hard Root Beer and BJ’s Co-Hoperate Hazy Pils™, and the new All-American Smash Burger—perfect pairings for long summer days and starry nights.

Guests can now enjoy BJ’s signature world-famous dessert layered with graham cracker crumbles, toasted marshmallows and Ghirardelli® chocolate—the perfect dessert this summer. For more information, visit bjsrestaurants.com.

The Graham Cracker S’mores Pizookie® is more than a dessert—it’s a full on summer vibe. Inspired by the nostalgic flavors of the classic campfire treat, this limited-time Pizookie® features a warm, gooey Ghirardelli® chocolate cookie base, topped with golden graham cracker crumbles, toasted marshmallows and two generous scoops of rich vanilla bean ice cream. Originally spun off from the cult-favorite Peanut Butter S’mores Pizookie®, this version ditches the peanut butter and adds in a twist that screams summer nights around a campfire.

Want s’more? This crave-worthy dessert returns just in time to accompany a lineup of seasonal brews and a new smash burger that are guaranteed to have you feeling the summer lovin’:

  • BJ’s Hard Root Beer: A nostalgic yet modern take on a soda shop classic with flavors of vanilla, licorice, sassafras, wintergreen and molasses. Make it extra special by adding 2 scoops of our vanilla bean ice cream for a delicious adult root beer float!
  • BJ’s Sweet Sin Chocolate Porter™: Crafted with real Ghirardelli® chocolate, just like the Graham Cracker S’mores Pizookie®, this silky, full-bodied porter is a dessert lover’s dream. With notes of both dark chocolate and roasted coffee, BJ’s new chocolate porter will have you wishing it was five o’clock already.
  • BJ’s Co-Hoperate Hazy Pils™: A hybrid brew that blends the crisp refreshment of a pilsner with the soft, juicy hops of a hazy. This global collaboration with Germany’s König Brewery lets you take a transatlantic trip without the jet lag.
  • All-American Smash Burger: Nothing says summer quite like BJ’s new All-American Smash Burger, a backyard cookout classic elevated to perfection. Featuring two perfectly smashed and seared beef patties topped with melty American cheese and BJ’s signature sauce, all nestled in a premium parker house bun, this mouthwatering creation delivers the perfect blend of crispy edges and juicy center that’ll transport you to a summertime BBQ. Available Monday through Friday as part of BJ’s $13 Pizookie® Meal Deal, complete with crispy fries and a personal Pizookie® for the ultimate indulgence.

“Summer is the time for making unforgettable memories with friends and loved ones—whether you’re clinking glasses over a refreshing, ice-cold brew or sharing stories around a campfire with an iconic s’more. So, we’re making it easy to savor the summer vibes with an all-new Pizookie® and an assortment of craft beers and hard root beer,” said Heidi Rogers, Senior Vice President of Marketing at BJ’s Restaurants, Inc. “Unlike other chains that outsource their beer production, BJ’s owns every step of the process, brewing in-house from grain to glass. This approach is central to our brewing philosophy and allows us to keep pushing the boundaries with artisanal offerings like the BJ’s Sweet Sin Chocolate Porter™, unique collaborations like our new Co-Hoperate Hazy Pils™ and a refreshing Hard Root Beer—perfect for an adult take on the classic soda. Plus, with the Graham Cracker S’more Pizookie®, you can indulge in the summer’s most iconic treat without striking a match.”

For more information on the Graham Cracker S’mores Pizookie®, Sweet Sin Chocolate Porter, Hard Root Beer, Co-Hoperate Hazy Pils, or All-American Smash Burger, visit www.bjsrestaurants.com.

Bottomless Appetizers At Buffalo Wild Wings

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Buffalo Wild Wings has just launched a new Bottomless Apps deal, available for dine-in only. Starting today, you can dig into endless rounds of two apps at a time, which starts at $9.99 for the table. That’s right, you’ll be getting their fan-favorite appetizers such as Fried Pickles, Mozzarella Sticks, Onion Rings, Chips & Salsa, and Hatch Queso.

When you order “Bottomless Apps,” you’ll receive unlimited rounds of appetizers. The only catch is that you can only order two appetizers at time. It’s important to note that price points may change based on how many are in your party and which state you live in (for example, California, Hawaii, or New York could implement slight price increases). This deal only applies to parties of four, with additional costs for more than four guests. There’s currently no end date for this initiative and it’s only available in participating locations within the franchise. 

Gather to Transform into Lucho, a Mezcal-Fueled Taco Bar

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After two remarkable years as the first food and beverage company to open inside the recently revitalized Dayton Arcade, Gather—owned by Shane Anderson—is ready for its next evolution. Anderson is joining forces with Charlie Carroll and Hospitalité Group to temporarily close Gather and reimagine the space as Lucho, a bold burrito, taco, mezcal, and espresso bar, set to reopen in July.

While Gather will soon undergo a full transformation, the spirit of what made it special remains. From its earliest days, Gather became more than just a café—it was the heartbeat of the Arcade’s mornings. Known for its thoughtful espresso program, signature seasonal drinks, and high-quality beans, Gather served as a daily ritual for downtown regulars and visitors alike. Whether it was a hand-poured latte before work or a spiced Café de Olla shared over conversation, the café offered a warm, grounded sense of community with every cup.

Anderson, who brings more than 15 years of hospitality experience, will now join forces with Carroll, founder of Table 33 and several other Dayton food ventures. Both see this as a chance to level up. “Shane helped breathe life into the Arcade. His ability to build meaningful spaces—through coffee, food, and connection—has been invaluable,” said Carroll. “We’re excited to keep that momentum going with something completely fresh.”

Lucho will be a vibrant all-day taqueria-meets-mezcal-bar, with tacos, burritos, bowls, and cocktails served from morning into the night. The menu is packed with bold, soulful combinations like the “El Desvelo” breakfast taco with short rib and chipotle hollandaise, or the “La Baja” with beer-battered fish, charred pineapple salsa, and cabbage slaw.

While the name and flavors may be changing, Lucho will still carry pieces of Gather’s coffee culture forward. Expect signature drinks like the Café de Olla latte, Oaxacan Mocha, and the Mezcal Affogato—espresso poured over vanilla bean ice cream and a float of joven mezcal. Coffee drinkers can rest easy: their morning ritual will still have a home.

On the cocktail side, Lucho comes ready to party. The bar will serve everything from smoky agave Old Fashioneds to hibiscus-infused tequila spritzes, watermelon mezcal sours, and a decadent Churro Martini rimmed with cookie crumble.

At the same time, Carroll’s Hospitalité Group is launching a second concept—completely distinct from Lucho—called The Dessert Room. Housed in its own dedicated space connected to Table 33, The Dessert Room is a nostalgic after-dinner destination focused solely on elevated desserts and post-meal cocktails.

This isn’t just an add-on or side room—it’s a full-fledged experience of its own. Inspired by the kind of sweets that once graced your grandparents’ table (think pies, puddings, and cakes), The Dessert Room reimagines those classics with modern technique, bold flavors, and a little grown-up mischief. Expect warm slices of pie, boozy milkshakes, and candlelit comfort in an intimate, stand-alone setting made for lingering late into the night.

Both Lucho and The Dessert Room are part of a growing investment in downtown Dayton’s culinary scene. “This is about creating layers of experience,” said Carroll. “Gather started the story. Now, we’re building two completely different destinations—one spicy, one sweet, both unforgettable.”

 

Gather Bids Adieu

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Thank you, Dayton. 

“For the past 22 months, Gather by Ghostlight has had the incredible honor of welcoming our community into the historic Dayton Arcade — a space that’s always represented the heart and hope of our city. To be even a small part of its revitalization has meant the world to us.
We want to express our deepest appreciation to the incredible team at The Arcade and Cross Street Partners, who have been far more than landlords. They’ve been champions for our city, working tirelessly with true intention to revitalize this precious gem into something lasting and meaningful for Dayton. It’s been a privilege to partner with people so invested in the soul of this place.
While we’re stepping out of this space, this is not a closing. This is a transition. Sunday, June 29th will be our last service as Gather, but a very exciting collaboration is on the horizon.
Our friends at Hospitalité Group & Table 33 have exciting plans ahead — expanding into both the gallery and café spaces at Gather with fresh concepts & continued community focus. We couldn’t be more thrilled for what’s to come.
Even better news: there will be new opportunities for our amazing Gather team to continue doing what they do best, with coffee, breakfast, lunch & cocktails still a big part of the vision for this space. 🙌 Watch this space for announcements about what’s to come!
The Dayton Arcade is more than architecture. It’s a symbol of resilience, reinvention, and hope. Thank you for allowing us to be a small part of its story.
So much appreciation for all of the staff, guests, artists & musicians who have walked through our 4th Street door. It will only be closed for a little while & then we’ll be welcoming you right back in, with a few changes.

We’ll see you soon — back at our roots on Wayne Ave.”

With love and gratitude,
The Gather by Ghostlight Team

Chili’s Debuts New Premium PATRÓN Frozen Margaritas

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Chili’s® Grill & Bar, the seller of more margaritas than any restaurant brand in the U.S. — with more than 25 million sold last year alone — is raising the bar with three new, premium frozen choices.

Chili’s® Grill & Bar, the seller of more margaritas than any restaurant brand in the U.S. — with more than 25 million sold last year alone — is raising the bar with three new, premium frozen choices made with PATRÓN Silver tequila.

Made with PATRÓN Silver tequila, the lineup features something for everyone:

  • PATRÓN Frozen Marg – Timeless and smooth, Chili’s new frozen margarita features PATRÓN Silver, triple sec, lime juice and agave and starts at just $10. Guests can choose to add strawberry, mango, watermelon, blackberry, dragonfruit or even spicy flavor for an added punch.
  • Flamingo Freeze – This vibrant, pink drink is made by shaking up Tito’s® Handmade Vodka with Owen’s Prickly Pear, then swirling with PATRÓN Frozen Marg for a sweet sip featuring a popular flavor in the southwest.
  • Arctic Drift – Featuring a refreshing blend of Malibu® Coconut Rum, pineapple juice and Blue Curaçao, shaken then swirled with PATRÓN Frozen Marg, the Arctic Drift brings in flavors of the tropics, garnished with a lime wedge and maraschino cherry.

“As a leader in the margarita space, we saw a big opportunity to elevate and expand our frozen margs to be ones that our guests deserve,” said George Felix, Chief Marketing Officer at Chili’s Grill & Bar. “At Chili’s, margaritas are a core part of who we are – and now we’re proud to serve what we believe to be the best frozen margs in the industry. I can’t think of a better combination on a hot summer day than our all-new PATRÓN Frozen Marg and a Triple Dipper.”

Join the Great American Float!

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Calling all paddlers! Join us for a fun paddle event on the Great Miami River. The GREAT Float returns on July 11 in Dayton, Ohio!

Everyone is invited to the 2025 GREAT Float, a celebration of the Great Miami River. Experience the best event of the summer -an approximately two-hour paddle with over 100 participants in canoes, kayaks, and other human-powered craft.

The GREAT Float is scheduled for Friday, July 11 with a launch time of 4:45pm and ending when you’re done having fun! We will launch at Eastwood MetroPark and float down the Mad River to the Great Miami, before arriving at Riverscape MetroPark in time to paddle through the fountains! You can then choose if you’d like to stay and enjoy a Tribute to Jimmy Buffet with Parrots of the Caribbean at the Riverscape Pavilion. We’ll provide security so you don’t have to worry about leaving your boat. Food and beverages will be available for purchase at the Riverscape Cafe.

Registration is required. Participants can rent a kayak, paddle and life jacket for $50, provided by Taiters Kayaks. Or, bring your own kayak or canoe for $15. Transportation is included. Deadline for registration is July 3.

After-Party 🎉

Parrots of the Caribbean, a Jimmy Buffett tribute band, will be performing* at the Riverscape Pavilion. We’ll provide security so you don’t have to worry about leaving your boat. Food and beverages will be available for purchase at the Riverscape Cafe.

Heinz’s First New Mustard In a Decade

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If you’ve turned on Top Hits radio lately, you’ve likely heard a beat made by Dijon McFarlane, also known as DJ Mustard. Mustard has worked with a variety of music artists and has made beats for Kendrick Lamar’s newest album, which includes the hit “TV Off.” The song features the producer’s tag, “Mustard on the beat,” before an undeniably catchy callout “Mustaaaaaard.”

Recently, the music producer added another name to his list of collaborators, but this time it’s not a music industry giant. Mustard has teamed up with Heinz for the brand’s first-ever U.S. partnership. Appropriately named, Heinz Mustaaaaaard is a sweet and smoky chipotle honey mustard that features real chipotle peppers and sweet honey flavor. The thick and creamy sauce is the perfect addition to burgers and chicken, but can also be used as a marinade or to coat beef brisket before tossing into the smoker.

A mustard enthusiast himself, DJ Mustard says that the iconic yellow condiment has always had a place at the table. “Heinz Mustard has always been my grilling secret weapon,” says Mustard. “I knew I wanted some sweetness in my sauce, because that’s what gets you that nice browning, bark formation when grilling, but from there I was open. I tested a bunch of remixes with the Heinz team, trying different ingredients like jalapeños, bacon, and chipotle peppers. In the end, it came down to three top contenders before I ultimately chose what I felt was the ‘Mustard’ of all mustards.

The mustard collab was announced earlier this year, though the details were kept under wraps. Despite limited info, it’s been a much-anticipated release for Mustard and mustard fans alike. “This is too perfect,” said one person in a Reddit thread. “Mustard on the meat,” quipped another.

Fans who want a first taste of the new Heinz creation can do so at Buffalo Wild Wings locations nationwide, where it will be exclusively available June 25 through July 14. Guests who order a beef menu item for dine-in will receive a free bottle of Heinz Mustaaaaaard, while supplies last. But don’t worry if you can’t make it during the two-week preview period. The new mustard will soon roll out to major retailers nationwide, including Walmart.com, Target, and Amazon. This is a limited edition product, and we don’t know exactly how long it will be on shelves, so be sure to stock up before it disappears.

Story by Samantha Dillard and originally appeard on Allrecipes.

 

Teardrop Steakhouse Adds Lunch Service & Specials

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Downtown has a new lunch option, as Teardrop Steakhouse , which opened earlier this month, reveals their lunch menu, which will b served Tuesdy- Sunday from 11am – 2pm at the eatery on First Street.

Teardrop has also announced their version of happy hour that will be offered from 4 – 7pm Tuesday through Friday.

Chef Jay has also posted some more budget friendly nightly meal specials.

 

Morgan’s Fine Cuisine Ribbon Cutting & Grand Opening

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Chef Morgan

A ribbon cutting for the Grand Opening of Morgan’s Fine Cuisine in Wright Dunbar will be held on Wednesday, June 25th at 11:00am with City of Dayton officials.

The new restaurant, founded by Executive Chef Phillip Morgan, features a dynamic menu that reimagines food trends and experiments with fusion cuisine. Chef Phil is the former executive chef at Mojo’s in Troy and dining supervisor at The University of Dayton. Chef Phil operated Morgan’s Catering out of The Entrepreneur’s Marketplace in Wright Dunbar and launched a food trailer in 2021. Opening his first brick-and-mortar location in Wright Dunbar, where he created his food following, was the next logical step in his business. The restaurant has been completely renovated including the dining room, kitchen & patio!  The total project cost was $225,000, partially funded by CityWide Development Corporation utilizing the City of Dayton’s First Floor Funds & private investment by Wright Dunbar Inc. Morgan’s currently has 9 employees. 

Morgan’s Fine Cuisine

1101 West Third St.
Dayton, OH 45402

 (937) 239-4343

Open Tues– Sat 12-9 p.m

 

Red Lobster Brings Seafood Boils to Crabfest

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 Red Lobster is making a splash this summer with the return of its biggest crab event of the year – Crabfest! This year’s lineup is packed with exciting new flavors, including all-new Seafood Boils designed to bring fun and flavor straight to the table.

Sailor’s BoilFor the ultimate dining experience, guests can customize their seafood boil by choosing from two delicious options, Mariner’s Boil, featuring a Maine lobster tail, a dozen shrimp, snow crab legs, corn and red potatoes, or Sailor’s Boil, featuring a mix of shrimp, smoked sausage, corn and red potatoes. Each boil can be finished with a choice of bold flavors: Roasted Garlic Butter, Cajun Butter, or OLD BAY® seasoning, ensuring a crave-worthy combination in every bite.

Mariner’s Boil“Red Lobster’s Crabfest is the ultimate summer dining experience, featuring exciting and flavorful dishes like our new Seafood Boils,” said Nichole Robillard, Chief Marketing Officer of Red Lobster. “Whether you’re a longtime Red Lobster lover or participating in Crabfest for the first time, we’ve got something to bring everyone joy.”

“Red Lobster’s Crabfest is the ultimate summer dining experience, featuring exciting and flavorful dishes like our new Seafood Boils,” said Nichole Robillard, Chief Marketing Officer of Red Lobster. “Whether you’re a longtime Red Lobster lover or participating in Crabfest for the first time, we’ve got something to bring everyone joy.”

With the fan favorite Crab Your Way offering, diners can enjoy a full pound of crab legs prepared your way over crispy potatoes. Diners can choose between Snow Crab or Bairdi Crab (+$9) and then choose their flavor between Simply Steamed, Roasted Garlic Butter, Cajun Butter or a NEW OLD BAY® & Parmesan flavoring.

New Crabfest Dishes

  • Crabby Stuffed Mushrooms – A flavorful appetizer packed with rich crab stuffing
  • Crab-Topped Asparagus – A premium side dish featuring asparagus topped with crab
  • Crab-Topped Potato – A premium side dish, elevating a classic dish with savory crab
  • Steak Oscar – Sirloin topped with lump meat in a creamy, decadent sauce
  • Salmon Oscar – Atlantic salmon topped with lump crab meat in a cream, decadent sauce

Alongside the Seafood Boils, Red Lobster is introducing the “Festival of Summer Sips,’ a lineup of three festival-themed cocktails:“Festival Summer of Sips”

  • Headliner: Purple Haze by Dre & Snoop, featuring STILL G.I.N. by Dre and Snoop, desert pear, handcrafted lemonade and sparkling gold shimmer.
  • Opening Act: Passion Star Spritz, featuring Tito’s Handmade Vodka and passionfruit, topped with Wycliff Sparkling Wine and garnished with a gold-dusted dried starfruit.
  • Encore: Starry Eyed Surprise, featuring Patron Silver Tequila, guava and blue curacao, topped with Starry® Lemon-Lime and garnished with sugar sprinkles rimmer.

Crab lovers won’t want to miss this crustacean celebration! Crabfest is available for a limited time, from June 23 – September 14, so head to Red Lobster to join in on the fun.

To view the complete menu or find a restaurant location, visit Red Lobster’s website

Destination Dayton® President & CEO Jacquelyn Powell To Retire

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After 32 years of exceptional leadership and dedicated service to her hometown, Jacquelyn “Jacquie” Powell, President & CEO of Destination Dayton®, has announced her retirement, marking the end of a remarkable era in Montgomery County’s tourism and hospitality industry.

Powell has led Montgomery County’s destination marketing organization with passion, vision, and unwavering commitment. During her tenure, she has helped to elevate Dayton and Montgomery County as a vibrant destination for leisure, business, and group travel. Under her leadership, Destination Dayton® achieved transformational milestones, forged strong community partnerships, and delivered measurable economic impact through innovative tourism and hospitality initiatives.

“It has been the honor of my life to serve the community I love,” said Powell. “When I reflect on the last 32 years, I feel immense gratitude—for the people I’ve worked alongside, the partners who believed in our vision, and the visitors who came to discover everything Dayton and Montgomery County have to offer. Together, we’ve built something truly special—a resilient, creative, and thriving destination brand that reflects the heart of our region. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished, and I’m equally excited for what lies ahead for Destination Dayton® and the community.”

Powell began her career in hotel and private club sales and marketing in Dayton and Cincinnati before taking the helm at Destination Dayton®. Over three decades, her strategic insight and industry expertise helped attract major events, boost visitor spending, and strengthen Dayton’s identity as a tourism and business destination.

In 2023 alone, tourism in Montgomery County generated $2.6 billion in total economic impact, including $1.6 billion in direct visitor spending—a 4% increase from the previous year. The sector supported more than 22,750 jobs and fueled $709 million in labor income.

“Jacquie’s leadership has had a profound and lasting impact on this region,” said Scott DeBolt, Chair of the Destination Dayton® Board of Trustees and Executive Director of the University of Dayton Arena. “She has been a tireless advocate for Dayton, building Destination Dayton® into a trusted and influential organization. Her ability to bring people together, her deep industry knowledge, and her passion for our community have elevated the entire region. We are incredibly grateful for her decades of service and leadership.”

Beyond her role at Destination Dayton®, Powell has contributed her expertise and leadership to numerous boards and initiatives, including:

  • Board of Trustees, United States Air & Trade Show, Inc. (supporting the CenterPoint Energy Dayton Air Show)
  • Montgomery County Convention Facilities Authority
  • Quality-of-Life Review Panel, Dayton Development Coalition’s Priority Development & Advocacy Council (PDAC)
  • Governor’s Task Force for the National Afro-American Museum and Cultural Center
  • Former leadership roles with the Buckeye Trails Girl Scout Council
  • Dayton Rotary Club Member and Paul Harris Fellow

Powell’s influence has also extended to statewide and national policy. She is a past President of the Ohio Association of Convention & Visitors Bureaus and served on the Ohio Division of Travel and Tourism’s Advisory Council. She is a respected member of key industry organizations including Destinations International, the U.S. Travel Association, and the American Society of Association Executives.

“At its core, destination marketing is about people and pride of place,” added Powell. “It’s about capturing the spirit of a community and inviting others to experience it. I’ve been honored to share Dayton and Montgomery County’s story with the world—to highlight what makes us special, resilient, and worth visiting. Watching this region grow and shine has been one of the greatest privileges of my career.”

Details about the transition and the search for new leadership will be announced in the coming weeks. Powell will remain in her role through December 2025 to ensure a smooth transition and support the organization during this pivotal moment of change.

As Dayton and Montgomery County’s destination marketing organization, Destination Dayton® collaboratively leads and advocates for the development of the region’s visitor economy, which contributes to a thriving community, a diverse tax base and lifestyle amenities for everyone to enjoy.

Archer’s Tavern Celebrates 15th Anniversary All Week!

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It was fifteen years ago this week that Dan Apolito, Mike Fullenkamp, and Scott Dorsten openend Archer’s Taven in Centerville.  They are going all out with a week long celebration,  bringing back classic food favorites, as well as offering discounted alcohol Monday through Friday until 9pm.  They will also be celebrating with all the same specials at the Kettering location, which is just 9 years old.

Speaking with Apolito, who’s had a long career in the hospitality business, working for Applebee’ before he opened his own place  shared who he’s “learned how important local restaurant are to the local community.  We supply jobs, provide a place for people to gather, celebrate and connect and communities are often identified by the businesses that operate within them.”   He’s proud to support the Miami Valley and many of the nonprofits with fundraiser they host at Archer’s.

Here are the special menu’s they’ll be featuring”

 

anniversary specials

They’ll end the week celebrating with their annual crawfish boil on Saturday. With crawfish flown in from Louisiana, Gumbo, and beer specials, this is an event you won’t want to miss! Starting at  2pm Saturday at Centerville only, $10/plate. If you make it to your 3rd plate that will be just $5/plate and you can fill up as many plates as you can eat,  until they sell out.

Apollito also owns the Stone House Tavern in Waynesville and he tell us Waynesville has just created a DORA there so you can sip and shop your way down Main Street.   They feature live music on the patio every Thursday.

9th Annual Story Grand Slam

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Dayton Story Slam will celebrate the close of it’s 9th season this week at the Brightside with their annual Grand Slam storytelling event. Normally Story Slam is an open mic showcase of local storytellers taking the stage for 5 minutes and sharing a personal story. Every month there the audience picks a winner. This week those monthly winners from this season take the stage once again.

Story Slams are community events where people take the mic and share a personal story. These are true stories and are told without the use of notes. Dayton Story Slam has been hosting these events for more than a decade.

New for this year’s Grand Slam is the addition of the Dayton Street Snacks food truck. Show up, grab a burger or crab cake and a cocktail from the Brightside before the show.

This Grand Slam features 8 of our winners from this season’s shows. Each one is bringing a new story and the theme is Duped. We expect 8 fantastic stories with tales of being tricked, bamboozled and hoodwinked.

GrandSlam tellers include:

Adam West
London Cole
Marci Wright
Keith Davis
Taylor Hemmerich
Paul Stelzer
Brad Lightle
Jackie Andrews

Tickets are still available at facebook.com/storyslamdayton and are only $5.00 in advance. There is a two drink minimum from the Brightside Bar. Look for Sandra Combs and Bryan Suddith to co-host this event with support from Dayton937 and The Brightside.

When: Wednesday June 25
Time: Doors open at 6:30, show starts at 7:00
Where: The Brightside, 905 East Third, Dayton, OH 45402
Tickets: $5.00 in advance, $10 at the door.

Oh Yes, Oh Yes, Oh Yes….This is the “CHICAGO” You Were Hoping For!

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S

Let’s face it, CHICAGO is a mainstay of Broadway shows… and TheatreLab Dayton is bringing you the CHICAGO you are hoping for. Punchy, funny, poignant, and true to the script….they are giving you the energy you need! Giving us a minute of their time, Mackensie King (Director) and Abby Kress (Roxie) sat down to talk about the upcoming stage staple.

937: Hi ladies, thank you for taking some time with us. I can tell you, from the outset, I love CHICAGO, but in its intended form, not the contemporary, less showy versions. I understand; you’re intentionally bringing it back to the Chicago we love. How did all of this come to pass?

MK: We really wanted to embrace the vaudeville spirit at the heart of the show. It plays with the classic ‘show within a show’ trope, and we’re intentionally breaking the fourth wall to invite the audience right into the fantasy unfolding on stage. The script itself has plenty of humor, but this cast has taken it to another level — they’re truly leaning into the comedy and delivering some big, belly laughs. And then there’s the choreography: Gage Wayne has created some absolutely stunning numbers. I think audiences will be tapping their feet and wishing they could jump up there and join in.

AK: This is a beloved musical by many so I hope audiences walk out having that classic Chicago itch scratched. I also hope they can identify the similarities this heightened, vaudevillian world has with the current political and social scenes we experience today.

937: Abby, I know Roxie is a beloved and coveted role….how are you feeling about it? And congratulations to you!

AK: Roxie is a dream role to take on, and challenging for sure. Physically of course, as the entire show is driven by song and dance numbers. Unlike other leading ladies, Roxie’s redeeming qualities are not heavily apparent in the script, that’s Chicago! As an actor, this poses another challenge to justify her choices throughout the show in order to deliver an authentic performance in the heightened world we’ve created.

937: Awesome….so ecited to see it. With that in mind, Mackensie, this season for TheatreLab has been interesting. How does CHICAGO fall into the theme?

MK: Reflecting on this season, one theme shines through: the powerful act of reclaiming one’s story. Chicago slots seamlessly into that narrative—giving center stage to women who not only find their voices but boldly rewrite the script. I’m always drawn to stories led by deeply flawed, complex characters. They invite us to see the world through their lens, challenging our assumptions and stirring empathy. Because really—who among us is perfect?

937: You have elevated those stories for sure this season. LIZZIE, FULL MONTY….people making their place in the world!! Ladies, what are you hoping people leave that theater feeling, or thinking?

AK: This show has a beautiful combination of TheatreLab veterans and fresh new faces! This cast is dynamic, talented, and so eager to entertain you. Chicago is the 2nd longest running show on Broadway, gripping audiences for over 25 years for a good reason. We are so excited to put a Dayton touch on a renowned favorite!

MK: She’s right….and beyond that, Now more than ever, we’re seeing just how much media — and our level of media literacy — shapes the way we view the world. With this piece, I really wanted to remind people that things aren’t always what they seem. Just because something is beautifully worded doesn’t mean it’s truthful. Art has always been one of the most powerful mirrors of our time, and I think it’s essential to dig deeper and find meaning, even in the material we think we already know.

937: Wow….what a great way to wrap this all together. Break many legs, and best to all of you! For more details:

https://www.simpletix.com/e/chicago-tickets-214975

The show runs

  • June 26 – 29, 2025. 
  • The Beautiful Northmont Community Auditorium, 4916 National RoadClayton, Ohio 45315