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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.

Sunset Yoga at Deeds Point

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Join Satsang Yoga & Wellness for a relaxing evening of yoga as we follow a gentle flow sequence while we watch the sun set over the beautiful park. This in-person event will take place on various Thursday evenings through the Spring and Summer months. Bring your yoga mat and get ready to unwind and stretch in the great outdoors. All levels are welcome, so whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned yogi, come and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Tickets are just $10 per person and you can purchase them on Eventbrite at the link above.
To help you cool down and rehydrate after our workout, we have 16oz bottles of ORGANIC, cold-pressed juices available for you to grab for just $8/bottle. With just 5 simple organic ingredients—apples, pineapple, lemon, beets, and ginger—this juice is sure to give your body the hydration it needs in the summer heat! To pre-order juices, simply click on “add ons” at checkout when you purchase your ticket!
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect with nature and find inner peace through yoga. See you there!

Blues Fest at Levitt Pavilion

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Join us this year as we celebrate the Blues Fest, part of the Amplified Series sponsored by the City of Dayton. 

Doug Hart at the Blues Fest at Levitt Pavilion DaytonDoug Hart: Doug Hart, a Dayton, OH native, discovered his passion for music early, starting with the trumpet and later teaching himself guitar. Influenced by iconic bands like Van Halen and Led Zeppelin, Doug formed his first band post-high school and eventually immersed himself in blues, inspired by legends like Stevie Ray Vaughan. In 1998, he founded the Doug Hart Band (DHB), which has become a staple in the southwest Ohio blues scene, competing in the International Blues Challenge and performing at renowned venues such as Buddy Guy’s Legends and B.B. King’s in Memphis. Doug released his debut album “Reckless Life” in 2005, with a follow-up in progress. The current DHB lineup includes Rob Thaxton on bass and Craig Comer on drums, promising a dynamic blues/rock experience.

Shaun Booker Dammit Band Blues Fest Levitt Pavilion Dayton

Shaun Booker Dammit Band: Shaun Booker, a Columbus, Ohio-based singer/songwriter and international recording artist, draws inspiration from her spiritual and blues roots. Known as “The Empress of Beale Street,” she has been inducted into The Columbus Blues Hall of Fame and won the 2023 Columbus Blues Challenge. Her band, The Shaun Booker Dammit Band, was a top 5 finalist at the 2024 International Blues Challenge, promising to captivate audiences with their soulful blues performances.

Anthony Gomes Blues Fest Levitt Pavilion DaytonAnthony Gomes: Anthony Gomes, a Canadian vocalist, guitarist, songwriter, and producer, electrifies blues and rock with his powerful performances. Known for his fret-burning guitar skills, he has topped the Billboard Blues Chart, earned endorsements from legends like B.B. King, and performed globally. His latest album, “High Voltage Blues,” showcases his unique blend of blues and rock. Gomes has shared the stage with icons such as Buddy Guy and Joe Bonamassa, and his music continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

MJ: The Musical June 24 – 29

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He is one of the greatest entertainers of all time. Now, Michael Jackson’s unique and unparalleled artistry comes to Dayton in MJ, the multiple Tony Award®-winning musical centered around the making of the 1992 Dangerous World Tour. Created by Tony Award®-winning director/choreographer Christopher Wheeldon and two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage, MJ goes beyond the singular moves and signature sound of the star, offering a rare look at the creative mind and collaborative spirit that catapulted Michael Jackson into legendary status. It’s thrilling sold out crowds on Broadway, in cities across North America, and in London’s West End… and now MJ is startin’ somethin’ in Dayton as it makes its premiere at the Schuster Center.

Four Courses, Exceptional Pairings with Cakebread Cellars

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On Tuesday, June 24th at 6:30pm J. Alexander’s is partnering with Cakebread Cellars for an exclusive wine and dining experience! Enjoy an evening of exceptional wines expertly paired with a four-course signature meal.

 

First Course: Spanish Garlic Shrimp

    • Jumbo shrimp sautéed in Cakebread Sauvignon Blanc, smoked paprika, baguette
  • Paired with Cakebread Cellars Sauvignon Blanc

Second Course: Watermelon Salad

    • Baby arugula, crispy panko, feta, cucumbers, pistachios, house vinaigrette
  • Paired with Cakebread Cellars Chardonnay

Third Course: Beef Wellington

    • Red wine reduction, fondant potatoes
  • Paired with Cakebread Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon

Fourth Course: Strawberry Shortcake

    • Balsamic gastrique, fresh whipped cream
  • Paired with Cakebread Cellars ‘Two Creeks Vineyards’ Pinot Noir


Tickets are $125 per person (not including tax & gratuity). Guests can reserve a spot at the location of their choice using the following link: https://www.jalexanders.com/cakebread_wine_dinner/.

Rick Springfield: I Want My 80s Tour

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Grammy award-winning musician, actor and New York Times best-selling author Rick Springfield will hit the road this summer on the 2025 edition of his “I Want My 80’s Tour”.  The tour will also include special guests John Waite, Wang Chung, and Paul Young.  The tour will visit 42 American cities and feature such enduring hits as “Jessie’s Girl,” “Don’t Talk to Strangers,” “Missing You” “Everybody Have Fun Tonight,” “Every Time You Go Away,” “On the Dark Side,” and many more of the most iconic songs of the 80’s. This special tour is sure to delight music fans of what is regularly described as the greatest decade in pop/rock music.

Jungle Jim’s Craft Beer Festival

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General Admission

Celebrate everything craft beer-related in this sudsy spectacular showcasing over 100 local and national craft breweries and more than 400 beers. Sample Lagers, Ales, Sours, Ciders, Seltzers, and canned cocktails from around the world with your complimentary commemorative beer cup. Enjoy the Tri-state’s best food trucks while sipping your samples and listening to live music.

Non-Drinker

Spend the evening with your beer-loving family and friends! Each Non-Drinker ticket comes with complimentary soda, coffee, and water. Plus, the bourbon bar at The Oscar Station will have drinks available for purchase, so you can enjoy a cocktail even if you’re not a beer fan. Thanks for joining us!

More Than Beer

Food Trucks
If you get hungry, head outside, where food trucks from across the Tri-State will have unique bites available for purchase! Enjoy a light snack or a meal while sipping your samples and listening to live music!

Cigars
Cigars will be available for purchase from our selection of world-class cigars from Jungle Jim’s humidor. Enjoy your smoke and your beer sample in the designated smoking area!

Souvenirs and Charity
If you love our Craft Beer Festival, take home a t-shirt or participate in our silent auction. All proceeds will be donated to the local non-profit, The Purple Monkey Project!

Dayton Dance Initiative CoLab II

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Dayton Dance Initiative proudly presents CoLab II — back by popular demand after the success of Making Moves: The CoLab in 2023! Now in its seventh season, DDI invites you to witness a dynamic celebration of creativity, collaboration, and community.
CoLab II is a fusion of Dayton’s most vibrant multidisciplinary artists, coming together to ignite the stage with six brand-new, original dance works featuring live and original music, costume design, film, creative non-fiction, dramaturgy, and more, all crafted by the incredible talents living and working right here in our city.
This year’s powerhouse lineup of dancers, choreographers, and artists hails from iconic local institutions including Dayton Ballet, Dayton Contemporary Dance Company 2, Wright State University, Cincinnati Ballet Academy, University of Dayton, Sinclair Community College, Discover Classical, and the Dayton Daily News.
Fueled by the generous support of the Montgomery County Arts District (MCACD) Special Projects Grant administered by Culture Works, CoLab II is more than a performance — it’s a bold statement of artistic unity, innovation, and the boundless power of creative collaboration.
Join us and experience the magic — where dance meets every corner of Dayton’s artistic heartbeat.

Table 33 Temporarily Closed

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Due to a recent fire in an apartment above their space, Table 33 will be closing temporarily. Thankfully, everyone is safe — but between the fire and the water damage that followed, they’ve got some cleanup and construction ahead of them before they can safely welcome you back.
Restaurant Management shares “they are heartbroken to hit pause, even for a little while, but they’re committed to doing this the right way so they can come back stronger — and drier — than ever.”
They don’t have a reopening date just yet, but they promise to keep you updated along the way. The entire staff appreciates your patience, support, and all the love their customers have shown us over the years.

Little Caesars Launches Fantastic Four-N-One pizza

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Little Caesars is bringing fantastic variety to the table this summer with the launch of the Fantastic Four-N-One Pizza, a heroic new creation inspired by Marvel Studios’ “The Fantastic Four: First Steps”, in theaters July 25.

Inspired by Marvel’s iconic first family, the Fantastic Four-N-One Pizza delivers four bold flavor combinations in one large pie—perfect for families, friend groups, and anyone looking to enjoy a little bit of everything.

Starting as early as June 16, guests can enjoy two slices each of:

  • Classic Cheese

  • Pepperoni

  • Italian Sausage & Bacon

  • Pepperoni & Jalapeño

All for just $7.99.

In addition to the limited-time Fantastic Four-N-One Pizza, Marvel joined forces with Little Caesars to design its first-ever exclusive pizza boxes for the campaign. When all four collectible boxes are put together, they reveal a hidden image connecting all four characters.

“This is a big moment for our brand,” said Greg Hamilton, Chief Marketing Officer at Little Caesars. “We’re thrilled to work with Marvel Studios to bring the excitement of ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ into our stores and into homes across the country. It’s a delicious, craveable, and family-friendly way to celebrate the heroes that bring us together.”

As part of this campaign, Little Caesars is also launching an exclusive deal with Fandango. Guests who purchase $20 or more (in-restaurant or online, excluding third-party delivery) between June 16 and August 10 will receive a code on their Little Caesars receipt for $4 off a movie ticket to see “Marvel Studios’ The Fantastic Four: First Steps” in theaters. **

The film, set in a 1960s-inspired New York, features an all-star cast including Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Marvel’s First Family. In “The Fantastic Four: First Steps”, the team faces their most cosmic challenge yet when Galactus and the Silver Surfer threaten Earth’s very existence. In a fun nod to the collaboration, fans might even catch Little Caesars featured in a couple of scenes in the film itself.

The Fantastic Four-N-One Pizza is available ONLINE at participating Little Caesars locations starting June 16 for a soft launch, with a national media push beginning June 23. Guests can customize their pizza with or without jalapeños, ensuring everyone has a fantastic slice waiting.

Little Caesars Locations in the Miami Valley:
832 S Main St
Centerville, OH 45458
5390 Brandt Pike
Huber Heights, OH 45424
930 East Dorothy Lane
Kettering, OH 45419
5250b  N Dixie Dr
Dayton, OH 45414

 

Wendy’s and Takis Turn Up the Heat with Fuego Meal

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Meet this summer’s fiercest duo: Wendy’s® iconic Spicy Chicken Sandwich and fan-favorite snack brand Takis® join forces to create the limited-time Takis Fuego™ Meal, which features the Takis® Fuego™ Chicken Sandwich and Takis-inspired Fuego™ Fries. Wendy’s fans can get their hands on the collaboration in U.S. restaurants on Friday, June 20th 

Wendy’s and Takis Turn Up the Heat with a Flavor-Packed Collaboration
Dropping nationwide at all Wendy’s locations:
Fuego Chicken Sandwich: Features a spicy chicken fillet with chili lime & cheddar cheese sauce, followed by crushed Takis Fuego chips and creamy corn spread on a toasted bun.
-Takis Inspired Fuego Fries: Features Hot Natural Cut Fries and chili lime seasoning. Comes in a tear-away bag.

Available as the Takis Fuego™ Meal or a la carte, heat seekers can add even more Takis punch to their meal with a bag of Takis Fuego® chips that are only available in the Takis Fuego™ Meal while supplies last*.

“At Wendy’s, we know how to keep things spicy, and we love serving up fresh, famous collaborations that tap into consumers passion points, which made this partnership with Takis a no brainer,” said Lindsay Radkoski, U.S. Chief Marketing Officer for The Wendy’s Company. “By joining forces with such an iconic and beloved snacking brand, we’re turning up the heat and flavor in a way only Wendy’s can!”

Additionally, from June 20 to July 20, fans can turn up the temperature with Wendy’s in-app game, Spice Invasion, available to U.S. app users. In the retro arcade-style game, players navigate treacherous terrain, blasting Wendy’s menu items with Takis chips to earn points, win prizes and be entered to win the grand prize of $10,000**.

“We are beyond excited to join forces with Wendy’s, a powerhouse brand that shares our passion for Intensity and Flavor.” said Sandra Kirkpatrick, U.S. Sr. Director of Marketing at Barcel USA. “Takis fans are known for turning up the flavor—and now, we’re taking it to the next level with Wendy’s. We’ve seen how our fans love adding Takis chips to everything, and together, we’re delivering a spicy, unforgettable experience that’s made for heat seekers. Get ready to taste the thrill!”

Flavor fiends can find their closest Wendy’s restaurant using the Wendy’s Restaurant Locator in the U.S. This collaboration is one heat wave fans won’t want to miss!

Chipotle Turns Up The Heat with Adobo Ranch Dip

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Chipotle Mexican Grill is turning up the heat this summer with the debut of its new Adobo Ranch, a smoky, spicy twist on America’s beloved dipping sauce. Made fresh in Chipotle restaurants, Adobo Ranch features adobo pepper, sour cream and a unique blend of herbs and spices, bringing a craveable kick to the brand’s signature burritos, bowls, salads, tacos and quesadillas. Adobo Ranch will be available at Chipotle locations across the U.S. and Canada starting Tuesday, June 17 and Chipotle Rewards members can try it for free on launch day.

“Ranch has become a cultural phenomenon, especially among Gen Z, who are finding creative ways to enjoy it beyond the traditional salad,” said Chris Brandt, President and Chief Brand Officer. “Our new Adobo Ranch taps into this passion, giving fans a craveworthy way to customize their Chipotle order with a completely new flavor.”

Nevielle Panthaky, Vice President of Culinary at Chipotle, recommends dipping a Hand-Crafted Quesadilla in Adobo Ranch or dipping salt and lime seasoned tortilla chips in Adobo Ranch before scooping into a burrito bowl for the perfect bite.  Adobo Ranch, the brand’s unique take on ranch, features only real ingredients and no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives.

Free Adobo Ranch For Chipotle Rewards Members
Chipotle Rewards members can try Adobo Ranch for free on Tuesday, June 17. Guests have one week to enroll in Chipotle Rewards by 11 p.m. local time on Monday, June 16 to receive a free Adobo Ranch offer in their account on Tuesday, June 17.¹

New Chipotle Rewards members will also receive a free guac offer instantly upon enrollment.3 The best way to Chipotle is in the app. Track points, redeem rewards and score free Chipotle. Download in the App Store or on Google Play.

 

Sunset at the Market

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Sunset at the Market series returns the third Thursday of each month, from 5 to 8 p.m. This Market event provides guests with special evening shopping hours, dinner opportunities, entertainment, demos, tastings and community engagement. DORA beverages are welcome.

Reading: Vignettes of The Belonging Project

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join us for a public reading of the second draft of Vignettes of The Belonging Project at The Loft Theatre on Tuesday, June 17th!
The Kettering Foundation will host a reception with light refreshments at 6pm. The reading will begin at 7pm and a discussion will follow the presentation.
It’s free to attend. Please RSVP to [email protected].

Juneteenth Celebration & Concert ft. Goapele

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This event begins at 5:00PM with line dancing followed by Home of Urban Creative Arts Community curated ceremonies, commemoration, and concert. Experience poetry, African dance, musicians, drumming, performances, commemoration, food trucks, live choir, creative sculptures, and Goapele.

5PM – Line dancing
6PM – Community Celebration
7PM – Goapele takes the stage

Free Tai Chi & Qigong at the River

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Offered by Immortal Tree Qigong. Each hour-long Tai Chi & Qigong session will start with breathing exercises, warm up, and gentle stretching. You will then be guided through flowing movements mixed with short standing meditations. We will end with a slightly longer guided standing (or sitting) meditation. This should leave a few minutes to answer questions or discuss any insights. Qigong doesn’t require any special skills (other than breathing) or equipment (other than your body)