
Twin Valley Trail Challenge

By Dayton937

By Dayton937
The first pride celebration was held at Courthouse Square in 2001. The tradition continues this weekend as Pride 2023- United We Can will take place this Friday and Saturday. Greater Dayton LGBT Center Executive Director Rick Flynn shared with us that this years celebration will be one of the biggest ones ever. He’s thrilled with the number of new sponsors that have stepped up to support this year. He says he’s gotten phone calls from folks that felt the need to become involved. He shares he thinks it’s the political climate, saying “the more hate we see the more we come back with love! It just gives me hope!
Friday Night 6-10pm Affair at the Square
Friday evening’s event is the kick off to the LGBTQ+ festivities in Dayton. Affair on The Square is a casual evening of live entertainment. Food & beer trucks will be on hand and Pride merchandise will be for sale.
Entertainments begins 6:15pm
DJ Doug will be spinning tunes to kick off the evening and between acts.
6:15pm Springboro Community Spotlight Singers
7:30ish Caberret Group- some show tunes, with Rob Austin, Arian
9pm Rubi Girls
Saturday Festivities noon – 4pm
Noon- Grand Marshall John Gantt will lead off the parade from it’s stop off by the Dayton Metro Library to Courthouse Square with over 80 participants.
The Courthouse will be populated with over 115 vendor booths, and will overflow onto Third Street where the food trucks will also be lined up.

There will even be a special youth zone set up.

With some new expanded options this year, Flynn shares, ” you can never have too much pride. There’s something for everyone.”
We are very excited to be hosting a full weekend of queer artists over Dayton Pride including live musicians, handmade vendors, Dayton’s Silent Disco, drag queens, burlesque performers, film makers, spoken word, food offerings
Come support the Queer Agenda this Saturday at The Barrell House, which will be donating $1 from every full pour…
Abigail Moone album release with A Shade of Red and Jenna Gomes!! NOON

8th Annual Running with Pride 5K Run/Walk Registration – 7:30am Race Start – 9:00am Eastwood MetroPark, $25
*PRE SALE TICKETS ONLY!! Two shows 10am or 1pm Executive Chef, Liz Valenti invites you to Dayton’s renowned Wheat Penny…
Brunch, Glitter and Fabulous Drinks! Count us in. Grab your friends for Yellow Cab’s PRIDE Drag Brunch!!!! $15

June 23rd, 7pm at Governor’s Square park in Downtown Middletown! Hosted by Roxie D. Mocracy and The Lady Phaedra! Featuring…
The AnnualYS PRIDE Festival + Saturday, June 24, 2023Festival: 11am – 7pmParade: 12pm – 1pmAfter Party: 10pm – 2am The…
Dayton Black Pride is an opportunity to embrace and support LGBTQ+ Black and Brown communities and promote racial equity. Free
By Dayton937
The University of Dayton (UD), supported by The Contemporary Dayton (The Co), is seeking submissions for qualifications from artists to create new large-scale 2D or 3D wall work OR submit existing work for UD’s new performing and visual arts center, The Roger Glass Center for the Arts. There are 4 locations identified for commissioned workArtists interested in contributing to the new performing and visual arts center now have until July 1, 2023, to submit their application, available at codayton.org/events/calls-for-entry.

The Co is administering the RFQ through their ArtSource program, providing consultation, commissions, and installation of artist’s work for local business and non-profit organizations. The University of Dayton Roger Glass Center for the Arts seeks to bring together the vibrant artistic community and provide a space that nurtures creativity and innovation. The Center is seeking both large-scale 2D and 3D artwork, showcasing the talents of local and national artists.
Interested artists can choose to create new large-scale 2D or 3D wall works specifically for the Roger Glass Center for the Arts or submit existing works that align with the center’s vision. The center offers four locations for commissioned works, providing artists with a range of possibilities to make their artistic mark.
Eligibility
• Artists must be at least 18 years old.
• Must live (or have lived) in the Dayton Area
• UD Faculty and Alumni are encouraged to apply.
• Artists must have documented experience
completing comparable projects on time and on budget.
• Artists must have 3 references (names and contact information required)
• Members of The Committee are ineligible to apply.
RFQ Selection Criteria
• RFQs will be blind-juried (artist’s names will be hidden).
• Quality and scale of past work.
• Thoughtful, understandable, and creative vision of Concept Document.
Phase II: Final Designs
Semi-finalist Artists will be selected to submit a final design. Semi-finalists will also be invited to a site visit and tour to ask questions to inform the artwork proposal.
TIMELINE:
RFQ SUBMISSION DEADLINE July 1, 2023
SEMI-FINALIST NOTIFICATION July 2023
SEMI-FINALIST SUBMISSION DEADLINE August 2023
WINNING DESIGN AWARDS: $2,500-$7,500 per location including all materials
PRODUCTION September-October, 2023
INSTALLATION & EVENT October 2023
For more information about the Roger Glass Center for the Arts and to access the RFQ guidelines, please visit codayton.org/events/calls-for-entry.
By Dayton937
SWERK (Sweat, Work, Twerk) combines current HipHop style dance moves with lower body toning exercises to bring you one Booty-licious bod. A true “lift your booty, love your body” experience. Beyonces welcome. No previous dance experience necessary, just come MOVE and have FUN. We can’t wait to SWERK with you!
Berries Rock! The Troy Strawberry Festival is back and better than ever for its first festival since 2019. Located along the banks of the Great Miami River and through downtown Troy, this weekend-long festival will take place Saturday, June 3rd, 10:00am-9:00pm, and Sunday, June 4th, 10:00am-6:00pm. The festival includes over 100 arts and crafts vendors, great food, entertainment, and of course lots of strawberries. There is something for everyone to enjoy!

Savor over 50 food and beverage vendors spread throughout downtown Troy. Try a variety of strawberry-based dishes from the classic strawberry donut or shortcake to the more unique strawberry options such as the strawberry cheese steak. All food vendors participating in the festival are partnered with a Miami County non-profit organization to help raise funds for their mission. Along with all food and beverage vendors, Troy’s Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) will be in effect for those 21+ to enjoy.

Throughout the weekend, participate in or spectate a variety of Strawberry Festival events and activities. These events include the Strawberry Pie eating contest, Strawberry Classic Run 5k & 10K, Little Miss & Mr. Strawberry Pageant, tennis shootout, live music, and many more family activities. Come to Troy Community Park the morning of Sunday, June 4th for the Troy Strawberry Festival Cruise-In. See a variety of classic cars on display. Dash plaques will be given for the first 100 cars and a variety of trophies will be awarded. A $5 cash-only entry fee is charged, and the award ceremony will be held at 1:30pm.

Be entertained by the variety of live music and performances on the festival’s two stages. Performances include Kid Politics, Brother Believe Me, The Avalons, Fleetwood Gold, and many more! Check out the full schedule here: TSF Entertainment Schedule
This post created by the Miami County Visitors & Convention Bureau.
By Dayton937
Written by Jean and Bob Bobrick and directed by Don Campbell, “Weekend Comedy” follows an older couple and a younger couple who find that they have accidentally booked the same cottage for the same three day weekend. They decide to try to make the best of it and share the rental. We see the couples deal with the comedic conflicts of a generational divide.
By Dayton937
A visit to Sidney offers an incredible number of experiences unique to the area. After a good night’s sleep in one of Sidney’s comfy hotels and a hearty breakfast to fuel your energy level, your excursion begins by “getting riveted” on the Airstream Travel Trailer Factory Tour. Rated as one of the top factory tours in the United States, this experience gets you up close and personal on the plant floor as skilled operators assemble these world-class travel trailers one step at a time. Also offered is the Airstream Touring Coach Factory Tour. These beauties are customized Mercedes Benz Interstate 24GL Touring Coaches, and they are incredible. You won’t believe your eyes as you witness these luxury travel trailers and touring coaches come to life right before your very eyes.

Oh yea, there’s also the Airstream Heritage Center. Also located on the Airstream campus is the recently opened Airstream Heritage Center. This interpretive center is essentially an Airstream Museum that traces the history of this iconic brand with vintage units on display, memorabilia, and collectibles you won’t find anywhere else.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Sidney’s Tawawa Park and Canal Feeder Trail are perfect for hiking and pedaling. Tawawa Park features 220 acres of old-growth trees, paved and natural surface trails, two lakes for fishing, a wandering creek for wading, an inclusive playground, picnic shelters galore, the Ross Covered Bridge, and the not to be missed trailside attraction – Big Rock. Standing twelve feet high at its tallest point and weighing an estimated 103 tons, Big Rock is a popular must-see for those visiting the park. According to geologists, the granite boulder came to what would become Sidney about 15,000 years ago. It was carried by glacial ice from its native land, estimated to be 700 miles to the northeast.

Bicyclists and walkers too will enjoy the proximity of Tawawa Park to Downtown Sidney where guests can enjoy a variety of restaurants, many of which offer outdoor dining. Numerous bistros and bars await thirsty adventurers seeking a cold beer or soft drink. Some local favorites include Murphy’s Craftbar & Kitchen, The Bridge Restaurant, Amelio’s Pizzeria, Tavolo Modern Italian, and the world-famous Spot restaurant.
Quaint gift shops and boutiques dot the landscape of downtown Sidney where one can find a unique gift, the relaxation of a soothing massage, or some much-needed tranquil time in a dry salt therapy room. Great places to browse include Moonflower Effect, the Ivy Garland, and the newly opened Austeria Wine Boutique.
Coffee enthusiasts will love downtown Sidney where they can enjoy their favorite cup of hot or cold brew, tea, and other delicious options. A stop at Greenhaus Coffee and Waiting Room Coffee House is highly recommended for a mid-morning or midafternoon pick-me-up.
Visit Sidney during the May through October time frame, and you’re sure to enjoy a morning stroll through the Great Sidney Farmers Market held each Saturday from 8 am until Noon. At the market, crafters offer a large variety of handmade items, and farmers bring their freshest produce to tantalize your taste buds. Fresh baked goods, along with homemade jams and jellies, are always crowd-pleasers. Seasonal plants and flowers are also abundant for those who shop early for the best selection.

And while you’re in the shopping mood, you must make time to visit Crossway Farms Farm Market. Jams, jellies, apple butter, pastries, fruits, veggies, cheese, maple syrup, snacks, live plants, gift baskets, and so much more are offered at this unique farm store. Their fresh homemade donuts are incredible, as are their apple cider explosion and strawberry explosion soft drinks.
Lovers of historic architecture will enjoy visits to the Farmers and Merchants State Bank, built in 1917 by famed architect Louis Sullivan, mentor to Frank Lloyd Wright. This exquisite architectural masterpiece, best known for its “jewel box” design, is not to be missed. From there, you can walk across the street for a peek into the Monumental Building, originally constructed in 1877 to honor Shelby County’s fallen Civil War soldiers. Where once Buffalo Bill Cody and Annie Oakley performed, the beautifully renovated Opera House on the upper level is now home to Sidney’s Municipal Court. Positioned in the center of downtown Sidney is the beautiful and historic Shelby County Courthouse, built in 1883, which too is an impressive structure.
Fifteen miles or so from Sidney is Lake Loramie State Park, a 1,600-acre lake with 30 miles of shoreline. Lake Loramie offers unsurpassed convenience for those seeking a combined boating and camping adventure. The lake has a designated swimming area for a chance to enjoy the water or simply relax in the sun. Bicycles, canoes, and kayaks can be rented at the park’s camp office giving visitors the opportunity to explore the far reaches of the park by land or water.
If you’re traveling with the kids or grandkids, be sure to visit Vandemark Farm for ziplining, their giant swing, oversized play area, mini golf, and driving range. Sidney’s waterpark is also a lot of fun as is Bel-Mar Bowling Lanes and the Auto-Vue Drive-In Theatre. Hammer & Stain is a great stop for those looking to craft their own Sidney souvenir. This Do-It-Yourself studio allows guests to transform unfinished wood into beautiful and personalized home décor and gift items.
Come see why Sidney is a spirit you won’t find anywhere else. For your next weekend away, rejuvenate your spirit in Sidney.
By Dayton937
The 2023 Eichelberger Concert Season of free concerts at the Levitt Pavilion Dayton kicks off Thursday, June 1st with audience favorite, The Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band at 7PM. All concerts in the Eichelberger Concert Season begin at 7PM* and are free and open to the public.

The Levitt Pavilion is in the heart of downtown Dayton at the corner of 5th and Main Street and boasts the gorgeous CareSource lawn providing a green space amid Dayton’s urban core. Levitt Dayton’s free concerts have become a beloved tradition within the community, drawing music enthusiasts of all ages and backgrounds to experience the joy of live music.
“Music has the power to bring people together and uplift our spirits,” said Lisa Wagner, Executive Director of Levitt Dayton. “We are excited to kick off our sixth season and we invite everyone to join us for an unforgettable evening of music and celebration.”

Concerts at the Levitt Pavilion are held every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday through September 16 – apart from July 27-29. Audiences are welcome to bring their own lawn chairs, blankets and coolers with outside food and drink – including alcohol, although glass is prohibited. Food trucks will be present at each concert and beverages are available for purchase as well. Lawn chairs can be rented for a $5 donation.
For more information about Levitt Dayton and the full lineup of concerts, please visitwww.levittdayton.org.
By Dayton937
Celebrating the longest day of the year, Midsummer is a cherished Swedish tradition that brings everyone together to relax and have fun over a feast. For the IKEA Midsummer Buffet, locations across America will offer a family-friendly feast that includes Swedish meatballs, salmon, and seasonal summer drinks on Friday, June 23, at each store’s restaurant. You’re also likely to find pickled herring, which sees the fish cured in salt, then brined with vinegar, and aromatics like carrot, bay leaves, and onions. Pressgurka or Swedish pickled cucumbers sliced paper-thin and infused with briny caraway seeds could also be on the menu.

To accommodate as many guests as possible, IKEA is holding two separate seating times for the Midsummer buffet — 6 p.m. and 7:30 p.m — with each dinner being open to 300 guests. Due to limited seating, guests are encouraged to purchase their tickets in advance at IKEA. On the day of the event, seating is first come first serve.
Tickets for Midsummer Buffet $24.99 per adult and $12.99 per child. Members of the IKEA Family rewards club receive discounted prices for the festive event; adult tickets are $19.99, and children are $9.99 if you’re a member. Also, tickets must be purchased in advance, in-store at the IKEA Restaurant.
By Dayton937
The new Steak Chile Verde Fries feature a new Chile Verde sauce that incorporates jalapeño, lime and zesty herbs. This sauce is poured on top of crispy, spiced fries along with Taco Bell’s signature warm nacho cheese sauce, three cheese blend, reduced fat sour cream, crunchy Fiesta strips and marinated and grilled steak for a suggested price of $4.49.

In addition to the new Steak Chile Verde Fries, fans can also enjoy the new Steak Chile Verde Fries Burrito, consisting of the same flavors and ingredients as the Steak Chile Verde Fries, but wrapped in a warm tortilla for a suggested price of $3.99.
For the vegetarians in the group, both the topped fries and burrito can also be made vegetarian for $3.79 and $3.49, respectively.
Taco Bell’s Steak Chile Verde Fries, Steak Chile Verde Fries Burrito and vegetarian variations can be ordered through Taco Bell’s app, in-store, at the drive-thru and via third party delivery for a limited-time through June 28, or while supplies last.
Meanwhile, classic fry fanatics can enjoy the Nacho Fries a la carte for $1.99 or alongside other signature items like the Chicken Chalupa Supreme, Beefy 5-Layer Burrito, Doritos Locos Taco and a medium fountain drink by ordering the Deluxe Cravings Box for $8.49.
Taco Bell has also added two new limited-time frozen slushy beverages to its menu with the introduction of the new Watermelon Berry Freeze and new Watermelon Berry Lemonade Freeze.

The new Watermelon Berry Freeze is a sweet, watermelon-and-berry-flavored Freeze.
Meanwhile, the new Watermelon Berry Lemonade Freeze is a sweet, watermelon-and-berry-flavored Freeze with a swirl of lemonade flavor.
By Dayton937
National Hamburger Day is coming May 28th and some burger joints are starting the deals early. Keep in mind, these are at participating locations only and some offers may only have to be ordered through online apps. More offers may pop up we’ll update this post as we find out about more!
Arby’s – From 5/28 through 6/11, earn a FREE burger with your next purchase when you join Arby’s Rewards and order a burger online.

Burger King – FREE Whopper when you spend $1 from May 26 through May 28, 2023. To take advantage of the offer, simply activate the offer in the “Offers” tab on the BK App or bk.com before making a qualifying purchase of at least a buck.

Hardee’s – Order any burger in the app on May 28th and get an offer for a free Famous Star Burger, or free burgers for a week, a month, or every week for a year. Get the app here – good luck!
Red Robin – Rewards members get a buy-one-get-one 50% off deal on all its gourmet burgers thru May 31st! The deal is only for Red Robin Royalty members, but you can become one for free.

Smashburger – Get 4 burgers for $20 on May 28th in celebration of National Hamburger Day.
Wendys – On National Hamburger Day, get a Junior Bacon Cheeseburger (reg. $3.39) for 1¢ with any purchase!

By Dayton937

The brand’s 5-Layer Gelati features a combination of Italian Ice and Frozen Custard layered in a clear Rita’s cup with an extra layer of Frozen Custard in the middle – for five layers instead of three in the traditional Gelati.
Additionally, fans will also be able to select Rita’s 4th of Gelati, a 5-Layer Gelati made with red and blue Italian Ices and vanilla Frozen Custard to enjoy on or around Memorial Day and Independence Day.
To show appreciation to Rita’s mobile app users, during the month of June loyalty members who purchase a 5-Layer Gelati will receive two loyalty credits per visit, instead of just one. After seven visits, Rita’s loyalty members earn a free small Italian Ice, frozen custard or gelati reward.

3371 E Stroop Rd
Kettering, OH
937-296-0822
Open 7 days a week noon – 9pm
By Dayton937
By Dayton937
The following receive free admission:
In addition, military members can save up to $45 online when purchasing tickets for up to six friends or family members. This is our small way to say thank you for your service! We can’t wait to see you at Kings Island!
How to enter Kings Island on Memorial Day Weekend:
Present valid U.S. Military ID for free admission at the front gate turnstiles any one day 5/26 – 5/29. Additional tickets for friends and family must be purchased online in advance. Verification required.
By Dayton937
As Jollity celebrates it’s 2nd anniversary they are bringing back two of their original dishes this Saturday night!


They’ve also released a new menu:


127 E. 3rd Street
Dayton, OH 45402
937-938-9089
Reservations are suggested
By Dayton937
McDonald’s is celebrating one of Disney’s all-new live-action story with the debut of The Little Mermaid Happy Meal, featuring under-the-sea and on-land characters such as title character Ariel, Eric, Sebastian, and Flounder – for a limited time and while supplies last at participating restaurants
The Little Mermaid Happy Meal can be enjoyed in a variety of options, including:

The Little Mermaid Happy Meal can be found at participating locations nationwide for a limited time.