Centerville, OH July 2025

Great Smiles

S TA R T WITH U S

$75 EX AM AND X-R AYS

(ADA code D0150, D0210) $244 Value New patients only. Not valid with any of fers or prior services. Does not include cleaning. Must present of fer for redemption.

We are offering $500 off all-inclusive Invisalign for new patients. Our full price is $4799. With this of fer you will get the lowest price of $4299. Most insurances accepted. Payment plans available. Cannot be combined with any other of fer or discount. This of fer is good for 2 weeks from the date of your original consultation.

We are pleased to announce that we are in network with Delta Premier and Superior Dental. Call 937 434 -1151 to schedule!

Dr. Heidi Sprowls has been practicing dentistry in the Dayton area for over 20 years. She attended Indiana University School of Dentistry and completed a General Practice Residency at Indiana University School of Medicine. Dr. Sprowls has an amazing team working with her to provide gentle comprehensive care.

Summer of Discovery

There’s something about summertime that nudges us out the door—to wander a little farther, try something new or see the familiar with fresh eyes. This month we’re celebrating that spirit of discovery and the many ways it shows up across our region.

For Susan Hickey, a local mom turned ultrarunner, that journey began with a simple goal and led to a deeper connection with nature, wellness and community. Through her miles on the trails and involvement in local park challenges, she reminds us that exploration doesn’t always mean travel—it can be as close as your neighborhood green space.

That spirit of exploration also extends to the way Centerville embraces innovation. Through partnerships with Dayton Regional Green, local businesses and city departments are implementing sustainable practices—creating a greener future for all of us, one smart step at a time.

When it’s time to beat the heat, Southwest Ohio’s museums offer the perfect indoor escape. Whether you’re drawn to bold neon signs, timeless paintings or industrial ingenuity, these cultural gems provide something for every age and interest.

And if you’re curious about your own history, Washington-Centerville Public Library provides expert guidance, resources and workshops to help you explore your family tree. With the help of local librarian Anne Wachs, genealogy becomes not only accessible but truly meaningful.

No matter how you choose to explore this summer—on foot, through history or with a fresh perspective—we hope this issue offers a spark of curiosity for your next adventure. After all, there’s always more to discover, even close to home.

MARK ANDREA, PUBLISHER @CENTERVILLELIFESTYLE

July 2025

PUBLISHER

Mark Andrea | mark.andrea@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Amanda Stout | amanda.stout@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Nina Weierman | nina.weierman@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Karen Andrea

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Nina Weierman, Nan Paraskevopoulos, Amanda Stout

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Christina Littleton Photography

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders

AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

meet your Centerville neighbor

Amy Schopperth, trauma program manager brought to you by Dayton Children’s Hospital

When a child is hurt, every second counts. My goal is to make sure we’re ready—not just at the hospital, but as a whole community—to protect kids and give them the best chance at recovery.

Learn more about our community injury prevention programs.

About Amy

Amy Schopperth, a Centerville resident and trauma-certified registered nurse, oversees the trauma program at Dayton Children’s Hospital — home to the only Level 1 pediatric trauma center in the region. She leads a skilled team that delivers round-the-clock care with experts in surgery, neurosurgery, orthopedics, emergency medicine, and critical care.

Amy’s husband is also a Dayton Children’s employee and their daughters have been involved in different aspects of Dayton Children’s, including at The Center for the Female Athlete.

With years of experience in pediatric trauma, Amy is a recognized leader in injury prevention and emergency response. She specializes in addressing a wide range of serious childhood injuries and is driven by a deep commitment to child safety. Amy works to ensure families and communities are prepared to prevent injuries and respond effectively when emergencies happen.

inside the issue

Sustainability is Good Business

Montgomery County regional sustainability initiative gives

Ready for the Trail Ahead

Local mom finds connection and purpose exploring trails and the running world.

Curtis Barnes Sr., (American, 1935–2019), Masks (detail), 1993, oil on canvas, 48 x 52 in., private collection. On view at Dayton Art Institute, July 12–September 14, as part of the Curtis Barnes Sr., Dayton Icon exhibit.

Local genealogy expert provides research support at WashingtonCenterville Public Library.

As one of the nation’s leading mental health centers, we understand each person’s journey is deeply personal. Bringing together unparalleled expertise, profound insights, and a people-first approach, we provide life-changing care and support, infusing every interaction with the underlying belief that lasting well-being is possible. We see beyond diagnoses — we see you.

Children • Adolescents

JULY 2025

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Kids made heartfelt bouquets and gifts during the Centerville-Washington Park District Celebrating All Mothers event. 2: Attendees enjoyed crafts, flowers and music on Mother’s Day. 3: Music for the event was provided by pianist Jim Douglass and Travelin’ Tom provided refreshments.

4: Centerville honored its fallen heroes with a moving Memorial Day ceremony at Stubbs Park. 5: The new U.S. Space Force monument was unveiled completing the Veterans Memorial Plaza. 6: Col. Marcus Starks delivered a heartfelt keynote honoring the sacrifices of military service members. 7: Community members gathered to lay wreaths and share moments of remembrance and gratitude.

8: The Heart of Centerville & Washington Township Merchant Market welcomed 11,000 guests. 9: Raffle tickets, kids’ activities, food trucks and artisan booths made for a fun, family-friendly afternoon. 10: The community gathered to shop 100 booths, hear live music and support local small businesses. 11: The Pet Gala raised money for SICSA Pet Adoption and Wellness Center and participating partners. 12: Partner organizations like Artemis Center and The Therapeutic Riding Institute engaged guests with interactive exhibits. 13: Attendees at the gala enjoyed refreshments provided by Salt Block Biscuit Company. 14: Guests posed with pets and snapped photos with the digital mural at The Pet Gala.

15: The Curated Nest celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon cutting, unveiling home décor and unique finds. 16: The boutique offers furniture, artwork, vintage fine jewelry, gifts and reclaimed wood and metal pieces. 17: To celebrate, the store donated 5% of all sales made from May 15-24 to local charities. 18: Dayton Humane & Co. also officially opened in Centerville with a ribbon cutting and community celebration. 19: Every purchase at the resale boutique helps fund animal rescues, spay/neuter efforts and adoptions at the Humane Society of Greater Dayton. 20: Humane Society staff, volunteers and shoppers came together to support shopping with a compassionate mission. 21: Donations are accepted at the dock behind their store located in Cross Pointe Center.

Want to be seen in the magazine?

Life, Love, & Purpose At Bethany Village

Vic and Kathy have spent a lifetime side by side, raising a family, serving others, and collecting stories from Alaska to Ohio. Now six years into life at Bethany Village, they’ve found a place where they can keep growing. From yoga and happy hours to volunteering, they continue to live with purpose and joy in a community that’s more than home.

Scan the QR code to see how Vic and Kathy live with purpose at Bethany Village, or call us to schedule a personal consultation with Amy today. (937) 888-3372

business monthly

Educators, School Supporters Honored by Centerville Education Foundation

The Centerville Education Foundation (CEF) recently celebrated exceptional individuals for their dedication to Centerville City Schools, the community and the advancement of education during their annual Hall of Fame banquet. Nineteen educators, students and alumni were recognized. Among those honored were: Outstanding Educator, Amy Mount, a preschool teacher at Primary Village North; and Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, Mindy Cline, principal at Primary Village North and a graduate of the Centerville High School Class of 1986. CentervilleEducation.org | Centerville.k12.oh.us

Dayton Children’s Hospital Opens New Outpatient Center in Centerville

Dayton Children’s Hospital opened a brand-new outpatient care center in the Centerville and Washington Township area, bringing expert pediatric care closer to home. Located at 5501 Far Hills Avenue, the center offers lab, imaging and weekly rehab services including physical, occupational and speech therapy—all in a kid-friendly space. It replaces the Kettering testing site, making care more convenient for local families. Walk-ins are welcome for lab and imaging with a referral. Learn more at ChildrensDayton.org

Humane Society of Greater Dayton Opens Centerville Resale Boutique

The Humane Society of Greater Dayton recently held a grand opening in Cross Pointe Center for Dayton Humane & Co., an upscale resale boutique with a mission. “Dayton Humane & Co. isn’t just a store—it’s a movement to shop with purpose,” says Brian Weltge, president and CEO of the Humane Society of Greater Dayton. The boutique offers a curated selection of designer fashion, quality furniture, elegant home décor and unique treasures—all donated by the community. HSDayton.org/DaytonHumaneAndCo

Grown

Your Library has

Do you use a rotary phone? No? Neither do we.

The Washington-Centerville Public Library has rolled out innovative services that will blow your mind.

With just your library card*, you can unlock a world of possibilities:

• Craft custom etched glassware

• Binge the latest shows

• Entertain and educate your kids with preloaded tablets

• Emblazon t-shirts and other gear with your artwork

• Get creative with jewelry-making kits

• Wield a laser cutter for precision projects

Whether you’re a techie, artist, or lifelong learner, come explore, create, and experience things you never thought possible at a library.

Level up your library experience today at the Washington-Centerville Public Library.

*Creativity Commons only charges for materials used.

ARTICLE BY NAN PARASKEVOPOULOS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Sustainability is Good Business

Montgomery County regional sustainability initiative gives back through local businesses.

In a time when environmental concerns are at the forefront of global conversations, Montgomery County’s Dayton Regional Green (DRG) initiative stands out as a practical way to get involved in Southwest Ohio. At the heart of this movement is the organization’s Green Business Certification program, an initiative that connects businesses with sustainable practices, promotes environmental stewardship and cultivates partnerships that ripple out across communities, including Centerville.

In 2007, Montgomery County Commissioners held a public meeting to gauge the region's interest in sustainability. To their delight about 200 people attended, a good portion of the attendees representing local business interests.

According to Director Lamees Mubaslat, “When I was assigned by the county to launch and manage DRG, there was a task force that was in charge of the initiative. Most of the stakeholders were from the business community, and they had decided that this initiative needs to be regional to serve all businesses, governments and individuals in our region.”

The task force collaborated with organizations on the West Coast to replicate proven models and developed the Green Business Certification program. The priority became demonstrating the value to businesses who considered getting involved, allowing expansion and easy maintenance. They had 14 organizations engage in the first year. In 2012, AES partnered with DRG agreeing to provide free energy audits and increased their energy efficiency rebates by 50% for Green Certified Businesses.

The DRG Green Business Certification program was reimagined in 2015 as the Bring Your Green Challenge. This online platform is open to all (not

limited to Montgomery County) and allows participation for organizations and individuals.

Now there are more than 1,000 buildings in the program that are certified.

DRG also works with local government agencies to help them reach their environmental goals and add value. Centerville has embraced DRG’s mission with open arms. Local businesses and organizations have taken the initiative to become certified, demonstrating that environmental responsibility can align with operational success.

“Since adopting a resolution in support of DRG’s mission in 2013, the city has made meaningful progress, including installing public EV charging stations and achieving DRG certification for public facilities. These steps reflect Centerville’s commitment to environmental stewardship and regional collaboration," shares Centerville Communications Director Kate Bostdorff.

Dayton Regional Green doesn’t stop at certification. The organization offers a host of educational workshops and networking events to support ongoing learning and innovation. Topics range from sustainable landscaping to renewable energy and waste diversion strategies. These sessions are open to all, from business leaders to curious residents looking to reduce their ecological footprint.

CONTINUED >

Community members have multiple avenues to support Dayton Regional Green’s mission and make an impact:

• Patronize Certified Businesses: Look for the green leaf logo or check the DRG website to find certified businesses. Supporting these companies reinforces the value of sustainability.

• Adopt Green Habits at Home: Try the Bring Your GreenGreener Lifestyle Challenges and learn how small changes like composting and switching to LED bulbs can have a collective impact.

• Attend DRG Events: Workshops, quarterly sustainability luncheons and community events offer hands-on ways to learn and contribute.

• Spread the Word: Encourage local organizations to pursue DRG certification or explore eco-friendly upgrades. According to the Centerville-Washington Park District Environmental Education Supervisor, Katy Lucas, "The Centerville-Washington Park District received the Green Business Certification from Montgomery County's Dayton Regional Green Initiative several years ago. It was an extremely helpful process to raise staff awareness about ways to reduce our carbon footprint. It is easier than you might think to make a big impact here at home!"

Centerville’s connection to Dayton Regional Green helps build a future where economic development and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand. For more information, visit BringYourGreen.com

Spark Eco-Innovation in Classrooms

Teachers who are looking for a fun and impactful way to get their students excited about sustainability can create a team and dive into Bring Your Green Design Projects. These projects are designed to be super engaging and, best of all, they're all linked to standard alignments, making them easy to incorporate into class curriculum. BringYourGreen.com/ Challenge/Go_Greener_Projects.cfm

Ready for the Trail Ahead

LOCAL MOM FINDS CONNECTION AND PURPOSE EXPLORING TRAILS AND THE RUNNING WORLD.

In 2015, with three children under six, Susan Hickey was seeking a way to reconnect with her identity outside of her role as a mom. A friend training for a marathon inspired her to set a goal: run her first 5K all the way through without walking before turning 40. Susan had no idea that one 5K would lead to thousands of miles through trails, across borders and up countless hills. She went on to complete half marathons, marathons, ultras, 24-hour races and even 100-milers.

“I successfully reached my 5K goal in May 2015, and my friend asked if I wanted to train for a half marathon. I didn't even know how far it was, but said, ‘Sure!’ And... it escalated from there,” laughs Susan.

When searching for guidance for her new goal, Susan found the Facebook group for the Dayton chapter of She Runs This Town (SRTT), a free women’s running club. “I remember the first time I attended a group SRTT run, I was so intimidated. But they all accepted me, and I fit right in without being judged for being a new runner or running at a slower pace,” shares Susan.

SRTT was an amazing resource for all things running, and there were many moms in a similar life stage as Susan.

“Those women provided me with lots of wisdom and encouragement. They also introduced me to the Centerville-Washington Park District (CWPD) Pop-Up Park Challenges and weekly trail runs through CWPD and Up and Running. The challenges were a fantastic way for us to get our kids outside and off screens, and the moms got some much-needed social time,” adds Susan.

ARTICLE BY NINA WEIERMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTINA LITTLETON PHOTOGRAPHY

Exploring the local parks through trail running and the park challenges helps Susan be present in nature and clear her mind. “Trail running forces a slower pace through more technical sections that have lots of rocks and roots. Slowing down to appreciate nature helps cultivate gratitude for our amazing planet and all of creation. Nature is calming, and it helps to distract me from the everyday, never-ending to-do lists,” she shares.

Susan loved the CWPD Trail Master Challenge that required her to hike every single trail and encouraged her to venture down several trails she didn’t even know existed. Because of her love for running and the park challenges, Susan often marries the two together and plans SRTT group runs at the parks where specific challenges are happening.

“I like that some weeks the challenges require you to visit a specific park to accomplish a task because I can usually plan a run around it,” explains Susan. Just be careful if you join her at Rosewood Park, because she is likely planning to run hill repeats!

Running didn’t become only a hobby for Susan; it became a way to connect to herself, nature and a supportive community. Running trails and pounding the pavement, Susan is a modern-day explorer both in the physical and personal sense, constantly venturing into the unknown within herself, discovering that she is more capable than she imagined.

When asked about her greatest running accomplishment, she will tell you it was finishing her first 24-hour race. “It was the first time I had ever stayed awake all night long, and I was terrified about how it was going to go. Many things went wrong, but I pulled it together, stayed awake and completed 90 miles,” recalls Susan.

“Slowing down to appreciate nature helps cultivate gratitude for our amazing planet and all of creation.”

“I love that we, as a running community, are made up of young and old, all shapes and sizes, all abilities and we celebrate each other. If you have a goal, there are going to be runners who can help you reach it.”

Now training for her second 100-mile race scheduled for October, along with a 50K in September, Susan is spending quality time on the trails at Bill Yeck Park. Despite her achievements, she never forgets her first 5K or what it felt like to start working toward that goal.

“I love that we, as a running community, are made up of young and old, all shapes and sizes, all abilities and we celebrate each other. For a new runner, I would emphasize that there's a place for you. If you have a goal, there are going to be runners who can help you reach it,” encourages Susan.

For more information on paved paths, trails or the weekly trail running group, visit CWPD.org

This magazine exists because Mark said ‘Yes.’

Behind every City Lifestyle magazine is a leap of faith — someone who chose to shape the story of their city. They saw a chance to inspire, connect, and elevate the voices that make their community shine.

Now, new cities are waiting for someone to say yes. What if it was you?

Centerville Lifestyle

EXPLOREYOU R FAMILYTREE

Anne Wachs is a passionate genealogist and MLS librarian at Washington-Centerville Public Library (WCPL).

With decades of research experience under her belt, Anne has helped countless individuals trace their ancestry, uncover family mysteries and forge deeper connections with their roots.

“Genealogy is like a treasure hunt,” Anne says. “I like solving mysteries. You never know what you’re going to find, and sometimes it’s the surprises that are the most meaningful.”

A JOURNEY ROOTED IN CURIOSITY

This sense of curiosity led Anne to pursue a Master of Library Science (MLS), where she combined her love of research with a passion for uncovering stories hidden in historical records.

As a librarian at WCPL, Anne found the perfect platform to share her passion and expertise. She leads regular workshops, provides one-on-one research assistance and speaks at conferences throughout the county, helping people of all ages begin or deepen their genealogical journeys.

Local genealogy expert provides research support at Washington-Centerville

Public Library.

ARTICLE BY NAN PARASKEVOPOULOS PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEGAN SUTTLES

WHY EXPLORE YOUR FAMILY HISTORY?

Genealogy isn’t just about finding names and dates on paper—it’s about discovering the stories that make us who we are. Genealogy can also strengthen our family bonds by connecting generations through shared stories, preserving cultural and ethnic heritage, providing medical insights through understanding hereditary conditions, or even offering context for historical events through personal narratives.

“People want to know where they came from. Understanding your family history can provide a stronger sense of identity and belonging,” Anne explains. “It helps people understand the struggles, resilience and accomplishments of those who came before them.”

WHAT IF THERE AREN’T RECORDS?

For many Americans, particularly Black Americans whose ancestors were enslaved, there aren’t always written lineages. However, some researchers have created tools to connect the dots that are available. Anne suggests using DNA services such as 23andMe or Ancestry.com and then connecting with other people who have done the same. There are also Freedman’s Bank records and databases, such as African American Heritage, which are available to anyone living in Ohio.

When looking for relatives several generations removed, Anne also suggests looking through church or religious records for ancestors from other countries, as the church often had far more thorough record-keeping, especially in European nations occupied by several different countries throughout history.

GETTING STARTED: ANNE’S GENEALOGY RESEARCH TIPS

1. Start with What You Know

Begin by gathering information from home— birth certificates, family bibles, old photos and stories passed down through generations. “Talk to your relatives while you can,” Anne advises. “Even small details can become valuable leads.”

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2. Stay Organized

Use charts or digital tools to map out your family tree. Keep detailed notes on your sources so you can revisit or verify them later.

3. Use Library Resources

Many public libraries, including Washington-Centerville, offer access to powerful genealogy tools like Ancestry Library Edition, HeritageQuest and local newspaper archives.

4. Verify, Don’t Assume

“Family stories can sometimes become folklore,” Anne says. “Always cross-reference with official records—like census data, immigration forms and military records—to confirm accuracy.”

5. Be Patient and Persistent

Genealogical research can be slow and occasionally frustrating, especially when dealing with name changes, language barriers or missing records. “It’s important to celebrate small victories,” Anne encourages. “Each discovery is a step closer to understanding your family's story.”

A COMMUNITY RESOURCE FOR DISCOVERY

Washington-Centerville Public Library is a hub for local exploration, and its genealogy resources are second to none. Whether you’re just starting out or deep into your fifth-generation search, the library provides tools, support and expert guidance.

In a fast-paced world focused on progress, genealogy reminds us that looking back can be just as rewarding. Whether you uncover a pioneering ancestor, a forgotten love story or a historical figure you never knew you were related to, each find adds a new branch to the tree of understanding.“Everyone has a story,” Anne says.

For more information on services and to find out about upcoming genealogy workshops with Anne, visit WClibrary.info

Genealogy Resources at WCPL

FamilySearch.org

Run by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, this tool is near exhaustive. As an affiliate library, WCPL has access to an additional 400 million images.

FOLD3

A military resource, this database has documents from American wars, as well as naturalization records.

HERITAGEQUEST ONLINE

Dive into federal census records, family histories and city directories from the U.S.

MY HERITAGE LIBRARY EDITION

A free version of a database that is also available for purchase.

AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE

The database specifically focused on African American and Black history in the United States.

LOCAL HISTORY ARCHIVES

Search digitized newspapers, obituaries and other primary sources from the Centerville and Washington Township area.

GENEALOGY

WORKSHOPS

Attend classes that cover everything from getting started to advanced research strategies at WCPL.

MUSE

U M S

While summer is known as a time for family vacations, camp for kids and endless pool days, it’s also a perfect opportunity to explore the excellent museums of Southwest Ohio. Whether you hope to experience local history, inspiring artists or cultural artifacts, there are plenty of options throughout the Dayton and Cincinnati areas.

Before heading out on a local adventure, Washington-Centerville Public Library cardholders can check out a Culture Pass for up to two weeks from the Woodbourne Library. Each pass admits multiple people to the Dayton Art Institute, Carillon Historical Park and others. Many local museums also have special exhibits, activities and events scheduled for visitors throughout the summer and early fall. We’ve gathered a few to get you ready to explore!

ARTICLE BY AMANDA STOUT PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

DAYTON ART INSTITUTE AMERICAN SIGN MUSEUM

DaytonArtInstitute.org

The Dayton Art Institute (DAI) was founded in 1919 and has grown into one of the region’s premier fine arts museums. The museum’s collection spans 5,000 years of art history, including important American, Ancient American, Asian and European fine and decorative art collections. In addition to the permanent collection, which numbers more than 27,000 objects, DAI hosts world-class special exhibitions, educational programs and unique special events such as Oktoberfest on September 27 and 28. This summer (July 12–September 14), take in the Curtis Barnes Sr., Dayton Icon exhibit A painter and educator, Curtis Barnes Sr., created bold, colorful, experimental paintings with a distinctive blend of naturalism and abstraction. Explore the museum for free on August 17, when DAI welcomes art lovers of all backgrounds to the museum for a special Art For All day.

AmericanSignMuseum.org

The American Sign Museum in Cincinnati’s Camp Washington neighborhood is on a mission to celebrate the rich history of American signage through preservation and education. “Signs and sign making are a fascinating reflection of America through the years. If your experience at the American Sign Museum causes you to be more aware of signs in your travels and of their value to businesses and communities, we’ve done our job,” says Tod Swormstedt, founder and curator. This summer, enjoy guided tours and neon demonstrations every weekend, as well as sign-crafting activities in their classroom on Saturdays throughout July. Their first special exhibition, Glow & Behold, will also be on display through the end of July. All of these are included with general admission.

TAFT MUSEUM OF ART CARILLON HISTORICAL PARK

TaftMuseum.org

The Taft Museum of Art collection galleries are located in the Baum-Longworth-Sinton-Taft historic house. Built around 1820, it is downtown Cincinnati’s oldest wooden residence still in its original location. The mansion was home to generations of prominent Cincinnatians and contains over 800 works of art, featuring Chinese porcelains, American furniture, European decorative arts and major holdings of European and American paintings, including works by artists such as Francisco Goya, John Singer Sargent and James McNeill Whistler. They frequently host changing exhibitions and welcome summer visitors to enjoy The Crafted World of Wharton Esherick on view through September 7. The rarely loaned collection highlights the Pennsylvania artist’s career from his early woodcut illustrations to his revolutionary reimagining of furniture forms as organic sculpture. Admission is free on Sundays and Mondays.

DaytonHistory.org

Dayton History’s Carillon Historical Park museum complex opened in 1950 to showcase the region’s industrial innovations, transportation achievements and Dayton’s contributions to world progress. The beautiful 65-acre campus was designed by the Olmsted Brothers (landscape architects of NYC’s Central Park) and contains dozens of museum buildings and countless artifacts. Plan your visits around Deeds Carillon Concerts in July, August and September or explore during special events like the Band Organ Rally on July 12-13 and the Antique Fire Apparatus Show on August 30. For an extra special experience attend their signature event, Dayton’s Concours d’Elegance, on September 13. Featuring around 200 antique and classic automobiles and motorcycles, it’s a one-of-a-kind opportunity to see some of the finest vehicles in the country.

DRINKS UP

Crafting Cocktails with Fresh Garden Ingredients

Summer is here and what better way to quench your thirst than with drinks crafted from the season’s fresh produce? Embrace the natural sweetness of sun-ripened fruits and the invigorating zest of garden-fresh herbs. From crisp berry infusions to fragrant herbal blends, enjoy the art of crafting delicious and revitalizing beverages that celebrate the fresh flavors of summer.

LIME MINT

OSE

MOJITO

Ingredients:

• 10 fresh mint leaves

• 1 lime, cut into wedges

• 2 tablespoons white sugar (or simple syrup, to taste)

• 2 ounces white rum

• 1 ounce rose water (adjust to taste, as it can be potent)

• Club soda or sparkling water

• Garnish: Mint sprigs, lime wedges, edible rose petals (optional)

Instructions: Muddle:

Place the mint leaves and lime wedges in a glass. Add sugar. Use a muddler to gently crush the mint and lime. Pour the white rum and rose water into the glass. Stir well. Fill the glass with ice. Top with club soda or sparkling water. Stir gently. Garnish with a mint sprig, a lime wedge, and, if desired, edible rose petals.

ROSEMARY GRAPEFRUIT

PEAR FIZZ

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Gin (or Vodka)

• 1.5 oz Fresh Grapefruit Juice

• 1 oz Pear Liqueur (or Pear Juice)

• 0.75 oz Fresh Lime Juice

• 1 sprig of Rosemary

• Sparkling water

• Garnish: Rosemary sprig, grapefruit slice, pear slice

Instructions:

Place the rosemary sprig in a cocktail shaker. Lightly muddle the rosemary to release its oils. Add the gin (or vodka), grapefruit juice, pear liqueur and lime juice to the shaker. Add ice. Shake well until thoroughly chilled. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice. Top with sparkling water or Prosecco. Garnish with a rosemary sprig, a grapefruit slice, and a pear slice.

&BERRY SANGRIA

This sangria emphasizes fresh garden herbs and the sweetness of seasonal berries.

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio or Garnacha)

• ½ cup brandy or rum

• ½ cup elderflower liqueur

• 1 cup sparkling water

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced

• ½ cup fresh raspberries

• ½ cup fresh blueberries

• ¼ cup fresh mint leaves

• 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary

• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced (optional)

• 1 lime, thinly sliced

Instructions:

In a large pitcher, combine the white wine, brandy (or rum), and elderflower liqueur. Stir gently to mix.Add the sliced strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, mint leaves, rosemary sprigs, and cucumber slices to the pitcher. Gently muddle the berries and herbs slightly to release their flavors. Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld. Just before serving, add the sliced lime and sparkling water or club soda. Stir gently. Serve the sangria over ice, ensuring each glass gets a mix of fruit and herbs.

events

SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

JULY 3RD - 4TH

Americana Festival

Uptown Centerville | 6:00 PM

Get ready for Centerville’s biggest summer celebration! The Americana Festival returns July 3-4 with a patriotic 5K, a lively parade, over 300 craft and food vendors and dazzling fireworks. This year the festivities begin the night before the festival at the Centerville High School Stadium with a variety of food vendors and fireworks at 10 p.m. AmericanaFestival.org

JULY 4TH

Americana 5K Run/Walk

Centerville High School Stadium | 7:30 AM

Break out your festive running gear and meet your running buddies at Centerville High School Stadium for the annual Americana 5K Run/Walk. Hosted by the Centerville Noon Optimist Club and Up and Running, this race is chip-timed and offers a fun and active way to kick off the holiday with results available right after you cross the finish line. CentervilleNoonOptimist.com

JULY 7TH

Bike Centerville Community Ride

Village South Park | 10:00 AM

Explore Centerville and Washington Township on two wheels during the Bike Centerville Community Ride. Led by experienced cyclists, this easy-paced 10-15 mile ride is a great way to discover new routes to local shops, see parks you haven’t seen before and connect with fellow cyclists in your area. CWPD.org

JULY 11TH & 25TH

Heart of Centerville & Washington Township Party in the Park

Stubbs Park | 7:00 PM

Party in the Park brings live music, food and family fun to Stubbs Park on select Fridays this summer. On July 11, enjoy Head Games: A Tribute to Foreigner. Return July 25 for Centerville Pops! The Music Man Experience. Festivities begin at 5:30 p.m. with 30+ vendors and kids’ activities before the 7 p.m. concert. CentervilleOhio.gov

JULY 19TH

Dr. Danielle Hofer's New Location Open House

8379 Yankee Street | 1:00 PM

Join Dr. Danielle Hofer, BCND for her Open House on July 19 at 1 p.m. Enjoy local vendors, snacks, trial sessions of her therapeutic offerings and meet Dr. Danielle to learn more about her holistic clinic. Bring your family and friends for an uplifting afternoon. RSVP to hello@daniellehofer.com. CryinginMyCheesecake.com

JULY 26TH

Centerville-Washington Park District BIG Backyard Party

Oak Grove Park | 11:00 AM

The CWPD BIG Backyard Party returns on July 26 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. for a day packed with hands-on fun for all ages and abilities, including inflatables, archery, fishing, field games and more. Local vendors will offer food and treats and kids 14 and under can snag a free fishing pole while supplies last. CWPD.org