Good morning, Dayton.

YWCA Dayton named Barbara Ward as its new president and CEO, effective Monday, Aug.

3. Ward previously served as chief development officer and will take over from retiring CEO Teresa Sanders.

Dayton is celebrating Christmas in July with festive events including a start at Cozy Book Nook today (11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.), Lula Bell’s 30% off sale from July 21 to 25, and Skateworld’s skating celebration from July 24 to 26.

The events feature special sales, book signings, and visits from Santa.

Today, new rest areas along I-75 in Liberty Twp have opened after a complete rebuild that added more than 45 truck parking spaces each + improved accessible facilities for drivers.

Grace Baptist Church in Wayne Township is repairing its building after an electrical fire on May 31 damaged the upstairs; repairs to the children’s wing are complete, plus roof removal will begin Wednesday with full repairs expected by Sept.

30, so services plus Vacation Bible School will be held outdoors.

Inspectors checked ride safety at the Montgomery County Fair on Tuesday, testing that lights and stop functions worked before fairgoers arrived — ride owners also completed daily checklists.

The fair runs through Sunday.

A global electrical manufacturer plans a $155M expansion that will add over 60 jobs in Greater Dayton, a move announced on Tuesday, July 14.

The project is expected to strengthen local business growth and create new opportunities in the region.

Now and Zen DIY Studio is hosting a living wall art workshop for Dayton residents to create an 8-inch-by-10-inch piece using live air plants, preserved moss, and creative embellishments.

Participants can also enjoy a sip and create option as Joui Wine offers wine for purchase during the event.

A recent report shows that the arts unite Dayton residents, boost local businesses, and improve well-being by reducing stress and even slowing aging.

It notes that local nonprofit art groups support $239.4M (according to a 2022 study) and create jobs to strengthen community ties.

All Ohio public schools had adopted a formal AI policy by July 1, and Fairborn City Schools formed an advisory committee & provided specialized training on using AI as a tool for enhanced learning.

New state guidelines for chronic absenteeism will require schools to implement measures by August to boost attendance.

Former Dayton Police Chief James Newby passed away, leaving a legacy in modernizing the department.

He began his career in 1962, served in many roles including chief from 1987 to 1995 (retirement), and introduced key programs like bicycle, mounted, and helicopter patrol units.

Dayton Public Schools will ask voters on the November ballot to approve a seven-mill operating levy that will raise $14.8 million a year for operating expenses and building repairs.

The measure, which may help avert future budget cuts, costs homeowners about $245 per $100,000 of property value.

More than 150,000 Montgomery County property owners will soon receive tentative property values by mail as part of the 2026 reappraisal.

They can schedule a free informal review by Zoom or telephone until the end of August if they believe the value does not reflect today's market.

Health officials have noted 300+ cases of cyclosporiasis in Ohio, including 10 in Montgomery County, prompting advice for residents to scrub fruits and vegetables well and call a doctor if symptoms like diarrhea, loss of appetite, or nausea appear.

Gem City Rollers celebrated 20 seasons by hosting a record home game at the Dayton Convention Center on June 27.

The non-profit team drew a packed crowd and will play on Aug. 29 and Sept. 19, with fall clinics planned to welcome new skaters (demonstrating local energy).

A Place for You Park Open House

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Eastwood MetroPark — Free — Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing summer evening with family while participating in fun, hands-on activities and kayaking.

Tribute to Chicago with Brass Tracks Band

7-9 p.m. — RiverScape MetroPark — Free entry — Experience high-energy horn-driven sounds at this tribute concert featuring the hits of Chicago and more.

Greene County Night Bicycle Rides

7-9:45 p.m. — Xenia Station — Free entry — Evening bicycle rides along scenic trails with a sweet ice cream stop.

Ultimate Garth Brooks Tribute Concert

7-9 p.m. — Stubbs Park — Free entry — Experience Shawn Gerhard’s authentic celebration of Garth Brooks in a lively outdoor setting.

Dayton Live Creative Academy: Rise Of The Demon Hunters K-Pop Camp

1-4 p.m. — PNC Arts Annex — Registration required — Immerse in choreography and vocal training while creating an original ensemble piece in the K-Pop themed camp.

Cedar Rapids Kernels at Dayton Dragons

3:05 – 8:05 PM — Day Air Ballpark — Ticket prices vary — Catch one of the hottest tickets in sports with an exciting baseball game featuring the Dayton Dragons.

Cedar Rapids Kernels vs. Dayton Dragons

3:05 – 8:05 PM — Day Air Ballpark — Ticket prices vary — Catch the excitement as the Dayton Dragons take on the Cedar Rapids Kernels in a thrilling baseball matchup.

Dayton Celtic Festival 2026

All day — RiverScape MetroPark — Free entry — Experience the vibrant culture of Celtic nations with music, dance, and food.

Cedar Rapids Kernels at Dayton Dragons

7:05-8:05 p.m. — Day Air Ballpark — Tickets available — Catch one of the hottest tickets in sports and enjoy a thrilling baseball game!

Fleetwood Mac Tribute Concert by Landslide

7-9 p.m. — Stubbs Park — Free entry — Enjoy the hits of Fleetwood Mac performed live for an unforgettable summer evening.