Active Living

Healthy Living: Where Do I Start?

October 30, 2013 By Lauren Smith 3 Comments

If you’ve perused Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram lately, you’re probably no stranger to the healthy living fad that seems to be popping up all over the place. Lately, it seems like everyone is proudly posting their Nike+ runs to Facebook and sharing their healthy recipes on Instagram (complete with the appropriate filter to make average-looking food seem high class, of course). It’s honestly kind of fantastic. In a society where obesity is becoming the norm, it’s refreshing to see a new demographic changing the standard and raising the bar for how we treat our bodies. It’s amazing to see the transformations people are capable of, and we should absolutely be inspired by it. That being said, if you’re interested in losing weight or adopting a healthier lifestyle, all of this can seem like information overload. Where do I start? What do I eat? How should I workout? Fret not, friends. I’ve broken it down for you as best I can, into what I think are the best tips for starting the journey towards a new, healthier you (sorry, that’s super tacky – but it’s true).

Write down your goals. Are you interested in losing weight or dropping a pant size? You’ll quickly find out those two don’t always go hand in hand. Are you interested in building strength? Eating better? Feeling better? Ideally, if you want a healthy lifestyle to stick, the latter should be the first goal on your list. Whatever your goals may be, write them down. Do it. Now. Pull out the pen and paper. You’ll need them written down so that in three months, when you curse yourself for signing up for this, you can remind yourself of why you started.

Tackle food little by little. A total pantry makeover is a grand idea on paper, but isn’t realistic when starting something new. Start with little goals that are easier to accomplish instead of expecting your body to adjust to a complete change in diet. Are you a fast food fiend at lunchtime? Vow to pack your lunch every day this week. Replace your normal afternoon bag of chips with an apple. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and your healthy habits won’t be either.

Run, walk, dance, lift, bike and yoga. Ok, so maybe not all of those. But be willing to try more than one form of activity until you find one that you like. There are always going to be days you’d rather not go to the gym, but for the most part, you should get some kind of enjoyment out of the activity you’re doing. Running isn’t for everyone, and neither is yoga. It doesn’t matter how you get active, just get active.

Tell someone. The only thing harder than losing weight is doing it alone. “Going public” with your weight loss and health plans is often hard to do, but totally worth it. The support system you gain from friends and family, not to mention the accountability of people wanting to see you succeed, is limitless once you’re willing to open up about your goals. Vocalizing them is important, and you’ll probably find a new gym buddy in the process.

This is me, circa 2008 during my senior year of college, and the "after" me taken post-race of the USAF half marathon in September 2013. Crazy, right?

This is me, circa 2008 during my senior year of college, and the “after” me taken post-race at the USAF half marathon in September 2013. Crazy, right?

Be inspired. Over and over again. It is your job to motivate yourself. Don’t expect anyone else to hold your hand. Do what you need to do to feel inspired – Google before and after pictures, make a motivational board on Pinterest, post those goals you wrote down to the front of your refrigerator to keep you from snacking. Do it over and over again, as needed. Repeat.

Set yourself up for success. Be realistic. Be smart. Don’t try to wake up on your very first day and eat “clean,” run 5 miles, get a strength training session in and still find time to bake cookies for your kids and fold the laundry. It’s not going to happen. Unless you’re a super hero, in which case, we should chat. Set small, attainable goals you know you can reach. Once you build the habit, you’ll feel confident and in control – and that is the golden combination for building better habits upon better habits.

It’s not rocket science, but it is hard. I know, how should I know? Because I’m a professional weight-loser, of course. I struggle to find balance each and every day, but I’ve lost 70 pounds and I’m not stopping yet. Stick around, friends. Because I promise you to inundate you with the information, motivation and general kick-in-the-pants you need to succeed.

New Scenic Bikeway Connects Austin Interchange Area To Regional Bikeway Network

October 29, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

After 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 [email protected].

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

Dayton Second City in Ohio Declared A “Trail Town”

October 25, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Five 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 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.

Kettering Celebrates National Arts and Humanities Month with Arts Bike Ride

October 15, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro 1 Comment

The City of Kettering’s Arts Council (KAC) is promoting two arts-related events in October to encourage residence to appreciate and attend the arts. A proclamation for the month-long National Arts and Humanities Month was issued by Kettering Mayor Don Patterson at the September 24^th Kettering City Council Meeting.

Mike Beerbower, KAC President, announced at the meeting plans for the first “Bike the Arts” event on Saturday, October 26^th beginning at 10 a.m. at Rosewood Arts Center, 2655 Olson Drive.

“This 10-mile guided bike tour will offer brief explanations as riders make stops at art installations throughout Kettering including Delco Park, Wenzler Park, Lincoln Park Commons, Kettering Government Center and Indian Riffle Park,” said Beerbower. “The tour will also visit art-related businesses including SPARK Art Studio, We Care Arts, Town & Country Shopping Center and the School of Advertising Arts.”

Cyclists will be treated to refreshments and restroom breaks at various locations and participate in free bicycle safety giveaways from the Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission’s Pedal Pals bicycle program. Items include bike pumps, reflector lights, seat covers, backpacks and first aid kits.

More information and bike route maps are available at Rosewood at 296-0294 or [email protected].

The KAC is also partnering with the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance by inviting Kettering residents to attend select performances of Dayton Ballet, Dayton Opera and Dayton Philharmonic performances during the 2013-2014 Signature Season for only $12 per ticket.

The $12 ticket offer is for the October 24-27 performances of Dayton Ballet’s A Range of Motion at the Victoria Theatre; the Dayton Philharmonic’s The Art of Transformation on January 9 and 11, 2014 and Michael Gandolfi and His Garden of Sound on January 10, 2014, both at the Schuster Center; and Dayton Opera’s Hansel and Gretel on February 23, 2014, at the Schuster Center.

This special pricing, a regular $35 to $36 value, is for households within Kettering zip codes and are on sale at www.daytonperformingarts.org or at Ticket Center Stage 228-3630.

The KAC, in partnership and collaboration with the community, strives to provide access to the arts for all ages, encourage a passion for the arts, and promote art appreciation and education. Established in 1967, the Kettering Arts Council is a 15-member citizen advisory committee overseen by the City of Kettering Parks, Recreation and Cultural Department.

Dayton Earns Distinction As A Trail Town

October 9, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

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

The Special Wish Run

October 9, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

This family friendly 5k run/walk will take place on November 2, 2013 at Island MetroPark. All proceeds will benefit ASW and the granting of Special Wishes to local children d or adolescent (birth through age 20) who has been diagnosed by a physician with a life-threatening disorder. The Dayton Chapter of A Special Wish Foundation serves Montgomery, Greene, Miami, Darke, Shelby, and Mercer counties. Over the past 29 years, our chapter has granted over 1,500 wishes to children living in its six county area.

Pre-registration (before October 26, 2013) is $25/person; Kids 8 years and younger are free, but still need to register for the event. Registration must be done by printing out a registration form and sending it to ASW. Late or day-of registration is $30/person, but a race t-shirt is not guaranteed.

Event Details:

Date: 11/2/13

Time: 9:00am, 7:30am day-of registration

Location: Island MetroPark/Stillwater Bike Trail (1001 Helena St., Dayton, OH 45405)

Friends of the Poor Walk

September 23, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

There’s still time for you to lace up a pair of your favorite walking shoes and join St. Vincent de Paul in raising funds to relieve poverty, on Sat, Sept 28th at The Job Center. Check in beigins at 9am and the 5K walk begins at 10am.

There is no fee to register.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2hOUoj77yc8′]
Walkers are encouraged to make a personal monetary donation and collect pledges from supporters. On-line walker registration and pledging makes it easy for you to send e-vites to raise dollars and collect credit card donations.

Follow the steps below to get registered today!

Step 1: Go to www.svdpusa.net/fop/
Step 2: At the top of the page, select Walkers then select
Become a New Walker
Step 3: Your Conference/Council’s address is in Ohio
Step 4: Type #436 in the search box to find and select your Beneficiary –
District Council of Dayton
Step 5: Complete the registration form. In the Walk Event field, choose
OH Dayton: The Job Center, District Council of Dayton

For questions or paper registration forms contact Terry Williamson, Development Programs Manager at 937-222-7349 ext. 419 or [email protected]

The 1880s Are Alive and Well in Dayton

September 13, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Who knew Dayton had gone so retro?

We may have only recently entered the 21^st century, but the turn of the 20^th 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. From 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 19^th 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 Need

The 2^nd 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 2^nd 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 2^nd 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]

Laugh Strong: Tour de Comedy Rolls into Dayton

August 30, 2013 By Laura Rea Leave a Comment

“Four comedians ride their bikes into a bar…” Not the set up for a bad joke – the first bicycle comedy tour will stop in Dayton for a show at Riff Raff on the Canal on September 8th. Dean Masello is a New York City-based comic who missed riding his bike. Looking for a way to combine his two loves, he hatched an idea to do a cycling comedy tour. “One of the biggest challenges was finding three other comics that were in good enough shape to pull off over 500 miles in 8 days”. Although he’s lived in New York City for years, Ohio is his home state, which is one of the reasons he arranged the first leg of the tour to run from Cincinnati to Cleveland. “I thought about riding through Pensylvania, but it’s hard enough to ride a car through it. Besides, Ohio is relatively flat.”

Partnering with local cycling advocacy groups for each tour stop, Dean worked with Bike Miami Valley (BMV) to promote a show in Dayton, and provide assistance with local logistics. With the mission to promote, advocate and create all types of cycling opportunities in the region, BMV couldn’t pass up the opportunity to be involved in the first leg of the tour. The recent opening of Riff Raff on the Canal provided a great venue for the tour stop in Dayton. Mike Schmidt has been working hard to get Dayton’s newest club up and running, and was excited to host such an unusual event. “It’s different! I love to support people who are doing something for a cause.” Riff Raff is new to the local scene, but has already been recognized for serving some of the best tasting wings in the city.

Dean, and his friends Adam Sokol, Christian Polanco and Max Boyajian, will ride into town on the 8th, taking advantage of the extensive network of paved cycling trails in southwestern Ohio. BMV will host a group ride with the four comics starting at 4:30pm. The ride will start at Riff Raff on the Canal, and roll through Dayton to the Wright Cycle Shop and Carillon Park. The comedy ride-along is free, and open to the public. The ride will be done by 6:00pm, allowing time for riders to clean up and enjoy the menu at Riff Raff.

Working in stand up comedy leads to rough schedules, and leaves very little time for recreation. Dean found an ingenious way to work while getting a little fresh air. “This way, we get to see the country (get new material), promote sustainability (save money), get exercise (not die), and do what we love to do (use standup comedy to self-medicate rather than prescription drugs).” Dayton has already been recognized by the League of American Bicyclists as a Bronze-level Bike Friendly City. With the Laugh Strong: Tour de Comedy choosing a stop in Dayton? We’re on the way to Silver.

More Information: http://www.laughstrongcomedy.com/

What: Comedy Show, featuring Dean Masello, Adam Sokol, Christian Polanco, and Max Boyajian.

When: Sunday, September 8, 2013

Comedy Ride-Along 4:30pm – 6:00pm

Show starts at 7:30pm

Where: Riff Raff on the Canal

130 North Patterson Blvd

Dayton, OH 45402

Tickets: $5 – tickets at door, or https://laughstrongday.eventbrite.com/

Midwest Tandem Rally Returns to Miami Valley

August 26, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

The 38^th Annual Midwest Tandem Rally, a cycling event for tandem bicyclists, returns to the Miami Valley this Labor Day weekend for the first time since 2003. Approximately 350 tandem teams will descend upon Greene County and ride between 60 and 200 miles during the two organized rides.

“Working with the Midwest Tandem Rally organizers for the last two years has been wonderful. The planners and participants alike are passionate cyclists and just the type of people we want to attract for return visits to ride our one-of-a-kind trail network.” said Kathleen Young, Executive Director of the Greene County Convention & Visitor’s Bureau.

The 2013 Midwest Tandem Rally is being hosted by the Greater Ohio Area Tandem Society (G.O.A.T.S.) with support from the Greene County Convention & Visitors Bureau. The rally attracts participants not just from the Midwest, but from all over the United States and even into Canada. Many riders take the opportunity to extend their stay by a few days to fully experience all the area has to offer. The organized rides on Saturday and Sunday will utilize mostly rural roads throughout Greene County but many teams will also take advantage of the trail network during their stay.

Organizers urge all motorists to make themselves of their surroundings and allow plenty of room when sharing the road with cyclists.

Pam Kulhanek, GOATS Midwest Tandem Rally Director, says “Local tandem teams that it is not too late to register for the event. The ride is a great opportunity to experience the Midwest Tandem Rally close to home. It is so much fun to meet and ride with people from all over the country and all walks of life who enjoy riding tandem. By the end of the weekend, you will be looking forward to next year and meeting up with all of the friends you have met.”

The Greene County Convention & Visitors Bureau estimates the economic impact of the rally at between $500,000 and $750,000. Hotels, restaurants, gas stations and Wright State University all directly benefit from the event.

Michael Miraglia, General Manager of the Holiday Inn in Fairborn had this to say about the Midwest Tandem Rally: “We are very excited to be hosting the MTR. Events this size don’t come around often and the fact that they have chosen Greene County and the Holiday Inn Dayton Fairborn is very gratifying. We are eagerly awaiting the event and we anticipate an incredible weekend.”

For additional information on the 2013 Midwest Tandem Rally, contact Pam Kulhanek at 937-287-7801. More information is available at http://mtr2013.org/

Paddle Faster, I Hear Bluegrass

August 3, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Six weeks ago Tom Helbig cooked up this idea for a festival called canoegrass! Things have happened quickly: he built a website, created a logo, built a floating stage, started a Facebook page, booked 8 musicians, made t-shirts, ordered beer and ticket sales have started for the Aug 16-17 festival. Tom is quick to credit help from his friends that have helped turn his dream into a reality and invites you to join the fun. Tom also shared this will be a family friendly event.

Canoegrass will be a weekend celebration of bluegrass music, the best of the human spirit and river life. The festival site will be banks of the Great Miami River, which will come alive with the best entertainers in the region. This isn’t your ordinary festival. Get ready to get wet, wild and jam all weekend long. The best seat in the house just may be from a canoe or tube!

You will find music everywhere; at camp, on your river trip and even on a floating stage. Some will be scheduled, some will not! Attendees are encouraged to help build the scene and jam everywhere you find the inspiration.

CampStage:

Home of the Friday and Saturday night featured acts that includes some of the best bluegrass and roots performers in our region. Bring your dancing boots, a partner and shout “Take a Drink a Beer” all night long.
Lineup includes Friday 7 pm (Bibs and Barefeet), 9 pm (Blue Caboose) and Saturday at 7 pm (Todd the Fox), 9 pm (Hickory Robot)

Tube Jam:

This is what everyone will be talking about at Canoegrass! Borrow a tube or bring your inflatable to float on the Great Miami River during the Tube Jam floating stage shows. Cool off during these shows as the August heat will be in full force! Float around with friends and enjoy up and coming performers from our region.
Lineup includes Friday at 5:30 pm (Jay Cullis and Dillon Brown), Saturday 5 pm (Holy Hickory)
Open mic on the floating stage, Saturday 10 am – 2 pm

River Jam:

On Saturday morning, the Great Miami River will play host to our paddling trips and streamside jam sessions. Make sure you stop and join a jam session along your journey. We encourage you to bring your own instruments, raft together with friends and jam your way downstream!
Canoeing and kayaking trips, 10 am – 3 pm

There is so much to do beyond camping and music at Canoegrass! Check out all the fun you can have during the weekend:

Take a river trip

Rent a canoe or kayak and take a trip down the Great Miami River Saturday morning and paddle right up to the music! The Great Miami River is one of three designated water trails in the area providing beautiful scenery and great small mouth bass fishing. Rent a boat from Adventures on the Great Miami

Slip and Swing

Canoegrass offers access to a stream-side rope swing for a splashing good time! We also claim to have the greatest slip and slide in the world. You will feel like a kid again no matter your age. Access granted with camping or day pass.

Canoe Jousting

That’s right medieval jousting meets canoeing! Hop in a canoe and battle the opposition in a friendly match to see who can be the last one standing. Competitors will be required to wear a life jacket and helmet. We like things a little crazy so wear costumes and the wildest helmet you can find to distract your competition and give those on the bank a good laugh! Register Saturday morning by 1 pm at the camp office. Jousting begins at 2 pm. A single-elimination bracket will be created at close of registration. First place earns braggin’ rights and some of the coolest photos of all time!

Biking

Canoegrass is across the river from the Great Miami River Bikeway and provides convenient access to over 300 miles of paved trail to explore. This is the largest connected bikeway network in the country. We highly recommend you bring a bike for the weekend. You can put on a bunch of miles or take a leisurely ride to Tipp City or the Tadmor Historic Site at Taylorsville MetroPark in between the action at Canoegrass.

Fishing

We are on a river and there are hungry small mouth bass that live there! Pack a rod and try to land the big one from camp or on your float trip. Ohio Fishing License required.

Hiking

Take a hike. Yes, we mean it! We are minutes away from some of the most beautiful hiking trails at Charleston Falls Preserve and Taylorsville MetroPark. Definitely, a great way to shake the hangover before action picks up at Canoegrass.

For ticket info please checkout the Canoegrass website.

Celebrate Hot Yoga’s First Anniversary with Free Classes

July 28, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Join us for a day of celebration as we welcome everyone to the studio to try any class free of charge. Please bring a mat, towel, and a bottle of water. We will have lot’s of specials, and give aways! Please come 10 minutes early. If this will be your first time to the studio , you will need to sign a waiver. All classes 90 minutes. Please arrive on time , doors are locked at the start of class. This is for the safety of yourself and your belongings.

NEW STUDENTS
Please be well hydrated prior to your first class, drink plenty of water up to 24 hrs. before attending class. Try to eat 2-3 hrs before class, so you will have an empty stomach. If you must eat prior to class please choose fresh and healthy fruits and vegetables.

Class times:

9 am – Hot Series w/ Sarah A. – In Hot Series we do 26 poses, each done twice. We start with a breathing exercise followed by a standing series, a floor series, and finishing with a breathing exercise. All levels welcome to this class.

5 pm – Hot Power Flow w/ Anca – Come to this highly energizing class that will flow along to some great tunes. This class will move along at a faster pace.

7 pm – Hot Vinyasa w/ Becky – Vinyasa means ‘ breath synchronized movement ‘ Be ready to flow through this yoga class as you practice a variety of asanas, and learn the power of inhaling and exhaling.

Come in to our hot studio and let us help you take your yoga practice to a new level. We practice several types of yoga in a room that is heated to 95-100 degrees. The heat is going to help warm your muscles for greater flexibility, and to achieve a deeper stretch. Get ready to flush the toxins from your body as you sweat your way through class burning upwards of 600-1,000 calories.

Enjoy all of these great benefits from hot yoga:
* Tones, strengthens, and lengthens your muscles

*Reduce weight- lose pounds by balancing your
metabolism

*Restore flexibility

*Improve circulation

Sweat, work hard, have fun, and leave feeling wonderful!

Gem City Cycling: How Dayton Became The Best Of Ohio

July 25, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Cycling in Downtown Dayton (Photograph by bsom, Flickr)

Dayton might not be the first city that comes to mind as a cycling haven in Ohio. Surely Cleveland, Columbus or Cincinnati has more to offer than a city with less than 150,000 residents, right?

Turns out the Gem City is arguably king of Ohio cycling with the Miami Valley claiming 330 miles of trail to explore and a bronze ranking from the League of American Bicyclists in 2010. Not to mention the area is served by the competitive Team Dayton Cycling and the Dayton Cycling Club on the advocacy front. And nobody involved in Dayton cycling plans to slow down anytime soon as the aerospace hub continues its march toward building a community cycling commuters and athletes can be proud of.

Complete Streets

Matthew Lindsay, Manager of Environmental Planning for the Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission (MVRPC), describes himself as a fair weather bike commuter to his downtown office. His first assignment put him in charge of the Comprehensive Local-Regional Bikeways plans. Lindsay says this offered the opportunity to engage with long-time and new cycling advocates across the Dayton region.

“Soon after the plan was done, I brought a group of interested people together and we founded Courteous Mass Dayton,” Lindsay explains, describing the event as a cousin of the national Critical Mass movement where cyclists take the streets in a monthly ride to remind motorists of their presence. Today, Courteous Mass has expanded since its 2009 inception with additional rides, meet ups and even a social media presence. “I’m very proud that it has continued and is growing.”

Growing, indeed. But not just the Courteous Mass rides. New trails continue to be constructed as an integral piece of the Miami Valley Bike Trails system.

“The Regional Bikeways Plan envisions our network of trails as the interstates for bikes, connecting between communities and across county lines,” Lindsay describes. “The vision here is that these trails will lead to vibrant communities with bike-safe streets so that a cyclist can exit the trail and continue through town safely to the final destination.”

It’s all part of the MVRPC’s complete streets policy, a transportation design that requires streets to be compatible for all ages regardless of their choice of transportation. “Each new piece of trail, each new connected complete street makes the whole system more valuable.”

Hooked

Chuck Smith, Chair of the Ohio Bicycle Federation and Vice President of the Dayton Cycling Club, agrees with Lindsay’s sentiment. A “serious cyclist” since riding his bike to school in the 5th grade, Smith calls the Dayton River Corridor Bikeway System the city’s greatest success story. “This system follows the Great Miami, Mad and Stillwater rivers and has grown to become more than just recreational trails,” he explains, noting how he has personally benefited from the system. “I rode the Great Miami Trail every day on my bike ride home from work at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base to my home in Vandalia over a 22-year period and 52,000 cycling miles.” That’s not even counting the miles he puts on as a member of Team Dayton.

To read the rest of the story please go to Ohio-Active.

OhioActive’s mission is to increase awareness of Ohio’s recreational opportunities while providing in-depth fitness knowledge to individuals seeking to live an active lifestyle. Our goal is to tell engaging stories of local everyday athletes in order to demonstrate that we all have the power to get fit, healthy and active. We sometimes just need a little help and encouragement!.

Dog Days of Summer

July 24, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Many of us here in Dayton, myself included, are crazy about spending time with our four legged pals. Luckily there are lots of places to take them these days that are “dog friendly” In the greater Dayton area we are lucky to have ten off leash dogs parks, pet friendly venues, an indoor dog park and daycare pet paradises. In addition to these pet perks there are also tons of fun pet events in the area including my favorite the “Splash in Dash” which is held in Xenia every August.

Downtown Dayton’s newest dog park Deeds Point is located on the river and up the road from Kettering fields. This park has been a work in progress and has taken some tough canine advocates to put this all together. Local board member and canine advocate Karen Stephens had this to say about the park: “We’ve been in operation a little over a year and in that time, in conjunction with the city, have installed double gates, fixed fences, cleared brush and met a wonderful dog loving community in the heart of the city! We have several upcoming benefits to help raise the funds for establishing our non profit status. Once we have that, we can get liability insurance to open the bathrooms, upgrade the food stand, and hopefully lure someone with a hot dog stand knowledge to run our little food station. We also want to raise funds for a small dog area and a socialization area. This is a small area that allows dogs that need socialization, to feel secure in a small environment, but still can interact through the fence with the other dogs. The last thing is that we have an area that used to be a wading pool. It is still under discussion what to do with this area.” Parks like these are popping up throughout the area and providing a much needed area for dogs to socialize and get some energy out.

Keep in mind pet parks and events can be great fun but “owner beware” just because your pooch is well behaved doesn’t mean that everyone’s pet is. With that in mind here are some basic rules for the dog park:

All dogs must display a valid license.
Dogs must be current on their vaccinations
Leash all dogs while entering and exiting.
Owners must be within eyesight and voice control over their pets at all times.
Puppies under 4 months are prohibited to protect their own health. .Maximum of 3 dogs per adult.
All children must be monitored and accompanied by a guardian at all times.
Be prepared to leash your dog immediately if your pet becomes unruly, worrisome to others, aggressive to animals or humans, or displays mounting behavior .
Honor the request of others to leash your pet if asked.
Dogs in heat are not permitted
Aggressive and/or vicious dogs are not permitted.
CLEAN UP AFTER YOUR PET! WASTE MUST BE DISPOSED OF COMPLETELY!

For a full list of area dog parks please visit http://www.daytondogblog.com/2012/05/updated-list-of-dog-parks-in-dayton.html

Maybe you are unsure of how your pet may react or you already know that your dog may not have the best social skills. No worries there are options to help even the hardest behavior issues! Pet paradises are a great option to get your dog on the right path or maybe you need a day away from home without worrying about who will let the dog out. Janee Moore owner of Moore Specialty Pet Care (MSPC) located off of Smithville Road has dedicated her home and life to helping dogs learn to be properly socialized. The mission of MSPC is as follows: ” To provide Personalized Quality Care for ALL Canines. MSPC specializes in caring for and rehabilitating senior, traumatized, aggressive and rambunctious pets in a healthy pack atmosphere. Through client education and training pets, we will strengthen the bond between owners and their beloved companions. Our years of experience/knowledge of dog psychology/behavior will enhance pets’ lives by providing individualized rehabilitation and training. We create client convenience by offering multiple pet services and specialty products either on-site or at the client’s home.” It is important to note that this is a daycare not a kennel your dogs will be ridiculously spoiled walked several times a day and never be locked in a cage. Janee recommends having doggy play dates at your home especially if you have an un-socialized pet or a pet with issues. “Start with family that has dogs and move your way to all your friends or coworkers that own dogs. Plan your play dates at each other’s houses to run around and go for walks or venture to constructions stores or Tractor Supply for a nice walk and sniff around the places. Of course MSPC is available for doggies that need to be reminded of their doggy manners or build social skills.”

It is very important as pet owners to take responsibility for your pets behavior good or bad. When in a dog park environment or pet event there are always some minor scuffles that’s just the way it goes. The difference is pet parents who react by gaining control of their pets and the owners who are unable to do this thus causing injuries. The biggest problem are owners who don’t know how to properly introduce their dog to new dogs. Dogs are highly social creatures and will react when they feel scared, threatened or overly excited. We do have trainers in the area (Janee Moore and Kelly Kirsch) who specialize in helping owners and pets do this correctly. If you are not sure about your pet or have had problems at pet events in the past please consult a professional for proper training. Just because your pet may have reacted poorly in a social situation is not a reason to ban them or give up on trying. Usually it is something minor that can be corrected with training and consistency.

So you now have a perfectly mannered pet in Dayton so where should you go? There are lots and lots of fun events scheduled in the next months. A great local group called Dayton Dogs Unleashed schedule monthly outings to local dogs parks or dog friendly venues. Past events have included “Dogs Night Out” at Ritters, “4 Paws for Ability” 5k and mile walk, and the annual Woodland “Woof Walk.” Other local events include:

Saturday, July 27, 2013 12:00pm – 04:00pm
Petsmart Adoptathon– Feedwire Road

Saturday, August 03, 2013 09:00am
Woodland Woof Walk

Wednesday, August 07, 2013
RASCAL spay/neuter day
Wednesday, August 07, 2013
NOMAD spay/neuter day

Tails to Trails Hike

Friday, Aug 2 9:00am, Bellbrook

This dog hiking program is a fun opportunity to socialize. All dogs are required to have an accompanying adult human and six-foot leash. Participants must have control of their dogs at all times

Doggie Splash and Dash

August 17- 210 Fairgrounds Road Xenia

5k-9 Run, Walk and Wag

Sunday, Sep 15 10:00a

Riverfront Park, Miamisburg

In conjunction with the 9th Annual Canine Carnival, this accurate 5K benefits the Humane Society of Greater Dayton

Canine Carnival

Sunday, Sep 15 10:00a

Riverfront Park, Miamisburg

This 9th annual event is a festival for dogs and the people they own

Blind Bob’s

Every Tuesday at 4pm-8pm Yappy Hour

Olive and Urban Dive

Well behaved dogs only allowed on patio when available.

If you know of other local events or pet friendly establishments please let us know! We look forward to seeing you and your furry companion around Dayton 🙂

Kayak For A Cure

July 2, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Join Great Miami Outfitters and the Miami Valley Region in our fight against cancer by kayaking for a cure on Saturday, Aug 10th. Funds raised through Kayak for a Cure – Dayton are donated to American Cancer Society (ACS) whose mission is to eradicate cancer and enhance the quality of life for people living with cancer.

NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY. An experienced kayaker will paddle with each group of six (6) paddlers. Participating paddlers must be at least 16 years of age or older, and minors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. We encourage participants to bring their own kayak or canoe. A limited number of kayaks will be available for rental. Kayaks, paddles and PFDs can be rented for $20 for participants that do not have their own. Canoes are welcome. Light breakfast items will be available prior to the paddle and lunch and entertainment will be provided after the paddle. Kayak For A Cure shirts will be presented to all participants who register prior to Saturday, July 27th. Direct questions to Dan Schlegel, Event Chairperson at [email protected]

When & Where is the Event?
Kayak for a Cure™ Dayton will take place Saturday August 10th from 9:00 am to about 2:00 pm. The event will be held in Miamisburg, OH at Linden Ave. Bridge Park.

What is the fundraising goal and what organization benefits?
This is the first event of this kind in the Dayton area and we hope to raise $12,000, with $10,000 to be donated to the American Cancer Society. A final check will be sent from Kayak For A Cure. The additional $2000 raised will offset the cost of putting on the event, unless of course, we receive other donations. Event expenses may include such things as permits, insurance, t-shirts, portable toilets, food and beverages, and miscellaneous printing. Ask us about sponsorship to help offset these expenses, so that the maximum donation can be made to ACS.

Can I bring my own kayak or canoe?
YES. Registered participants are encouraged to bring their own kayak/canoe, paddle(s) and PFDs. You will need to drop your boat off at the launch point in West Carrollton prior to checking in at the registration booth in Miamisburg at the Linden bridge access. Please drop your boat and gear off prior to 8:00 AM, then drive to Miamisburg Linden Avenue bridge where you will park your vehicle. A shuttle bus will take you back up to the launch point in West Carrollton. You will end up at your car in Miamisburg after the paddle trip.

What if I don’t own a kayak or canoe? Can one be provided?
If you do not own a kayak or canoe, there are a limited number of rental boats and equipment available. Rental includes a paddle and PFD. The registration fee is $20 more to include the rental equipment, and are available on a first-come, first-registered basis.

The Event Schedule
The event begins and ends in Miamisburg at the Linden Avenue bridge.
8:00 am – Check-In at registration booth
8:15 am – Welcome, Intro and Information
8:30 am – Shuttles take participants up to West Carrollton at the launch point
9:00 am – Launch in West Carrollton and float down the Great Miami River to Miamisburg (approximately 5.5 river miles). The paddle trip will take approximately 1-1/2 to 2 hours.
12:00 pm – Lunch, Door Prizes & Entertainment
2:00 pm – Event concludes – (After-party at a local restaurant to be announced!)

What is included?
All participants will receive the following:
• A river paddle trip from Miamisburg to West Carrollton – includes people shuttle service.
• A T-Shirt (FREE if registered by July 27th)
• A Light Breakfast
• A chance for door prizes (Items to be announced). Registered participants will receive one (1) door prize ticket with entry fee, PLUS one additional ticket for each additional $50 raised.
• Lunch after the paddle trip, with live acoustic music!

Registration Fees
Advance registration is required. We are limited to 84 participants. Participants must be at least 16 years of age or older.

Or you can make a check payable to “Kayak For A Cure – Dayton” and mail to PO Box 1966, Miamisburg Ohio 45343. Please include a completed Registration Form.
$100 registration – bring your own boat.
$120 registration – includes a kayak, paddle and PFD (life vest). Limited kayak availability.
An additional door prize ticket for every additional $50 raised by each registered participant. Great door prizes to be announced!
Money raised, minus expenses, will be donated to the American Cancer Society.

2013 Local Sponsors
Great Miami Outfitters
City of Miamisburg
City of West Carrollton
Five Rivers MetroParks

About Kayak For A Cure
Kayak for a Cure™ was launched in 2006 by a group of twenty-somethings in Vancouver, BC, from an idea that started right here in DAYTON. Our group was eager to start something special – something scalable and fun while providing legitimate funding to the American and Canadian Cancer Societies, respectively. Something that could build community, provide an amazing one-day kayaking experience and raise money for cancer research and prevention. Kayak for a Cure™ is a volunteer-run organization and gives 100% of their proceeds to charities close to their hearts. Each summer, in cities around the United States and Canada, paddlers – both beginners and experienced – climb in to plastic boats and cross waterways, bays, lakes and channels for two reasons: an excuse to have a great day in the outdoors with some amazing people, and to be part of the solution: fund the research that leads to cures for all types of cancers.

This post courtesy of Explore Miamisburg.

A Quick Guide to Bike Commuting

June 25, 2013 By Dayton937 6 Comments

The first day of Summer came with the first air advisory. The Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission asked people to reduce pollution by using transit, sharing rides, and riding bikes. Searching the internet about bike commuting provides an abundance of information. Some of it is really helpful, but some make bike commuting out to be a very complicated and dangerous thing. From personal experience, I can say it does not take special equipment to get started, and as far as safety is concerned, while I have had some “close calls,” mostly at street crossings, keeping my eyes open and not expecting car drivers to watch out for me has always kept me safe. So how does one go about riding a bike to work? What kind of bike works? What clothes are suitable? What is the best route? What else should be considered? Here is how I get around.

Obviously, the first thing is the bike. Any bicycle, that is safe, will do. If the bike has been standing for a while it should be checked by a professional. There are a couple of things, I like, that make life easier. I want to have fenders on my bike. A fair weather rider might not need them, but I prefer to commute without concerns of getting the infamous “skunk stripe” down my back if I hit an unexpected shower or can not avoid a puddle. Most bikes have fender mounts, for the ones without, there are fenders with zip-tie-like mounts available; your local bike shop is your friend. A chain guard can also come in handy, especially if the rider does not want to roll their pant leg up. A greasy gear imprint on suit pants or just the leg is never fun (I have a bleach pen in my desk, in case I manage to get one anyway). The third must-have for me are a rack and bike bags. I do not like back packs or messenger bags, I sweat under the straps and I prefer to arrive at work as sweat-free as possible. That is a concern very specific to me, though; many riders use regular bags and are perfectly happy with them. Lastly, no matter how old the bike, if it is not locked properly it might get stolen. A good lock is important. The City of Dayton also offers bicycle registration.

A lot of people seem concerned with wearing special clothes to ride to work. Maybe they worry about showing up to work sweaty and possibly stinky, or they assume that Lycra is needed to ride a bike, I do not know. I ride in my work clothes. I read in a comment on Corporette once, “Stop thinking of your commute as exercise.” I could not have worded it better. The ride to work does not have to be a crazy work out. I pace myself; if I get too warm I just take it easy and cool off with the wind before I arrive in the office. Of course, being a woman gives me the opportunity to wear plenty of skirts and dresses, that helps, but pants in natural fibers, which breathe, work just as well. A pair of spinning shorts under a skirt is a good idea if modesty is a concern. If I work up a sweat despite all my efforts I have some Paper Shower packs in my desk, consisting of a big wet wipe and a paper towel. They are pricey, and baby wipes and regular paper towels work probably just as well. I prefer Paper Shower because they are single serve packs; they do not dry out if I have no use for them for a while. The only thing that does not work for me are pencil skirts. They are simply too tight. Luckily, Sew Dayton is working on a class on how to convert a pencil skirt so it can be expanded for the ride and then zipped back up to its original form in the office. Other than that, on a warm day a blazer should probably go into the bag or stay in the office, and a rain coat, that packs small, can be a useful investment.

Route planning might be the biggest concern for new riders. Google Maps has a bicycle option above the address fields, that is a good place to start. The directions are in beta, so pre-riding the route on a non-work day might help, insuring the directions do not lead through something like a turnstile, which has happened to me. This also helps with getting an idea on how long the ride might take. If street riding does not feel safe, sticking to the bike paths as long as possible and then using side streets is a good option. Courteous Mass Dayton holds rides every First Friday, great for anyone who wants to try out riding in the streets with experienced riders. Another option is Pedal Pals from the Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission. Pedal Pals was designed to match up bike commuters with the same routes. If distance is a concern, a last mile solution could work. It means that commuters drive their cars closer to the work place, then park along bike path and ride the bike for the rest of the way. Five River Metro Parks has a list of good access points. The City of Dayton is planning on approaching businesses along the bike paths to provide a couple of parking spaces for interested cyclists, but this system is not in place, yet.

What else is there to say? If there is no place to lock up the bicycle during work, asking the building manager or HR if it is alright to bring it in does not hurt. It worked for me (friendly persistence is key). Bike commuters, who work downtown, might want to check out the Bike Hub.

Down the road it could be beneficial to take a simple maintenance class. It helps to know how to change a tire, how to adjust brakes, and how to keep a chain clean. Bicycles for All offers different classes, so does Five River Metro Parks. The Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission published brochures on basic cycling knowledge. And, like I said above, the Internet is full of information.

So, that is what I think about bike commuting, my suggestions might not be suitable for everybody, but it is a way to get started. I hope I could help some people out. If there are unanswered questions about bike commuting, Courteous Mass Dayton is hosting a Commuter Q and A at the Trolley Stop, Thursday, June 27^th 2013, from 6-8pm. It is a great chance to meet with other commuters and the Courteous Mass Dayton people, get some help planning a route, and exchange knowledge.