



meet your new Centerville neighbor


Now located in Sugarcreek Plaza

View wait times and save your spot online
meet your new Centerville neighbor
Now located in Sugarcreek Plaza
View wait times and save your spot online
May brings Mother’s Day, the end of the school year, pools opening for the summer and of course—our annual women’s issue! The collection of stories this month showcases inspiring women who are serving the community, educating the next generation, caring for people with different abilities and challenges, and following their dreams to start a business. And don’t worry guys, you’re up next month!
Every day women make the community a better place to live, learn and grow. We are honored to spotlight four women doing just that: Kim Boehm, Centerville 2024 Teacher of the Year; Joan Cordonnier, President of the Centerville Noon Optimist Club; Cari Oehlenschlager, Senior Service Manager at Graceworks Enhanced Living; and local artist Zarana Vakil. Learn how each of these women is making an impact on local residents.
For more than 100 years, the Dayton Woman’s Club (DWC) has been a place for creating connections and collaborating to strengthen communities through historical preservation, public engagement, cultural activities and educational programs. Read about DWC’s journey from humble beginnings and historically significant members to its recent evolution and upcoming events open to all.
No matter where you are, a smile is universal. A simple smile can show kindness, friendship and laughter. For twenty years, Dr. Heidi Sprowls has been helping patients smile confidently. She shares how a dream became a reality when she opened her dental practice in Centerville. Be sure to take a look at her advice for maintaining a healthy smile.
Before we let you explore the pages of the May issue, there are some thanks that I would like to share. Thank you to all our advertising partners and readers who continue to support our publication which recently celebrated two years in print!
To our wonderful and talented team, I am truly grateful for all your amazing work that goes into creating Centerville Lifestyle every month.
Lastly, a BIG THANK YOU to all the mothers (especially you Ma!) and women who do so much for their families and communities—you are loved and appreciated.
PUBLISHER
Mark Andrea | mark.andrea@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Amanda Stout | amanda.stout@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Karen Andrea
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Nan Paraskevopoulos, Nina Weierman, Rod Bluhm
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Christina Littleton Photography, Austin + Shilo Creative
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
The Dayton Woman’s Club opened its doors in 1916 and still invites everyone to lunch.
Dr. Heidi Sprowls realizes her dream to build her own dental practice in Centerville.
inspiring women make an impact in the Centerville community with their work and pastimes.
1: The KidsView 2024 exhibit celebrated artwork created by kindergarten through eighth grade students. 2: March was Youth Art Month, which emphasizes the value of art education for all children. 3: Young artists displayed their work in the Performing Arts Center. 4: Art classes are offered to all students K-12 in Centerville Schools. 5: Artworks of different media were featured at the exhibit. 6: Some art pieces were collaborative efforts by the art students. 7: Students with artwork in the show were informed by their teachers.
8: Dorothy Lane Market’s 15th annual Health Fair was held March 23. 9: Guests enjoyed free samples from food vendors and free goodies. 10: A wide variety of companies were represented at the health fair. 11: All in attendance were provided with a gift bag containing free samples and a brochure. 12: Dexter as Peter Pan and Evan Smith as Captain Hook in the Mainstage Series production of Peter Pan 13: Ed Iverson as Captain Hook and Gabe as Peter Pan in the second cast of the play. 14: John Darling (Connor), Wendy Darling (Sadie) and Michael Darling (Colton).
For more than 75 years, Bethany Village has set the standard for excellence in retirement living in the greater Dayton area. Explore what our award-winning campus has to offer:
• Fine cuisine in tasteful settings
• Casual and delicious bistro dining
• Fresh, fun and engaging social calendar
• An energizing and stabilizing tness program
• Quiet moments to explore our park-like setting
• Caring & skilled staff
Construction began on Stubbs Park improvements in early March. The highly anticipated project will improve multiple areas of the popular park in Centerville. The entrance will be improved by simplifying the traffic pattern and adding clearer markings. The amphitheater will be renovated and a new event plaza will be constructed nearby improving concessions. The restrooms will be made ADA compliant and changes will be made to the grounds. Construction on the project is expected to be finished in May 2025. CentervilleOhio.gov
Centerville High School’s (CHS) junior culinary management team took top honors at the state competition held in March qualifying the team for nationals. Members of the team are Benny Huang, Aaliyah Ibrahim, Zach Krause, Salona Ruth and Jordan Weeks. Salona Ruth received a special leadership award. Culinary arts is part of the career tech education program collaborative between Centerville, Kettering and Oakwood that offers 19 different programs for juniors and seniors. Centerville.K12.OH.US
Heart of Centerville & Washington Township presents the third annual Centerville Merchant Market. Enjoy more than 100 vendors, plentiful food trucks, live music and drinks. Family-friendly activities will include free raffles and entertainment. You’ll find art, clothing, jewelry, vintage items and more. The Merchant Market will be held May 19 from noon to 5 p.m. on the lawn outside of St. Leonard Retirement Community. Admission is free and the event is rain or shine. HoCWT.org
The Dayton Woman’s Club opened its doors in 1916 and still invites everyone to lunch.
ARTICLE BY NAN PARASKEVOPOULOS PHOTOGRAPHY BY AUSTIN + SHILO CREATIVEEstablished 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 society and the spirit of tireless community service.
“Through the years we've been the place for women to come to connect and break out of cultural barriers."
At its inception, the club was envisioned as a space where women could gather for social, civic, and literary activities. Over time, its mission expanded to encompass a broader commitment to empowering women and strengthening the community through historical preservation, public engagement, cultural activities and educational programs.
One significant shift in the club's mission was its transition from a 501(c)(7) club for women to a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization open to both women and men. This change reflects a renewed focus on inclusivity and diversity, mirroring the club's original ethos of providing a platform for women's voices while embracing the contributions of all members of the community.
As current Vice President Kim Villalva reflects, “Through the years we've been the place for women
to come to connect and break out of cultural barriers. We feel that we are honoring those who came before us by continuing to provide opportunities for connection, learning and growth.”
From its earliest days, the Dayton Woman's Club has been home to women who made significant contributions to society by promoting women's rights, education, and civic and cultural engagement. Figures like Electra C. Doren, suffragist, library director and innovator and Julia Shaw Patterson Carnell who cofounded the Dayton NAACP and helped establish the Dayton Art Institute. Another member, Katharine Wright Haskell, was a suffragist, educator and PR manager for her famous aviator brothers.
Designated with an Ohio Historical Marker, the importance of preserving the club's historic building cannot be overstated. As a physical embodiment of the club's rich history and heritage, the building serves as a constant reminder of the women who came before and the legacy they have left behind. By maintaining this space, the club ensures that future generations will continue to benefit from its resources and opportunities for growth.
Its role as a meeting place that fosters community engagement is central to the club's mission. By opening its doors to local groups and organizations, the club provides a space for networking, idea sharing and mutual support. Through diverse programming and events, such as educational workshops, cultural presentations and discussions on leadership, the club aims to empower individuals of all ages and backgrounds.
One of the club’s long-standing sponsoring members Joey Thiel says, “For me, it has always been about relationships and new friendships. That’s why I joined and have been so thankful for that."
As the Dayton Woman's Club looks toward the future, its commitment to building relationships, promoting education and empowering the community remains unwavering. Through continued work with local organizations and innovative programming, the club seeks to grow its legacy while embracing the challenges and opportunities of the modern era.
The DWC hosts affordable weekly luncheons on Wednesdays from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. and is looking forward to its Mother’s Day tea on May 11. On May 23, Mollie Hauser will present a program on DWC history and its relationship with the Dayton community. All events are generally open to the public and details can be found at DaytonWomansClub.org.
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 office.
“Dr. Rob Stofer was an excellent dentist and a great teacher. I worked there with a group of doctors who were amazing mentors and friends to me,” shares Dr. Sprowls.
Over the next 17 years, Dr. Sprowls gained knowledge in her field from her real-world experience. Her commitment to dentistry allowed her to become adept at diagnosing complex cases, mastering new technologies and refining her techniques to deliver superior outcomes.
“The passage of time always brings many changes. During those 17 years, I gained knowledge, confidence and strength. I developed a desire to do dentistry my own way. I started dreaming of my own office,” Dr. Sprowls says.
In 2019, she was able to make that dream a reality when she purchased her current practice from Dr. Mark Wenzel.
“The practice was what I had been dreaming of and I put everything on the line to buy it from Dr. Wenzel. I built a team of wonderful people to provide general dentistry to patients that reflected what I had learned from the greatest dentists in the area,” conveys Dr. Sprowls.
ARTICLE BY NINA WEIERMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTINA LITTLETON PHOTOGRAPHYOpening her own practice has been rewarding for numerous reasons, because for many years, Dr. Sprowls didn’t believe she could ever achieve it. ”There were so many years that I could never imagine owning a practice. I didn't have faith in myself,” she says. “I sat at my desk on lunch break the other day listening to my employees in the next room laughing and talking. I realized I created a place where I can provide a living for people who enjoy being with one another. It feels like home.”
Dr. Sprowls and her team are committed to offering a caring and nonjudgmental environment. “My staff and I provide an atmosphere of kindness and acceptance. We take the time to listen to each patient. We don't scold our patients or ridicule them for the condition of their teeth and gums and we educate patients about what treatments are best,” she shares.
The most rewarding moments for Dr. Sprowls and her team are when a patient needs a cosmetic solution. A recent patient told Dr. Sprowls that she never wanted to be in photos with her grandchildren because she was ashamed of her smile. Dr. Sprowls was able to help her with Invisalign®. “Now she smiles, laughs and poses for photos with confidence,” Dr. Sprowls says. “Invisalign is a great way to straighten teeth without wires and brackets. They’re barely visible and won’t cut or poke you like traditional braces.”
Since opening the doors to her practice, Dr. Sprowls has enjoyed continuing to build relationships with her patients. Having been in the Centerville area for many years, she has watched children grow up and now sees their children as patients. “I have become very close to many patients over the years and I look forward to seeing all of them,” she shares.
“The passage of time always brings many changes. During those 17 years, I gained knowledge, confidence and strength. I developed a desire to do dentistry my own way.”
“My staff and I provide an atmosphere of kindness and acceptance. We take the time to listen to each patient. We don't scold our patients or ridicule them for the condition of their teeth and gums and we educate patients about what treatments are best.”
MAINTAIN A HEALTHY SMILE WITH ADVICE FROM DR. SPROWLS:
1. Your parents' dentures don’t define your future. Dr. Sprowls emphasizes that your parents' or grandparents' dental history doesn't predict your own. “That belief can lead to patients who give up,” she shares.
2. Brushing before bed is key. Dr. Sprowls underscores that brushing before bedtime is 100% the most important factor. “For the best oral hygiene, nothing should be left on your teeth before your head hits the pillow,” states Dr. Sprowls.
3. Ditch the gummy vitamins. Gummy vitamins containing sugar stick to the teeth like glue, creating an environment for bacteria to thrive and leading to tooth decay if proper oral hygiene is not maintained.
4. Breaking habits is hard for everyone. Dr. Sprowls is passionate about helping patients identify the habits or challenges in their lives that are causing decay, gum disease and more. “I want people to learn about these things without feeling ashamed, judged or put down. Dental professionals are humans who are susceptible to all of these problems too.”
For more information about Dr. Sprowls and her service offerings, visit TheCentervilleDentist.com
February
EXHIBITION SPONSORS
BENEFACTOR
Linda Black-Kurek Family Foundation
Patty & Jerry Tatar
DIRECTOR
Carolyn Brethen
Barbara Pereyma-Farrara
Linda Lombard & Paul Marshall
Robert & Christina O’Neal
A grant from the General Fund of The Troy Foundation
PROMOTING
Wanda & William Lukens
SUPPORTING
The Grimes Family
The Daniel Kerber Family
ADDITIONAL SUPPORT
The Fulker & Armstrong Families
Julia D. Hobart
Rachel, Helen, Katharine & Surrie
Hobart & Denler Hobart Gardens, LLC
The Family of Glyn & Gladys Williams
Winans Coffee & Chocolate
FRIENDS OF AKA
Howard & Harriet Cary Family
Dr. Jason & Tiffini Johnston
Koverman Staley Dickerson Insurance
Irma Osadsa & Thom Payne
Laurie & Tom Pew
937-223-4ART (4278) | daytonartinstitute.org
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 commitment to enriching lives and nurturing community spirit.
If you are truly lucky, you’ve had a teacher like Kim Boehm who has surely touched countless lives in her more than 17-year tenure. Recently named Centerville’s 2024 Teacher of the Year, Kim who primarily teaches biology to freshmen and sophomores at Centerville High School (CHS), brings her classroom to life with an instruction style that gives Ms. Frizzle a run for her money.
Kim’s teaching methods help bring science to life, often employing the use of music and dance to help students remember important concepts. “Every year I perform “Mendel the Musical” when teaching genetics. I act out a synopsis of Gregor Mendel conducting his pea plant experiments, a dramatization that includes me singing songs such as “The Pea Plant Connection,” a parody of “Rainbow Connection” from The Muppet Movie,” explains Kim.
Kim’s passion as an educator is clear: “It’s awesome when I catch a look on a student’s face and I can see that whatever they were trying to figure out has clicked and their whole face lights up.”
Kim attributes her success to her supportive husband and the guidance of her educators like Professor Mary Ellen Dillon of the University of Dayton. “She was an amazing mentor. I still use many of the teaching methods that I learned from Professor Dillon,” shares Kim.
“It’s awesome when I catch a look on a student’s face and I can see that whatever they were trying to figure out has clicked and their whole face lights up.”
Joan Cordonnier, president of the Centerville Noon Optimists embodies the spirit of altruism. “I have always been a person who jumps in to help,” shares Joan. It was this desire to help that led her to her first Centerville Noon Optimist meeting, but she will tell you that becoming the president of the club was never on her agenda. What started as simple volunteerism evolved into a deep commitment to the club’s mission of serving children in the community.
Born and raised in Centerville, Joan’s connection to her hometown runs deep, having graduated from CHS and raising her own family here. “I am very proud of all of the money that we donate to the Centerville community. Our fundraisers, like the Tom Frazier Golf Outing, the Avenue of Flags and the Christmas Tree Lot, allow us to donate to Dayton Children’s Hospital, the CentervilleWashington Park District, Washington Township RecPlex and more,” conveys Joan.
An avid cyclist, some of her favorite events are those that help get kids moving. From organizing the Americana Festival 5K to spearheading initiatives addressing mental health among students, Joan’s tenure as president has been marked by a steadfast dedication to making a positive impact.
Joan’s advice is simple: “Just say yes! The more you give to anything in life, the more you get out of it. I was so nervous about the public speaking involved with being president. Now, I look forward to spending every Tuesday with about 100 of my favorite friends. I always leave the meetings uplifted.”
“Just say yes! The more you give to anything in life, the more you get out of it.”
Cari Oehlenschlager is entering her 27th year with Graceworks Enhanced Living, a secure residence for people with intellectual and developmental challenges. Joining in 1997 as a Direct Support Professional, she has witnessed the expansion of the agency from its first group home in Dayton to now operating 25 homes, a day program and a shelter.
Cari has grown with the company and as Senior Service Manager, she is responsible for 125 employees and nearly 100 residents. “I have many routine responsibilities, but I am always a phone call or email away from shifting directions when a manager or resident needs my support,” shares Cari.
Cari’s residents have in a sense become a piece of her extended family. As a single adoptive and foster mom, Cari has enjoyed bringing her kids in for fun events at work such as holiday parties or summer picnics over the years. “One of our residents still attempts to pick up my 18-year-old every time she sees him because she has known him since he was three weeks old,” she laughs.
For Cari, fulfillment comes from witnessing residents thrive. One memorable experience involved a teen resident with behavioral challenges. “Back in 1999, I was opening a group home for teens with significant behavioral challenges. One of my residents was so explosive that staff would quit on the spot. It was a long journey, but we have a strong bond and I look forward to his giant bear hugs when I get to see him,” shares Cari.
“I have many routine responsibilities, but I am always a phone call or email away from shifting directions when a manager or resident needs my support.”
Local artist Zarana Vakil was drawn to art in any form from an early age. Growing up in India, Zarana’s artistic inclinations were nurtured by her mother, who instilled in her a love for painting. “My mother is very creative, and she encouraged me to take painting and craft classes during summer vacations,” shares Zarana.
Despite growing up to pursue a career in technology, Zarana’s innate passion for art persisted, eventually resurfacing when she moved to Centerville. “For several years after finishing my education, I got busy with my career and my family. When we bought our home in Centerville, I got excited about creating a painting above the mantelpiece and that is when my journey towards art started again,” recounts Zarana.
Zarana enjoys using a variety of glass forms to create paintings. Inspired by nature’s beauty and her cultural heritage, Zarana’s artwork reflects vibrant landscapes, intricate patterns and divine imagery drawn from her Indian upbringing. “I have always been drawn to nature; beautiful landscapes, sunrises and sunsets, night skies, colorful flowers as well as various animals and birds and I love to capture their essence in my artwork,” she says.
As she continues to evolve as an artist, Zarana’s advice holds true: “If something excites you and makes you happy, take a step towards it, however small. You never know, as you start walking, a path may appear.” With aspirations for future exhibitions and a steadfast commitment to her craft, Zarana’s artistic journey promises to inspire and delight audiences for years to come.
To see more of Zarana’s artwork, follow her on Facebook: GlaZ Art and Instagram: Instagram. com/Glazart24
“If something excites you and makes you happy, take a step towards it, however small. You never know, as you start walking, a path may appear.”
These cute and colorful dishes work perfectly to organize and display your jewelry, keys, or you name it! And you know what? They’re so easy to make!
supplies you’ll need:
• Wooden bowls, trays, etc.
• Gold leaf (or metallic gold paint)
• Gentle Gold leaf brush
• Mod podge (or gold leaf adhesive)
• Acrylic paint
• Paint brushes
• Painters tape (optional)
• Grab a wooden bowl, some acrylic paint, and a brush.
• Hand paint some paint on one section of the bowl.
• Let the first coat dry and paint another two to three coats of paint until you’re happy with the result.
• Let the paint fully dry.
• I wanted my gold leaf paper to overlap the paint for a layered look, so I took a paint brush and painted some Mod Podge in an overlapping pattern.
• Once the Mod Podge gets tacky, use your hand to apply the gold leaf and accompanying wax sheet.
• Push the gold leaf onto the tacky glue, then remove the top layer of paper.
• Use your fingers to gently push the gold leaf onto the glue a little further.
• Next, use the gold leaf brush to smooth over the whole area and gently wipe away any excess gold leaf. Pay extra attention to the edges.
• Next, smooth the gold leaf section as much as possible, but don’t worry about any imperfections. The organic look of the gold leaf being imperfect gives the piece character.
• Next, work your way to the outer edge.
• Once the gold leaf is perfected, gently brush over the leaf with some Mod Podge to seal it to the bowl.
• Let it completely dry and enjoy!
ARTICLE BY AUDREY KUETHER“They’re a great and affordable gift idea for friends.”
MAY 3RD - 20TH
Town Hall Theatre | 3:00 PM
The musical adaptation of Disney’s beloved film Finding Nemo comes to the Town Hall Theatre stage. Follow the adventures of Nemo and friends including Marlin, Dory and Crush. This epic tale of self-discovery is sure to warm the hearts of everyone in attendance. For showtimes and tickets go to WashingtonTwp.org
MAY 10TH - 11TH
Montgomery County Fairgrounds | 10:00 AM
The City Mercantile presents an open-air spring market featuring live music, food trucks and more than 150 vendors of vintage clothing, home goods, handmade items, plants, garden decor and more. The event is scheduled for May 10-11 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For tickets go to TheCityMercantile.com
MAY 10TH
The Golf Club at Yankee Trace | 7:00 AM
The fourth annual Centerville Rotary Club Golf Outing is scheduled for May 10 at 7 a.m. The outing helps fund college and trade scholarships for local students. Enjoy breakfast, lunch and refreshments on the course, use of the driving range, raffles and great prizes. To learn more and sign up visit CentervilleRotary.com
MAY 16TH
Bill Yeck Park, Smith House | 7:30 PM
Method Yoga Studio’s Megan Lees leads yoga by a campfire, including warm-up, breath work, standing and flowing poses and relaxation. This class is open to adults 18 years of age and up. Registration is required by May 14. The event is scheduled for May 16 at 7:30 p.m. For registration go to CWPD.org
MAY 25TH
The Park at Austin Landing | 3:00 PM
Cheese Fest is back at Austin Landing Park May 25 from 3-10 p.m. Enjoy a selection of foods from more than 15 food vendors. Relax in the craft beer garden where a selection of beers and seltzers will be available. Live music will be featured throughout the festival and the Austin Landing fireworks will complete the evening. AustinLanding.com
MAY 27TH
Cornerstone Park | 9:00 AM
The City of Centerville will hold a ceremony in honor of veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice. Local community and civilian leaders and community members will take part in the tribute. This event will be held at Cornerstone Park on May 27 at 9 a.m. For more information visit CentervilleOhio.gov