don’t let summer sickness stop summer fun
• Rashes
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Visit Kids Express Centerville for: quick care for sick kids open 7 days a week located in Sugarcreek Plaza
• Sunburn
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Heart, Hard Work & Hometown Pride
June offers the perfect opportunity to celebrate the men who make our community stronger, whether they’re leading by example, stepping up in times of need or simply lending a hand where it’s most needed. This issue is dedicated to their efforts— big and small—that leave lasting impacts.
We start with BOGG Ministries, where founders Jason Johnston, Jason Barton and their team have grown a grassroots mission into a regional food min istry that now provides a million pounds of food annually. Their commitment to meeting families where they are with food, friendship and dignity continues to have a profound impact.
Creativity is also thriving thanks to Terry O’Brien, a mainstay of Centerville’s arts scene. Through his work at Trilevel Productions, Terry has dedicated decades to nurturing young musicians and helping them find their voice. His passion for music and production keeps Centerville’s creative pulse strong and its next generation of artists inspired.
Community service is a cornerstone of Centerville and Washington Township’s success, and Jason Riley, Wayne Davis and Mark Metzger are among the many local leaders who embody that spirit. Each of these men brings unique skills and a shared commitment to making our community more connected, inclusive and thriving.
And with Father’s Day on the horizon, we round things out with a curated local gift guide. Whether you’re shopping for premium beard care, fine cigars, smallbatch bourbon or professional whitening, our picks make it easy to celebrate the men you appreciate, while keeping your dollars local.
This month’s stories highlight the strength and heart of our region’s men. We hope you enjoy celebrating them as much as we do.
MARK ANDREA, PUBLISHER @CENTERVILLELIFESTYLE
June 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
Amanda Stout, Jonathan Stout, Nina Weierman, Marie Kriedman
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Austin + Shilo Creative
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
In
and Washington Township, Mark Metzger, Wayne Davis and Jason Riley
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.
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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.
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Centerville High School Theatre presented Disney's The Little Mermaid, April 25-26 and May 2-3. 2: Audiences enjoyed Disney favorites like “Part of Your World,” sung here by Ariel (Sophie Caton). 3: The Junior League of Dayton’s 2nd Annual Casino Night was held at NCR Country Club. 4: Guests enjoyed derby-themed casino games, a cash bar and silent auction items supporting JLD’s mission. 5: Proceeds from Casino Night benefit JLD’s focus on advancing third grade literacy in Greater Dayton. 6: Centerville Spring Expo, held at Sinclair Centerville, featured home and garden seminars and over two dozen local vendors. 7: Jeremy Espinoza (Powersoft LLC), Abbey Matuszak (GFC Concrete Coatings) and Rachael Fahncke (Dayton Designer Closets) at the Centerville Spring Expo.
THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF DAYTON
GISEL CAMPBELL
GISEL CAMPBELL
THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF DAYTON
THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF DAYTON
SPALDING BEN SPALDING
8: Kirk Herbstreit headlined Out of the Pocket, supporting the move and expansion of Creativity Commons. 9: Fellow Centerville alum Ryan Hawk interviewed Kirk at The Golf Club at Yankee Trace. 10: A dedicated Friends of WCPL member, Kara Ware, created Out of the Pocket to support the expansion. 11: Top event sponsors received an autographed book and a photo op with Kirk Herbstreit. 12: The Spring Book Sale at Woodbourne Library was held April 24-26. 13: Hosted by the Friends of WCPL, the sale offered hundreds of books, movies and music. 14: Proceeds support library programs like Family Film Nights, a canine reading mentorship and summer reading.
Photography by Megan Suttles
15: Dorothy Lane Market’s Pastry Show on April 10 served up Parisian-inspired treats by DLM chefs. 16: Towering displays and platters showcased over 20 delicate pastries for guests to sample and enjoy. 17: Seasonal pastries debuted in delicious mini bites. 18: Guests sampled croissants, organic baguettes and French-inspired Miche bread, all freshly baked in house. 19: Pastry Chef Amy Brown made crêpes fresh to order. 20: Art and history came together on April 12 at the Uptown Art Affair . 21: Visitors explored Centerville’s history and met local artists during the event at Asahel Wright House.
AMY TRUETT-REEVES
business monthly
Centerville-Washington Foundation Honors Dale Berry at The Founders Annual Meeting
The Centerville-Washington Foundation honored retired teacher, real estate agent and former Washington Township trustee, Dale Berry, at The Founders 27th Annual Meeting. Dale has volunteered with the Rotary Club of Centerville, Dayton Art Institute, American Cancer Society, Centerville-Washington History, Friends of the Washington-Centerville Public Library, Dayton Area Board of Realtors® and others. “Dale is a dedicated community volunteer, father and friend who has touched many lives,” shares Debe Dockins, president of the Centerville-Washington Foundation. CentervilleWashingtonFoundation.com
City of Centerville Holds Grand Reopening for Ohio Card Exchange
The City of Centerville recently held a grand reopening for Ohio Card Exchange, which moved to a space three times its previous size at Cross Pointe Center. Ohio Card Exchange is a sports cards and collectibles shop, owned and operated by Dave Carlson. They carry Pokémon cards, trading card games and cards from every sport. Monthly card trading events for kids and adults allow collectors to trade and build their collections and relationships. CentervilleOhio.gov; OhioCardExchange.com
Annual Tom Frazier Memorial Tee Off for Youth Classic
The annual Tom Frazier Memorial Tee Off for Youth Classic will be held July 14 at Sycamore Creek Country Club in Springboro. Hosted by the Centerville Noon Optimist Club, the golf outing raises funds for Dayton Children’s Hospital Hematology/Oncology Department and youth programs throughout the year. More than $200,000 has been donated to Dayton Children’s in the past fifteen years. For more information on sponsoring, call 937.221.6720 or visit CentervilleNoonOptimist.com.
Photography by Carol Kennard
Photography by City of Centerville
Photography by Centerville Noon Optimist Club
ARTICLE BY MARIE KRIEDMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
BOGG MINISTRIES BRINGS THE CHURCH INTO THE WORLD FOR FAMILIES FACING CHALLENGING TIMES.
LOVE PEOPLE. FEED PEOPLE.
Because of God’s Grace (BOGG) Ministries is a local nonprofit organization with the goals of bringing “the church out into the world, and not to be restricted to a building.” By making these efforts they hope to express
“Families are in tight situations or concerned about where the world is going. That has brought some people to our events,” he shares. “With grocery items costing more, we hope families will come and get what they need.”
“WE COULDN’T KNOW THAT INFORMATION AND DO NOTHING ABOUT IT.”
God’s love for those who are hurting. Jason Barton and Jason Johnston created the Mobile Meals program that operates through BOGG Ministries to help bring these goals to life.
The two Jasons founded BOGG Ministries in 2010 in Miamisburg. Jason J., a Centerville resident, sat down to tell us about their programs.
Jason J. recalls that the genesis of their food ministry was learning that Dayton was in the top 10 hungriest cities in 2010.
“We couldn’t know that information and do nothing about it,” he explains. “Jason Barton had a heart for helping people with food support and I had a heart to help the Dayton community. Together, we started by assisting four families.”
The Mobile Meals program operates at a variety of locations throughout the Dayton area. Today, Mobile Meals serves up to 300 families each week. Jason J. says he has seen the community need grow each year.
The program aims to provide 50-80 pounds of free food per family, about 10,000 pounds total, at each event. Jason J. estimates that BOGG gives away about a million pounds of food each year. He notes that a $1 donation will provide two meals. The organization's goal is to provide enough meals for a family of three for a three-to-five-day period, but anyone and any family size is welcome.
Visitors to their events are not considered clients–they’re considered friends.
“Through this program, we have been able to be friends and support those in a rough season of life,” he adds.
To encourage a community connection, the Mobile Meals events include a block party celebration at each location from April through October. Friends will receive a hot meal and food to take home. The majority of events are open to the public, and events are held in Kettering, Moraine, Dayton, Centerville, West Carrollton and Xenia.
“BOGG
IS A DAYTON STORY WITH A SIMPLE MISSION. LOVE PEOPLE. FEED PEOPLE.”
BOGG Ministries is also mindful that needs are not limited to food and they emphasize physical, social and emotional needs as well. Activities for children are available at each event, in addition to referrals for community services, clothing and support groups. New friends or anyone in need are welcome to attend.
Each event requires at least one staff member and 15-25 volunteers. More volunteers are always needed and volunteer opportunities are available Mondays through Thursdays.
“BOGG is a Dayton story with a simple mission,” Jason J. shares. “Love people. Feed people. Our goal is to stay in our lane and do what we do best.”
For more information, to donate or volunteer, email wecare@thebogg.org or visit TheBogg.org.
BY
BY AUSTIN
Terry O'Brien’s deep community ties and production skills help young musicians stand out.
A HISTORY OF LOCAL MUSIC
Lifelong Centerville resident Terry O'Brien began working as a professional musician in 1976. At the early age of 16, he co-wrote the theme song for his high school senior prom. After initial experiences with writing, his interest quickly shifted to recording.
“I started playing with recording technology in my early 20s and began recording demos of original songs to sell to publishers, which did not work,” Terry laughs.
In his 30s, his focus turned to the impact and techniques of production.
“I became fascinated with music production because the person that has the most impact on a song is not the artist, it’s the producer,” Terry explains. “I started studying everything that I could about music production and sound engineering.”
Since then, Terry has kept very busy, founding Trilevel Productions and helping young musicians develop their sound. Additionally, he produces a steady stream of podcasts, TV and social media commercials and has written two musicals. As a two-term Centerville Arts Commission member, an entertainment chair of Americana Fest and a producer of the weekly video magazine Centerville in 60, Terry has his finger on the pulse of the Centerville community and art scene and is ready to help younger generations build upon its rich foundation.
IN ADDITION TO BEING A CELEBRATED CENTERVILLE HISTORIAN, YOU'RE ALSO AN AWARD-WINNING MUSIC COMPOSER AND VIDEO PRODUCER. WHAT LED YOU TO MUSIC PRODUCTION AND WHAT DRAWS YOU TO WORKING WITH ARTISTS BETWEEN THE AGES OF 16-23?
The music producer is the one person who can make the song great or not great! The reason I like working with younger musicians is that they have a window between 14-21 to develop their talent and work toward something bigger. After the age of 24, it's very hard to get noticed. We look for kids who live to create music, have great talent, something unique to say and are hard working.
CAN YOU SPEAK TO THE IMPORTANT ROLE THE ARTS PLAY IN THE CENTERVILLE COMMUNITY?
Centerville is starting to become noticed for the different music events and venues that we offer, thanks to the Centerville Arts Commission, Kate Bostdorff, Drew Simon and Jim Collins. Having a strong music and arts culture in the area helps set a positive tone for the community.
CONTINUED >
WITH MANY PEOPLE IN YOUR INDUSTRY MOVING TO FLASHY CITIES LIKE NASHVILLE, CHICAGO OR LOS ANGELES, WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO STICK WITH CENTERVILLE AS YOUR BASE? WHAT ADVANTAGES DO YOU THINK IT HAS?
Today, a young person with simple recording technology can create a song that sounds just as good as big studios in big cities and at a much lower cost. The problem with this is that the internet is overcrowded with new songs. Trying to break through is almost impossible unless you can stand out.
“THE TALENT IN DAYTON IS JUST AS GOOD AS NEW YORK, L.A. OR NASHVILLE. THE KEY IS FINDING WAYS TO STAND OUT.”
The talent in Dayton is just as good as New York, L.A. or Nashville. The key is finding ways to stand out.
YOUR SERVICES AT TRILEVEL ARE MULTIFACETED, FROM SONGWRITING TO PRODUCTION, ENGINEERING TO DISTRIBUTION AND EVEN MUSIC VIDEO PRODUCTION. IS THERE A CERTAIN PART OF THIS BUSINESS THAT YOU ENJOY THE MOST?
Trilevel has always had a focus on music creation and production. However, in the past, when I had an artist with a good song, they needed a video to promote it, so I started producing music videos. Those projects led to commercials, special video productions, etc. Today, my work week is split into podcast production, songwriting, music production and video projects.
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR YOUNG MUSICIANS TRYING TO BREAK INTO THE INDUSTRY?
It's a very hard industry to pursue, and it takes much more than talent. It takes so much hard work and dedication to the craft. You have to be a self-promoter, develop a thick skin and don’t let people bum you out. Every song you write will be better than the last, so keep moving forward.
for the greater good
THREE CENTERVILLE LEADERS ARE HELPING SHAPE A STRONGER COMMUNITY THROUGH THEIR COMMITMENT TO SERVICE.
ARTICLE BY NINA WEIERMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AUSTIN + SHILO CREATIVE
Great communities don’t just happen, they’re shaped by the people who care deeply and lead with purpose.
In Centerville and Washington Township, Jason Riley, Wayne Davis and Mark Metzger are three such leaders, each serving in unique roles but united by a shared commitment to stewardship and public service.
Retired U.S. Army Colonel Jason Riley lends his leadership to local organizations that promote accessibility, inclusion and equity. As Centerville’s City Manager, Wayne Davis focuses on building strong relationships and delivering services that enhance the
quality of life for all. Mark Metzger, recreation director for Washington Township, brings people together through events, programs and partnerships that foster community connection.
Though their professional backgrounds differ from military to municipal to recreation, each has chosen a path rooted in service. Whether creating inclusive public spaces, supporting local traditions or guiding the city’s strategic vision, they are helping to shape a thriving, welcoming community, one thoughtful decision at a time.
Ret. Col. Jason Riley
Chair, Centerville-Washington Diversity Council
For Jason Riley, serving others is a guiding principle shaped during his 25-year career in uniform. A retired U.S. Army Colonel, he served with the 82nd Airborne Division, U.S. Army Special Operations and as Commander of the U.S. Army NATO Brigade in Germany. Now a Centerville resident, he is the chair of the CentervilleWashington Diversity Council and a past member of the Centerville-Washington Park District Board of Commissioners.
Jason began volunteering with the park district shortly after moving to the area, driven by a strong desire to give back. Today, he focuses on ensuring that parks are accessible and welcoming to all. “Whether it’s adding multi-purpose paths, accessible equipment or a universal changing table, the park district strives to make parks available and inclusive for everyone,” he says.
All of Jason’s volunteer efforts reflect his commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility. He is involved with organizations such as The Access Center for Independent Living, Centerville-Washington Diversity Council and several veterans associations. “I try my best to help connect these groups so we can speak and advocate with a much louder voice,” he explains.
Jason is currently working to develop a new advocacy group focused on active transportation and mobility. Formed in partnership with Bike Centerville and the Diversity Council, the group promotes safer, more accessible routes for walking, biking and wheeling through the community. Their vision includes bike lanes, multi-use paths and consistently clear sidewalks.
“To me, service is empathy combined with action,” says Jason. And with every effort, Jason continues to turn that belief into a meaningful and lasting impact.
CONTINUED >
MARCH 15–JUNE 8, 2025
Image Above: : Jamie Wyeth (b. 1946) Great White Shark (detail), 2011, Charcoal, oil, and watercolor on toned paper board 24 x 18 in. Private collection.
This exhibition is organized by Brandywine Museum of Art.
Centerville’s City Manager, Wayne Davis, views civic leadership as more than managing a city; it’s about serving the people and committing to the greater good. “In local government, we are in the business of service, and that means building strong relationships with our residents, business owners, developers and community partners,” explains Wayne.
Wayne began his career working for the Comptroller of the Air Force at the Pentagon, later holding various roles in local governments before becoming city manager for the City of Centerville in 2017. Under his leadership, Centerville has implemented its second strategic plan, focusing on delivering
Wayne Davis
Centerville City Manager
innovative and value-driven services.
“Add to that our ideal location, top-tier amenities, engaged partners and citizens, the clean, well-cared-for environment, and it is easy to see why Centerville stands out,” Wayne says.
In addition to his substantial role as city manager, Wayne enjoys spending time with his friends and family, including his six grandchildren. You might spot him taking in a Centerville Elks sporting event, enjoying a summer concert at Stubbs Park, playing any of the 27 holes at The Golf Club at Yankee Trace, or walking his beloved dog, Big Mo, on one of the many Centerville-Washington Park District trails. Wayne enjoys staying connected to the community that he serves.
For those who may be interested in a career in public service, Wayne has this advice to share: “Pursue it for the right reasons. Civic leadership is a noble calling rooted in service, not self-interest. It requires resilience, humility, vulnerability and a genuine commitment to the greater good. It’s not always easy, but the rewards are immense, especially when you see the impact our work has on helping people live better, more connected lives in their community.”
Mark Metzger
Washington Township Recreation/RecPlex Director; President, Americana Festival Committee
A degree in theater might seem like a surprising start to a career in recreation, but for Mark Metzger it was the perfect foundation. Now the recreation director for Washington Township and the Washington Township RecPlex, Mark began his career after earning a BFA in Directing and Stage Management and directing and producing children’s theater, an experience that sparked his interest in public service and community programming.
Mark took a contracted job to direct a children’s show at the newly renovated Town Hall Theatre. From there, he was offered a position to manage the century-old building and develop youth programming. “I'm most proud of the nearly two decades I spent building the children’s theatre programs at Town Hall Theatre. I've followed many of the performers over the years. Some went into theater, others became lawyers, leaders and professors, all using the tools they gained through live performance,” shares Mark.
Today, Mark’s role encompasses supervising all recreation programming for Washington Township and leading RecPlex improvements. Mark championed the first strategic plan and community needs assessment in 2019, which
was followed by the completion of the Countryside Park Master Plan in 2023. “These efforts spurred strategic investment in our campus, including park and pond improvements as well as the upcoming Gateway Plaza, which will create a central gathering space and provide new and improved access to the park,” explains Mark.
Mark’s passion for service to his community was shaped by his mentor and the founder of the Americana Festival, Jim Reppert. “He said we all owe something back to the place we live...don’t assume someone else will do it. Assume the opposite and then do what you can to help.”
gifts for guys
Treat the special men in your life and support local businesses with our helpful guide.
ARTICLE BY AMANDA STOUT | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
With Father’s Day right around the corner, we looked to local businesses for ideas and inspiration for treating guys to unique gifts and experiences, sure to enhance their day-to-day lives or offer moments to relax and unwind. Not only will your favorite gentlemen enjoy these thoughtful gifts for Father’s Day, birthdays, anniversaries, graduations and more, but you’ll be supporting local businesses and your community.
Whiskermen
Ultimate Beard Care Starter Package
Whiskermen is an Ohio-based, disabled veteran-owned small business specializing in handcrafted beard care products using high-quality, U.S.-sourced ingredients. The Ultimate Beard Care Starter Package is the perfect gift for any bearded gentleman and includes your choice of: Premium Beard Oil, Luxurious Beard Butter, Refreshing Beer Beard Soap and a Handcrafted Wood Comb.
Heidi Sprowls D.D.S.: The Centerville Dentist
Venus White Pro Whitening Kit
Get your guy’s smile gleaming with an at-home professional teeth whitening kit with custom trays and approximately a month’s supply of whitening solution. It’s a $300 value, but your price through Heidi Sprowls, D.D.S., is just $180. Dr. Sprowls and her team have provided dental services for over 20 years, so his smile is in good hands!
THECENTERVILLEDENTIST.COM
PRICE: $180
PRICE: $50
Help your guy lead with a bright, refreshed smile with professional solutions from Centerville dentist, Heidi Sprowls. Ohio-based, veteran-owned Whiskermen beard products can elevate any beard grooming routine, making their handcrafted solutions a thoughtful gift for any occasion. Or give him an experience he won’t soon forget: explore the high-end cigar offerings of Uptown Centerville’s Beckel’s
Humidor. If your dude is a whiskey connoisseur, why not introduce him to local small-batch bourbon brand Freedom Whiskey Co. It’s delicious served neat, over ice, with a splash of water or as part of his favorite cocktail.
We hope you’ll consider the amazing impact you can have by shopping local for Father’s Day and all your upcoming special occasions!
Fine Cigars
Beckel’s Humidor is a high-end cigar lounge and private club located in Uptown Centerville. They only deal in the finest cigars in the world. Once visitors have selected and purchased their favorite smoke, everything else is complimentary. Come in for the first time and mention you read about Beckel’s in Centerville Lifestyle to enjoy 20% off of all of your purchases that day.
Founded in Springboro by retired Marine Corps veteran Zach Hollingsworth, Freedom Whiskey Co. is dedicated to great-tasting bourbon and giving back to the veteran community. Their small batch bourbon includes a heartfelt toast on the side of each bottle and features a dog tag displaying the batch number, bottling date and a unique message. The delicious flavor profile begins with vanilla and oak, finishing with a subtle bite.
Beckel’s Humidor
JUNE 1ST
Centerville Summer Concert Series
Stubbs Park | 7:00 PM
Centerville’s Summer Concert Series returns to the newly renovated Stubbs Park Sunday evenings starting June 1. Residents and visitors can enjoy free, family-friendly live music all summer long. Concerts begin at 7 p.m. See the full lineup at CentervilleOhio.gov
JUNE 6TH
Centerville Uptown and Cornerstone Music Series
Cornerstone Park & Franklin and Main Street | 6:30 PM
Centerville has no shortage of live music to enjoy this summer with the return of the Uptown and Cornerstone Music Series, featuring performances on select Friday and Saturday nights from June 6 through August 29. Listen to talented local bands at Cornerstone Park or in Uptown Centerville, while enjoying refreshments in a welcoming atmosphere. CentervilleOhio.gov
JUNE 7TH
Centerville Noon Optimist Fishing Derby
Washington Township RecPlex | 8:00 AM
Reel in the fun at the Centerville Noon Optimist annual Fishing Derby on June 7 at the Washington Twp. RecPlex! Kids ages 3-15 can enjoy free fishing, worms, lunch, prizes and a Passport to Fishing workshop. Loaner rods are available. Registration begins at 8 a.m. and fishing starts at 9 a.m. CentervilleNoonOptimist.com
JUNE 7TH
WCPL Fixit Clinic
Woodbourne Library | 1:00 PM
Bring your broken computers, appliances, bicycles, sewing machines and more to the Woodbourne Library for their Fixit Clinic, an all-ages do-it-together (D.I.T.) repair event. Experts will help you disassemble and troubleshoot your item, and with luck you will leave with it working again. Please no microwaves, tape players, heaters or gas-powered engines. The event takes place from 1-4 p.m. WCLibrary.info
Stop letting joint pain prevent you from missing out of your activities. QC Kinetix can help relieve joint pain for years.
e Power Of Friendship At Bethany Village
Meet Penny and Pam, neighbors at Bethany Village who quickly became close friends. Whether traveling or taking on new adventures together, they encourage one another through the joys and challenges they face in this stage of life. To them, having a friend by their side makes every moment feel more full, every challenge easier, and every day more fun.
