Life + Culture

Getting Empowered and Getting Outside

How Jessica Urton turned her struggles into the opportunity to help women heal together. Article by Nan Paraskevopoulos | Photography by Provided Hope Wanders helps women navigate challenging life circumstances in the heart of Dayton. Founded to foster confidence and resilience, this nonprofit organization leverages the transformative power of outdoor adventures and community bonding. Their approach is simple yet profound: immersing women in nature and providing a supportive community helps...

July 2024

Life + Culture

Celebrating Community Spirit

The Centerville Washington Township Americana Festival celebrates more than 50 years of fun and tradition. Article by Nina Weierman | Photography by Provided When heading east on Franklin Street in Uptown Centerville at the end of June, a familiar sight emerges. An array of chairs begins to line the street as people save their spots for what has become a highly anticipated event: the Centerville Washington Township Americana Festival 4th of July Parade.  What started back in 1972 as a small...

June 2024

Fitness

Pedaling into Summer Fun

Explore Centerville’s bike-friendly paths and parks for all ages. Article by Nina Weierman | Photography by Provided Nothing makes you feel like a kid again quite like getting on a bicycle and going for a ride and Centerville is a great place to do so. Riders of all ages have a wide variety of trails and paths to choose from for riding including sections of the larger Miami Valley Trail Network, the largest paved trail network in the nation.  “The Centerville Washington Park District (CWPD)...

June 2024

Life + Culture

Matching Kids for Success

Big Brothers Big Sisters Miami Valley encourages kids’ potential through mentoring programs. Article by Rod Bluhm | Photography by Provided Supporters of potential since 1958, Big Brothers Big Sisters Miami Valley (BBBSMV) serves more than 400 youths ages 5-18 and their families in a four-county region with the majority residing in Montgomery County. Their mission is to create and champion one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth.  Volunteers can mentor...

May 2024

Arts + Culture

Leading Men

Meet three men making a difference for people living, working and learning in our community. Article by Nina Weierman | Photography by Kelly Settle–Kelly Ann Photography Despite their diverse roles and fields, these three gentlemen share a common thread of dedication, leadership and community impact. Jesse Gaither, President of Heart of Centerville and Washington Twp., fosters collaboration and giving back to local businesses and the community. Dr. Michael Albert, Chief of Pediatric...

May 2024

Arts + Culture

Putting Hope on the Table

Chef Chad Conklin is teaching the next generation and making dessert more beautiful for everyone. Article by Nan Paraskevopoulos | Photography by With Love Photography Centerville resident Chef Chad Conklin, a luminary in the local culinary world, answered his calling in the kitchen of Middletown's Marshall High School. With a resume boasting Secchia Institute for Culinary Education and world-renowned Johnson & Wales University, Chef Chad could have pursued a career in any prestigious...

May 2024

Arts + Culture

All Are Welcome

The Dayton Woman’s Club opened its doors in 1916 and still invites everyone to lunch. Article by Nan Paraskevopoulos | Photography by Austin + Shilo Creative Established in 1916, the Dayton Woman's Club (DWC) has been a beacon of empowerment and community for over a century. From its humble beginnings rooted in social and literary pursuits to its present-day mission of fostering collaboration, education and inclusivity, the club's journey reflects the evolving landscape of women's roles in...

April 2024

Health + Wellness

A Healthy, Confident Smile

Dr. Heidi Sprowls realizes her dream to build her own dental practice in Centerville. Article by Nina Weierman | Photography by Christina Littleton Photography When local dentist Heidi Sprowls, Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS), moved to Ohio in 2002 she had plans to settle into a practice, work a few days a week and start a family. She and her husband, Dr. Matt Sprowls welcomed their daughter Chloe in 2004 and with the help of a good friend, she began work in Centerville at a local dental...

April 2024

Arts + Culture

Touching Lives

Four inspiring women make an impact in the Centerville community with their work and pastimes. Article by Nina Weierman | Photography by Austin + Shilo Creative We hope you’ll enjoy discovering the unique stories of four extraordinary women in Centerville. Get inspired by Kim Boehm's dynamic teaching approach and Joan Cordonnier's selfless leadership. Then find admiration for Cari Oehlenschlager's compassionate care as well as Zarana Vakil's artistic journey. Their stories illuminate a local...

April 2024

Arts + Culture

Tiny Houses, Big Dreams

Learn how the American Institute of Architects-Dayton is investing in the next generation of architects. Article by Nan Paraskevopoulos | Photography by Provided A unique design competition in Dayton is encouraging students to think creatively about addressing housing shortages. This year’s American Institute of Architects (AIA) Dayton’s student design competition is centered around Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). ADUs are permanent and nonmobile and must be able to fit within a residence’s...

March 2024