Centerville, OH October 2024

A Taste of Community

Welcome to our October issue, where we celebrate the vibrant world of Food + Drink. As autumn unfolds, we invite you to explore a delightful mix of stories that capture the essence of the season.

This month, we take you to a special culinary event where the spirit of a beloved chef is kept alive through a festive gathering and inspiring cooking demonstrations. Experience how this event brings the joy of cooking to life, echoing the warmth and approachability that have made this chef a household name.

We also spotlight a local initiative dedicated to alleviating food insecurity among Centerville students. This heartwarming program ensures that youth in need have access to nutritious meals over the weekends, thanks to the dedicated efforts of community volunteers.

As the weather cools, we offer a recipe that’s perfect for autumn gatherings. Discover how to create a beautifully decorated bread that’s both a visual and culinary delight, ideal for sharing with friends and family.

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we feature a touching story about an organization that brings joy and memorable experiences to women living with cancer. This foundation, inspired by a remarkable individual, strives to infuse life with moments of fun and respite.

We hope this issue of Centerville Lifestyle inspires you to savor the season, embrace new culinary adventures and support the wonderful causes in our community! MARK

ANDREA, PUBLISHER

October 2024

PUBLISHER

Mark Andrea | mark.andrea@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Amanda Stout | amanda.stout@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Karen Andrea

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Amanda Stout, Nina Weierman, Rod Bluhm, Marie Kriedman

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Christina Littleton, Cathy Lyons–Lyons Photography

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Branden Cooper

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

inside the issue

Food2Go Helps Students with Weekend Food

Foundation Gives the Gift of Fun

KWF

city scene

1: The Washington Twp. Cruise-In Ice Cream Social was made possible by local sponsors. 2: Kids enjoyed the opportunity to paint pictures on a retired ambulance. 3: A youngster tries on a Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office uniform. 4: There were more than 200 cars on display for the car show. 5: The kids’ activity area was a popular destination for families. 6: Washington Township elected officials and staff gathered for the event. 7: This green dragster was one of many featured vehicles at the car show.

Photography by Washington Township

It’s Easy To Make Friends

Meet Tom Adinaro, a 25-year Army veteran and retired colonel who embodies the spirit of community and vibrant living at Bethany Village. As an active women’s volleyball o cial, he referees at college, high school, and club levels, recently o ciating an NCAA game. His passion for bringing people together is evident in the neighborhood get-togethers, fostering a sense of camaraderie and connection within his block.

Scan the QR code and discover how Tom continues to serve and engage with his community or call us to schedule a personal consultation with Dana today.

8: ARTFest on Main drew large crowds to Historic Downtown Springboro. 9: Anthony Murrill of AS Murrill Art live painting at Dinner on Main. The painting was auctioned to benefit a Springboro mural project. 10: Live music filled the air for the enjoyment of all visitors.

Photography by Kelly

Settle

business monthly

New Exhibit Opens at Dayton Art Institute in October

The Dayton Art Institute will host a new exhibit beginning October 26. The exhibit, "Merry Grinchmas: Art of Dr. Seuss’ Holiday Classic & (B)ART! America’s Funniest Animated Family," will feature more than 200 works presented in a combined display of two traveling exhibits. It explores the art and creativity behind two animated classics. Original animated drawings by Theodore Seuss Geisel and Chuck Jones will be part of the exhibition. DaytonArtInstitute.org

Scan to read more

Centerville Optimists Named Optimist International Worldwide Club of the Year

The Centerville Noon Optimist Club has been named Optimist International Worldwide Club of the Year for the third time in less than ten years. The Centerville club invested more than $150,000 into youth programs in the community. They focus on community outreach impacting children with projects like the Tri-Star Basketball and Soccer events, Fishing Derby, Haunted Trail and Easter Egg Hunt. The Centerville club is approaching its 60th anniversary and boasts more than 300 members. CentervilleNoonOptimist.com

Centerville Forward Initiative Seeks Community Input

Centerville Forward is the City of Centerville's initiative to adopt a new comprehensive plan for the city. Centerville adopted its last plan in 2004. The goal is a more detailed plan to shape and preserve the city over the next five years utilizing public input. Centerville residents can get involved by volunteering, taking the online survey or participating in workshops. For more information including a link to the survey go to CentervilleForward.com

"If only there were a space where I could make personalized, handmade gifts this holiday season!”

If you have a library card, you already have free access to the only public library makerspace in Montgomery County: Creativity Commonsyour one-stop shop for crafting unique and thoughtful gifts.

Creativity Commons, located at RecPlex, offers:

• Laser cutters

• Large format and sublimation printers

• 3D printers

• Embroidery machines

• The guidance to use them, and so much more.

Unleash your creativity and make heartfelt gifts that will truly wow your loved ones.

Imagine surprising your family with a custom-made cutting board featuring a hand-written recipe laser cut into the wood? Or how about hilarious kitchen towels printed with inside jokes about your family? You can even make etched bar glasses with a name or funny slogan.

The possibilities are endless at Creativity Commons! All you pay for are the modest material costs.

The makerspace books quickly – especially looking ahead to the holidays. Use the QR code or call 937-610-4425 to make an appointment today. Your personalized holiday gifts are just waiting to be made.

Food2Go Helps Students with Weekend Food

COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERS SUPPORT

CENTERVILLE FAMILIES EXPERIENCING

FOOD INSECURITY

ARTICLE BY MARIE KRIEDMAN

As many families know, weekends can quickly fill up with errands, kid sports, outdoor activities or prepping for the upcoming week. Weekends can be extra challenging for families who are food insecure.

Food2Go is a local food program that provides weekend meals for preschoolers through twelfth graders in Centerville City Schools. The program began in 2008 and is based at Living Hope Church.

Melissa Moorman has been the director of Food2Go for three years. “Food2Go gives kids access to food sources on the weekend when they might not have adequate resources,” she says. “The food supplied through Food2Go is also something the students can prepare for themselves, like microwaveable mac and cheese or oatmeal. It is a balancing act of finding the healthiest foods that kids will eat and can prepare on their own.”

Last year, Food2Go helped an average of 160 kids per week across all 13 schools in Centerville and Melissa shares that they expect to serve about 200 students this school year. All Centerville students are eligible and the program is not income based. “It was a surprise to a lot of people that there was this type of need in Centerville,” she explains. “It is such a simple thing to take care of and we have the resources.”

Melissa volunteered occasionally with the program before becoming the director. “I was already part of the volunteer staff at Living Hope Church when the opportunity opened up to lead Food2Go,” she shares. “The organization stood out to me because of how it aligned with my belief in the importance of taking care of someone's physical needs before they can receive help in any other way.”

There are more than 30 volunteers who pack and deliver bags of food. Jasmine Davies has volunteered with the program for about four years. She learned about Food2Go through the church, where she has been a member for nearly eight years. “I started picking up food orders at Sam’s Club and delivering those to the church,” Jasmine says. “I am now one of the packers. We pack the food and load up the totes.”

Jasmine, who has three kids, has been bringing her children to volunteer for the past couple of years. “When I first learned about Food2Go, it seemed like good, simple work and something I wanted to be part of, especially knowing it directly impacts kids’ lives,” she explains. “Come as you are and give what you can. Even if you come once a month, you can make an impact. It can be as easy as picking up food when you’re at the store and dropping it off. It is a small pull on your time and attention, but it has a really big impact.”

Melissa notes that volunteers are always needed to help pack food. A list of accepted foods is also available on the program’s website.

According to Melissa, financial donations are the biggest help. Food2Go purchases most of the food through Sam’s Club, so they have items in bulk for packing hundreds of bags each week.

“I love how Food2Go truly works because a community works together,” she enthuses. “The schools identify the students who need the resources. Our volunteers are of all ages and come from all over the community. We have many local businesses, clubs, organizations and individuals that partner with us to give financially or donate food.”

Local supporters of Food2Go include the Centerville Washington Foundation, Philly Pretzel Factory, Centerville Women’s Civic Club, Kettering-Centerville Kiwanis Club, the Centerville Noon Optimists and more.

“The organization stood out to me because of how it aligned with my belief in the importance of taking care of someone's physical needs before they can receive help in any other way.”

“Food2Go’s support can help both the student and family focus on other things instead of food. It impacts students, families and schools by partnering with them and showing that the community cares and they are not alone.”

“Food2Go’s support can help both the student and family focus on other things instead of food. It impacts students, families and schools by partnering with them and showing that the community cares and they are not alone,” Melissa adds.

Families can also contact their student’s teacher or counselor if they need to participate in the program. “We all feel the pinch of groceries costing more. We’re trying to help all families who need that assistance,” she emphasizes.

To volunteer, donate or for more information, visit ELivingHope.com/Food2Go

ARTICLE BY MARIE KRIEDMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

KAREN WELLINGTON FOUNDATION STRIVES TO PUT FUN ON WOMEN’S CALENDARS FOR MAKING MEMORIES DURING DIFFICULT TIMES

THE GIFT OF FUN

“HER

The Karen Wellington Foundation (KWF) aims to make cancer easier for women and families. Karen Wellington was the inspiration for it all. She was diagnosed with breast

have fun and make memories even in the roughest of times.”

In 2024, the organization will have granted more than 3,000 gifts to women with breast cancer. They are

RESOLVE AND COURAGE TO LIVE LIFE TO THE FULLEST WHILE SHE BATTLED CANCER WAS BOTH

INSPIRING AND INFECTIOUS.”

cancer at 30 years old and passed in 2007 at the age of 40.

The foundation strives to capture Karen’s energy, zest for life and spirit by focusing on the joy of living. “Our mission is to put fun on the calendars of women (and their families) living with breast cancer,” explains Liz Knecht, Centerville resident and the Dayton Chapter leader.

Liz and Karen met when they were three years old, graduated from Centerville High School together in 1985 and the pair remained best friends until Karen’s passing. “Her resolve and courage to live life to the fullest while she battled cancer for 10 years was both inspiring and infectious,” Liz says. “She encouraged and supported others going through difficult times and was a fierce advocate for living in the moment. She taught me how to

a nonprofit and the magic happens thanks to the support of more than 500 hundred volunteers and 11 staff members. The KWF team is a family affair. Karen’s husband, Kent, is the founder and chair of the advisory board. Karen and Kent had two children together – Robby, who sits on the advisory board, and Angeline, who is the digital marketing manager.

For Liz, honoring her friend Karen goes hand-in-hand with having a positive impact on families and women affected by and living with breast cancer. “I see the impact in the pure joy and smiles of our recipients while engaging in a gift of fun, in the memories that families make when they get to spend time and focus on each other and not cancer, in the meaningful exchange between volunteers/ambassadors with our grateful recipients and so much more,” Liz shares.

In addition to their home base in Cincinnati, there are nine chapters of the foundation located in Dayton, Columbus, Cleveland, Wooster, Indianapolis, Kalamazoo, Denver, New England and South Florida.

Although the group’s language is geared toward women, the foundation honors all individuals fighting breast cancer. “We have recipients of all genders,” explains Emma Hooi, marketing and events manager for KWF. “Breast cancer is not as common among men, but we will help anyone and everyone who is nominated.” The nomination process asks individuals about their idea of fun with the goal that everyone who is nominated gets a gift.

Once an individual is selected to receive a gift of fun, KWF surprises the recipient. The presentation can be an intimate affair or a large gathering. KWF strives to tailor the gift of fun presentation to the recipient, and the attention he or she would be most comfortable receiving. Liz notes that KWF always presents flowers to the recipients because Karen loved flowers.

“Sharing the ‘fun now’ message resonates with these ladies,” Liz says. “We call it love bombs and several people from the foundation attend. It feels so good to give them a gift of fun. We read a letter, we give gifts and flowers and we give hugs. It is so cool.”

“WE’VE COME A LONG WAY WITH AWARENESS AND LEARNING ABOUT HAVING MAMMOGRAMS EARLY.”

The foundation continuously looks for ways to spread the word about their gifts of fun. People are encouraged to nominate themselves, friends, family, neighbors, co-workers, acquaintances or anyone they know in active breast cancer treatment. Although the foundation is donation based, Emma emphasizes that the KWF mantra is “we give first.”

Emma also notes that October is breast cancer awareness month. “We will have activities all month long to encourage nominations and giving,” she says. “All information is on our events page or you can find us on social media @kwfliving.”

Liz adds, “When Karen was diagnosed, she was 30 years old and had a 3-year-old and a 1-year-old. The doctors kept saying it was mastitis. We’ve come a long way with awareness and learning about having mammograms early. In October we do so many fun things to encourage personal awareness of breast cancer and how to bring the fun into the mix. It’s a connection to Karen that I will always have and it means so much to me.”

For more information about nominations, donations or volunteering, visit KarenWellingtonFoundation.org To learn about the Dayton Chapter and get involved, email Liz at liz.knecht@ karenwellingtonfoundation.org

ARTICLE BY NINA WEIERMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTINA LITTLETON PHOTOGRAPHY

Savoring Julia

The DLM Culinary Center team keeps the spirit of Julia Child alive.

Julia Child was a legendary cookbook author and television pioneer, bringing one of the first cooking shows to American TV. Her relatable, unpretentious personality and willingness to laugh off errors reassured viewers that they too could try French cooking without fear of failure. The same warmth and authenticity that Julia Child was so loved for can be found alive and well at the Julia Child Food & Wine Birthday Celebration held at the Dorothy Lane Market (DLM) Culinary Center on her birthday, August 15, for the past six years.

"She had a love for life that was contagious, and she brought that into the kitchen. We try to embody that same spirit in our classes,” shares Peggy Neary, manager of the (DLM) Dorothy Lane Market Culinary Center.

A beloved tradition, reflecting the spirit of Child's work through expertly crafted dishes, wine pairings and the camaraderie of shared meals, the Julia Child Food & Wine Birthday Celebration is not simply a class, it's a festive, educational event. Peggy and her team, Instructor Ruth Neely and Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW) Teresa Kearney provide an immersive and interactive experience, engaging all senses and leaving no detail overlooked.

“It is always a four or five-course menu including a seafood course and a meat course. From there we offer an appetizer, soup or salad course and dessert. I hope that guests leave with a deep sense of our love and passion for cooking, and the joy that comes from sharing a meal with others,” says Peggy.

Ruth’s passion for cooking is evident in her teaching. She brings Julia’s spirit to life with her step-by-step method, emphasizing the importance of understanding every aspect of a recipe.

“Julia’s recipes are teaching tools, designed to give a 'heads-up' approach to cooking," Ruth explains. Her favorite Julia Child recipe to teach is Boeuf à la Bourguignonne, a rich beef stew that exemplifies the kind of robust, flavorful cooking Julia championed.

Julia Child famously said, “I enjoy cooking with wine, sometimes I even put it in the food,” so an event celebrating her life wouldn’t be complete without a perfectly paired wine for each dish. Teresa ensures that every offering is balanced with the perfect French wine, echoing Julia's own love for French wine regions. "Even though Julia recommended wines from all over the world later in her career, for this class, I prefer to stick to French wines," Teresa notes. When asked what wines at DLM Julia might have loved, Teresa jokingly answers, “All of them!” and then adds, “But seriously, I believe anything from Burgundy would be her favorite.”

CONTINUED >

“French cuisine is at the heart of gastronomy and Julia Child brought that to American home cooks. We are proud to carry that torch forward."

For those who have yet to experience a class at the DLM Culinary Center, Peggy offers a compelling invitation. "We share the highest quality food, create memorable interactions and work with a talented team to produce something truly special." For nearly 20 years, Peggy has dedicated her time and efforts to the DLM Culinary Center and her passion and devotion are evident in every class the center offers.

As the DLM Culinary Center continues to grow, so does its commitment to preserving the legacy of

Julia Child. "Her influence is evident in everything we produce," Peggy says. "French cuisine is at the heart of gastronomy, and Julia Child brought that to American home cooks. We are proud to carry that torch forward."

The DLM Culinary Center fall calendar is rich with foods of the season. There is a vast array of subjects from Flavors of India to Ghanaian Food and Culture, to Hands-on Apple Pie and Old World Cookies. Below, we have included a few upcoming classes to pique your interest. Visit DorothyLane.com/Culinary-Center for the full list.

Upcoming Classes to Try at DLM

• Best of the Fest (October 4, 6-8 p.m.) Join Susie and Iván Núñez for a festive Oktoberfestinspired class, featuring hearty German dishes paired with beer and wine to celebrate the season’s best flavors.

• Flavors of India (October 16, 6-8 p.m.) Explore the vibrant spices and bold flavors of Indian cuisine.

• Homemade Apple Pie (October 30, 6-8 p.m.) Mary Cooney offers a hands-on pie-baking class where you’ll master homemade pie dough, create a take-home pie and craft mini hand pies.

picture perfect focaccia

ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE AMLUNG & AMANDA STOUT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CATHY LYONS–LYONS PHOTOGRAPHY

decorative focaccia bread recipe

servings: 24 ingredients

• 16 ounces warm water (110°F), divided into 2 bowls

• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

• 7 grams of active dry yeast

• 2 ounces olive oil, for making the dough

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 tablespoon flaky sea salt, for sprinkling

• 24 ounces bread flour

• 4 ounces olive oil, for pan, hands and drizzling

• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped

• Vegetables, herbs & meats for decorative design

directions

1. Mix the first cup of warm water with the yeast and sugar. Set it aside for about 5 minutes or until the yeast wakes up and becomes bubbly.

2. Place the water/yeast mixture in the bowl of a stand mixer with the dough hook attached.

3. Add in about 1 cup of flour and mix on low until combined.

4. Add in the rest of the water, the olive oil, salt and half of the remaining flour. Mix on low until combined.

5. Continue adding in flour while mixing on low until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl. The dough will be very soft.

6. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes or until the dough bounces back when lightly pressed.

7. Place the dough into a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours or until the dough has doubled in size.

8. Pour enough olive oil into a 12" x 17" sheet pan to make a thin layer of oil that covers the entire bottom of the pan.

9. Put some olive oil on your hands to prevent sticking and then pull the focaccia dough out of the bowl. It will be very loose. Lay it in the pan and begin stretching it. If it shrinks back, walk away for about 15 minutes to let the gluten relax before you stretch again.

10. Once you're done stretching, cover it with plastic wrap and place it into the refrigerator overnight to develop the best flavor.

11. When you're ready to bake your bread, take it out of the fridge and let it warm up for about 30 minutes. Dimple the surface with oiled fingers to create some areas where the olive oil can collect. Drizzle a good amount of olive oil onto the top of the bread until all the dimples have a little oil in them. Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top.

12. After your focaccia has rested for 30 minutes, decorate the top any way you like with veggies, herbs and meats. Brush all of your veggies and herbs with more olive oil to prevent burning.

13. Bake in a preheated 450ºF oven for 20-25 minutes or until the focaccia bread is nice and golden. Enjoy!

Decorating Tips: Be creative and just have fun designing your bread!

• Good vegetable choices to make flower designs include sliced purple onions, red, yellow and orange peppers, sliced carrot rounds and grape tomatoes.

• Green onions sliced longways, chives and asparagus make great flower stems.

OCTOBER 1ST - 20TH

WCPL 4th Annual "After Hours: A Staff Exhibit"

Woodbourne Library | 10:00 AM

The 4th annual “After Hours: A Staff Exhibit” is on display at the Woodbourne Library through October 20. The exhibit features art created in various mediums by talented people who work at the library. The art displayed demonstrates Washington-Centerville Public Library’s (WCPL) commitment to local art and artists, whose work frequently occupies the space. WCLibrary.info

OCTOBER 5TH

Centerville Fall Fest

St. Leonard | 12:00 PM

Centerville’s annual fall festival is one of the largest events held in Centerville and Washington Township. A vast vendor village showcasing local goods, crafts and businesses is the highlight. You’ll also find live music, food trucks, a beer garden and family activities. Vendor hours are 12-5 p.m. with a concert to follow. HoCWT.org

OCTOBER 12TH

Truck or Treat

Oak Grove Park | 10:00 AM

Kids of all ages are invited to Oak Grove Park for Truck or Treat! Community partners will offer treats and giveaways from their vehicles. Children can honk a firetruck horn, sit on a tractor and push buttons in a police car! Trunk or Treat offers a special sensory time with reduced noise from 10-10:30 a.m. No pets, please. CWPD.com

OCTOBER 12TH

Pumpkin Fall Fest at Austin Landing

The Park at Austin Landing | 2:00 PM

Pumpkin Fall Fest at Austin Landing is back on October 12 at 2:00 p.m! This family-friendly pumpkin party features a variety of fall-flavored treats like pumpkin lattes, pumpkin pizza and pumpkin-flavored beers and wines. There will be music, entertainment, crafts and other activities. Admission is free. AustinLanding.com

OCTOBER 15TH & 16TH

Centerville Noon Optimist Haunted Trail

Countryside Park | 7:00 PM

The trails of Washington Township RecPlex Countryside Park fill with ghosts, ghouls and zombies on October 15 & 16 from 7-8:30 p.m. Guides lead kids through a frightening path. Visitors are encouraged to bring donations of nonperishable food items for a local food bank. This free event is recommended for ages 8-16. Registration is not required. CentervilleNoonOptimist.com

OCTOBER 26TH

Glass Fusing: Night Light

Activity Center Park | 9:00 AM

Kathy Woodruff from Busy Beaver will lead beginners and experienced crafters in creating a unique glass night light. Supplies will be provided. Participants must be 16 and older. Projects will be available for pick up approximately one week after the class. Registration is required by October 19. To register go to CWPD.org