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Road Trip: Halloween Funk-Rock Extravaganza: Ernie Johnson From Detroit & Subterranean Take Over The State Theater

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Get ready for a freaky Friday night as The State Theater transforms into a heavy funk-rock-jazz dance party on Halloween, featuring Cincinnati’s Ernie Johnson From Detroit and Dayton’s own Subterranean. With costumes encouraged and special performances by The Gorgeous Ghost Demon Dancers from Troupe Roja, this promises to be one of the most electrifying Halloween events in the region.

Ernie Johnson From Detroit has built a reputation for delivering explosive live performances that blend funk, afrobeat, and jazz with ’70s psychedelia and hard rock. The Cincinnati-based big band is known for creating what they call “a hypnotic, danceable sound that is both accessible and boundary pushing at the same time.” Their shows center on intense, spontaneous improvisation combined with sophisticated compositions that live inside the groove. They have the ability to transform any venue into an infectious dance party has made them one of the most sought-after acts in the regional music scene.

Subterranean. Photo by Jimmy Cummings

Complementing the headliners is Subterranean, a fearless jam rock quartet from Dayton that has been lighting up stages for over 15 years. With their sound rooted in rock, funk, jazz, and blues, Subterranean brings what they describe as “improvisation with intent.” The band’s lineup features Chris Coalt on guitar and vocals, Stephen Buttree on keys, saxophone and vocals, Chuckie Love on bass and vocals, and Rob Brockman on drums and vocals. Subterranean’s live performances are characterized by edgy improvisation burning at full throttle, ignited by infectious grooves and powerful, passionate delivery.

Adding to the spectacle, The Gorgeous Ghost Demon Dancers from Troupe Roja will provide visual entertainment throughout the night. With costumes strongly encouraged, attendees are invited to embrace the Halloween spirit while dancing to some of the most innovative music Ohio has to offer.

The State Theater, a historic landmark known for its stunning Art Deco architecture, provides the perfect backdrop for this fusion of musical genres and Halloween festivities. The venue’s intimate setting allows audiences to fully experience the chemistry and creativity that both bands bring to the stage.

For fans of jam bands, funk, and high-energy live music, this Halloween double bill represents a can’t-miss opportunity to experience two of Ohio’s most dynamic acts in one unforgettable night. Whether you’re there for the spontaneous improvisation, the infectious grooves, or just to dance in costume, this show promises to deliver an experience that goes well beyond the typical Halloween party!

HOW TO GO?

Date: Halloween Night, October 31, 2025
Venue: The State Theater, Springfield, OH
Doors: 7:00 PM
Show: 8:00 PM
Tickets: $15 Advance / $20 Door – https://www.springfieldstatetheater.com/event-details-registration/halloween-heavy-funk-rock-jazz-jam-dance-party-w-ernie-johnson-from-detroit-and-subterranean

YWCA’s Women of Influence Awards is Back

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For more than 25 years, the YWCA’s Women of Influence Awards have honored our communities female leaders who use their voices, vision to make a lasting impact in the community. In a release, YWCA stated honorees exemplify the organization’s mission to “eliminate racism, empower women, and promote peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.”

“This event helps highlight YWCA’s goal to help women break the glass ceiling,” said Teresa Sanders, YWCA Dayton Interim CEO. “We can’t wait to honor these remarkable women and tell their stories, while also highlighting the lifesaving services that YWCA Dayton has provided for women and children in our community for more than 150 years. The YWCA is in a time of growth and rebuilding, and we need the support of our community to serve the women and children who walk through our doors every day – seeking shelter, security, and a safe place to land.”

The 2026 honorees are:

  • Debbie Blunden Diggs – CEO and artistic director, Dayton Contemporary Dance Company
  • Myla Cardona Jones – CEO, Brunner Literacy Center
  • Robyn Lightcap – Executive director, Preschool Promise
  • Heather Salazar – President and CEO, Pink Ribbon Good
  • Lisa Wagner – Executive director, Levitt Pavilion Dayton

Betsy B. Whitney

The YWCA Dayton is proud to announce the renaming of its most prestigious honor to The Betsy B. Whitney Lifetime Achievement Award, in recognition of its longest-serving champion. Betsy Whitney’s dedication to the organization is unparalleled, spanning over 65 years and including 50 continuous years on the Board of Directors, culminating in more than 80,000 hours of service. Her leadership proved foundational to the YWCA’s mission: she was a driving force behind the organization becoming the second in the country to open a shelter for battered women, and she personally inspired the creation of the annual Women of Influence Luncheon, the major event where this very award is bestowed. This permanent designation ensures that all future recipients will be measured by the exceptional standard of service, tenacity, and commitment to gender and racial equality that Betsy Whitney set for the entire community.

Vicki Giambrone

Vicki Giambrone– Partner, CBD Advisors, will be the recipient of the 2026 Betsy Whitney Lifetime Achievement Award.

For over 23 years, she served as the vice president for strategic partnerships and business development for Dayton Children’s Hospital. She managed the hospital’s highly successful business development efforts and strategic partnerships. She developed the nationally recognized public affairs and advocacy program; developed the referral physician program and community outreach efforts and as well as leading marketing, strategic planning and Foundation Services. She is a very active community advocate and has served on many boards over the past 30 years. Currently she serves as a member of the Board of Trustees for Pink Ribbon Girls and Greene Inc and as a board member for two private corporations. In addition, Vicki serves the City of Beavercreek as an elected official to the City Council and was selected by Governor John Kasich to serve on his Executive Workforce Task Force Board.  She has earned Fellow status in the American College of Healthcare Executives and is board certified in health care administration; and earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from the University of Dayton.

Rachel Jessup

Rachel Jessup, YWCA Dayton board chair

“We would like to thank YWCA Dayton’s Board of Directors, led by Chair Rachel Jessup, the Y staff led by Teresa Sanders and our incredible community stakeholders for working tirelessly to bring this beloved event back,” Earl and Broughton said in a joint statement. “This celebration means so much – to this community and to us personally. We hope you’ll join us in honoring these extraordinary women, whose leadership and impact truly embody what it means to be Women of Influence in our community.”

The YWCA Dayton will honor the 2026 Women of Influence and Betsy B. Whitney Lifetime Achievement Honorees on March 12, 2026, from 11:30 am-1:00 pm at the Dayton Convention Center.  Tickets can be purchased online here.

BCT brings ‘Let the Right One in’ to life this weekend!

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Beavercreek Community Theatre is celebrating the spooky season with ‘Let the Right One In.’ This weekend is the final chance to see the production which is directed by Chris Harmon. Here is what he shared with us about this coming-of-age story.
937: Why did you choose ‘Let the Right One in’ this Halloween season? 
It’s a different take on both classic vampire lore, and coming-of-age stories. As a director, it presents as a new challenge to stage in a compelling, and accessable way.
937: What does this production promise for the audience? 
The assembled score is comprised of a lot of early 80’s punk, and new wave music. The cast had a chance to offer a lot of input into this aspect of the production so it’s very collaborative in that sense. In terms of atmosphere, the space is really transformed into a stark Scandinavian vibe by the set, and  experimental — and at times avant-garde lighting design. And it’s a vampire story, so of course there’s blood! Lots of it. At one point nearly half a gallon of blood in three seconds! Which is to say nothing of the actors who have invested considerable time into not only their craft but some exceedingly quick and clever set transitions.
937: Is it like the film?
Yes, and no. Yes in that the essence of the main character’s vulnerability and frankness is definitely present. No, in the sense that we don’t have a lake on stage that a body is discovered in.
937: What do you hope the audience walks away feeling? 
I hope they feel that they have experienced something new in the theatre. I want them to feel exhilarated by an unconventional script. I definitely want them to question if this is a love story about Oskar and Eli, or is it not a love story.
937:  Who makes up this strong cast?
The two leads, Karter Hoffman as Oskar, and Sophia Harvey as Eli are fantastic in their roles. They are supported by an incredible ensemble which includes Everett Green, Jamie McQuinn, TJ Montgomery, Sasha Kozlova, Steven Mongelli, Grayson Thompson, Kobe Smith, and Maren Wasser.
Janet Powell has designed some really delightful 80’s Northern Europe costumes. Becky Howard’s design for props is exquisitely detailed. Both Michael Cardoza, and Nick Vanderpool have crafted some amazing very special, and surprising blood effects. Alex Kancler’s sound design is crazy compelling. Angelé Price-Maddah has been a fantastic assistant director. Kayla Graham is fight and intimacy coordinator – her work is incredibly essential to the piece.  Andrew Darr’s lighting design is mysterious and vibrant.  And my set design…well, it’s okay.
Tickets and Times: This Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., Sunday at 3 p.m. Tickets at bctheatre.org 
Anything You’d like to add? Yes. Lady Cardoza is a fabulous producer.

937: I’m sure our readers are as intrigued as I am. Make sure you catch the show at BCT this weekend! Thanks Chris!

Become A Destination Dayton Tourism Ambassador

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Ever wanted to be a true Dayton insider and ambassador? Now’s your chance. This FREE program is your passport to becoming a proud Tourism Ambassador for Dayton and Montgomery County.

💡 Learn how tourism powers our community
📍 Discover hidden gems & major attractions
🤝 Gain skills to welcome visitors with confidence
🏅 Earn a certificate, ambassador pin & Wilbear keychain!

By completing this tourism academy, you’ll earn a certificate and receive the official Destination Dayton Tourism Ambassador pin and a Wilbear keychain, and you will gain valuable insights into Destination Dayton, the destination marketing organization or DMO for Dayton and Montgomery County.It’s all done online and takes about two hours.  Sign up here.

You’ll learn how Destination Dayton promotes Dayton and Montgomery County, driving economic development, job creation, and cultural exchange, all while promoting community amenities. This knowledge will empower you to contribute positively to the well-being and growth of our community.

You’ll discover the positive impacts of tourism and understand how visitors contribute to the well-being and growth of our community. You’ll gain in-depth knowledge about Dayton and Montgomery County attractions including, hidden gems, enabling you to address visitor inquiries confidently.

You’ll also develop skills to actively engage with and assist visitors, ensuring they have an unforgettable experience.

Your participation will foster community pride and help create a positive image of Dayton and Montgomery County for all who visit.

Destination Dayton’s objectives include:

  • Attract visitors by developing and implementing strategic marketing campaigns to draw domestic and international tourists.
  • Diligently secure convention and meeting business for Dayton and Montgomery County hotels and venues.
  • Enhance the visitor experience to ensure a high-quality, enjoyable experience.
  • Grow our local economy by increasing convention and meeting business and tourism-related revenue.
  • Promote cultural heritage to strengthen Dayton and Montgomery County as diverse and enriching destinations.
  • Foster community engagement by engaging local residents in tourism initiatives to build community pride and participation.

While we proudly work with organizations throughout Montgomery County including the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce and the Dayton Convention Center, Destination Dayton is an independent organization governed by its own Board of Trustees. The Destination Dayton Board is made up of community and business leaders from throughout Montgomery County, who work tirelessly to support and advance the organization’s mission of promoting Destination Dayton.

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As members of this vibrant community, we have the unique opportunity to leave a lasting impression on every visitor who comes our way. Whether they’re here for business, pleasure, or just passing through, it is our collective responsibility to ensure they experience the best of Dayton and Montgomery County. Our local hospitality isn’t just about being friendly; it’s about making everyone feel at home.

We are ambassadors of our community’s legacy—from the Wright brothers who taught the world to fly to the countless artists and innovators who continue to shape our cultural landscape. Every interaction is a chance to demonstrate the values we cherish: community, kindness, and an unwavering spirit of welcome.

Let us engage actively with our visitors. Offer help, share your favorite local spots, and maybe tell a story or two about what makes Dayton and Montgomery County special to you. These personal touches make all the difference.

Let’s make sure that when visitors leave, they carry with them not just memories, but a lasting impression of the warmth and spirit of Dayton and Montgomery County. An impression so compelling, it beckons them to return.

Final Weekend for Gratifying ‘Dial M’ at Theatre Guild!

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Dayton has an amazing theatre scene with some excellent actors. I was lucky enough to catch up with one of the best, Matt Meier! He is part of the dynamic cast of ‘Dial M for Murder!’ at the Theatre Guild!

937: Hi Matt! So, so good to see you! Tell me…Why was ‘Dial M of Murder’ chosen for the Theatre Guild this year?

MM: Each year, a committee reads dozens of scripts and assembles the complete season, balancing all sorts of factors. The Guild is known for doing shows that are often new to Dayton audiences, and while many people might remember the Hitchcock film, the region hasn’t seen a stage production of it for a long time. It’s a riviting script, written by Frederick Knott in the 1950s, and still holds up nearly 75 years later! Who doesn’t love a good crime thriller?

937: Listen, I am addicted to ‘Investigation Discovery Channel’, soooooo…..Anyway, what can the audience expect from this production?

MM: Director David Shough brings his rich artistic vision to every production he leads. ‘Dial M’ features a beautiful art deco-inspired set by Red Newman, fabulous midcentury costumes by N. Lynn Brown, dramatic lighting, and a jazzy underscore that masterfully builds suspense. 

937: Sounds like theatrical perfection! What is a brief plot line you can share with us about the story?

MM: A cunning husband. A flawless plan. One fatal call. In this razor-sharp, midcentury mind game of deadly charm, calculated lies, and impetuous greed, the plot to commit the perfect murder begins to unravel. What follows is a taut and twisted Hitchcockian thriller—where life and death hang on the line.

937: Hitchcock truly was/is a master. Love how these stories endure, on and off stage & screen! What are you hoping people walk away feeling with this show?

MM: This show is just fun! You’ll find yourself rooting for the bad guy and also hoping he gets caught in his web of lies. It will keep you guessing til the very end!

937: And I know the Guild has stellar casts….

MM: Oh yes….in this production we have Cora Ceipek as Margot Wendice, Jared Mola as Max Halliday, Matt Meier as Tony Wendice, Danny Lipps as Captain Lesgate, Jim Walker as Inspector Hubbard and Frank Maranje as Thompson.

937: A fantastic group indeed!! I know this is the last weekend. If we want to catch the show, can you give us dates and times?

MM: Yes, sadly this is the final weekend — Friday, Oct 24 at 8pm; Saturday, Oct 25 at 5pm; Sunday, Oct 26 at 3pm.

937: I have such respect for the Theatre Guild thanks for sharing this with us Matt. Any parting words?

MM: Dayton is fortunate to have such a strong theatre scene, and we invite you to be part of it! Tickets are available online at DaytonTheatreGuild.org. 

937: THANKS MATT!!!!

MM: Thank YOU, Josh!!

Dayton at Work and Play: Covered Wagon Farm Market

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My wife and I decided to combine a drive through the countryside with shopping for mums and other fall decorations. We ended up visiting Covered Wagon Farm Market for the first time.
There were plenty of flowers at the market, as you can see from the photos, plus the widest assortment of pumpkins and gourds I’ve ever seen, but that was just the beginning. The main business at this market is food.
The Covered Wagon Farm Market was started in 2009 by a farm family who had been selling wholesale produce and going to farmers’ markets. They decided to open a family-run business next to their farm. The market was a success and has expanded several times.
They have fresh produce, a large selection of private label canned goods and frozen fruits and vegetables, a sandwich shoppe with a dining area, and a large full service deli. They also make fudge and ice cream in the store.
For me, the main attraction is their bakery. Before visiting, I’d heard Covered Wagon described as an Amish bakery, but I learned that the family who owns the market, and many of their employees, are German Baptists. Apparently, the cooking and baking styles of German Baptists are quite like that of the Amish.
Throughout the store people are handing out samples of food. When my wife and I tried a sample of one of their specialties – the Cinnamon sugar pretzel sticks – we looked at each other and Laurie said, “How much should we buy?” What we bought didn’t last the day. We’ll get more the next time we’re in the neighborhood.

Covered Wagon Farm Market
607 N Main St
Englewood, OH  45322

937-832-0807

Businesses Offer freebies for Federal Workers During Shutdown

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Local businesses said they are starting to see the effects of the furloughs to base employees now more than ever and are doing their best to help those in need. Here’s a few of the places that are stepping up with help:

Neighborhood Nest Owner Amber Tipton  “realizes allergy families have it worse that the average family. During the government shut down we realize it will only get tougher the longer it goes on.

If you need some relief I want to help. WEEKLY, you can get Friday dinner, Saturday brunch and a $40 credit to use on product. This offer is open to Celiac & Allergy Families only. (Check out the day old freezer that’s 25% off to stretch that even further!). Amber says she’s been floored by the number of her regulars pitching in to support the furloughed workers, donating to support their program and even donating Kroger gift cards to be handed out.
Fairborn’s Blue Sky Coffee owners Elisa and Matthew Stevenson is welcoming all furloughed employees to stop by for a free cup of drip coffee to those affected. Located just across from Wright State University, they didn’t realize how many of their customers worked at the base, until they saw a 30% drop as the furloughs started.  They said they are seeing between 10 – 30 customers stop in daily for free coffee.

The Dayton Foodbank delivered 60 emergency food boxes to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base last week to support furloughed employees affected by the government shutdown. “Time will really tell, especially this week, what the response will be as we get closer to the potential for folks missing a paycheck,” said Lee Truesdale of Dayton Foodbank Inc.

Truesdale mentioned that it is too early to determine if there has been a significant increase in federal workers seeking help from the Foodbank due to the shutdown.

If you know of other deals, please share them in the comments below.

Maria Steals Your Heart in ‘Sound of Music’ at Schuster!

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The musical version of the beloved story has a way of exposing different views from the beloved characters. Much more so than the film. Facing the oncoming threat of fascism, the characters are faced with personal as well as worldly problems. Through it all, from opening to ovation, Cayleigh Capaldi (Maria Rainer) wins the evening with her naive, sweet, and humor-filled portrayal of the precocious lead. Of course, no cast works without the rough and sour Georg Von Trapp, played by Kevin Earley. His loving transformation is quite believable and endearing.
The kids are all strong and allow each other to have their moment. Haddie Mac as Brigiita is a standout with her many words of wisdom. There are no ‘weak players in this dynamite cast. Kate Loprest may be my favorite Baroness Elsa Schroeder, ever. (Drink in hand!)  And speaking of favorite versions, watch out for the performance by Christiane Noll.  Her, at times, fun-loving, and stalwart at others, portrayal of Mother Abbess is just so satisfying. Climb Every Mountain, at intermission, was a goose bumper!
Yes, the show packs what you remember….goat-herders, cuckoo clocks, and an occasional Nazi symbol. What this production is able to do is keep us buoyant and filled with optimism. It can, indeed, be a lesson for our world today.
Seeing the number of young people in the audience, their eyes filled with joy as they watched the kids break into song and dance. Seeing the number of adults, moved to tears by the love story that progresses so seamlessly through the plot. Seeing ‘The Sound of Music’ alive and well on stage. It took us away from a world of hurt into a world of hope!
For dates and times go to http://daytonlive.org

Dayton at Work & Play: Culp’s Cafe

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Several people had suggested we try the new menu at Culp’s Café, which is located at the entrance to Carillon Historical Park. Admission to the restaurant is FREE, so you don’t need to pay to enter the park to use the restaurant. It’s open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 3pm
My wife and I had lunch at the café and tried some of their new items. I had a shrimp and grits bowl, with lots of shrimp, fried green tomatoes, bacon and other good stuff. My wife had the bacon and fig jam sandwich. We each tasted both items and loved them. A woman overheard us talking about how happy we were with our meal and introduced herself. She was Carol Calzada and she told us that she and her husband were now operating Culp’s Café.

Jose and Carol Calzada, at Culp’s Cafe

Carol told me she and her husband came to the U.S. from Mexico when they were young children. They grew up in Chicago. She said her husband was the chef and had a long background in the industry, having cooked in restaurants around the U.S. and Europe. When they moved to Dayton with their four children, he worked at well-known restaurants like Anticoli’s and l’Auberge.

I came back to get a photo of Jose with his wife and learned a bit more about his background. He told me about the time he cooked for Julia Child, the writer and TV personality who brought French cooking to America.
“This happened at the start of my career” he told me. “I was the sous chef in a small French restaurant in Chicago. Julia Child called and reserved a table for eight. We prepared squab for her, even though it was not on our menu. At the conclusion of the meal Julia Child and the others at the table said they loved our food and we gave them a tour of our small kitchen. They must have also loved the wine we carried, because I remember their table of eight ordered ten bottles of wine.”
Even without wine, my wife and I loved Jose’s food at Culp’s Café. You should check it out.
at Historical Carillon Park
1000 Carillon Blvd

An Evening of Jazz, Bossa Nova, and Global Harmony at Joui Wine

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This Wednesday, Dayton music lovers are invited to experience something truly special: an intimate concert featuring the remarkable musical partnership of trombonist and vocalist Natalie Cressman and composer and guitarist Ian Faquini at Joui Wine. Presented by Venus Child Productions, the evening promises an evening of sophisticated jazz, Brazilian grooves, and enchanting vocals that will transport audiences across continents and musical traditions. Local singer and recent Berklee graduate Kammeron Frost opens up this special evening of live music.

Though calling Cressman and Faquini a duo understates the depth of their musical collaboration, their partnership represents something far more expansive. Hailing from San Francisco and Brasilia respectively, the two artists have cultivated a singular creative communion that draws from their shared love of the Brazilian songbook, jazz, Impressionism, and sophisticated pop songcraft.

What sets this duo apart is their fearless eclecticism. Their original compositions weave lyrics in Portuguese, French, and English into a rich tapestry of sounds that borrows from multiple stylistic traditions. Accompanied by the warm tones of acoustic guitar and trombone, their sumptuous two-part vocal harmonies create a richly orchestrated sound that belies the intimate duo format, seeming to emanate from a much larger ensemble.

Cressman, a trombonist, vocalist, and songwriter, brings sophisticated melodic sensibility to the ensemble, while Faquini’s composition and guitar work provide both harmonic depth and rhythmic vitality. Together, they’ve created a sound that feels both timeless and contemporary, sophisticated yet deeply soulful.

HOW TO GO?

Join Natalie Cressman and Ian Faquini for an evening of live music this Wednesday, October 15, 2025 at Joui Wine, located at 117 E 3rd St, Dayton, OH. Doors open at 7:00 p.m., with the show running from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Tickets are available for $20 in advance or $25 at the door. This is an event for ages 21 and up.

To learn more about the artists, visit Natalie Cressman’s website

This Must Be the Party Returns to The Brightside for “Stop Making Sense” Celebration

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This Must Be the Party!

Get ready to dance. One of Dayton’s most acclaimed musical events is back, and it’s bringing the legendary energy of The Talking Heads to The Brightside‘s Ballroom this October.

This Must Be the Party returns for an all-star musical celebration that features a complete recreation of the iconic Stop Making Sense album, one of rock music’s most beloved records. If you’ve experienced this event before, you know it’s not just a concert—it’s a full-throttle dance party that captures the experimental spirit and infectious groove of David Byrne’s masterpiece.

The evening kicks off with special guests The Nth Power from New York, a trio that brings together an impressive mix of musical talent and diverse backgrounds. Fronting the band is singer and guitarist Nick Cassarino, whose previous work with the Jennifer Hartswick Band and tours with hip-hop legend Big Daddy Kane showcase his versatility across genres.

On bass is Nate Edgar, whose credits include the bands Groovechild and John Brown’s Body, providing the low-end foundation for the group’s groovy sound. Completing the trio is drummer Nikki Glaspie, a powerhouse musician who spent five years as Beyoncé’s world-touring drummer before joining Ivan Neville’s New Orleans funk outfit, Dumpstaphunk.

Together, The Nth Power demonstrates that great music knows no boundaries—bringing together artists from jazz, funk, hip-hop, and rock traditions into one unified sound.

HOW TO GO?

Date: October 10, 2025
Venue: The Brightside (905 E 3rd St., Dayton, OH)
Doors: 7:00 PM | Show Starts: 8:00 PM

Tickets:

  • $25 presale general admission
  • $30 day of show general admission
  • $160 reserved tables with 4 tickets (limited quantity)

Get tickets here: https://tickets.venuepilot.com/e/this-must-be-the-party-with-special-guests-the-nth-power-2025-10-10-the-brightside-music-event-venue–9dcc83

All ages are welcome, though patrons under 18 will need parental supervision. Those 21 and over should bring valid ID if they wish to purchase beverages.

A heads-up for attendees: this is a standing show with limited seating available for those who need it. This is a dance party, so comfortable shoes are highly recommended—you’ll want to be able to move freely as the music takes you on a journey through one of the greatest albums ever made!

 

A New Family Friendly Halloween Adventure in Town

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A brand new Halloween inspired experience will be opening up next week in Dayton that runs for just 19 days- Oct 15 – Nov 2nd.  Oct 16th & 17th are already sold out! Created by a team that has years of experience in theater set design, the details created will impress you and make for a memorable outing.
When you step into Blackwood Manor this Halloween season —you’ll experience  a one-of-a-kind, NOT-scary family friendly event,  filled with food, fun, and unforgettable memories. One ticket takes you from dinner in the Great Hall to 7 more themed rooms, each filled with playful challenges, prizes, and candy.  The 2 hour experience will include:
While it is still under construction, Zac Pitts has a behind the scenes tour of what you can expect:

Perfect for kids, parents, and even grandparents — this is Halloween re-imagined as a night of laughter, adventure, and surprises !Best for children 4+, but all ages welcome. All parking FREE including Handicapped. Doors open 15 minutes before event start

 For just $34.95- $36.95  your ticket includes:
🍽️ A full dinner served at long manor tables

LUNCH/ DINNER Menu:
• Meat or Meatless Lasagna
• Green Beans
• Garlic Bread
* Children’s meal option – Chicken Nuggets & Mac-n-Cheese
•Ice Cream Bars

Also included is your choice of tea, lemonade or water.
If you have an allergy, please email them so they can discuss options for you


🕹️ 14 interactive games & challenges
🎁 Candy & prizes to collect along the way
🌌 7 magical themed rooms to explore — spooky atmosphere, never scary
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Perfect for kids, parents, and even grandparents — this is Halloween re-imagined as a night of laughter, adventure, and surprises!
⚡️ But don’t wait — tickets are limited and selling quickly. Once they’re gone, the Manor doors will close!
👉 Reserve your tickets now before it’s too late!

Blackwood Manor
5679 Webster Street
Dayton, OH 45414

On the map it’s a warehouse,
but inside it’s Blackwood Manor.

Volunteers Needed to Support Local Job Seekers

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Clothes That Work is a nonprofit organization providing workforce education and professional or workwear attire to job seekers in the Miami Valley. Clothes That Work relies on the generosity of the community to help outfit clients for their upcoming interviews and work placements.

Volunteers are essential to Clothes That Work, with four different ways to engage:

  • Client coaches—Help clients develop foundational interview skills, during a business wear fitting appointment.
  • Workshop facilitators—Engage groups in insightful discussions about job searching and professional development.
  • Inventory management—Work hands-on with clothing donations received by the community.
  • Boutique associates—Staff and maintain Clothes That Work’s upscale resale shop, The Boutique @ Clothes That Work.

Clothes That Work offers flexible hours; and volunteers are trained in their positions, to ensure that clients receive top quality services.

To sign up for a volunteering opportunity, visit https://www.clothesthatwork.org/volunteer-form/ 

For more on volunteering opportunities, visit www.ClothesThatWork.org/get-involved

Clothes That Work

2824 Wilmington Pike

Kettering, OH 45419

937.222.3778

National Taco Day Deals

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The earliest version of an official Taco Day originated in San Antonio in the 1960s, according to L.A. Taco, when a city councilman named Roberto L. Gomez promoted a Taco Day as part of Mexican heritage celebrations — a community effort to recognize the cultural impact of tacos.

Over time, other cities adopted it, and eventually, big fast-food chains piggybacked on the idea and began using October 4 as the unofficial date. However, in 2024, Taco Bell partnered with National Day Calendar to officially move National Taco Day to the first Tuesday in October, aligning it with Taco Tuesday.

  • Azul Agave: $1.50 hard or soft shell tacos

  •  Bubbakoo’s Burritos:Through Oct. 7 loyalty members can enjoy a buy one, get one free deal on the chain’s Dos Tacos entrée.

  • Chiapas Mexican Grill Moraine: Hard & Soft Tacos – just $1.99 each, 16 oz Regular Margaritas – $4.99 all day!
  • Chuy’s: The Tex-Mex chain with more than 100 locations across the U.S. offers National Taco Day deals that include a $1 taco with any entrée purchase and $1 tequila or rum floaters added to your margarita order. And if you dress like a taco – or wear any “taco-inspired costume” – you get a free entrée.

Dayton at Work and Play: Mad River Pulp & Paper

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Mad River Pulp & Paper at Carillon Historical Park
I’ve haven’t been to Carillon for a year or two. In the past I visited regularly and took lots of photos. I thought it would be fun to get to know the place again and take some new photos. Thought I’d start with their new paper mill exhibit.
I knew that this region was one of the country’s most important paper manufacturing areas. I assumed that was because of the availability of inexpensive wood, but that’s not it. Early mills made paper out of rags.
The rags were put into a tub of water and then beat to a pulp. A screen was put into the vat to collect some of the pulp. Then it was dried and eventually pressed to make paper sheets. The sheets were hung from the ceiling until they were dry enough to sell.
I think the reason this area became a leading paper manufacturer was because of the area’s water. There was waterpower to beat rags to a pulp and water gave access to markets via the rivers and canals. Later, as the importance of waterpower and water transportation declined, the area still had an important asset – a workforce that understood paper making.
The new Paper Mill is next to the Marie Aull Tribute Garden, which reminded me that I have personally benefited from Dayton’s early papermaking history. Marie’s husband owned a very successful business, Aull Brothers Paper and Box Company. The profits from that business allowed them to own property north of Dayton. Marie Aull was an avid environmentalist and her expertise, and her gifts of land and money, gave us two of my favorite Dayton places, Aullwood Garden MetroPark and Aullwood Audubon Center and Farm.

With ‘Threads,’ TheatreLab expands board and season.

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TheatreLab Dayton announced their season a week or so ago. Titled ‘Threads,’  TheatreLab is hoping to expand on its connection to the community and its drive to be unique in its 2025-26 season.

‘We called the season Threads because for us, theater is really about connection, and that feels especially important right now. Every show this season has that sense of space and nostalgia built into it – these stories that remind us where we’ve been, who we are, and how we connect to each other. It just felt like the right moment to lean into that, and to give audiences a chance to share something meaningful together in the room.’ said Executive Director, Philip Drennen. New works, old favorites and a few surprises highlight the 2025 -2026 season:
I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change, Nov 6-9
The Mystery of Edwin Drood, Jan 22-25
Nunsense, March 26-29
Amour, May 18-24
No Map, Just Music kicks off the season and Drennen explained the unique choice. ‘We picked No Map, Just Music: A Tribute to Linda Ronstadt because her catalog honestly has something for everyone: rock, folk, country, soul, and just incredible storytelling. It’s such a wide range of music, and it connects with people in so many different ways. We’ve got an amazing live band made up of local singers and musicians, and of course the powerhouse vocals of Charity Farrell leading the night. And hosting it at The Brightside just felt right – it’s really become a Dayton staple for live music, so it’s the perfect venue for a celebration like this.’
Among the surprises TLD is excited for is
having a new guest director! ‘We’re so excited to be closing the season with Amour. Part of that is because we get to work with Joe Deer, he’s a legend in the Dayton theater community and it’s such a thrill to have him on board. And honestly, Amour is one of those gems that doesn’t get produced very often, so a lot of people may not know it. But it’s such a beautiful show, and I think audiences are going to be really surprised by how moving and magical it is.’ Drennen said.
TheatreLab is also on a mission to expand their board to improve community input. ‘We realize that now is the time to get more folks involved in our evolution. Last year, we created a new board that really looked at how to make TLD solid, while looking at new ways to use our talented team! We are adding more people to our board as the word has gotten out that TLD is a positive place for creatives!’ said board member, Josh Stucky.
Drennen piped in, ‘We’ve also got some really fun events planned this season, things like trivia nights, karaoke, and of course all of our usual pre-show parties. And beyond the shows themselves, we’re expanding our volunteer base, so there are lots of ways for people to support and get involved with TheatreLab. It’s really about building community, both onstage and off!’
For tickets and information on how you can get involved go to: