Centerville, OH June 2024

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Leading by Example

We can all probably think of a man or several men in our lives who had a big impact on us at one time or another. Perhaps it was someone pushing us to be a better version of ourselves because they saw the best in us or someone we looked up to for guidance. Maybe it was someone we didn't personally know, but they inspired us with their greatness. We recognize and appreciate the impact these role models have on our lives.

An inspirational man has the incredible power and privilege of shaping and mentoring young people in their lives to grow and mature in a multitude of ways. Whether they are a father, a coach, an uncle or a boss, being a role model and leading by example can make a lasting impact on those watching.

In this issue, we are excited to share stories from a few of the men and organizations who are leading by example and shaping the future of our community through education, health, mentorship and business. Be sure to read through the magazine to learn more about Big Brothers Big Sisters Miami Valley, Jesse Gaither, Dr. Michael Albert, Craig Suttman and Chad Conklin.

Before turning the page, I’d like to send a shout out to all the fathers and men who continue to show up and support their families and community. Thank you, Dad, for always being there for me with your love and support!

June 2024

PUBLISHER

Mark Andrea | mark.andrea@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Amanda Stout | amanda.stout@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Karen Andrea

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Rod Bluhm, Nina Weierman, Nan Paraskevopoulos

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Kelly Settle–Kelly Ann Photography, With Love Photography

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

Matching Kids for Success

Big Brothers Big Sisters Miami Valley encourages kids’ potential through

Leading Men

Meet

Dr. Michael Albert, Chief of Pediatric Orthopedics at Dayton Children’s Hospital, Craig Suttman, Principal of Career Tech Education at Centerville High School and Jesse Gaither, President of Heart of Centerville and Washington Twp. at Meridien in

Chef Chad Conklin

EXHIBITION

SPONSORS

PATRON SPONSOR

Lisa Hanauer & Sue Spiegel

Charles F. Kettering Foundation

ADDITIONAL SUPPORT SPONSOR

Dr. Bob Brandt, Jr.

Catherine Gordon & Felice Nudelman

Rainbow Elder Care of Greater Dayton

Todd Kepler & Dirk Kreutzer

Sara M. & Michelle Vance Waddell

ALLY SPONSOR

Bader+Simon

The Longfellow Commons Community of United Church Homes

Dr. Rachael Richter & Carol Weinert

Michael Roediger

TNT Unlimited Professional Painting

Emily, Kaytee & Parker Yantis-Houser

MEDIA SPONSOR

ThinkTV PBS

and violence. Speak with DAI staff for more information.

Left: Casey Riordan, Shark Girl as Boxer (detail), 2016, mixed media. From the top left, clockwise: V. L. Cox, Hands Off II, 2017, mixed media. Heather Jones, There’s No Plan (detail), 2019, sewn cotton. Chakaia Booker, Urban Butterfly, 2002, rubber tires, wood. Shelley Brenner Baird, 19th Amendment (detail), 2019, collaged signs.

city scene

company

High School Theatre's production

Mamma

2:

enjoys a performance by Donna and the Dynamos. 4: Donna Sheridan

Korpusik) sings "Money, Money, Money” in the courtyard. 5: Sky

Reynolds) gets carried away in "Lay All Your Love On Me.” 6: Tanya (Lila Hilliard) with Pepper (Grayson Zelik), both in the center with cast members. 7: The show ends with an audience sing-along of ABBA hits, including "Waterloo.”

by Barry Burtenshaw

1: The

of Centerville

of Mamma Mia!

Rosie Mulligan (Calla Boerger) clings to Bill Austin (Nyle Atiq). 3: The cast of

Mia!

(Sydney

(Grayson

Photography

8: The City of Centerville hosted an Arbor Day celebration at Iron Horse Park. 9: City officials delivered messages to volunteers during the event held April 23. 10: A young volunteer isn’t afraid to get her shovel dirty while helping to plant trees. 11: Centerville Mayor Brooks Compton and other city dignitaries put their shovels to work. 12: Families enjoy the eclipse viewing party at Forest Field Park. 13: Eclipse viewers at Oak Creek South point toward the event. 14: The moment of totality is captured over the Municipal Building in Centerville.

15: Dorothy Lane Market’s Garden Party Pastry Show was held April 18 at DLM Springboro. 16: DLM Pastry chefs used their creativity and expertise to present colorful new creations. 17: The annual event celebrates spring this year featuring pastries reminiscent of a garden party. 18: New trends and techniques are sought throughout the year and included in the pastry show. 19: Visitors were delighted with an array of options to sample and savor. 20: World-class DLM Patisserie was available to guests at every turn. 21: Friends enjoy a glass of wine and conversation while taking in the pastry show.

Photography by Tracy Doyle

business monthly

Centerville Cornerstone Music Series Joins Uptown Series

The City of Centerville and Centerville Arts Commission recently announced the premiere of the Cornerstone Music Series. The new series of concerts will join the popular Uptown Music Series in hosting live music performances throughout the summer and into fall. A variety of performers are scheduled to appear. Cornerstone Series performances will occur at the Cornerstone Park Pavilion near Costco. The Uptown Music Series will continue to be held on the patio near City Barbeque. CentervilleOhio.gov

DLM Sweeps State Bagging Competition

The Ohio Grocers Association Best Bagger Competition held in Albany, Ohio in early April saw Dorothy Lane Market (DLM) employees sweep the top three spots. Congratulations to Fengning Liu on his first-place win which earned him a third trip to the national competition. He finished second at the National Grocer Association Best Bagger Competition earlier this year. Congratulations are also due to Ashton Frye (second place) and Brooklyn Asher (third place). DorothyLane.com

Centerville Schools Receives Music Education Designation

Centerville City Schools has been recognized for the fifth straight year with the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation’s Best Communities for Music Education designation. The designation is awarded to school districts that demonstrate an outstanding commitment to providing music access and education to all students. To qualify, music educators in Centerville were required to submit detailed answers to questions about funding, participation, facilities, graduation requirements and other aspects of their music programs. Centerville.K12.OH.US

Photography by City of Centerville

Photography by Dorothy Lane Market

Photography by Centerville City Schools

MATCHING KIDS FOR SUCCESS

Big Brothers Big Sisters

Miami Valley Staff.

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS MIAMI VALLEY ENCOURAGES KIDS’ POTENTIAL THROUGH MENTORING PROGRAMS.

ARTICLE BY ROD BLUHM

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 fourcounty 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.

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Little Cullen with Big Chad.

Volunteers can mentor through community-based or school-based programs. Community-based mentors are asked to spend a minimum of six to eight hours monthly with their little brother or sister. School-based mentors meet their little brother or sister at their school. They may work on homework or enjoy playing a game.

BBBSMV Philanthropy Officer Chad Lovins has been with the nonprofit for four years. He has also been a Big Brother three times.

“My dad's involvement with kids brought me to Big Brothers Big Sisters. He always told me stories about working for Shawen Acres Orphanage and the impact he made on people’s lives,” recalls Chad.

Chad remains in touch with his first Little. He and Reggie were matched for 10 years. BBBSMV requires a one-year commitment when a match is made with the average mentorship lasting 31 months.

“Reggie taught me a lot. I think he prepared me for being a parent,” shares Chad.

Little at Wright State basketball activity.

“REGGIE TAUGHT ME A LOT. I THINK HE PREPARED ME FOR BEING A PARENT.” —CHAD LOVINS

Chad and his family were delighted to return to their hometown of Centerville after several moves. The job at BBBSMV was the icing on the cake and led to his third match. He and Cullen have been paired for more than three years. They enjoy various activities together, including soccer, basketball and football.

Cullen is just one example of a Little who has blossomed with his mentor. The growth Chad has witnessed in Cullen has been substantial. Chad says, “His manners in public have improved. He orders his own food. He’s on the honor roll at school. He also wants to get other kids involved when we play at a park now.”

BBBSMV has 35 Centerville-based matches involving either a Big or a Little. Predictably, the effects of COVID hurt involvement in mentorship programs. The goal is to get back to serving 500 or more kids annually.

The benefits for Littles are tremendous with 85% improving their academic performance in 2023. There was also a 90% improvement in depressive symptoms and 94% reported making better decisions.

BBBSMV has an urgent need for Big Brothers. There is a waiting list for Littles who need to be matched. Women are also encouraged to apply as Big Sisters. The process is relatively easy and can be started

by contacting an enrollment specialist at BBBSMV. Bigs must pass a background check and complete trauma-informed care training. Matches are assisted through open communication with the BBBSMV support staff.

Support for BBBSMV can also be provided by attending or donating to annual events. A Back to School Bash is held each August. About 200 families receive backpacks filled with supplies for the school year. The Bright Nights event will be held August 8, and Fore! Big Futures is scheduled for November 8.

Monetary donations can be made on a one-time or recurring basis through the BBBSMV website. Donations and fundraisers help to cover the cost of matching Bigs with Littles. Each local match costs about $2000, which is $800 less than the average cost per match nationally.

Corporate sponsorships are also appreciated with some sponsors covering a specified number of matches annually.

Mentoring relationships have a lasting effect on the lives of youths and their adult mentors. Visit the Big Brothers Big Sisters Miami Valley website for more information on how you can help support a child’s future by volunteering, donating and participating in upcoming events.

BBBSMiamiValley.org

Big and Little at the Summer Bash.

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

Orthopedics at Dayton Children’s Hospital, demonstrates unwavering compassion and pioneering innovation. Craig Suttman, Principal of Career Tech Education at Centerville High School, champions career-focused education and guides students to make informed decisions about their career paths.

Jesse Gaither

President of Heart of Centerville and Washington Twp

Jesse Gaither, President of Heart of Centerville and Washington Twp. (HoCWT) and owner of Minuteman Press, epitomizes the spirit of community engagement and entrepreneurship.

A collaborator with a true understanding of teamwork, Jesse gives credit to the many people and organizations who have come together to orchestrate community events that HoCWT plans annually. “Without the faith and support of Centerville City Council and staff, we would not have been able to manage the dramatic growth of our signature events. Merchant Market, the Parties in the Park, Fall Fest and the Uptown Holiday Walk attracted more than 54,000 attendees in 2023,” explains Jesse. “It takes dozens of members to pull these events together. This is what I love most about the Heart – many hands make light work in helping local businesses succeed.”

Jesse’s passion for the community and his role as President of Heart of Centerville and Washington Twp. is inspiring. “There’s no telling what the Heart is capable of in the years to come, but I do know one thing for sure, whatever initiative we launch will be filled with love for this community and the businesses that make it thrive,” Jesse expresses.

As the Chief of Pediatric Orthopedics at Dayton Children’s Hospital, Dr. Michael Albert’s influence extends far beyond the operating room, leaving an indelible mark on the field of pediatric care. Known for his caring demeanor and thorough approach, Dr. Albert’s impact is felt in every interaction. “No matter how big or small the problem or diagnosis is, I try to treat every patient as if they were a family member,” shares Dr. Albert. “I also like to approach children and their families as I want my family members to be approached. I believe humor and a positive outlook are important.”

Dr. Michael Albert

Chief of Pediatric Orthopedics at Dayton Children's Hospital

Dr. Albert is passionate about innovation within his field. Collaborating with medical device companies to improve care for scoliosis patients, his leadership has led to adopting advanced techniques like ApiFix, offering patients better outcomes with minimally invasive procedures. “I have had the pleasure to interact with numerous engineers and companies to help develop systems which aid in the correction of spinal deformity cases and improve our outcomes,” Dr. Albert remarks.

Looking ahead, Dr. Albert remains committed to advancing pediatric orthopedics at Dayton Children’s. “I am proud to be part of a pediatric orthopedic program that is top-rated in the United States and has a diverse group of healthcare professionals who are accomplishing our goals. We plan on continuing to make Dayton Children’s Orthopedics a destination for families,” shares Dr. Albert.

Craig Suttman

Centerville Career Tech Education Principal

Craig Suttman, Principal of Career Tech Education (CTE) at Centerville High School is guiding future generations to make informed decisions about their posthigh school career paths. Like many people, Craig knows firsthand the experience of starting college with one career goal in mind, only to change direction later on. “I originally went to the University of Dayton to pursue a degree in engineering. After graduating, I knew I did not want to be an engineer. So, I immediately went to Wright State for graduate school to pursue a career in education,” shares Craig. CTE programs stress mathematics, science, communication and technology. These programs also emphasize teamwork, hands-on learning, work-site experiences, critical thinking and problem solving. “Career-focused programs are so valuable to our students. According to the U.S. Department of Education, about one-third of students enrolled in bachelor’s degree programs change majors at least once. A key reason for this is a lack of hands-on career exploration opportunities during high school,” says Craig.

Under his leadership, Centerville's CTE program has flourished, with close to 50 students qualifying for national championships across their 12 programs. Recently their Robotics and Culinary Arts teams clinched prestigious national awards. “It all starts with the teachers and the expectations they set with their students. The teachers work extremely hard to ensure students perform at their highest level,” shares Craig.

PUTTING hope ON THE TABLE

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 establishment. He worked as executive chef at Rosaria’s in Perrysburg, but he found that teaching young people was where he wanted to be in this season of life.

Looking back, Chef Chad realized he had been teaching all along. He tutored 60% of his class during his first year at Secchia and became a teaching assistant at Johnson & Wales.

“I could break the information down in ways they could understand,” explains Chef Chad.

Upon arriving at Marshall, Chef Chad wanted to revolutionize his students’ experience. Young people learn the art of cooking and valuable life skills such as teamwork, discipline and perseverance. While not all his students want to become chefs, many do.

“I’ve seen a lot of students who I helped go on to open their own bakeries and restaurants. It’s the greatest feeling on earth,” he says.

CHEF CHAD CONKLIN IS TEACHING THE NEXT GENERATION AND MAKING DESSERT MORE BEAUTIFUL FOR EVERYONE.

“ I’ve seen a lot of students who I helped go on to open their own bakeries and restaurants. It’s the greatest feeling on earth.”

Chef Chad’s culinary program has also become a beacon of hope in the community. His classroom supports a pantry for hungry students and he provides his students with opportunities to give back by cooking community dinners. It’s always a three-course meal, with everything made from scratch.

“In-kind donations are always welcome,” explains Chef Chad. “Monetary donations go through the school.”

In recognition of his outstanding work, Chef Chad was invited to compete in The Food Network Halloween Baking Championship in 2023. Though the experience was exciting, Chef Chad is not eager to be back on TV. He is more interested in taking his time to create something beautiful and delicious.

Before teaching, Chef Chad was a consultant helping restaurants to revamp their desserts. His desserts are artistic creations, which he works to innovate consistently through his business, Attica. For example, instead of cutting his cheesecake into a wedge with a drizzle on top, he makes his Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake a whimsical pumpkin shape.

“Dessert is your last chance to make an impression,” he shares.

As Chef Chad empowers the next generation of chefs, his work reminds us that greatness can be found everywhere. In the bustling halls of an Ohio high school, a local culinary genius is shaping the future one delicious meal at a time.`

BITTERSWEET CHOCOLATE MOUSSE

provided by Chef Chad Conklin

ingredients:

• 1 lb 7.5 oz chocolate (58-72%)

• 1 qt heavy cream

• 15 egg yolks

• 9.9 oz granulated sugar

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

directions:

1. Melt the chocolate over a water bath in a large bowl, big enough to accommodate the entire recipe. Keep very warm.

2. Whip the cream to soft peaks and set aside.

3. Make the pâte à bombe by combining the egg yolks, salt and sugar in a bowl. Heat and whisk over the same water bath used to melt the chocolate. Whisk constantly until the sugar is dissolved and the egg yolks have tripled in volume and turned very pale yellow (about 180°). Be careful not to cook the eggs or you’ll end up with scrambled eggs.

4. Fold the whipped cream into the very warm chocolate quickly and deliberately.

5. Fold the pâte à bombe into the chocolate/cream mixture.

6. Place into ramekins and refrigerate for two hours, then top with whipped cream or berries.

JUNE 9TH

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

Summer Concert Series: Twist on Taylor

St. Leonard | 7:00 PM

The Centerville Summer Concert Series begins June 9 with Twist on Taylor. This tribute to Taylor Swift features renditions of a wide variety of songs from her country and pop collections. This free family event begins at 7 p.m. Bring chairs or a blanket and enjoy the show! CentervilleOhio.gov

JUNE 11TH - 16TH

Mamma Mia!

Schuster Center | 7:30 PM

A daughter’s curiosity turns her wedding day into a memorable adventure with her mom and three possible fathers. Mamma Mia! is set in Greece and is told through the hit music of ABBA. This feel-good musical has delighted audiences for 25 years. Performances run June 11-16. For tickets and showtimes go to DaytonLive.org

JUNE 14TH

Party in the Park

St. Leonard | 5:30 PM

Simply Queen returns to Centerville to kick off the Party in the Park season! Thrill to the music of Queen and check out local crafts in the vendor village featuring more than 30 sellers. Savor food and beverages from food trucks and vendors. The party begins June 14 at 5:30 p.m. at St. Leonard. CentervilleOhio.gov

JUNE 15TH

Celtic Fest Ohio 2024

Renaissance Park, Waynesville | 11:00 AM

The Celtic Fest returns in 2024. This celebration of Celtic music, food, and drink offers activities alongside bountiful entertainment. See a border collie show, hear Miami Valley Pipes and Drums and attend a guitar workshop. Food and drink will be available from various eateries, pubs and breweries. For a schedule of events and tickets visit CelticFestOhio.com.

JUNE 17TH School House Pop!

Asahel Wright Museum | 7:00 PM

Centerville-Washington History presents School House Pop! on the lawn June 17 at 7 p.m. Tour open museums during this family fun event and enjoy live music by Tommy Lees. There will also be games, snacks and prizes for kids. The event is free with upcoming dates throughout the summer. For more information go to CentervilleWashingtonHistory.org.

JUNE 22ND & 23RD Rail Fest

Carillon Historical Park | 9:30 AM

The Carillon Park Rail and Steam Society presents a fun event for the entire family on June 22 and 23. See live steam engines and model train displays or take a free miniature train ride. Plus check out the park's rail-themed artifacts. Train merchandise will be available from rail vendors. For tickets and a complete schedule visit DaytonHistory.org

USDA Prime Steak

Let summer sizzle with a thick-cut USDA Prime Steak on the grill! This top grade boasts intrinsic marbling that results in

USING THESE TIPS YOU CAN MAKE A DELICIOUS HOMEMADE BARBECUE SAUCE.

A good barbecue sauce is comprised of a variety of the same six components. The key is to discover what style you enjoy most, and don’t be afraid to experiment. Oh, and taste often during the preparation process to adjust if so desired.

SOMETHING SWEET

This can be honey, cola, molasses, preserves, brown sugar, or syrup. This caramelizes as you cook, bringing those smoky, sugary flavors.

SOMETHING TANGY

Think vinegar, mustard, or citrus. This is what brings the zing to your sauce.

SOMETHING SPICY

This provides your heat: a hot sauce is a great choice. A good rule of thumb is to use about 1/2 teaspoon for every cup of sauce you’re making.

SOMETHING LIQUID

It can be beer, water, chicken stock, soda, or wine. Start with about 1/2 a cup and see what happens.

SOMETHING TOMATO

You’ll most likely use ketchup, but you can also use tomato paste.

THE SPICE COMBINATION

This can depend on your liking and taste and can include anything from onion powder to garlic powder to chili powder to allspice to cayenne pepper to mustard powder to liquid smoke to cumin to Worcestershire sauce and more. Start with a teaspoon of salt, and keep tasting as you experiment with your desired spices.

HOMEMADE

BBQ SAUCE

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups ketchup

• 1 cup water

• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar

• 5 tablespoons brown sugar

• 5 tablespoons sugar

• 1/2 tablespoon  black pepper

• 1/2 tablespoon onion powder

• 1/2 tablespoon ground mustard

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

DIRECTIONS

In a medium saucepan, combine all ingredients. Bring mixture to a boil, reduce heat to simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring frequently, for 1 hour 15 minutes.

Recipe and information courtesy of Pat Neely and Gina Neely.