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.
Tom
A Touch of Style
Embracing and enhancing style in our homes and personal lives is the focus of this month's issue. Style reflects who we are and how we engage with the world around us. Whether through the clothes we wear, the spaces we live in, or the events we cherish, style tells a story of individuality and taste.
We’re thrilled to highlight local efforts to make a difference like Threads of Miami Valley. Discover how this nonprofit has provided free clothing to those in need for over a decade, showing how compassion and style can go hand in hand.
As fall approaches, it’s time to celebrate with a touch of tradition. Get ready for Oktoberfest at the Dayton Art Institute (DAI), a beloved annual event that combines festive spirit with stylish flair, supporting DAI’s important work in our community. Prost!
Check out The Greene’s newest furniture and home decor store to elevate your home with distinctive pieces. Willow Rust offers custom handcrafted furniture, distinctive artwork by Mike Elsass and home decor, perfect for adding unique and personal style to your space.
Lastly, as the season changes, so does our wardrobe. Local style expert Amanda Whitt proves that style and sustainability can beautifully coexist as she shares trends and tips on incorporating thrifting into your fall updates.
We hope the Style issue of Centerville Lifestyl e inspires you to explore and express your style in creative and exciting ways.
MARK ANDREA, PUBLISHER
September 2024
PUBLISHER
Mark Andrea | mark.andrea@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Amanda Stout | amanda.stout@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Karen Andrea
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Amanda Stout, Nan Paraskevopoulos, Nina Weierman, Rod Bluhm
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Kelly Settle–Kelly Ann Photography, Austin + Shilo Creative, Amanda Stout
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
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
inside the issue
Threads
Oktoberfest,
Great Smiles START WITH US
Do you have missing, chipped, or broken teeth? Are you uncomfortable smiling in photos or in general conversation? You don’t have to feel ashamed. We can help you fix your dental issues and help you achieve a smile you’re proud of. We are happily accepting new patients. Our team is compassionate and caring. We are also very skilled in fixing your bite and crowding or spacing with Invisalign. We are offering a back to school special so that you can fix your smile with all-inclusive Invisalign for $3677. This includes a set of retainers! This back to school special is valid until September 30, 2024. Call us today at 937-434-1151.
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
1: Young guests examine a model train display at Carillon Historical Park’s Rail Fest. 2: Visitors had the opportunity to ride the Carillon Park Railroad. 3: Rail Fest featured rail-themed artifact displays highlighting rail history. 4: Rail vendors offered train merchandise to collectors and other visitors. 5: The Golf Club at Yankee Trace debuted a new practice facility in June. 6: A 4,000-square-foot practice green and a comfort station are among the improvements. 7: Centerville City Council members joined contractors and staff for the ribbon cutting.
DAYTON HISTORY
DAYTON HISTORY
CITY OF CENTERVILLE
CITY OF CENTERVILLE
DAYTON HISTORY
DAYTON HISTORY
8: The Centerville and Washington Township Americana Festival was held on July 4. 9: A parade through the streets of Uptown Centerville showcased more than 120 units. 10: Bands, floats, walkers and vehicles of numerous types participated in the parade. 11: The Up and Running Americana 5K Run & Walk began at Centerville High School. 12: The 32nd annual Tee Off for Youth Tom Frazier Memorial was held at Sycamore Creek Country Club. 13: Proceeds benefited the Dayton Children’s Hospital and other youth-based programs. 14: Volunteers and sponsors, Greg Fay Insurance, First Financial Bank and Logan Master Appliance made it possible.
business monthly
Ghost Walk on Main Returns October 10
Take a haunted history walk through Uptown Centerville when Ghost Walk on Main returns on October 10. Historical stories, reenactments, a return to the cemetery and ghost stories will all be part of the walk. Groups will be staggered with tours lasting about two hours. Due to construction at Benham’s Grove, the Washington-Centerville Public Library will announce an updated starting point and additional information for ticket holders before the event. Tickets sell extremely fast and are available at WCLibrary.info
Ohio Living Bethany Hospice Expands Access
Ohio Living Bethany Hospice, a joint venture between Bethany Village and Ohio Living Home Health & Hospice, is now open and accepting patients on the Bethany Village campus. Patients living at Bethany Village are eligible along with residents of Montgomery and Greene counties. Services provided include pain management, symptom control and bereavement support. Hospice services will allow Bethany to offer a continuum of compassionate support to patients and the community. BethanyLutheranVillage.org
Photography by WashingtonCenterville Public Library
Photography by Bethany Village
The Westheimer Group Announces New Art Partnership
Laurie Westheimer of Berkshire Hathaway Home Services is proud to announce a new partnership with the Dayton Society of Artists, a nonprofit organization and art gallery in Dayton’s St. Anne’s Hill neighborhood. The collaboration will bring a rotation of stunning local artwork to her office located at 3000 Far Hills Ave. Mikee Huber’s art, known for its dynamic layers of paint and ink, will be featured first. Stay tuned for an opportunity to meet the artist. WestheimerGroupDayton.com; DaytondSA.org
Photography by Mikee Huber
OFFERING COMPASSION THROUGH CLOTHING
ARTICLE BY NINA WEIERMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMANDA STOUT & PROVIDED
Starting as an annual church ministry event in 2011, Threads of Miami Valley has grown to provide between 350 and 400 families with clothing and other essential care items every month. Executive Director JoBeth Hopp has been with Threads since the beginning and has witnessed firsthand the difference it makes in the community. “Every single person that comes in is in the middle of a journey, and we get to walk beside them for a short time,” shares JoBeth.
At their current location at 33 Lawrence Avenue in Miamisburg, Threads provides free, gently used clothing, shoes, accessories and coats for children and adults. They also offer limited diapers, toiletry kits and period products through community partnerships. Shopping is done by appointment only and appointments can be made via the website, Facebook page or phone. Clients are limited to one visit every four months.
Threads of Miami Valley provides free clothing to people in need for more than a decade.
As need grows in our community, Threads is looking to grow to meet those needs. “We are very excited about the possibility of moving to a larger location in the future. Even serving 350 plus families a month, the waitlist for appointments is sometimes four to six weeks and that is in part due to building constraints,” expresses JoBeth.
There are 150 dedicated volunteers who serve Threads consistently. “We absolutely could not operate without community involvement and financial support,” shares JoBeth. Threads relies on donations to provide their clients with the clothing that is needed. “I invite anyone interested in learning more about our cause to contact us and request a tour to see where your donations go and how our clients receive assistance,” she says.
Threads of Miami Valley Wish List
• Toddler size 5T clothing
• Sheets and towels
• Men’s athletic shorts
• Period products
Financial donations can be made to Threads securely through their website or mailed in via check. Donations of gently used clothing are accepted on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday mornings from 9 to 11:30 a.m. and Wednesday evenings from 6:15 to 8:00 p.m. Other ways to support Threads include connecting your Kroger Plus card through Kroger Community Rewards and volunteering your time. For more information on how to support Threads, please visit ThreadsOutreach.org
Grown Your Library has
Do you use a rotary phone? No? Neither do we.
The Washington-Township Public Library has rolled out innovative services that will blow your mind.
With just your library card*, you can unlock a world of possibilities:
• Craft custom etched glassware
• Binge the latest shows
• Entertain and educate your kids with preloaded tablets
• Emblazon t-shirts and other gear with your artwork
• Get creative with jewelry-making kits
• Wield a laser cutter for precision projects
Whether you’re a techie, artist, or lifelong learner, come explore, create, and experience things you never thought possible at a library.
Level up your library experience today at the Washington-Centerville Public Library.
ARTICLE BY NAN PARASKEVOPOULOS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Lederhosen! Break Out the
OKTOBERFEST, DAYTON ART INSTITUTE'S LARGEST FUNDRAISER OF THE YEAR IS COMING SOON.
Since 1971, Dayton Art Institute's Oktoberfest has been a cherished tradition in Southwest Ohio delighting visitors with its vibrant celebration of German culture and serving as the museum's largest annual fundraiser. Over the years, this event has grown into a beloved festival that draws more than 30,000 visitors, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Associate Board of the Dayton Art Institute (DAI).
Signature Events Coordinator for DAI Audrey Starr shares, “As a former associate board member who logged hundreds of hours volunteering at Oktoberfest, I can attest that this is one of the year's most fun and meaningful events.”
The festival spans three days, September 27-29, starting with the Lederhosen Lunch and Preview Party on Friday, followed by regular festival hours on Saturday and Sunday. The Lederhosen Lunch is a festive kickoff featuring traditional German dress and fare, setting the tone for the weekend's celebrations. This event offers exclusive access to artisan booths, food vendors and live entertainment.
Oktoberfest’s renowned artisan tents are returning this year, showcasing the work of over 40 local and regional artists selected through a competitive jury process each summer. These artists offer a wide range of unique items for sale, from handcrafted jewelry to fine art, providing a perfect opportunity for early holiday shopping.
During the festival a jury also awards a Best in Show prize, recognizing outstanding artistry and craftsmanship. This year’s list of artisans will be available this month, and visitors can look forward to discovering a diverse array of handmade goods and artistic creations. The fest’s Mugs and Tees tent is also always a hit among attendees, featuring new apparel and accessory designs each year and a custom pottery stein in various sizes. Audrey says, “Many guests look forward to visiting the Mugs and Tees tent. We often have guests return year after year to attend the festival and pick up the new stein!”
One of the festival's highlights is the ACCO Brands FamilyFest, which runs from noon to 5 p.m. each day. This family-friendly segment of the event includes activities for all ages, such as makeand-take art projects, community mosaics, face painting or balloon art. It’s a wonderful way for families to spend time together while engaging in creative and interactive activities.
Music lovers will find plenty to enjoy at Oktoberfest. There will be two stages featuring live performances throughout the weekend. The musical lineup includes a mix of traditional polka and contemporary hits, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a fan of lively accordion tunes or modern party anthems, the festival’s diverse musical offerings are sure to keep you entertained.
Audrey shares, “One year, the skies opened up and rain began pouring in buckets. Not only did the party not stop, but people embraced it, dancing in the rain and not minding if their drink was topped off with a little rainwater.”
No Oktoberfest would be complete without a robust selection of food and beverages, and DAI’s festival rises to the occasion. With more than 20 food vendors - including German classics like schnitzel - and 10 beverage locations serving beer, wine, canned cocktails and nonalcoholic options, attendees can indulge in a wide variety of culinary delights.
DAI has made it easier to secure tickets this year. Online sales started on August 1 and a new weekend pass option is available. Visitors attending Oktoberfest not only enjoy a fantastic cultural experience but also support Dayton Art Institute, ensuring that it can continue to offer enriching art programs and exhibitions throughout the year.
CONTINUED >
“I can attest that this is one of the year's most fun and meaningful events.”
Another way to support the festival is by signing up to volunteer. Oktoberfest relies on the support of over 2,000 volunteers each year. There are opportunities to get involved with the Oktoberfest community by selling mugs, t-shirts and beverages or working the admissions gate.
With its rich history, diverse offerings and commitment to supporting access to the arts, it’s no wonder that DAI Oktoberfest is a highlight of the year for many. Whether you’re a longtime attendee or a first-time visitor, this festival promises an unforgettable experience filled with fun, culture and camaraderie.
For detailed information on event schedules, admission prices and more, visitors can check out DAI’s website at DaytonArtInstitute.org/Oktoberfest
A CUT
above
Left to right: Jenny Andrea, Mike Elsass and Sarah Nussman
Willow Rust offers stylish handcrafted furniture pieces to be treasured for a lifetime.
ARTICLE BY NINA WEIERMAN
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY
KELLY SETTLE–KELLY ANN PHOTOGRAPHY
Sarah Nussman and Jenny Andrea, co-owners of custom furniture shop Willow Rust, are prime examples of how passion, hard work and a commitment to quality can turn a small venture into a successful and meaningful business. What began as a way for Sarah and Jenny to make a supplemental income has transformed into a thriving enterprise that produces beautiful, handcrafted furniture, supports local artisans and contributes to the community.
“Willow Rust started about nine years ago as a way for Sarah and me to make extra money as she went to school for accounting and I worked with kids as a mental health counselor,” shares Jenny.
Jenny and Sarah build custom handmade furniture pieces, working with their clients to create one-of-a-kind, quality items while staying within budget constraints. “From the beginning of Willow Rust, our goal has been to provide clients with quality products that would not only last for years to come but also fit into a range of budgets,” says Jenny.
When choosing the materials for their furniture pieces, Sarah and Jenny use two local mills that take pride in utilizing sustainable wood harvesting methods.
“Our pieces are made with 100% natural wood and are built by us. After getting the client's vision and any specific features they are looking for, we go to the mills personally and handpick the slabs of lumber,” says Jenny.
Jenny and Sarah love to take a client's idea and build it into reality. “They do not have to have it all figured out before contacting us and usually after a little time together we can design and get a good picture of what they are looking for,” details Jenny.
A great place to start is by stopping by the shop at The Greene in Beavercreek or contacting them via email or Facebook. Once an order has been finalized, a deposit is required to secure the materials and then the remaining amount is due when the piece is completed, typically about 8 to 12 weeks later.
Over the years, Jenny and Sarah have had the opportunity to create a variety of unique pieces for commercial settings including bars, desks and restaurant tables and for residential uses including beds and bathroom vanities. Their shop at The Greene not only showcases ready-made furniture pieces that can be purchased but also features home decor items that are handmade by Jenny and Sarah or by local artisans.
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“We can engrave and make endless options of personalized gifts and branding items perfect for birthdays, anniversaries and special occasions as well as corporate and business events,” shares Jenny.
The shop is also home to artwork from world-renowned painter, Mike Elsass. “Now people can walk into our store seven days a week and purchase a beautiful piece of his work,” Jenny explains.
Mike Elsass is an acclaimed artist known for his distinctive work with rusted steel. His abstract paintings, made by layering various colors and textures on metal, are displayed in galleries, businesses and homes worldwide. Mike, who is also deeply committed to his community, often engages in charitable events and collaborations to support local nonprofits and artists. Mike is planning a live painting charity event October 15-30 benefitting local
nonprofits with donation opportunities for Hannah's Treasure Chest and For Love of Children.
Willow Rust also offers stylish home decor and goods as well as a variety of plants for everyone who stops in, as Jenny and Sarah have created and curated something for every budget and need. Their passion, hard work and commitment to quality are evident in every piece of furniture they create and these qualities will live on in the homes and businesses that use their pieces every day to live, work and play.
For more information visit WillowRust.com or Facebook. com/WillowRust and Mike Elsass at MikeElsass.com.
Willow Rust
June 22–September 8, 2024
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
* This exhibition will elicit a range of responses. It will have images of nudity and art addressing various issues that include sexual relations, reproductive rights 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.
THRIF T Y FINDS FOR FALL
LOCAL STYLE EXPERT SHARES TRENDS AND TIPS FOR INCORPORATING THRIFTING INTO YOUR FALL WARDROBE UPDATES.
ARTICLE BY AMANDA STOUT PHOTOGRAPHY BY AUSTIN + SHILO CREATIVE
Opposite Page:
Top-Free People (Resale-Clothes Mentor)
Maxi Skirt-Amazon
Western-Style Ankle Boots-The Post
Purse (Thrifted-Goodwill)
This Page:
Womens:
Cardigan-NY&Co (Thrifted-Goodwill)
Tank-Rose & Remington
Barrel-leg Jeans-Free People
Lug Sole Ankle Boots-Sam Edelman (Resale-Clothes Mentor)
Mens:
Jeans-Amazon
Heavy Denim Shirt-Cabela’s (Thrifted-Goodwill)
Dayton-area stylist Amanda Whitt loves to express herself through fashion and enjoys sharing her savvy shopping choices with others. “I love it when something I'm wearing sparks a conversation and I get to tell someone I got it for $5 at Goodwill. I enjoy showing people that you don’t have to spend a lot of money or buy everything new to be stylish,” says Amanda. Find Amanda on Instagram (@arosestyling) and LTK (@arosestyling).
Fall Fashion Trends:
• Start with staples: chunky sweaters, cardigans, straight-leg jeans and lug-sole boots.
• Full maxi skirts are on the rise along with ballet flats.
• No need to balance one outfit between oversized and fitted. Amanda explains, “I see trendy styles at both ends of that spectrum: a super oversized sweater with baggy jeans or a fitted top with a mini skirt.”
Denim Mini Dress-LOFT (Resale-Clothes Mentor) Turtleneck-i.e. (Thrifted-The Salvation Army) Lug Sole Knee-High Boots-Sam Edelman Purse (Thrifted-Goodwill)
Thrift/Resale Shopping Tips:
• Focus on quality. “I buy pieces from Amazon and similar sources, but they don’t stand the test of time or compare to the quality of most vintage pieces,” says Amanda.
• Brands to look for: Ralph Lauren, Levi’s, Free People, Anthropologie, Tommy Hilfiger, Brooks Brothers and L.L.Bean.
• If thrift stores like Goodwill or The Salvation Army intimidate you, try a curated resale experience like Clothes Mentor or Plato’s Closet.
Zip Sweater-World Republic (Thrifted)
Overalls-Amazon
Converse All-Stars High Tops-Comme des Garçons Purse-The Sak (Thrifted-The Salvation Army)
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS SEPTEMBER 2024
events
SEPTEMBER 5TH
A Sense of Taste
Benham’s Grove | 5:00 PM
Support Centerville-Washington History while enjoying an evening at Benham’s Grove sampling food provided by more than a dozen local establishments. Live music by Mr. Edde Osborne, an open bar and shopping will make this a special night for families, friends and neighbors. For tickets and more information go to CentervilleWashingtonHistory.org.
SEPTEMBER 6TH
Uptown Music Series with Innovation Trio
Main St. in Centerville | 6:30 PM
The Uptown Music Series continues at the northeast corner of Franklin and Main Streets on the patio near Graeters and City Barbeque. Innovation Trio will bring their blend of jazz to the series on September 6 at 6:30 p.m. The trio features a trumpet, bass and drums. For weather-related announcements visit CentervilleOhio.gov.
SEPTEMBER 13TH
John P. Kalaman Memorial Golf Tournament
Yankee Trace Golf Club | 8:00 AM
The John P. Kalaman Memorial Tournament helps to fund three scholarships for area students annually. The tournament was first held in 1999. Donuts, coffee and complimentary range balls will precede a shotgun start. Silent and live auctions will accompany dinner when the play is complete. Check-in begins at 8 a.m. For registration visit YankeeTrace.org.
SEPTEMBER 21ST
Dayton Summerfest
Levitt Pavilion | 3:00 PM
The Rotary Club of Dayton presents Dayton Summerfest 2024 at Levitt Pavilion. This free event is for the entire family and will showcase live music from the area’s best soul, blues and funk bands. Food trucks, vendor and artisan booths, beverage sales and a raffle will all be onsite. DaytonRotary.com
SEPTEMBER 27TH - 29TH
Oktoberfest at DAI
Dayton Art Institute | 11:00 AM
The Dayton Art Institute Oktoberfest is back with live music, great food, a Weingarten and a large selection of craft beers. You’ll also find family activities and over 40 artisans specializing in ceramics, glass, woodworking and other disciplines. Free parking and shuttle services are available. For details and ticket information visit DaytonArtInstitute.org/Oktoberfest.
SEPTEMBER 27TH - 28TH
Tipp City Mum Festival
Tipp City Park | 4:00 PM
The 65th annual Tipp City Mum Festival weekend includes one of the largest car shows in the area, a 5K, parade through downtown Tipp City and more than 250 booths featuring arts and crafts, food vendors and various merchants. Kid’s Land offers inflatables and other activities for children. For a complete schedule of events go to TippMumFestival.org
