Enjoy the final opportunity to see our Member’s Spotlight Exhibition: Lori Daugherty: Bold Whispers.
Light refreshments provided.
FREE and open to all
Archives for December 2025
Satchmo & Beyond
Dean Simms returns to perform his famous show: Satchmo & Beyond at Whisperz Speakeasy on Friday, December 26th from 8-11pm. You’ll think Louis Armstrong himself has taken the stage when Dean performs!
Chipotle Mexican Grill First-Ever High Protein Menu
Chipotle Mexican Grill today announced its first-ever High Protein Menu that will roll out today. The curated menu features a High Protein Cup with fresh grilled, hand-cut Adobo Chicken at 32 grams of protein, meeting consumer demand for a quick protein-packed snack. The national weighted average price of a High Protein Cup of Adobo Chicken is $3.82. Chipotle’s popular Adobo Chicken is humanely raised and never given antibiotics, so the menu makes it easy to enjoy clean, high protein options without sacrificing flavor.A high protein diet has held the title as the top diet pattern in the U.S. for three consecutive years. In addition, 70% of Americans say they are prioritizing protein and more than one-third have increased their intake in the past year.2 With the rise of GLP-1s and a broader focus on macronutrients, Chipotle’s new High Protein Menu offers more ways for guests to get the protein they want in the portions that work for them, whether that is a lighter bite or a more substantial build.
The High Protein Menu also features Chipotle’s first-ever snack: a High Protein Cup. Inspired by real protein hacks that Chipotle guests rely on to boost their protein intake (see HERE), the High Protein Cup is 4 ounces of clean, craveable Adobo Chicken or Steak.
The High Protein Menu includes:
- Double High Protein Bowl (81g protein, 11g fiber, 760 calories) – A high protein burrito bowl featuring double Adobo Chicken, light white rice, black beans, fajita veggies, fresh tomato salsa, Monterey Jack cheese and extra romaine lettuce
- High Protein-High Fiber Bowl (46g protein, 14g fiber, 540 calories) – A GLP-1 friendly bowl featuring Adobo Chicken, light brown rice, black beans, fajita veggies, roasted chili-corn salsa, fresh tomato salsa and romaine lettuce
- High Protein-Low Calorie Salad (36g protein, 10g fiber, 470 calories) – A GLP-1 friendly salad featuring Adobo Chicken, Supergreens lettuce mix, fajita veggies, fresh tomato salsa and guac
- Double High Protein Burrito (79g protein, 6g fiber, 840 calories) – A high protein burrito featuring double Adobo Chicken, fresh tomato salsa, fajita veggies, Monterey Jack cheese and romaine lettuce
- High Protein Cup with Adobo Chicken (32g protein, 180 calories) – A 4-ounce side of Adobo Chicken packed with flavor and real protein — the perfect snack or extra side of protein to add to any order.
- Adobo Chicken Taco (15g protein, 190 calories) – A soft flour tortilla, Adobo Chicken, fajita veggies, fresh tomato salsa, Monterey Jack cheese and romaine lettuce
High Protein Built with Superfans
For years, athletes and creators have turned to Chipotle for protein-packed meals, leveraging its customization to hit diverse macro goals. To spotlight how real fans rely on Chipotle for clean protein, the brand is partnering with creators to feature their go-to entrees on the High Protein Menu in the Chipotle app, Chipotle.com and Chipotle.ca starting January 5.
- Josh Hart’s High Protein Burrito (95g protein, 14g fiber, 1340 calories) – A high protein burrito featuring double Adobo Chicken, white rice, black beans, fresh tomato salsa, roasted chili-corn salsa, sour cream, Monterey Jack cheese
- Professional basketball player Josh Hart, a longtime superfan and Chipotle Celebrity Card holder, prioritizes protein at Chipotle to fuel his performance.
- Smaller Sam’s High Protein Tacos (40g protein, 6g fiber, 580 calories) – Three crispy corn tortilla tacos featuring Adobo Chicken, light roasted chili-corn salsa, fajita veggies with sides of tomatillo-red chili salsa and sour cream
- Samantha Milton, @SmallerSam_PCOS, is a health creator who has lost 255 pounds while eating in a calorie deficit and prioritizing protein. Chipotle has been one of Sam’s go-to low-calorie, high-protein meals on her health journey (see HERE, HERE, HERE).
- Kylie’s High Protein Chicken Bowl (52g protein, 12g fiber, 690 calories) – A balanced bowl featuring Adobo Chicken, half white rice, half brown rice, half black beans, half pinto beans, extra fajita veggies, tomatillo green-chili salsa, Monterey Jack cheese and romaine lettuce
- Kylie Sakaida, @nutritionbykylie, is a dietician and bestselling cookbook author who provides accessible, realistic nutrition tips and evidence-based wellness insights for her audience.
Cruising with Chef Anne Kearney
Embark on an extraordinary 10 day excursion through the Adriatic May 1-11, 2026, where the beauty of Croatia’s coast meets the artistry of world-class foods and wines. Hosted by James Beard Award‑winning Chef Anne Kearney and wine expert Brent Wagener, this intimate journey begins in Dubrovnik and concludes in the historic port of Split—unfolding a tapestry of flavors, culture, and seaside luxury along the way.
Aboard your private yacht you will savor bespoke dining experiences, cooking demonstrations, and wine tastings and pairings. Each day brings new indulgences and rare encounters: an exclusive oyster and fish picnic on the sea, a private tuna show on a secluded island, and tastings of Croatia’s celebrated olive oils and coastal wines.
Your voyage includes excursions to some of Dalmatia’s most breathtaking destinations. You can swim in the beautiful clear waters of the Adriatic, discover the hidden secrets of Vis Military Island, and wander the chic streets of Hvar Town, alive with Mediterranean charm.
From golden sunsets on deck to immersive encounters with local heritage keepers, this journey is crafted for discerning travelers who seek more than a vacation. It is a rare chance to experience Croatia through its flavors, stories, and unforgettable coastal beauty—anchored Brent Wagener’s expertise of the wines of the region and the culinary expertise of Chef Anne Kearney
What to Expect on This Extraordinary Journey
Prepare for a seamless, luxurious travel experience from the moment you arrive in Croatia until the moment you depart. This culinary-focused, wine-forward adventure is thoughtfully curated to combine relaxation, exploration, indulgence, and world-class hospitality.
5-Star Luxury Accommodations (Pre & Post-Yachting)
Begin and end your journey in comfort with stays at carefully selected 5-star hotels, offering elegant rooms, exceptional service, and the perfect setting to unwind before and after your time at sea.
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Private Transportation Throughout Your Trip
Your comfort is our priority. Enjoy private ground transfers to and from the airport, hotels, marinas, and scheduled excursions — eliminating travel logistics so you can simply relax and enjoy each moment.
Guided Tours & Exclusive Local Experiences
Explore Croatia’s rich history, culture, and landscapes with expert-led private tours of charming coastal towns, UNESCO heritage sites, and iconic island destinations. These intimate excursions offer authentic local insight, access to hidden gems, and memorable stories behind every stop.
Seven Days of Luxury Yachting Aboard Symphony
Cruise effortlessly along Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian Coast aboard a modern, beautifully appointed yacht. Expect spacious cabins, attentive crew, curated onboard amenities, and daily routes that reveal turquoise waters, secluded coves, and postcard-perfect islands.
Private Culinary Experiences with Chef Anne
Savor exclusive dishes crafted by James Beard Award–winning Chef Anne Kearney, blending European inspiration, classic technique, and her signature “Food of Love” philosophy. Enjoy chef-hosted dinners, special tastings, and opportunities to connect with Anne as she prepares unforgettable meals at sea.
Thoughtful Wine Tastings & Pairings with Brent Wagener
Delight in expertly curated wine experiences guided by Brent Wagener of Wines With Wagener. From regional Croatian varietals to elevated global selections, Brent will lead tastings, pairings, and engaging discussions that deepen your appreciation of every sip.
Whether it’s sunset on deck, swimming in crystal-clear coves, strolling markets overflowing with local flavors, or toasting new friends under the stars — this journey promises meaningful memories you’ll carry long after you return home.
Click here for full Trip Details.
Free Turbo Fitness Class
Join us for another FREE fitness class led by Turbo Zone Fitness!
-Please RSVP at https://forms.gle/Qek3KjVBgxFDnMSj9
(RSVP is not required to attend, but is appreciated for a headcount)
(RSVP is not required to attend, but is appreciated for a headcount)
-Get ready to move, sweat, and smile during a FREE 60 min high-energy, bodyweight fitness class designed for all fitness levels. Their dynamic routines will keep you motivated with a mix of cardio and strength exercises set to an energizing playlist. Come and get fit with Turbo Zone Fitness!
-Please bring a mat, we have a limited amount and please bring a towel if you’d like. Water will be provided!
-Participants will receive a coupon to use on their next purchase!
STRAIGHT NO CHASER At Schuster
Dayton Live welcomes chart-topping a cappella group STRAIGHT NO CHASER to the Benjamin & Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center for one night only on December 23.
Look up “holiday music” in the dictionary, and it’s likely that there is a photo of the nine-person a cappella group Straight No Chaser instead of a standard definition. For more than two decades, the group has provided the soundtrack of the season, bringing millions of fans to their feet while putting them in the holiday spirit. Year after year, fans anxiously await the moment they can officially hit play on Straight No Chaser favorites. And this year is no different.
STRAIGHT NO CHASER: HOLIDAY ROAD TOUR is serving up an all-you-can-eat buffet of holiday music (with none of the calories)! There are no cookie-cutter shows here; each concert serves up a healthy dose of banter between the band members, flawless harmonies, and a blend of old and new music.
With a massive fanbase and a long list of accomplishments including two RIAA Gold Certified albums, over 1.5 million concert tickets sold, over 1 billion streams on Pandora, and over 2 million albums sold worldwide, Straight No Chaser is the real deal: The captivating sound of nine unadulterated human voices coming together to make extraordinary music that is moving people in a fundamental sense… and with a sense of humor.
Mar’Tae Kitchen & Cocktails Adds Brunch To The Menu
Mar’Tae Kitchen & Cocktails, Trotwood’s newest eatery, opens their doors for Sunday brunch today from noon -5pm. Opened in mid- November by siblings Tae Winston and Mark Lee, their goal is to offer elevated soul food and craft cocktails in the neighborhood they grew up in.
Mar’Tae Kitchen & Cocktails
5212 Salem Ave, Trotwood 45426
(937) 529-4120
Wed: Sat 4 -10pm
Sun: noon – 5pm
New Sweet Spot Opens In Englewood
Sweet Tooth Candy Store opened it’s doors this week, offering nostalgic candy, sodas, gifts, and games for ages 3 to 103. They also have vintage candy t-shirts, Ruth Hunt candy bars in a variety of flavors, Woodford Reserve Bourbon Caramels, and assorted flavors of Taffy for just 10 cents each.
Located in the heart of Englewood, Ohio. There’s Ample parking BEHIND
the store and convenient rear and front door entry.
| Sunday | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Monday – Thursday | 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Friday & Saturday | 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
Rare Bourbon Tasting
Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating some of the finest bourbons ever crafted. Your night begins with your choice of a hand-crafted Old Fashioned or Manhattan, elevated with Buffalo Trace.
Reserve Your Experience December 30, 2025 6PM
Tickets are extremely limited. Admission is $147 and does not include gratuity. Secure your place at this exclusive tasting event.
Live Jazz to Celebrate The Winter Solstice
Live jazz music, curated small bites, raffle prizes, winter themed cocktails, timeless games, and more!
Welcome to Twilight Tunes: A Winter Solstice Celebration! Join us at Century Bar Upstairs on December 20, 2025 at 7:00 PM for a magical evening filled with music and festivities. Embrace the winter solstice and enjoy live jazz performances in a cozy setting. Let’s celebrate the longest night of the year together! Don’t miss out on this special event. See you there!
Winter Solstice Hike
Follow the soft glow of luminaries in the snow…
Enjoy the calmness of the woods in winter on the Winter Solstice, the longest night of the year. Refreshments and holiday treats available for those participating in the hike (while supplies last).
This is a self-guided hike along a luminary lit trail.
FREE – NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED!
ROCK FOR A CLAUS: A Holiday Charity Concert
Do you love Christmas Music??
Do you love an evening of fun with Family and Friends??
Do you love helping people in need??THEN THIS IS THE EVENT FOR YOU!
ROCK FOR A CLAUS: A HOLIDAY CHARITY CONCERT is an evening full of Holiday Cheer for the entire family and all your friends. It’s a great way to entertain those out of town guests and show them the talent and love Dayton has to offer!
More Than a Dozen Dayton Area Musicians will take the stage to play tons of Holiday Favorites from classic ballads, to upbeat modern hits. Sing and Dance along to spread Christmas Cheer!
Proceeds will go to local charities to help children and adults in need at the time of year when it is needed most.
Proceeds will go to local charities to help children and adults in need at the time of year when it is needed most.
Artists Featured:
Nate Prior Trio – holiday parody and comedy music
https://natepriortrio.com/
Sarah G and the Major Awards – A Superband of local musicians playing Christmas rock and classics.
Guest Appearances by many local singers and musicians
Nate Prior Trio – holiday parody and comedy musichttps://natepriortrio.com/
Sarah G and the Major Awards – A Superband of local musicians playing Christmas rock and classics.Guest Appearances by many local singers and musiciansCover Starts at 7pm
Music at 8pm
Music at 8pm
$10 at the door
Opportunities to give more
All ages, Under 16 with guardian
Opportunities to give more
All ages, Under 16 with guardian
Proceeds Will Benefit:
House of Bread – Serving a hot, nutritious lunchtime meal to anyone in need. 365 days a year.
For Love of Children – Serves well over 12,000 children annually. Offers programming and resources to children who are abused, neglected, in foster care, and those in need of community resource.
House of Bread – Serving a hot, nutritious lunchtime meal to anyone in need. 365 days a year.For Love of Children – Serves well over 12,000 children annually. Offers programming and resources to children who are abused, neglected, in foster care, and those in need of community resource.BLITZEN Cocktail and Cookie Walk
Who doesn’t LOVE Christmas Cookies……and Cocktails?! Come get Merry with us at the BLITZEN Walk!
Get a head start on holiday celebrating, get away from the stress of the season and join us in historic downtown Middletown for our BLITZEN Cocktail & Cookie Walk on 12/20/25 from 6pm-10pm!
After checking in near the Reimagine Middletown Ice Rink, you will walk to different local establishments to get decadent cookies, lovingly prepared from our bakers! Each “Cookie Stop” will have a specially selected $3 cocktail pairing available for purchase (sold separately at each location).
See you there!
THE NUTCRACKER
After a record-breaking run in 2024, Brandon Ragland’s THE NUTCRACKER returns, bringing holiday magic back to Dayton! Set in our very own city, this beloved tale follows Clara on a breathtaking, time-traveling adventure filled with dazzling choreography, enchanting sets, and Tchaikovsky’s iconic score. A heartwarming tradition for all ages, THE NUTCRACKER is the perfect way to celebrate the season with family and loved ones.
Restaurant Bonus Gift Card Offers
These restaurants are offering bonus cards and coupons when you purchase gift cards. Buy a gift or just treat yourself — and you will get a little extra at these chains. Locally owned businesses are listed in burgundy. We’ll keep adding to this list as we hear of more.
Applebee’s: Buy a $50 gift card and get a free $10 bonus card.
Auntie Anne’s: Buy $25 in gift cards, get a $5 reward code.
Bella Sorella Pizza Co: gift card promo through Dec. 14; for every $40 you spend, get $10 free.PLUS…use a gift card in January and get a free dessert!
BJ’s Brewhouse – Buy a $50 eGift card and receive a $10 Bonus Card to use later. Spend $100 and you’ll get a $20 Bonus Card plus a 20% VIP Card, perfect for future visits.
Bonefish Grill: Buy $50 in gift cards, get a $10 bonus card.
Carrabba’s Italian Grill: Buy $50 in gift cards and get a free $10 bonus card. The bonus card is valid Jan. 1 to Feb. 9.
Chappy’s Social House: buy a Chappys $50 gift card receive a free $10 gift card.
Cherry House Cafe – all gift cards 20% off through Dec 31st.
Chili’s: Buy $50 in gift cards online, get a $10 e-bonus card.
Cold Stone Creamery: Buy $50 in gift cards online, and get a $15 bonus e-card while supplies last. Bonus card is valid through Feb. 28.
ele Cake Company: Buy a $50 gift card, get a $10 bonus card.
El Toro: Buy a $100 gift card and get a $20 one free!
Figlio: Buy $100 in Gift Cards and receive a $25 Bonus card redeemable Jan 1 thru Feb28th
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar: Buy $100 in gift cards and get a free $20 e-bonus card. The bonus card is good Jan. 1 through Feb. 9.
Golden Corral: Buy $50 in gift cards and get a free $10 bonus card. The bonus card is good from Jan. 6 through Feb. 13.
Greek Street: Buy a $50 Greek Street gift card and $10 bonus
IHop: Get a $5 bonus card when you buy $25 in gift cards.
Jay’s Seafood: Buy $75 get $15 free
Long Shots: For every $50 in gift cards, you’ll receive a $10 bonus card! ($100 gift card- 2 $10 bonus cards & so on.)
Loose Ends Brewing: Buy $100 in gift cards, get $20 free.
Milano’s Pizza, Subs & Taps: Buy a $25 gift certificate & you an extra $5 gift certificate for FREE!
Moe’s: Buy $30 in gift cards, get two $5 reward cards.
Noodles & Company: Buy $25 in gift cards online, and get a $5 bonus gift card. The bonus card is valid through Jan. 13.
Old Scratch Pizza: Spend $50 on gift cards and get a $10 gift card for yourself!
Outback Steakhouse: Get a $10 bonus card with a $50 gift card purchase.
Panera Bread: Receive a $10 bonus card for every $50 in gift cards purchased.
Papa Murphy’s: Get a $5 bonus card for every $25 in gift cards purchased.
Qdoba: Buy $50 of gift cards online, get a $10 digital bonus.
Red Lobster: Buy $50 in gift cards and get two coupons for $10 off a minimum $40 order. Each coupon is valid from Jan. 1 through Feb. 28, excluding Feb. 14.
Red Robin: Buy $50 in gift cards online, and get a $10 Bonus Buck reward card . The reward card is good Jan. 1 through Feb. 28.
Rusty Bucket -Get a $10 bonus card for every $50 in Bucket gift cards you purchase. Available through December 30, 2025. Bonus cards are redeemable January 2 – February 28, 2026.
Seasoned with Love: Dec 1st – Dec 24th! Buy $100 in gift cards, gift $25 for free.
Smokey Bones: Buy $25 in gift cardsand get $5 in Bonus Bucks. The Bonus Bucks are redeemable through Jan. 31.
Sky Asian: Buy $100-$299 get 10% bonus, buy $300-$499 get 15% bonus, buy $500+- 20% bonus, buy $1000+, get 30% bonus
Texas Roadhouse: Get a $5 bonus card with a $30 online gift card purchase.
The Cheesecake Factory: Buy $50 in gift cards, get a $10 bonus card
The Dublin Pub: Buy $50 gift card, get $10 FREE, Buy $100, get $25 FREE
The Strange Story Behind Christmas Pickles
If you’ve ever decorated an American Christmas tree, you may have heard of the odd tradition of hiding a glass pickle ornament among the branches. The child who finds it first on Christmas morning supposedly earns a reward or an extra present. It is one of the quirkiest holiday customs in the United States, yet its origins are surprisingly mysterious. For years it has been attributed to German immigrants, but when asked, most Germans had never heard of a “Christmas pickle.” So where did this strange little tradition come from?
One theory traces the pickle ornament back to German glass-blowing workshops in the nineteenth century. Craftsmen in the town of Lauscha produced beautifully detailed fruit and vegetable ornaments, including pickles, which later entered American markets. As these ornaments spread across the United States, clever shopkeepers may have invented the story of the hidden pickle to help sell them. The idea stuck, and soon families all across America adopted the unusual hunt as part of their holiday fun.
Another theory is darker and tied to the American Civil War. According to legend, a Union soldier held in a Confederate prison camp was given a single pickle on Christmas Eve by a guard. That pickle, the story says, gave him just enough strength to survive until he was rescued. Out of gratitude, the soldier supposedly introduced the Christmas pickle tradition once he returned home. Historians have never been able to confirm this tale, but it persists as one of the more dramatic explanations behind the ornament.
Regardless of where the ornament story began, pickles themselves were a very real part of winter survival in northern Europe. Families across Germany, Poland, and the Baltic regions fermented cucumbers, cabbage, and root vegetables each autumn to ensure they had food that would last through long, cold winters. Pickling was a vital preservation method, and jars filled with brine and spices lined cellars for months. In that sense, the Christmas pickle—whether glass or edible—does connect to genuine Old World traditions of winter preparedness.
Today, the Christmas pickle is less about survival and more about delight. It is a playful little mystery tucked into the holiday tree, a tradition that blends imagination, immigrant history, and a touch of folklore. Whether it began in a German workshop or a Civil War camp, it has become a charming part of the American Christmas story.
Do you hide the Christmas pickle in your tree each year?
Donnie Dodson is the creator behind Eats History, a passionate storyteller who explores the past not through textbooks or lectures, but through the food that shaped it. He makes it clear that he’s not a historian, and he’s not a professional chef.
But what he brings to the table is something more: an unmatched obsession with telling history and culture through a culinary lens. Through food, he tells the stories of empires, revolutions, forgotten rulers, and everyday people just like us in a way that feels tangible, entertaining, and unexpectedly emotional.
