Style in the Details
More Than a Look
Style can take many forms. Whether it’s the confidence and comfort of a new outfit or a pair of shoes or a thoughtfully designed home that elevates your surroundings and daily routines, this month’s stories show us that style is about more than appearance. It is about how we live, how we give, and how we express ourselves in ways that matter.
Shoes 4 the Shoeless is meeting a critical but often overlooked need for children in our region. By providing brand-new shoes and socks to thousands of children each year, they deliver comfort, confidence and dignity that changes how children show up at school and in their communities.
On the home front, Dayton Designer Closets proves that organization can be as stylish as it is functional. Their custom designs transform closets into inviting spaces where everything has a place and getting dressed becomes a joy.
In the world of fashion, local media personality and content creator Gina Ferraro reminds us that style can also be a celebration of community. Her love for shopping small, mixing boutique finds with personal favorites, and embracing fall’s rich textures and tones shows how fashion can tell a story uniquely your own.
From the way we arrange our homes to the clothes we wear and the kindness we share, style lives in the details. May these stories inspire you to find and express your own style this season.
MARK ANDREA, PUBLISHER @CENTERVILLELIFESTYLE
September 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
Marie Kriedman, Nina Weierman, Amanda Stout
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
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
quick care for sick kids
right here in Centerville
Whether it’s a sore throat after school or a fever over the weekend, Kids Express offers walk-in care just for kids.
no appointment needed, open 7 days a week, close to home
Located in Sugarcreek Plaza
View wait times and save your spot online
inside the issue
Shoe Program Helps Kids Stand Tall
Shoes
The Closet of Your Dreams
Dayton
Get
Where Every Day Living Feels E ortless
At Bethany Village, apartment living means more time for what matters most. Enjoy elegant, maintenance-free living, thoughtful amenities, and a warm, welcoming community of neighbors who value the same quality of life you do. And with a trusted team always nearby, you can spend each day doing what you love, knowing everything else is taken care of.
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city scene
1: Retiring Primary Village North Principal, Mindy Cline, was Grand Marshal for the Americana Festival Parade. 2: Kids in festive outfits smiled as this year’s beloved parade marched past their curb. 3: Boy Scouts proudly carried an expansive American flag during the 53rd Americana Parade. 4: Kids claimed a front row seat on a blanket to watch the parade pass by. 5: Full of joy and excitement, these children enjoyed the festival in style. 6: Runners launched from Centerville High’s track for this year’s Americana 5K tradition. 7: Celebrating after the Up and Running 5K, participants cooled down in official race t-shirts.
Photography by Leighanna Hornick
8: The Centerville-Washington Park District dedicated two new bridges at Grant Park on July 16. 9: Community leaders and donors celebrated with a ribbon cutting at the new Normandy entrance bridge. 10: Guests explored the new ADA accessible bridge connecting park trails during the dedication ceremony. 11: CWPD camps held in Grant Park are making use of the new bridges. 12: The Cornerstone Pop-up Party on July 19 featured a Star Wars theme and characters. 13: Kids created colorful sand art as part of the afternoon’s hands-on craft activities. 14: Kids joined a wickedly fun sing-along inspired by the hit musical Wicked.
CENTERVILLE-WASHINGTON PARK DISTRICT CENTERVILLE-WASHINGTON PARK DISTRICT
CENTERVILLE-WASHINGTON PARK DISTRICT
CITY OF CENTERVILLE
CENTERVILLE-WASHINGTON PARK DISTRICT CITY OF CENTERVILLE
Manga Kingdom marked its grand opening with a ribbon cutting at 101 E. Alex Bell Rd. 16: Inside Manga Kingdom, fans find an exciting collection of manga and anime merchandise. 17: A crowd gathered at Stubbs Park on July 6 for 24K Magic’s energetic Bruno Mars tribute. 18: Families relaxed on lawn chairs during the Cornerstone Music Series, enjoying a warm summer evening. 19: Different and the Same delivered an intimate, captivating performance at Cornerstone Park. 20: Landslide brought Fleetwood Mac’s magic and mystique to Centerville. 21: Head Games: A Tribute to Foreigner rocked the crowd at Stubbs on July 11.
Photography by City of Centerville
15:
business monthly
Manhattan Short Film Festival at Woodbourne Library
Join more than 100,000 film lovers in September and October to view the final ten films in the 27th annual Manhattan Short Film Festival. After each showing at the Woodbourne Library, audience members will be asked to cast their votes for two categories. These films will also be eligible to enter the Academy Awards competition for the next two years. This program is for patrons 18+. For dates, times and registration, visit WCLibrary.info
Dorothy Lane Market Chooses Leaders for New Mason Store
The much-anticipated opening of the Mason Dorothy Lane Market (DLM) location includes the arrival of several longstanding leaders within the company who will serve the newest store in a variety of roles. Store Director Dennis Chrisman, a vice president who has amassed 45 years with DLM, will be joined by Assistant Store Director Brian Sheets, who has been with DLM for 20 years. They are both excited about sharing the DLM experience with the Mason community. DorothyLane.com
Tickets on Sale in September for Ghost Walk on Main
Partake in a spooktacular haunted history stroll through Uptown Centerville on October 10! Ghost Walk on Main is brought to you by the Friends of WCPL in collaboration with Centerville-Washington History, Washington Township, Town Hall Theatre, Centerville-Washington Park District and Washington-Centerville Public Library. Begin at Benham's Grove for heavy snacks and drinks before starting a unique journey filled with storytelling and reenactments from Centerville’s extensive history. Tickets on sale for adults 21+ September 9 at 8 a.m. WCLibrary.info/GhostWalk.
Photography by Washington-Centerville Public Library
Photography by Tracey Doyle for Dorothy Lane Market
Photography by Megan Suttles
L to R: Dennis Chrisman, Brian Sheets
SHOE PROGRAM HELPS KIDS STAND TALL
SHOES 4 THE SHOELESS PROVIDES FREE SOCKS AND SHOES TO SOUTHWEST OHIO CHILDREN.
Starting a nonprofit takes hard work and dedication. From the beginning, the new venture requires funding, volunteers, a coordinated effort to address a specific need, distribution plans to expand access and a passion to help others.
ARTICLE BY MARIE KRIEDMAN PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Kris Horlacher, RN, BSN, knows this process well. She founded Shoes 4 the Shoeless (S4TS) which delivers brandnew socks and gym shoes to disadvantaged children throughout 21 southwest Ohio counties.
An ER nurse by trade, Kris was managing an after-school program for homeless children when she noticed that many of the kids wore shoes that didn’t fit.
“I saw how damaged their feet were from wearing shoes that were too small, and that is where my background kicked in,” she explains. “There are very few people
working in this area, and it drew my attention to that specific need. I started the nonprofit and here we are.”
Children who live in families who are struggling financially receive shoes and socks through an in-school delivery program. A professional staff and 50 volunteers attend each event, working one-onone with students to measure their feet and make adjustments to ensure a proper fit. The team sets up over 2,000 pairs of brand-new gym shoes and socks in the school gym and the process begins! Over 600 volunteers participate each month.
Summer COOKOUTS
“AS A VOLUNTEER, IT WILL CHANGE YOUR LIFE. IT CHANGES KIDS' LIVES.”
Since its inception in 2010, the nonprofit has helped about 220,000 children including children at Dayton Children’s Hospital. They serve over 100 schools and organizations in 22 counties throughout Southwest Ohio. But, they just reach the tip of the iceberg. This is a need that never ends. The need to expand the organization is at the heart of who they are as a team.
“We are the first responders to an unseen trauma. A pair of shoes that fits and is fit to wear along with socks, is one of the biggest unmet healthcare needs for children in poverty,” Kris explains.
“The work of children is to run, jump and play. When their feet hurt, they don’t want to do anything that requires movement.”
Greg Fay started volunteering with Shoes 4 the Shoeless 10 years ago after hearing about the program through SouthBrook Christian Church.
“God has blessed me far more than I deserve. I love giving back and using the blessings that He has provided me to affect others’ lives,” he explains.
For Greg, helping children is especially important and he emphasizes that, “Kris has this volunteer opportunity fine-tuned
like a well-oiled machine.” Part of his volunteer efforts includes fitting shoes and entertaining children as they wait their turn in line, eager to get into the gym for their new shoes.
“The program has expanded so much, and it runs smoother than ever,” he offers. “You show up, get plugged into a spot, you serve and then you leave knowing that you made a difference.”
Greg shares that volunteering through a donation of time or financial support is a chance to see an immediate impact in the community.
“As a volunteer, it will change your life. It changes kids' lives and it changes the volunteers' lives just as much,” shares Kris.
The work is challenging and the hours are long, but for the S4TS team, the effort is vital because the impact of taking on an under-addressed issue is powerful.
“Easily 70% of the kids we see have never worn shoes that fit,” she says. “The kids are overjoyed. We bring relief from pain, worry and being cold, so they run and play normally. It’s the most joyful moment to witness.”
For more information, e-mail info@shoes4theshoeless.org or visit Shoes4theShoeless.org
THE CLOSET OF YOUR DREAMS
ARTICLE BY NINA WEIERMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AUSTIN + SHILO CREATIVE
Dayton Designer Closets crafts stylish and useful spaces to organize life’s necessities.
Thirty years ago, the movie Clueless introduced us to the concept of the dream closet: a truly custom space where organization meets style, accessories are expertly showcased, and every day feels like a runway moment. Today, more people are looking to customize their closets, simplifying daily routines and bringing order and beauty to modern living. “Overall, we’re seeing custom closets become more important for clients, whether they’re designing a space in a newly built home or updating an existing closet to suit their needs and lifestyle better,” says Owner of Dayton Designer Closets, Rachael Fahncke.
When local homeowner Kim Leach began working with homebuilder Design Homes, she knew a custom closet would be one of the most meaningful features in her new home. “I love my closet, it is one of my favorite rooms in the house,” Kim remarks. Together with Dayton Designer Closets Lead Designer Amber Morrow, Kim crafted her perfect closet space. “Amber and her team did a great job helping us decide what to incorporate into this space, and the result was beyond my expectations,” she adds.
Amber’s design process starts with getting to know the homeowner personally. “The homeowner’s preferences and lifestyle affect every aspect of my designs,” she explains. “The goal is always to give the client an appealing area they want to spend time in that fits all their needs. It has to be beautiful and useful.” This approach ensures that the closet not only serves as a storage space but also becomes a welcoming retreat tailored to the client’s daily habits and style.
Applying this thoughtful and collaborative process, Amber worked closely with Kim to bring her vision to life. “It's all about asking the right questions to provide a design that feels comfortable and meets all their needs,” Amber notes. Among the custom features she created are a shoe wall that offers both visibility and organization, along with a felt-lined drawer designed to keep Kim’s collection of belt buckles safe from dust and scratches.
“I love looking at my wall of shoes and seeing them all in one place and now I finally have a spot to store all of my jewelry without having a clunky jewelry box sitting on the counter. The trays are lined in soft material so you know your jewelry is safe and protected,” Kim comments.
Beyond these standout features, Amber incorporated several other thoughtful touches that enhance both function and style. Pullout valet rods provide Kim with a convenient way to plan outfits ahead of time, keeping her morning routine smooth and stress-free. Top shelves wrap around the closet, maximizing storage space for off-season clothing and items that aren’t used daily, helping keep the area uncluttered. “I love having all of my clothes in one place where they are easily seen; it makes getting dressed so much easier,” Kim observes.
Amber looks forward to working with each new client because every space and client is unique. “I enjoy working with all clients, builders and decorators to help get a sense of what each customer is looking for. They often do not know what their options are until you show them,” Amber states.
This personalized approach ensures that every closet is tailored to fit the individual’s lifestyle and preferences, resulting in a space that is both functional and inviting, making the daily routine a little easier and a lot more stylish. To get started on your dream closet project, visit DaytonDesignerClosets.com
Hidden hamper
Fold away full length mirror.
Featured Image: Curtis Barnes, Sr., (American, 1935–2019), Masks (detail), 1993, oil on canvas,
collection
ARTICLE BY PAM REID
OLD WALL, NEW TRICKS
HANG UP THE OLD WAY AND TRY A GALLERY WALL HANGING SYSTEM IN YOUR HOME.
One of my happy places is sitting in front of a museum wall gallery. I can admire art for hours, and if I’m with a friend, there’s no telling how long we’ll sit, reflect, and share our individual perspectives. If you’ve admired gallery wall displays in magazines, catalogs, or on social media and would like to create one in your home, it’s much easier than you might think.
DESIGNING YOUR GALLERY WALL
The first step in creating a gallery wall is planning. Start by selecting a theme or color scheme that complements your space. Themes can be as varied as black-and-white photographs, abstract paintings, or a mix of personal and artistic prints.
MATERIALS YOU WILL NEED:
• A gallery wall hanging system, which typically includes mounting rails, cables or rods, and hooks. You can find them pretty much anywhere, online or at your local home improvement store.
• A collection of frames and artwork.
• A level, measuring tape, and perhaps a laser pointer for precision.
CREATIVE ARRANGEMENTS
• The arrangement of your gallery wall can follow several patterns, depending on your taste:
• Linear: Artworks are hung in a straight line at eye level, creating a clean and orderly appearance.
• Grid: Perfect for a collection of similarly sized frames, this layout emphasizes structure and uniformity.
• Salon Style: This more traditional arrangement involves layering pieces closely together, often extending across the wall. It’s ideal for creating a rich, filled look.
INSTALLATION TIPS:
01 MEASURE YOUR SPACE:
Carefully measure the wall space where you want to install the gallery. Consider the height and width available, keeping in mind furniture and other room features.
02 LAY IT OUT:
Arrange your artwork on the floor to finalize your layout. This “dry run” is crucial to get a feel for how the pieces will interact with one another. I like to use painter’s tape to create a visual of what my display will look like on the walls.
03 INSTALL THE RAILS AND HANG YOUR ART:
Following the manufacturer’s instructions, mount the rails at the top of your wall. Ensure they are level and securely attached. Attach cables or rods to the rails, then use hooks to hang your frames. The beauty of the system is that you can adjust the height and position easily.
04 BALANCE AND SYMMETRY:
Step back to view your layout from different angles. Adjust the spacing and alignment as needed to achieve visual balance.
Mark turned a magazine into community.
City Lifestyle isn’t just a publication — it’s a pulse. A rhythm of voices, neighbors, and stories woven together by someone who believes in the power of connection. As we expand, we’re looking for people ready to turn care into community. Are you ready to be that spark?
Centerville Lifestyle
Published by Mark Loved by Centerville
S H O P
SMALL STYLE
GET INSPIRED WITH FASHION-FORWARD FALL RECOMMENDATIONS FROM DAYTON MEDIA MAINSTAY, GINA FERRARO.
ARTICLE BY AMANDA STOUT
PHOTOGRAPHY BY AUSTIN + SHILO CREATIVE
Meet Gina Ferraro
Before becoming a well-known content creator and fashion storyteller, Gina Ferraro spent over 15 years working in the Dayton media scene on both radio and TV. These days, she helps her clients create engaging social media content and works as a Multiplatform On-Air Talent and Content Contributor for iHeartMedia Dayton. Gina shares, “My broadcasting experience helped me develop a deep love for this community and a passion for spotlighting the people and small businesses that make Dayton and Centerville so vibrant.”
Opposite: Gina: Strut + Bolt satin blue jumpsuit (Kloth), Love Tree white jacket (Akira)
This page: Saints & Hearts wide-leg pants (Farmhouse Decor and Co), Little Daisy Closet floral body suit (Farmhouse Decor & Co), Oasis Society The Bagan apricot/ transparent heel sandals (Kloth), Rachel Zoe cropped white sweater, Moda Luxe orange woven handle purse, Citizen watch
Style Trends for Fall
• Rich earth tones: Think rust, olive green and pumpkin—colors that reflect a seasonal palette.
• Chunky modern platform heel: Kloth’s Aisa platform heels elevate any early fall look. “I find myself pairing these incredibly comfortable heels with a wide range of outfits,” says Gina.
• Cozy layering pieces: Light, slouchy knits are ideal for transitioning from warm afternoons to cooler evenings at a Stubbs Park concert or a Heart of Centerville & Washington Twp event.
Altar’d State Green Scalloped Corduroy Mini Skirt, Le Lis Collection black sweater (Countyline Trends Boutique), Rebecca Minkoff mini Julian backpack, Bangle bracelets with feather detail (Brackish), Citizen watch
Adding Local Boutiques to Your Shopping Routine
• Start small: Try an accessory or pair of shoes to test the vibe.
• Attend events: Many local boutiques host fun pop-ups and collaborate with food trucks, coffee shops, artists and more—an easy entry into boutique culture.
• Mix and match: Blend pieces from local boutiques with thrift finds. Personal style gets richer and more unique that way.
Saints & Hearts maxi skirt (Farmhouse Decor & Co), Risen LA western denim vest (Farmhouse Decor & Co), Freebird Detroit snakeskin boots, H&M black hat
Gina has been drawn to fashion for as long as she can remember. “As a kid, I used to raid my mom’s closet. She had this magical box of clothes from the 1970s, and I was obsessed. I loved expressing myself through fashion. Funny enough, by high school, I was voted ‘Most Trendy’ in our senior superlatives!”
What keeps her coming back to fashion—especially shopping small and thrifting—is the thrill of the hunt and bringing a look to life with just the right styling or a creative upcycle. “What I love most is the blend of creativity, community and sustainability: supporting local while staying true to your own unique style,” enthuses Gina.
Connect with Gina this fall on Instagram (@ginalolla) to stay up to date on her plans for a “Boutique Mob” event night where shoppers will have the opportunity to meet up, shop local and save. She also recently launched @conventurous, a cosplay-focused channel where she and her fiancé Steven Alan interview fans about their incredible fashion-inspired creations from games, TV, movies and more.
CREDITS:
Makeup:
Trista Noe Instagram: @tristanoemakeup TristaNoeMakeup.com (Dayton/Cincinnati)
Lashes: The Beauty Loft Instagram: @beautyloftdayton (Centerville)
Hair:
Faith Youngkin Instagram: @faith_does_hair (Centerville)
Boutiques Used for Styling: Farmhouse Decor & Co Instagram: @farmhousedecorandco FarmHouseDecorandCo.com
Kloth Instagram: @klothohio
Countyline Trends Boutique Instagram: @shopcountylinetrendsboutique CountylineTrendsBoutique.com
Steven Alan: Gray wool cardigan (Abercrombie), Black jeans (Buckle), Cole Haan OriginalGrand Sneakers, Black belt with feather buckle (Brackish)
Howard’s Gold multi-strand gem necklace (Kloth)
Kork-Ease Green Loafers (Integritas-The Greene Town Center)
Oasis Society Aisa platform heels (Kloth)
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
WEEKENDS IN SEPTEMBER
Ohio Renaissance Festival
Waynesville, Ohio | 10:30 AM
Step into a lively 16th-century village bursting with costumed characters, thrilling jousts, artisan shops, human-powered rides and mouthwatering turkey legs. Take in the mud show, try your arm at throwing tomatoes or spot the queen strolling the grounds. With a different theme every weekend in September, 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m., there’s something magical for everyone. RenFestival.com
SEPTEMBER 5TH
Springboro Oktoberfest
Springboro United Church of Christ | 6:00 PM
Bring the whole family to Springboro Oktoberfest for a weekend filled with authentic German food, beer, wine, polka music, dancing, games and a kids' fun zone. Hosted by Springboro United Church of Christ, proceeds benefit local charities. Admission is $5 or free for kids under 12 and active military with ID. Learn more at OktoberfestSpringboro.org
SEPTEMBER 6TH
Fairy & Gnome Home Festival
Bill Yeck Park (Smith House Entrance) | 1:00 PM
Celebrate imagination and creativity at this magical family event with the Centerville-Washington Park District and the South Metro Optimist Club. Build a fairy or gnome home using natural materials, “purchase” embellishments with special event currency and pick your forest lot from the woodland realtor. Enjoy music by the Dayton Dulcimer Society, a craft and Sweet P’s Ice Pops. CWPD.org
SEPTEMBER 12TH
John P. Kalaman Memorial Golf Tournament
The Golf Club at Yankee Trace | 10:00 AM
Join the annual John P. Kalaman Memorial Golf Tournament supporting scholarships for local students in memory of fallen officer John Kalaman. Spend a meaningful day at The Golf Club at Yankee Trace, enjoying golf, community and remembrance while helping fund academic futures. Shotgun start at 10 a.m. Registration and sponsorship opportunities are available at YankeeTrace.org
SEPTEMBER 21ST
Centerville Sunday Series
Sinclair Centerville | 7:00 PM
Experience the magic of the King as a brand-new Centerville concert series launches this fall. The Centerville Sunday Series opens September 21 with Tyler Christopher’s electrifying Elvis tribute. Enjoy live music, great energy and concessions in a comfortable indoor setting. Seating is limited, so don’t miss your chance to catch the show! Full schedule and details at CentervilleOhio.gov.
SEPTEMBER 26TH - 28TH
DAI Oktoberfest
Dayton Art Institute | 12:00 PM
Southwest Ohio’s longest-running Oktoberfest returns with three days of beer, brats, bands and community fun! Don’t miss the 2nd Annual Steinholding Competition, live music, artisan vendors and more on the museum grounds. This beloved fundraiser supports the Dayton Art Institute’s year-round programs. Event details and tickets at DaytonArtInstitute.org/Oktoberfest.
