Thursday, May 21st, 2026
Good morning, Dayton. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 21st of May.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Yesterday, the YMCA of Greater Dayton — South Branch in Kettering celebrated Katie Burhman's 100th birthday as friends and staff crowned her with a birthday tiara, marking her long dedication to staying active. The event honored her regular visits and workout routine. WHIO-TV
- ➤ Bellbrook Sugarcreek Community Support Center in Bellbrook is collecting gas gift cards to help families cope with rising gas prices ahead of Memorial Day weekend, as AAA notes prices near $5 per gallon (up 13 cents overnight). The center hopes to ease travel costs for residents. Dayton 24/7 Now
ACCIDENTS NEWS
- ➤ High water was reported on the I-75 northbound ramp in Dayton on May 20; drivers are urged to use caution as officials work to determine any traffic impacts. WHIO-TV
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Online orders are open now for the 50th annual Troy Strawberry Festival happening June 6-7 (organized by Troy Music Boosters). Drive-thru and delivery options are available for Troy addresses only, so residents can secure their strawberry donuts in time. Dayton Daily News
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Memorial Day will kick off summer cookouts despite rising prices on staples — tomatoes climbed 50% and ground beef rose 15% from last year, and Kroger will offer sales, digital coupons and a 10% military discount to help shoppers save; one customer already saved $17. WHIO-TV
- ➤ Ohio drivers plan to travel for Memorial Day weekend as gas prices have risen $1.74 to $4.74 per gallon compared to last year; AAA expects 1.7 million residents on the road and advises leaving late morning or after the evening commute to avoid heavy traffic. WHIO-TV
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ The YMCA is offering free summer memberships for rising 7th and 8th graders at 14 centers, and the City of Dayton’s Department of Recreation has planned leadership camps for teens ages 13 to 17; both programs aim to keep youth engaged and active during summer break (providing community support). Dayton 24/7 Now
- ➤ The Kettering Board of Education approved up to $222 million in short-term debt notes today to quickly advance Segment 1 of its Future Ready Facilities plan after voters approved a bond issue on May 5. The plan includes building a new middle school and repurposing Van Buren for athletic fields. Dayton Daily News
- ➤ Dayton Public Schools is considering laying off support staff at The International School as enrollment falls and the reconfiguration will shift the school to kindergarten through eighth grade; board discussions have repeatedly revisited the issue amid mounting financial pressures. Dayton Daily News
- ➤ Montgomery County and Harrison Township launched a paid firefighter apprenticeship program on May 18 for 18- to 24-year-olds that offers classroom instruction, ride-alongs, and on-the-job training to gain Firefighter I/II and EMT certifications. The 24-month program comes as fire and EMS agencies address rising call volumes amid workforce changes. WYSO
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Crews at Germantown Dam are monitoring the century-old flood protection system that stores floodwaters and releases them safely along the Great Miami River as heavy rain continues into the weekend. The Miami Conservancy District will inspect dams and levees for damage to protect local communities. Dayton 24/7 Now
- ➤ Sisters of the Precious Blood in Trotwood are advancing renewable energy and waste composting programs; they installed a solar field in 2018 that supplies 60% power (with geothermal upgrades) and now work with local Catholic schools to cut food waste. WYSO
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ The Vandalia police introduced support dog Bo yesterday to help reduce stress and boost mental health for officers and community members. The new K-9 is expected to offer comfort during tough days. WHIO-TV
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Meet the Artist: Elisha Frontz
4-8 p.m. — Dayton Society of Artists — Free entry — Engage with artist Elisha Frontz and explore her creative process in an open studio setting.
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Heather & The Swing Set Live Performance
8-11 p.m. — Whisperz Speakeasy — Free entry — Enjoy an unforgettable night of live jazz music with a beloved local ensemble.
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Heritage Day with the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra
12-5 p.m. — Carillon Historical Park — Free entry — Celebrate Dayton’s rich history with special activities and performances from the Philharmonic.
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Dayton Dragons vs. Great Lakes Loons
7:05-8:05 p.m. — Day Air Ballpark — Ticket prices vary — Catch the excitement of minor league baseball with the Dayton Dragons in action.
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Dayton Dragons vs. Great Lakes Loons
7:05-8:05 p.m. — Day Air Ballpark — Ticket prices vary — Experience the thrill of minor league baseball with the Dayton Dragons in action!
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Dayton Dragons vs. Great Lakes Loons
7:05-8:05 p.m. — Day Air Ballpark — Ticket prices vary — Catch the Dayton Dragons play baseball in an exciting matchup at home.
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School Days Off Program at the RecPlex
7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. — Washington Township RecPlex — $76-$99 per day — Enjoy engaging activities and childcare for kids grades K-5 on school days off.
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Dayton Dragons vs. Great Lakes Loons
7:05-8:05 p.m. — Day Air Ballpark — Tickets available — Experience the excitement of minor league baseball with the Dayton Dragons in action.
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Clash Spring/Summer Fashion Show
5-11 p.m. — The Brightside Music & Event Venue — Tickets available now — Experience a showcase of bold designs and emerging talent from Dayton's creative community.
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Mariah the Scientist Concert
8:00-9:30 p.m. — Fraze Pavilion — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of soulful tunes by Mariah the Scientist.
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