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Downtown Businesses Here To Rescue You From Lame Valentine’s Day

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Skate with your sweetie and pick up a Parker plush. Photo courtesy Five Rivers MetroParks

Whether you truly “heart” Valentine’s Day, shun the celebration, or are simply ambivalent to arrow-slinging amoretti, if you’re looking for heartfelt gifts, awesome dinner specials, or great local music, downtown Dayton has you covered. Choose your own adventure in today’s post to create the best weekend experience plopped in the middle of a frigid February.

Date Night

Find out why Amazon.com rated Dayton in its top 20 list of most romantic U.S. cities. If you need gifts and activities for you and your sweetie, here are a few suggestions to squeeze every last drop of romance out of your city:

  • Sweetheart Skate, Feb 13-14, MetroParks Ice Rink: Spend Valentine’s weekend at RiverScape MetroParks Ice Rink! During regular ice rink hours Friday through Sunday, you can purchase the “Sweetheart Deal” and get two rink admissions, two ice skate rentals, two cups of hot chocolate and a Parker the Penguin plush for only $20.
  • February Fantasy, Feb 13-14, Victoria Theatre: The Dayton Ballet presents a powerful ballet program with four diverse works, including two world-premiere ballets. A pre-performance talk will take place 45 minutes prior to each performance. Visit com for details. Don’t forget to bring your receipt from your recent purchase at a downtown Dayton business for discount tickets to this performance!
  • Valentine’s Day Gift-Making, Feb 13-14, Proto BuildBar: Nothing says “love” like 3D printing your own customized Proto Heart and filling it with gifts. Proto also offers pre-stuffed hearts, full of sweets and a piece of locally made, handcrafted jewelry by Brooke Medlin!
  • Super Saturday Family Days, Feb 13, Dayton Art Institute: Maybe your special someone is a little on the short side. Take the kids to create your own beautiful valentines using classic and vintage valentines as your inspiration. Enjoy a gallery hunt featuring some of the most romantic paintings at The Dayton Art Institute.
  • Salsa Saturday Valentine’s Celebration, Feb 13, Therapy Café: DJ Danny D plays a mixture of Latin dance music consisting of salsa, merengue, bachata, cumbia, dembow, line dance, reggaeton, soca, punta, and vallenato, music that will definitely heat up the dance floor. Learn the basics of this sexy, sultry dance with a free lesson at 9:45pm.
  • Annual Valentine’s Show with Touch, Feb 13, Gilly’s Jazz: Dayton-based Touch, a five-member, “old school” rhythm-and-blues band, covers baby-makin’ hits by the Temptations, the Stylistics, the Delfonics, and more at Gilly’s during the annual Valentine Party Saturday night.
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A night of hilarious improv beats a box of those chalky candy hearts any day!

Who Needs Cupid?

Does that chubby cherub even have a license for his amorous arrows? If you’d rather avoid the slings and arrows of outrageous corporate holidays, here are a few ways you can still have a great time without a heart-shaped box.

 

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A romantic dinner is a great way to begin your Valentine’s experience. (Actual view at downtown Dayton restaurants may vary.)

Eat Your Heart Out

Coupled or not, everyone’s gotta eat! Here are a few drool-worthy dining specials this weekend:

 

The American Institute of Architects Elevates DaytonianTerry Welker to College of Fellows

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Welker_TerryThe 2016 Jury of Fellows of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) elevated Terry Welker to its prestigious College of Fellows, an honor awarded to members who have made significant contributions to the profession.Welker will be honored at an investiture ceremony at the 2016 National AIA Convention in Philadelphia in May.

The Fellowship program was developed to elevate those architects who have made a significant contribution to architecture and society and who have achieved a standard of excellence in the profession. Election to fellowship not only recognizes the achievements of architects as individuals, but also their significant contribution to architecture and society on a national level.

Since AIA Dayton was formed in 1899, Terry is the fifth architect from the Dayton region to be elevated to the AIA College of Fellows. Out of a total AIA membership of nearly 88,000, there are over 3,200 distinguished with this honor. Nationally, there were 149 architects elevated to Fellow this year, including three from Ohio with one from Dayton.

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Terry Welker, FAIA, is an architect/sculptor serving the Dayton region as the Chief Building Official for the City of Kettering since 2000. He teaches fellow architects, engineers and construction professionals how to navigate the complexities of building codes and use them to serve their clients in the interest of good design and urban planning.

He is recognized by the AIA College of Fellows for his contribution to the practice of architecture, his work as a sculptor, and his lifelong dedication to the arts as a community volunteer. He was recently a feature artist on ThinkTV’s Art Show and is currently creating a large sculpture, Fractal Rain, for the Main Metro Library (see www.welkerstudio.com). A past President of AIA Dayton and AIA Ohio, he has also served on boards of the Dayton Visual Arts Center, Film Dayton and the Boy Scouts of America. He currently serves on Kettering’s Art in Public Places Committee.

The Perfect Valentine’s Day Gift

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blue-heart-clipart-pT56r86TBWith only two days left, the House of Bread is looking to break a fundraising record during its fourth annual Blue Hearts Campaign.

 

Executive Director Melodie Bennett says this year’s fundraiser is unlike others of the past.

 

“What’s fantastic about this year is that we have a good friend to us, a donor, who said ‘Hey, I’m in a pretty good position in life and I’m really fortunate that I’m in a spot where I can give back, and so I will match all of the donations that are made.’”

 

Bennett continues, “I said you know that could be $4,000 or $8,000, and she said ‘I have no limit of what I can do for you during this four day campaign.’”

 

As of yesterday afternoon the total amount raised was just over $3,800. Bennett says the most money raised during any Blue Hearts Campaign is $8,000. With the fundraiser running until Sunday, and the guarantee that all contributions will be matched, the organization could see it’s best Valentine’s Day yet.

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House of Bread, a non-profit community kitchen located on Dayton’s west side, is unlike any other area charitable organization addressing hunger in the Miami Valley. Volunteers and staff serve a “hot, nutritious, lunchtime meal” to anyone in need, 365 days a year. In the first five weeks of 2016, the kitchen served over 10,000 meals.

 

Bennett says the February campaign began in an effort to fund the kitchens needs during the winter months after a peak of donations around Christmas.

 

“We designed it [The Blue Hearts Campaign] around Valentine’s Day because we find that a lot of people think about us at Christmastime, but come February or March, even a little into April, we’re not on top of mind for people,” Bennett says.

 

While the non-profit receives private and corporate food donations, the costs of operation are covered mostly through fundraising events like this one.

 

Bennett explains how the House of Bread is no different than any other house.  “Think about your house and all the expenses you incur in its daily operation. When it comes to keeping the lights on, when it comes to hot water so you can wash dishes, when it comes to having electricity and or gas so that your home is heated in the winter. The House of Bread has all the expenses that you have of operating your home just on a much larger scale.”

To give online, click here for the House of Bread website.

Amazon.com’s Top 20 Most Romantic U.S. Cities- Dayton Included!

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As couples from Seattle to Savannah prepare to celebrate Valentine’s Day with loved ones, Amazon.com today revealed its annual list of the Top 20 Most Romantic Cities in the U.S.  Dayton, which was ranked 7th last year slid down the list to the 19th spot.  Guess we need to step our romance up, and with Valentine’s weekend on the horizon we’ve got some suggestions for local celebrating.

The list is determined by a compilation of sales data from cities with more than 100,000 residents on a per capita basis and includes purchases of romance novels and relationship books (both Kindle and print); romantic comedy movies (DVDs and digital); a curated list of romantic music, including artists like Barry White, Maxwell, Miguel, and Luther Vandross (CDs and MP3 format); as well as the sales of sexual wellness products.  romance Collage

The Top 20 Most Romantic Cities in the U.S. are:
1. Alexandria, Va. 11. Atlanta, Ga.
2. Miami, Fla. 12. Salt Lake City, Utah
3. Knoxville, Tenn. 13. Scottsdale, Ariz.
4. Orlando, Fla. 14. Everett, Wash.
5. Vancouver, Wash. 15. Gainesville, Fla.
6. Cincinnati, Ohio 16. Seattle, Wash.
7. Columbia, S.C. 17. Wilmington, N.C.
8. Pittsburgh, Pa. 18. Rochester, N.Y.
9. Round Rock, Texas 19. Dayton, Ohio
10. Ann Arbor, Mich. 20. Bellevue, Wash.

Some of the interesting finding in Amazon’s romantic data revealed that:

• Customers turned to Amazon Echo to set the mood, with Can’t Get Enough of Your Love, Babe coming in as the most requested Barry White song.

• Virginia is for lovers, with Alexandria, Va., reclaiming its position as the most romantic city after five heartbreaking years away from the top spot.

• Number three, Knoxville, Tenn., is keeping up its reputation as a city of love — ranking in the top three for the past five years in a row.

• Miami, Fla. knows how to keep the passion alive, with the city purchasing the most sexual wellness products.

• Love’s brewing in Washington, with four cities making the list this year: Vancouver, Everett, Seattle and Bellevue.

• Sin City is saying hello from the other side, with Las Vegas, Nev. falling off the top 20 this year.

Whether looking to set the mood or evoke the thrilling feeling of love this Valentine’s Day, customers can browse the Amazon Books Editors’ curated collection of love stories at amazon.com/150lovestories, watch their favorite romance film on Prime Video, and also enjoy Prime Music’s 50 Great Love Songs playlist.

Dayton Metro Library Names New Nonprofit Resource Librarian

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Susan Rodenberg Nonprofit organizations in the Miami Valley have a new ally in Susan Rodenberg, recently appointed as Nonprofit Resource Librarian at the Dayton Metro Library. Rodenberg previously served as a nonprofit Development Director and Executive Director at nonprofits in Cincinnati, Ohio, including the Civic Garden Center, Mental Health Services East, Fernside Center for Grieving Children and the Hearing Speech and Deaf Center of Greater Cincinnati.

“I’ve spent my entire career raising funds and friends for organizations whose missions incite my passion,” said Rodenberg. “I am eager to meet and work with the nonprofit community in the Miami Valley.”

Rodenberg’s experience includes grant writing, holding special events, conducting annual campaigns, and seeking corporate sponsorships and grants. She has recently relocated from Cincinnati to the city of Dayton.

“I am so committed to Dayton that I’ve taken residence in a downtown loft,” she said. “I am able to walk to work, the arts, the Oregon District, Second Street Market and the other wonderful amenities and attractions in downtown Dayton.”

The Dayton Metro Library provides expert guidance, free workshops, guest speakers and other services to area nonprofits seeking information and assistance with fundraising, grant writing, board development, planning and other areas of concern. A monthly email newsletter offers information on upcoming programs, grant opportunities and more.

For more information on the Library’s Nonprofit Resources, contact Susan Rodenberg at [email protected] or call (937) 496-8624.

Austin Landing Cooking Class Features Oils & Balsamics

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Chef House, Big Ragu and Hungry Jax cook up a storm of flavors

Calling all foodies and cooks!  Got flavor infused Olive Oils?  How about flavored Balsamic vinegar?  This class does!

On February 17th, The Food Adventures Crew is teaming with The Spicy Olive to bring you a one night,  one-of-a-kind cooking experience.

Attendees can sit back, relax and enjoy seven different plates.  Each one made with fresh olive oils and balsamics, of different specialty flavors.  This is not a “hands on” class, but each dish will be prepared step by step by 3 different cooks, and recipes will be supplied.

Now is your chance to check out the Spicy Olive Oil store and hang out all evening with the Food Adventure Crew!

Join The Big Ragu, Hungry Jax and Chef House as they share some of their favorite dishes.

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

WHAT:  FOOD ADVENTURE COOKING CLASS at THE SPICY OLIVE

Shrimp Scampi is one of 7 plates being served

WHERE: The Spicy Olive at Austin Landing – 3650 RIGBY ROAD MIAMISBURG, OHIO 45342

WHEN:  Wed Feb 17th, at 6:30pm

COST: $35 per person, limited seating – call 937-247-5969 for tickets

*** PLEASE NOTE, YOU CAN BRING YOUR OWN WINE, BOOZE, ETC. to THIS EVENT !

 

HERE IS OUR “MUST EAT” MENU in order by courses:

 1) Appetizer: Prosciutto skewers: Hungry Jax will demo a very simple, yet delicious app, skewering prosciutto, fresh mozz, and cantaloupe and drizzled with espresso balsamic.

2) Salad: Winter fruit salad: Lee Anne will teach how to use supreme blood oranges. The salad will include: Blood oranges, Minneola tangelos and grapefruit with pistachio, goat cheese, fresh herbs and drizzled with the Sicilian lemon white balsamic.

3) Side: Big Ragu will demo Savannah style hoe cakes, using Butter infused olive oil, drizzled with locally made maple syrup.

Join us at Austin Landig

4) Entree: Hungry Jax will cook up her Linguine pomodoro with grilled chicken, utilizing the traditional balsamic as well as your pesto!

5) Entree: Big Ragu will be serving up his awesome Shrimp scampi, over rice, using Garlic infused olive oil and Milanese flavored oil as well for an Italian twist.

6) Entree: Chef House will make us drool with her Pork tenderloin: Pan seared pork tenderloin medallions with a whole grain mustard and Vermont maple balsamic sauce. Served with grilled squash and zucchini.

7) Dessert: Hungry Jax wraps it up with her Chocolate balsamic cupcakes with fresh raspberry buttercream

 

Please join us for this 7 plate Food Adventure in cooking!  Come try the various dishes made with the freshest olive oils and balsamics in Dayton.  Browse the Spicy Olive Store and take advantage of specials.

We will have door prizes, trivia, and fun giveaways.  The class promises to be delicious and fun.

** IMPORTANT: Seating is VERY limited, so call 937-247-5969 to reserve your spot!

For more info on Food Adventures, please check out their Facebook page with over 6,000 loyal fans by clicking HERE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mystery Monday – February 8, 2016

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Welcome to Week 2 of Mystery Mondays. So that first one was pretty easy, with 95% of you who entered getting it right!  The answer to Week One’s Mystery Photo is: The roof of The Dayton Art Institute‘s rotunda. Congratulations to our first winner Mark Bailey, who will be enjoying two pizza’s courtesy of Rapid Fired Pizza. I took this photo on September 27, 2014 at sunset during DAI’s largest fundraiser Oktoberfest.

DMM Mystery Monday

Roof of The Dayton Art Institute’s rotunda; Photo credit: Tom Gilliam

Here are some interesting facts about The Dayton Art Institute’s architecture from our friend Eric Brockman (DAI’s Marketing & Communications Manager):

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Villa d’Este; Photo credit: neo_ii on Flickr

During its first decade in existence, The Dayton Art Institute outgrew its original home, a mansion located on Monument Avenue in downtown Dayton. Mrs. Julia Shaw Carnell, a prominent community leader, pledged nearly $2 million to create the landmark building that still houses the museum. Completed in 1930, the new building and its distinctive red-tiled roof was modeled after the Villa d’Este near Rome and the Villa Farnese at Caprarola in Italy, both examples of sixteenth century Italian Renaissance architecture.

Villa Farnese; Photo credit: _pek_ on Flickr

Villa Farnese; Photo credit: _pek_ on Flickr

The museum facility was designed by prominent museum architect Edward B. Green of Buffalo. Today, The Dayton Art Institute’s architecturally and historically significant facility is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This photograph shows the roof of the museum’s rotunda, which was added during an extensive renovation in the mid-1990s.

We challenge you to tell us where in the Dayton area this photo was taken by filling out the form below.  We’ll do a random drawing from all those with a correct answer and the winner will get 2 pizzas from Rapid Fired Pizza.

Enter here:   http://goo.gl/forms/dyU55fzc48

We’ll post the winner next Monday with details about the photo as well as a new photo to challenge your knowledge of the Dayton area.

Thanks for playing and good luck.  Winner will receive Rapid Fire Pizza gift certificates.

Here’s our Mystery Photo for Week Two:

DMM Mystery Monday-2

Photo by Tom Gilliam of DaytonGram & Tom Gilliam Photography.

Ashes to Go – Taking Ash Wednesday to the Streets

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For many, finding time during the week to attend church can be quite a challenge. But what if church came to you? On Ash Wednesday, February 10, Ginghamsburg Church will be offering “Ashes to Go,” a new approach to a centuries-old Christian tradition, at Courthouse Square in downtown Dayton from 11am-1:30pm.

Ginghamsburg Church is part of a nationwide movement that has clergy and lay people visiting transit stops, street corners, coffee shops and college campuses to mark the foreheads of interested passers-by with ashes and invite them to repent of past wrongdoing and seek forgiveness and renewal.

In the Christian tradition, Ash Wednesday marks the start of the holy season of Lent, a time for reflection and repentance in preparation for the celebration of Easter. For centuries, Christians have received a cross of ashes from palm leaves on the face at the beginning of the Lenten season as a reminder of mortal failings and an invitation to receive God’s forgiveness. Ashes are applied to the forehead, often with the words “Repent, and believe in the Gospel.” “Ashes to Go” provides the opportunity to participate in that tradition for people who have lost their connection to a church, or have never participated before.

Ingrid McIntyre receives ashes from street chaplain, Lindsey Krinks. About 30 people gathered as a community to share in the Ash Wednesday liturgy and to raise awareness of those suffering from homelessness and poverty. McIntyre is a member of Christ United Methodist Church in Franklin, Tenn. Photo by Kathleen Barry, UMNS

Ingrid McIntyre receives ashes from street chaplain, Lindsey Krinks. About 30 people gathered as a community to share in the Ash Wednesday liturgy and to raise awareness of those suffering from homelessness and poverty. McIntyre is a member of Christ United Methodist Church in Franklin, Tenn. Photo by Kathleen Barry, UMNS

“Ashes to Go” is about bringing spirit, belief and belonging out from behind church doors, and into the places where we go every day. “It’s a simple event with deep meaning, drawing on centuries of tradition and worship to provide a contemporary moment of grace,” says Pastor Rosario Picardo, Executive Pastor at Ginghamsburg Church.

“As people get busier and busier, we need the church in new and non-traditional ways. We especially need reminders of forgiveness in the tough places of our working lives. The people who accept ashes on the street are often people longing to make a connection between their faith and the forces of daily life, and “Ashes to Go” helps them feel that connection,” Picardo continues.

In addition to offering ashes and prayers, the church is offering free food from PA’s Pork, which will be on location at Courthouse Square in downtown Dayton from 11am-1:30pm.  They will have pork as well as a vegetarian option and a gluten-free option while supplies last.

Contact Pastor Rosario Picardo, Executive Pastor of New Church Development and Senior Pastor at The Point Campus of Ginghamsburg Church, [email protected] or 937-667-1069 for more information about “Ashes to Go” in downtown Dayton, Ash Wednesday, February 10 from 11am-1:30pm.

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For more information about Ginghamsburg Church, visit their website—ginghamsburg.org.

Ginghamsburg Church is committed to changing the world, serving over 60,000 people annually in Miami and Montgomery Counties through its outreach services. Since 2005, the congregation has invested $7 million into sustainable humanitarian projects in the Sudan and South Sudan. A member of the West Ohio Conference of United Methodist Churches, the church has campuses located at Tipp City – 6759 S County Rd 25A, Tipp City, OH 45371; Fort McKinley – 3721 W. Siebenthaler Avenue, Dayton, OH 45406 and The Point, 506 E. Main Street, Trotwood, OH 45426.

 

 

Dayton: What’s the Big Idea?

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934168_1087183221322572_4339918664371915982_nDayton: What’s the Big Idea? The Collaboratory, Dayton’s Civic Innovation Lab, wants to find out! They are hosting an open house and idea exchange, and they are inviting YOU and your ideas!

The Collaboratory, located in downtown’s Courthouse Square, is focused on building a more thriving region—one where people feel more purposeful, more connected and more optimistic—requires bold thinking and fearless action. While there is much we can be proud of in our community, nibbling around the edges is not going to move the needle in terms of unleashing all of our indigenous talent and generating a whole new portfolio of economic, social and creative capital opportunities.

The Collaboratory is inviting all of Dayton’s Dreamers & Doers to share their bold ideas and connect with other like-motivated citizen-dreamers to imagine and begin to act upon becoming the best Dayton we can be. As leaders at The Collaboratory say: We don’t need an institution to tell us what’s next. We don’t need to ask for permission. Rather we need to share our passions and forge collaborations that are only possible when we get beyond our traditional circles. Come, and be part of the change you want to see.

How to go? Wednesday February 10th 4-7pm at The Collaboratory at 33 N Main St Dayton OH. Free event!

You can also learn more about The Collaboratory on a Gem City Podcast episode here.

“The best way to predict the future is to design it.” – Buckminster Fuller

Proto BuildBar a Finalist for SXSW’s 2016 Interactive Innovation Awards

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egLfiLeProto BuildBar—part 3D printing lab, part electronic maker space, and part café—has been chosen as a finalist for South By Southwest’s 2016 Interactive Innovation Awards in the category of “Innovative 3-DIY.”

According to SXSW, the finalists in the “Innovative 3-DIY” category are picked based on “making 3D printing technology more accessible or affordable, or to the Maker using such technology in new and exciting ways.” The Interactive Innovation Awards serve as a celebration of the most exciting and innovative developments in our hyper-connected world.

The winners for this year’s 19th annual ceremony will be crowned on Tuesday, March 15th in Austin, TX. The proceedings will be hosted by NYC-based comic, actress and co-host of truTV’s “Hack My Life” Brooke Van Poppelen and musician Julian Velard.

 

 Not been to Proto?  Not sure what it’s all about?  We suggest taking one of their classes:

 

Proto 3d Printing Class

The class is a great way for folks to get an introduction to 3d printing: developing experience and an understanding of the technology and how it can be used to enhance their education and current field of work.  It will be a fun and exciting class for all ages.  Makers under 10 years old must be accompanied by a parental unit.

Students will receive a background on the history of 3D-printing, will get an introductory lesson on computer-aided design, and will print that design on a Makerbot Replicator 2 that the student set-up for printing on their own.  Upon completion, the student should feel comfortable in the use of CAD and 3D-printing technologies to unlock the creative energies in their mind!

Cost for the class is $75.  This includes 2-hours of instruction from a Proto Expert, a 3D Printing Field Manual, a Proto t-shirt, and a small print of the student’s creation.  Space for each class is extremely limited to allow for a great amount of personal instruction.

Tuesday, February 9 2016 5:30 PM — 7:30 PM
Tuesday, February 23 2016 5:30 PM — 7:30 PM

solderingCouples Soldering Night


Sign you and your sweetie up for a romantic night: complete with a bottle of wine, teamwork, and 752 degrees of hot soldering action!  Included in the package is your choice of a bottle of wine, our popular Love Tester soldering kit, and an hour of maker bench time with instruction with our Proto experts.

*Only one ticket needed per couple.

Friday, February 12 2016 4:00 PM — 10:00 PM
Saturday, February 13 2016 4:00 PM — 10:00 PM
Sunday, February 14 2016 1:00 PM — 6:00 PM

 

starwarsStar Wars & Ratios!

Supplement your child’s school experiences with our exciting learning series.  Each course is a 1.5 hour educational session tying the interests of kids with STEM-related skills.  Specifically aimed the middle-school age group, your child will learn basic concepts in 3d modeling:  scaling and sizing a 3d object, manipulating that object in three dimensions, and the process of 3d printing that object.  It’s sure to be an exciting time for your child and we hope it lights a fire within them to explore more.

Get your child excited about STEM concepts with our newest Star Wars class!  It is a course based around the mathematical concepts of ratios and proportions.  Using simple fractions, your child will learn how to take small and large objects from the Star Wars universe and scale them to a size more managable for printing on a MakerBot 3d printer.  Afterwards, they will get to print their favorite object to take home as a souvenir!

Wednesday, February 10 2016 5:00 PM — 6:30 PM
Wednesday, February 24 2016 5:00 PM — 6:30 PM
You’ll want to register for these classes early, most of them sell out!  For more info head to the Proto website and go build something amazing!

Welcome to Mystery Mondays

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DaytongramTom Gilliam  has taken thousands of photos all over the Miami Valley.  You may be familiar with his DaytonGram Account, where he shares some of the most beautiful pictures of our region.  From history to events, DaytonGram is there telling the story and showing you Dayton the way it’s meant to be seen.  Perhaps you’ve attended one of his DaytonGram InstaMeets where he arranges special access for photographers to join him in a photo shoot in places the public usually doesn’t have full access to.  Tom’s love of Dayton is clearly shown through his pictures.

DaytonMostMetro.com is now partnering with Tom to share some more of his photos in a fun and educational way!

“Hello. My name is Tom Gilliam. This is my very first written contribution to Dayton Most Metro. Over the last few years, I’ve contributed photography for various articles and social media for DMM.

Today is the debut of Mystery Mondays. Each week, I will be sharing a photo that I’ve taken in the Dayton area.  We challenge you to tell us where this photo was taken by filling out the form below.  We’ll do a random drawing from all those with a correct answer and the winner will get 2 pizza’s from Rapid Fired Pizza.”

Enter here:   http://goo.gl/forms/dyU55fzc48

We’ll post the winner next Monday, with details about the photo, as well as a new photo to challenge your knowledge of the Dayton area.

Thanks for playing and good luck!

Here’s our Mystery Photo for Week One:

DMM Mystery Monday

UpDayton To Grow Impact in 2016

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updaytonUpDayton, an initiative launched in 2007 to make Dayton a magnet for young and creative talent, held their 2016 Launch Event on January 26th at the Schuster Center, following the Dayton Development Coalition’s Annual Meeting. UpDayton leaders detailed the ways that young professionals, college campuses, businesses and community organizations can join the movement to create change in the city.
Dayton Mayor Nan Whaley stressed the city’s commitment to strong partnership and challenged young people to get involved, “We need your help recreating the downtown space that is our authentic urban core.” UpDayton works closely with the city and county governments, as well as other area organizations and non-profits to accomplish their mission of talent attraction and retention.
The growing support from community partners and sponsors has also allowed UpDayton to experiment with new ideas and formats as well as further develop its Discover Dayton program. The program is an effort to engage local employers and college campuses by providing perception-changing experiences of the Dayton region for students and young professionals.

“In 2015 we encountered hundreds of young Daytonians excited and ready to make their mark on

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Updayton Director AJ Ferguson

Dayton’s transformation. They sense a new era beginning in Dayton and know it needs their energy and ideas,” said AJ Ferguson, the organization’s director. UpDayton wants incoming volunteers to discover a variety of opportunities in both what UpDayton organizes and what others are doing to make a difference in Dayton. Ferguson adds, “UpDayton fuels a movement far bigger than itself. If Dayton wants to attract the next generation of talent, then the people and approaches of the next generation have to
permeate everything our community is doing.”

Dayton Development Coalition leaders invited UpDayton to partner in their annual meeting for two reasons: to drive interest among young professionals in the bigger picture of the region’s economy and to encourage businesses and community organizations to support and engage with UpDayton. Specifically, UpDayton invites more employers to participate in its Discover Dayton program. UpDayton also announced plans to hold a Talent Symposium in late summer. This event would bring employers and
community leaders together to discuss the region’s talent needs.
UpDayton also announced the date of the 2016 UpDayton Summit and a change to the event format. This annual event brings young creatives together to share their needs and concerns for the region, and to vote on ideas to make the Miami Valley a better place to live, work and play. Winning ideas receive $1000 seed money from UpDayton and a team of interested volunteers. Along with the move to an evening event, the Summit format is changing to better reflect the needs of the community and will feature a “Shark-Tank/TED Talk” format with project pitches. The goal is to have project ideas be further refined than at past summits to allow them to have a stronger start and more impact in the community. The 2016 UpDayton Summit will take place the evening of Thursday, April 28th.

Cincinnati Reds Visit the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force

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140108-F-JK230-001National Museum of the U.S. Air Force visitors will have the opportunity to meet members of the Cincinnati Reds organization on Jan. 30 from 11 am – 2 pm.

Catcher Devin Mesoraco; president of baseball operations Walt Jocketty; minor league pitcher Cody Reed; former catcher Corky Miller; chief operating officer Phil Castellini; broadcasters Thom Brennaman and Jim Day and mascot Mr. Redlegs are scheduled to appear at the museum stop.

The visit will begin with a question and answer session, followed by an autograph session and a chance to take photos of the Reds at the museum. Seating and autographs will only be guaranteed for the first 450 fans in attendance. Standing room will also be available for additional guests who wish to listen to the question and answer session.

One lucky fan will receive two tickets to the 2016 Opening Day game vs. the Philadelphia Phillies on April 4.

Museum doors open at 9 am. the-reds-are-working-on-extending-one-of-their-better-hitters-from-2014

The visit to the museum by the Reds is part of the 2016 Winter Caravan, which will make a total of 16 stops in five states, covering 3,300 miles. 

The National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, located at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base near Dayton, Ohio, is the world’s largest military aviation museum. With free admission and parking, the museum features more than 360 aerospace vehicles and missiles and thousands of artifacts amid more than 17 acres of indoor exhibit space. Each year about one million visitors from around the world come to the museum. For more information, visit www.nationalmuseum.af.mil.

City Signs MOU to Begin Arcade Redevelopment

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The City of Dayton has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Cross Street Partners (Baltimore, MD) and Dayton-based Miller-Valentine Group to begin redevelopment efforts for the Dayton Arcade.

Cross Street Partners, in conjunction with Miller-Valentine, is in the early stages of seeking housing tax credits that, if successful, will provide 60 affordable housing units targeted for artistic and creative residents in downtown Dayton.

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photo courtesy of Tom Gilliam.

These units would be the first such opportunity in the Dayton region. The first phase of the project will focus on the historic Commercial Building (Fourth at Ludlow) and the Fourth Street apartment building.

“When I started the Arcade Task Force, my biggest concern was to ensure that our efforts would give us enough time to make the best decision for our taxpayers,” said Mayor Nan Whaley. “I am excited that we have partnered with a developer who has a long track record in successful adaptive reuse of historic buildings and urban mixed use development.”

“The state historic tax credit program, combined with federal historic tax incentives, will help develop the Arcade into something that is new, different and engaging,” said Steve Petitjean, Senior Vice President & Market Manager for Fifth Third Bank and Arcade Task Force co-chair.

An application to the Ohio Housing Finance Agency will be submitted in February of this year, with the hope that the project will receive an award later this year and begin development in 2017.

Last year, at the recommendation of the Arcade Task Force, the City Commission voted to award a contract valued at $700,000 to Miller-Valentine Group’s commercial construction division for emergency repairs to the multi-building complex.

David Bohardt, Arcade Task Force co-chair and Executive Director of St. Vincent de Paul said, “By making the necessary emergency repairs, we have given the developer team a chance to assemble a sound project and secure any financing they might need.”

The seven-building, 400,000-sq.-ft. property is a challenging project for any developer. However, the unique grouping of buildings and inspirational architecture represents a unique place-making opportunity for Dayton.

“The Arcade has a storied history and tremendous potential as a key anchor for downtown Dayton,” said, Bill Struever, Principal, Cross Street Partners. “We (Cross Street) take great joy in creating spaces that bring people and ideas together to create magical, high energy places in cities like Dayton.”

Capitalizing on the diverse pool of artistic and creative activities and functions in the Dayton area represents an opportunity to rethink the Arcade as a center for creativity. The upper floors of the buildings are well-suited for a mix of market-rate and affordable residential uses. The presence of creative residents and activities may inspire other investments.

Ed Blake, CEO Commercial, Miller-Valentine Group, said, “Dayton is not unlike many cities that basically have a stock of beautiful and historic buildings that are sitting empty and deteriorating. Once this project is completed, we hope the Arcade will serve as blueprint for other redevelopment ideas.”

Oregon Printing Communications Wins Big in National Print & Design Contest

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GPA, the market leader in substrate solutions for offset, digital, and wide format printing, announces the winners of their 2015 Print & Design Contest, which honors excellence and creativity in printing. Companies across North America submitted their entries on GPA substrates to compete in eight product categories for the Best of Category award; from the eight winning entries, one was chosen as Best of Show.  Oregon Printing Communications won this year’s Best of Show award for their creative spin on a corporate capabilities booklet in the Ultra Digital® Papers 2 category.

 The company, located in Dayton, OH, wanted to create a marketing piece that went beyond a list of services. They wanted to truly inspire their clients through stunning design, innovative printing techniques, and unique substrates. Amanda Pond, Marketing & Development Manager at Oregon, created the concept and worked with their digital print team leader, Jim Hoelscher, to bring it to life. The result is a striking booklet that cleverly plays with ink, substrates, opacity, light, and texture.

“Our main goal is to inspire people to do new and different things with print, and that’s exactly what our winning piece does. Seeing something like this win Best of Show is a tremendous amount of validation for the work that we do,” shared Judd Plattenburg, President at Oregon Printing Communications.

Oregon used five different GPA substrates in their booklet, including pearlescent, color, translucent, photo and uncoated papers. Plattenburg shared why they chose GPA papers for their project: “GPA has so many cool substrates for our HP Indigo press, available in the quantities we need, when we need them. That gives me the confidence that we can create groundbreaking pieces that inspire our customers, which helps them succeed. As a result, we become their trusted partner and share in their success.”

GPA’s Print & Design Contest is an annual opportunity for printers and end-users to showcase their best work and gain industry recognition. For a submission to be eligible, it must be from an actual job or promotion that was printed by a GPA customer on a qualified GPA substrate within the past year. This year marks a decade of the competition, which grows bigger and better each year, yielding new and unique examples of opportunities that GPA substrates create.

‘Points for Prizes’ Euchre Tournament to benefit Hannah’s Treasure Chest

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arzkmr1g3y4tm5nnctkmu683t1k7rab8Join Hannah’s Treasure Chest on January 29, 2016 from 6-10 PM for our 3rd annual Euchre Tournament at Star City Brewing Company in Miamisburg.

Every point you score can be used at the conclusion of the tournament to bid on items donated by local businesses. Earn a 10 point bonus by donating a new or gently used children’s item or by making a financial gift!