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five rivers metroparks

National Geographic Live Presents BRYAN SMITH: THE LENS OF ADVENTURE

March 17, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Bryan-Smith-920-150x150Adventure Filmmaker BRYAN SMITH headlines the second event of the 2013-2014 FIFTH THIRD BANK NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC LIVE SERIES on March 24 at 7 p.m. in the historic Victoria Theatre. This thrilling event is presented by Victoria Theatre Association and Five Rivers MetroParks. Tickets are available at the Ticket Center Stage Box Office, by phone at 937-228-3630, 888-228-3630or online at www.ticketcenterstage.com.

In this presentation, audiences get an inside look into the life of BRYAN SMITH and how he maintains balance and joy of creating a meaningful life. Smith shares stories about gripping moments like kayaking in India from his assignments to document extreme feats and high adventure in the world’s most challenging environments. His presentation of THE LENS OF ADVENTURE accompanied by touching stories excite the audience and provides them an insider’s look into his life and world.

Along with his film work, BRYAN SMITH is a passionate kayaker who has paddled steep rivers in India, Peru and Russia, and was inspired to take up video photography while protesting a hydroelectric dam project that threatened British Columbian rivers. He developed a knack for creating innovative technical solutions to capture dizzying images inevitably putting himself and his team at risk to get the shot. Currently, BRYAN SMITH is traveling the world in search of the world’s monster fish for the popular Nat Geo Wild series “Hooked.” He recently filmed and directed The Man Who Could Fly, a Nat Geo special documenting experiments in human-powered flight.

 Single tickets for BRYAN SMITH start at just $20 and are on sale now at the Ticket Center Stage Box Office, by phone at 937-228-3630, toll-free 888-228-3630 or online at www.ticketcenterstage.com. Ticket Center Stage Box Office hours are Monday – Friday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Saturday noon – 4 p.m., and two hours prior to each performance.

Filed Under: Arts & Entertainment Tagged With: Adventure Film making, Bryan Smith, FIFTH THIRD BANK NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC LIVE SERIES, five rivers metroparks, The Lens of Adventure, Victoria Theatre

Still Time To Volunteer for The Adventure Summit!

February 6, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

volunteer The Adventure Summit is hosted every two years by Five Rivers MetroParks and Wright State University. The Summit seeks to inspire and educate people interested in a vibrant and healthy lifestyle by offering demonstrations, classes, competitions, and vendors.
The event is February 14 & 15 at WSU Student Union. Details can be found at www.theadventuresummit.com.
All event volunteers will receive a FREE Get Out & Live shirt, access to our hospitality area and the opportunity to work with a great team of outdoor recreation enthusiasts!
The following positions still need filled. Positions will be filled on a first-come, first filled basis. Please be flexible.
Thursday, February 13
Set-up, Noon – 3:00 PM

Saturday, February 15
Classroom Ambassador, 1:30 – 5:30 PM
Classroom Ambassador, 1:30 – 5:30 PM
Poolside Support, 1:15 – 4:00 PM
Poolside Support, 1:15 – 4:00 PM
General Tear-Down, 5:00 – 8:00 PM
MetroParks Booth Ambassador, 2:30 – 6:00 PM

Position descriptions can be found at www.theadventuresummit.com/volunteer.
To help, contact Lucy Sanchez at lucy.sanchez@metroparks.org or call (937) 274-3171.

Filed Under: Active Living Tagged With: five rivers metroparks, The Adventure Summit, volunteer

5 Tips to Staying Active and Healthy This Winter

January 12, 2014 By Stephanie DePalma Leave a Comment

Baby it’s cold outside-just because the mercury is dropping don’t let your activity level drop too!  Don’t let the winter blues get you down and keep you from living an active lifestyle.  The winter isn’t meant for us to hibernate.  We still have to get up and go to work every day just like in the summer so why shouldn’t we still keep active.  Here are five easy remedies to fighting winter hibernation and starting the year off right.

1.      Go out and PLAY!

If you can’t seem to muster the energy to work out this time of year, try “playing” instead. You can burn quite a few calories playing indoors or out. The best part is that it doesn’t feel like working out—though you can still get your heart rate up and have an excellent cardio and muscle toning session. Take advantage of this snow filled winter and have a blast in the winter wonderland outside by making snow angels, having a snowball fight, building a snowman or sledding! These are fun activities you can do by yourself, with friends or kids.  They are great family bonding activities that will leave everyone sweaty, fit and exhilarated!

2.      Take up a winter sport

If, like me, you’re a competitive type, why not try a new winter sport?  From skiing to snowshoeing or ice-skating, there are many great options that burn mega calories and put a whole new twist on staying active this winter.  In the Dayton area we are fortunate to have the Five Rivers MetroParks that offer outdoor skating to add some scenery to your activity.  Ski slopes like Perfect North and Mad River Mountain offer a lot of discounts this season and are a short drive away.  This winter, try something new, challenge yourself in a way you never thought possible, and I promise you won’t regret trying.

3.      Try a workout class

Workout classes are a great motivator for me.  They offer accountability and the hardest part is showing up.  Don’t have a gym membership?  No problem!  There are plenty of drop-in classes open to anyone in our area.  Hot Yoga is a “hot” trend right now with multiple classes all over the Dayton area.  Kettering Rec Center has some awesome Zumba and TRX classes as well as many of the other recs and YMCA’s in town.  If you’re a woman, I highly recommend trying out BAER Fit Chicks!  All of these classes offer great workouts in different ways and will keep you going through the cold months.

4.      Try a workout DVD

Too cold to leave your house?  No time for an hour workout or feel you need to spend more time at home?  Try a workout DVD!  You can find DVDs that offer rejuvenating workouts ranging anywhere from 8 minutes to 1 hour.  I am a huge fan of the Jillian Michaels DVDs, especially the 30 Day Shred.  Jeannette Jenkins also has a great kickboxing DVD that is so much fun I don’t even realize I’m getting a workout.  Want something you can do with the kids or the whole family?  Try Just Dance on the Wii!  I have worked up some of my best sweats playing this game and it is SO MUCH FUN!!!!

5.      Do your household chores

Admittedly, this isn’t my favorite option.  But it does help me not spend the entire day on my couch, in my PJs, accomplishing nothing.  Unless you’re tuning in and working out with a fitness show, limit your downtime at the TV and computer. If you’re stuck indoors, get a jump on spring cleaning. (Remember, when the warm weather returns, you’ll want to be back outside, not cleaning the house.) Collect and recycle old clothes and used appliances that have been taking up space in your closets, and take care of the various household chores you’ve been putting off since the summer. An hour of housework burns about 200 calories; plus, this winter activity will give you a great sense of accomplishment.

So it’s time to get excited. If you’ve never been a winter fan, start focusing on what you do love about it and how this time of year provides new opportunities for your fitness and health. From eating delicious in-season produce (oranges, kale, and chestnuts, oh my!), to curling up with a steaming mug of hot cocoa in front of the fireplace after a long workout, there is much to love about winter when you embrace it and appreciate all it has to offer.

Filed Under: Active Living, The Featured Articles Tagged With: Cardio, DVD, exercise, five rivers metroparks, Mad River Mountain, Perfect North, Play, skating, workout, yoga

New Scenic Bikeway Connects Austin Interchange Area To Regional Bikeway Network

October 29, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Medlar_walkingAfter four months of construction, a new segment of the regional bikeway system has been added in south Montgomery County. Medlar Bikeway, opening Thursday, Oct. 31, was made possible thanks to a unique partnership between various local organizations. The bikeway makes a significant step toward a southern connection between the Great Miami River and the Little Miami River bikeways, the region’s two main arterial trails.

 

Participating partners of the project include Five Rivers MetroParks, Miami Township, Montgomery County Transportation Improvement District, The Ohio Department of Transportation, City of Miamisburg, Montgomery County and Miamisburg City Schools District.

 

Construction began in June at Five Rivers MetroParks’ Medlar Conservation Area. The completed bikeway links the Austin Road Interchange at I-75 to the Great Miami River Bikeway.

 

Riders can access the new trail from the Great Miami River Bikeway north of Crains Run Park south of Miamisburg, or from MetroParks’ Medlar Conservation Area at the southwest corner of Medlar Road and Miamisburg Springboro Pike. Medlar Bikeway will add to the Miami Valley’s regional bikeway network, the largest in the nation with over 330 miles of paved, off-road bike paths.

 

The public is invited to participate in a ribbon cutting ceremony after which Five Rivers MetroParks staff and local bike clubs will lead riders on the first ride on the two-mile  bikeway. The path leads riders through wetlands, ravines, and mature forest to a hilltop vista.

 

The ribbon cutting ceremony will be held Thursday, October 31, at 10 a.m. at the Medlar Conservation Area, 4558 Medlar Road (rain or shine). Attendees are asked to park at the Miamisburg Soccer Complex at 4350 Medlar Rd. Shuttles will bus attendees to and from the ceremony. Accommodations will be available for the handicapped. Those planning to attend are asked to RSVP to mar@dacc.org.

Learn more about the largest connected bikeway network in the country by visiting www.metroparks.org/cycling or calling (937) 275-PARK (7275).

Filed Under: Active Living, The Featured Articles Tagged With: five rivers metroparks, Medlar Bikeway

Dayton Second City in Ohio Declared A “Trail Town”

October 25, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

1391972_10151917813568921_1532127173_nFive Rivers MetroParks will celebrate with the City of Dayton, the Buckeye Trail Association and the North Country Trail Association the official designation of Dayton as “Trail Town”. The event will take place Friday, October 25, at 11:00am at Deeds Point MetroPark. The event is free and open to the public.

 

The North Country National Scenic Trail and the state-wide Buckeye Trail have partnered to improve access, strengthen interest in outdoor activities, and boost economic benefits by providing recognition to local businesses.  Together, they strive to build a community that values outdoor recreation for the health of the environment, the people, and the economy.

 

“We are so happy to have Dayton as the newest Trail Town along the North Country National Scenic Trail. Dayton is a great example of how an urban area can embrace a trail culture, providing a superb recreational resource for its citizens while benefiting it’s economy and the health of the environment,” said Andrea Ketchmark of North Country Trail Association. “This partnership will do great things for the Trail and for Dayton!”’

 

“Trail Towns” are built on a relationship between a municipality, the Trail, and its supportive volunteers.  For Dayton, the partnership will help to establish and nurture relationships that are mutually beneficial for trail users and the public-at-large within the City of Dayton and the surrounding area.

 

“We are ecstatic to be only the second city in Ohio to receive this designation,” said Dayton City Commissioner Nan Whaley. “This reinforces our ongoing efforts to make Dayton a vibrant community that realizes the importance of outdoor recreation.”

 

1380211_594837987230121_1676254459_nThe Buckeye and North Country National Scenic Trails are co-aligned through the Dayton area, following the Mad River and Great Miami Recreation Trails.  The trails are marked by 2×6 inch blue blazes along the route.

 

The North Country Trail is the longest of the 11 National Scenic Trails and stretches 4,600 miles from North Dakota to New York and follows much of the Buckeye Trail as it wraps through Ohio.  Crossing seven northern states, the trail is not only a national asset, but it is accessible from many communities making it a valuable local recreational resource.

 

The Buckeye Trail is a 1,400 mile trail circumnavigating the state travelling through 48 counties.  Volunteers of the Miami Rivers Chapter of the Buckeye Trail Association help maintain sections of these trails in the Dayton area, working closely with land managers from Five Rivers MetroParks and Miami Conservancy District.

 

“The Buckeye Trail Association is excited to partner with the community of Dayton, one of the largest and most supportive along Ohio’s State Trail,” shared Andrew Bashaw of the Buckeye Trail Association. “By working together we hope to promote this amenity to the quality of life around Dayton and encourage Dayton area residents to engage in using the Buckeye and North Country National Scenic Trail nearby and around Ohio!”

 

Working together to provide this premier off-road walking path is a partnership of trail volunteers, land managing agencies, the National Park Service, private foundations, civic organizations and businesses.

 

For more information about hiking trails throughout Montgomery County, visit MetroParks.org.

 

Filed Under: Active Living, The Featured Articles Tagged With: Buckeye Trail, five rivers metroparks, North Country National Scenic Trail, Trail Town

Dayton Earns Distinction As A Trail Town

October 9, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

overviewmapFive Rivers MetroParks will celebrate with the City of Dayton, the Buckeye Trail Association and the North Country Trail Association the official designation of Dayton as “Trail Town”. The event will take place Friday, October 25, at 11:00am at Deeds Point MetroPark. The event is free and open to the public.

 

The North Country National Scenic Trail and the state-wide Buckeye Trail have partnered to improve access, strengthen interest in outdoor activities, and boost economic benefits by providing recognition to local businesses.  Together, they strive to build a community that values outdoor recreation for the health of the environment, the people, and the economy.

 

“We are so happy to have Dayton as the newest Trail Town along the North Country National Scenic Trail. Dayton is a great example of how an urban area can embrace a trail culture, providing a superb recreational resource for its citizens while benefiting it’s economy and the health of the environment,” said Andrea Ketchmark of North Country Trail Association. “This partnership will do great things for the Trail and for Dayton!”’

 

“Trail Towns” are built on a relationship between a municipality, the Trail, and its supportive volunteers.  For Dayton, the partnership will help to establish and nurture relationships that are mutually beneficial for trail users and the public-at-large within the City of Dayton and the surrounding area.

 

“We are ecstatic to be only the second city in Ohio to receive this designation,” said Dayton City Commissioner Nan Whaley. “This reinforces our ongoing efforts to make Dayton a vibrant community that realizes the importance of outdoor recreation.”

 

The Buckeye and North Country National Scenic Trails are co-aligned through the Dayton area, following the Mad River and Great Miami Recreation Trails.  The trails are marked by 2×6 inch blue blazes along the route.

 

The North Country Trail is the longest of the 11 National Scenic Trails and stretches 4,600 miles from North Dakota to New York and follows much of the Buckeye Trail as it wraps through Ohio.  Crossing seven northern states, the trail is not only a national asset, but it is accessible from many communities making it a valuable local recreational resource.

 

The Buckeye Trail is a 1,400 mile trail circumnavigating the state travelling through 48 counties.  Volunteers of the Miami Rivers Chapter of the Buckeye Trail Association help buck-creek-trail-daytonmaintain sections of these trails in the Dayton area, working closely with land managers from Five Rivers MetroParks and Miami Conservancy District.

 

“The Buckeye Trail Association is excited to partner with the community of Dayton, one of the largest and most supportive along Ohio’s State Trail,” shared Andrew Bashaw of the Buckeye Trail Association. “By working together we hope to promote this amenity to the quality of life around Dayton and encourage Dayton area residents to engage in using the Buckeye and North Country National Scenic Trail nearby and around Ohio!”

 

Working together to provide this premier off-road walking path is a partnership of trail volunteers, land managing agencies, the National Park Service, private foundations, civic organizations and businesses.

 

For more information about hiking trails throughout Montgomery County, visit MetroParks.org.

 

Filed Under: Hiking/Backpacking, The Featured Articles Tagged With: Buckeye Trail, Deeds Point MetroPark, five rivers metroparks, Miami Conservancy District, The North Country Trail

The 1880s Are Alive and Well in Dayton

September 13, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

mp1 Who knew Dayton had gone so retro?

We may have only recently entered the 21st century, but the turn of the 20th century is still alive here in Dayton. Thanks to the folks at Five Rivers MetroParks, you can experience what life was like in the 1880s right here in southwest Ohio.

 

Whoever said “what’s old is new again” obviously lived through the pain of watching fashion recirculate and stared in horrified amazement as his or her children begged and pleaded to purchase an outfit that eerily resembled an ensemble sent packing to Goodwill several decades ago. The same holds true in Dayton today. Know of anyone who knits from yarn they spun themselves and sews their own clothes? And would can their own vegetables for the winter and make their own cheese and soap? Or grow out their beards and curl up their moustaches and brew their own beer? You might refer to them as “hipsters,” but in the 1880s, they were just “people.”

 

That’s right; your great-great grandfather, who waxed his elegant moustache before snapping his suspenders and hopping on the seat of his fixed-gear bicycle, was a hipster before it was cool. Capitalizing on the re-emergence of the native hipster, Five Rivers MetroParks offers classes to teach you how to grow and pickle and can your own food. You can learn to make cheese and soap and even how to craft a microbrew. It’s all here. In Dayton. Again.

 

Grow your own

If you are passionate about growing your own food, MetroParks has programs that can help. mp2From tips about seed selection and planting to what to grow in the winter and even community gardening, Five Rivers MetroParks knows how to work with nature and wants to share that knowledge with you. Think you lack green thumbs? Maybe you just need the right instruction. Think about it – all those people living in the late 19th century didn’t simply wake up one day infused with vast botanical knowledge; they experimented, they failed a few times, but ultimately, they succeeded. They had to. The stakes were a little higher for pioneer who couldn’t simply shrug their shoulders and head to the nearest Wynn Dixie if they killed their sole source of sustenance.

 

Programs will take you from gardening newbie to horticulture diva and are available many of the facilities in the parks’ system including Wergerzyn Gardens, Cox Arboretum, Carriage Hill and many more. There’s even an annual gardening conference.

 

And as for resources, visit MetroParks.org for printable brochures with hundreds of tips, suggestions and helpful advice whether you’re starting out or trying grow your greenest garden yet.

 

It’s all here. At your MetroParks.

 

Down on the Farm

Food preservation in 2013: Adorable place settings and thoughtful gifts for friends and family. Food preservation in 1880: Avoiding starvation. True, modern living has provided us with the means to live comfortably. Heck, we could obtain essential nutrients from a powdered capsule if we want. But there’s no excitement, adventure or well-meaning intent from ingesting a pill, so people are looking back to the 1800s again, and Five Rivers MetroParks offers programs that will help you live more sustainably by preserving the food you just learned how to grow.

 

At Carriage Hill MetroPark, members of the canning club learn to preserve fruits and vegetables in an inexpensive and efficient way. Pickling classes are also available at Carriage Hill and Possum Creek MetroParks.

 

Brewing was an everyday part of life in the 1880s. Carriage Hill also offers “Making Small Beers” where participants discuss the actual brewing process and make some small beers using ingredients like apple, sorghum or maple.

 

Go Heirloom or Get What You Needmp3

The 2nd Street Market has all the programming you need to really go retro. With programs on handmade soap making, cheese making, canning and even sewing, knitting and quilting, you will find all of the homesteading skills you need. Check out the Heirloom Skills series of programs at MetroParks.org.

 

And if all this skill-building, growing, preserving and crafting sounds like too much for you, you are in luck. The vendors at the 2nd Street Market have done all the work for you.

 

You can find artisan bakers, canned vegetables or vegetables to can, knitted goods and home-spun yarn, fabrics to make your own clothes, fresh and organic meats like chicken and beef, handmade soaps and cheese, and so much more. More good news: By buying goods at the 2nd Street Market, you’re supporting local businesses and keeping your dollars at work right here in Dayton. That’s so 1880.

 

Great-great-grandpa had it right: Use resources wisely and make your own stuff. So go retro. Grow out a curly moustache. Take your horse and carriage (or ride your bike—fixie or otherwise) to a MetroParks facility today for everything you need to “live the dream of the 1890s.” [link to Portlandia]

Filed Under: Active Living, The Featured Articles Tagged With: Carriage Hill, Cox Arboretum, five rivers metroparks, Wergerzyn Gardens

Five Rivers MetroParks Celebrates Golden Anniversary

April 9, 2013 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Five Rivers MetroParks and local artists collaborated to create unique "hidden nature" pieces. Check out the full exhibit, including Marsha Pippenger's "Ode to King Billy," featured here, at the kickoff celebration on Wednesday, April 10, at the Schuster Center.

Five Rivers MetroParks and local artists collaborated to create unique “hidden nature” pieces. Check out the full exhibit, including Marsha Pippenger’s “Ode to King Billy,” featured here, at the kickoff celebration on Wednesday, April 10, at the Schuster Center.

On April 8, 1963, then-Probate Judge Neal Zimmers approved a petition to start a new park district in Dayton. Thanks to the efforts of a group of forward-thinking citizens concerned with quickly disappearing green space, efforts to protect the region’s natural heritage created what we know today as Five Rivers MetroParks.

For the past 50 years, Five Rivers MetroParks has provided outdoor experiences that inspire a personal connection with nature. These experiences are unique for each visitor — some come to the parks for their offerings in exciting outdoor adventure. Others visit as a get-away from harried urban life. Still others enjoy the reactions from their children or grandchildren watching them experience nature for the first time (or as if it were the first time). Echoing the individualized experience the parks offer, Five Rivers MetroParks has launched a “Hidden Nature” campaign, showcasing “secret” areas of the parks and glimpses into the history of the organization.

The activities kick off on Wednesday, April 10, with a public event at the Schuster Center in downtown Dayton. The event is from 5:30-7:30 p.m. and is free and open to the public; complimentary parking is available at the adjacent Arts Garage. MetroParks VIPs from the past and present will be on hand to share stories, and select archive materials also will be on display.

One component of the “Hidden Nature” campaign is an art exhibit. Local artists Amy Kollar Anderson, Bing Davis, Gretchen Durst Jacobs, Marsha Pippenger, and Ron Rollins all contributed nature-inspired artwork. To illustrate the spirit of the campaign, QR codes and telephone extensions have been hidden throughout each piece of the collection. Scan the QR code and enter the four-digit extension to receive a secret message about the parks and their history.

Another way to celebrate MetroParks’ golden anniversary is by trying to find all 50 Things to See and Do. Some items on the list may already be a family favorite, but the MetroParks staff is willing to bet that you can find several cool things you never knew about your parks.

Visit metroparks.org/history and take a peek back into the archives. Staff has been searching through boxes and boxes of photos, scrapbooks, old brochures, and more, in pursuit of some really cool relics from our past.

We hope the community has enjoyed helping us preserve and enhance our regional green spaces as much as we love providing these facilities every day. See you at the Schuster!

Filed Under: Active Living, Arts & Entertainment Tagged With: five rivers metroparks, Schuster Performing Arts Center

Annie Griffiths: A Camera, Two Kids and a Camel + TICKET CONTEST

March 8, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

ANNIE GRIFFITHSPhotographer ANNIE GRIFFITHS kicks off the second event of the 2012-2013 FIFTH THIRD BANK NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC LIVE SERIES on March 11 at 7p.m. in the historic Victoria Theatre. This thrilling event is presented by Victoria Theatre Association and Five Rivers MetroParks. Tickets are available at the Ticket Center Stage Box Office, by phone at (937) 228-3630, (888) 228-3630 or online at www.ticketcenterstage.com.

In this presentation, audiences get an inside look into the life of ANNIE GRIFFITHS and how she maintains balance and joy of creating a meaningful life. Griffiths will share stories about her international travel, the people she met, as well as show photographs that documented her experience. Her presentation of A CAMERA, TWO KIDS, AND A CAMEL along with her sense of humor and touching stories will excite the audience and give them an insider’s look into her life and world.

Along with her magazine work, ANNIE GRIFFITHS has a passion for photographing people and places in need around the world. She is founder and executive director of Ripple Effect Images, a team of journalists who document the climate change and its effects on people in need, especially women, and the programs that empower these women through the developing world. One of the first women photographers hired to work for National Geographic, ANNIE GRIFFITHS ‘ photographs have appeared in LIFE, Geo, Smithsonian, Stern, and Time, as well as her own two books, “ A Camera, Two Kids and a Camel” and “Simply Beautiful Photographs.”

Single tickets for the ANNIE GRIFFITHS lecture start at just $20 and are on sale now at the Ticket Center Stage Box Office, by phone at (937) 228-3630, toll-free (888) 228-3630 or online at www.ticketcenterstage.com. Ticket Center Stage Box Office hours are Monday – Friday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Saturday noon – 4 p.m., and two hours prior to each performance.

Filed Under: Arts & Entertainment Tagged With: five rivers metroparks, Victoria Theatre Association

Jane’s Best Bets (7/20 – 7/24)

July 19, 2011 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

As you may have figured out, in the summer, Dayton is a hot place to be…in more ways than one!  So get your hot self out of the house, take the air conditioned car, and enjoy some of these fun events, as things will be buzzing!

On Wednesday, enjoy $5 Bang Bang Shrimp at Bonefish Grill.  Wear your green and watch the Dragons play the Peoria Chiefs at Fifth Third Field.  Or wear your tap shoes and head to Archer’s in Centerville for their A.Y.O.B. where they will be “tapping” a new beer.  And in Kettering, watch The Fries Band as they put on a wonderful (and free!) show at the Fraze Pavilion.

On Thursday, take your kids out to Cooper Park for Story Hour, which is sponsored by Five Rivers MetroParks and the Dayton Metro Library.  Enjoy a performance by the Muse Machine as well as a delicious lunch at the Dayton Woman’s Club.  If you work downtown, then consider heading to Courthouse Square during your lunch hour for The Square Is Where… McGovern Ceili Dancers.  At El Rancho Grande, enjoy 1/2 price Ladies Night.  Or sing your heart out at Champps for Karaoke Thursday.

On Friday, head to RiverScape for their Try Kayaking event, which is completely free!  If you’re a kayaking newbie, it’s definitely something worth checking out.  At Victoria Theatre, enjoy their Michelob Ultra Cool Film Series where the movie One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest will be shown.  If you’re frequently late, be sure to arrive early this time to enjoy the Cool Film Series Beer Tasting!  At Oregon Express, enjoy Half-Price Happy Hour Pizzas, which are absolutely delicious.  It’s mid-summer, so consider watching A Midsummer Night’s Dream presented by Free Shakespeare at Antioch Amphitheater.  Or watch ‘The Sound of Music’ at Epiphany Lutheran Church.  And if you’re a macho man and would prefer to be at a sporting event, then head to Fifth-Third Field as the Dragons take on the Peoria Chiefs.

On Saturday, you will not want to miss the annual Dayton Air Show.  If you enjoyed learning about kayaking and didn’t flip out like I did when I went kayaking the last time (literally!), then consider renting a kayak at RiverScape and Ride the River.  Take the entire family to the Warren County “Fair” if you appreciate equality.  At the Dayton Art Institute, they will be having Sound Bites: Short Talks About Art.  One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest will still be shown as part of the Michelob Ultra Cool Films Series at Victoria Theatre.  Again, they will have the Cool Films Series Beer Tasting prior to the show.  Please don’t drink too much beforehand or you may actually feel like you’re going cuckoo during the movie.  If you would rather catch a live performance, then check out ‘The Sound of Music’at Epiphany Lutheran Church.  Join Noah and two of each kind of animal at RiverScape as part of their Free Summer Concert Series featuring The Ark Band.  And if you don’t feel like things are buzzing around town, then you’ll just have to go over to Fifth Third Field to see the Dragons take on the Burlington Bees.

On Sunday, you will still be able to enjoy the Dayton Air Show.  At Antoich Amphitheater, watch A Midsummer Night’s Dream…just don’t fall asleep because that would be rude.  You can also listen to music at Miamisburg’s Riverfront Park with their Pizzazz in the Park Concert Series featuring Phat Like Dad or at Centerville’s Stubbs Amphitheater as The Lebanon Grand Opry House Band will be performing.  And finally, don’t miss your opportunity to get a buzz at Fifth Third Field as the Dragons once again play the Burlington Bees…with some buzzing really going on at the plaza as part of their Charity Cuts!

And now it’s time for the Dumb Joke of the Week. Drum roll please…

Where does a bee sit?  On his bee-hind.

These are just a few best bets from the DMM Calendar.  There are plenty more events listed there, so if you haven’t, I encourage you to check it out today!  Also, if you have an event to share or promote, please submit it– it’s great marketing and better yet, it’s FREE!  And finally, if you have a dumb joke to share, I’m all ears!

Have a great week Dayton!

Filed Under: DMM's Best Bets, The Featured Articles Tagged With: Archer’s, Cooper Park, dayton air show, Dayton Dragons, dayton metro library, five rivers metroparks, Fraze Pavilion, Michelob Ultra Cool Film Series, Muse Machine, The Fries Band, Victoria Theatre, Warren County Fair

Not an auspicious start…

May 30, 2011 By Megan Cooper 6 Comments

Before I start my car-less adventure (or as a friend read: careless adventure), I decided to practice. With a final destination less than three miles from my home and a beautiful sunny sky, testing out the newly prepped bike was a great idea.

I was meeting friends for one of those fun Dayton weekend festivals, so I didn’t have to be dressed up, but I was going for a certain level above shorts & t-shirt. So, fun strappy heels (with a solid back so they don’t fall off), crops and a blouse was selected. This was the perfect outfit for the destination as well as a short spring-time ride through a lovely local park.

Hills and Dales Park picture from Five Rivers MetroParks Web site

However, that short spring-time ride through that lovely park (aptly named HILLS and Dales) was a much larger challenge that I expected. Dear Lord, this must be why cycling is a sport!  The chain popped off due to my crazy gear-shifting in attempts to get up the first hill. A couple times (I’m ashamed to admit), I got off the bike and walked to the top of a hill. And of course, when I got where I was going, the sturdy bike lock that has been in the garage for over a year proved so sturdy that it was rusted shut. This was not the auspicious start to enjoying urban life on a bike.

What did I learn during this practice trip? Since I’m just days away from my week sans car (June 1 seemed so far away when I pitched this idea in February), I’m noting some important details. I’ll have to bring a bag along with me to hold some better shoes and perhaps a change of clothes. And I better check my route before I hop on that bike to make sure I’m avoiding the major hills (notice the lil’ caret like shapes, yup – HILLS).  And I’ll be buying a new bike lock.

Why do I share this embarrassment? Not because I want to dissuade anyone from embarking on a similar adventure, but rather because it demonstrates that even with excitement and research, nothing prepares you like experience. I’m done doing my homework about how this is going to work; I’m just going to dive in and find out.  I’m going to have more ridiculous failures like this, but at least they’ll only happen once. And if they happen to me, maybe they don’t have to happen to you.

Stay tuned for more successes and tragedies as I tackle the challenge of Driving Less and Living More. Next time you hear from me, I will officially be sans car. And (please), if you have any recommendations on things that work for you or pitfalls I should avoid, share your insights in the comments. Resources that will make this easier are always welcome!

Filed Under: Community Tagged With: bike friendly, cycling, five rivers metroparks

Jane’s Best Bets (2/16 – 2/20)

February 15, 2011 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

You may or may not have been with the love of your life this Valentine’s Day, but hopefully it was a great one!  Guys…now with the pressure off, hopefully you’ll be able to relax and have some fun at some of these events!

On Wednesday, all you writers can head to Books & Co. for their Second Sunday Free Writers’ Workshop.  Is your bike just collecting dust in the garage or are you going to try cycling for the first time?  If so, you’ll want to participate in Five Rivers MetroParks’ Introduction to Bicycle Maintenance.  It may not be such a secret that this is going on, but over at Wiley’s, you will be able to see the opening night of Dirty Little Secret, which is co-presented by DaytonMostMetro.com’s very own J.T. Ryder.  (There is also a DMM article on this show, so if interested, check out the following link!)  And finally, for some good beer, check out the Sam Adams Beer Samplingat Heathers Coffee & Café or Green Flash Brewing Beer Tasting at The Caroline.

On Thursday, if you’re in the doghouse because you totally forgot about Valentine’s Day, try to make it up to your significant other by arranging flowers for him/her at PNC 2nd Street Market as part of February Flowers.  Or take that special someone to Spinoza’s for their Dinner and a Movie Package.  Even if your boyfriend’s/husband’s name is Scott, Fred, or Sam, you can still have a Romantic Dinner for 2 at Christopher’s and not get into trouble.  Over at Thai 9, attend their Tapping Firkin of Bell’s Hopslamand eat some of their delicious food.  I LOVE that their food can accommodate a diverse group of people in terms of spice preferences…and they don’t make you feel badly if you order a level zero like me!  Over at Hara Arena, catch the Dayton Gems as they take on the Quad City Mallards.  Even though it may be a little too cold to have an outdoor picnic, you can see the Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award–winning play, Picnic at Wright State.  Also, if you love live music, head to South Park Tavern to see Ryan Roth and the Grand Plan with Seryn.

On Friday, if you feel like having a home cooked meal but are lacking Rachael Ray’s or Emeril’s cooking genes, head to the Dorothy Lane Market in Springboro for their  DLM Family Style Dinner.  Down in the city (RiverScape), head to Gone Country, where you will be able to ice skate while listening to country music.  All you graffiti artist wannabes should branch out to Olive for their Graffiti Party.  Hopefully you are fortunate to have a ticket to the sold out 6th Annual Valentine’s Dance for Special Wishat the Schuster Center.  If not, I encourage you to support this great cause by purchasing raffle tickets or making a donation.  I know a child whose wish was sponsored by Special Wish and I am so impressed by the work that they do!  If you prefer to have dinner and see a show all in the same place, go to the Spaghetti Warehouse for their Mayhem & Mystery Dinner Theatre ‘Tragedy in the Theater’.  Head to Cedarville University to watch High School Musicians Showcase Their Talent.  And for additional theater options, be sure to get your ticket to Fat Pig at the Dayton Theatre Guild, Picnic at Wright State, or The Foreigner at Sinclair.

On Saturday, start your day off at the Yellow Springs Winter Farmer’s Market.  If you became engaged on Valentine’s Day, then you’ll want to head to the DRC Bridal Show.  For some live music, go to the University of Dayton for their Jazz Ensemble, Shiloh Church for the Miami Valley Symphony Orchestra Concert, or Omega Baptist Church for their Omega Black History Celebration: Song, Dance & Praise.  However, if you prefer to add a little “boogie-ing” to your music (the dancing kind, not the nose kind), check out the band Crooked Style at Talegators or head to Alex’s to listen to the band Off the Hook.  Some theater options for Saturday include Fat Pig at the Dayton Theatre Guild, Forbidden Broadway: Dances with the Stars at Victoria Theatre, Picnic at Wright State, and The Foreigner at Sinclair.  I know it’s not a Friday, but you will still be able to join in the fun and food at the Carroll High School – Carrolleer Fish Fry.  And finally, be sure to check out the UD Flyers as they take on Duquesne…we are definitely due for a victory!

On Sunday, start your day off right by eating great food and supporting a great cause as part of the Savor Your Sunday & Support Stivers event at Coco’s Bistro.  Some musical options include Afternoon Musicales at the Dayton Art Institute, the Dayton Philharmonic’s The Symphonic Beethoven at the Dayton Masonic Center, the University of Dayton Jazz Band’sperformance at the University of Dayton, and Omega Black History Celebration: Song, Dance & Praiseat Omega Baptist Church.  At the Dayton Marriott, all you brides will want to attend The Dayton Bridal Expo.  Those poor guys…I have yet to hear about a Groom Expo or Groom Show!   Or perhaps they might actually be the fortunate ones because it gets them off the hook!  Over at RiverScape, participate in Fundamentals of Skating if you have yet to learn how to skate.  Also, some Sunday theater options include Fat Pig at the Dayton Theatre Guild, The Foreignerat Sinclair, and Picnic at Wright State University.  And finally, if you are stressed out and don’t know what to do about it, make plans to attend the Introduction to Mindful Meditation Workshop at Practice Yoga on Fifth.

And now it’s time for the Dumb Joke of the Week.  Drum roll please…

The wise never marry…and when they marry they become otherwise.

These are just a few best bets from the DMM Calendar.  There are plenty more events listed there, so if you haven’t, I encourage you to check it out today!  Also, if you have an event to share or promote, please submit it– it’s great marketing and better yet, it’s FREE!  And finally, if you have a dumb joke to share, I’m all ears!

Have a great week Dayton!

Filed Under: DMM's Best Bets, The Featured Articles Tagged With: Coco's Bistro, Crooked Style, dayton theatre guild, Dorothy Lane Market, DRC Bridal Show, Fish Fry, five rivers metroparks, Off the Hook, PNC 2nd Street Market, Special Wish Valentine's Dance, Support Stivers, Thai 9, Things to do in Dayton, UD Flyers

Jane’s Best Bets (1/5 – 1/9)

January 5, 2011 By Dayton937 2 Comments

Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

HAPPY NEW YEAR!  I hope that 2011 has many great things in store for all of you!  Hopefully some of these events can help to make it that way!

On Wednesday, for a tasty dinner at a reasonable price, head to the Bonefish Grill for Bang Bang Shrimp Wednesdays, Sammy’s El Pueblo for their Fajita Dinner for 2 for $19.99, or Champps for their 9.99 Fajitas.  If you really wanted to eat fajitas and save money, you should go to Champps since you could get two fajita dinners for a whole penny cheaper…just sayin’.  Help promote the Five Rivers MetroParks’ Outdoor Recreation Department by attending their Volunteer: Street Tream Training.  And if you are environmentally conscious, attend the Environmental Film Series: End of the Line at Cox Arboretum…which is absolutely free!

On Thursday, enjoy a glass or two of wine along with your dinner at the delicious Coco’s Bistro where they have 1/2 Price Wine Bottles.  If you are in downtown Miamisburg, head to TJ Chumps for their Three Course Thursday-All Day and/or A Taste of Wine (which is right across the street) for their Wine Tasting.  Sorry, I may not be helping your New Year’s resolution to lose weight.  And in the evening, all you Dancing with the Stars fans will want to see Mark Ballas as he performs at McGuffy’s.

On Friday, after perhaps your first full week of working in a little while, head downtown for the First Friday Art Hop!  If someone asks you about the Riverscape ice rink, say “I’ll be there” so that you can enjoy the thrill of ice skating as part of the King of Pop Skate.  For a different style of music, join the Dayton Philharmonic as they perform ‘Titanic Brahms, Vibrant Liebermann’ at the Schuster Center.  Over at the Dayton Theatre Guild, see the show Ravenscroft.  And finally, up in Yellow Springs, head to Emporium Wines/Underdog Café for a Wine Tasting accompanied by live music.

On Saturday, head to the Yellow Springs Winter Farmer’s Market – just don’t tell any secrets because remember…a corn has ears!  While you’re there, bring some items that will help you de-clutter your house, items you would like to share with others, or an unwanted Christmas gift as part of the Really Really Free Market at Emporium Wines/Underdog Café in Yellow Springs.  I have never participated in anything like this, but it sounds like an awesome idea!  For more info, check out this link.  If you got engaged over the holidays and are trying to navigate your ways through all the wedding planning, head to the Dayton Bridal Expo at the Dayton Convention Center.  With the amount of food allergies on the rise, consider attending Dorothy Lane Market’s Gluten-Free Food Lovers’ Club: How to eat your way throughout the year.  And in the evening if you are downtown, head to RiverScape for their Star-Late Skate, the Dayton Theatre Guild for Ravenscroft, or the Schuster Center for ‘Titanic Brahms, Vibrant Liebermann’.  And if you decide to head over to McGuffy’s, you’ll be swinging, sliding, and perhaps doing a little bit of monkey barring as the 90s band Marcy Playground performs.

On Sunday, chase those winter blues away by heading to the Mu Crew Pool Party at the Holiday Inn Dayton Mall.  Over at the Dayton Art Institute, participate in the two T’s – Tour and Tea.  If you love to write, get a little help by heading over to Books & Co. for their Second Sunday Free Writers’ Workshop.  And finally, over at the Dayton Theatre Guild, if you haven’t already done so, be sure to check out Ravenscroft.

And now it’s time for the Dumb Joke of the Week. Drum roll please…

“Doctor!  Something’s wrong!  I’m shrinking!”

“Take it easy, sir.  You’ll just have to be a little patient.”

These are just a few best bets from the DMM Calendar.  There are plenty more events listed there, so if you haven’t, I encourage you to check it out today!  Also, if you have an event to share or promote, please submit it– it’s great marketing and better yet, it’s FREE!  And finally, if you have a dumb joke to share, I’m all ears!

Have a great week Dayton!

Filed Under: DMM's Best Bets Tagged With: a taste of wine, Bang Bang Shrimp Wednesdays, Bonefish Grill, Books & Co., Champps, Coco's Bistro, Cox Arboretum, Dayton Bridal Expo, Dayton Philharmonic, dayton theatre guild, Dorothy Lane Market, Emporium Wines, First Friday, five rivers metroparks, McGuffy's, Really Really Free Market, Sammy's El Pueblo, TJ Chumps

Meet Your MetroParks

November 3, 2010 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

As a former journalist, the election season has always been an exciting time for me, but when I took up my mantle with Five Rivers MetroParks, I would be on the other side of the proverbial punch card. No longer simply an observer, I kicked off my new career with a tall order—volunteer with the MetroParks levy campaign. Through those months of phone calls and canvassing, I discovered that many Dayton area residents knew of the MetroParks closest to their home, but weren’t aware of the total number of parks, or the number of acres we protect. I thought it would be appropriate today to give you a little overview of each of our facilities.

  • Aullwood Garden MetroPark: This 31-acre garden situated on the edge of Englewood MetroPark is the former home of John and Marie Aull, whose world-wide travels inspired this luxurious shade garden. Lenten roses and other choice shade plants are featured at this estate garden.
  • Carriage Hill MetroPark: Take a trip back in time at this preserved 1880s historical farm.

    Photo by RA Makley: Check out the Riding Center at Carriage Hill MetroPark. Weekend trail and pony rides start again in April!

    Children love to learn about agricultural and professional skills popular during the turn of the 20thCentury. This 900-acre park, located in Huber Heights, also offers hiking and equestrian trails as well as fishing ponds, a 14-acre lake, and the nearby Carriage Hill Riding Center, where trail and pony rides are offered April through October.

  • Cox Arboretum MetroPark: Mature forests populate this 189-acre park south of Dayton near Moraine and Miamisburg, along with diverse gardens, such as the Edible Landscape Garden and the Clematis Arbor. The Butterfly House is a favorite summertime destination to view native butterflies and moths in various stages of metamorphosis.
  • Deeds Point MetroPark: The landscape beds this park perched downtown along the Great Miami River offer visitors a floral garden paradise in an urban setting.
  • Eastwood MetroPark: Paddle in the 185-acre lake, ride the Mad River bikeway, fish in the lagoon or river or hike 3 miles of wooded and open meadow trails in this park just off State Route 4 near Riverside. Both the Buckeye and North Country National Scenic trails run through this park. This is the site of the annual GearFest recreation celebration, which takes place in the fall.
  • Englewood MetroPark: The potential for recreation is endless in this 1,900-acre park. Choose from 12 miles

    Enjoy 18 holes of disc golf at Englewood MetroPark.

    of scenic trails, 3.5 miles of bridle trails, paddling on the Stillwater River, and great spots for fishing. This park also boasts a unique feature—an 18-hole disc golf course. Disc golf is an easy-to-learn activity that involves throwing flying discs into a “basket” situated a distance from the starting point.

  • Germantown MetroPark: The size, quality and age of the woodlands make this 1,665-acre park the most diverse of the natural areas. The park also contains large open grasslands, cedar glades and dry hillside prairies. One popular weekend attraction (particularly for birders) is the Nature Center with its Window on Wildlife.
  • Hills & Dales MetroPark: This Olmsted-designed park has 63 acres of native plants and landscaped areas situated in the crux of Kettering, Oakwood and Dayton. Recently renovated to restore its former beauty, this park boasts 2 miles of wooded trails, including the Adirondack boardwalk that gives visitors a tour of the wetlands.
  • Huffman MetroPark: One of the most prominent amenities of this park located just east of Wright-Patterson Air Force Base is MoMBA, the MetroParks Mountain Biking Area. About 8 miles of track snake their way through this wooded sub-facility. MoMBA’s trails are constructed to help the novice gain mountain biking confidence and challenge the most experienced rider.
  • Island MetroPark: Towering sycamore and cottonwood trees lend shade to those seeking respite from the bustling city in this 33-acre park, located just north of downtown Dayton. Landscaped beds, a seasonal water playground, picnic shelters and the historic bandshell are other hallmarks of this park.
  • PNC 2nd Street Market: Pick up farm-fresh produce, meats,cheeses, eggs and dry goods as well as flowers, wine, jewelry, soaps,gifts and more. The Market highlights the growers, producers and

    Find farm-fresh produce at the PNC 2nd Street Market

    artisans we have right here in the greater Dayton region. Regular hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday and Fridays, and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays.

  • Possum Creek MetroPark: Head southwest of downtown Dayton to find this 556-acre park and enjoy its many amenities, such as Polly Possum’s Math Farm, fishing ponds, historic Argonne Forest, 100-plus-acre planted prairies and the sustainable farm.
  • RiverScape MetroPark: Downtown Dayton’s favorite hangout has become an indelible icon with its fountains and renovated amenities. The covered pavilion provides shade for summer concert and festival-goers in the summer and doubles as an outdoor skating rink in the winter. Cyclists who commute or ride for recreation have welcomed the new bike hub. Children can splash around in the interactive fountains or get a brief history on Dayton’s innovative past while traveling the Dayton Inventor’s River Walk.
  • Sugarcreek MetroPark: This diverse area—with all stages of succession, mature forests, a trio of 500-year old white oaks, varied topography, a planted prairie, meadows and scenic Sugar Creek—is located near the Bellbrook area. Its trails are popular among trail runners, dog walkers and equestrians.
  • Sunrise MetroPark: The walkways of this tiny urban oasis, conveniently located just north of downtown Dayton, are filled with stunning views of the city’s skyline. Prairie plantings and wildflowers draw in wildlife from the adjacent river habitat, and make the park a serene spot for relaxing. Catch a glimpse of the large and graceful blue herons that frequent the area.
  • Taylorsville MetroPark: There’s no shortage of history or nature to encounter along this 1,300-acre park’s 13 miles of trails, nestled just outside Vandalia. Visitors also can link up with the Buckeye and North Country

    Have you visited Sunderland Falls at Taylorsville MetroPark?

    trails. The Buckeye Trail completely encircles Ohio and is over 1,200 miles long. The North Country Trailextends into seven states and will be the longest continuous hiking trail in the United States when completed.

  • Twin Creek MetroPark: This 1,000-acre park situated in the southwest corner of Montgomery County is home to 20 miles of hiking trails, 7 miles of equestrian trails, and ample access to the Twin Creek, one of Ohio’s cleanest waterways. Hike the Twin Valley Trail, a 22-mile backpacking trail connecting Twin Creek and Germantown MetroParks.
  • Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark: With about eight different formal garden areas, this north Dayton park is a haven for plant lovers, featuring something in bloom nearly year-round. The Children’s Discovery Garden here offers fun and learning through the joy of gardening. Visitors can also enjoy paved bikeways and the Marie Aull Nature Trail.
  • Wesleyan MetroPark: Home to Adventure Central, a program aimed at getting urban youth engaged in the outdoors, this 55-acre park offers its west Dayton neighbors a place to enjoy nature, whether hiking on 1.5 miles of trail, cycling along the Wolf Creek Bikeway, playing on the playground equipment or fishing in Wolf Creek.

Now that you know a little bit about each park and its respective subfacilities, plan your next adventure today.

Filed Under: Active Living, The Featured Articles Tagged With: active, activity, Aullwood, Carriage Hill, children, Cox Arboretum, Dayton, Deed's, Eastwood, Englewood, family, five rivers metroparks, Germantown, Hills & Dales, nature, outside, Park, PNC 2nd Street Market, Possum Creek, riverscape, Sugarcreek, Sunrise, Taylorsville, Twin Creek, Wegerzyn Gardens, Wesleyan, wildlife

Trying to ride a century (and coming up 14 miles short)

October 28, 2010 By Dayton937 3 Comments

Looking south down the trail in Taylorsville Metropark, around 70ish miles

No need for suspense: I tried, and failed, to ride my first century earlier this month. “Century” — that’s cyclist’s parlance for riding 100 miles. I learned that this summer. But at 86 miles, I laid on a bench in Wegerzyn Gardens and called my wife for a ride home.

I know. I’m not happy about it either. But that’s the way it ended. And the ride was beautiful.

I started north from my home near Carillon Park to downtown. It was cold, in the 40s, but the forecast said it would climb to 80 degrees. That meant layers. I set off with some snacks and Gatorade in my panniers, as well as some lighter shirts to change into once it got warm.

Mistake #1: Failed to lubricate my moving parts before I left. Duh.

My tires were pumped, but I hadn’t had a chance to lubricate my wheels and gears. Honestly, I’d been pretty busy for several days and had decided at the last minute to try the century. The warm season was waning, it was the first weekend in October, and I thought if I didn’t do it that day, I’d have to wait until next year.

I also never seriously considered the possibility I wouldn’t make it. After all, earlier this year, I’d ridden 88 miles from home to Sawyer Point in Cincinnati back in June and felt good when I arrived.

Mistake #2: Had no idea I was getting sick.

Truth be told, I wasn’t feeling great that morning. Sluggish. Lacking energy. I thought I was just tired from my busy days, that if I started riding I’d get my energy. What I didn’t understand was that I was actually getting sick, that I’d have a fever and all sorts of digestive problems for the next few days.

My planned route was pretty simple:

  • North from my house downtown on the Great Miami River Recreation Trail.
  • Pick up the Stillwater Recreation Trail at Triangle Park and ride it to Taylorsville Metropark.
  • From Taylorsville Metropark, keep going north — through Tipp City, Troy, Piqua and finally Sidney. It would take me off and on new (to me) northern sections of the Great Miami River Recreation Trail.
  • In Sidney, where I’d hit 50 miles, I’d turn around and ride downstream home.

The farthest north I’d been before was the “Welcome to Tadmor” sign north of Taylorsville Dam, so riding further to Kyle Park in Tipp City was new territory. I had to cut over on a road for about 2.5 miles because the trail doesn’t connect, though on the east side of the road it looked like someone might be doing some work to build one. Fingers crossed that’s so. If you’re looking for directions, the trail ends at Old Springfield Road. Take that right then a very quick left onto Old Canal Road, which takes you into Kyle Park.

Kyle Park is big and open. The morning I was there, the soccer fields were full of kids playing games, their parents in lawn chairs cheering on the sidelines. Very idyllic if you go for that sort of thing. (I do.)

The trail wrapped around the fields and continued north. One treat was watching a biplane take off from a small airport.

The trail north from Kyle’s Park brought me into Troy, where what looked like a high school cross-country team jogged along the river past what I assumed was Troy’s town hall.

North of Troy, I had to hop on more roads before picking up another section of trail. A friend had scribbled directions for me, and they were flawless.

Here’s what I did: The bike trail made a dead end at a cemetery. I turned left (north) onto Troy-Sidney Road (County Highway 14) and rode on that road up to a five-way stop. Yes, five-way. There, I turned left onto Piqua-Troy Road (County Highway 15). After 2.5 miles, I crossed over I-75 and turned left onto Peterson.

Before I continue, let me pause to say what a pleasure these roads were. Gentle rolling hills. Beautiful farms. Ridiculously courteous drivers. One must’ve ridden behind me half a mile because the twists, turns and hills made it hard to see ahead and pass safely without risking having to cut into me.

Back to the directions, and here’s where they get weird. My direction-giving friend had told me that on Peterson, just before you go over a bridge, there’s a gravel trail to your right. Get off your bike and walk it into the woods, she said. You’ll be sure you’re going the wrong way, but the trail picks back up about 50 yards inside the woods.

I bet this is where she lures all her victims, I thought.

But she was exactly right. And this stretch of trail was just gorgeous. Absolutely beautiful. It was early October, and the trees were in full glory. Everything was lush and crisp, and I spent miles listening to nothing more than the crunch of leaves under my tires.

Then I arrived in Piqua. If you have a boy under the age of 15 or so, you might hear “Piqua” and think “underwear.” Maybe you don’t know why. Piqua, you see, is the setting for the hilarious Captain Underpants children’s books. I have no idea whether the city is proud of that, but I was tickled to finally see the place. As I rode along the river, I even stopped under Piqua’s water tower to take a picture for my 10-year-old, a big Capt. UP fan.

Little did I know, Piqua would be my undoing.

Mistake #3: Didn’t know my whole route.

So, I mentioned this friend who gave directions. The farthest north she’d gone? Piqua. As I rode, I somehow got it into my head that I could stay on the trail all of the way to Sidney. My directions ran out. There must be only trail ahead.

A fact about Piqua’s bike trails: If you ride them right, they make a giant loop.

A fact about me: I have no sense of cardinal directions. Some people know when they’re going north or east or south. I just know if I’m going forward or backward, left or right.

The Piqua loop, a combination of the blue and green lines

I rode forward in Piqua, ever forward, until at one point I saw a flag and a Cracker Barrel sign ahead on a hill. Geez, I thought, that looks just like ones I passed a little bit ago. Then I rounded the bend and saw the Piqua water tower again, the one I’d stopped to photograph.

I did what I’ll call the Piqua loop. Somehow I’d made a huge circle. And since I didn’t know where I’d gone wrong, I wasn’t sure how to get off it. I did know there was a small park and some benches ahead. I rode up and pulled over. My odometer read 49 miles, and, it should be said, I felt very drained. I changed into a lighter shirt and watched a river laze by as I ate an apple and considered my options.

Since the point was a century, not Sidney, I decided to turn around to try to figure out how to get off the loop. That turned out not to be hard. As I rode south along the river (the loop around Piqua, it should be said, was lovely, especially a stretch along what looked to be a canal), I found my mistake and rode back over an old train bridge I’d taken on the way in.

Then I went south back the way I came with a math problem to solve. I knew that since I’d turned around rather than retaken the loop, I wouldn’t double my miles on the way back. My problem was that I didn’t know how far off I’d be. My plan was to ride all the way to Triangle Park and, rather than continue downtown, take a right and add a few miles by riding to Wegerzyn before going home.

I had another problem: I was feeling very, very drained at this point. That’s two “verys.” For me, that’s a lot.

Mistake #4: Brought too much Gatorade, too little water.

At 10 p.m. or so the night before, I had run out to the grocery store to get a few things to hold me over during the ride. Looking over drinks, I decided to get some Gatorade. Gatorade, I reasoned, was water plus. Plus flavor. Plus nutrients. Plus electrolytes.

Admission: I have no idea what electrolytes are. I think elves might make them.

What I do know is that the more Gatorade I drank, the more I craved water. And I couldn’t find any along the route. I kept drinking Gatorade and counting the miles, feeling completely parched. I struggled to go 10 miles between breaks.

I finally found some water in a shelter in Kyle Park in Tipp City, but it tasted really disgusting. Maybe my taste buds were just off at this point, but I couldn’t make myself drink it. I sat in the shelter and did more math in my head. If memory serves, I was around the 70-mile mark. I felt like I might come up as many as 13 miles short if I kept riding home. Diverting my route to Wegerzyn might add three or four at most. I started contemplating other ways to divert my route. Nothing bearable came to mind.

I hopped back on and continued riding, and somewhere between Kyle Park and Taylorsville Metropark, I started for the first time to contemplate seriously the possibility that I might not make it. That I might quit. It was depressing.

I won’t drag it out. I decided that I’d ride to Wegerzyn and see where I was at. My body felt terrible, and I was miserable. I wasn’t having any fun.

On the other hand, I kept telling myself, if you can ride 80-something miles, you can tough through to 100. You’re close. Don’t quit. If you don’t finish now, you won’t have another chance until spring. You’ll think about it all winter.

By the time I rode into Wegerzyn, I’d been riding a little more than six hours. My odometer read only 86 miles. I would have to ride past home to West Carrollton then back to make it. I know it doesn’t sound like much, but I knew that meant it was over. I wasn’t riding that far past home only to turn around and ride upstream into the wind.

I parked my bike and laid down on a bench for a few minutes. A group of laughing and screaming kids kept running by as I gathered the energy to pull my phone from my pocket and call my wife and ask for a ride home. Then I waited.

It just wasn’t my day.

Extra: Here’s a gallery of photos from the ride.

Filed Under: Cycling Tagged With: bicycling, century ride, cycling, five rivers metroparks, Great Miami River Recreation Trail, Still Water Recreation Trail, Wegerzyn Gardens

DIY, Riverscape-style

August 8, 2010 By Dayton937 1 Comment

A century ago, Orville and Wilbur Wright looked at their bicycles and said, “I think we might be able to fly these things.”

Today, some hearty fellow Daytonians followed in their footsteps, sort of. They looked at piles of debris and said, “I think I can row this.”

And then they tried.

At Riverscape, in the shadow of the Engineers Club and a statue of the Wright Brothers taking flight, we watched do-it-youselfers take part in Dayton’s Outrageous River Derby. If I heard emcee Commodore Jim Bucher of WDTN Channel 2 correctly, this was the 14th one.

But it was my first, and it turned out to be a beautiful day to hang out by the river for some silly fun. The gist of the event is this: Make a raft, any kind of raft, get it in the river, and race it down the river a hundred yards or so. Try not to sink.

Themes included a Lady Gaga boudoir and an Abe Lincoln who looked suspiciously like a plastic Jesus with an electrical tape beard. A last-minute entry was made of a pipe frame, cardboard, saran wrap and duct tape.

Was there lots of duct tape, you ask?

Did Wilbur wear a funny hat?

The paddle prizes didn’t go only to the swift. The judging panel included an engineer, some student artists from Stivers and K-12 gallery, who gave out prizes in categories like creativity and most-likely-to-sink before the race even started. I can’t tell you who won the superlatives because we’d taken a pause from the sun to get snacks for our boys.

Poor Man's Kayak, the derby winner

But then again, I can tell you who won: Everyone there because it was just goofy fun, a gorgeous blue sky, a soft breeze and a great time at Riverscape.

After we downed our snacks, we sat at the river’s edge and watched the race. Honest Abe got a little dishonest help from someone pushing, and Lady Gaga was surprisingly strong. What I mean by that is that I still have no idea how she stayed afloat.

But they finished second and third. The race went to Poor Man’s Kayak, which turned out to be a fine kayak indeed, held aloft by rows and rows of one-liter soda bottles on its underside and sped along by a very able rower with a great sense of balance.

I’m not sure we’d have made Orville and Wilbur proud, but I have no doubt our hometown ingenuity would’ve made them laugh.

Filed Under: Canoeing/Kayaking Tagged With: Abraham Lincoln, Downtown Dayton, Events, five rivers metroparks, Jim Bucher, Lady GaGa, outrageous river derby, riverscape, Things to Do

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Community Clothing Swap

10:30 am
Russ Nature Reserve

Color Our World – The Art of Stories

1:00 pm
Dayton Metro Library - Huber Heights Branch

Rolling Easy

5:00 pm
Yellow Springs Brewery

$3 Burger Night

5:00 pm
Bullwinkle's Top Hat Bistro

Mommy and Me Yoga

6:00 pm
The Well: A Center for Women's Wellness

Monday Trivia Night

6:30 pm
The Pub

Chess Club!

6:30 pm
Blind Bob's Bar

LGBT AA group

7:00 pm
Greater Dayton LGBT Center

Justin’s LOTD Scotch Doubles Pool Tournament

7:30 pm
Miami Valley Sports Bar

Monday Night Laughs!

8:00 pm
Oregon Express
+ 2 More

Schmidt’s Sausage Truck

12:00 pm
O Reilly Auto Parts

Next Up Taste & Grill

12:30 pm
Dillon's Tavern

Taste of Northmont

1:00 pm
Northmont

Bargain Tuesday: $6.50 Movie Day

2:30 pm
The Neon

Cloud Park Food Truck Rally

4:00 pm
Thomas Cloud Park

Lazy Baker Pizza Maker

5:00 pm
Yellow Springs Brewery

Patio Pounders

5:00 pm
Lily's Dayton

Tai Chi & Qigong at the River

6:00 pm
RiverScape MetroPark

Pub-Lit at Brixx

7:00 pm
Brixx Ice Company

Trivia with Rob

7:00 pm
The Phone Booth Lounge

Progressive Euchre Tournament

7:00 pm
Star City Brewing Company
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ILLYS Fire Pizza

9:45 am
Amazon Fulfillment Center

Fairborn Farmers Market

10:00 am
Fairborn Farmers Market

Trotwood Community Market (presented by American Legion Post 613)

3:00 pm
Old Salem Mall

Miamisburg Farmers Market

3:00 pm
Miamisburg Christian Church

What the Taco?!

5:00 pm
The Market

Yoga – Arcade Arts & Wellness

5:30 pm
Dayton Arcade

Skeeball Tournament

7:00 pm
On Par Entertainment

Trivia Night at Alematic

7:00 pm
Alematic Artisan Ales

Live Trivia

7:00 pm
Star City Brewing Company
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Lebanon Farmers Market

4:00 pm
Bicentennial Park

3rd Annual Crab Rangoon Eating Contest

5:00 pm
Loose Ends Brewing

Grapes & Groves

5:00 pm
Heather's Coffee & Cafe

Middletown July 3rd Fireworks + Festival

5:00 pm
Smith Park

Centerville Americana Festival

5:00 pm
Benham's Grove

Member’s Group Crit Night

5:30 pm
The Contemporary Dayton

Matilda: The Musical

6:00 pm
La Comedia

Open Collage Night

6:00 pm
The Contemporary Dayton

Vandalia Star Spangled Celebration

6:00 pm
Vandalia Rec Center

Fun Trivia! Prizes!

7:00 pm
Bock Family Brewing

Coral Moons

7:00 pm
Levitt Pavilion

THE RETURN OF THE LIVING DEAD

7:30 pm
The Neon
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West Milton Red, White & Run 5k

8:00 am

Cruise In at the Roadhouse

4:00 pm
Rip Rap Roadhouse

Kevin Sonnycalb Memorial Fireworks Festival

4:00 pm
Shawnee Park

What The Taco?!

4:00 pm
Fairborn July 4th concert & fireworks

Wheel Fresh Pizza

5:00 pm
Centennial Park

Matilda: The Musical

6:00 pm
La Comedia

LIVE TRIVIA with Trivia Shark

6:00 pm
Miami Valley Sports Bar

Kettering Go Fourth!

6:00 pm
Delco Park

Star Spangled Boom – Moraine

6:00 pm
Wax Park

Beavercreek’s 4th of July Celebration

6:00 pm
Rotary Park

Dave’d and Confused

7:00 pm
Heather's Coffee & Cafe

Honoring our Veterans concert ft. The Scotty Bratcher Band

7:00 pm
Levitt Pavilion

Midnight in the City

9:00 pm
Flavor House Event Center
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Ongoing

Boom Bap in Belmont

9:00 pm
belmont billiards

Cars and Coffee

8:00 am
Austin Landing

Yellow Springs Farmers Market

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John Bryan Community Center

Downtown Franklin Farmers Market

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Franklin Farmers Market

Oakwood Farmers Market

9:00 am
Oakwood Farmers Market

Greene County Farmers Market

9:00 am
Beavercreek Farmers Market

Shiloh Farmers Market

9:00 am
Shiloh Church

The Buzz about Bees

10:00 am
Cox Arboretum

Farmers Market at The Heights

10:00 am
Eichelberger Amphitheater

New Carlisle Farmer’s Market

10:00 am
Downtown New Carlisle

6888 Summer Marketplace

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6888 Kitchen Incubator

Beginner Stand-Up Paddleboard Yoga

2:00 pm
RiverScape MetroPark

Matilda: The Musical

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La Comedia

 Voices of Vision: Karaoke Fundraiser for the Arts 

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Cosmo Joe's Atomic Lounge

Land of the Free Home of the Jokes

7:00 pm
Laugh Zone House of Comedy

Sinkane

7:00 pm
Levitt Pavilion

Moonlight Bike Ride

7:00 pm
Greene County Parks and Trails Headquarters
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Downtown Troy Farmers’ Market

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cheese class

Montgomery County Fair – Red White & Bloom

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Montgomery County Fairgrounds

Matilda: The Musical

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24K Magic: #1 Tribute to Bruno Mars

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Stubbs Park

Dayton Poetry Slam

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yellow cab tavern

Becca’s LOTD Dart Tournament

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Weird Al BIGGER & WEIRDER 2025 Tour

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Chicago Plays The Rose

8:00 pm
The Rose Music Center At The Heights

Sunday Funday Karaoke

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The Barrel
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Week of Events

Mon 30

Tue 1

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Thu 3

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Sun 6

10:30 am - 11:30 am

Community Clothing Swap

June 30 @ 10:30 am - 11:30 am

Community Clothing Swap

Come join us at the Russ Nature Reserve for a fun day of swapping clothes with your neighbors! Bring your...

Free
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm Recurring

Color Our World – The Art of Stories

June 30 @ 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm Recurring

Color Our World – The Art of Stories

Each session of this freeform art class will focus on a different children's book illustrators' works and provide children an...

5:00 pm - 8:00 pm Recurring

Rolling Easy

June 30 @ 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm Recurring

Rolling Easy

Mobile food trailer w/ freshly made street food: crispy wonton rolls filled with fresh ingredients, prime rib sliders, grilled cheese...

5:00 pm - 10:00 pm Recurring

$3 Burger Night

June 30 @ 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm Recurring

$3 Burger Night

From 5-10pm you can choose from the following: for $3 - it's a plain burger on a bun, $4 -...

$3
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm Recurring

Mommy and Me Yoga

June 30 @ 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm Recurring

Mommy and Me Yoga

You asked for it, and here it is- EVENING Mommy and Me Yoga at The Well! https://bit.ly/mommyandmeyogathewell But it's not...

$18
6:30 pm - 8:30 pm Recurring

Monday Trivia Night

June 30 @ 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm Recurring

Monday Trivia Night

Got a case of the Mondays?  Come in and enjoy a night of trivia, good food, drinks, and company. Join...

6:30 pm - 8:30 pm Recurring

Chess Club!

June 30 @ 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm Recurring

Chess Club!

The club is open to players of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced players.

Free
7:00 pm - 8:00 pm Recurring

LGBT AA group

June 30 @ 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm Recurring

LGBT AA group

The All-Inclusive Alcoholics Anonymous Group (AA) meeting was formed to be inclusive for all members of the LGBTQIA+ community, as...

Free
+ 2 More
12:00 pm - 8:00 pm Recurring

Schmidt’s Sausage Truck

July 1 @ 12:00 pm - 8:00 pm Recurring

Schmidt’s Sausage Truck

12:30 pm - 7:30 pm Recurring

Next Up Taste & Grill

July 1 @ 12:30 pm - 7:30 pm Recurring

Next Up Taste & Grill

1:00 pm

Taste of Northmont

July 1 @ 1:00 pm

Taste of Northmont

Get ready for a summer of delicious discoveries and exciting chances to win fantastic prizes! The Northmont Area Chamber of...

2:30 pm - 9:30 pm Recurring

Bargain Tuesday: $6.50 Movie Day

July 1 @ 2:30 pm - 9:30 pm Recurring

Bargain Tuesday: $6.50 Movie Day

Tuesday at the Neon in Downtown Dayton movies are just $6.50

$6.50
4:00 pm - 8:00 pm Recurring

Cloud Park Food Truck Rally

July 1 @ 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm Recurring

Cloud Park Food Truck Rally

Get ready for a delicious summer in Huber Heights! Join us every other Tuesday starting May 6th through September 9th...

5:00 pm - 8:00 pm Recurring

Lazy Baker Pizza Maker

July 1 @ 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm Recurring

Lazy Baker Pizza Maker

5:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Patio Pounders

July 1 @ 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Patio Pounders

Enjoy a curated selection of wines that capture the essence of patios in every pour! We will be offering small...

$20
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm Recurring

Tai Chi & Qigong at the River

July 1 @ 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm Recurring

Tai Chi & Qigong at the River

Offered by Immortal Tree Qigong. Each hour-long Tai Chi & Qigong session will start with breathing exercises, warm up, and...

Free
+ 3 More
9:45 am - 3:00 pm Recurring

ILLYS Fire Pizza

July 2 @ 9:45 am - 3:00 pm Recurring

ILLYS Fire Pizza

We are a mobile wood fired pizza company that specialize in turkey products such as Turkey pepperoni, Italian Turkey sausage,...

10:00 am - 1:00 pm Recurring

Fairborn Farmers Market

July 2 @ 10:00 am - 1:00 pm Recurring

Fairborn Farmers Market

The Fairborn Farmers Market was established with the intent to provide the Fairborn community access to fresh and wholesome products...

Free
3:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Trotwood Community Market (presented by American Legion Post 613)

July 2 @ 3:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Trotwood Community Market (presented by American Legion Post 613)

A celebration of locally sourced foods and products from small businesses in Trotwood and the surrounding communities! Stop by and...

3:00 pm - 7:00 pm Recurring

Miamisburg Farmers Market

July 2 @ 3:00 pm - 7:00 pm Recurring

Miamisburg Farmers Market

Miamisburg Farmers MarketAt Miamisburg Christian Church parking lot.1146 E. Central Ave in Miamisburg.Fresh Produce, sweet treats, food trucks and more..

5:00 pm - 9:00 pm

What the Taco?!

July 2 @ 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm

What the Taco?!

Chipotle Chicken Taco GRILLED CHICKEN, SHREDDED LETTUCE, PICO DE GALLO, CILANTRO SOUR CREAM & MONTEREY JACK $10.00 Ground Beef Taco...

5:30 pm - 6:30 pm Recurring

Yoga – Arcade Arts & Wellness

July 2 @ 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm Recurring

Yoga – Arcade Arts & Wellness

The 2025 Arcade Arts & Wellness Series is a rejuvenating journey with a variety of local yoga instructors amidst the...

Free
7:00 pm

Skeeball Tournament

July 2 @ 7:00 pm

Skeeball Tournament

**Skeeball Tournament – First Wednesday of Every Month!** J Welcome to the Skeeball Tournament at Level Up Pinball Bar! Get ready to roll...

$7.18
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Recurring

Trivia Night at Alematic

July 2 @ 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Recurring

Trivia Night at Alematic

Grab some friends and join us every Wednesday night at the brewery for a pint of your favorite ALEMATIC brew...

+ 1 More
4:00 pm - 7:00 pm Recurring

Lebanon Farmers Market

July 3 @ 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm Recurring

Lebanon Farmers Market

The Lebanon Farmers Market is open 4 pm to 7 pm every Thursday mid-May through mid-October.  We are located in...

5:00 pm

3rd Annual Crab Rangoon Eating Contest

July 3 @ 5:00 pm

3rd Annual Crab Rangoon Eating Contest

It’s back—and bigger than ever. Join us for the 3rd Annual Crab Rangoon Eating Contest at Loose Ends Brewing. Last...

$15
5:00 pm - 7:00 pm Recurring

Grapes & Groves

July 3 @ 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm Recurring

Grapes & Groves

Join us every Thursday to Taste Wine at your own pace. Each Thursday we will have one of our highly...

5:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Middletown July 3rd Fireworks + Festival

July 3 @ 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Middletown July 3rd Fireworks + Festival

5-10 PM: Free Kids Zone, including face painting and inflatables 6-7:30 PM: Live Music 7:30-8 PM: National Anthem Flag Jump...

5:00 pm - 10:30 pm

Centerville Americana Festival

July 3 @ 5:00 pm - 10:30 pm

Centerville Americana Festival

The Americana Festival Committee is excited to bring the Centerville – Washington Township community together once again for what promises...

5:30 pm - 7:00 pm Recurring

Member’s Group Crit Night

July 3 @ 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm Recurring

Member’s Group Crit Night

Thursdays / 5:30-7 p / Jun 12 / Jul 3 / Aug 7 Exclusive for Co Members / Become a...

6:00 pm Recurring

Matilda: The Musical

July 3 @ 6:00 pm Recurring

Matilda: The Musical

Winner of 47 International Awards! Matilda is a little girl with astonishing wit, intelligence, and special powers. She's unloved by...

$39 – $79
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm Recurring

Open Collage Night

July 3 @ 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm Recurring

Open Collage Night

Admission is $10 per person at the door / Free for Co Members / Become a Member at codayton.org/membership Join...

$10
+ 4 More
8:00 am - 9:00 am

West Milton Red, White & Run 5k

July 4 @ 8:00 am - 9:00 am

West Milton Red, White & Run 5k

Description The Red, White, and Run 5k in West Milton will be held on July 4th!  This fun and enjoyable...

$30
4:00 pm - 10:00 pm Recurring

Cruise In at the Roadhouse

July 4 @ 4:00 pm - 10:00 pm Recurring

Cruise In at the Roadhouse

Cruise In at the Roadhouse is taking place at Rip Rap Roadhouse, which is located at 6024 Rip Rap Rd. in Huber Heights....

4:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Kevin Sonnycalb Memorial Fireworks Festival

July 4 @ 4:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Kevin Sonnycalb Memorial Fireworks Festival

The Kevin Sonnycalb Memorial Fireworks Festival is Xenia’s signature Independence Day celebration, held at Shawnee Park. This event is hosted alongside the Red, White &...

4:00 pm - 10:00 pm

What The Taco?!

July 4 @ 4:00 pm - 10:00 pm

What The Taco?!

Chipotle Chicken Taco GRILLED CHICKEN, SHREDDED LETTUCE, PICO DE GALLO, CILANTRO SOUR CREAM & MONTEREY JACK $10.00 Ground Beef Taco...

5:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Wheel Fresh Pizza

July 4 @ 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Wheel Fresh Pizza

Pepperoni Pizza Classic pepperoni, mozzarella, provolone and fresh-made sauce $17.00 Cheese Pizza Mozzarella/Provolone blend, and fresh-made pizza sauce $16.00 Sausage...

6:00 pm Recurring

Matilda: The Musical

July 4 @ 6:00 pm Recurring

Matilda: The Musical

Winner of 47 International Awards! Matilda is a little girl with astonishing wit, intelligence, and special powers. She's unloved by...

$39 – $79
6:00 pm - 9:00 pm Recurring

LIVE TRIVIA with Trivia Shark

July 4 @ 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm Recurring

LIVE TRIVIA with Trivia Shark

Join us every Friday night at 6pm for Dayton's Best LIVE TRIVIA with Trivia Shark at Miami Valley Sports Bar!...

6:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Kettering Go Fourth!

July 4 @ 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Kettering Go Fourth!

Go Fourth! is Kettering’s premier Independence Day celebration, featuring live entertainment, food trucks, bounce houses, and a spectacular fireworks and drone show. Hosted...

+ 5 More
8:00 am - 11:00 am

Cars and Coffee

July 5 @ 8:00 am - 11:00 am

Cars and Coffee

Join SW Ohio's most passionate car enthusiasts with this nationally recognized gathering. As the largest Cars and Coffee gathering in...

Free
8:00 am - 12:00 pm Recurring

Yellow Springs Farmers Market

July 5 @ 8:00 am - 12:00 pm Recurring

Yellow Springs Farmers Market

For over 20 years this market has been made up of a hardworking group of men, women and children, dedicated...

8:30 am - 12:00 pm Recurring

Downtown Franklin Farmers Market

July 5 @ 8:30 am - 12:00 pm Recurring

Downtown Franklin Farmers Market

Join us every Saturday through Sept 13, 8.30 a.m. - 12 p.m. for local products including fresh produce, honey/jams, and...

9:00 am - 12:00 pm Recurring

Oakwood Farmers Market

July 5 @ 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Recurring

Oakwood Farmers Market

The 2025 Oakwood Farmers’ Market will be held Saturdays, June 7th thru October 11th, from 9 am until 12pm. The...

9:00 am - 1:00 pm Recurring

Greene County Farmers Market

July 5 @ 9:00 am - 1:00 pm Recurring

Greene County Farmers Market

The outdoor Farmers Market on Indian Ripple Rd. in Beavercreek runs Saturdays, 9-1 even during the winter months. Check out...

9:00 am - 2:00 pm Recurring

Shiloh Farmers Market

July 5 @ 9:00 am - 2:00 pm Recurring

Shiloh Farmers Market

The farmers’ market is located on the corner of Main St. & Philadelphia Dr, in the parking lot of Shiloh...

10:00 am - 12:00 pm

The Buzz about Bees

July 5 @ 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

The Buzz about Bees

Dive into the fascinating world of bumblebees and bees as we explore the vital roles and ecosystem services that these...

$3
10:00 am - 2:00 pm Recurring

Farmers Market at The Heights

July 5 @ 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Recurring

Farmers Market at The Heights

Join us for the Farmers Market at The Heights Saturdays 10a-2pm. All products are either homemade or homegrown or support...

+ 9 More
9:00 am - 12:00 pm Recurring

Downtown Troy Farmers’ Market

July 6 @ 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Recurring

Downtown Troy Farmers’ Market

Downtown Troy Farmers' Market will run Saturday mornings 9:00 am to 12:00 pm from June 22nd, 2013 through September 21st,...

11:30 am - 5:00 pm

Filled Pasta Class

July 6 @ 11:30 am - 5:00 pm

Filled Pasta Class

Join Chef Casey in a hands-on culinary adventure and learn what makes our pasta so delicious! You'll try your hand...

$128
12:00 pm - 1:30 pm Recurring

Mozzarella & Mimosas

July 6 @ 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm Recurring

Mozzarella & Mimosas

$30
12:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Montgomery County Fair – Red White & Bloom

July 6 @ 12:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Montgomery County Fair – Red White & Bloom

Summer's biggest celebration is just around the corner!  This year's theme, "Red, White & Bloom," promises a week-long celebration of community,...

6:00 pm Recurring

Matilda: The Musical

July 6 @ 6:00 pm Recurring

Matilda: The Musical

Winner of 47 International Awards! Matilda is a little girl with astonishing wit, intelligence, and special powers. She's unloved by...

$39 – $79
7:00 pm

24K Magic: #1 Tribute to Bruno Mars

July 6 @ 7:00 pm

24K Magic: #1 Tribute to Bruno Mars

All concerts are free. Food trucks and beer sales will be available for guests to enjoy. Friday night Party in the...

Free
7:30 pm Recurring

Dayton Poetry Slam

July 6 @ 7:30 pm Recurring

Dayton Poetry Slam

Dayton's longest running poetry show is celebrating it's 24th year.  Open mics, competitions, and featured poets await you twice a...

$3
7:30 pm - 11:30 pm Recurring

Becca’s LOTD Dart Tournament

July 6 @ 7:30 pm - 11:30 pm Recurring

Becca’s LOTD Dart Tournament

Every Sunday night at Miami Valley Sports Bar -- a Luck of the Draw Dart Tournament hosted by Becca. $10...

$10.00
+ 3 More
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