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

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Q+ Card Supports Area LGBTQ+ Youth Center

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Q+ Youth Center in Dayton is run by a group of volunteers dedicated to providing a safe and inclusive space for Queer Youth to thrive.

Formed in response to the continued rise of youth suicides, specifically amongst queer and trans individuals, the Q+ Youth Center board seeks to create more than a building. The members of the board and volunteers from the community are working towards impactful and lasting change in Ohio that leads to the success and brilliance of our youth.

The Q+ Youth Center Project understands the importance of providing a safe space for 7th-12th grade students who identify as LGBTQIA+. Their mission is to empower, support, and mentor these young individuals by creating an environment where they can freely express themselves without fear of judgment or discrimination.

“I hope no youth has to feel alone like I did while coming into my own being. If we can make a safe space for their growth, it will only make the future brighter. That’s worth supporting.” Michael Green, Digital Marketing Manager, Dayton Contemporary Dance Company

The center’s goal is to fund youth events, mentor programs, and ultimately a brick and mortar facility with a focus on the young minds in the greater Gem city region.

You can help support them by purchasing their merchant  card good at 16 local restaurant/stores. You’ll enjoy discounts to all of your favorite Q+ supporting businesses!  Q+ Discount Card for 2025-2026!! For a $25 donation, you will get discounts ALL YEAR LONG. All donations are matched by the Kawai Family Foundation.

Businesses include: Meadowlark Wheat Penny Old Scratch Pizza Yellow Cab Tavern Michael’s Salon Barrel House Lily’s Blind Bob’s Salt Block Little Fish Brewing Baker Benji Ghostlight Coffee Maraluna Pink Moon Goods Sueno and Power Plant. Printing for the card was donated by Smales Pretzels.

Want to volunteer? The  Q+ Center relies on the kindness of dedicated volunteers. To become a part of the team, fill out the form and one of their core group of volunteers will be in touch with the next opportunity to make a change for our youth.

Passport to MetroParks- For A Taste of What’s Happening All Summer

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Bring your family to RiverScape MetroPark for Passport to MetroParks tonight! Representatives from the Dayton Celtic Festival, Hispanic Heritage Festival and Dayton African American Cultural Festival will be on site with activities, information about the festivals and more.

Throughout the event, guests can visit more than a dozen booths hosting games and activities that feature the upcoming festivals and a variety of the recreation, education, conservation and volunteer programs Five Rivers MetroParks offers. Activities include:

Meet MetroParks’ rangers and live wildlife ambassadors. Learn more about upcoming programs, events and things to do in each MetroPark and at the 2nd Street Market. Ask MetroParks staff and volunteer experts questions about nature, recreation activities, youth programs and more.

Participants will earn a stamp in their event passport for each activity they complete. Those who earn one stamp in each of five categories will be entered to win prizes including a Huffy bike and scooters, and MetroParks program vouchers.

From 7:30 to 9 p.m., enjoy local funk fusion band Freakquency on the main stage under the RiverScape pavilion.

Grab a bite from Christian Bros Meat Company, El Meson, McNasty’s, Sweet P’s Handcrafted Ice Pops and Yummy Gyro.

 

2025 Class of Dayton Walk of Fame Revealed

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In a city known for taking flight, five more legendary names are landing in history. For nearly 30 years, the Dayton Region Walk of Fame has etched the names of inventors, artists, civic leaders, and cultural icons into the sidewalks of Dayton’s historic Wright-Dunbar District. Now, five new names are joining the legacy.

2025 Inductees:

Rob Lowe – Raised right here in Dayton, Rob Lowe’s journey from local kid to Hollywood icon is a story of talent and perseverance. From The Outsiders to The West Wing, his career spans generations—and his roots in Dayton remind us that the biggest stars shine brightest when they never forget where they came from.

Vic Cassano Sr. – The king of Dayton-style pizza. With a thin crust, square-cut slice, and entrepreneurial spirit, Vic Cassano turned a grocery store side hustle into a regional empire. Cassano’s Pizza King became the taste of a city and the foundation of a family legacy.

The Original Lakeside – Born and raised in Dayton, The Original Lakeside brought a unique funk and soul sound to the nation that still echoes today. With their hit “Fantastic Voyage,” they captured the spirit of an era—and their vibrant energy, infectious grooves, and style continue to inspire fans and musicians alike.

The Levin Family – Rooted in a courageous journey from Eastern Europe to Dayton, the Levins transformed hardship into hope. Sam Levin, founder of the Levin Family Foundation, helped build a lasting legacy—one that continues today through family members like Karen Lorenz-Levin and Ryan Levin. Together, they uplift underserved communities across Montgomery County.

Jenell Ross – Breaking barriers and building legacy, Jenell Ross is the only second-generation African-American woman auto dealer in the country. As President of Bob Ross Auto Group and a passionate breast cancer advocate, she continues to accelerate change in Dayton and across the industry.

More Than a Sidewalk: A Living Landmark

Stretching down West Third Street in the heart of the Wright-Dunbar District, the Dayton Region Walk of Fame isn’t just a list of names—it’s a walking tour through Dayton’s legacy of invention, artistry, resilience, and heart. From the Wright Brothers and Paul Dunbar to local trailblazers and national legends, it’s a place where past meets present, and where every brick tells a story.

Whether you’re a lifelong Daytonian or just discovering the Gem City for the first time, the Walk of Fame is a reminder that greatness isn’t always found in flashing lights—it’s often right beneath your feet. The 2025 honorees will be formally recognized during a ceremony this fall. But why wait? Ttake a stroll. Snap a photo. Learn something new. And walk where they walked.

The Community’s Voice: DATV at the NATO Parliamentary Assembly

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Dayton Public Access Television (DATV), The Community’s Voice, was once again at the forefront of civic engagement during the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, held in Dayton, Ohio, from May 22 to May 26.
From the opening ceremony—featuring Dayton Mayor Jeffery Mims Jr., Representative Mike Turner (lead organizer of the Assembly’s visit), and NATO Parliamentary Assembly Secretary General, Mark Rutte—the event kicked off with a press conference at 3:00 p.m. on May 22. Local, national, and international dignitaries gathered to mark the beginning of this historic summit.

Fox News picked up DATV’s live feed from the Dayton dialogue at the University of Dayton and broadcast it live around the world!!

Throughout the Assembly weekend, DATV played a vital role in documenting the proceedings. Our crews were stationed at all four event venues: the Schuster Center, the Victoria Theatre, CareSource, and the Roger Glass Center at the University of Dayton. Morning and afternoon sessions were recorded at each site, creating a valuable archive of this milestone event for the City of Dayton.
Led by Dale Grow, the team at the Roger Glass Center not only recorded sessions but also livestreamed them via DATV’s Facebook page. These streams were picked up and broadcast by major news outlets including the Atlantic Council, the Associated Press, CNN, CNET, Fox News, and stations across Europe, including in Brussels and Belgium.
DATV—Dayton’s Community Voice—spoke loudly and clearly, not just to our local community, but to the world.
We celebrate and uplift the voices of our community: artists, activists, storytellers, and everyday citizens who make Dayton such an extraordinary place. DATV is more than a TV station—it is a platform for hope, a megaphone for change, and a canvas for creativity.
We invite you to take part in the story, a gift to give, or a voice that deserves to be heard, we’re here to help amplify it. Be part of the voice. Be part of The Community’s Voice.

Dayton at Work And Play: Deepika Singh

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Conversation with Deepika Singh, co-owner (with her husband Jay) of Gulzar’s Indian Cuisine (across the street from the Dayton Dragons at 217 N. Patterson Blvd).

I love eating at Gulzar’s, and stopped in to check out the restaurant’s new space, which is adjacent to their old space. I asked Deepika how she came to be in the restaurant business.
“My husband Jay and I were both born in India and came here as children. When we married we decided to join Gulzar’s, Jay’s family business. The original Gulzar’s was started in Richmond, Indiana by my husband’s father. He named the restaurant Gulzar’s after his own father’s name. Now Jay’s older brother runs the restaurant in Richmond and we run this place in Dayton.”
“We opened downtown three years ago and are really happy with how well it’s gone. Some people who live or work downtown love Indian food and were glad to have us here. Others are new to this type of food but open to trying new things. We have a buffet for lunch every day so people can try all kinds of food and discover what they like the best.”
“When this space next to us opened up we decided to rent it and to give the restaurant a new look. As we designed this new space we asked our customers for ideas. Martin Pleiss, a customer who works at the Dayton Art Institute was a big help. The restaurant now seats 168, more than twice the seating they had before.”
“My husband and his father are the cooks here. You mentioned that you’ve enjoyed eating here, Bill. The dishes you ate were northern Indian food. In this new space we have a new menu. We’ve added some south Indian items you may want to try.”
I asked Deepika what she did before coming to Gulzar’s. “I was a teacher, and I loved it. I was born to be a teacher, and I feel like I still teach. Teaching is part of running a business.”

Dayton’s RUBIGirls ready to entertain the WORLD!

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You may have noticed many businesses and organizations are taking a breather while NATO has its big meeting here in the Gem City. One of Dayton’s most prolific groups, The Rubi Girls, is looking forward to meeting the international folks as they perform Friday Night at MJ’s Cafe on Jefferson. We caught up with the group’s Executive Director, Dana Sintell, to get the scoop!

937: Hello Ms. Sintell. So, did you ever in a million years think you might perform in front of NATO as part of your 40 years in show business?

DS: Ha ha. Hell no. We have done some crazy stuff in our 40 years, but this one seems almost surreal. We have no idea if anyone from NATO will come or not….but they should!!  Of course, the show is really not the RubiGirls‘ typical outing. Cherry Poppins is having her popular ‘Cherry’s Playhouse‘ and asked us to join in the fun. We were excited to be asked. And a Friday Night show is always a great way to wind down the week. Especially this Memorial Day Weekend!!

937: And it is at MJ’s….not sure we have seen the RubiGirls there in some time.

DS: It has been a long time…we don’t do the number of bar shows we once did. I think all of us miss those greatly. This just seems right, too. Dayton has always been a welcoming place for people of all kinds and this show invites the world…literally, to see the fun we have in our city!

937: I understand it is sold out?

DS: Stop right there…..I HATE THOSE WORDS! Listen, come down, we will do our best to find you a seat, a table, or a lap to sit on.

937: How many RubiGirls will we see Friday Night? And can you clue us on on what to expect?

DS: We went round and round and round….and after talking through it all, we thought, let’s do what Rubi does. Don’t try to change it up. We work well doing what we do. As for the who’s who…you get Cherry, who has enough energy to go 2 hours alone! You get Tara Misu who really is a creative force in our organization. You get the cherished India Summer, who just has that welcoming feel and fabulous looks. And then, of course, I’ll be cuh-razy for those who like that sort of thing.

937: What about NATO security, etc….and what time will you kick it off?

DS: MJ’s is just outside NATO village, so can be assured security will be everywhere. The Dayton Police have always, I mean ALWAYS been a good friend to the RubiGirls!! The show starts at 9pm. We will have audience games, complete mayhem and cocktails throughout!

937: And I know, I think we all know, RubiGirls donate their time and dollars. Who will be the recipient this time around?

DS: We are helping the Dayton Pride Committee and the RubiGirls Scholarship Fund. 2 amazing organizations!

937: Thank you Dana.  Congratulations on 40 years, and the fact that this season for you ladies has received RAVE REVIEWS!! Keep it up!

For more info, click below!

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/cherrys-playhouse-presents-the-rubi-girls-followed-by-friday-night-cap-tickets-1339748697419?aff=oddtdtcreator

 

 

Out On 5th is Back For The Summer

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Out on 5th is back for another summer season!

Out on 5th is the street closure of Fifth Street in the Oregon District of downtown Dayton on weekends: Fridays 5 -10 pm/ Saturdays noon – 10 pm / Sundays noon – 10 pm.

Closing down Fifth Street from Patterson Boulevard to Wayne Avenue every Friday night through Sunday evening allows
our business district to open up the street for guests to shop – dine – and relax in the open air.

  • Out on 5th gives restaurants and bars in the district room to expand patio seating into the streets.

  • Fifth Street is filled with public seating to allow guests room to spread out and enjoy the outdoors.

  • Retail shops can use extra sidewalk space in front of their business for sales. Looking to hold a retail pop-up? Apply here.

  • Local entertainment will be in the district every weekend to enhance the atmosphere. Looking to be an entertainer? Apply here.3.jpg

Parking

Thousands of parking spaces on surface lots, parking garages, or metered side streets (free on weekends) surround the Oregon District.

During Out on 5th, please use the detour map at the bottom of this page to navigate around the street closures and into the parking lots.

Our Oregon District businesses kindly ask you to park in these lots, garages or public street spaces, and not in the residential neighborhood.

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DORA in the District

The Oregon District is a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) – which allows patrons to purchase an alcoholic beverage served in a branded cup and enjoy that beverage outdoors, within the boundaries of the DORA. Find more info on the Oregon District’s DORA webpage.

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Public tables vs. private patios

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As part of Out on 5th, some Oregon District businesses have expanded their private patios for their paid guests into the street.

But there are several public tables set up for you to enjoy

Look for this sticker on public tables anyone can sit at:

 

Driving to Out on 5th

With Fifth street closed, the official detour is using Wayne Avenue, Fourth Street and Patterson Boulevard to access parking to visit Out on 5th.

To access the parking lots on the north side of Fifth Street, turn onto Jackson from Wayne Avenue.

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Dayton at Work and Play: Samaneh Faramarzi

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I met Samaneh (Sama) Faramarzi at the Second Street Market as she was selling her art and some of her baked goods. Then I visited one of the most versatile artists I’ve ever met.
When I arrived Sama was painting in her backyard. “I usually paint indoors but today was so beautiful I moved things outside” she told me.
We started with saffron tea and raisin cookies. Then I tried a slice of her cake. “The cakes are similar to those found in Europe” she explained. “They are less sweet than most American cakes and have layers of cream and fresh fruits. The cookies are a traditional Iranian recipe.”
“I’ve always enjoyed cooking, and I started baking my own pastries and cakes because I missed these flavors from my home country. I made cookies and a cake for my son’s 3rd birthday party and people enjoyed them. Now more and more people want me to bake for them. I call that business Sama’s Sweet Kitchen.“
“People especially like my decorated cakes, and I enjoy making them. They are not just desserts. They are edible artwork. When I’m not painting on canvas, I find great fulfillment in making these cakes, and I know they bring happiness to others.”
Then Sama showed me some of her artwork. “I work in many mediums and in many styles. I use acrylic and water colors and colored pencils and alcohol and ink. Sometimes I paint precisely and sometimes I do pour paintings that make an abstract pattern. Sometimes I even do hand building in clay. Unless I’m doing a commission for someone I just make the art that will make me the most happy at that time.”
Sama sent me home with a few slices of cake and some cookies. My wife absolutely loved the cake and when she saw photos of some of the decorated cakes I could see she was thinking about using them for some event. For myself, I liked the cake but may have become addicted to Sama’s raisin cookies. I think I’ll tell my daughters that’s what I want for Father’s Day.

Local Residents Hold “People’s Town Hall” in Dayton, Highlighting Urgent Community Concerns

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With the absence of their elected representative, concerned citizens of Ohio’s 10th Congressional District gathered on Thursday evening for a grassroots “People’s Town Hall” at Sinclair Community College in Dayton. Organized to address pressing local and national issues, the event offered a platform for residents to voice their concerns directly, despite Congressman Mike Turner’s decision not to attend.

Rose Lounsbury emceed the People’s Town Hall. Photo by Libby Ballengee

An empty chair on stage symbolized the Congressman’s absence, underscoring what many attendees described as a lack of accessibility and accountability to constituents.

Speakers at the event covered a wide range of issues currently affecting District 10 residents, including the impact of recent state and federal policy changes on immigration, Social Security, Medicaid, veterans’ benefits, and layoffs of government workers.

“This town hall is about people standing up for each other, especially when our leaders won’t show up to hear us,” said one local attendee. “These are life-or-death issues for many in our community. We deserve to be heard.”

Speakers from The People’s Town Hall. Photo by Libby Ballengee

The town hall drew attendees from across the district, including retirees, veterans, public workers, and families concerned about the direction of policy decisions that directly affect their lives. Several speakers called for more transparent and responsive representation in Congress, and urged community members to stay engaged and active.

While Congressman Turner declined the invitation to attend, organizers say the event marks only the beginning of ongoing efforts to bring constituent voices to the forefront.

The People’s Town Hall was coordinated by a coalition of grassroots advocates committed to elevating civic engagement and local accountability, including Melissa Rodriquez, Leslie Merry, Kim Senft-Paras, Rose Lounsbury, and Laurel Kerr. 

Attendees were encouraged to follow up with action items, including checking their voter registration status, signing the local petition against Ohio House Bill SB1, and contacting their representatives about their concerns.

Wasabi To Open in Springboro

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After much anticipation Wasabi Japanese Cuisine is ready to open it’s doors in Springboro. Owner Leona Li took a few minutes to talk with us while she was waiting on the health inspector to give them their final occupancy permit.  If all goes well, they will open Friday May 16th at 11am. Located in the former China Cottage space, the 130 seat eatery been remodeled into a serene space with lots of greenery and booth seating, though the kitchen lay out  remains the same with some new equipment.

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Leona says she’s worked in restaurants since she was 17 and after 20 years decided it was time to open her own place.  She choose Springboro because she feels it will allow her to create a small town community feel, where she’ll get to know her customers and enjoy a slower pace than big city life.
From expertly crafted sushi and sashimi to sizzling teppanyaki and comforting ramen, the menu is a celebration of traditional Japanese dishes with a modern twist. The menu is vast, offering raw and hibachi options some  fried food and a few signature Chinese dishes as well. Here’s a peek at some of the menu:
Leona explained that all sauces and salad dressing are made in house with fresh ingredients.
Asian Dishes:
While mostly staffed up, they are still currently hiring for servers and hosts.
Wasabi Japanese Cuisine
784 N. Main Street
Springboro, OH 45066
937-907-5010
Mon – Thurs 11am -3pm, 4-9:30pm
Fri 11am -3pm, 4-10:30pm
Sat noon – 10:30pm
Sun noon – 9:30pm

Springboro, OH 45066

937-907-5010

Mon – Thurs 11am -3pm, 4-9:30pm
Fri 11am -3pm, 4-10:30pm
Sat noon – 10:30pm
Sun noon – 9:30pm

Are You Dating in Dayton?

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It’s your favorite Culture Celebrator here again with a question.

How is dating in the Miami Valley in 2025?

As a culture guy, I like discuss all facets of popular culture, including local culture. And a big part of any local culture is its dating scene. I’m genuinely curious about the social landscape of the Dayton area when it comes to meeting new people. If you are familiar with my work, I’ve written about this topic before. Dating habits can reveal other social information that can be very useful for think tank discussions among social scientist types.

So, if any of you are single, how do you date? Where do you go to meet people? What kind of potential mate are you looking for? Are you even looking? What online dating sites do you use? Is dating easy these days in the Dayton-ish area? Or is it difficult?

If you’re a fan of my content, you know the drill. If you’re a newbie, give me your answers either in the comments section of the social media site you read this article on, or, you can send them directly to me at [email protected]. Let’s rock out…to culture.

Win a Harley, Grant a Wish!

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A stunning 2018 Harley-Davidson Street Bob (1746cc Milwaukee-Eight Engine, 15,600 miles) has been donated to Breast Wishes for a special raffle! This bike has had just one owner, and she’s thrilled to support our mission—helping bring joy to those living with breast cancer.

She hopes this raffle gives someone the chance to ride a Harley who might not otherwise be able to afford one.

 Raffle Details: Tickets: Buy online: $50 each or 3 for $125
Only 200 tickets will be sold—incredible odds!
They must sell at least 100 tickets or all purchases will be refunded by 6/21 Sales close: 6/14

Winner drawn live at the 16th Annual Chrome Divas Ride on June 14th Don’t miss your chance to ride away for a cause!

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Chrome Divas Ride for Breast Wishes

Saturday, June 14, 2025

This ride starts and ends at the Union VFW Post 5434. Registration starts at 10am and kickstands up at noon.

Breast Wishes Foundation was started to honor the memory of Kelli James, who lost her battle to breast cancer at the age of 40. We granted our first wish in 2017 and now average about 100 wishes per year. Each wish is $1,500 and we rely on the generosity of our community to make these wishes come true!

Take One Small Step with WYSO and StoryCorps

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a red logo with white text that says "one small step"
Created by StoryCorps, One Small Step is an effort to remind the country of the humanity in all of us, even those with whom we disagree.

The initiative brings strangers with different political beliefs together for a conversation — not to debate politics — but to simply get to know each other as people. WYSO and StoryCorps are inviting the southwest Ohio community to join the nearly 6,000 people in 50 U.S. states who have participated in a One Small Step conversation.

In collaboration with StoryCorps and other community organizations throughout southwest Ohio, we invite you to meet someone new—a fellow resident with different perspectives from you, who you might never talk to otherwise—for a meaningful 50-minute conversation.

WYSO is one of just four stations selected nationally to host One Small Step in 2025.

With participant permission, these conversations will be preserved for future generations at the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress.

We’re teaming up with civic organizations, churches, and other community groups and leaders to spread the word and connect southwest Ohio residents from all backgrounds who are ready to take One Small Step. Do you want to get your group or organization involved in the effort? Contact Ryann Beaschler for more details.

We’ll be matching participants and hosting recorded conversations throughout 2025.

Apply to be matched for One Small StepStoryCorps’ One Small Step and the Radio Station Hubs are made possible by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.

Matching Partners & Preparing:

  • ​For people interested in getting matched for a conversation, the first step is to fill out the One Small Step Questionnaire
  • Your responses will help us find the best conversation partner for you. Remember: People are complex and rarely, if ever, “exact opposites.” We’ll read your answers carefully to pair you with someone with a perspective different from your own. Thoughtful  matching takes time, so thank you in advance for your patience.
  • If we find a match for you, we’ll reach out to hear more about your goals. When we schedule the One Small Step conversation, we share materials to help you prepare.
  • The One Small Step conversation takes place virtually or in person
  • Requirements for virtual participants: reliable internet connection and a computer with a video camera and a microphone.
  • A day or two before the virtual recording appointment, the facilitator will do a short “tech check” with you to make sure the StoryCorps virtual recording platform works on your device. If the recording appointment is in person, the facilitator will contact you to confirm appointment details, and  recording location.

The One Small Step Experience:

  • At your One Small Step appointment, you meet your conversation partner, and a facilitator provides an orientation, ground rules, and suggested questions.
  • When ready, the facilitator starts the recording and helps you begin the conversation by prompting four kick-off questions. After that, participants drive the conversation by choosing more questions and listening with an open mind.
  • The conversation lasts about 50 minutes, and the whole process takes 75-90 minutes (including time for addressing tech issues, the orientation, and a post-conversation debrief and paperwork).

Participant Agency and Privacy:

  • Your comfort level and consent in this process is our first priority.
  • You drive the conversation. You choose what questions to discuss, and you can decide to conclude the conversation at any time. The facilitator’s chief role is to ensure you and your partner both feel comfortable, respected and in control during the discussion. They may suggest follow-up questions, but all questions are optional.
  • After the recording ends: you decide whether you want to share it with our station, StoryCorps and the Library of Congress. There is no obligation to share. You can keep the conversation private if you wish. You can also share the conversation, but keep your name/identity anonymous. 
  • Regardless of your decision, you and your conversation partner receive a digital copy of the recording.
  • The recording can be preserved in the StoryCorps collection at the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C.—only if both participants agree to share it.

How WYSO Works with These Recordings:

  • A few conversations, with participants’ permission, will be edited for brevity and broadcast on the radio.
  • If your conversation is selected for editing/broadcast by the station, we will notify you, and preview the edited clip for you to ensure you’re comfortable with it before it’s broadcast.

Preservation Dayton Walking Tours

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Preservation Dayton will begin hosting weekly tours of downtown Dayton this week. The nonprofit focuses on educating and advocating for local history and architecture.

Tours will be held every Friday at 5:30 p.m., held weekly through October. Tickets are $10, with all proceeds going to Preservation Dayton’s mission.

The tours will provide a leisurely walk through historic Dayton neighborhoods, like the Oregon District, the Wright Dunbar Village and more.

Preservation Dayton also offers  self-guided walking tours of the 10 historically-zoned district areas located in Dayton, Ohio.

These walking tours will highlight a few of the architectural and historical features of each area.

These walking tours are intended to provide a leisurely walk through Dayton’s historic neighborhoods, allowing ample time to pause and appreciate the architecture, the streetscape, and the amenities of the area. We ask that you walk carefully, as streets and sidewalks can be uneven, and it’s important to observe the terrain while you appreciate the historical and architectural features of the area.

Click on the links below or in the navigation on the menu bar to get to each areas tour.

You can support Preservation Dayton by becoming a member for as little as $15/year.  Help  preserve and restore our irreplaceable architectural heritage in  Dayton’s unique National Register neighborhoods. By making a tax-deductible donation, you join in the effort to preserve Dayton’s history.

Originally founded in 1983 as the Dayton Area Coalition of Historic Neighborhoods, innumerable members and leaders have been champions and advocates for the Dayton region’s historic communities and built environment. Volunteer today to support your neighbors and community. You’ll have fun and meeting truly interesting preservationists when you volunteer for one of PDI’s committees. Indicate your volunteer interests on your annual membership form or email [email protected]  

Dayton at Work and Play: Richard Lundin

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Conversation with Richard Lundin at Front Street (1001 East 2nd).
I know you came here from Chicago about 10 years ago. What brought you?
“One of the owners was getting ready to retire and I said I’d take a look at the place and give them my thoughts. I thought it would take me a few months, but 10 years later I’m still here. I became a part owner in 2020.”
“The three buildings here were built in the late 1800’s. There was a paper mill here once, with equipment powered by a canal that ran right by the place. Then it was the home of an envelope company. When they moved in 1965 the current ownership group bought the buildings and started renting space to entrepreneurs of all kinds.”
“There were a few artists who rented space back in 1965 – artists are always looking for inexpensive studio space – but it was mostly businesses. Over time the number of artists has grown. Now about 150 artists rent about 75% of the space. I think they see a benefit to being part of the community of artists here
I’ve always loved photographing here because I love taking pictures of people at work. At Front Street I’ve photographed boat builders, jewelry makers, glass blowers, painters, and many other kinds of workers. “I enjoy that too. I love to see people who are really good at the thing they do, and we have a lot of really talented people here.”

I’ve never seen a landlord get so involved in the success of his tenants. “We do what we can to support the artists here. We run a monthly party where everyone opens their studios and lots of people come. It’s the first Friday of the month and the following Saturday. And lots of people visit at other times, too. Our doors are open from 7am to 7pm and if you walk around the buildings during those hours you’ll always find some studios open and some artists who are happy to talk to you.”
“We’re doing something special here May 2 and May 3. It’s called ARTebration. We’ll have street artists from all over the country painting new murals on the walls at Front Street; plus there’s music and food and all of our art studios will be open.”

BBB-Dayton’s Community Honor Goes To Habitat For Humanity Of Greater Dayton

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The Better Business Bureau is pleased to announce the recipient of BBB’s 15th annual Community Honor Award. This year, Habitat For Humanity Of Greater Dayton will receive the distinguished honor.

The Community Honor Award was established in 2011 to recognize government, nonprofit or education organizations with proven commitment to improving all aspects of life in the Miami Valley. It spotlights the honorees’ efforts to realize not only their own missions, but their roles in making the Miami Valley a thriving community, taking care of its citizens – individuals and organizations. The honorees enhance the Miami Valley marketplace by offering their own tangible and intangible resources, making a positive impact on the evolution of the Miami Valley and the betterment of its people and industries. They demonstrate a passion for and progress towards improving the quality of life. This honor is reserved for organizations, which have shown stamina, steadfast determination and truly innovative ways of giving back to the community.

Habitat For Humanity Of Greater Dayton builds new homes and renovates existing ones to provide the opportunity for low-to-moderate income families to purchase them with zero interest mortgages. It services each mortgage, allowing the organization to work with every homeowner to ensure the mortgage is successfully paid in full, resulting in transformational financial security. It even provides homeowner education classes to all partner families to prepare them for homeownership and provides critical home repair services to income-qualified homeowners who don’t have the financial resources for major repairs or upkeep. In addition, Habitat also runs two retail stores, selling donated household goods, cabinets, appliances, construction materials and hardware to the public. Funds generated in the stores offset operational costs. The organization has also expanded to serve Greene and Clark counties.

Habitat For Humanity Of Greater Dayton has grown from a volunteer mission working from a church basement to what it is today with one simple belief — everyone deserves a decent place to live. In total, the organization has served over 1000 families locally, providing safe, decent, affordable homes.

With the current affordable housing crisis, Habitat operates with five core principles: demonstrate the love of Jesus Christ; focus on shelter; advocate for affordable housing; promote dignity and hope; support sustainable and transformational development. These principles guide everything the organization does. Its success hinges on the 4000 volunteers that come out each year to help build, renovate, and repair homes.

Norman Miozzi, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Dayton executive director, says, “We’re so excited that the BBB selected Habitat For Humanity Of Greater Dayton as the 2025 Community Honor recipient. Since 1983, Habitat For Humanity Of Greater Dayton has served the Miami Valley with integrity; providing, preserving and protecting affordable home ownership. Receiving the Community Honor recognizes not just the hard work and dedication of our employees and board members, it also recognizes the work of thousands of volunteers, corporate partners and homeowners who have been the heart of Habitat For Humanity Of Greater Dayton for 42 years.”

John North, president and CEO of the BBB serving Dayton and the Miami Valley, shares, “The selection committee was impressed with this organization’s laser focus on serving the Miami Valley. They are a true example of how strong communities thrive when committed organizations get involved. Its efforts are unbelievable and it’s our honor to recognize them.”

The public is invited to join us at the Torch Awards For Ethics Dinner on May 13 at Sinclair Community College’s Great Hall to applaud this organization. You can reserve a table for $999 or reserve individual tickets for $99 per person. To make your reservations, call (937) 610-2277.