Dayton937

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

Archives for December 2024

Dayton Jazz Orchestra Christmas Spectacular

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The DJO is back in action Sunday December 22nd at the Hidden Gem for our annual Christmas Spectacular! This will be a wonderful evening of Holiday favorites Big Band style! You can even sing along! The DJO is led by Stan Kenton alumni John Harner along with the amazing Debra Hunter on vocals, so come down in your best holiday attire and bring your family and friends, it will be a fun night!!! See you on Sunday the 22nd!!!
Door opens at 6:00pm, music 7:00-9pm
$10 at the door, all ages.
Pizza by the Pizza Gem!

Wanna Drive The Weinermobile?

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Oscar Meyer has opened up applications for new drivers for its iconic Weinermobile . If you’ve dreamed of driving a 27-foot-long hot dog up and down the roads of America, you’ve got until Jan. 31 to apply for the job.

It’s a paid gig, too! Hotdoggers, as the drivers are called, earn a base salary of $35,600 as well as a weekly allowance of $150 for meals and personal travel. They also get 18 days of paid time off, full health benefits and (naturally) 100% of all of their hotel expenses covered.

Think you can cut the mustard and stand above the competition? Here’s what you’ll need to be considered for the job. ( You can apply here .) 

You’ll need a Bachelor’s degree, preferably in public relations, journalism, communications, advertising, or marketing. It helps to be bilingual. And introverts need not apply.

You’ll also need a driver’s license  and be able to work major holidays. And you’ll need to clear a background check.

Not only will you drive the iconic vehicle all over the country, you’ll represent Oscar Meyer at more than 200 events throughout the year. That will involve handing out more than 250,000 Wiener Whistles to fans.

Just be warned: A a lot of people relish this job. Less than 1% of applicants are selected for the 12 openings. Oscar Meyer says that makes it harder to become a Hotdogger than it is to get into an Ivy League university.

This will be the 38 th round of Hotdoggers. The Wienermobile has been traveling the U.S. since 1936.

 

Troy Theater & Cocktail Bar Ownership Changes

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The historic Mayflower in downtown Troy is set to undergo a change in ownership and operation on January 1, 2025.
Following a year-long renovation that has transformed the theater into a restaurant, live music venue and retail store. The Mayflower has been operated by A.M. Scott Distillery since May 2, 2024. The last day of operations as The Mayflower by A.M. Scott Distillery will be December 31, 2024.
A.M. Scott Distillery is a spirits company led by Anthony Scott and housed at 214 S Mulberry Street in Troy. The company has decided to shift focus to its core revenue stream of manufacturing and distribution. You can continue to enjoy their spirits at Scotty’s Bottle Parlor located at the distillery.
“A.M. Scott Distillery and its team has thoroughly enjoyed its partnership with Martin and being an integral part of the Mayflowers development. We now look forward to our primary focus of creating and distributing quality spirits.” stated Scott.
Wes Martin, owner of Busted Brick Realty, LLC and Village Vantage, purchased the Mayflower building in 2022. Under the umbrella of Village Vantage, Martin and his partners will lead The Mayflower ownership and operations beginning January 1 2025. While the legal name and identity of The Mayflower is subject to change, the intent is that the nature of the entities remain.

Wes Martin

“I would like to thank the A.M. Scott team for their efforts towards this project. We now look forward to the future with the intent of creating an inclusive space rooted in entertainment and hospitality.” stated Martin.

2025 hours of operation and additional information regarding the future of The Mayflower will be announced in the coming weeks.

Foodie News In Review For 2024

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Some of our biggest stories  on Dayton937.com in 2024 have to do with food!

Whether it was breaking the news about new openings like when we announced the new Blueberry Cafe opening or the 2nd Tokyo Grill & Sushi Buffet at the Fairfield Commons in Beavercreek or Five Grains Noodle House opening in the former Chop Suey in Kettering.  The news of the reopening of The Ugly Duckling in St. Anne’s Hill and Hummus Mediterranean Cuisine opening in Springboro attracted a lot of  eyeballs. Mudlick Tap House‘s announcement of a Centerville location was huge news.  Red Bird Pizza opened in Miamisburg, Napoli’s opened a 2nd location in Beavercreek, Mun-O-Salwa brought Indian/Pakistani food to Riverside. Fairborn got a middle eastern BBQ joint and Mz Jade brought soul food to the W. Social Tap and Table while Scramble by Cafe 19 brought breakfast to Brookville and Sakura Sushi & Korean Cuisine opened in Beavercreek.

Over 70 new restaurants opened in the Miami Valley in 2024. The newest one Chicken Salad Chick  opened today in Centerville.

The selling of Franco’s to Jimmy’s Italian Cuisine, new ownership of Thai9,  the closing of  Flyboys Deli, Mad River Tavern and Moeller Brew Barn downtown also drew huge interest from our readers. Thai Table got new owners, while the previous owners opened Thai Village in Centerville after opening Honey Toast earlier this year.  Holly’s Home Cooking closed in West Carrollton allowing the Legacy Pancake House to find a new home after fire displaced them.  Frisch’s closings seemed to bring out fans and haters and put a lot of locals out of work.  They still have several more locations closing this month, yet talk of new ownership is giving long time fans hope.

We also celebrated the longevity of some of our local food establishments, like the 16th anniversary of Emily Collins owning The Root Beer Stande, Victor’s Taco Shops 14th location, Bellbrook Chocolate celebrated their 40th anniversary, The Dock celebrated 30 years of seafood.  Falb’s Restaurant, home to Dayton’s oldest lunch counter, is still serving up cabbage rolls on the third Friday of the month.

Brunch also seems to be a big interest as Table 33 reopened in a new location, Manna Uptown, The Foundry , The Florentine  & El Meson added a Sunday brunch to their menu, Huber Heights Sands started a monthly brunch and the Dublin Pub changed from a buffet brunch to off the menu offerings while  All The Best Delicatessen added breakfast. Miami Valley Meals hosted their 3rd Diced fundraiser with chefs from Grist walking away with the championship.

A viral video blew up Val’s Bakery, local Chef Dana Downs took on her former employee Matt Klum on Food Network’s “SuperChef Grudge Match“, announced a rebrand of Roost to Culina, then quickly took it back.  Archer’s Tavern headed to the National Buffalo Wing Festival and brought back some trophies.

Some restaurants continue to reinvent themselves, like DOZO at Tender Mercy,  Red Lobsters menu overhaul after emerging from bankruptcy, the El Toro family launched Vallarta Mexican & Seafood and Toasted Brunch Bar + Cafe, and Old Scratch Pizza opening on Mondays. Speaking of Monday’s, over 150 of our local eateries are open on Monday’s, something lots of folks didn’t know.

We gained several new coffee shops this year, including Kettering’s Socialite Cafe, MidDay Cafe opened in Mid-town,  Centerville’s Contempo Coffee got some national attention, there’s a new bakery in Yellow Springs while Lucy’s Pastry Palace opened at the 2nd Street Market.

Food Challenges, like TJ Chump’s burger battle, Submarine House’s Cheesesteak challenge and Glazed’s dirty 30  kept folks eating, while decks of foodie cards helped local diners save money.  Our own Bryan Suddith  quests to  find the best Cuban Sandwich as well as the best Baby Back Ribs seem to keep you all talking.  Some of our most viewed stories include places kids eat cheap or free, options for boxed lunches, our list of restaurants with private rooms.

No matter what’s happening in the Miami Valley food scene, DaytonDining will keep letting you know about it.

 

Artisan Bread Basics Class

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join Allison with Rise’n Allen Dough Company for this Artisan Bread Basics Class.
She will teach you how to feed & maintain your Sourdough starter, mixing, shaping, scoring a loaf, and how to bake the perfect Sourdough loaf.
We will prepare the loaf for you to take home to bake.
Participants ARE REQUIRED to provide a Dutch Oven for baking the bread or have the option to purchase one at the time of registration.
All other supplies are included: Bowl, Danish Whisk, Kitchen Scale, Bench Scraper, Banneton, Bread Lame, a favorite bread recipe, and your own sourdough starter.
Stop in during business hours or call (937) 912-5065 to register. Space is limited!
$80 – you provide a Dutch Oven (at least 6.5qt)
$130 – Dutch Oven provided
($5 fee added for Card purchases)

Sinclair Theatre presents ‘Twas, A Holiday Musical

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More music and dance added to this family-friendly story of holidays explained by pets left alone on Christmas Eve. Understanding Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and La Posada opens their eyes to possibilities other than a “visitor in red”. They discover that humans may celebrate in different ways, but ultimately, we must “rescue” each other all year through. 

All performances are ASL shadow interpreted offering a unique experience to all audiences! 

All tickets $8, plus $2 ticketing fee. Please purchase tickets online at www.sinclair.edu/tickets. All patrons, regardless of age, must have a ticket and an assigned seat (including infants). 

BREAKING NEWS: Kim Deal kicks off first-ever solo tour at The Brightside

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Photo of Kim Deal by Kristin Sollecito

The Brightside Music & Event Venue proudly announces that Dayton music icon Kim Deal will kick off her first-ever solo tour supporting her new album Nobody Loves You More right here in her hometown. This unforgettable evening will be held at The Brightside on Thursday, February 20, 2025. Tickets went on sale Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at 11 am.

Kim Deal is a transformative force in the music industry. Known for her pioneering work with two legendary alternative rock bands, The Pixies and The Breeders, her influence spans four decades. She is also a cherished figure in the Dayton music community, inspiring countless artists and fans alike. This concert celebrates Kim and her place in Dayton’s vibrant musical history.

Her debut solo album, Nobody Loves You More, released last month to much acclaim. Its diverse influences are evident throughout, thanks to collaborations with the late Steve Albini, members of The Breeders, and other respected musicians. Most importantly, this album showcases Kim’s exceptional abilities.


After the exciting Dayton concert on February 20th, the tour will continue on to the vibrant cities of London, Boston, New York, DC, Portland, Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Barcelona, along with many other culturally rich destinations.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to get to host this show at The Brightside and add Dayton to the tour,” said Carli Dixon, co-owner of The Brightside. “And as a female-led venue, it’s a great joy for us to host Kim Deal, such a local female hero to all of us. We couldn’t be more excited!”

HOW TO GO?
Thursday, February 20, 2025.
The Brightside Music & Event Venue – 905 E 3rd St, Dayton, 45402
Doors open at 7pm / Show starts at 8pm
All ages (under 18 with parental supervision)
Tickets $30 General Admission here:
https://tickets.venuepilot.com/e/kim-deal-nobody-loves-you-more-tour-2025-02-20-the-brightside-music-event-venue-dayton-389968

More information on the venue at thebrightsidedayton.com
More information about Kim Deal at kimdealmusic.com

Urban Elevation Accelerator Accepting Entrepreneur Applicants

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The Urban Elevation Accelerator  is now available to help Dayton entrepreneurs access critical resources to elevate in business.

The Urban Elevation Accelerator is a nine-month program to help entrepreneurs start or grow their business with the intention of creating positive profits and a strong business foundation for underrepresented and under-resourced entrepreneurs.

A mix of educators, subject matter experts, successful entrepreneurs, students and others will work with entrepreneurs at all stages of their business development.

Up to twenty entrepreneurs will be accepted into the program, which begins with a six-week bootcamp called the Elevation Academy on Saturdays from 10am – 2pm  starting February 1, 2025 – March 8, 2025. There is no cost to participate.

Program Benefits

  • Six weeks of business skill training through the Elevation Academy

  • Three months of free mentoring from business owners and entrepreneurs

  • Student consulting for a special project

  • Connections to community resources to help your business grow

  • Access to the Cultural Capital Micro-lending Program and other funding opportunities

  • Promotion of your business in on the GWDI website and social media platforms

  • Additional training and classes to support your business

  • Access to office and or co-working and meeting space at the Greater West Dayton Incubator at the Hub powered by PNC Bank

As an Urban Elevation Accelerator participant, you can take advantage of coworking space at The Hub powered by PNC Bank and at the GWDI while particpating in programs to help your business grow. All businesses are eligible to apply for the fellowship. Preference will be considered for GWDI clients who have participated in past programs, identify as underrepresented, under-resourced, and/or historically marginalized, and is located or serve customers in Greater West Dayton.

The deadline to apply for the program is January 10, 2025. Applicants will be notified of a final decision by January 20, 2025.  If you have any questions about the program, please contact Whitney Barkley, program facilitator at 614-772-9800 or [email protected]

The Ugly Sweater Oh What Fun Run

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December 20 is National Ugly Sweater Day! Join us for a fun run inspired by one of the most “fashionable” parts of the holiday season! Wear your ugliest sweater (or make one yourself!) and be ready to learn about some of the ugly “sweaters” we can find in the natural world. Vote on the “ugliest sweater” in nature to enter a raffle!

The 100-meter dash will begin promptly at 10:30 am. This is a Tools to Trek program.

This event is sponsored by Dayton Children’s Hospital.

FIRST-TIME REGISTRANTS: If you are a Centerville/Washington Township resident, please enter Dayton as your city when creating an account. The system WILL NOT recognize you as a resident if you enter Centerville or Washington Township as your city.

From The Painting Studio To Her Own Gift Shop

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I met Shelly Massey at the studio she once had at Front Street and learned that before moving to Dayton she had taught at large art retreats all over the country.
When I heard she’d opened her own store – Luck Gallery and Gifts . I was curious what type of store an artist would have. I decided to stop by.
“After leaving my Front Street studio I had wanted to open a store for some time, but couldn’t find the right space” Shelly told me. “Then in September I visited my friend Holly at her store “Suburban Hippy.” She told me that the building next door to her was about to become vacant. I contacted the landlord right away, signed the lease in October and opened this store November 1.”
“Creating this new store has been as creative in its own way as painting. I’ve made a space here that I love to spend time in and I’ve filled it with a lot of gift items that make me happy. The reaction from customers has been great to hear. One woman told me “I’ve just been smiling the whole time I’m in your store.”
Luck Gallery and Gifts is filled with an interesting mix of things -puzzles, scarves, mugs, candles, coloring books, cards, bags, etc. I asked about the art on the walls.
“That’s all my art” Shelly said. “I hope to have more of my art up and for sale as soon as I get a handle on things. So the store will have a different look the next time you stop in. In fact, I want that to always be the case. I want to fill the store with a constantly changing mix of things that I love.”
Luck Gallery and Gifts
337 South Main
Springboro, OH 45066
 Tues –  Sat, 10am – 5pm

TheatreLab’s Popular ‘Merry QUIZMas’ Trivia and SingAlong returns!!

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HO, HO, HO!

How many reindeer paws landed on the roof if all the deer showed up at your house? What is Cindy Who’s middle name? What is the longitude and latitude of the North Pole? Phew!!! You know them all??? Prizes await at the return of TheatreLab Dayton’s ‘Merry Quizmas 2.0!’ The popular sing-along and trivia night is set and ready to go, Tuesday Evening, Dec 17,  6:00 PM – 8:00 PM!!

The night promises to be a fun one, as music fills the air, cookies fill your bellies and a trivia fills your brain! ‘We had such a positive response last year, we knew we had to bring this back.  Similar to last time, we will have our little spread of food, hot chocolate and cookies, and of course, the space will be decorated in a fun and fanciful theme! If you like libations, yep, they will be there as well!’ says David Moyer, who can’t wait for the evening. ‘People love to sing holiday songs and get into the spirit!’

The event features Philip Drennen, TheatreLab’s Executive Director and Josh Stucky, Dayton’s Trivia Queen at the microphones. It is never a dull moment! Brennan Paulin tickles the ivories to keep music in the air! Some of the TheatreLab Company will perform as well!! ‘What makes the night so special is we all gather together and just enjoy an evening of fun! It’s a great kick-off for the holidays and, for trivia buffs, it’s a great way to show your smarts! Prizes are always a fun incentive!’ says Stucky. ‘Last year, one of winners said she planned to give her prize as a gift….so I guess it can be a shopping experience as well???’ he chuckles.

Although most of the trivia revolves around the season, there are Broadway Questions, Dayton trivia and more. The event takes places at the TheatreLab Dayton Studio, 116 North Jefferson St. 45402. Proceeds benefit TheatreLab’s ongoing goal of bringing amazing productions to the area. ALSO OF NOTE…THEATRELAB WILL ANNOUNCE THEIR SEASON AT THE EVENT!!! UH-OH!!

The space is limited, and tickets are moving…so click below and join the holiday fun!!

Tickets:

https://www.simpletix.com/e/merry-quizmas-2-0-holiday-trivia-tickets-196032

Restaurants Open Christmas Eve & Christmas Day 2024

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Are you planning to dine out on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day? Look no further! We have a range of dining options available to make your Christmas celebrations special.  Make your reservations now as many of these will book up quickly. And of course remember to tip big to show your appreciation for those working the holiday. We’ll keep adding to this list as hear from more restaurants.

Blue Crab Juicy Seafood
8901 Kingsridge Drive, Dayton|  937-813-8081
12/24 11:30 am-10 pm
12/25 11:30 am-10 pm

2818 Miamisburg Centerville Road, Dayton| (937) 428-0082
12/24 11am – 8pm
12/25 Closed

Bravo Italian Kitchen
2770 Miamisburg Centerville Road, Centerville | (937) 439-1294
12/24 11am – 9pm
12/25 11am – 10pm

Bright Moon Buffet
2900 Wilmington Pike, Kettering |  937-999-4108
12/24 11am – 8pm
12/25 11am – 9pm

Brio Italian Grille 
4459 Cedar Park Drive, The Greene | 937-429-7792
12/24 11am – 9pm
12/25 11am – 9pm

Brunch Pub
 101 W. Franklin, Centerville | (937) 999-4622
12/24 8am – 3pm
12/25 closed

Butter Cafe
1106 Brown St, Dayton | (937) 985-9917
12/24 8am -2pm Eve,
12/25 closed

China Garden Buffet

675 W. Central Ave, Springboro | (937) 743-0888
12/24 11am – 9pm
12/25 11am – 9pm

CJ Chan
2747 W Alex Bell Rd, Moraine | 937-259-8882
12/24 11am-10pm
12/25 11am-10pm

Curry and Grill
1501 Lyons Road, Washington Twsp | 937-435-8888
11am – 2:30pm and 4:30-9:30pm

Dewberry 1850
1414 South Patterson Boulevard, Dayton | 937-223-1000
12/24 7am -1opm
12/25 7am -1opm

Fleming’s Fine Steakhouse & Wine Bar
4432 Walnut Street | 937-223-1000
12/24 11am – 10pm
12/25 closed

Fu Mon Lau
2008 Miamisburg Centerville Rd, Dayton |  (937) 293-2211
12/24 11am – 9:30pm
12/25 11am – 9:30pm

Golden Corral
6611 Miller Ln, Dayton
2490 Commons Blvd Beavercreek,
12/24 7 am – 10 pm
12/25 closed

Halal Burgers
 767 Lyons Road, Dayton| 937-400-8311
12/24 11am – 10pm
12/25 11am – 10pm

Hello Thai 
3301 Dayton Xenia Rd. Beavercreek
12/24 11am – 3pm, 4:30pm – 9pm
12/25 11am – 3pm, 4:30pm – 9pm

Honey Toast
130 N Broad Street, Fairborn|
12/24 6am – 2pm
12/25 8am – 2pm

Jeet India
2750 North Fairfield Road, Beavercreek | (937) 431-8881
12/25 11:30am – 2pm and 5-10pm

Jyot India Restaurant
2620 Colonel Glenn Hwy, Fairborn | 937-702-9627
12/25 Noon – 9:30pm

Outback Steakhouse | multiple locations
6800 Miller Lane, Dayton|
5181 Cornerstone North Blvd., Centerville,
2560 Miamisburg Centerville Road, Dayton Mall
1801 Towne Park Drive, Troy
12/24 11am – 10pm
12/25 closed

Pasha Grill
72 Plum St, Beavercreek | 937.429.9000
12/24 11am – 10pm
12/25 noon – 9pm

Pizza Dive
4021 Dayton Xenia Rd, Beavercreek | (937) 431-8669
12/24 11am  – 6pm
12/25 closed

Red Lobster | multiple locations
2803 N. Fairfield Rd, Beavercreek
6500 Miller Lane,  Dayton
8200 N Springboro Pike, Miamisburg
12/24  11am – 8pm
12/25 11am – 9pm

Roscoe’s Pizza
6782 Corwin Avenue | 513-897-0966
12/24 11am – 9pm
12/25 11am – 9pm

Rum Runners
2318 E Dorothy Ln, Kettering |  (937) 723-6833
12/24 closed
12/25 1-7pm

 

Sky Asian Cuisine
4090 Wilmington Pike, Kettering | (937) 949-9883
12/24 11am – 3pm and 4:30-10pm
12/25 11am – 3pm and 4:30-10pm

Sonora Grill
5450 Burkhardt , Dayton |937-963-5700
12/24 11am – 7pm
12/25 11am – 10pm

Tandor India and Pizza
7695 Old Troy Pike, Dayton |  937-999-4220
12/25 11am – 9pm

Thai Kitchen
2335 Miamisburg Centerville Road, Dayton | (937) 436-5079
12/24 11am -9pm
12/25 11am – 9pm

Thai Village
5201 Cornerstone N Blvd, Centerville |937-739-8888

12/24 11:0am – 3:00pm  & 4:30am  – 9:00pm
12/25 11:0am – 3:00pm  & 4:30am  – 9:00pm

 

Is Your Burger Worthy of TJ Chumps Battle Of The Burgers?

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Get ready for the ultimate burger showdown that every foodie has been waiting for! TJ Chumps’ 6th Annual Battle of the Burgers is back, giving burger enthusiasts the chance to showcase their culinary creativity. Last year’s champion, Tim Franck, took the crown with his “Tim Chorizo Burger” — a USDA Angus patty topped with crumbled pork chorizo, creamy queso blanco, a fried egg, chipotle ranch, and sliced jalapeños, all on a brioche bun. Rumor has it this year’s competition is shaping up to be even more intense!

Tim Franck, with his winning“Tim Chorizo Burger”

From inventive takes on American classics to wildly creative new concepts, no topping is off-limits in the Miami Valley. Whether it’s fried pickles, noodles, or even fries, this competition is all about pushing boundaries. Participants will battle for a chance to not only earn bragging rights but also win an incredible prize: a $500 TJ Chumps gift card and the honor of having their winning recipe featured on the February menu.

Think you’ve got what it takes? Submit your burger masterpiece from December 13th to December 31st. The top 4 creations will enter live voting from January 3rd to January 12th, with the ultimate champion crowned on January 21st. So grab your apron, fire up the grill, and let the Battle of the Burgers begin!

Do you have what it takes to make the ultimate TJ Chumps burger? For more information, visit TJChumps.com/battle, and keep an eye out on our social media.

Nominations Open For 2025 Dayton Walk of Fame

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Wright Dunbar, Inc. announces that 2025 Dayton Region Walk of Fame nominations forms are now available online. They can be submitted online or mailed to Wright Dunbar, Inc., 1139 W. Third Street, Suite 200, Dayton, OH 45402.  Nominations must be typed and received by noon on Friday, February 28, 2025.

Individuals or groups from the Dayton region or who have spent a significant amount of time in the region and have made an enduring impact on the local community, the region, the nation and or world are eligible for nomination. Arts/Culture, Aviation, Business/Corporate Leaders, Community Service, Education, Entertainment/Media, Environment, Government/Military, Invention/Innovation, Law, Medicine, Philanthropy, Science, Significant Personal Achievement and Sports are the categories highlighted.  

2024 honorees were The Breeders, Clay and MaryAnn Mathile, Idotha “Bootsie” Neal, The Osborne Brothers, and G. Douglas Talbott, M.D. A list of past inductees is available at the above website.

The Walk of Fame is located on West Third Street in the historic Wright Dunbar Commercial District between Shannon Street and Broadway. Visitors are welcome to tour and see stones.

Sunset at the Market: Holiday Magic

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Events, vendor updates and highlights from downtown Dayton's favorite Market.