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Dayton at Work: “Jobs from A to Z”

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Yesterday my wife helped me hang “Jobs from A to Z” which will be in the 2nd floor gallery at @DaytonMetroLibrary until November 5th.

I started this series because the memory loss of my father-in-law Wally Willaman was making our time together difficult.  I hoped that we could avoid discussions of the past by having fun working on a project in the present.  It worked.  We had a ball.

I told Wally that when we finished our art would be in an exhibition,  thinking that would keep him interested in the project.  But I knew it was likely that we never would make it to the end.  Wally is 101, and I knew the project would take at least six months.

Well six months later we’ve made it all the way to “Z is for Zookeeper” and Wally’s still going strong.  And the work will be exhibited twice.  Michigan Medicine in Ann Arbor has an active arts in healthcare program. They will display “Jobs from A to Z” from March 11 to May 31, 2024 in a gallery where thousands of people will walk by it each day.

But Ann Arbor is too far for Wally to travel, so Jayne Klose, the library’s Community Engagement Manager, helped us out.  She invited us to exhibit at Dayton Metro Library.

Wally and I hope people have as much fun viewing this art as we did making it.

 

DML and The Foodbank Announce Pantry Partner Locations

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The Dayton Metro Library has partnered with The Foodbank to become an official Pantry Partner location in Montgomery County, with ten select DML Branches (the Burkhardt, E.C. Doren, Huber Heights, Miamisburg, Northwest, Southeast, Trotwood, Vandalia, and West Branches, plus the Main Library) opening Partner Pantries on a monthly rotating schedule beginning Monday, October 17.

Adults in need of food assistance who live in Montgomery County will be eligible to stop into one of the Pantry Partner-designated Branch locations listed and pick up an emergency box. Patrons may visit a pantry once a month, must be 18 years of age or older, and need to bring a photo ID and proof of residency for Montgomery County (such as a utility bill or mail with their name and address).

The emergency boxes contain only food items. However, during DML’s collection drives, donations of personal products may be made, so patrons can request those at their pantry location and receive on a first come basis.

Pantry locations are listed below in alphabetical order. Their days of the week and times are listed as well:

 

  • Burkhardt Branch: 3rd Wednesday of the month, 3:30-5:30 pm, 4704 Burkhardt Avenue, Dayton, 45403

 

  • Electra C. Doren Branch: 2nd Thursday of the month, 3:30-5:30 pm, 701 Troy Street, Dayton, 45404

 

  • Huber Heights Branch: 3rd Thursday of the month, 3:30-5:30 pm, 6106 Chambersburg Road, Huber Heights, 45424

 

  • Main Library: 2nd Tuesday of the month, 3-5 pm, 215 East Third Street, Dayton, 45402

 

  • Miamisburg Branch: Every Tuesday, 5:30-6:30 pm, 545 East Linden Avenue, Miamisburg, 45324

 

  • Northwest Branch: 1st Monday of the month, 11 am-12 pm, and 4th Wednesday of the month, 11 am-12 pm, 2410 Philadelphia Drive, Dayton, 45406

 

  • Southeast Branch: 1st and 3rd Monday of the month, 11 am-12 pm, 21 Watervliet Avenue, Dayton, 45410

 

  • Trotwood Branch: 1st Wednesday of the month, 3-5 pm, 855 East Main Street, Trotwood, 45426

 

  • Vandalia Branch: Every Wednesday, 4:30-5:30 pm, 330 South Dixie Drive, Vandalia, 45377

 

  • West Branch: 3rd Thursday of the month, 5:30-7:30 pm, 300 Abbey Avenue, Dayton, 45417

 

Patrons can visit DaytonMetroLibrary.org/Meals for Pantry Partner updates or call the Library’s Ask Me Line at 937.463.2665 with questions. Additional information about The Foodbank’s other Pantry Partner agencies across their service area can be found at thefoodbankdayton.org/agencies.

Dayton Metro Library Bridges the Digital Divide with GET CONNECTED Program

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Dayton Metro Library is working to bridge the digital divide with Get Connected, an exciting new initiative made possible by a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) and CARES Act funds. Get Connected will provide four months of FREE internet access to 800 local households in need. The program launches on January 5, 2021, and applications will be accepted through February 27, or until the 800 household maximum is reached.

 

“Not having home internet access is a real disadvantage in today’s world,” said Megan Cooper, DML Development Manager. “Students are trying to learn remotely, adults may be looking for work, and many households are struggling to make ends meet. Get Connected will help people get the home internet service they need.”

How does it work? Dayton Metro Library is the initial account holder of record. The Library will cover the cost of Spectrum broadband service and equipment for four months. After that time, participants may choose to transfer the service into their own name, or they may return the equipment and let the service end. Those who choose to transfer service may be eligible for reduced rates through Spectrum’s Internet Assist Program.

“Because Dayton Metro Library is the account holder of record, this program can benefit someone who has been locked out of internet service due to bad credit or past due bills,” said Cooper. 

Get Connected will benefit 800 households in the Dayton Metro Library service area. Applicants must be DML cardholders age 18 and older. To be eligible, households must be in the DML and Spectrum service areas, and not current Spectrum internet customers. Applications will be available starting January 5 at all DML locations; a printable application will be available at DaytonMetroLibrary.org/GetConnected.

 

“Dayton Metro Library is committed to building equity in the community,” said Tim Kambitsch, DML Executive Director. “This includes connecting patrons with support systems and increasing access to resources for minority, disadvantaged, and new residents. By providing free home internet access, we are breaking down barriers and providing an opportunity for people to continue affordable internet access into the future. This could positively impact a child’s success in school, an adult’s search for employment, or an older person’s abilty to stay connected with friends and family.”

 

Full program details are available at DaytonMetroLibrary.org/GetConnected. Complete an application at any branch of the Dayton Metro Library starting January 5. For more information, or to make arrangements to apply curbside, call the Library’s Ask Me Line at 937.463.2665.

 

Dayton Metro Library Announces Site of New Huber Heights Branch

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Dayton Metro Library will build a new freestanding Library to serve the Huber Heights community. The Huber Heights Branch, which will be part of the recently announced redevelopment of the Marion Plaza on Brandt Pike, is the capstone of Dayton Metro Library’s $187 million facilities upgrade, made possible by voter support of a bond issue in 2012.

 

“We appreciate the patience of our Huber Heights patrons as we worked to find the ideal site,” said Tim Kambitsch, DML Executive Director. “We are so pleased that the Library will be part of the Brandt Pike Revitalization Project, and we want to thank the City of Huber Heights for their leadership in making this location possible.”

 

The 27,000 square foot Huber Heights Library will be the second largest Branch in the Dayton Metro system, and an $11.8 million investment in the city.  LWC Inc., the architects of record for the Main Library in downtown Dayton, will design the building.

To launch the design work, the Library is holding a virtual Community Forum on Wednesday, December 9, 4:30-5:30 pm. The community is encouraged to participate. The online meeting will include a project update and the architects will gather feedback on localization opportunities and design values. The event link and password can be found on the Library’s website at DaytonMetroLibrary.org.

 

Dayton Metro Library Offers Curbside Service at All Locations

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Dayton Metro Library is now offering curbside pickup of reserved or requested materials. Curbside service is available at all Dayton Metro Library Branches and the Main Library, Tuesday through Friday, 3- 6pm and Saturday, 12 – 3pm. Bagged materials will be placed directly into vehicle trunks, or patrons can pick up their marked bag at the Library entrance.

 

Patrons may reserve items for themselves using the online catalog or call the Ask Me Line at 937-463-2665 to request materials they want to borrow. Borrowers will be notified via email, text or phone call when their items are ready, and should call the Ask Me Line to arrange for pickup. The items will be checked out to their account, then bagged for carryout at the location of their choice.

 

“We are eager to safely provide the books and other materials people want, while maintaining all health and safety guidelines,” said Deputy Director Rachel Gut.

 

Book drops are now open to accept returns as well. Borrowed Library materials must be placed directly into book drops or the return slot of the Automated Materials Handling machines at the newer Branch Libraries. Library staff will not directly accept returned materials. Items borrowed before March 13 had due dates extended to June 30.

“All returned materials will be quarantined for four days,” said Gut. “After the quarantine period, the items will be checked in and shelved, so they can be safely borrowed by other Library patrons.”

 

Library staff have received training on COVID-19 safety protocols. Staff wear protective face masks, wash hands frequently, wear gloves as needed, check their temperature prior to arriving at work, and follow established protocols for the safe handling of materials. Library buildings remain closed to the public at this time.

 

“In a recent poll, our patrons affirmed that what they miss and want most from their Library right now is access to the physical collection,” said Gut. “We are pleased to be able to offer that access with curbside service, but we look forward to a time when the public can browse our shelves once again.”


For more information about curbside service, or to request items to borrow, call the Library’s Ask Me Line at 937-463-2665 or visit the online catalog atDaytonMetroLibrary.org. The Ask Me Line is now answered live Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. and Saturday 12:00 – 3:00 p.m. Messages can be left at other times.

Library Poetry Contest Goes Digital

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Residents of Montgomery and adjoining counties are invited to enter the Dayton Metro Library Poetry Contest, April 1 through April 30. Anyone residing in Montgomery and surrounding counties (Miami, Greene, Warren, Preble) in these age categories: Teen (Grades 7-12) Adult (age 18-59 ) Older Adult (age 60+) is eligible to enter. There are also two junior categories: Grades 3-4 and Grades 5-6. This year, due to COVID-19’s impacts on Library service, entries will only be accepted through email.

Entries must be emailed to contest@daytonmetrolibrary.org no later than midnight on Thursday, April 30, 2020. Contest details and fillable entry form are available at DaytonMetroLibrary.org/Poetry. Poems can be any subject but must be limited to one page, and only one poem per person. They will be judged by the editorial board of Mock Turtle Zine, an independent, nonprofit collaborative that promotes Dayton area writers and artists in both a print publication and online.

“The Library has hosted the Poetry Contest for many years, but this year we are asking everyone to enter through email,” said Julie Buchanan, Programming Manager. “We hope our contest can still provide a creative outlet for poets while they are spending more time at home. It’s also a great opportunity to fulfill an at-home school assignment,” said Buchanan.

Winners will receive Amazon gift cards. First Place is $100, Second Place $75, Third Place $50 in the Teen, Adult, and Older Adult Categories. Prizes for both junior categories will be Amazon gift cards of $50 for First Place, $35 for Second Place, and $25 for Third Place. First Place winners in all age categories will be published in an upcoming issue of Mock Turtle Zine.

For contest details, a printable entry form, and online entry, visit DaytonMetroLibrary.org/Poetryor call (937) 463-2665.

Land Purchased for New Northmont Metro Library

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Dayton Metro Library has a signed purchase agreement for a six-acre parcel of land in Englewood to be the site of the new Northmont Branch Library.  Located on the south side of West National Road (US Route 40), the new Branch will be located adjacent to the Legacy at Cypress Point Health Campus, just north of Centennial Park’s baseball field.

 

The new Northmont Branch Library will be more than 50% larger than the current facility at the Englewood Government Center. The site is bordered on the north and the east by the bike path, and is conveniently accessible from Clayton, Englewood, and Union.

 

“The location is highly visible from National Road and centrally located to dense population areas in Englewood and Clayton,” said Tim Kambitsch, Executive Director of Dayton Metro Library.  “It is also well positioned to build on our partnerships with the Northmont City Schools, Sinclair Community College, and the YMCA.”

 

Dayton Metro Library looked at several locations along National Road, and explored co-locating on property owned by Northmont City School District.  Site studies determined that the property could not be configured to meet the needs of the Library while maintaining flexible options for potential future use by the school district.

 

Ruetschle Architects has been selected to design the new building.  Construction management services have been awarded to Shook Construction.

 

Design work will get underway in April.  Construction is anticipated to begin in spring, 2021, and take about one year for completion.

 

The new Library is made possible by a $187 million bond issue passed by Montgomery County voters in 2012.

Library presents TED Talks @ Lunch

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Dayton Metro Library’s Diversity and Inclusion Committee hosts a thought-provoking Brown Bag Lunch program on Wednesday, March 6, noon-1:00 p.m. in the Main Library’s Eichelberger Forum, 215 E. Third Street. TED Talks @ Lunch features a screening of three short TED Talk videos on poverty and racial injustice issues, followed by a moderated discussion. The free program is open to the public.

 

Karin VanZandt, former TEDxDayton speaker and current Director of CareSource Life Services will be the moderator. The Library’s Diversity and Inclusion Committee is dedicated to sharing varied perspectives and creating an inclusive, welcoming environment.

 

“Our goal is to spread communication and dialogue both within and beyond the Library,” said Diane Farrell, Director of External Relations and Development. “Some HR Departments may count this as official training, so bring a lunch and spend an hour gaining insight into issues of diversity and inclusion that impact the workplace.”

 

12:00 p.m. – Gather and welcome

12:05-12:40 p.m. – Watch three curated TED Talks

12:40-1:00 p.m. – Discussion led by Karin VanZandt

 

For more information, call (937) 463-2665 or visit DaytonMetroLibrary.org.

 

Luminaries of Dayton: Woodland Tours and Events 2017

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Have your ever visited the cemetery to take a tour? If no, why not? Woodland Cemetery is one of the best and most beautiful cemeteries in Dayton and Ohio and the nation. Here, you can see a great view from the Lookout Tower, study the architecture of the family mausoleums, explore the geology of the grounds, learn about Dayton’s history, discover the cemetery art work on stones more than 175 years old and so much more. There is never any fee to enter and all of the tours are free and open to the public. Bring your bike or wear a good pair of walking shoes and explore for yourself the timeless beauty that is Woodland Cemetery.

Spring Migration Bird Walk
Saturday, May 13, 2017 9:00 am – 11:00 am

Let’s Talk Trees Arboretum Tour
Wednesday’s: May 17, June 14, July 12, August 16, September 13 and October 11
Time: 10:00 am – 11:30 am

Woodland Historic Tour
June 14 and 24, July 12 and 22, August 16 and 26, September 13 and 23, October 11 and 21
Tours begin at 10:00 am

History, Mystery, Mayhem and Murder Tour
Thursday’s at 5:30 pm: June 15, July 20, August 17, September 21
Saturday’s at 10:00 am: June 24, July 22, August 19, September 16
Evening Lantern Tours beginning at 6:30 pm: October 3, 5, 9, 11, 12, 16, 18, 19, 23, 24, 25, 26

Faith and Friends Radio Broadcast and Walking Tour
Thursday, August 3, 2017
Bill and Melody will be broadcasting live from Woodland Cemetery from 3:00 to 6:00 pm. Then join them for the Women of Woodland walking tour at 6:30 pm.

 

Woof Walk
Saturday, August 5
Tours begin at 9:00 and 10:30 am

Discover Woodland Days
Sunday, October 1
Tours begin at 12:00, 12:30 and 1:00 pm

Dayton Metro Library Programs

Early Brewers of Dayton
Northmont Library in Englewood
Monday, May 15, 2017 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Call 937-463-2665 for more information

Doctors of Dayton
Kettering – Moraine Library
Tuesday, June 20, 2017 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Call 937-496-8939 for more information

Cemetery Symbols and Representations
Wilmington – Stroop Library
Monday, July 17, 2017 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Call 937-496-8891 for more information

Cemetery Symbols and Representations
Northmont Library in Englewood
Thursday, August 10, 2017 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Call 937-463-2665 for more information

Street Names of Dayton
Kettering – Moraine Library
Tuesday, August 22, 2017 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Call 937-496-8939 for more information

Tours and programs are free and open to the public. Reservations are required for all tours at the cemetery. Please call 937-228-3221. For more information about tours and programs at Woodland and in the community, click here to visit our website. Woodland Cemetery and Arboretum is located at 118 Woodland Avenue off of Brown Street near the UD campus. All tours start at the front gates on Woodland Avenue.

Volunteers Needed! 

Woodland is seeking volunteers to lead tours and present programs to the public. If you like history and enjoy walking through the cemetery call us now for immediate training. Not interested in leading a tour, we have other positions as well: historical research and helping to plan out new tours, assisting with special events, public speaking engagements, researching family histories, sewing costumes for special events, researching and tagging trees and plants in the arboretum, office work, etc.

For more information on these or any of our volunteer activities, please contact Debra Mescher at 937-228-3221 or debra@woodlandcemetery.org.

Woodland Cemetery, founded in 1841, is one of the nation’s five oldest rural garden cemeteries and a unique cultural, botanical and educational resource in the heart of Dayton, Ohio as you will see as you read through this new MostMetro.com series. Visit the cemetery and arboretum and take one of the many tours Woodland offers free of charge. Most of Dayton’s aviation heroes, inventors and business barons are buried at Woodland.

Woodland Cemetery and Arboretum is located at 118 Woodland Avenue off of Brown Street near the UD Campus. The Woodland Office is open Monday through Friday 8 am to 5 pm and Saturday 8 am to 12 pm. The Cemetery and Arboretum are open daily from 8 am to 6 pm. The Mausoleum is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm. For more information, call 937-228-3221 or visit the Woodland website.

“Scratch Food” – Local Company Reaching New Heights

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The “Meals from Scratch” Team with Matt Hayden (right)

Chef Matt Hayden has been a foodie all of his life. He is the guy who binge orders delivery late at night, or whips up recipes for his family and friends at a moment’s notice.  He has the kick-ass chicken recipe you love or the BBQ that melts in your mouth.  He is also quite the giver to the community.  He is always dedicating time and resources to one cause or another.

For the last 25 years Matt has been a fixture in the Dayton food community.  First with his original ownership of the Pour Haus, with their pizza following and BBQ sauces.  He also had a venture in Miamisburg called the Chimney Inn.

Those experiences lead him to open Scratch Food in Centerville off of Paragon Rd in 2010.

There is one more experience that affected him.  

Laying out hundreds of meals for the day

Chef Hayden unbuttoned his shirt to expose a heart operation scar.  This health scare turned his life around, and tuned him into the healing power of foods.  Now, his business is growing but the most touching aspect, is how they are affecting the lives of Miami Valley residents.  They are literally saving lives with their food.

 

HERE IS THE SKINNY ON SCRATCH FOOD:

—SCRATCH FOOD consists of 2 aspects

Chef Marshall Bartley shows an incredible Chicken Dinner

1)SCRATCH EVENT CATERING:
An upscale catering business that has been hosting large and special events for over a decade.  All the food is made by chefs and they are used to catering for top area companies.  They cater events like weddings with 150-300 or more, up to 3200 people event.  They are involved heavily with Masquerage and of course the upcoming April 22nd Dayton Metro Library opening gala.  Great opportunities for a Food Adventure.

2)MEALS FROM SCRATCH:
A carry out or delivery service of frozen, pre-prepared, nutrient dense meals. This service is for the convenience of busy schedule customers, or assisted living customers.  It makes life easier for them.  It also helps those who are sick and dealing with disease management  like Diabetes, Heart Disease and Cancer.  Are you just looking for convenient meals to fit your healthy lifestyle?  They offer those as well.  All dishes are made carefully and prepared by chefs to strict specifications, with the freshest ingredients.

—Scratch Foods employs some of the most talented local chefs. Chef Marshall

Frozen, prepared meals by chefs, for convenience, health or fighting disease

Bartley, a lifelong friend of Matt’s is just one of the experienced crew working hard to get results for health and taste.  Another star is Kristen LeMaster, the event coordinator and Project Manager for the business.  The other chefs on the team round out this talented crew.

—Scratch Food is always giving back to the community.  Be it the Suzy Pender Memorial Fund, The Pink Ribbon Girls, or his latest, the April 22nd kickoff of the new library downtown.  For decades he has helped countless local causes.  Sisca, Boonshoft Museum, Antioch and the Bull Diabetes Center on Schantz Ave. and a couple more charities.  Food Adventures loves their stuff.

—Besides battling heart disease, Matt has another motivation.  Matt lost his mother at a young age, and she has been a source of inspiration to helping people battling illnesses.  By working with Miami Valley Hospital, their often quoted mantra is “Let Food be Thy Medicine.”

Chicken Cakes with Sweet Potato Succotash

—Want some Meals from Scratch? Within 12 hours of placing your online order at this website, you will be contacted by  email.  They will set up a day and time, convenient for you, to pick up your meals from our Centerville location, behind the Paragon Supper Club at 767 Miamisburg-Centerville Road. Your meals can be picked up 7 days a week from 10am thru 7pm.  Sometimes your meals can be picked up “on the fly” within an hour of placing your order. But typically, pickup time is agreed upon with Scratch  to make sure that your order is properly handled.

—Between the Pink Ribbon Girls, Miami Valley Hospital and pickup orders, Scratch prepares over 1,000 meals each week.  Are you in need of help because of a family member with cancer?  GET INFORMATION HERE.

Garlic Chicken from Scratch Catering

—Are you in need of carryout or delivery meals?  Catering needs?  Nutritional Meals?  Call 937-567-7850 or fill out this online form.  This Food Adventure could change your life.

So what are the best eats from Scratch Foods?  Catering wise and frozen meals wise …?  Here are our patented MUST EATS..

 

MUST EATS FROM SCRATCH CATERING:

Ribs – smoked all day

—DEEP FRIED GARLIC CHICKEN at THE GARLIC FESTIVAL:
Unforgettable flavor in a deep fried chicken strip. Cheesy garlic goodness is what awaits you, with a sinful butter dip.

—BBQ BABY BACK RIBS:
Fall off the bone. with incredible homemade BBQ sauce. A taste you wont soon forget.

—SMOKED CHICKEN:
Quarters of chicken, that come out so juicy it is like it is baked. Again the BBQ sauce for dipping is a must.

—SMOKED PULLED PORK:
Matt used to travel the country to learn how to smoke meats. The results of his studies are a near perfect pulled pork.

Smoked Chicken

We have tried a dozen of these frozen meals over the past month and have some favorites.  Here are our “MUST EATS”

 

MUST EATS FROM MEALS FROM SCRATCH:

—HOMESTYLE MEAT LASAGNA WITH FRESH GREEN BEANS:
You wont believe the food was made and frozen a couple of weeks ago, it tastes like freshly made. Each forkful of lasagna and sauce is a taste of comfort food.

Meat Lasagna and Green Beans

—CHICKEN CABBAGE ROLLS:A unique, healthy take on an old comfort food. But guess what, it works. Try this for the surprise of your night.

-CHICKEN PARMESAN WITH CAVATAPPI PASTA and FRESH GREEN BEANS:
Just enough sauce with the chicken and pasta, make this a delightful dish.. Again the freshness is amazing and we can’t believe it was not just made.

-CHICKEN CURRY with CAULIFLOWER, SWEET POTATOES and PEAS:
Indian dish, with fresh veggies. It is unique and flavorful, and the spiced chicken is the best part.

-ORANGE CHICKEN WITH FRESH BROCCOLI and RICE BLEND:
Probably Big Ragu’s Favorite Dish. Worth a treat sometimes.

Chicken Cabbage Roll

-SOUTHWESTERN CHICKEN WITH COLORADO SAUCE, BLACK BEAN MASHUP and RICE BLEND:
The sauce on the chicken and the bean mashup steal the show. A great tasting dish that doesn’t taste healthy, but it is. Try this high nutrient dense plate to curb your appetite.

-ASIAN CHICKEN BLEND with BROCCOLI, SESAME SLAW and RICE BLEND:
Great tasting slaw on top of chicken with that Asian taste. The veggies and rice go perfect with it. They nailed the flavor on this one.

-OLD WORLD CHICKEN CAKES WITH SWEET POTATO SUCCOTASH:

Beef and Vegetables

So delicious and inventive, it is amazing how healthy the dish is. One of those plates you cant get enough of, forkful after forkful.

So there you have it… our MUST EATS …

Often imitated, never duplicated, you can find Food Adventures on Facebook here.  No rules, just fun !

Browse the photos below from our numerous meals with Scratch Food.

The Chefs stand behind their meals…

MEALS FROM SCRATCH MENU

Chicken with Colorado sauce and black beans

Chicken dishes that are heart healthy

Preparing hundreds of meals

 

Beef Brisket Catering sample

Simple chicken and broccoli with rice

Lasagna

Orange Chicken

Packaged up

Promo code for discounts !!

MealsFromScratchFood.com

Orange Chicken dish

Chicken Parm

Another healthy dish : Asian Chicken

The sesame slaw is good

Curry chicken dish

 

 

 

 

Library Presents Writers Programs Presented by Authors

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septocthightlightsAccomplished local authors will share their best writing advice with novice and experienced writers at the Dayton Metro Library this fall. Adults and teens currently writing, or interested in writing, are welcome to attend any or all of the programs in the Series.

“The Library is the perfect location to bring aspiring writers together with successful authors,” said Jennifer Spillman, Chair of the Library’s Programming Committee. “These programs will inspire and motivate writers of all sorts.”

The Writing Series is intended for adults, although teen writers are welcome as well. Author Katrina Kittle will lead programs geared specifically toward teens each month. All programs are FREE.

Basics of Plot Development with Rob E. Boley
SAT., 9/10 | 10-11:30 AM | WILMINGTON-STROOP, 3980 Wilmington Pk.
Are you a plotter, or a pantser? Find out the difference and learn the key components of a solid story that will keep your reader turning the page.

Moving a True Story to Fiction with Kathryn Lang-Slattery
TUE., 9/13 | 6:30-8 PM | VANDALIA, 500 S. Dixie Dr.
Learn how to turn a real life story into engaging fiction, so your book is more than just “based on” historical events.

Bust Out of your Writing Rut! with Nancy Christie
THUR., 9/22 | 6:30-8 PM | NEW LEBANON, 715 W. Main St.
Get some rut-busting tips to move toward your writing goals. Identify your objectives, overcome self-imposed barriers and get out of your writing rut!

Dialogue: Tips & Traps with Katrina Kittle
SAT., 10/1 | 1-2:30 PM | HUBER HEIGHTS, 6160 Chambersburg Rd.
Bad dialogue can sink an otherwise promising story, and good dialogue can make a story fly. Here’s a crash course in strengthening dialogue, whether in fiction, memoir or nonfiction.

Inventing (and Reinventing) Yourself as a Writer with Sandra Gurvis
SAT., 10/8 | 1-2:30 PM | NORTHWEST, 2410 Philadelphia Dr.
Aimed at both novice and experienced writers, explore the many ways you can use writing skills to boost your career or earn income as a freelancer.

Learn to Edit Your Own Writing with Carol Cartaino
SAT., 10/15 | 2-3:30 PM | WILMINGTON-STROOP, 3980 Wilmington Pk.
Editing your own work is difficult, but essential. With 10 years’ experience as Editor-in-Chief of Writer’s Digest books, Carol Cartaino can show you how.

The Art of Word: A Practitioner’s Approach to Writing with Sierra Leone
THUR., 10/27 | 6:30-8 PM | NORTHWEST, 2410 Philadelphia Dr.
Poet, author and educator Sierra Leone shows you how to take ownership of your muse and strengthen your personal writing rituals.

TEEN WRITING PROGRAMS
with Author Katrina Kittle

NaNoWriMo Prep
THUR., 10/20 | 3:30-5 PM | BROOKVILLE, 120 Blue Pride Dr.
Determined to give National Novel Writing Month a try? This workshop will give you a clear roadmap for your novel!

Jumpstart Your Writing
SAT., 11/12 | 1-3 PM | WEST CARROLLTON, 300 E. Central Ave.
Get the inspiration you need to finally start (or finish) your project! Lots of prompts and exercises to help you keep a story moving.

Empathy and Antagonists
THUR., 12/15 | 3:30-5 PM | KETTERING-MORAINE, 3496 Far Hills Ave.
A variety of exercises will help you consider others’ points of view, “humanize” your villains, and help you see the difference between understanding and condoning someone’s actions.

Cash Prizes For Dayton Metro Library Poetry Contest

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contests-med_3-1The Dayton Metro Library’s Poetry Contest is open and accepting entries through September 30, 2016. Residents of the Miami Valley region are eligible to enter in one of three age categories:  Teen (age 13-18), Adult (age 19-59) and Senior (age 60 and over).

A panel of judges will read the entries in October, and awards will be presented at a Poetry Party awards ceremony with open mic on Saturday, November 5, 2016. The Friends of the Dayton Metro Library provide cash prizes in each age category, with first place winning $100, second place $75 and third place $50.  Finalists are notified by phone.

“There’s so much talent and creativity in our community, and not only among experienced writers,” said Gwen Owen, poetry contest coordinator. “Many people find they have something to say and a unique, creative way to say it. The Library’s Poetry Contest encourages them.”

Judging the contest this year are Dr. Herbert Woodward Martin, Professor Emeritus of the University of Dayton; Sinclair Community College English Department Faculty Adam Williams and Carl DeSantis; and poets T.J. McGuire and Aimee Noel.

Entry forms with official contest rules are available at all Dayton Metro Library locations, online at DaytonMetroLibrary.org or by calling the External Relations Office at 937-496-8901. Entries must be received at any Dayton Metro Library location no later than 6:00 p.m. on Friday, September 30, to be eligible.

 

ADULT CATEGORY:

MATT BIRDSALL – Poet, Editor of Dayton’s literary journal Mock Turtle Zine and author of The Long and Short of It (his first full-length collection of poetry).

DAVID GARRISON – Poet, Professor Emeritus, Modern Languages, Wright State University. Ohio Poet of the Year in honor of his book Playing Bach in the D. C. Metro.

SIERRA LEONE – Artistic Director of The Signature: A Poetic Medley Show, an urban creative arts production housed at The Loft Theatre. President of Tripple Croxx Entertainment and Director of Signature Educational Solutions; a leading independent, creative arts & educational organization in downtown Dayton.

The judges for the poetry contest are as follows:
SENIOR CATEGORY:

GARY PACERNICK – Poet and Professor Emeritus of English/creative writing/poetry at Wright State University.

GARY MITCHNER – Poet, Professor Emeritus of English and former Chair of English, Sinclair Community College.

FURAHA HENRY-JONES – Poet and Professor of English, Sinclair Community College since 2005. Speaker at TEDxDayton in 2013

TEEN CATEGORY:

M. ALICE CALLIER – Educator, Dayton Public Schools, Wright State University, Sinclair, Wilberforce University and Central State. Member of Dayton Metro Lifelong Library Advisory Council.

ELIZABETH SCHMIDT – Poet, Librarian, Coordinator of Wright Library Poets.

STEPHANY ARAUJO – Dayton Metro Library Teen Services Librarian, Brookville Branch.

Checkout High School Yearbooks Online

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yearbooks2Dayton Metro Library’s Special Collections Division has scanned and uploaded more than 150 high school yearbooks for viewing on the Library’s website. Yearbooks currently available range in years from Steele High School in 1909 to Centerville High School, 2007. More than 200 additional yearbooks from Dayton-area schools will be uploaded in the coming months.

“Yearbooks are fun because we like to look at photos of our friends and family when they were younger, but they are also very important and useful for genealogical research,” said Jamie McQuinn, Special Collections Manager. “These books will continue to assist researchers for generations to come.”

The Special Collections Division includes historical collections such as newspapers, photographs, postcards, rare books, maps and manuscripts. Many of these items, as well as the Yearbook Collection, have been digitally preserved and are available for viewing online at Dayton Remembers: http://content.daytonmetrolibrary.org/cdm/.

“The Library’s yearbook collection has many gaps,” said McQuinn. “We depend on donations from schools or individuals to fill those gaps. Yearbook donations are always gratefully accepted.”

Yearbooks currently available online include (note that no all years within the listed date ranges are available):
Open-Book-569x400
Centerville H.S. 1944-2007
Chaminade H.S. 1940-1968
Dunbar H.S. 1962-63, 1975-78
Fairmont H.S. 1931-31, 1954-60
Fairmont East H.S. 1978-1983
Fairmont West H.S. 1965-1967
Fairview H.S. 1923-26
Jefferson H.S. 1947-54, 1983-2005
Oakwood H.S. 1923-1940, 1955-71
Steele H.S. 1909-1926
Stivers H.S. 1915-1926, 1963-1966
West Carrollton H.S. 1960-73
Wilbur Wright H.S. 1971-74page_1

Soon to be added:
Colonel White H.S. 1977-78
Meadowdale H.S. 1962-76
Miami Valley School 1980-90
Northmont H.S. 1957-71
Northridge H.S. 1980-2008
Patterson H.S. 1954-1976

The Special Collections Division is temporarily housed at the Genealogy Center, 359 Maryland Avenue, while the Main Library is under construction. Yearbooks can be viewed at: http://content.daytonmetrolibrary.org/cdm/landingpage/collection/p16669coll3.

For more information, call the Dayton Metro Library at (937) 463-BOOK.

Libraries For A Smarter Future Announce Newest Plans

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WCF-Aerial1The Dayton Metro Library announced today that a location has been selected for a new branch in West Dayton. The West Branch Library consolidates the current Madden Hills and Westwood Branches into one new, larger facility which will be located adjacent to the historic Wright Airplane Factory at Rt. 35 and Abbey Avenue.
“We received valuable input from the community at three public forums,” said Tim Kambitsch, Dayton Metro Library Executive Director. “Through consensus, this site was one of the community’s top preferences. That it is equal distance from both current branches gave us greater interest in this site.”
The seven-acre site is part of the larger Dayton Aviation Heritage Redevelopment site. In addition to the historical Wright Brothers buildings, plans call for an Aviation Heritage museum to be located there.

“There’s an exciting synergy with the National Aviation Heritage Alliance,” said Kambitsch. “A beautiful new Library will be a catalyst for additional investment and development in West Dayton.”

Design work on the four branch construction projects in Segment Three of the system-wide facilities upgrade will begin in July. Shook/Wise will serve as Construction Manager for the projects, which are scheduled for completion mid-year in 2018. The public is invited to forums with the architects to give input on the design process.

WEST CARROLLTON (renovation and expansion at current location)98133456a69fec1636e38354167435141636741
15,000 sq. ft. (current branch is 10,000 sq. ft.)
Total project costs $6.5 million
Levin Porter Associates – Architect of Record
Public Forum: Thursday, July 7, 7:00 p.m. West Carrollton Civic Center Meeting Room

WEST BRANCH (new facility)
Consolidates the Madden Hills and Westwood Branch Libraries
To be located adjacent to the historic Wright Airplane Factory at Rt. 35 and Abbey Avenue
24,000 sq. ft. (combined total of current branches is approximately 12,000 sq. ft.)
Total project costs $10 million
LWC, Inc., a minority-owned business in Dayton, is the Architect of Record
Public Forum: Tuesday, July 12, 7:00 p.m. Wright Dunbar Meeting Room, 1100 West Third Street

WILMINGTON-STROOP (new building at current site in Kettering)
21,000 sq. ft. (current building is 13,600 sq. ft.)
Total project costs $8.9 million
Ruetschle Architects – Architect of Record
Public Forum: Wednesday, July 13, 7:00 p.m. Library Meeting Room, 3980 Wilmington Pike, Kettering

SOUTHEAST (new facility)
Consolidates the East and Belmont Branch Libraries
Agreement with Dayton Public Schools to build at the corner of Wayne and Watervliet Avenues (near Belmont High School)
24,000 sq. ft. (combined total of current branches is less than 13,000 sq. ft.)
Total project costs $10 million
Levin Porter Associates – Architect of Record
Public Forum: Wednesday, July 20, 7:00 p.m. (location to be announced)

Construction continues at the Brookville, Kettering-Moraine, Miamisburg, New Lebanon, and Vandalia Branches as well as the Main Library in downtown Dayton. The Electra C. Doren, Miami Township and Northwest Branch Libraries have been completed.  Site selection continues on the four remaining projects in East Dayton/Riverside, Englewood/Clayton, Huber Heights and Trotwood.

1058330530“It’s exciting to see the beautiful finished Libraries, those in progress and those that are just beginning,” said Jayne Klose, Community Engagement Manager at the Library. “It’s a massive undertaking that will result in state-of-the art Libraries in all our communities, with larger spaces, flexible community rooms and new technology too.”

In November 2012, Montgomery County voters passed a $187 million bond issue to improve Dayton Metro Library facilities. The plan, known as Libraries for a Smarter Future, calls for updates, expansions or new construction at all Dayton Metro Library locations across Montgomery County.

For updates or more information, visit the Facilities page at DaytonMetroLibrary.org or call 937-463-BOOK.

New Buildings Bring New Volunteer Opportunities To Library

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Dave Hicks

David Hicks, Volunteer Services Manager, Dayton Metro Library

New, improved Dayton Metro Library facilities mean new opportunities for volunteers, and Volunteer Services Manager Dave Hicks is up to the task. Hicks has added eight new volunteer positions since he was hired into the position in September, 2015, and is open to suggestions and ideas for more.

“I enjoy hearing feedback from staff and volunteers about their experiences,” said Hicks.

Already in 2016, 2,445 volunteer hours have been contributed. With two new facilities scheduled to open in Brookville and New Lebanon, more volunteers will be needed as Greeters and Program Helpers.

New volunteer positions at the Dayton Metro Library include:

Conversation Partner helps new Americans practice English conversation skills
Reading Buddies offer one-on-one reading encouragement to children.
Library Mascot wears the child-friendly Cosmo costume at Library and community events.
Maker Kit Helpers share their skills and interests during labs and activities using 3D printers, circuits, computers, kitchen tools, textiles and more.
New Facilities Greeters welcome patrons to their new Libraries, offer assistance with new technology, directions and information.

“Currently our most pressing needs are for help with the Summer Meal Program at our new Northwest Branch Library,” said Hicks. “We need volunteers to assist Library staff in distributing meals, set up and clean up for this program which takes place four days each week.”

Hicks has worked for the Dayton Metro Library since 1997 in various roles. He has a Bachelor of Science degree in Business from Wright State University, and also earned Masters degrees in Human Resources Management and Library and Information Science.

Summer is a busy time at all Dayton Metro Libraries. Activities keep children and teens engaged during the school break, and the Library’s Summer Challenge awards prizes for reading and program attendance.

“Volunteers are needed to help with all the programs and Summer Challenge details,” said Hicks. “When the New Lebanon and Brookville Branches later this year, we’ll need Greeters to welcome patrons to the new facilities.”

In the fall, Homework Helper volunteers will be active, along with Conversation Partners and Reading Buddies.

A complete list of volunteer opportunities and online application is available at http://daytonmetrolibrary.org./about-us/volunteer.

Questions about volunteering can be directed to Dave Hicks at (937) 496-8638 or emailed to DHicks@daytonmetrolibrary.org.

Kids Superhero “Party in the Park”

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Party in the ParkKids are you ready to have fun before school starts back up? Grab your favorite superhero costume and get your Mom or Dad to bring you downtown to Cooper Park for an epic “Party in the Park.” This is a free event – so no allowance money necessary!

The Dayton Metro Library is hosting this awesomeness, which includes: international dancing and singing, live animals, an activity zone, puppets, sidewalk art, face painting, and more! There are going to be contests for costumes, dancing and paper airplane flying, with prizes. Wow! The whole day is planned to be fun for the whole family – so remember to invite your brothers and sisters too.

The Library is also revealing the name for their new mascot! Adults and kids from across the region voted, and this will be the grand unveiling of their names.

This party is August 8th from 1-4pm at Cooper Park. Rain or shine. Cost of admission and activities is free. Food trucks will be on hand for purchase of food and beverages.

PS… Kids, I’ve heard a rumor that some of your favorite cartoon characters may make an appearance – so don’t miss it! (virtual fist bump)