9-24-2025 9:58pm

ARE YOU SAFE? AROUND ABOUT IN 2025

Beth Callahan Editor

WARREN COUNTY, OH -- As the Lifestyle/ Events writer for WARREN COUNTY POST, I go to a lot of places around Warren County and other counties nearby. I was pleased this past week Sept. 19, 2025 to get this message from the Dayton Performing Arts Association before I attended the opening concert of the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra. This is the exact message:

PARK IN THE ARTS GARAGE

Located on the northwest corner of Second and Ludlow Streets, the Arts Garage is secure and clean, with on-site attendants. There are security cameras throughout the garage which are monitored by the Dayton Live security team 24/7 with attendants on duty.

WCP editor Beth Callahan and I have discussed the safety issues of all the places I go and refer others to visit... the various venues and restaurants. I certainly want to make sure that IN GENERAL, safety procedures are in place or are being attempted to insure a positive experience for you.

There are places I have specifically avoided in current referrals. Due to the high crime reports (via posted police blotters, which are often reposted in CINCINNATI NEWS NATION) there have been no referrals to THE BANKS, MUSIC HALL, OVER THE RHINE or other DOWNTOWN CINCINNATI venues.

I have personally witnessed:

the homeless going through cars in the Washington Park Garage where there are often no attendants available,
accosted on the street by a person “on a substance” and
the most hideous, a fugitive killed on the steps on Music Hall in June of 2024 while we were at a performance. With blood dripping down the stairs, while the outdoor parking lot was closed to car owners overnight and framed in yellow tape as a “crime scene,” this image will stay etched in my soul.

Recently two popular Over the Rhine restaurants have closed due to the high crime in this neighborhood .

In reference to this story, this past week I contacted the Marketing Director and Digital Marketing Director of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra about covering their events/concerts at Music Hall. I expressed my concern over the Washington Park Garage and fugitive killing. While I have not heard back at the time of this posting, I DO know they have of internal building security, and Cincinnati Police crossing guards (at every performance).

I DO hope they are considering more parking security, which has to be negotiated with the City of Cincinnati.

As I am writing this, I am hopeful that there are changes in the works in Cincinnati to improve the situation in the entertainment areas for I look forward to going to more events SAFELY in Cincinnati and sending positive reviews out to get you to more wonderful places.

As for now, the Dayton Performing Arts Association events are not only close to Warren County but their priority for my safety, as well as other attendees, is being addressed now. I definitely plan on attending more there.