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Hope – This Exit

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Hope – This Exit

( Redemption – Next Exit )

Ted Williams - Homeless Radio Announcer in Columbus, OH

In the last 72 hours the world has witnessed the Cinderella story of Ted Williams, a homeless guy known as “Radio Man” holding the standard cardboard sign begging for help at an off ramp of I-71 in Columbus, Ohio. The scene is something we witness daily during our commutes. How many times have we all cringed and felt a bit awkward at the familiar site of our own local off-ramps? Wayne and Keowee being one. We all ask ourselves the same questions and have the same thoughts that last the duration of a red light. I won’t go into them here, but we all have the same basic thoughts and pangs of emotion. Sometimes those feelings are so strong we don’t make eye contact, let alone read the sign in hand. It was Ted Williams’ sign that took him on this journey, “I have a God given gift of voice. I’m an ex-radio announcer who has fallen on hard times.”

God granted a slow news day and the rest is history.

The story takes off when a reporter for the Columbus Dispatch took an interest and not only read the sign and gave him some change, but actually got out of his comfort zone and spoke to him. The voice that came back was shocking to say the least. The reporter returned a few days later to video tape Mr. Williams, then shelved it waiting for a slow news day. While that tape sat on the shelf Mr. Williams remained in his hovel in the brush by the interstate as winter set in.

God granted a slow news day and the rest is history. If you don’t know this story already, you are probably living in a hovel in the brush by the interstate. (or in a van down by the river.)  What took place in the few hours after that video went viral via YouTube was no less an act of God. Over 5 million views in the first 24 hours. I remember viewing it on my laptop from the comfort of my bed one very cold morning this week and was moved to tears. I can’t say what exactly resonated with me but it was instant and personal.

Obviously I was not the only one to have the “OMG” moment because by the end of the day Mr. Williams was being sought out by those who had something to offer and he literally over night was being courted by corporations and networks, flooded with job offers and even a house in one case.What he wanted most, to see his 90 year old mother. His mother. The one who prayed for his redemption and recovery from the painful pit of alcohol and drugs. She prayed for a rescue from his self imposed prison. He was the first to admit this is what took him to the street and that his voice, 2 years of sobriety, the clothes on his back and a newly developed faith in God was the only thing he owned in life. (and a pre-paid cell phone.)

Now, this story in itself is amazing and wonderful and I’m sure Will Smith has probably started voice training while his people buy the rights to the story. (If he can beat Oprah to it.) The REAL story here is the sense of community that developed during those few days. In the midst of greedy networks scratching and clawing for first dibs on this story for their ratings, a heart changing Grinch moment happened between rival network morning shows, The Early Show and The Today Show.

The usual production tricks kick off this event with Early Show delivering Mr. Williams elderly mother to LaGuardia to tape the end of their 20 year separation only for Today Show to make a power play and whisk Mr. Williams away when he landed staling the event as the jockey for position. Call it Karma or God or some kind of voice from the universe, something historic happened when the two networks brokered a deal to show the reunion between Ted Williams and his mother at the same time on Thursday morning. The prodigal son televised on a morning show. The world cheers and cries as he runs “Mommy, Mommy, Mommy….” a 53 year old man with a fresh haircut falls into his elderly mothers arms.

“What if that man was a famous painter?”

Community made this happen. This mother and child reunion resonates with us all. The redemption story resonates with us all. The realization that this could happen to any one of us as a parent or as a child should help us connect on some level. Ted Williams took his family through hell. He was far from perfect. We all want a second chance and a happy ending, if not for ourselves but for others. Imagine this being your child. Don’t think it can’t happen to you. I myself have stood in a church food pantry feeling like I’ve just had a TSA screening of my pride and dignity and asking myself  “WHY? We work hard, we have good morals, we are good people, how can this happen to US?”

On another level we all have the same desire to be heard.  “Deep down inside, many of us long to have our own inner greatness discovered by the world,” says Los Angles author and speaker BJ Gallagher. (“It’s Never Too Late to Be What You Might Have Been.”) Homelessness is not sexy and less dramatic journeys back from the edge happen every day.

Saint Patrick Parish, Lawrence, Massachusetts

I saw a mini documentary once on Independent Lens about a homeless choir at Saint Patrick Parish in Lawernce, MA, and how the chance to sing and play an instrument gave dignity back to those on Skid Row. Since seeing that film I look at homeless people differently. “What if she was opera trained in voice?” “What if he was an amazing jazz drummer?” “What if that man was a famous painter?”

We can all relate to the hell of not having food or a warm bed, or at least we can imagine it. I for one cannot imagine not having access to music. No computer or radio. No MP3 player or even a cd player. What about films? What about just basic information? What a hell that would be. Mr. Williams didn’t even see this video of himself until he was plucked off the street. He knew nothing until the celebrity tsunami hit him.

It isn’t the first time we’ve seen this kind of fame in the last few years. The film “The Soloist” about a real-life classical musician, Nathaniel Ayers, who became homeless and was re-discovered is a beautiful story.

For those of you like me who delight in the cheesier side of things, what of accidental singer Antoine Dodson whose spot on local news shot to fame after being altered by popular site Auto-Tune The News made his “Bed Intruder Song” a hit world wide. He got his family out of the projects and is now on every D-list broadcast event you can imagine. (not counting Dick Clarks Rockin’ New Years Eve, which I still don’t understand the connection, but it happened.)

The beauty of Antoine Dodsons’ story holds the same element of Mr. Williams, they are using this new lease on life to help others. Spending celebrity wisely is a rare thing these days. Dodson, a victim of childhood rape, now has a phone app to help rape victims and endangered children. Ted Williams just recorded a commercial spot yesterday for Kraft Mac & Cheese that will air on ESPN Sunday during the “Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl” game. On the theme of internet sensations,  “Double Rainbow Guy”, nothing happening on that front, which is a good thing. Maybe he can help the legalization of pot effort, but I digress.

So, what does this have to do with Dayton or you or the world? Why write about this on DaytonMostMetro.com? I found it ironic that as I was following Mr. Williams story I was busy promoting an upcoming event here in Dayton to benefit one of our own off-ramp fixtures, Mr. Rick Sowa. Mr. Sowa has been the flower vendor at the Main Street / I-75 ramp downtown for over 20 years. He was shot in the arm and robbed last October as he was selling flowers like he has done every day. He was hospitalized for his injuries and is now back out on his beat. As a community many of us rallied around him. Many of us have never bought even one flower from him, but he belongs to our community, that’s what matters most.  Local artist, musician and author “Drexel” Dave Sparks put out the call for area musicians and venue owners to help raise money for Mr. Sowa. I am one that chimed in early on and am assisting Dave in organizing the event.

So, you might ask yourself, “Why help the flower guy? Lot’s of people need help.”Well, you are right. And if you know someone who needs help, do something. Whatever you can. Or ask others to pitch in. You don’t have to feed the world, just feed one. (I wish that was MY saying but it’s a quote I heard somewhere.)

I’ve never bought a flower from Mr. Sowa. I’ve never met him and do not know him. But when I drive by I ask myself those set of questions “What’s his story?” As a contributing writer here at DaytonMostMetro.com that is my goal, to find those in the community who are invisible or don’t have a place to be heard and tell their stories. Who knows, maybe the next Ted Williams is you, or someone you recognize. Everyone deserves to be heard. Meanwhile, stop by the benefit show for Mr. Rick Sowa at Blind Bobs on January 15. Hear some great music from bands that are donating their pay for the night. Drexel – Akillis Green – Oxymoronatron – Team Void – Okay Lindon – Chuck Cleaver

Speaking of community and being good hearted for the benefit of others, BIG PROPS to the band “Human Reunion” who endured a scheduling issue with the same date / venue and graciously moved their show to Jimmy’s Cornerstone Bar, the last show of that venues location before Miami Valley Hospital tears it down. Please buy a “Human Reunion” record and support them as well. Or, if you are ambitious that night, go to both shows! You can never get too much good Dayton music!

GladGirl

YP Roundup – January 2011

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Happy New Year!

December went out with a bang with special discounts for big YP New Year’s Eve parties and a lot happening.  Not to be outdone, there are some great events coming up in January.  Also – make sure you look into the meetups that are popping up.  In additional to the Twenty-Somethings group and the Young Professionals I’ve told you about – a new group has emerged just last month, the Thirty-Somethings.  So – there are professional groups, social groups, networking groups, arts groups, recreation groups, and lots of overlap among them all.  Check out something new this month!

First up: HYPE – the YP group nestled in the Northern Miami Valley invites you to join them for an informal lunch on Wednesday, January 12 at the Tin Roof in Troy.  It’s a great chance to meet new friends, keep up with their events, and enjoy lunch together.  New members always welcome, but RSVPs are required by Noon on January 11.

Thirsty Thursday on January 13 gives you a way to wet your whistle with other YPs and meet new people without any membership requirements.  Join Generation Dayton at The Wine Loft at the Greene from 5:30 – 7:30 PM for a cash bar with special happy hour prices.

Have you been Ice Skating on RiverScape yet this season?  Now’s your chance – Saturday, January 15 from 3-5 PM.  With a tiny cost of $5 for admission and skate rental, you get plenty of fun.  Skate, enjoy some hot chocolate, and sit around the fire pits with friends from Generation Dayton.

You can count on Generation Dayton to bring you great conversation over good food with the Business and Breakfast Speaker Series. In January, hear from Andy Snow – a top regional photographer sharing his experience catching the action for the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company.  Tuesday, January 18 at the Panera on Main Street in Centerville from 7-8AM.  No cost to attend (food at your own expense), but you need to RSVP.

Third Thursday of the month brings you the Dayton Ballet Barre’s monthly Wine and Ballet at the Wine Gallery on Monument and Main in Dayton.  Get together with other arts-minded YPs for conversation, drinks, and fun.

Dayton has a major history and future of invention.  Former Governor Bob Taft has been leading discussions and actions regarding the partnership between education and innovation.  He’ll share his insights at a Generation Dayton Fourth Friday Lunch at the Stars Restaurant on top of the Crowne Plaza in downtown Dayton on January 28 at Noon.  RSVPs required.

The final Gen D event of January gets everyone together for bowling at Woodman Lanes in Kettering on Saturday, January 29 from 6-8 PM.  Only $12 includes 2 hours of bowling, shoes, and pizza.  Pay at the door and everyone will be assigned to lanes as you arrive.  Remember to RSVP!

January 29 is also your chance to “Jump into Bluegrass” with JumpstART.  It’s a great deal on a arts opportunity that may be new to you, so check it out with other YPs.  Grammy-winning bluegrass superstar Ricky Skaggs and his fire-breathing band Kentucky Thunder return to the Dayton Masonic Center stage to headline an outstanding traditional bluegrass double-header.

***New on the radar!  Did you graduation from the University of Dayton in the last 10 years (or you’re under 35)?  UD now has a special YP alumni group – Day10.  There’s a whole list of events they have coming up, so if you’re a flyer grad – check them out.

Between professional and social networking, volunteer opportunities, food, education, and arts – there’s something for everyone.  What kinds of events get you excited to try something new and meet some new people?

Help save a life during National Blood Donor Month!

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January has been designated National Blood Donor Month to raise awareness during a time of year when blood supplies often fall to their lowest levels.  Donations traditionally decline during the post-holiday season because of busy schedules and inclement weather, which can prevent people from keeping donation appointments. At the same time, the need for blood remains constant in the early months of the year.

Those who register to donate at most Community Blood Center (CBC) blood drives and all branch locations January 3 through January 29 will receive a free limited edition Honor. Duty. Donor.  Army green t-shirt!

  • It is essential that CBC has 350 donors a day
  • CBC serves 24 hospitals in 15 counties in Indiana and Ohio
  • Over 40,000 local patients benefit from blood products donated by local blood donors

Donors are required to provide a photo ID that includes their full name. Past CBC donors are also asked to bring their CBC donor ID card. Donors must be at least 17 years of age (16 years old with parental consent: form available at www.givingblood.org or at CBC branch & blood drive locations), weigh a minimum of 110 pounds, and be in good physical health.  The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) changes blood donor eligibility guidelines periodically.  Individuals with eligibility questions are invited to email [email protected] or call 1(800)388-GIVE. Make an appointment at www.DonorTime.com.

Community Blood Center/Community Tissue Servicesâ„¢, an independent, not-for-profit organization, is registered to ISO 9001:2000.  Community Blood Center provides blood products to 24 hospitals in the Miami (Ohio) and Whitewater (Indiana) Valleys.  For more information about Community Blood Center/Community Tissue Services visit www.givingblood.org.

Leaders Wanted for Dayton Neighborhoods

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Applications are now being accepted for the 29th annual Neighborhood Leadership Institute, sponsored by the City of Dayton. The Neighborhood Leadership Institute is a 12-week program designed to educate Dayton residents about local government, City resources, and community leadership.

The 2011 program is scheduled to kick-off on Tuesday, March 15, 2011. It is comprised of workshops, skill-building components, and a day-long bus tour of Dayton neighborhoods. Participants hear presentations from community, business, and government leaders on topics such as Dayton’s history, the role of City government, the criminal justice system, and cultural diversity. Class members also complete field assignments and a practicum requiring development of a grassroots project within their community.

Anyone interested in participating should submit a completed application no later than Thursday, February 10, 2011. Application forms are available at the Division of Citizen Participation (6th floor, City Hall, 101 W. Third Street), at
www.daytonohio.gov/departments/pcd, or by calling 937-333-3670.

Buy Local, Buy Art

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Real Art

(Submitted by Samantha Enslen)

Waited till the last minute to get your holiday shopping done? There’s still time to get some great gifts. Best of all, you can get one-of-a-kind items made right here in Dayton, many created by local artists and designers.

Ready to shop?

Real Art. Designers designing? Who would’ve thunk it? But these designs are different—they’re things you can pick up, put on, write in, put stuff in. All knitted, sewn, photographed, or constructed by the talented folks at Real Art, one of Dayton’s premier design studios.

A Modern Eden

A Modern Eden. Creations for kids that are adorable—without being sappy? Yes, they exist. And at A Modern Eden, they exist in the form of iPhone apps, flashcards, posters, and tote bags. Created by the designers at Forge, one of Dayton’s newest marketing firms.

Four Ambition

Four Ambition. “No art, no heart?” That’s the way we see it. Show everyone what you believe by wearing a Four Ambition t-shirt. Are you “Uncaged?” They got that. A “Gypsy?” Got that too. All designed by the three brains behind Four Ambition, a Dayton-based screen-printing shop.

Society Bodycare. Stephen Rumbaugh, a former instructor at Dayton’s School for Advertising Art, formulates and creates unique organic soaps, with packaging that could only come from a great designer. With soaps like The Art School Bar, the Yellow Springs Bar, and the Black Forest Bar, how can you go wrong?

Oregon District Galleries. Take a walk along Fifth and Brown Streets and pick up one-of-a-kind pieces

Oregon District Galleries

painted, sculpted, and crafted by local Dayton artists. The Color of Energy, Orchard View, and Gallery 510 are just a few good stops along the way.

PNC 2nd Street Market. Stop by Dayton’s best farmer’s market Thursday through Saturday and pick up gifts from local growers,

Society Bodycare

bakers, chefs, and crafters. The Market will be open a special day — Wednesday, Dec. 22 — for last-minute purchases.

Second Street Market

Go Home. Yes, it’s a home store, but this ain’t no Pottery Barn. Alongside beautiful modern furniture, you’ll find pieces by Dayton sculptors, glassworkers, and photographers like Mike Elsass, Jim DeLange, Penny Stewart, and Steven Lee Johnson. Plus, during the holiday season, Go Home carries a variety of Real Mart items.

So what are you waiting for? Start shopping … and remember … shop local, shop creatively!

Samantha Enslen runs Dragonfly Editorial and bought all her Christmas presents at Dayton and Tipp City shops. Except for the Twister game she got at Target. This article was originally published by the Dayton Creative Syndicate.

The Theater Of The Strange

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Comedian Dow Thomas Reminisces About The Dayton Comedy Scene

12/15/10

            It’s very rare for someone to be able to meet any of the people that were instrumental in warping the needle on their moral compass. For example, in the future, the odds are astronomically against my kids ever meeting up with Snooki, the creator of Grand Theft Auto or any or the Real Housewives of Poughkeepsie. I, however, was able to talk with one of the people who were instrumental in changing my vision and giving me the ability to see the world through laughing eyes: Dow Thomas. Dow is a musician, comedian and actor, who was, at one time, a script writer and musician for the notoriously wonderful local program shown on channel 22 and hosted by Dr. Creep called Shock Theater…a show that I was an avid fan of when I was a kid.

I was able to speak with Dow recently from his Floridahome. The first question I asked was whether or not Shock Theater was his introduction into the world of comedy.

“No. I was actually doing comedy in 1972, but at that time there weren’t any comedy clubs, so I was just doing comedy along with my music. I got with Dr. Creep in the late seventies when it was called Saturday Night Dead because they had him on after Saturday Night Live, so it was kind of a neat spot.” Dow reflected on the first time he was on Dr. Creep’s show, saying, “I wrote The Ballad of Dr. Creep and went on there with my girlfriend at the time, Astrid Socrates. I remember some of the early stuff. It was juvenile jokes and stuff, but that was what they (the television station) wanted because they wanted everything clean, stupid and quick.”

If there were no comedy clubs, what venues did he perform in? Dow told me that he would just play in the local bars, places like the Trolley Stop, The Bar and The Iron Boar.

“I would get hired as a musician/entertainer and just add in the comedy in between songs. I would always put on masks and stuff…I just can’t help myself from clowning around. I’d have the gig and eventually I had bands, but when I clowned around, everyone clowned around with me. What was always part of the show was me being stupid.” Dow said. “Sailcats was one of the early comedy songs I wrote which got people to throwing plates at me and that just started it all. We used to sing The Wonderful World of Toilet Paper and we used to TP all the clubs like Clancy’s and the old Wiley’s, which was The Iron Boar originally. But comedy was always a thing with me.”

Since this was predating the eighties comedy boom, I wondered how the comedy scene evolved inDayton. After talking with Dow over an hour, I got a sense of how paradoxically brutal and liberating the process was.

“I was doing The Iron Boar only on Sundays and Wiley had hired me to do it by myself and so I basically got rid of the band…but I still had jam sessions. I was primarily a single act and that’s when I went almost strictly comedy. Back then, I had to do five hours, like from nine to two in the morning, so you had to have a lot of material.” Dow added a couple of memories from the early days ofDaytoncomedy, saying, “We had a comedy night on Tuesdays…and people still bitched about the dollar door charge! It was just crazy. I remember D.L. Stewart came in and did a little bit one night and then wrote an article about the experience.”

Since he had seen the whole evolution of the comedy scene, I wondered whether he felt that it had become too rigid, too structured.

“Yeah…yeah I do. Back then I could have Emo Philips come in and do twenty minutes and then I’d get a chance to go to the bathroom. Then maybe Judy Tenuta would come in and do twenty to thirty minutes…and then I’d get a chance to go to the bathroom.” Dow related that, “For me, I thought it should go on all night because I had been out to the Comedy Store and all of these places. I mean, I had moved out toL.A.in 1983 and I spent a couple of years out there going to different clubs. Back then, nobody closed their bar after the show. A lot of times, we’d all be up doing improv.”

Dow was not a native resident of Dayton, having moved here to attend Wright State, but he quickly adopted the city as his own. He became a habitué of the Arcade, the local bars and the dinner clubs ofDayton. I asked when he had moved from Dayton to his current residence inFlorida.

“Uh…let’s see (yelling to his wife)…Kay! When did we move down here? What year was that? 1997.” Dow the related a funny anecdote. “After we moved, aDaytonnewspaper im

 

mediately voted me the funniest man inDayton…then they did it again the next year. They voted me the funniest man inDaytonfor two straight years and I wasn’t even living there!”

The paper in question used to be called The Dayton Voice…then Impact Weekly…and now it is known as the Dayton City Paper. Maybe we were just still pretending that our Uncle Dow hadn’t left our fair city.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=llpMWbmXDY0&list=PLC369CAD7BFD06170&index=1&feature=plpp_video’]

Student Filmmakers Wanted!

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Students in grades 8-12 are invited to create and submit short films to the Sundog 8 Regional Film Festival premiering Saturday, May 21 2011 at 2:00 p.m. at the Little Art Theatre.  Cash and prizes valued over $1,500 will be awarded and Sundog official mascot, Moxy, will be sharing her supply of squeaky bones with the audience. Sundog 8 will also be screened at the FilmDayton Festival on Sunday, May 22 at Neon Movies.

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES

Each entry must be on a separate DVD with a runtime of 10 minutes or less.

Categories include:

  • Experimental
  • Narrative
  • Documentary
  • Self-Portrait
  • Music Video
  • PSA (Public Service Announcement)
  • Film/Computer Animation
  • Photo Essay

This year, a special award will be given for best submission using a dog theme. Also, there is a new category for best use of technology. Winner receives a flip camera, courtesy of Digital Pickle. Films may be individually or collaboratively produced. There is an entry fee of$3.00 per entry. Limit 3 entries per student. Submissions may be mailed or delivered to:

Yellow Springs High School
420 E. Enon Rd.
Yellow Springs, OH 45387

Deadline: 5:00 p.m. Monday, April 25.

Please check entry before submitting. Submissions not playable on a standard DVD player will be disqualified. Entry forms available at www.sundogfilmfestival.org after 1/11/2011.

OPEN JUDGING – A SUNDOG EXCLUSIVE

Open adjudication will be Thursday, April 28, 2011 starting at 9:15 a.m. at Kettering Fairmont High School, 3302 Shroyer Road in the Recital Hall.

Teachers and students will receive valuable feedback from a panel of media professionals and all may attend. Refreshments and lunch will be provided by festival sponsors.  To RSVP, call 937.767.7224 or email: [email protected] and let us know how many will be in your group by April 25. Note: Attendance is not mandatory at judging or screening to win, however teachers are encouraged to arrange a field trip to attend with their students for this highly educational and fun experience.

AWARDS AND PRIZES

Winners will be announced and prizes awarded directly following the screening at the Little Art on May 21. Students whose films make Sundog will be notified shortly after judging by email/phone. Awards will be given for best submissions in various categories as deemed by the judges. All who receive cash prizes must sign a receipt to register to claim funds. Prize money will be equally divided among collaborators. No prizes will be mailed. Winners not present at the Little Art may claim prize money, in person, at Yellow Springs HS by June 10, after which date any unclaimed cash will be returned to Sundog funds. Entries will not be returned. Sundog Film Festival is an educational event organized by dedicated teachers and interested individuals. Authorization to use copyrighted materials remains the responsibility of the contest entrant. Winning entries may be shared for public viewing through various internet sites.

Emerald Ash Borer: Little Beetle, Big Problem

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I’ve learned so much about insects during my tenure here. Admittedly, I still treat six-legged home invaders to an up-close view of the bottom of my boot, but I can at least acknowledge that most creatures play an important role in nature. (For instance, mosquitoes contribute to S.C. Johnson’s bottom line via repellent; therefore, mosquitoes stimulate the economy. Right? Oh, Econ 101, why were you an 8 a.m. class?)

Adult emerald ash borers are characterized by their vibrant green color.

But there are some bugs that truly are pests, and one little green beetle is changing the North American landscape forever. Unlike another invasive Beatle invasion that resulted in mop tops and rock ‘n’ roll, the emerald ash borer, hailing from Asia, has an insatiable appetite for ash trees, consuming nearly all trees in its wake.

Researchers have traced the beetle’s likely arrival to a contaminated wooden palette shipment that landed in Detroit. From there, the beetle’s devastation has been spreading outward, and its effects are already being felt in the greater Dayton region. A visit to Carriage Hill MetroPark will attest to this. Five Rivers MetroParks is starting the process of removing potentially hazardous trees. Why?

The beetle larvae eat the tissue under the bark, creating S-shaped "galleries."

The beetle is a wood-boring insect, meaning it tunnels into trees and lays its eggs. Those eggs hatch into translucent pulp-munching machines; the larvae carve winding “galleries” into the tree’s phloem, which is like the plant’s cardiovascular system, delivering vital nutrients from the ground to the branches. Trees are quite literally “suffocated” once the borer consumes the phloem, and at this point, when the tree is already mostly dead, is when symptoms start to appear. Top branches die first, and lack of water has made them very brittle. It doesn’t take much to bring those branches down, which is why the safest option is to remove the entire tree before it becomes a danger. North American species of ash have no natural defenses against this insect like Asian species, leaving the invasive insects free to enjoy a gluttonous feast.

After a recent survey, it is estimated that ash trees comprise about 30 percent of the canopy of all 15,000 acres of MetroParks. Park services, the conservation staff and education staff have come together to create a comprehensive plan to manage our natural areas in the most effective manner. Chemical treatment options are available, and Five Rivers MetroParks has a list of about 600 trees, which will have to be inoculated every two years for the next 15-20 years. Trees were chosen based on species preservation (like the rare pumpkin ash), and location (because of other structures or surroundings, it is not feasible to remove the tree) among other considerations. Trees in or around public areas, including parking lots, picnic sites, hiking trails and other locations that are not being treated must be removed. This project is a huge undertaking that will cost millions of dollars to the agency, but one that cannot be ignored.

Sounds like a bummer, right? Well, concede that in today’s global economy, these things will happen. It’s not the first time humans’ mobility has disrupted nature (remember Dutch elm disease), and it won’t be the last. A disease affecting conifers already is on the horizon. So what’s a tree hugger to do? Why, get involved in the reforestation project, of course!

Purple traps like these are being set around infested areas so researchers can monitor the beetles' behavior.

MetroParks horticulturalists have been busy this fall collecting seeds and propagating them to grow into seedlings. I can tell you there are row and rows of flats of seedlings and two refrigerators full of nuts right now at Cox Arboretum MetroPark. The first phase of reforestation will be to grow and care for these babies, and here’s where you come in: Sign up to be a Forest Foster Family. These volunteers will “adopt” a flat of seedlings to raise in their own homes for about a year and then take them to a designated MetroPark area to plant. Don’t worry, we’ll give you detailed instruction on care of your future forests. Flats will be prepped for distribution around this coming spring, and by spring of 2012, those healthy little seedlings should be ready for their new MetroPark home. Learn more in the winter issue of ParkWays available now.

If you’re interested in signing up or learning more, contact or volunteer services coordinators Kevin Kepler or Janelle Leonard at (937) 275-PARK (7275). The bug is here, and there’s not much we can do to stop it from consuming our forests, but we can make a difference and increase biodiversity so we will be ready for whatever comes next.

Holiday Shopping in Downtown Centerville & Waynesville

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Did you know…?

….That the Dayton Daily News rated the downtown Centerville area as NUMBER 1 for the most interesting and fun place to shop?  And I am totally embarrassed to reveal that I have lived in the Centerville area for about 10 years and never even bothered to have a peek at some of those specialty and boutique stores.  Well, my research, of course, involved a day of visiting some of these stores.  Folks, I’m originally from New York, and I have to say, even I was amazed!  The experience for me was like a walk through the shopping and art districts of Paris, France, Los Angeles, and New York City all put together. I learned that some of these shops are introducing what some of the proprietors calculate as products, gifts and clothing which put Dayton one, if not two years, behind the fashion curve!!  Suddenly I felt this little proud and pouty little kid complex come out of me.   I personally was once painfully enjoying that privileged bombardment of products and artwork whose first introduction to the world came through New Yorkers “Only”.   Generally, we knew that products were first tested on New Yorkers, because, as the rule goes, if New Yorkers liked it, then your product would more than likely succeed throughout the rest of the country!  How blessed I once felt!  Well, I’ll be darned; I got over that quickly as I walked through some of these shops!

Allow me to name just a few of some really very unique shops like Joli Boutique, Circa Home Décor and Antiques, Asahel’s Emporium, Loralei’s Boutique, and Visceral Gallery, etc. I’d really love to introduce some extraordinary Christmas items you can find and purchase at these stores, ranging from the one of a kind for the “unique” you to the extremely reasonable and accessible!

For a listing of downtown Centerville shops go to www.heartofcenterville.com

Remember Asahel’s Emporium?  Didn’t that used to be mostly a museum type place?  Well, guess again, it was a mini winter wonderland of specialty gifts and crafts like greeting cards, artisan jewelry, Christmas snowmen and Santas, ornaments that can be personalized, stocking stuffers, car charms, photography, handbags, wall art, mantel signs, ceramic angels, pottery, fine art umbrellas, kitchen towels, floral nightlights, clocks made with wood that is more than 180 years old, puzzle balls, plant stakes and need I continue?  A very nice benefit to your purchase here is that all proceeds go to the historical society of Centerville-Washington Township which helps to preserve the town’s history and educational programs for children. That’s kind of awesome!

Circa Home Décor and Antiques is a feast for your creative eyes. Items like Christmas ornaments and decorations that are unusually different and with unique color tones, tons of assorted Christmas Santas, French milled soaps shaped like your pets, tea towels, table cloths, authentic shell, cast iron and beaded napkin holders, Christmas socks, festive shoes, dishware and highly unusual mantel stockings.  There is clothing and antique artwork, and more.

Joli Boutique was very original and the owner shared that her ideal in opening up such a store eightyears ago, was first and foremost the return of genuine and personal customer service, and yes, I experienced it and I observed everyone else experiencing it too! This store serves all ages, sizes and price ranges.  There are humanity bracelets whose proceeds go to school supplies for homeless children across the nation.  There’s a hat shop and they sell one of a kind gowns, vintage and modern gowns, and there is the coolest little metal black dress to die for!  There’s jewelry and clothing from artists from Los Angeles to Paris.  There are essential oils, soaps, popcorn shirts out of Rockport, Massachusetts, and really cool snake chains made of soft pliable metal that can be molded into whatever your little artistic fingers can design (I’m getting one of those ASAP!), dickies, leg warmers, leggings, etc. etc.  All I can say about this place is for you to dare to “step outside the box”!   La Shoe Boutique (same location, upstairs) carries shoes, boots, clothing, accessories; local artist boot jewelry, earrings, hats and the owners of both stores are sweet people and welcoming.

Quick synopsis of the others…

Loralei’s Boutique – Finer and designer consignment, and gently used merchandise. Some is also new, scarves, hats, authentic Gucci, Coach, Brahmin, Dooney, and Burke.  Juicy bags, Ferragamo shoes, St. John knit suits, crystal chandeliers, and high end boutique items.  The place is beautifully decorated.  The owner is offering gift certificates of $50 for $35 and other amounts are also available.

Unique Celebrations sells things like Santa wine stoppers, unique gifts, a very special potpourri, Christmas teas, personalized hand painted ornaments and glassware, wine glasses and plates, with special messages, and you can even book parties in her sister shop called The Tea Room.  Gifts are creatively wrapped at no extra charge!

Visceral Gallery – This owner was kind of special.  She has been in her shop for two years, is an artist herself, andtaught art at three different levels in the Centerville schools.  She specializes in elements for interiors and corporate design, fine art and unique jewelry, local and national artists (over 50 artists in-house who represent local, regional and national environments.  There is silver jewelry, body adornments, silk scarves, dyed shirts, mobiles, glasswork, sculptures, framed items, Japanese clay jewelry, and even some of Bing Davis’ pottery ceramics!  Bing Davis’s work was part of the show held at the Dayton Art Institute.  He is an educator and artist from the area.  There are even origami cards! And this doesn’t cover it all.  Exhibits change monthly, and you can rent Visceral for your next event.  It’s a very contemporary and classy locale.  For more information, visit www.francineriley.com/visceral.html

Now let’s take a ride down the road over to Waynesville, Ohio to…

THE WAYNESVILLE SHOPS: The Antiques Capital of the Midwest!


If you don’t have a lot of time to shop and would like to have access to a slew of congregated Christmas and holiday craft and antique stores, all on one convenient street, Waynesville is apparently “the” place for you.  It’s not just easy; it’s a really quaint and enchanting experience!  Many of the stores appear to be inside beautifully refurbished Victorian, Queen Anne and Eduardian style homes or are surrounded by them.  They are even open until 8pm on Thursday nights, and here is the link to all the shops you can shop til you drop!  http://waynesvilleshops.com

Want to combine it into a walking history day?  Go here: http://www.waynesvilleohio.com/Walking%20Tour.pdf

These shops are all mostly located on South Main Street in Waynesville.  You can also get a free “Passport” from any of the stores, which you can use to win a $500 shopping spree supporting all the downtown Waynesville shops as well as a Waynesville, Ohio Getaway!

  • December 10-12th weekend is being advertised as “Girlfriend’s Weekend” where you can shop, dine, have coffee, or lunch in Waynesville and then enjoy each of the shop’s individual promotionals!
  • December 26 through January 3rd is Waynesville’s “Ring in the New Year” sidewalk sale.

When you’re finished with your Christmas and holiday shopping, hand in your free passport either to a store proprietor or to the Chamber of Commerce at 10B North Main Street in Waynesville, to be considered in the drawing for the above-mentioned $500 Shopping Spree and Getaway Weekend!  The Passport period ends January 3rd so be sure to submit your passport by that day.  For information, directions and a listing of shops go to www.waynesvilleohio.com

As you get ready to explore the Centerville and Waynesville area’s vast array of specialty stores, please note every one of these shops are definitely visit-worthy.  They are retail shops, yes, but they are also fascinating fashion and historical experiences!  Open yourself up to them and it will be a day to remember!

Happy Holidays and Happy Shopping!

Christmas Cookies – The Truly Secret Ingredient

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In our family, there is really only one kind of cookie, and their appreciation is not relegated to only Christmas.  However, no Christmas would be complete without Mom’s sugar cookies – green frosted trees with m&m ornaments, yellow stars, bells and snowmen dressed with hats and buttons, that just beg for you to bite their head off.

Cookie baking is a tradition and traditions are most fun when they are being passed on to younger generations.  Cookie baking and little girls “licking the spoon” go hand in hand.  My first memories are of baking cookies with my mom, and my niece has been baking those same cookies every time she goes to Grandma’s house.   I always invite the youngest over during the big Christmas cookie baking extravaganza.  But the most special of cookies take years of tutelage before any female in our family is allowed to even consider trying to bake them herself.

The secret recipe is just as much a measure of patience and knowledge as it is ingredients.   Knowing just when to take the cookies out of the oven, lest they become crunchy.  Ensuring that the butter is soft but not so soft as to require the addition of more flour…. the proper thickness to roll the dough… how to keep them from getting too fluffy… how to store them when traveling, etc.  The lessons are many but the results are truly amazing.

Throughout my childhood these cookies moved mountains.  My brother used to sell or barter them at school.  I am certain that they were the reason I was invited to go to the “popular” girl’s birthday party in seventh grade.  They may have even played a role in me getting a date to the dance (I can see it now… my brother probably said…. No, you can’t have any of these cookies, but I will let you take my little sister to the prom.)    My Mom… once lovingly referred to as “The Dragon Lady” at work is revered as “The Cookie Fairy” when she brings them to the office.  To this day, even my Dad will momentarily forget “The War” that was waged (aka the divorce) and smile when we get him one of mom’s cookies.  It takes us all back to happy moments.

When my parents were married, homemade baked goods were our family’s gift to extended family, neighbors and friends.  Everyone knew that mom had adapted the cookie recipe in a way that had far surpassed the basic ingredients of its origins.  Accompanied by a variety of goodies, the sugar cookies were always the crowning jewel of the gift.  For many years, I have continued the Christmas cookie tradition.

I have learned to identify the exact moment to take the cookies from the oven… but am blessed with a great oven that has extremely even and consistent heat.  So I set the timer.  I have been baking these cookies for 20+ years with my mom and could likely make her very proud.  They are consistently the right thickness, hardly ever too dry from flour, and usually travel well even with all of the frosting.

But something stops me… I make the cookies but skip the special ingredient.  I only make them occasionally.  While I am thrilled to have the knowledge, I am waiting my turn, patiently.  Mom is teaching the grandkids how to make the cookies.  My niece made her first attempt at home a few weeks ago, and while the flavor was great… she still has a few more years of learning left before they are perfected.  Mom has many years and lots of lessons to teach my daughter.   Sugar cookies are a rite of passage, but not one that should be a competition.  So I use my mom’s recipe – sans one ingredient change – and leverage all the tips and knowledge to make one heck of a sugar cookie.  I am content to know that nobody can really do it better than mom.  And because I am smart enough to acknowledge that, I am usually rewarded with a dozen cookies saved just for me.  YUM.

Oregon District holds its 2010 Candlelight Holiday Home Tour

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Dayton Ohio’s Oregon District is arguably the most well-known historic district in the area. The combination of vibrant entertainment and restored historic homes gives many Dayton visitors a reason to be at least somewhat familiar with the area. If you’ve never had the opportunity to look inside one of these gorgeous homes, the Oregon District’s Holiday Candlelight Tour is your chance!

Each of Dayton’s historic districts has a unique flavor, and the Holiday Home Tours are no different. The Oregon District Holiday Tour, held on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 7, 8 combines a home tour and a dinner at one of the Oregon Districts wonderful restaurants. *Please note, as of this writing, the dinner tours are full! But you can still participate in the home tours. Tour participants will gather at “The Meeting House” which is 23 Van Buren Street, and end with a dessert at one of the hosting homes. Tickets for the home tour only are $25.00, payable at the door. The tours will begin at 6:30 pm, 7:00 pm, 7:30 pm and 8:00 pm each evening. Call Eileen at 937-223-5607 for details and reservations.

Each home on the tour promises to give participants a unique glimpse of modern living in an historic setting at its finest. You visit the OD for fun and entertainment, now visit for the quieter side of life in Dayton’s oldest neighborhood, and first designated historic district.

Painting of Griswold Home by Loretta Puncer, used by permission of owner.

DATV Program: All Things Marketing

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Monica McGee, creator and show host for DATV's All Things Marketing program.

Years ago, I worked for a general contractor and my job was to supervise the work being done at one of his job sites while he was away.  I remember being fascinated by the carpenters whom – with extreme focus and spot-on precision with the hammer and nail – meticulously labored on the task before them, erecting the sturdy frame necessary for a strong structure.

Freelance marketing consultant Monica McGee operates in similar fashion.  She focuses on a goal, knocks it squarely on its head, then – like a certain Brooklyn-born hip-hop artist – moves on to the next one.

I could say that McGee’s an up-and-coming professional, but the truth is…she’s already here.

Her show, All Things Marketing, airing on DATV, is an expertly-produced examination of the importance of the often-overlooked process of marketing within everyday business, political and personal activities.  “My vision for the program is to show marketing from different viewpoints,” says McGee.  “I interview business professionals, marketing experts and individuals who understand marketing and how it relates to business, sales, image, and brand equity of a company or individual”  McGee believes showing marketing from various vantage points keeps the show interesting.

“Even if you’re not into marketing, you can relate,” she adds.  “Whether it’s a company, a job, a place or a product…everything in one way or another is marketing.”

Another interesting twist to the All Things Marketing format is that each episode focuses on a specific theme.   The first episode (“All Things Politics”) centered around the effects of marketing on the political process.  McGee’s guests – OH Representative Clayton Luckie (D), Logan Martinez (Green Party), David Landon (R),  Robert Scott (Tea Party), Fred Strahorn(D),  County Commission Candidate Jan Kelly (R),  and Dayton Mayor Gary Leitzell (Independent) – represented a wide spectrum of  viewpoints within the political spectrum.

“The conversation was lively,” recalls McGee, with guests voicing their opinions on topics ranging from budgetary spending and the effectiveness of political ads in swaying public opinion.

L to R: Shondale Atkinson, Shana Douglas, Carla Weis Hale, show host Monica mcGee, Sharon Davis Howard, Kesha Brooks and Vicki Giambrone. (Photo by F. Coleman)

For her second show (“All Things Non-Profit: Making Your Marketing Monies Stretch”), McGee tapped Sharon Davis Howard and Vicki Giambrone of the Crown Jewels™ of Dayton, Shana Douglas and Carla Weis Hale of CultureMash, and Shondale Atkinson and Kesha Brooks of The Mustard Seed Foundation to discuss the challenges of marketing within the not-for-profit sector.  If you missed the November 30th airing of this fantastic episode, DATV will re-air it on Dec. 5th at 5 p.m. and Dec. 10th at 2 p.m.

“Monica’s amazing,” says Larry Haney, technical director for All Things Marketing.  “She and I talked for a long time about the direction of the show.  She’s done a wonderful job right from the beginning and she really cares about the quality of the content in the show.  Also, I like the fact that she chose to highlight some of the non-profits here in Dayton who are doing some important work.”  Show assistant and close friend  Geborah Stephen says, “She keeps things very professional.  It’s  important to her that the show be successful.”

While McGee certainly has a grand vision for All Things Marketing (“I want to have more regional guests.”), for now her focus is on Dayton and its surrounding communities.  She’s presently lining up guests for the next taping (“All Things Women: Marketing Yourself For Success In A Male-dominated Workforce”) and – like those carpenters I observed years ago – I’m marveling at the efficiency by which she’s laying  strong foundation to build upon.

Visit All Things Marketing on Facebook

and on Twitter

or by phone at (937) 540-0182.

December YP Roundup

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December brings holiday parties galore for people already involved in various YP organizations, and plenty of opportunities for the casual observer to network, get involved, and explore some of the many YP groups in the region.

Kicking off December’s activities, you can join Generation Dayton at their holiday wine/chocolate tasting at Winans Coffee and Chocolates at the Dayton Mall; for $20, you can try 5 wines and 5 chocolates. YUM! Another option to kick-start your December is Karaoke night at Blind Bob’s with the 20-somethings of Dayton. This meetup utilizes events of interest that are already happening around town and gets a group together to make it a party. Then Thursday brings the Young AFCEAns Holiday Party at the Pub (at the Greene). From 5-7 PM, they provide the food, soda, and beer – you come ready to network with other local defence contractors. Don’t know if this group is for you? Contact cweinstein@rhinocorps.com for more info. And the launch of the new group Culture Mash is also on December 2 at Wright State – this is a new organization dedicated to bringing together young leaders to give back to the community.

First Firday conveniently fits in right here – although not an official YP event, local arts group JumpstART has been highlighting a lot of great places to buy local art to finish up your holiday shopping – hit downtown and explore the galleries for some unique shopping. Continue your weekend with the Generation Dayton Annual Holiday Party on Saturday, December 4. At the Old Courthouse, this semi-formal event is a great time to reflect back on the accomplishments of GenD members, announce the winners of the election, and generally have a lot of fun. Free for members and $25 for nonmembers (RSVP required). If you’re up north of town this Saturday, you’ll want to party it up with HYPE as they try out Cosmic Bowling from 9PM – Midnight; cost is only $13 for shoe rental and all you can bowl.

Second week of December starts slow but then ends with a lot of great activities. Midweek HYPE gets things started with a Wednesday lunch to catch up with your fellow Northern Miami Valley YPs – free to attend, but lunch is at your cost.  Also on December 8, you can learn more about the Dayton Ballet at their monthly meeting at the Dayton Racquet Club. Starting with a happy hour, they discuss business, break into committees, and talk about how to better connect YPs with the ballet scene.  Then, join your friends from Generation Dayton for their Thirsty Thursday starting at 5:30 PM at the Dayton Racquet Club (Kettering Tower) – open to all YPs in the region. Also on December 9, the Dayton Creative Syndicate joins up with the Greater Dayton Ad Association for their Holiday Party and Auction. Learn more about this young professional creative group online and see if this might be the party for you.

Friday kicks off your weekend with the fun brought to you by YP @ Play – The Dayton Urban League Young Professionals provide a creative alternative to the typical club scene! It’s a supercharged ‘play date’ for adults; a nostalgic night of fun including familiar games such as Twister, Uno, Spades, Dominos, Monopoly, along with today’s flyest games such as Wii, XBOX…all with an adult twist! On Saturday, a great collaboration between the Dayton Ballet Barre, JumpstART, and the Young Lawyers Division provides all YPs – regardless of membership affiliation – with a fantastic deal to enjoy a holiday classic. Jump into Ballet with A Night with the Nutcracker. Get 1/2 price tickets (that’s only $30) to this popular holiday show and enjoy an afterparty at the Wine Gallery. (NOTE: Tickets must be purchased in advance by calling Kathy at 937-449-5060 for this deal.)

The third week of this month is packed with events as your local YP groups make holiday adjustments. The 20-something meetup has a handful of great events on their calendar – like shopping, shooting, eating and drinking – that you can check-out. Then join HYPE for their regularly scheduled monthly happy hour on the Third Thursday of the month at The Caroline in Troy. Also on the third Thursday, the Dayton Ballet Barre meets for a happy hour with Wine and Ballet at the Wine Gallery at Main and Monument starting at 5:30 PM. Generation Dayton makes a slight adjustment as they move their Fourth Friday lunch to December 17. Don’t miss out on this great opportunity to catch up with some friends, pass around a business card or two, and enjoy some seriously delicious food from Rue Dumaine.

Rounding out the list of YP events for December is Generation Dayton’s Business and Breakfast on Tuesday, December 21 at the Brunch Club from 7-8 AM.

Hope you have a great December and get a chance to get out there and explore some of the great groups providing fun events for YPs to mix and mingle.   Don’t forget to add any events I may have missed in the comments section and to the DMM Event Calendar.  Finally, happy holidays whenever and whatever you may be celebrating this month!

Dayton Holiday Home Tours 2010: Grafton Hill

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We continue our look at 2010 Holiday Home Tours of Dayton neighborhoods with Grafton Hill. Dayton’s best kept secret is going to open its doors to the public on Dec. 4 & 5, 2010. What’s on this tour? Seven architecturally significant historic homes including Queen Anne, Craftsman, and American Four-Square styles, in a variety of construction materials and stages of restoration. Expect this guided tour to take two to three hours, including a stop for assorted holiday food and beverages. Tours start at 5pm and 6pm Saturday, 2pm and 3pm Sunday.

From the Grafton Hill Association:

Tickets are $25 and may be purchased online by sending an email to [email protected], and following the PayPal links in the reply message. You can also pay by phone with a credit card by calling Saundra Altman at Past Patterns, 937-223-3722. Get your tickets now — they make a great early Christmas present for friends and family, too!

… Additionally, at least two Open Houses will be available just before or after the tour, at nearby homes for sale. More specific information on Open Houses and other homes for sale will be sent to ticket holders, and available in printed form during the tour.

All the homes are within a short distance of each other, so don’t worry, we won’t have you walking great distances. But with all the beautiful homes in our neighborhood decorated for the holidays, you might want to! If you do, you’ll find our map showing all the tour homes plus all those for sale to come in very handy.

…Grafton Hill was designated an historic district by the city of Dayton in 1988 and is on the National Register of Historic Places.

You can friend Grafton Hill Historic District on Facebook!

As a disclosure, I’ll be hosting one of the Open Houses at a listing -please stop by to say Hello!  My personal experience with this district is that meeting the neighbors in the Grafton Hill community has been nothing but positive, and the Holiday Tour should provide a spectacular opportunity for a HouseNerd to enjoy the interiors of these remarkable homes.

Make A Wish Come True

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All around the Miami Valley, it is truly beginning to look a lot like Christmas. Pine cones wreaths and white lights line the streets of many neighborhoods. Restaurants, retailers and gathering places are bustling with activity in preparation of the crowds that will come for the holiday parties and the early bird promotions.

For the next few weeks fun, laughter, shopping, lots of eating and spending time with loved ones will be the order of the day for most families. It is the joy and happiness that fills the air that truly makes it the most wonderful time of the year.

It is also a time when people, sometimes even a Scrooge or two, believe that wishes can and do come true. This year, you can make a wish come true for a family affected by domestic violence by supporting the YWCA Dayton’s Holiday Wish List.

Every year the YWCA serves as a safe haven for children and their mothers as they struggle to rebuild their lives after enduring months even years of abuse. Unfortunately many leave home with little more than the clothes on their backs.

As more than 100 children are expected to be housed at the shelter during the holidays this year, the YWCA is counting on the generosity of people in the community to make the wishes of these families come true, even during a time in their life when there is little to believe in.

Fulfill a wish today! Click here to view the wish list and others details on how you can make a child’s Christmas bright. For more ways to support the YWCA go to www.ywcadayton.org.

National Day of Listening Encourages Conversation Instead of Shopping on November 26th

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In 2008, oral history project, StoryCorps had an idea to encourage people across the country to use the day after Thanksgiving not for shopping but for conversation.  That idea became the first National Day of Listening.  The tradition has continued and public radio stations around the country, many of whom air StoryCorps during Morning Edition, are getting on board. Here in the Miami Valley, WYSO has set up its own page explaining how you can participate.

It’s pretty simple: sit down with someone you care about: a parent, grandparent, relative or friend and invite them to share their story.  You can record the story on a laptop, iPhone, tape recorder or even with a paper and pen, but just the simple act of listening can be enough.

There are tips on how to get started including a video from StoryCorps on WYSO’s website.  You can also hear some interview between local residents from when the StoryCorps mobile booth was in Dayton this spring.  The national version of StoryCorps airs on WYSO 91.3FM every Friday morning during Morning Edition (5-8am), and Miami Valley StoryCorps (comprised entirely of local interviews) airs Wednesday mornings during Morning Edition.