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Tan Envy..What To Know And How To Get It!

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First thing is first, I dont want this article to scare people. Any of my friends and family who know me well will all say I can be intense about suncare and skin cancer. While I am overly cautious about my skin it also very important to me to make people aware that there is a real risk with our thinning ozone layer of skin problems. Now I am not going to sit here and type the A,B,C,D’s of moles to you in fact if I went by that chart I would covered in scar’s from skin removals. What I will tell you is what I have learned about skin/sun care and also safe ways to have a golden glow.

Dr. Magdy Migally and his brother Nabil have been my long time dermatolgists. I started getting skin checks when I was a teenager with my mom. When my mom was in her early thirties she went to the ER for an asthma attack while she was there a nurse pointed out a spot on her back that she suggested be checked. Thats when the Migally brothers came into our lives. He quickly removed it but with confident assurance said, “even if it is cancer we removed deep into the tissue and it will be fine” That was my first experience with a doctor that seemed so calm about something that could be very serious. He has such a calming manner and makes you feel like its really going to be okay. It turned out my mom’s mole was not cancer but it was pre cancerous which meant from now on not only would she get regular checks but also be more careful in the sun. As a kid that was very impressionable to me and I cant lie that I have an intense fear of skin cancer. With that in mind I will also admit that I have used tanning beds and laid in the sun my fair share but I do go get my body checked head to toe every August and I am now tanning bed free.

Dr. Migally has always been very straight forward about skin issues with me. Everytime I go in I am convinced that I have an evil mole waiting to ruin my life. I have had one removed in 15 years and it was fine. “It’s not the snake in the grass, it is the lion in the far distance” that is what Dr. Migally has drilled into my brain. Skin Cancer is a very slow growing disease that can easily be prevented with yearly checks. It also important to do your own checks at home to watch for changes. Color is the most important thing to look for anything black, purple or bluish needs to go for sure. Also watch for dry patches of skin that dont go away with treatment, sores that wont heal and moles that are getting bigger, changing, bleeding or itching. Again the thing to remember is that these are the warning signs, just make an appointment, get it removed and go on with your day.

So how do you still get that healthy tan we all love? There are lots of ways now and it’s easier than ever! My first rule is tanning beds are not good for you! I dont care what the companies and lotions say, the World Health Organization has stated that people who tan in tanning beds are 75% more at risk for skin cancer than the average person. The fastest growing group of people affected by this are women 15 to 25. Teenage girls are 80% more at risk for skin cancer than any other group and have a 1 in 5 chance of finding a melanoma on them before the age of 30! This is a scary statistic and is reflected by the tanning industry. So yes tanning beds are bad for you even the occasional session is equal to 10 hours in the sun.

What about self tanning? I used to self tan and it requires dedication. The exfoliating and mositurizing just never works out for me. I know people who are great at it and never have an uneven spot. I always seemed to have a darker elbow or a strange line on my neck. There are lots of great product lines out there now that even have paint rollar type applicators so you can get your back. I am a fan of the Sun Labratories product line for both self tanning and airbrush tanning. The color is very natural and has never appeared orange on my skin plus they have that nifty rollar lol. The other great thing about the company is that you can go on their website and get samples to try before you buy. Visit http://www.sunlabsonline.com/index.html or you can purchase the line at Enhance Spa and Lash Studio in Springboro.

My choice of tan is now the airbrush. I was nervous the first time having never been fully airbrushed and hearing the horror stories of the spray tan. Susan, my airbrush artist was quick to answer all my questions and assured me I would not turn orange. She had me put lotion on my feet and hands and I could either just wear underwear or tuck my bra straps for the application but lets face it I work at a boudoir studio so I went for just the bottoms lol. You stand in a little tent and the artist will direct you when you when to turn and move to get an even application. I ended up doing three rounds on my entire body which gave me more color than I could have ever achieved myself and it was stunning. The color was natural, didnt streak, and was dry within seconds. I got the tan at 2:00 on a Saturday and that evening around 8:45 boxed in the Dayton Knockout in front of a thousand people. No streaks, no orange shirt, just a perfect glowing tan that my opponent Jen Dean from Dayton History also got earlier in the day. Her result was the same, perfect glowing tan. It lasted for me about 3 to 4 days but I shower twice a day and exfoliate regulary. This service will run you about 45.00 but the price is worth it if you have a special event and many times spas will run specials on airbrush tanning. Tips before you go: dont wear makeup, dont use lotion and be sure and shower/shave before hand. Many places offer this service but since I am a fan of the Sun Lab line I get mine done at Enhance Spa in Springboro with Susan.

Finally the spray tan or the poor man’s airbrush as I call it. I recently tried this for the first time and did the same prep as I mentioned above. Once again I have friends who have had it done and it looks great but for me it was a little intense. I went to LA Tan for mine and was instructed to put way more than I thought I could even need of the barrier cream on my hands and feet. I stood in front of this giant spraying machine and waited for the magic. A friend of mine had told me to do a twisting motion so that the application was more even. I did everything right…..I thought. I went home and went to bed once it dried and in the morning I looked like a mess!! Orange lines on my arms, hands that were orange and my face looked like a bad jersey extra. What to do? Google of coarse! I searched and found out lemon juice, exfoliating and showering would help. I went to get in the shower and watched as the orange ran down the drain and I frantically scrubbed away at my skin. Once I got out it was better and managable but it was uneven. It has been a week today and the fading tan looks kinda like leprosy on me lol. I have patches on my legs and arms that are dotted orange and pale underneath. Maybe it works for some people, maybe I will try it again but for now the spray tan is not for me.

So the moral of this article is that there are plenty of safe ways to tan. You can get a healthy tan without baking yourself. Use an SPF with at least a 30 in it. (I use an 80) to keep your skin from getting burned or damaged,  I prefer the kids spray brands because they smell better. Get your skin checked!! I dont care if youre pale, tan, freckled or dont have a spot on you go and get a yearly exam.(most insurances cover this as preventive care)You dont have to avoid the sun you just have to be careful and like everything use moderation. Dr. Migally was very supportive of this article and would be more than happy to do body checks on anyone who is interested. He is located at 5212 Brandt Pike Suite A. Huber Heights , OH – 45424. 937-233-0748.

Air Camp Grows Future Aviation Leaders

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(Editor Note: the following was submitted by Scott Murphy)

Over the past few years, community leaders have a launched a number of new efforts that are helping put Dayton back on the map.  Initiatives to help our community become more immigrant friendly, secure Dayton as the Ohio hub for aerospace technology, and solidify our city as the starting place for the Road to the Final Four are big ideas (and many more) that help distinguish us from other cities.  We’ve realized that if we want people to think of Dayton, then we’ve got to give them something to think about.

Air Camp is another effort uniquely Dayton.  Started by local educators and retired Air Force and business community leaders, this program introduces middle school students from around the country to aviation and aeronautics.  Think Space Camp at Huntsville, AL, but for aeronautics and aviation at the birthplace of flight.  The intensive one week Air Camp combines the principles of aeronautics with hands on experience.  The program’s packed curriculum pulls together the many assets around the region that together distinguish Dayton as a world-leader in flight.

Want to get a young person excited about flight?  Show them airplanes… really cool ones.  Students visit the National Museum of the United States Air Force on the program’s first day and see firsthand how Dayton has been at the cutting edge in aviation since Orville and Wilbur made their historic flight in 1903.  Dayton remains on the cutting edge with the research that happens every day at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.  Air Camp shows students that almost all new developments in aerospace technology get their start or are at least impacted by researchers at Wright-Patt.  In Dayton at the Air Force Research Lab, new aerospace technology goes from theory to application – ideas turn into reality.  Program participants interact with these Air Force researchers and get a glimpse of what their future career could be like in science and technology.

Air Camp inspires and challenges its students with hands on learning in the principles of flight.  Participants get the unique opportunity to learn the basics of aeronautics by actually designing and testing a wing in a wind tunnel.  At Sinclair they participate in a half-day course on how to fly an airplane and get a thrill they’ll be sure to remember by piloting a motion-based flight simulator.  It’s one thing to understand the physical principles of how planes fly; it’s another thing to actually feel it by flying one yourself.  All Air Camp students get this opportunity at Wright Brothers Airport as a capstone activity near the end of the week.

Air Camp’s founders saw a nation-wide need for more scientists, engineers, and technicians.  People like Vince Russo, a retired Air Force Executive who chose to make Dayton his home after retirement, hope Air Camp will inspire middle school students to choose a research and technology related vocation.  Says Russo, “Our vision is to inspire students to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM).  Air Camp is a ‘wow’ experience grounded by a solid academic curriculum to help create a technology savvy workforce for the future.”

Thanks to Air Camp, when these students grow up they’ll not only be more likely to pursue a career in aviation and aeronautics, they’ll know that Dayton, OH is the place to do it.

Air Camp applications are being accepted now for the 2012 summer sessions scheduled for June 17-22, July 8-13, and July 22-27. Up to 40 students will be chosen for each session by a competitive application process. Applications are being accepted online through April 30 at www.aircampusa.com from students entering the seventh through ninth grades in fall 2012.

Questions?  Contact Tom Severyn at [email protected] to learn more.

Cash Mob the Oregon District this Saturday!

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Looking for a fresh way to support local businesses and meet new people at the same time? Be a part of Dayton’s first ever Cash Mob this Saturday, March 24th in the Oregon District! Show up at 521 E. Fifth Street at 5:00 PM and be ready to spend up to $20 at a nearby locally-owned retail shop! Afterward, Cash Mobbers are invited to show off their new purchases at Lucky’s Taproom! Mobbers will receive 20% off food and $1 off draft beers at Lucky’s.

What is a Cash Mob?

Cash Mobs create quick economic stimulus for local shop owners. They are similar to flash mobs but instead of dancing, you spend a few bucks supporting home-grown retailers and socialize afterward at a local watering hole (where some celebratory dancing may still occur). These events were started in Cleveland in 2011 and have since been held all over the world. Every Cash Mob shares the goal of supporting local businesses. March 24,2012 is the inaugural International Cash Mob Day and Dayton’s Cash Mob will be one of over 200 other mobs happening this Saturday. For more information on Cash Mobs, go to: www.cashmobs.wordpress.com

What can I buy at the Dayton Cash Mob?

To find out what retail shops are participating, you’ll just have to show up at 521 E. Fifth Street at 5 pm. Rest assured, you will be able to find whatever you are looking for and probably something you’re not, too! Products that will be available for purchase include: new and vintage clothing; original artwork; posters; jewelry; new and used books, music, and movies; new and vintage housewares; posters; specialty food items; unique gifts and accessories; bags, t-shirts, scarfs, bandanas, and more!

The first 25 Cash Mobbers will receive a free t-shirt from MerchFITS.  There will also be other free swag from participating retailers and MerchFITS. All participants will receive 20% off food and $1 off draft beers at Lucky’s.

How can I find more information?

Follow the Cash Mob on Twitter @CMDaytonOH and RSVP to the Facebook event. If you can’t make it but still want to support the event, retweet us to all your friends and share our Facebook event!

For more information, contact BAM! at [email protected]. The first ever Dayton Cash Mob is presented by BAM! Find more info on this new artist collective in Dayton at www.bamdayton.blogspot.com

CityFolk Volunteer Registration Now Open

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Volunteer for the 2012 Cityfolk Festival, you’ll have fun and get a pretty cool t-shirt, too!

The Cityfolk Festival depends on the help of nearly 1,000 volunteers to make the Festival hum. The festival will run from Fri, June 29th through Sun, July 1st this year.  Volunteers greet Festival visitors at the entrance gates, pour beer as part of the Beer Crew, make sure the artists and staff are well fed as members of the Hospitality Crew, and much, much more. There’s a volunteer job for everyone!

If you’re willing to work at least one 3 hour shift, they need your help! All volunteers receive training and a free Cityfolk Festival Volunteer t-shirt. This year they’re using a new registration system that will make it easier for you to check on your shifts, and will remember you from year to year. Simply click here to get started.

Want to know the schedule first? They’ll start announcing artists at the end of March, and share the schedule in May.

Small Effort: Big Effect

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There’s a lot of work to do to continue to make our region vibrant and exciting. Some jobs are so big and we as community members feel helpless to do anything.

This isn’t that kind of story.

Give here.

Before the Clean-Up

This is a story about a group of people who had a simple vision and they are getting it done! Last year at the 2011 updayton Summit, a Creative Communities team emerged with the idea that our neighborhoods are great assets to the community and they should be walkable, accessible and friendly. Nice idea, right? So, how do you DO something about it?

Safe and Accessible After Clean-Up

The Creative Communities team (CC) focused on the pedestrian walkway that crosses 35 and connects the historic neighborhoods of South Park and Oregon District. These two neighborhoods have active neighborhood associations, easy access to entertainment and recreation, and beautiful parks. A bridge connecting the two (and helping neighbors avoid 35 when traveling) makes perfect sense.

Unfortunately, no one wanted to walk over the walkway. Overgrown weeds, tight corners, and a general rusty broken-down look made it feel unsafe. CC came up with a big job for volunteers, but one they knew they could do and do well with the right support.

At the end of last summer they hosted a major clean-up day. It’s impressive what a little elbow grease can do to de-weed, clean and make the bridge a lot more appealing and usable. But they’re not done yet. They don’t want it ‘not ugly.’ They want to see it as a favorite place for community members to enjoy (especially with its close access to parks). It’s gettin’ prettified!

Wanna know where YOU come in? They need your help in three ways:

1) Come out for the follow-up clean up (prepping for the painting) on April 28.

2) Come out for the painting (grown-up paint by numbers = awesome) on May 5.

3) Help out the kick-starter campaign so they can get all the materials they need to make this happen and keep it going into the future. The thing about kick-starter: yeah, a big donation is awesome. But your $5 matched up with the donations from 10 other people giving $5 adds up pretty quick.

Here’s a video from YouTube that will help you know what to expect at the Paint Day this May. Don’t pass up being a part of this opportunity!

Bicycle Delivery and Messenger Service Now Open

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Dayton Cyclery, 506 Wayne Ave., is on the go in Dayton making deliveries to downtown residents, businesses and employees. The company serves all parts of downtown — including the Oregon Arts District, as well as the McPherson Town, St. Anne’s Hill and South Park neighborhoods and Miami Valley Hospital — delivering carry-out and grocery items from downtown restaurants and shops right to customers’ doors.

Dayton Cyclery can deliver any items less than 10 pounds for $5, and deliveries outside the primary service zone are $10. The business also sells cycling gear and offers a variety of bicycle repairs.

It’s open from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Call 223-2453.

South by Southwest Interactive: Emerging Ideas

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South by SouthWest Interactive was a huge discovery for me when I first attended in 2011. Everything was new and incredible. This year, I’m every bit as excited about all the new ideas and technology, and SXSW has definitely  delivered.

This year, I was selected to speak on a panel called “It’s Alive: Interactive Machines that Captivate”. South by Southwest has an intense selection process, so it was a huge honor for me. I was also excited to have accomplished co-panelists: Nathan Martin, CEO of Deeplocal, FK Funderburke from SapientNitro, Justin Bayer, founder of Welcome to College, and our moderator, Arundi Venkayya Cox, editor of Dayton B2B.

At SXSW, you never know how popular a session will be, but our room was full of people. I shared two of Real Art’s interactive machines, The Santa Claw and our Dip-A-Drip pitching machine for 7-Eleven. We had a lively discussion about the risks and rewards of interactive robotic projects, and each of us shared the ways other brands can develop campaigns that use these techniques. I was glad to see our panel discussion transition into a lot of great audience questions. I can’t think of any better way to kick off the SXSW experience. Our slideshow is available on Slideshare.

There are a lot of new ideas emerging this year, so I’m sharing a few favorites before heading out for a few more panels:

In-person Connections: Facebook connects many of us online. With the proliferation of smart phones that have geolocation tools, social apps are popping up that connect humans in the real world. The app Highlight is talked about a lot this year. Using GPS combined with a Facebook login, it shows you other people that are close by that share common interests. That is pretty handy at a large conference like this.

Data: There is still a lot of untapped potential in all the data generated by our online activities. Data visualization was an emerging trend last year. This week, Visual.ly announced the launch of their platform that allows anyone to easily create visualizations.

In case you’re not sure that data is an important focus:

“90% of the data in the world today has been created in the last two years alone.” – IBM

Dynamic Pricing: The growing mobile market is opening opportunities for retailers to engage customers and draw them offline, as well as to enable dynamic pricing. It’s been mentioned in a lot of talks, and two focused on it. One was from the founder of Loopt.com, the other session featured Julia Fitzgerald, Chief Digital Engagement Officer at Sears.

Transmedia: Storytelling through transmedia is a big theme this year. It represents the idea of storylines crossing platforms to reach fans in different ways, such as combining video with Twitter with an online chat. On Saturday, the producers of Bravo’s Top Chef shared the process behind creating the online Top Chef Last Chance Kitchen, where chefs could interact with an online audience for a chance to reappear on the show.

There are also a lot of creative promotions that aim to capture the attention of attendees. Here’s one, a twitter-connected vending machine that dispenses journals to anyone that follows @bohemianllc on Twitter.

I’m glad to still be here, finding new ideas and interesting people wherever I turn (some of them from Dayton!), and I’m headed back to more panels today to find more new technology to absorb.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Women in Business Networking to Recognize Miami Valley’s 2011 Top Women to Watch Nominees

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Miami Valley’s most influential women—as named February 2011 by Women in Business Networking as the Top 25 Women to Watch—will be honored during an awards ceremony and gala this Saturday, March 10. The Oscars-themed event will take place starting at 6:30 p.m., Dayton Country Club, 555 Kramer Avenue, Oakwood, Ohio.

Entering its fourth year, WiBN’s Top 25 Women to Watch program recognizes women from a notable list of candidates. This includes women who are exceptional in their roles, respected in their field, and causing more than a ripple in the public arena and in their communities. The ‘watchables’ are influential women who stand out for leadership, community service, and professional achievements.

“There are now 100 remarkable women on WiBN’s ‘watchable’ list, including the new group of 25 (named February 10, 2012). Many of these individuals will be attending the 2011 awards ceremony. WiBN is known for building relationships so women will achieve career and personal success through education, resources, and recognition”, says Jeanne Porter, WiBN founder and president.

Sponsors for the 2011 Top 25 Women to Watch gala are Deck the Walls, Kettering, and Windward Design Group LLC, Dayton/Eaton. Celebrity MC for the event is Michelle Kingsfield, WDTN-TV. Photography is being provided by Easterling Studios, Dayton. Live entertainment is planned for the evening.

Honorees from Top 25 Women to Watch 2011:

  • Debbie Agnew, Owner, Bella Garden Florals
  • Shondale Atkinson, CEO and Founder, The Mustard Seed Foundation
  • Regina Bier, Detective, Kettering Police Department / Scuba Program Coordinator, Adjunct Faculty Wright State University
  • Molly Bordonaro Hall, School Secretary, Fairborn Digital Academy
  • Sarah Carter, Principal, Pickrel, Schaeffer & Ebeling
  • Melissa Cutcher, Director of Business Development, Better Business Bureau
  • Shana Douglas, Global Marketing Digital Brand Strategist, La Senza
  • Amy Gantt, Owner, Lula Bell Designs
  • Lyn Hogrefe, Executive Director, Happy Hormone Cottage
  • Barbara Johnson, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Miami Valley Hospital
  • Iris Juergens, Development Director, St. Vincent DePaul
  • Michelle Kaye, Vice President & Community Relations Director, PNC Bank
  • Yvette Kelly-Fields, Executive Director, updayton / Owner and President, FundSource
  • Katrina Kittle, Author
  • Elizabeth Lenon Van Dine, Founder, Dayton Love 146
  • Jennifer Mason Andrade, Owner, Luv Bug Pet Nanny
  • April Mescher, Vice President of National Accounts, Excellence In Motivation
  • Cheryl Oliver, Executive Director, Oasis House
  • Beth Redden, Legacy Partnership Development Officer, The Dayton Foundation
  • Marta Rey, Owner/President, Marta Rey European Skin Care
  • Jennifer Reitz, Voice Pathologist, The Blaine Block Institute
  • Susan Sparks, Chief Business Development Officer, American Red Cross
  • Sasha VanDeGrift, Litigation Associate, Coolidge Wall
  • Marcia Venus, Owner/Principal, Venus Leadership
  • Teresa Zumwald, Owner/President, Zumwald & Company

About Women in Business Networking (WiBN)

WiBN—the leading organization for women in business—provides forums for building relationships so women will achieve career and personal success through education, resources, and recognition. WiBN’s circle of influence and frequent programs have reached more than 1,500 women living and working in the Greater Dayton, Ohio, region. Women from all walks of life participate in WiBN: leaders and employees of corporate, nonprofit and community organizations; entrepreneurs and small-business owners; and women in career transition. Founded in 2008, WiBN currently offers ten programs:

  • a weekly e-newsletter, Monday Morning Moments;
  • a weekly club of Toastmasters International, Downtown Morning Toasters;
  • a monthly Lunch N Learn with a featured speaker;
  • a monthly “Hot Topic” Koffee Talk with a facilitator;
  • monthly roundtables for small-business owners, Entrepreneur Groups;
  • a bimonthly social event, After5 Business Showcase, at a local venue;
  • a quarterly Leadership Series workshop, Winstitute;
  • an annual 25 Women to Watch recognition program;
  • an annual, daylong professional development conference; and
  • an annual, optional membership for event and member-to-member discounts, Status +Plus.

Dayton Invades Austin: SXSW

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Several Daytonians are headed for adventure this March in Austin, Texas. We’re going to the South by Southwest Interactive Conference (SXSW), one of the biggest music, film, and interactive design conferences in the country. If you’re into web design, development, social media, or mobile technology, SXSW is an exhilirating experience.

Last year, I attended and immersed myself in a buzz of information –  all the latest interactive technology and trends. At SXSW, you never stop learning. I reveled in this culture where my fellow attendees, some of the brightest in the industry, were just as passionate about design and interactivity as I am.

This year, I’m excited to join the roster of SXSW speakers, representing the team at Real Art. On Friday, I will speak on a panel called It’s Alive: Interactive Machines that Captivate, along with fellow Daytonians Justin Bayer, founder of WelcometoCollege.com, and Arundi Venkayya Cox, editor of the Dayton B2B. Joining us are two accomplished creatives, Nathan Martin from Deep Local, and FK Funderburke from Sapient Nitro. We will each present our projects that mash together digital media with physical machines, creating completely new types of experiences for people. For example, at Real Art, we built the world’s largest arcade claw game and invited the world to play over the internet. Arundi, our moderator, will lead our discussion on why these projects have been so successful for brands, the steps involved in a project like these, and what’s coming in the future for this interactive niche.

During the rest of the conference, I’ll gather as much information and inspiration as I can. The worlds of interactive design and social media move very quickly, so SXSW has a lot of ground to cover. With the SXSW Accelerator series, attendees can hear from the founders of new sites and apps, some of which haven’t even been launched yet. Last year, a few hot topics were the metrics and ROI of social media, geolocation apps, mobile payments, and augmented reality. This year, I’m hoping to hear about more things that haven’t even hit the major blogs yet. With increased smartphone usage and the mainstream expansion of social networks, there’s a lot of magic on the horizon.

Several other Dayton interactive developers are attending, this year, and Rob Tarr from Dayton firm Sparkbox will also be speaking. In addition, I’ll get to watch Dayton band The Motel Beds perform in a showcase. (I should mention that I’m especially excited for this since my husband, Tod Weidner is their bass player). The mix of music, film, and interactive gives SXSW a unique, creative energy.


Music news

I plan to share what I learn at SXSW as it happens on Twitter and through posts on Real Art’s blog. Follow @patricehall or @realart for the play-by-play.

 

Huber Heights to host Rehabarama 2012

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Okay, so officially it’s “Eco-Rehabarama”, not just “Rehabarama”, but the concept is the same: Older homes that have been rehabilitated, are open to the public. Rehabaramas and Citiramas have been in Dayton since 1993, when the very first Rehabarama was held in McPherson Town Historic District. What a treat it was to see those historic homes restored and updated. The whole neighborhood was energized, which was an added benefit. It’s true that once one neighbor starts to fix up their home, there is often a ripple effect throughout the neighborhood. It’s not so much keeping-up-with-the-Jones, but more seeing possibilities that we couldn’t see before. Enter Eco-Rehabarama.

For the first time in Rehabarama history, the tour will be held in a neighborhood outside the Dayton city limits. This year Eco-Rehabarama is in Huber Heights. Yes, that’s right, the brick ranch finally gets to strut its stuff. Before you roll your eyes, consider why this style home was chosen. From Home Builders Association of Dayton (HBA) Executive Director, Walt Hibner: “All those years ago, we gave Charles Huber grief. But he had something there that we couldn’t appreciate until 50 years later.”

The Huber brick ranch is a size and scale of home that lends itself to affordable rehabbing. The ranch home means no stairs, and the brick exterior is a low maintenance construction material, these are important issues for today’s home buyer. But as Hibner says, “These are not your father’s Huber Homes.” With renewed interest in Mid-Century Modern style, these classic, but affordable MCM homes fit that bill. Eco-Rehabarama is a builder’s showcase. Seven residential construction professional members of the HBA of Dayton took over the 10 homes that are on this tour. Eco-Rehabarama is a builder’s showcase. Each home was stripped to bare studs and the builders created a unique theme for each home. The focus is on energy efficient upgrades, hence Eco-Rehabarama, but floor plans have been altered, sometimes dramatically, and the upgrades are visually stunning. On this tour, Hibner says, visitors “will be able to see and touch the HGTV finishes.”

Themes for the homes run from “Breathe Easy” an “Allergy Friendly” home, to “Young. Hip. Fresh!” with a modern interior that is a little more edgy, to “Home for Life” with renovated space with an eye for ease of movement, convenient for someone in a wheelchair.

The Eco-Rehabarama Home Builders Association of Dayton, in partnership with CountyCorp’s The Housing Source is presenting Eco-Rehabarama, held in May- dates and times can be found here, and in up-coming posts, I’ll take you inside the homes, discuss what CountyCorp and The Housing Source are and what they do, and talk to the builders about what it takes to rehab a home, and how they created their unique themes.  All homes will be for sale through CountyCorp’s The Housing Source Signature Homes, for occupancy at the conclusion of the show. Meanwhile, if you are looking for inspiration and a sneak peek, take a look at the descriptions for the ten homes, here.

 

Images: CountyCorp The Housing Source.

HOLIDAY AT HOME SEEKS 2012 GRAND MARSHAL

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While the annual Kettering Holiday at Home festivities is still six months away, the committee is already seeking nominations for a south-area resident to serve as grand marshal of the annual Labor Day events. Nominees should be outstanding community citizens for the cities of Beavercreek, Bellbrook, Kettering, Miamisburg, Moraine, Oakwood, or West Carrollton, or from the townships of Beavercreek, Miami, Sugarcreek, or Washington. The ideal candidate is one having current strong community involvement as well as a history of volunteerism. Past nominees may be nominated again. Letters of nomination must provide a brief biography and include lists of accomplishments and involvement in the community. Mail nominations to Amanda Hoying, PO Box 292564, Kettering, OH 45429 or e-mail to [email protected] . Deadline is April 20th.

About Holiday at Home

The Holiday At Home celebration began on Labor Day, 1959, under the sponsorship of the Kettering YMCA. It was known then as “Kettering Day.” From this well-organized beginning, Holiday At Home was refined and enlarged to the present Labor Day weekend festival that is now enjoyed by thousands of south suburban residents and visitors.  Kettering is used in the name to indicate the location; however, the festivities are intended for all of the communities south of Dayton. All southern communities and townships are invited to share in the Holiday At Home activities and to become part of the organization. The theme for 2012 will be Holiday at Home Puts on The Glitz.

Basho Apparel Opens New Shop in the Oregon District

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Basho Apparel’s first month of business since opening their new location in the Oregon District has exceeded their wildest expectations, according to Brian Johnson, co-owner of Basho with fellow artist and New York native Paul Baker.

“Opening is always really exciting and completely terrifying at the same time,” says Johnson.  “It can be hard to gauge the reaction you’ll get from the public.  But we were selling later than the bars in the Oregon on our opening night, and since then we’ve had a steady flow of new customers from Dayton, as well as holding on to many of our regulars from Yellow Springs.”

Basho is a full-service screen printing shop located on E. Fifth Street.  The store offers clothing and accessories designed by local artists, as well as using water-based ink in their printing process that is more environmentally friendly than that used by much of the industry.

“It’s a lot of work,” Johnson says. “At Basho we do all our own tricks… any construction or painting is always kept in-house. I guess that’s one of the benefits of working with a bunch of cool designers and artists.”

The store’s local focus is also important to Johnson.

“We offer artist-designed, locally made apparel,” he says.  “Also, every First Friday we work with a local artist to release a short-run retail line. It’s a fun way to reach out to the community, not to mention help someone who may not be able to start their own line.”

Baker opened his first store in Yellow Springs in 2000, but Johnson didn’t get involved until a few years later.

“Paul and I first met when I started working for him in the summer of ’05,” Johnson says.  “He needed someone to run a cash register at his store in Yellow Springs, and it was a fun temporary job for me.”

“Fast-forward six years and I’m having a single artist showing at Fifth Third Tower in Dayton,” he continues.  “I’d invited Paul, but didn’t expect him to come – he hates leaving the house. He showed up though, and we ended up talking business. Paul had come to a point where he didn’t want to handle the administrative aspects anymore; he wanted to focus on his printing and design work.  A few months later everything started rolling, and we made the arrangement official.”

The partners opened their Dayton location earlier this year with the help of Activated Spaces, a volunteer organization seeking to boost Dayton’s economy by filling empty storefronts downtown with art installations, short-term (or “pop-up”) retail spaces, and longer-term businesses.

“Everybody I talk to seems to think that Dayton is a risky market for retail,” Johnson says. “But I live downtown, I go to shows downtown, I get coffee downtown, and I make probably 95% of my purchases downtown.  And I am, by far, not the only one.”

“There’s been a huge surge in business openings on the east side of the Oregon District within the last year,” says Johnson.  “If that’s not evidence that there is a blossoming, eclectic economy growing in Dayton, I don’t know what is.  And we want to be a part of it.”

Bridal Beauty Survival Kit

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 It’s that time of year again when all things bride enter many of our lives. There’s   nothing more exciting and stressful than planning your wedding day and how you are going to look the day of should not be one of those stresses. I have people ask me all the time why they should get their makeup done for their wedding day. There are a few answers and my number one is “dont you want to relax?” makeup and hair should be the last thing on your mind on the big day and hiring a professional team (if in your budget) is a luxury. The next response is, “my cousin Betty does great makeup and she will do it for free” Cousin Betty may be great at her own makeup and yours as well for a night on the town but when it comes to a professional photographer, bright lights, random tears and sweat cousin Betty may not have the tools to handle it. The fact is bridal makeup is not everyday makeup. You will look like yourself and natural but there are lots of tricks that we, makeup artists use to make you looko flawless all day. As trained artists we know how you are going to look in all kinds of lighting and how to make you look your best from all angles.

 

The next big question, “whats airbrush makeup and why do I need it?” Airbrush makeup is exactly what it sounds like, it is applied with an airbrush gun similar to ones you have seen for shirt making. Using trained techniques airbrushing gives you a flawless complexion in a long wearing weightless formula. Using different pressures makeup artists are able to contour and adjust certain areas of the skin to make you a beautiful even face. Most brides love it becasue you feel like there is nothing on your face. So you might now be thinking, “why can’t regular foundation do that?” Regular foundation can be just as flawless if applied correctly the biggest difference is the long wearing factor and how your skin feels. Airbrush is weightless and most traditional foundations can be felt on the skin. Another big difference is that airbrush foundation is waterproof and long wearing where as traditional foundations may not always be. If you choose traditional foundation be sure and ask your makeup artist if they are using a primer and waterproofing setting spray to make sure you dont lose that gorgeous face!

 

What if makeup is not in your budget? Dont dispair there are options. A popular service that I have provided over the years is teaching the bride to do her own makeup with her own products. Basically you have a private makeup session to learn how to make yourself flawless the day of. This is often an affordable choice for the budget friendly bride. The one thing that I must stress is beware of makeup counters! Not all but many of the girls at the counters are not trained professionals. No matter who or what you choose for you makeup be sure and do a run through so there are no surprises on the day of.

 

How do you know what to look for in a beauty team? You definitly want to see a portfolio of actual work and many brides recommend artists to one another after their weddings. Word of mouth is the best way to go. You know someone has used them and had a perfect result. The next step is making sure you are compatible with your beauty team. Remember these are the people you are going to be with at the last moments before you walk down the aisle. The last thing you need is someone who makes you nervous. You will know when you schedule your trial if it’s a good match. Look for someone who makes you comfortable and that you can laugh with. You will most likely be nervous so you need someone who can keep the mood light and easy.

 

Remember this is your big day and you want to be at your best on every level. The day of the wedding should be your day to relax and be pampered. Choosing a beauty team that fits your needs will make the day go much smoother and keep you from worrying about more than you need to. Below I have given you 6 month check list of what you need to be doing to prepare for one of best days of your life.

 

6 Months Before

 

Start a skin care regime. Schedule your first facial with an esthetician to get on a skin care plan that may include peels and/or microdermabrasion.

Now is the time to experiment with different cuts and colors. Once you find a look that you are comfortable with begin a hair care routine that includes regular deep conditioning treatments and trims every 4–6 weeks.

5 Months Before

 

If your nails are short, begin growing them out or consider nail enhancements such as acrylics. If you plan on having natural nails, begin monthly manicures and pedicures. This will ensure your nails are strong and look flawless for your wedding as well as serve as a nice break from all that wedding planning!

4 Months Before

 

Make your hair and make-up appointments for your trial and wedding day.

Make hair and make-up appointments for your bridesmaids and relatives as well.

2–3 Months Before

 

Continue skin care plan.

Research different hair and make-up styles you would like to try on your trial.

1 Month Before

Get your trial hair and make-up completed together. This allows enough time before the wedding if you want to try a new style but is close enough to keep your look fresh in your service provider’s mind.

Receive your final skin peel/microdermabrasion.                        

2 Weeks Before

Get your final hair trim and deep conditioning treatment.

Touch up your color and/or highlights.

Receive your final facial.

1 Week Before

Receive any waxing services such as brow, lip, legs, etc. Also keep in mind getting a bikini wax – especially if you’re going somewhere tropical for your honeymoon. For the best results, waxing services should be performed on 3–4 weeks of hair growth. If you do not usually get waxed, begin a few months before your wedding day to avoid an adverse reaction to the wax.

Get a relaxing massage. Chances are it will be a nice relaxing break from all that last minute wedding planning!

Get an airbrush tan it gives it time to fade if its too dark and you can bronze again two to three days before your wedding if you like the tanned look.

1–2 Days Before

 

Get a body polish to gently exfoliate your skin. It gives brides that “glowing look”.

 

If you have nail enhancements, get a fill. If you have natural nails, get a manicure.

Receive a spa pedicure. Many brides opt for French polish on their toes to finish off their overall bridal look.

Day of

 

Receive your hair and make-up services. It is recommended that these be the only services you receive on your actual wedding day.

 

If you have any questions on finding a bridal beauty team feel free to message me. There are tons of great artists in the Dayton area!!

Puttin’ on the Ritz at Opera Ball 2012

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(submitted by the Opera Guild of Dayton)

You heard about it, didn’t you? You know ─ Tom (Bankston that is) and a few hundred of his closest friends from Opera Guild of Dayton are meeting at Dayton Country Club (DCC) on Saturday, March 3, at 6:30 p.m. They’re Puttin’ on the Ritz at Opera Ball 2012. They’ve got The Tom Daugherty Orchestra coming. Do they ever play the tunes! How about the Charleston or maybe some swing? There’ll be lots more to keep your feet tappin’.

Now I hear that the food at DCC is pretty terrific. They won’t be serving bathtub gin, just the good stuff. Don your glad rags ─ that’s your black tie attire and some bling. How about a bow tie and a top hat or some long pearls? Feathers and boas? Sure.

And for the auctions, the prizes are the “bee’s knees.” How about a week at Big Sky, Montana, or Winter Park, Colorado? Also, there’s a glamorous trip to New York City to dine at the 21 Club with a hotel stay at the incomparable The Lowell on the Upper East Side. Try for the Segway tour of Woodland Cemetery or tickets to the opera. Dining certificates are available at some hotsy, totsy restaurants. Pamper yourself at a spa. And they’ve got luscious wine baskets, art glass and lots more.

Call 937/434-8236 and ask for Sam. She has all the details. She’ll make sure that your reservation is set.  That new fangled Web has information too at OperaGuildOfDayton.org. Now all this partying helps the Opera Guild support Dayton Opera productions and keeps their educational endeavors with the schools in swell shape. And those high school and college vocal competition winners need the Guild’s dough too.

Be there for a roarin’ good time Puttin’ on the Ritz!

Celebrate Spring at March First Friday

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Complementary chocolate is served to visitors during December 2011's First Friday at Peace on Fifth. The shop will offer fair trade chocolates to visitors again March 2.

Explore downtown Dayton during the next free First Friday art hop, held from 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, March 2, with activities for all to enjoy.

This month’s First Friday will feature a variety of live music, shopping opportunities and gallery openings.  As the weather warms up, many downtown shops will feature sales on winter items. Roving musicians and entertainers will perform in downtown’s public spaces for visitors to watch and enjoy, and many businesses will offer specials to First Friday visitors.

Explore your artistic side

First Friday gives downtown visitors an opportunity to explore numerous art exhibit openings. Check out the Dayton Visual Arts Center’s opening at 118 N. Jefferson St. from 5 to 8 p.m. “The Cline Show: An All-Area University Exhibit,” will feature works in all types of media and showcase art by more than 20 local students from Wright State University, the University of Dayton and Sinclair Community College. Mike Elsass will premiere new works of art at his gallery, Color of Energy, 16 Brown St., and works of art by students from St. Luke’s Elementary will be displayed at K12 Gallery for Young People, 510 E. Third St.

Making their First Friday debut, the Dayton Society of Painters and Sculptors, 48 High St., will highlight artists from the Dayton Printmakers Cooperative for the DSPS’ seventh annual Printmakers Show. Featuring printmaking demos and refreshments, the DSPS will be open from 5 to 8 p.m.

The Cannery Art and Design Center, 434 E. Third St., will show work by Springboro calligrapher Ann Bain in celebration of her 80th birthday. The exhibit, “Exuberance,” will showcase a variety of 2D and 3D pieces. Press, 257 Wayne Ave., will feature work by local artists Glen Clark, Craig Tirey, Erich Reith and Amanda Barb

osa. Stop by H. David Clay Studio, 33 S. St. Clair St., to check out functional and decorative pottery made on site. Gallery 510 Fine Art, 510 E. Fifth St., will showcase a variety of work created by local artists for sale, including jewelry, quilts, scarves and ceramics.

The Record Gallery will broadcast Rev. Cool's show, "Around the Fringe," on 91.3 WYSO-FM during this month's First Friday.

Get your groove on

First Friday offers a variety of ways to get your live music fix, whether you’re in the mood to rock out or kick back to some lighter tunes. Canal Street Tavern, 308 E. First St., will host a CD release party for local band BJSR featuring Ape the Ghost, Young Heirlooms and Lauren Eylise. The Ohio Coffee Company, 46 W. Fifth St., will feature Sara and Mic Riley playing “A Sweet Sound” beginning at 7 p.m. This event has no cover and the coffee bar and kitchen will be open. At De’Lish Café, 139 N. Main St., “Feel Good Fridays” will be in full swing from 6 to 8 p.m., with top-shelf drink specials in the De’Lish lounge, and live jazz by the Wade Baker Quartet from 9 p.m. to midnight.

If you prefer something more classical, the Dayton Philharmonic will perform “Bartók’s Musical Tapestry,” inspired by the work of Hungarian pianist and composer Béla Bartók at the Schuster Center, 1 W. Second St.

Oregon Arts District venues will a variety of musical opportunities. Blind Bob’s, 430 E. Fifth St., will have live music beginning at 9:30 p.m., featuring New Vega, Grenades!? and other artists. Puzzle of Light will play beginning at 9 p.m. at Jay’s Seafood, 225 E. Sixth St.  Omega Music, 318 E. Fifth St., will feature Moon High and M. Ross Perkins beginning at 6 p.m. At Trolley Stop, 530 E. Fifth St., Sarah Beck and Jessica Campbell will take the stage at 9:30 p.m.

Entertainment from shows to skating

Local musicians Moon High and M. Ross Perkins will take the stage at Omega Music in the Oregon Arts Distrct starting at 6 p.m. on First Friday.

If you’d like to explore downtown on your bicycle, check out Don Crawford Plaza in front of Fifth Third Field, 220 N. Patterson Blvd., where the monthly Courteous Mass Ride will meet at 5:15 p.m. for a ride through the city. For athletic enthusiasts, the climbing gym Urban Krag, 125 Clay St., will be open until 11 p.m. The RiverScape MetroParks Ice Rink, , 111 E. Monument Ave, will host a Wild West Skate from 7 to 10 p.m., featuring a DJ playing a variety of country and western music. Admission is $5, which includes skate rental.

First Friday is a way to discover some of the theater and performance options downtown. The Human Race Theatre Company presents the world premiere of “Tenderly,” a musical about the life of renowned singer and actress Rosemary Clooney, at the Victoria Theatre, 138 N. Main St. If you’re in the mood for a laugh, John Evens will perform at Wiley’s Comedy Niteclub, 101 Pine St., at 9 p.m.; tickets are $12. The Neon, 130 E. Fifth St., shows a variety of new releases and independent movies. Call 222-SHOW (7469) for films and show times.

Shop the winter sales

Getting a fashion fix is easy to do downtown. Amore!, 16 Brown St., will premiere new spring items and offer 50 percent off select winter fashions. Munch on Japanese snacks at the sushi and sake shopping party Clash Consignments, 113 E. Third St., with sushi provided by Fusian. The party will feature local DJ The Snark and a storewide sale on winter items until 10 p.m. Basho Apparel, 521 E. Fifth St., will have a featured print design on baby clothes by local artist Janell Barker of Press.

The Oregon Arts District features several stores that offer unique gifts, art and furniture. Shop for vintage and one-of-a-kind furniture, housewares, art and more at Jimmy Modern, 605 E. Fifth St. Peace on Fifth, 519 E. Fifth St., a slave-free and eco-friendly gift shop, will be serving free fair-trade chocolate. The Record Gallery, 16 Brown St., will broadcast Rev. Cool’s “Around the Fringe” show on 91.3 WYSO-FM for visitors shopping their vast record selection. ReCreate, 438 E. Fifth St., has new and used instruments, other music-related items and original artwork.

In addition, staff from the day spa Beaute Box, located at 116 W. Fifth St., will be on the go on the streets of the Oregon Arts District raffling prizes.

Work up an appetite

In addition to its art gallery space, Gallery 510 Fine Art also will showcase a collection of jewelry, scarves, ceramics and other art created by local artists for sale.

After wandering the streets of downtown, check out the dinner and drink specials offered on First Friday. Boulevard Haus, 328 E. Fifth St., features $1 off tap beer for those who mention First Friday. At Deaf Monty’s Wine, 22 Brown St., it’s only $5 for a 6-ounce glass of red or white wine. Dublin Pub, 300 Wayne Ave., has no cover and 20 percent off all food during First Friday. Lucky’s Taproom and Eatery, 520 E. Fifth St., will feature dinner specials, along with the special tapping of a firkin of New Holland Poet, an oatmeal stout. Olive, an urban dive, 416 E. Third St., will have several dinner specials until 11 p.m., in addition to broadcasting Rev. Cool’s “Around the Fringe” show on 91.3 WYSO-FM. Oregon Express, 336 E. Fifth St., has half-price pizza from 4 to 8 p.m. and live music at 9:30 p.m.

First Friday is presented by the Downtown Dayton Partnership with support from the Oregon District Business Association and WYSO-FM 91.3. The Downtown Dayton Partnership’s website has a complete list of downtown’s arts and cultural amenities, as well as a dining guide, parking map and much more.

Lash Envy? The Good the Bad and the Nail Glue?

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It has come to my attention in recent weeks that there is a growing problem with legitiment eyelash extensions. You may have read one of my earlier columns on lashes and what to look for when thinking about getting them. After talking with several girls recently and hearing numerous stories from other salon professionals I felt like this was something people needed to know about. Before I begin with the horror stories here is my number one advice to you when even thinking about getting extensions, make sure the person doing your lashes is licensed and trained in lash extensions. You not only have to be a board certified aethescian or cosmotologist but you also have to have outside training from lash line you are using.

When it comes down to it most of us would love to have eyelash extensions, however, the price is a concern for most people. Enter in the “nail spa” where things always seem to be cheaper somehow. I recently heard a story from a woman who went to a nail spa in Centerville that was supposebly doing extensions. They offered her a great and much cheaper price than leading salons in the area so she said yes. She had the extensions applied and within 24hrs she was begging to have them taken off. She quoted, “they burned and were painful” luckily the place took them off and she headed to Enhance Spa and Lash Studio. Angi Wolfe, an award winning Xtreme Lash professional was able to get some real extensions on the client but stated that lashes were definitly compromised and would need time to grow back in. This is just one of the stories that we are hearing every week . I have had model clients who have told me they went to nail spas and they attached lashes with nail glue!! This is absolutly terrifying. To put things in perspective for those readers who have not had extensions, when done correctly you do not have any pain or burning in fact you cant even feel them. These are just a couple of the stories that have been going around. I have also heard of people working out of their homes and not being certified but charging far less to attract customers. One woman who went to such a place stated “the woman worked out of her home not the flashy ad she had on the internet of a beautiful spa” she went on to say ” the woman who applied the lashes said she had just learned in the last month from a friend” The result, “the lashes were clumped together and uncomfortable. Some were even turned around a poking in my eye” Another woman who went to an uncertified technician complained that when she washed her face all the lashes fell out along with many of her own.

So what happens when you do get extensions from a real place? I can tell from my personal experience that I go every two weeks to get mine filled. The initial set took about two hours and the fills usually take 45min to an hour depending on how much I am shedding. It is a spa atmosphere, there is a comfy bed and a warm neck pillow and I lay there nearly falling asleep. I have never experienced any type of pain when getting my lashes done and I have never lost an excessive amount of my own lashes. In fact my lashes have grown in thicker from not wearing so much mascara. I constantly get compliments on my lashes and people cannot believe they are not mine. What can you expect when you get lash extensions? You will arrive and meet with your lash artist he or she will go over all the details of your lashes and find out whether or not you are a good candidate for them. They will discuss the proper way to care for them and how they are applied. Once you both have decided that they are a good match for you, you will lay down and have undereye patches placed under your eyes. This is so that the artist can see your lashes more easily. Then they will begin placing lash extensions on your own lashes with tweezers with a medical grade glue. (see why you dont want just anyone doing them?) Many lash artists will use magnifying lenses to get a closer and better view of each individual lash. All in all its relaxing and you sit up with beautiful lashes! There is no pain, no sticky glue mess and no lashes poking you in the eye. You can wash your face, go swimming, wear mascara and even cry (within reason lol and still have fabulous lashes. Now that is not to say that they wont fall out. The extensions fall out naturally with your own lashes so there are things that will make them come out faster. For example if you are an “eye rubber” an overzealous fashwasher, or excessive sweater and or cryer these are things that make your own lashes come out faster. As long as you take care to be gentle with them and brush them once or twice a day you will be good to go with fabulous lashes in tow.

What should you look for when deciding to try lash extensions? First and formost the technician must be certified, not only by the state but also by the lash company. Xtreme lashes is the most popular brand and the one I personally wear. You can go on their website and find certified technicians in your area. Be sure and ask questions and find out how long the person has been applying the lashes dont let just anyone get near your lashes! Finally dont be attracted to cheaper pricing, Xtreme lashes set a standard that salons cannot price under so if you are seeing a cheaper price they are not Xtreme lashes. You can expect to pay around 200.00 for your first set and then around 50.00 for your refills. Look around at certified spas and see what they are charging dont be fooled by false advertising. If you have any questions or concerns regarding lashes or if you think you would like to have some of your own please contact Angi Wolfe at 937-748-7294 you can also visit her site at http://www.enhancespaandlashstudio.com/