The rink has something for everyone: beginners’ lessons, open skating, broomball and curling, not to mention hot chocolate and music. Ice skating is a great way to experience the outdoors during the cooler weather and provides a winter tradition for Miami Valley families looking for something fun to do together.
Archives for November 2021
Asylum Reunion Returns Saturday
After 2 long years, Asylum Reunion returns Saturday, November 27, 2021.
If you were there, you still talk about it. We all have stories, we can’t escape sharing those stories when one of us cross another’s
path. Name another decade where you could go to a big room club, be yourself, no cell phones, living in the moment, listening to a melting
pot of music with an eclectic group of people. You can’t. We always do our best to capture the setting and feel of those days with the music,
video, and venue location. This year the Reunion takes place at Bar Granada, Dayton’s Premium Tequila Bar & Live Music Venue. Located at 5
W. Monument Ave, right on the river. (Corner of Main & Monument).
Matt Freeman, Eric Heilman, Doug Collins & friends will host the evening, providing an eclectic mix of Industrial, 80s, and 90s Alternative Dance from artists including Basement Jaxx, Beastie Boys, Beck, Bjork, The Breeders, The Chemical Brothers, The Cure, Daft Punk,
Depeche Mode, Fatboy Slim, Front 242, Garbage, Josh Wink, KMFDM, Lords of Acid, Massive Attack, Meat Beat Manifesto, Ministry, New Order, Nine Inch Nails, Nitzer Ebb, Notorious B.I.G., ODB, PJ Harvey, Prince, Prodigy, Rage Against the Machine, Rammstein, Siouxsie and the Banshees, Sisters of Mercy, Skinny Puppy, Sneaker Pimps, Stabbing Westward, Underworld, Violent Femmes, White Zombie and more.
Preparty at The Barrel House
417 E 3rd St, Dayton, OH 45402
from 7-9PM | 21+ Welcome
Event Details:
80s 90s Industrial Electronic Alternative Dance powered by
Matt Freeman (ASYLUM)
Eric Heilman (ASYLUM, PARALLAX)
Doug Collins (ASYLUM)
& friends
Bar Granada
5 W. Monument Ave, Dayton, OH 45402
9:30 PM DOORS | 21+ WELCOME
$10 COVER
“Arrive Safe” Returns with Free Rides Home in Montgomery County
Montgomery County Prosecuting Attorney Mat Heck, Jr. announced today that with support from the Heidelberg Distributing Company/Budweiser, and Key-Ads, the ArriveSafe program will return for the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. The ArriveSafe program was suspended due to the pandemic in 2020.
A new and exciting enhancement to the program is the announcement that ArriveSafe will now be providing Uber rides. The program will work the same as in past years – those who have been celebrating with alcohol can call 937-449-9999 and give the operator their name, a cellphone number, and their pick-up and drop-off locations. The operator will dispatch an Uber driver to get them home safely. The caller doesn’t even need to have the Uber app on their phone – they will receive text messages with information about their Uber ride.
Prosecutor Heck said, “People are gathering again and celebrating the holidays with their family and friends. Recently it has been reported that there has been a marked increase in traffic crashes in the area for several reasons, including impaired and distracted drivers. There is simply no excuse for driving while impaired this Thanksgiving weekend. Either have a sober designated driver or call ArriveSafe to get you home safely.”
ArriveSafe will be offering free cab rides home for Montgomery County residents from 6:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 24, 2021, through 6:00 a.m. Sunday, November 28, 2021.
Prosecutor Heck added, “Don’t risk spending your Thanksgiving weekend in jail or worse, in the emergency room! Call ArriveSafe for a free Uber ride home.”
2nd Street Market to Reinstitute Friday hours, Adds Vendors & Special Events
The 2nd Street Market, 600 E. Second St. in downtown Dayton, will extended its hours to include Fridays starting Nov. 26. The 2nd Street Market will be open Fridays and Sundays from 11 am to 3 pm and Saturdays from 9 am to 3 pm.
Featuring fresh, local food; pantry staples; and hand-crafted items, the Market offers a one-stop shopping experience where visitors can grab lunch and shop for groceries and gifts.
“With the potential challenges many stores face this holiday season in terms of supply chain issues and longer shipping times, we’re lucky to offer many items that are locally grown, sourced and crafted,” said 2nd Street Market Manager Lynda Suda. “You’ll find one-of-a-kind gift items and fresh, locally grown food. Additionally, when you shop at the Market, you’re supporting small business owners, which keeps your dollars in our local economy.
Along with the addition of Friday hours, the Market will offer special shopping days, workshops and events throughout the holiday season.
The Market will be open the day before Thanksgiving, Wednesday, Nov. 24, from 11 am to 3 pm for its annual Stock Up Wednesday event. During Stock Up Wednesday, visitors can grab recipe essentials, prepared foods and more before the holiday. Additionally, the Market will be open on New Year’s Day, Saturday, Jan. 1, 2022, from 11 am to 3 pm.
Special shopping days and additional hours give shoppers the chance to pick up holiday meal essentials — most of them locally produced — as well as flowers, wreaths and prepared foods. Offerings include:
- Fresh, local fare: Locally grown produce, artisan bread, prepared desserts, and local meat and dairy
- Specialty food items: Jams, salsas, teas, jellies, candy and chocolate
- Holiday décor: Flowers, ornaments and handmade holiday items
- Artisan gifts: Jewelry, candles, art glass, body care and more
Those looking for gifts can also purchase Market Money, allowing the recipient to shop at any Market vendor.
Special events, workshops and more
Those looking for a festive family outing, DIY gifts and more can visit the Market during one of many special occasions this season. The Market’s vendors also will make an appearance at the nearby MetroParks Ice Rink at RiverScape MetroPark, 237 E. Monument Ave., most Saturdays in December.
- Artisan Night: Visit the Market on Thursday, Dec. 16, from 5:30 to 8:30 pm for an evening of live music and holiday shopping.
- Vendor Workshops: From creating glass ornaments to perfecting cookie decorations, the Market’s vendors will offer workshops during which participants get hands on and take away DYI creations. Learn more.
- Holiday Mini Market at RiverScape MetroPark: Start your day by at the MetroParks Ice Rink then shop from some of the Market’s vendors in the Kettering Health warming tent. The rink also will offer concessions from the Market’s vendors at the RiverScape Café. Treats will be available on select Saturdays and Sundays while supplies last. Learn more.
Equitable Eats
Homefull, a local nonprofit dedicated to ending homelessness, will be at the Market Fridays through Sundays providing SNAP tokens to those who utilize EBT/SNAP benefits. More than 20 vendors accept SNAP tokens. Additionally, those who qualify for EBT/SNAP can use Produce Perks, a matching program that reimburses up to $20 for those who use their benefits on fresh produce.
The 2nd Street Market is home to more than 50 small business vendors and will continue to add more throughout the season, including Abbi’s Baked Goods, Tinka’s Treats, Frost Me, Beautiful, Mrs. Ernestine’s Pound Cakes and the Scrumptious Dessert.
Homestyle Thai Bistro and I Heart Ice Cream just recently opened inside the Market.
Some vendors from the outdoor Market have moved inside for the winter season, such as C & A Woodworking, Speakeasy Treats, Earth Empress and Eze Foods. Harry’s Ole’d Country Orchard, Mike Creek Farm and Guided by Mushrooms will sell produce indoors through most of the holiday season.
Conservation Mission
By providing the community access to fresh, local food – which is often healthier and less taxing on the environment – the Market supports Five Rivers MetroParks’ mission to protect the region’s natural heritage. Additionally, shopping from local small businesses means food and products are transported shorter distances, further reducing shoppers’ carbon footprint.
In accordance with MetroParks’ COVID-19 policies, face coverings are required inside the 2nd Street Market regardless of vaccination status. Learn more about the 2nd Street Market at www.metroparks.org/localfood.
Warped Wing To Host a Whiskey Rebellion
$9.99 12.7oz bottle
NO BOTTLE LIMIT
$11.99 12.7oz bottle (Taproom only)
4 BOTTLE LIMIT
$11.99 12.7oz bottle (Taproom only)
$19.99 12.7oz bottle (Taproom only)
2 BOTTLE LIMIT
Free Show by The Carillon Brass
The Carillon Brass returns to The Loft Theatre for their annual holiday concert, Bach’s Lunch. Featuring your favorite traditional holiday songs alongside standard repertoire for brass ensembles, this is a lighthearted and fun performance sure to make your spirits bright.
Tickets are free, and seating is general admission. Due to limited seating, we require ticket reservations to attend these performances. There are 2 performances on Friday, December 1oth, 10am or noon. You can reserve your free ticket here or call call 937-228-3630.
The Loft Theatre doors will open 45 minutes before the performance, and we kindly ask that patrons not gather or crowd into the lobby space before the doors open.
This performance is sponsored by the Richard A. and Mary T. Whitney Fund.
ACCESSIBILITY
For detailed accessibility information, including seating, audio, and sign interpretation please visit yhr Accessibility page.
Dayton Holiday Festival Returns with Grande Illumination & Dayton Children’s Parade
Downtown Dayton will celebrate 49 years of the holiday season during the month-long Dayton Holiday Festival, which kicks off with the Grande Illumination and Dayton Children’s Parade Spectacular in Lights from 4 to 9 pm Friday, Nov. 26. Courthouse Square will be the center of the evening full of family entertainment.
Activities planned for the day include the Grande Illumination tree-lighting ceremony, along with live musical entertainment on the main stage, the Street Fair on Third, fun children’s activities in the Holiday Village on Second Street outside Stratacache Tower, the Junior League of Dayton’s Holiday Adventure, horse-drawn wagon rides, photos with live reindeer, and a gingerbread house display in the Old Courthouse. The suggested cost for wagon rides is $1 per person, but all other activities are free.
The tree-lighting ceremony will take place at 7:55 p.m. on Courthouse Square, followed immediately by the Dayton Children’s Parade Spectacular in Lights. Thousands of lights will illuminate the 45-minute parade, featuring a variety of festive floats, entertainers, animals and several surprises.
Extra precautions have been taken for this year’s Dayton Holiday Festival in order to allow in-person gathering in the safest way possible. The vast majority of the festival’s activities will take place outdoors this year. Guests are encouraged to wear masks covering the mouth and nose, and free masks with festive holiday designs also will be available at the festival for attendees to wear.
“The Grande Illumination and Dayton Children’s Parade Spectacular in Lights is a great night for the family to come downtown,” said Sandy Gudorf, president of the Downtown Dayton Partnership. “The past couple of years have been difficult for all of us, but we are so happy to be able to gather again safely this year to kick off the holiday season together as a community. It will truly be a magical night guaranteed to put you in the holiday spirit.”
Those unable to attend this year’s festivities in person can still enjoy the holiday kickoff by tuning in to WHIO-TV at 7:30 pm on Nov. 26 to watch the Grande Illumination TV special and tree lighting live on television.
The Dayton Holiday Festival continues throughout the month of December with Holiday Family Fun Days and other holiday fun, featuring such activities as the Family Movie Series at The Neon, Virginia Kettering’s Holiday Train Display at Stratacache Tower, the Rike’s animated window displays in the Schuster Center Wintergarden, the Whimsical Windows storefront decorating contest throughout downtown, ice skating at the MetroParks Ice Rink at RiverScape, photos with Santa, and more. Returning this year is Downtown Jingle Lights – an expanded version of last year’s new and popular interactive holiday light show. Drive along Main Street, Third Street, and Monument Avenue evenings through January 1, and tune to 97.1 FM to see downtown streets transformed into an interactive, drive-thru light show, choreographed to the beat of your favorite holiday tunes!
A complete list of festival events is available online, as well as a calendar of other downtown holiday events.
Grande Illumination & Dayton Children’s Parade Spectacular in Lights Schedule
- Grande Illumination ― The tree-lighting ceremony will take place at 7:55 p.m. on Courthouse Square. Media sponsor: WHIO-TV
- Dayton Children’s Parade Spectacular in Lights– Starts immediately following the Grande Illumination. The route: West Second Street to Main Street, south on Main Street to Fourth Street, and then west on Fourth Street. LED parade lights sponsored by NECA/IBEW Electrical Professionals.
- Live reindeer photo station — Take a family photo with a sleigh and live reindeer. It’s unique and fun way to capture your memories of the Grande Illumination and Parade!
- Main Stage Entertainment ― Enjoy live entertainment on the Courthouse Square stage. Performances begin around 4 p.m. The schedule is:
-
- 4:00-4:25 p.m. – Viva La Strings
- 4:30-4:55 p.m. – Queen Amazon
- 5:05-5:30 p.m. – Berachah Valley
- 5:40-6:05 p.m. – Joe Waters
- 6:15-6:40 p.m. – Gwen Brown
- 6:50-7:15 p.m. – Alexis Gomez
- 7:25-7:50 p.m. – Dayton Celebration Chorus
- Magic Glasses ― Look for volunteers passing out these special glasses on Courthouse Square prior to the tree lighting, or pick up a pair at any information station.
- Gingerbread Homes for the Holidays ― View all the delicious contest entries and the award-winning houses, and vote for your favorite, located inside the old Montgomery County courthouse.
- The Holiday Village ― Located on Second Street outside the Stratacache Tower from 4 to 9 p.m., this is a favorite stop for children, featuring free activities for kids and Mrs. Virginia Kettering’s train on display.
- Street Fair on Third- ― At this holiday street fair, free rides and other activities will be set up on Third Street between Main and Ludlow streets.
- Horse-Drawn Wagon Rides ― From 4 to 7:30 p.m., wagons will pick up passengers near the corner of Second and Main streets for a ride through downtown. Rides are $1 per person suggested donation. Lines can be long, so come early.
- Junior League of Dayton’s Holiday Adventure, sponsored by Wright-Patt Credit Union – Kids will go on an adventure around the festival footprint, presented by the Junior League of Dayton. Children who visit all the stops will receive a free book.
- Rike’s Holiday Windows – Located inside the Schuster Center Wintergarden, experience a reimagining of the Rike’s department store holiday window displays that once stood at this busy downtown corner.
- Downtown Jingle Lights – Along Main Street, Third Street, and Monument Avenue, see downtown streets transformed into an interactive, drive-thru light show, choreographed to the beat of your favorite holiday tunes! Tune your radio to 97.1 FM as you drive the route throughout the holiday season.
- Ice Skating – The MetroParks Ice Rink at RiverScape MetroPark opens for the season on Nov. 26.
CATS Returns to the Schuster
Audiences and critics alike are rediscovering this beloved musical with breathtaking music, including one of the most treasured songs in musical theater — “Memory.” Winner of seven Tony Awards including Best Musical, CATS tells the story of one magical night when an extraordinary tribe of cats gathers for its annual ball to rejoice and decide which cat will be reborn.
Restaurants Open On Thanksgiving 2021
Sometimes you want to be the most attentive to your friends and family, and not stuck in the kitchen chopping up vegetables. This way you don’t have to worry about any stuffing sticking to the pan, or any dishes piled up by the end of the day. Whether you have family coming in, you’re having a little “Friendsgiving,” or you’re looking to spend time with the people in your community, here’s a little information on who is ready to let y’all gobble til you wobble this year for Thanksgiving:
A word to the wise before you head out to any of these restaurants. Be sure to give them a call to double-check their holiday hours, as many are reservation only and may already be sold out. Many of those that will be open will be offering limited options, not their entire menu.
Bob Evans
Will be running on normal business hours, even on Thanksgiving Day so if you really don’t want the hassle, dine in and enjoy a hot Thanksgiving meal starting at 8am unitl 7pm!
Find the location nearest you.
Carvers Steaks & Chops
3 course traditional Thanksgiving meal consisting of turkey, homemade stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy, glazed carrots, cranberry sauce, choice of soup or salad, baked bread and pumpkin pie for $28 per person.
Cooper’s Hawk
- Butternut Squash Soup with Spiced Pumpkin Seeds and Sour Cream
- Slow-Roasted Turkey with Pan Gravy
- Traditional Stuffing
- Roasted Green Beans & Carrots
- Mary’s Potatoes
- Cranberry Sauce
- Pumpkin Praline Cheesecake, a collaboration with Eli’s Cheesecake of Chicago, with Vanilla Whipped Cream and Vanilla Sauce
Adult $28.99 & Kids (12 & Under) $12.99
Cracker Barrel
5770 Wilmington Pike, Centerville, (937) 432-2431, 6am – 10pm
7171 Miller Lane, Butler Twp, (937) 890-0047; 6am to 10 pm
3280 Town Blvd, Middletown, (513) 727-4727; 6am to 10 pm
105 West Leffel Lane, Springfield (937) 325-8221; 6am to 10 pm
Turkey and traditional sides. No reservations taken
225 N Ludlow St, Dayton (937) 228-1124
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
4432 Walnut Street, Dayton, OH 45440
937-320-9548 Open 11am – 8pm
Starting at $49 per guest Thanksgiving 3-COURSE MENU
Starter
choice of
FLEMING’S SALAD** walnuts, tomatoes, dried cranberries, red onion, lemon balsamic vinaigrette
LOBSTER BISQUE north atlantic lobster, spiced sherry cream
Entrée
MIXED HERB-ROASTED TURKEY BREAST | 49 dark meat or combination available upon request
PETITE FILET MIGNON* | 64
8oz & peppercorn sauce PRIME BONE-IN RIBEYE* | 74
Sides to Share
MASHED POTATOES GREEN BEANS & ONIONS CINNAMON-ORANGE INFUSED CRANBERRY SAUCE
Dessert
choice of HARVEST NEW YORK CHEESECAKE** classic preparation, orange cranberry sauce, pumpkin cream, candied walnuts & cinnamon CARROT CAKE three-layer cake with cream cheese frosting, drizzle of caramel
The Florentine
reservations required
Ham, Traditional Roasted Turkey, Florentine Meatloaf
Traditional stuffing, mashed potatoes & gravy, macaroni & cheese, Florentine baked beans, homestyle green beahs, corn pudding, sweet potatoes with marshmallow topping, cole slaw, cranberry sauce, pasta salad, roll with butter and pumpkin pie.
$29.99 adults, $12.99 age 8 and under. beverages not included in buffet cost.
Golden Corral
6611 Miller Lane. Dayton, OH 45414. 937-264-3300 open 10am – 8pm
Hasty Tasty
509 Linden Ave., Dayton, (937) 254-8431; 5 am to 6 pm
Thanksgiving dinner specials, no reservations. Cost: TBA, includes dessert.
Mel-O-Dee Restaurant
2350 S Dayton Lakeview Rd New Carlisle, OH 45344 (937) 849-1378
Open 8am – 5pm
Mills Park Hotel
321 Xenia Ave, Yellow Springs, OH 45387
To reserve your spot, go to: www.millsparkhotel.com/thanksgiving
Due to popularity they’ve just added a 6pm seating as well.
Rob’s Restaurant
705 Arlington Rd Brookville, OH 45309 (937) 833-3310 Open 10:30am – 6pm
So Pizza
2419 Miaimsburg- Centerville Road, across from Dayton Mall (937) 813-1258
Will be open for carry-out only.
The Wellington
2450 Dayton Xenia Rd Beavercreek, OH 45434 (937) 426-4600
Reservations are suggested and they will fill up quickly. Regular menu as well as a traditional turkey dinner will be offered from noon – 7pm
Yankee Trace Thanksgiving Buffet
10000 Yankee Street, Centerville OH 45458, (937) 438-4653
Buffet Menu Features:
Roast Tom turkey | Sage dressing | Baked Virginia ham | Roast sirloin of beef | Gravy | Corn bread stuffing | Seafood Newburg | Seasonal potatoes | Fresh fruit bowl | Dinner rolls | Salads | Assorted desserts | And much more!
- 29.95 adults
- 14.95 Children ages 6 – 12
- 5 and under are FREE
- 11am and 1:30pm seatings
Please click on the reservation link to the left to reserve a seating ! Reservations will be confirmed within 24 hours of submittal.To create as safe an environment as possible, Thankgiving buffet reservations are available online only. Walk ins will not be taken at this time.
Waffle House
To find the closest Waffle House to you use the store locator.
It’s open 24 hours and if you sit at the bar you can watch them flip your eggs- it’s like dinner theater.
Giovanni’s Hosts Seven Fishes Wine Dinner
Turkey Day 5K
Continue the tradition or start a new one! Join us on Thanksgiving for this 5K event that benefits the Beavercreek Youth Wrestling program
Werksgiving ft. The Werks & Friends
The Werks bring back the 10th annual Werksgiving to The Brightside, with special guests Dustin Smith & The Daydreamers.
Doors at 7pm | Show at 8pm, tickets run $20
The Lights Go On in Washington Township!
The 29th season of Woodland Lights at Countryside Park features a fantasy land of holiday lights and displays along the half-mile paved path. The month-long festival has more lights, more vignettes, and the same winter whimsy that enchants thousands of visitors each year. Open Friday – Sunday: November 19 through December 19 from 6-9pm and then nightly December 20 through December 30, except for
December 24 & 25 when they will be closed. Tickets run $9 and can be purchased in advance online or on the night of! Children 2 and under are free.
For the first year ever, visitors can stroll through the ten acres of sparkling light and whimsical displays or take a ride on the Rieck Express train along a new path! Climb aboard this colorful four car train that seats up to sixteen and take a scenic ride that winds past the Pollinator Garden and the vernal pond, creating a treasured new memory for long-time visitors. The train was partially sponsored through a generous donation from Rieck Services last year and 2021 will mark its maiden run at Woodland Lights as it’s sure to delight young and old alike. Please note that the trains have replaced the amusement rides.
As always, Santa will be tucked cozily by the fireplace in our historic log cabin, waiting for children to share their wish lists with him. Have your camera ready to take a photo with Santa or any of the costumed characters and animated vignettes you will encounter along the path. Our traditional horse drawn carriage rides will run every night except December 3 & 4.
A variety of amusements and concessions round out the month long celebration including a community favorite:
Pet Night: December 3 & 21- Pets are people too on select night when they are invited to walk the holiday path with their loving owners. Please be sure they are leashed, people-friendly and that owners pick up any waste left behind.
Character Night: December 4 – Meet some of your favorite characters along the path! From Mickey to Minnie to Olaf – and more!
The train, lights and displays of Woodland Lights are powered by the generosity of event sponsors, led by the Sam’s Club of Washington Township, Beavercreek and North Dayton. Sam’s Club has been the festival’s Major Sponsor for ten consecutive seasons, including last year’s modified event. “The community spirit of local businesses shines bright at each Woodland Lights,” says Mark Metzger, Recreation Director. “But we are especially grateful for last year’s sponsors that did not withdraw their support when the traditional festival was canceled by the pandemic. We expect record attendance when Woodland Lights return to Countryside Park this year, which will be a fitting tribute to those who make this community celebration possible.” All sponsors for this year’s event are recognized on our website, on social media and throughout the festival.
Woodland Lights is an outdoor event that rarely closes, even when the weather is cold and snowy. However, rain and ice can force the holiday event to shut down for all or part of an evening. The decision to close rides or the event is taken very seriously and is made at or before 2 pm on a daily basis. To get the latest information on weather-related closings, visit the Woodland Lights Facebook page.
Countryside Park
895 Miamisburg-Centerville Rd
Washington Township, OH 45459
937-433-0130
Friday – Sunday: November 19 through December 19
Nightly: December 20 through December 30
Closed December 24 & 25
Hours of Operation:
6-9 pm
Gate closes at 8:30 pm
YWCA Dayton Announces 2022 Women of Influence Honorees
YWCA Dayton will honor eight women during its 2022 Women of Influence awards luncheon on March 10, 2022, 11:30 a.m. to 1 pm, at the Dayton Convention Center. This year marks the 24th anniversary of the award; with an average attendance of 800, it is known as the largest nonprofit luncheon in Dayton. 2022 will be the first time Women of Influence has been held in person since 2019 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Since 1998, the YWCA Dayton WOI Awards have recognized and honored more than 170
influential women in the Dayton area, visionaries and thought leaders who have made a difference in our community through their dedication to the YWCA mission of empowering
women, eliminating racism, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.
Honorees in the Women of Influence Class of 2022 are:
• Karen DeMasi, Vice-President of Community Development – CityWide
DeMasi’s current role is vice-president of community development for CityWide, a nonprofit community and economic development organization in Dayton.“Karen has worked tirelessly to improve housing and development within the City of Dayton for more than 25 years,” writes her nominator. “Her thoughtful method of empowering the underrepresented in our community to face the challenge of rebuilding is the embodiment of helping to promote peace, striving for justice, and demonstrating dignity to all.”
• Renate Frydman, community advocate & educator
A dedicated educator, scholar, writer, and storyteller, Frydman channeled her influential words as an award-winning contributor to the Dayton Daily News for 30 years, focusing on stories of women’s empowerment and promoting justice, freedom, and dignity. After getting several inquiries from local teachers to share her story, Frydman helped train more than 100 educators in the Miami Valley in accurately teaching Holocaust history, going on to establish the Holocaust Education Committee.
• Jacqueline Gamblin, Founder & CEO – JYG Innovations
As founder and CEO of information technology company JYG Innovations, Jacqueline “Jackie” Gamblin has used her expertise to mentor other entrepreneurs while creating a team environment that supports a unique business model and serving as a passionate advocate for foster youth. “Through open dialogue, conversation, and giving, Jackie uses her influence to uplift those who need a boost,” writes her nominator. “Being a Black female in a predominantly white male industry, she has often encountered the unique position of being the ‘other’ in the room. In light of that experience, Jackie has become an expert in sitting back, observing the room, and understanding who needs to have a seat at the table and a voice.”
• Mary McDonald, Mayor – City of Trotwood
Mary McDonald is an entrepreneur who has served the Miami Valley for more than 38 years and has also worked with various cosmetic companies, such as Fashion Fair Cosmetics, Revlon, Flori Roberts, and many others. Her passion to serve people led her to work with cancer survivors in restorative imaging. “McDonald is passionate about Trotwood and has ignited the City of Trotwood with new energy and a “can-do” spirit,” writes her nominator. “Her tireless work has seen $50 million in new capital investment realized throughout the city, and her leadership and vision has positioned the city as a regional leader in home ownership and financial stability.”
• Gina McFarlane-El, CEO – Five Rivers Health Centers
Currently CEO of Five Rivers Health Centers, McFarlane-El’s career has been dedicated to improving the health outcomes of our community, particularly the underserved. Determined to provide access to affordable, high-quality, compassionate healthcare and meet people where they are, she initiated Five Rivers opening two school-based health centers in Montgomery County and led her team to be one of three practices participating in Ohio Medicaid’s Comprehensive Primary Care Program, receiving statewide recognition for its impact on improving quality of care while lowering costs. She is a devoted champion for providing access to services that improve the health of families, including people experiencing financial, social, or cultural barriers, and she recognizes that racism is a barrier to good health
• Christine Olinsky, OSU Extension Educator – Family and Consumer Sciences (retired)
Olinsky provided leadership to shared administration services and fiscal management within the nine counties of the Miami Valley Extension Education and Research Area, ensuring equitable programming and organizing programs focused on healthy people, healthy finances, and healthy relationships. She paid close attention to family life education with a focus on stress management, work/life balance, parenting, and financial management. Now retired, Olinsky hasn’t slowed down. She currently serves as a Montgomery County Juvenile Court Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) or Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), devoting countless hours to help children in the foster care system, and continued to conduct childcare provider training in the Miami Valley through 4C for Children.
• Karen Dempsey Volke, communications & fundraising executive (retired)
As her nominator wrote, “Karen has the unique ability to see in other women, the potential and leadership qualities that they may not yet see in themselves.” Her career in communications and fundraising has allowed her to raise awareness, and millions of dollars, for numerous Dayton nonprofits that support women, children, and families, including United Rehabilitation Services, Dayton Children’s Hospital, the Kettering Medical Center Foundation (KMCF), Ronald McDonald House Charities, and Clothes That Work. Dempsey Volke founded the Ribbon of Hope Society and Luncheon at KMCF to provide funds for mammography services to uninsured and under-served women in our community.
Additionally, Rev. Vanessa Oliver Ward will be honored with the 2022 Lifetime Achievement Award. Ward retired as co-pastor of Omega Baptist Church and founder/past chair of the Board of the Omega School of Excellence, and currently serves as president of the Omega Community Development Corporation. She was first honored as a Women of Influence honoree in 2006. Rev. Ward has provided support in the development of a breast cancer survivors support group for African American women, and has served on Boards ranging from the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company to the Dayton Foundation Board Committee on Grants and Programs and OneFifteen, DECA, 2-Generation Advisory, Learn to Earn Dayton, and The Dayton Chapter of the Links, Inc. She also serves as a lecturer at United Theological Seminary and is a contributing writer in the book Journey to the Well, a student and leader workbook co-authored with Bishop Vashti McKenzie.
Honorees were selected from a pool of more than 60 nominations by YWCA leadership and the volunteer WOI Committee, led this year by Chair Diane Pleiman, president, Premier Health Physician Network, and Co-Chairs Lori and Chris Kershner. Lori is owner of LMK Advocacy and Chris is president and CEO of the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce. Says Shannon Isom, president and CEO of YWCA Dayton, “We stand in awe of these women. They are thought leaders, innovators, literal care givers. They make our community stronger by
sharing those gifts to break down barriers and help the most vulnerable among us thrive. That is the mission work YWCA Dayton has done for 151 years, and we are honored to lift up these women in pursuit of that vision.
The Women of Influence luncheon is YWCA Dayton’s largest fundraiser. Sponsorship opportunities, program advertising, and table and ticket purchase information is available at www.ywcadayton.org/woi22.
Nominate a Local Educator Who Uses Nature as a Classroom
Five Rivers MetroParks is accepting nominations for its seventh annual OUTStanding Teacher Award, open to Dayton-area classroom educators who teach any subject from pre-K through high school. Nominations are due Jan 31, 2022.
A winner will be selected from each of the following categories:
-
- Rising Star (less than 10 years of teaching experience)
- Leader (10 to 20 years of teaching experience)
- Lifetime Achievement (more than 20 years of teaching experience)
“During these unprecedented times, nature is integral for mental and physical wellness, and also a perfect venue for students to safely learn about our world,” said MetroParks education coordinator Joshua York. “We have amazing teachers in the greater Dayton region who have recognized the power of hands-on learning with nature. This award brings the recognition they deserve and spreads awareness of their good work throughout their school and community.”
Awardees will be announced and celebrated during the Miami Valley Leave No Child Inside Summit this spring. Winning teachers will also receive an award package containing:
- Outdoor educational materials to assist in connecting students to the environment
- Plant kit with plants selected for the winning teacher’s school
- EECO (Environmental Education Council of Ohio) membership and money to use toward the 101 Conference at Camp Kern, held annually the first weekend of October
- A one-year membership to the James M. Cox, Jr. Arboretum Foundation and transportation for their class for a field trip to Cox Arboretum MetroPark (or an alternative experience if an in-person field trip is not an option)
Funded through the James M. Cox Jr. Arboretum Foundation, the award is for teachers providing students with outdoor, environmental experiences that inspire an interest in and positive attitudes about nature. “Research has shown that kids who spend time in nature are happier, healthier and smarter, and so it’s important to celebrate teachers who utilize the outdoors as an education resource,” York said.
Anyone can nominate a teacher by writing a short essay or producing a video (less than five minutes long) that answers the following:
- Why do you feel this teacher is deserving of the OUTstanding Teacher Award?
- In what ways does this teacher get students outside during the school day?
- In what ways does this teacher weave nature into the curriculum?
- Does this teacher get students outdoors after typical school hours? Please provide specifics about what the teacher does.
- What are the most significant positive impacts the nominee has made on other teachers and the school community?
- How does your candidate go above and beyond leading his/her/their students in outdoor experiences? Please provide specific examples of what the teacher does.
- How does this teacher utilize outdoor space at the school? Has he/she/them created or enhanced a green school yard?
- Why are you nominating this person?
Additionally, award submissions should include two photos of the teacher that capture the great work he/she is doing getting kids outside and bringing nature into the curriculum and classroom.
Teachers can self-nominate. Nominations can be submitted by completing an online form and either posting a video to YouTube or uploading the written essay. Information on judging criteria can be found online at metroparks.org/outstanding. Videos do not have to be professionally produced, as the content of the message is what will be judged. Please be as specific as possible in your nomination, so judges have a clear understanding of the amazing work and the impact of your award nominee.
Community volunteers with a background in outdoor education will judge the awards. Five Rivers MetroParks employees and board members of the James M. Cox Jr. Foundation, Wegerzyn Gardens Foundation and Five Rivers MetroParks Foundation and their immediate families are not eligible.
Holiday Bonus Buy Deal: Buy $50 in Downtown Dollars, Get $25 for Free
The Downtown Dayton Partnership is again offering a special bonus buy deal for those who purchase Downtown Dollars. Starting Thursday, November 18, at 12 p.m. noon, for every $50 Downtown Dollars purchased, an extra $25 of Downtown Dollars will be delivered in a separate e-gift card to the buyer.
Downtown Dollars is one e-gift card that is redeemable at more than 80 participating businesses in downtown Dayton, including restaurants, pubs, retailers and services. A full list of the businesses and a link to purchase Downtown Dollars is available at www.downtowndayton.org/dollars.
“Downtown Dollars are redeemable at more than 80 independent, local businesses that offer food, drinks, shopping and more,” said Sandra K. Gudorf, president of the Downtown Dayton Partnership. “They make a great holiday gift for anyone on your list, and this deal gives you a little holiday cheer for yourself, too!” Gudorf added, “Our local, small businesses still need our help as we emerge from the pandemic, and Downtown Dollars are a great way to support them and keep your shopping small and local this holiday season.”
The bonus Downtown Dollars will be delivered to the purchaser in separate $25 gift vouchers from their $50 purchases. The $50 Downtown Dollars e-gift card purchased by the customer does not expire, but the $25 bonus card(s) will expire if not used before December 31, 2021. This promotion is capped at a maximum of four Bonus Buys per customer.
The $25 bonus buys are limited, and are only available while Bonus Buy funds last – so be sure to grab your Downtown Dollars now before this special offer is gone!
Downtown Dollars gives access to the best shopping, dining and entertainment in Downtown Dayton with one card, conveniently stored on a phone or other mobile device.
When you purchase Downtown Dollars for yourself, or to give to others as a gift, the e-gift card is delivered via email or text message. Benefits of the Downtown Dollars e-gift cards include:
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- Downtown Dollars are accepted at more than 80 participating merchants in Downtown Dayton.
- No monthly inactivity fees.
- Your Downtown Dollars balance is listed directly on the card, and is updated as you use your card.
- Purchasing cards is fast, personalized and instantaneous – great for gifts!
- Monthly reminders are sent via email and/or text message to help customers remember they have the gift card available for use.
Go to the Downtown Dollars webpage to purchase your e-gift card for yourself or to send as a gift. Choose the amount, and it will be delivered by email or text message. To learn more about how to redeem your gift cards at participating businesses, visit our website for details and other frequently asked questions. For a complete list of downtown’s businesses, a dining guide, parking maps and more, visit www.downtowndayton.org.