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HOLIDAY AT HOME SEEKS 2012 GRAND MARSHAL

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While the annual Kettering Holiday at Home festivities is still six months away, the committee is already seeking nominations for a south-area resident to serve as grand marshal of the annual Labor Day events. Nominees should be outstanding community citizens for the cities of Beavercreek, Bellbrook, Kettering, Miamisburg, Moraine, Oakwood, or West Carrollton, or from the townships of Beavercreek, Miami, Sugarcreek, or Washington. The ideal candidate is one having current strong community involvement as well as a history of volunteerism. Past nominees may be nominated again. Letters of nomination must provide a brief biography and include lists of accomplishments and involvement in the community. Mail nominations to Amanda Hoying, PO Box 292564, Kettering, OH 45429 or e-mail to [email protected] . Deadline is April 20th.

About Holiday at Home

The Holiday At Home celebration began on Labor Day, 1959, under the sponsorship of the Kettering YMCA. It was known then as “Kettering Day.” From this well-organized beginning, Holiday At Home was refined and enlarged to the present Labor Day weekend festival that is now enjoyed by thousands of south suburban residents and visitors.  Kettering is used in the name to indicate the location; however, the festivities are intended for all of the communities south of Dayton. All southern communities and townships are invited to share in the Holiday At Home activities and to become part of the organization. The theme for 2012 will be Holiday at Home Puts on The Glitz.

Basho Apparel Opens New Shop in the Oregon District

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Basho Apparel’s first month of business since opening their new location in the Oregon District has exceeded their wildest expectations, according to Brian Johnson, co-owner of Basho with fellow artist and New York native Paul Baker.

“Opening is always really exciting and completely terrifying at the same time,” says Johnson.  “It can be hard to gauge the reaction you’ll get from the public.  But we were selling later than the bars in the Oregon on our opening night, and since then we’ve had a steady flow of new customers from Dayton, as well as holding on to many of our regulars from Yellow Springs.”

Basho is a full-service screen printing shop located on E. Fifth Street.  The store offers clothing and accessories designed by local artists, as well as using water-based ink in their printing process that is more environmentally friendly than that used by much of the industry.

“It’s a lot of work,” Johnson says. “At Basho we do all our own tricks… any construction or painting is always kept in-house. I guess that’s one of the benefits of working with a bunch of cool designers and artists.”

The store’s local focus is also important to Johnson.

“We offer artist-designed, locally made apparel,” he says.  “Also, every First Friday we work with a local artist to release a short-run retail line. It’s a fun way to reach out to the community, not to mention help someone who may not be able to start their own line.”

Baker opened his first store in Yellow Springs in 2000, but Johnson didn’t get involved until a few years later.

“Paul and I first met when I started working for him in the summer of ’05,” Johnson says.  “He needed someone to run a cash register at his store in Yellow Springs, and it was a fun temporary job for me.”

“Fast-forward six years and I’m having a single artist showing at Fifth Third Tower in Dayton,” he continues.  “I’d invited Paul, but didn’t expect him to come – he hates leaving the house. He showed up though, and we ended up talking business. Paul had come to a point where he didn’t want to handle the administrative aspects anymore; he wanted to focus on his printing and design work.  A few months later everything started rolling, and we made the arrangement official.”

The partners opened their Dayton location earlier this year with the help of Activated Spaces, a volunteer organization seeking to boost Dayton’s economy by filling empty storefronts downtown with art installations, short-term (or “pop-up”) retail spaces, and longer-term businesses.

“Everybody I talk to seems to think that Dayton is a risky market for retail,” Johnson says. “But I live downtown, I go to shows downtown, I get coffee downtown, and I make probably 95% of my purchases downtown.  And I am, by far, not the only one.”

“There’s been a huge surge in business openings on the east side of the Oregon District within the last year,” says Johnson.  “If that’s not evidence that there is a blossoming, eclectic economy growing in Dayton, I don’t know what is.  And we want to be a part of it.”

Bridal Beauty Survival Kit

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 It’s that time of year again when all things bride enter many of our lives. There’s   nothing more exciting and stressful than planning your wedding day and how you are going to look the day of should not be one of those stresses. I have people ask me all the time why they should get their makeup done for their wedding day. There are a few answers and my number one is “dont you want to relax?” makeup and hair should be the last thing on your mind on the big day and hiring a professional team (if in your budget) is a luxury. The next response is, “my cousin Betty does great makeup and she will do it for free” Cousin Betty may be great at her own makeup and yours as well for a night on the town but when it comes to a professional photographer, bright lights, random tears and sweat cousin Betty may not have the tools to handle it. The fact is bridal makeup is not everyday makeup. You will look like yourself and natural but there are lots of tricks that we, makeup artists use to make you looko flawless all day. As trained artists we know how you are going to look in all kinds of lighting and how to make you look your best from all angles.

 

The next big question, “whats airbrush makeup and why do I need it?” Airbrush makeup is exactly what it sounds like, it is applied with an airbrush gun similar to ones you have seen for shirt making. Using trained techniques airbrushing gives you a flawless complexion in a long wearing weightless formula. Using different pressures makeup artists are able to contour and adjust certain areas of the skin to make you a beautiful even face. Most brides love it becasue you feel like there is nothing on your face. So you might now be thinking, “why can’t regular foundation do that?” Regular foundation can be just as flawless if applied correctly the biggest difference is the long wearing factor and how your skin feels. Airbrush is weightless and most traditional foundations can be felt on the skin. Another big difference is that airbrush foundation is waterproof and long wearing where as traditional foundations may not always be. If you choose traditional foundation be sure and ask your makeup artist if they are using a primer and waterproofing setting spray to make sure you dont lose that gorgeous face!

 

What if makeup is not in your budget? Dont dispair there are options. A popular service that I have provided over the years is teaching the bride to do her own makeup with her own products. Basically you have a private makeup session to learn how to make yourself flawless the day of. This is often an affordable choice for the budget friendly bride. The one thing that I must stress is beware of makeup counters! Not all but many of the girls at the counters are not trained professionals. No matter who or what you choose for you makeup be sure and do a run through so there are no surprises on the day of.

 

How do you know what to look for in a beauty team? You definitly want to see a portfolio of actual work and many brides recommend artists to one another after their weddings. Word of mouth is the best way to go. You know someone has used them and had a perfect result. The next step is making sure you are compatible with your beauty team. Remember these are the people you are going to be with at the last moments before you walk down the aisle. The last thing you need is someone who makes you nervous. You will know when you schedule your trial if it’s a good match. Look for someone who makes you comfortable and that you can laugh with. You will most likely be nervous so you need someone who can keep the mood light and easy.

 

Remember this is your big day and you want to be at your best on every level. The day of the wedding should be your day to relax and be pampered. Choosing a beauty team that fits your needs will make the day go much smoother and keep you from worrying about more than you need to. Below I have given you 6 month check list of what you need to be doing to prepare for one of best days of your life.

 

6 Months Before

 

Start a skin care regime. Schedule your first facial with an esthetician to get on a skin care plan that may include peels and/or microdermabrasion.

Now is the time to experiment with different cuts and colors. Once you find a look that you are comfortable with begin a hair care routine that includes regular deep conditioning treatments and trims every 4–6 weeks.

5 Months Before

 

If your nails are short, begin growing them out or consider nail enhancements such as acrylics. If you plan on having natural nails, begin monthly manicures and pedicures. This will ensure your nails are strong and look flawless for your wedding as well as serve as a nice break from all that wedding planning!

4 Months Before

 

Make your hair and make-up appointments for your trial and wedding day.

Make hair and make-up appointments for your bridesmaids and relatives as well.

2–3 Months Before

 

Continue skin care plan.

Research different hair and make-up styles you would like to try on your trial.

1 Month Before

Get your trial hair and make-up completed together. This allows enough time before the wedding if you want to try a new style but is close enough to keep your look fresh in your service provider’s mind.

Receive your final skin peel/microdermabrasion.                        

2 Weeks Before

Get your final hair trim and deep conditioning treatment.

Touch up your color and/or highlights.

Receive your final facial.

1 Week Before

Receive any waxing services such as brow, lip, legs, etc. Also keep in mind getting a bikini wax – especially if you’re going somewhere tropical for your honeymoon. For the best results, waxing services should be performed on 3–4 weeks of hair growth. If you do not usually get waxed, begin a few months before your wedding day to avoid an adverse reaction to the wax.

Get a relaxing massage. Chances are it will be a nice relaxing break from all that last minute wedding planning!

Get an airbrush tan it gives it time to fade if its too dark and you can bronze again two to three days before your wedding if you like the tanned look.

1–2 Days Before

 

Get a body polish to gently exfoliate your skin. It gives brides that “glowing look”.

 

If you have nail enhancements, get a fill. If you have natural nails, get a manicure.

Receive a spa pedicure. Many brides opt for French polish on their toes to finish off their overall bridal look.

Day of

 

Receive your hair and make-up services. It is recommended that these be the only services you receive on your actual wedding day.

 

If you have any questions on finding a bridal beauty team feel free to message me. There are tons of great artists in the Dayton area!!

Puttin’ on the Ritz at Opera Ball 2012

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(submitted by the Opera Guild of Dayton)

You heard about it, didn’t you? You know ─ Tom (Bankston that is) and a few hundred of his closest friends from Opera Guild of Dayton are meeting at Dayton Country Club (DCC) on Saturday, March 3, at 6:30 p.m. They’re Puttin’ on the Ritz at Opera Ball 2012. They’ve got The Tom Daugherty Orchestra coming. Do they ever play the tunes! How about the Charleston or maybe some swing? There’ll be lots more to keep your feet tappin’.

Now I hear that the food at DCC is pretty terrific. They won’t be serving bathtub gin, just the good stuff. Don your glad rags ─ that’s your black tie attire and some bling. How about a bow tie and a top hat or some long pearls? Feathers and boas? Sure.

And for the auctions, the prizes are the “bee’s knees.” How about a week at Big Sky, Montana, or Winter Park, Colorado? Also, there’s a glamorous trip to New York City to dine at the 21 Club with a hotel stay at the incomparable The Lowell on the Upper East Side. Try for the Segway tour of Woodland Cemetery or tickets to the opera. Dining certificates are available at some hotsy, totsy restaurants. Pamper yourself at a spa. And they’ve got luscious wine baskets, art glass and lots more.

Call 937/434-8236 and ask for Sam. She has all the details. She’ll make sure that your reservation is set.  That new fangled Web has information too at OperaGuildOfDayton.org. Now all this partying helps the Opera Guild support Dayton Opera productions and keeps their educational endeavors with the schools in swell shape. And those high school and college vocal competition winners need the Guild’s dough too.

Be there for a roarin’ good time Puttin’ on the Ritz!

Celebrate Spring at March First Friday

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Complementary chocolate is served to visitors during December 2011's First Friday at Peace on Fifth. The shop will offer fair trade chocolates to visitors again March 2.

Explore downtown Dayton during the next free First Friday art hop, held from 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, March 2, with activities for all to enjoy.

This month’s First Friday will feature a variety of live music, shopping opportunities and gallery openings.  As the weather warms up, many downtown shops will feature sales on winter items. Roving musicians and entertainers will perform in downtown’s public spaces for visitors to watch and enjoy, and many businesses will offer specials to First Friday visitors.

Explore your artistic side

First Friday gives downtown visitors an opportunity to explore numerous art exhibit openings. Check out the Dayton Visual Arts Center’s opening at 118 N. Jefferson St. from 5 to 8 p.m. “The Cline Show: An All-Area University Exhibit,” will feature works in all types of media and showcase art by more than 20 local students from Wright State University, the University of Dayton and Sinclair Community College. Mike Elsass will premiere new works of art at his gallery, Color of Energy, 16 Brown St., and works of art by students from St. Luke’s Elementary will be displayed at K12 Gallery for Young People, 510 E. Third St.

Making their First Friday debut, the Dayton Society of Painters and Sculptors, 48 High St., will highlight artists from the Dayton Printmakers Cooperative for the DSPS’ seventh annual Printmakers Show. Featuring printmaking demos and refreshments, the DSPS will be open from 5 to 8 p.m.

The Cannery Art and Design Center, 434 E. Third St., will show work by Springboro calligrapher Ann Bain in celebration of her 80th birthday. The exhibit, “Exuberance,” will showcase a variety of 2D and 3D pieces. Press, 257 Wayne Ave., will feature work by local artists Glen Clark, Craig Tirey, Erich Reith and Amanda Barb

osa. Stop by H. David Clay Studio, 33 S. St. Clair St., to check out functional and decorative pottery made on site. Gallery 510 Fine Art, 510 E. Fifth St., will showcase a variety of work created by local artists for sale, including jewelry, quilts, scarves and ceramics.

The Record Gallery will broadcast Rev. Cool's show, "Around the Fringe," on 91.3 WYSO-FM during this month's First Friday.

Get your groove on

First Friday offers a variety of ways to get your live music fix, whether you’re in the mood to rock out or kick back to some lighter tunes. Canal Street Tavern, 308 E. First St., will host a CD release party for local band BJSR featuring Ape the Ghost, Young Heirlooms and Lauren Eylise. The Ohio Coffee Company, 46 W. Fifth St., will feature Sara and Mic Riley playing “A Sweet Sound” beginning at 7 p.m. This event has no cover and the coffee bar and kitchen will be open. At De’Lish Café, 139 N. Main St., “Feel Good Fridays” will be in full swing from 6 to 8 p.m., with top-shelf drink specials in the De’Lish lounge, and live jazz by the Wade Baker Quartet from 9 p.m. to midnight.

If you prefer something more classical, the Dayton Philharmonic will perform “Bartók’s Musical Tapestry,” inspired by the work of Hungarian pianist and composer Béla Bartók at the Schuster Center, 1 W. Second St.

Oregon Arts District venues will a variety of musical opportunities. Blind Bob’s, 430 E. Fifth St., will have live music beginning at 9:30 p.m., featuring New Vega, Grenades!? and other artists. Puzzle of Light will play beginning at 9 p.m. at Jay’s Seafood, 225 E. Sixth St.  Omega Music, 318 E. Fifth St., will feature Moon High and M. Ross Perkins beginning at 6 p.m. At Trolley Stop, 530 E. Fifth St., Sarah Beck and Jessica Campbell will take the stage at 9:30 p.m.

Entertainment from shows to skating

Local musicians Moon High and M. Ross Perkins will take the stage at Omega Music in the Oregon Arts Distrct starting at 6 p.m. on First Friday.

If you’d like to explore downtown on your bicycle, check out Don Crawford Plaza in front of Fifth Third Field, 220 N. Patterson Blvd., where the monthly Courteous Mass Ride will meet at 5:15 p.m. for a ride through the city. For athletic enthusiasts, the climbing gym Urban Krag, 125 Clay St., will be open until 11 p.m. The RiverScape MetroParks Ice Rink, , 111 E. Monument Ave, will host a Wild West Skate from 7 to 10 p.m., featuring a DJ playing a variety of country and western music. Admission is $5, which includes skate rental.

First Friday is a way to discover some of the theater and performance options downtown. The Human Race Theatre Company presents the world premiere of “Tenderly,” a musical about the life of renowned singer and actress Rosemary Clooney, at the Victoria Theatre, 138 N. Main St. If you’re in the mood for a laugh, John Evens will perform at Wiley’s Comedy Niteclub, 101 Pine St., at 9 p.m.; tickets are $12. The Neon, 130 E. Fifth St., shows a variety of new releases and independent movies. Call 222-SHOW (7469) for films and show times.

Shop the winter sales

Getting a fashion fix is easy to do downtown. Amore!, 16 Brown St., will premiere new spring items and offer 50 percent off select winter fashions. Munch on Japanese snacks at the sushi and sake shopping party Clash Consignments, 113 E. Third St., with sushi provided by Fusian. The party will feature local DJ The Snark and a storewide sale on winter items until 10 p.m. Basho Apparel, 521 E. Fifth St., will have a featured print design on baby clothes by local artist Janell Barker of Press.

The Oregon Arts District features several stores that offer unique gifts, art and furniture. Shop for vintage and one-of-a-kind furniture, housewares, art and more at Jimmy Modern, 605 E. Fifth St. Peace on Fifth, 519 E. Fifth St., a slave-free and eco-friendly gift shop, will be serving free fair-trade chocolate. The Record Gallery, 16 Brown St., will broadcast Rev. Cool’s “Around the Fringe” show on 91.3 WYSO-FM for visitors shopping their vast record selection. ReCreate, 438 E. Fifth St., has new and used instruments, other music-related items and original artwork.

In addition, staff from the day spa Beaute Box, located at 116 W. Fifth St., will be on the go on the streets of the Oregon Arts District raffling prizes.

Work up an appetite

In addition to its art gallery space, Gallery 510 Fine Art also will showcase a collection of jewelry, scarves, ceramics and other art created by local artists for sale.

After wandering the streets of downtown, check out the dinner and drink specials offered on First Friday. Boulevard Haus, 328 E. Fifth St., features $1 off tap beer for those who mention First Friday. At Deaf Monty’s Wine, 22 Brown St., it’s only $5 for a 6-ounce glass of red or white wine. Dublin Pub, 300 Wayne Ave., has no cover and 20 percent off all food during First Friday. Lucky’s Taproom and Eatery, 520 E. Fifth St., will feature dinner specials, along with the special tapping of a firkin of New Holland Poet, an oatmeal stout. Olive, an urban dive, 416 E. Third St., will have several dinner specials until 11 p.m., in addition to broadcasting Rev. Cool’s “Around the Fringe” show on 91.3 WYSO-FM. Oregon Express, 336 E. Fifth St., has half-price pizza from 4 to 8 p.m. and live music at 9:30 p.m.

First Friday is presented by the Downtown Dayton Partnership with support from the Oregon District Business Association and WYSO-FM 91.3. The Downtown Dayton Partnership’s website has a complete list of downtown’s arts and cultural amenities, as well as a dining guide, parking map and much more.

Lash Envy? The Good the Bad and the Nail Glue?

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It has come to my attention in recent weeks that there is a growing problem with legitiment eyelash extensions. You may have read one of my earlier columns on lashes and what to look for when thinking about getting them. After talking with several girls recently and hearing numerous stories from other salon professionals I felt like this was something people needed to know about. Before I begin with the horror stories here is my number one advice to you when even thinking about getting extensions, make sure the person doing your lashes is licensed and trained in lash extensions. You not only have to be a board certified aethescian or cosmotologist but you also have to have outside training from lash line you are using.

When it comes down to it most of us would love to have eyelash extensions, however, the price is a concern for most people. Enter in the “nail spa” where things always seem to be cheaper somehow. I recently heard a story from a woman who went to a nail spa in Centerville that was supposebly doing extensions. They offered her a great and much cheaper price than leading salons in the area so she said yes. She had the extensions applied and within 24hrs she was begging to have them taken off. She quoted, “they burned and were painful” luckily the place took them off and she headed to Enhance Spa and Lash Studio. Angi Wolfe, an award winning Xtreme Lash professional was able to get some real extensions on the client but stated that lashes were definitly compromised and would need time to grow back in. This is just one of the stories that we are hearing every week . I have had model clients who have told me they went to nail spas and they attached lashes with nail glue!! This is absolutly terrifying. To put things in perspective for those readers who have not had extensions, when done correctly you do not have any pain or burning in fact you cant even feel them. These are just a couple of the stories that have been going around. I have also heard of people working out of their homes and not being certified but charging far less to attract customers. One woman who went to such a place stated “the woman worked out of her home not the flashy ad she had on the internet of a beautiful spa” she went on to say ” the woman who applied the lashes said she had just learned in the last month from a friend” The result, “the lashes were clumped together and uncomfortable. Some were even turned around a poking in my eye” Another woman who went to an uncertified technician complained that when she washed her face all the lashes fell out along with many of her own.

So what happens when you do get extensions from a real place? I can tell from my personal experience that I go every two weeks to get mine filled. The initial set took about two hours and the fills usually take 45min to an hour depending on how much I am shedding. It is a spa atmosphere, there is a comfy bed and a warm neck pillow and I lay there nearly falling asleep. I have never experienced any type of pain when getting my lashes done and I have never lost an excessive amount of my own lashes. In fact my lashes have grown in thicker from not wearing so much mascara. I constantly get compliments on my lashes and people cannot believe they are not mine. What can you expect when you get lash extensions? You will arrive and meet with your lash artist he or she will go over all the details of your lashes and find out whether or not you are a good candidate for them. They will discuss the proper way to care for them and how they are applied. Once you both have decided that they are a good match for you, you will lay down and have undereye patches placed under your eyes. This is so that the artist can see your lashes more easily. Then they will begin placing lash extensions on your own lashes with tweezers with a medical grade glue. (see why you dont want just anyone doing them?) Many lash artists will use magnifying lenses to get a closer and better view of each individual lash. All in all its relaxing and you sit up with beautiful lashes! There is no pain, no sticky glue mess and no lashes poking you in the eye. You can wash your face, go swimming, wear mascara and even cry (within reason lol and still have fabulous lashes. Now that is not to say that they wont fall out. The extensions fall out naturally with your own lashes so there are things that will make them come out faster. For example if you are an “eye rubber” an overzealous fashwasher, or excessive sweater and or cryer these are things that make your own lashes come out faster. As long as you take care to be gentle with them and brush them once or twice a day you will be good to go with fabulous lashes in tow.

What should you look for when deciding to try lash extensions? First and formost the technician must be certified, not only by the state but also by the lash company. Xtreme lashes is the most popular brand and the one I personally wear. You can go on their website and find certified technicians in your area. Be sure and ask questions and find out how long the person has been applying the lashes dont let just anyone get near your lashes! Finally dont be attracted to cheaper pricing, Xtreme lashes set a standard that salons cannot price under so if you are seeing a cheaper price they are not Xtreme lashes. You can expect to pay around 200.00 for your first set and then around 50.00 for your refills. Look around at certified spas and see what they are charging dont be fooled by false advertising. If you have any questions or concerns regarding lashes or if you think you would like to have some of your own please contact Angi Wolfe at 937-748-7294 you can also visit her site at http://www.enhancespaandlashstudio.com/

 

Boxing in Dayton – From Past History to Present “Knockout”

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On Saturday Night (February 25, 2012), 17 brave locals will enter the ring at historic Memorial Hall in Downtown Dayton to show the boxing skills they’ve learned over the past several weeks, months and even years of training at Drake’s Downtown Gym in the first Dayton Knockout V.I.P. Fight Night!  This highly-anticipated event is presented by AIDS Resource Center Ohio and Dayton History (in collaboration with Drake’s Downtown Gym) with proceeds benefiting these two excellent organizations.  Knockout Tickets are $15 advance/$20 door for General Admission, with limited $25 advance tickets available that include three drink tickets and admission to the Speakeasy Lounge AfterParty featuring Funky G and the Groove Machine.

Knockout V.I.P Fight Night is the first event in the Memorial Hall Theatre since Bill Cosby appeared there in 2001, and an opportunity for Daytonians to revisit the venue in which many big acts have performed over the past decades – not to mention some big boxing events in the early 1900’s.  Continue reading for an interesting look back at Dayton’s boxing legacy, and at the end of this article – a chance to win tickets for the Knockout V.I.P. Fight Night…

Dayton Is Far From Being Down For The Count


A Brief History Of Boxing In Dayton – By J.T. Ryder 

 

 Imagine yourself ascending the wide limestone steps of Memorial Hall in the early to mid 1900’s, with its godlike statuary flanking you and its French Renaissance façade looming before you. It would be easy to be timelessly transported to another era, one of arenas and sporting grounds strewn with the blood and sweat of athletic champions. Even through the thick, stone walls of the hall, you hear the pulsating roar of the crowd that has gathered here to witness yet another pugilistic match between two worthy contenders, a spectacle of violence that sways between splendor and civilized chaos.

As you enter the hall, the haziness of the cigarette and cigar smoke, coupled with the heat of the crowd, drifts through the glare of the primitive klieg lights, giving the hall a cavernous appearance, like a misty vision of Valhalla. The sounds of brutality and bloodshed echo and rebound off the shadowed walls. A sea of boaters, bowlers and fedoras move in an undulating wave as the staccato voice of the bout’s announcer breathlessly shouts out each blow in a stridently clipped voice. Spectators clench betting slips in their hands and cigars between their teeth as they bark out encouragement for their champion and profane epithets towards his challenger. Close up, the ring reveals two opponents, locked in a ballet of darting evasions and devastating blows. These two gloved gladiators are continually caught in the sharply contrasting light of the popping flashbulbs of the eager press’ phalanx Graflex, the photographer’s jockeying for a better position, chronicling the sportsmanlike spilling of blood and hoping to capture either the triumph of the reigning champ or the rise of a new title holder, imprisoning the moment in emulsion.

Gene Tunney & Jack Dempsey at Memorial Hall

There was a time when Daytonwas a Mecca for boxing. There were countless gyms focused on boxing that dotted the city. Individual boxing clubs sprouted up, creating cross town rivalries that defended their honor in the various rings and exhibitions throughout the city. The Dayton Gym Club loomed large within the local and national boxing community. In 1950, it was voted as one of the best fight clubs in the nation and was home to several of the local Golden Gloves teams. From the late 1890’s, nearly two dozen world champions fought at the gym and the World Welterweight title changed hands there when Honey Melody was knocked out in 15 rounds by Frank Mantell, November 1, 1907. Westwood Field was another location that saw it’s share of international boxing stars. On June 25th, 1917, Jack Britton lost his welterweight title to Kid Lewis and later on, in 1918, Jack Dempsey knocked out Terry Keller in five rounds at Westwood.

“Jones failed to display half the ability expected and many fans were highly disappointed with the showing of the Gorilla. The fight was really saved by the constant driving-in tactics of Williams who won seven on the twelve rounds, three being even, Gorilla taking the others.”– Wire Report from Dayton

Until the seating was elevated in the 1940’s, Memorial Hall was the premier site for the local boxing scene. On April 22nd, 1935, Joe Louis knocked out Biff Bennett during an exhibition match at Memorial Hall. During a fight with favored boxer Gorilla Jones on April 22nd, 1930 Tiger Roy Williams won in a twelve round decision at Memorial Hall. Many other boxer fought within the walls of Memorial Hall, including Manuel Castro, Jimmy Kelly, Danny Budd, Joe Glick, Mike Ballerino…the list goes on and on.

The city also spawned some national and international luminaries of the boxing world, including Joe Sekyra, the once top rated light-heavyweight and heavyweight boxer who later went on to train a Dayton Golden Gloves team. There was also the lightweight journeyman Eddie Brandt, who was also the former president of Old Time Boxers’ Club of Dayton. Sugar Costner, who was once the top ranked welterweight, beat Kid Gavilan and Ike Williams before losing to Jake LaMotta and Sugar Ray Robinson. Charles “Buddy” Knox was a heavyweight contender who also trained a Dayton Golden Gloves team. There was also world ranked featherweight Joe Marinelli who defeated two former world champs, Jimmy Perrin and Joey Archibald at Memorial Hall.

Chris Pearson

There are also some very well known boxers from the Dayton area (omitting Buster Douglas’ brief stay here in 1979 while he attended Sinclair Community College). First, there is Chris Pearson, who is actually from Trotwood, but close enough to be counted. Pearson has been labeled by many boxing aficionados as one of the best upcoming middleweight boxers and the one to watch. This south-paw has been a U.S. National Amateur Middleweight Champion gold medalist, a 2-time Silver Gloves Champ, a 4-time Jr. Golden Gloves Champ, an 8-time State Fair Champ, a Jr. Olympic Bronze Medalist, the Ringside World Champion and the National PAL Champion as well as the 2009 Police Athletic League national champion. In his short, burgeoning career, he has beaten four former Olympians (including Brazil’s Yamaguichi Florentino, a veteran of 151 fights) and Bakhyt Sarsekbayev of Kazakhstan, who was the 2008 Beijing Games welterweight gold medalist.

There is also Michael Evans, born July 22nd, 1977 and raised part of the time at his grandma’s apartment in Dayton’s Arlington Court housing project. Through a childhood altercation that led to fisticuffs, Evans got noticed and groomed by the local boxing community. He went on to become a national Police Athletic League champion, held two Junior Olympic titles, won a bronze medal at the Goodwill Games before going on to become the 2005 Golden Gloves champion. This led to him becoming a captain of the Team USA boxing squad, fighting bouts in China, Hungary, Ireland, England (including his sell out event against British Olympian Amir Khan at Liverpool’s famed Olympia ballroom), Japan, Thailand, Germany and all across America, including Madison Square Garden. Shortly before he was to lead Team USA into Russia, Evans was busted for selling crack cocaine to an undercover officer, drawing himself a four year stint at London Correctional Institute.

Next – Dayton native Ron Lyle. Continue reading…

Pop-Up Project Seeking Business Owners to Open Downtown

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Guests at Beaute Box, one of the businesses that opened downtown as part of the first phase of the Pop-Up Project.

Guests at Beaute Box, one of the businesses that opened downtown as part of the first phase of the Pop-Up Project.

Activated Spaces, an initiative to fill downtown storefronts, is accepting applications for temporary retail and service businesses to open downtown as part of the second phase of its Pop-up Project. The project matches business owners and entrepreneurs who want to try out a business concept with downtown property owners who have first-floor storefront space available for occupancy.

Interested retailers should fill out an application, which can be downloaded at www.activatedspaces.org, and email it to Sherri Wierzba at [email protected]. The application deadline is 5 p.m. on Friday, March 9. Tenants will be selected March 30, and retailers must be ready to open by May 1.

Lease lengths will range from three to six months. The spaces will have varying lease rates, but will be leased below market value. Activated Spaces volunteers will connect retailers with commercial property owners, help make the space move-in ready, and promote the business during such events as First Friday and Urban Nights. Selected businesses will negotiate leasing terms directly with the selected property owner, but flexibility for the tenant is a priority.

Activated Spaces volunteers hope to build on the success of the Pop-Up Project’s pilot phase, when three businesses filled 2,300 square feet of space. Two of those businesses ― Beaute Box, 116 W. Fifth St., and Peace on Fifth, 519 E. Fifth St. ― are looking to convert their temporary leases into traditional long-term ones. Another business, Basho Screen Printing and Apparel, opened a second area location at 521-523 E. Fifth St. after being drawn to the space when it was occupied by Comfort & Joy, which offered holiday gifts, during the Pop-Up Project’s pilot.

Commercial property owners interested in offering space to interested retailers should contact Sherri Wierzba or Erin Gillespie at 937-224-1518. Participating property owners will be listed on the Activated Spaces website. Once a match is made, a limited amount of money is available to be distributed in $250 increments at the discretion of the Activated Spaces team for such purposes as offsetting utility costs, making cosmetic improvements to the space or other necessities for making the space operational.

The grand opening celebration of Pop-Up Shop Peace on Fifth.

The grand opening celebration of Pop-Up Shop Peace on Fifth.

Activated Spaces, a volunteer-led initiative spearheaded by young professional organizations Generation Dayton and updayton, has three main goals:

• reactivate and beautify vacant storefronts with creative displays

• encourage entrepreneurs, artists and community groups to occupy space for short- and long- term uses

• showcase downtown properties and increase interest and investment in available space

Activated Spaces is part of the Greater Downtown Dayton Plan, a strategic blueprint for the future of downtown. Those interested in volunteering with Activated Spaces should e-mail [email protected].

For more information, contact Sherri Wierzba or Erin Gillespie at 937-224-1518.

Mike-Sell’s: A Case For Success

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Countdown to the 2012 updayton Summit! updayton is committed to lighting the entrepreneurial fire of young talent. Over the next three months leading up to the 2012 Summit, updayton will present stories of emerging entrepreneurs and family legacies in business, and why they call Dayton the best place to do business.

Daniel W. Mikesell started a successful business selling dried beef and sausage but when he decided to expand and answered an ad to purchase a potato-cutting machine, he had no idea it would turn into a multi-million dollar enterprise that would span 100 years and counting. Today, Mike-Sell’s, a locally based, privately owned company, has maintained a strong local presence and national distribution in the snack industry. Despite the efforts of large snack companies to dominate the market through buyouts and price slashing, Mike-Sell’s has remained true to its commitment of producing the highest-quality products, allowing it to continue to be a competitive player in the industry.

In the true spirit of a Dayton original, Mikesell maintained his company’s headquarters in Dayton, Ohio as it grew. His legacy has continued with great grandson, Luke Mapp, grandson of Mikesell’s daughter, Mary Mikesell, and her husband Les Mapp, who ran the company until his death in 2005.

The family’s potato chip legacy is now in the hands of a team of industry professionals including President and CEO, David R. Ray and Mapp, who serves as the company’s Director of Marketing.

In a recent interview with Luke Mapp he shares his take on why the family business has survived the recession, the company’s plans for the future, and what today’s entrepreneurs should do to be successful—particularly those wishing to enter the snack industry.

Mapp has been part of the family business for more than a decade. He knows the entire operation from top to bottom. He is also acutely aware of the tremendous competition Mike-Sell’s is up against as one of the few regional potato chip companies that is independent from larger snack suppliers.

“The locals are very loyal to Mike-Sell’s and have been a big part of our success…”

“For many years, every little city across America had it’s own independently owned potato chip companies. Today, we remain with fewer than probably 50 others.” Mapp continued, “Giants like Frito Lay and Wal-Mart have affected how we do business. Frito Lay can offer lower prices that push margins to almost nothing, and Wal-Mart has changed how grocery chains buy product with its centralized buying method. The local retail manager used to have control over what his or her store carried, but now all of those decisions are made at the corporate level. Our relationships have changed tremendously and we’ve had to change our approach.”

The disconnect between local grocery stores and the supplier has made it difficult for Mike-Sell’s to expand at their desired level. On the flip side, it has moved Mike-Sell’s to alter the way it does business and distribute its products. Currently, the company sells two-dozen different chip and snack products. It has distribution centers in Dayton and Columbus, Ohio and Indianapolis, Indiana. The Dayton location is the company’s only manufacturing plant. Along with some cost-cutting measures, this is how Mike-Sell’s has survived through the current and past recessions.

“We have had to cut expenses like everyone else. Fortunately, we have a family-like atmosphere here. Everyone here is very supportive of decisions that have to be made.” As Mapp led a guided behind-the-scenes tour, he stopped along the way to chat with staff and to sample freshly made chips that had rolled off the line into the collection area to be seasoned and packaged.

At the end of the tour, Mapp talked about the company’s plans for the future. Over the years, the company has maintained its foothold in the industry by introducing new products like Honey Barbecue, its highest selling flavor and Groovy Chips, its highest selling non-flavored chip. They also added Kettle Chips to their line and are always considering new products to test with their loyal fans.

“The locals are very loyal to Mike-Sell’s and have been a big part of our success. Going forward the company will look to expand its distribution base nationally and increase its marketing efforts,” Mapp said, speaking optimistically about the future despite the sluggish economy. For example, Mike-Sell’s has begun implementing a new web-based strategy with a Super Bowl promotion offering 15% off online orders.

Luke Mapp

As the conversation came to an end, Mapp offered advice for entrepreneurs entering the snack foods market. “Do your homework. Know your audience. And think niche. Penetrating the snack market on a large scale will be nearly impossible. Instead, build a strong local following and let the retailers come to you. Be prepared to work hard. It takes dedication and perseverance to run any business. It’s not for the faint of heart.”

In a follow-up correspondence, this is what Mapp had to say about Dayton:  “Like, Mike-sell’s, Dayton has a rich history that has made it a successful and nurturing environment for businesses to grow. Dayton is full of reliable and talented people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty and work hard—that’s important to any business. In addition, the Dayton area chamber of commerce and various other business friendly organizations work very hard to attract and retain local businesses and talented people to live, work and stay in Dayton, OH.”

Interesting facts about Mike-Sell’s:

A potato by another name is still a potato, sorta. It takes a lot of potatoes to make those tasty chips—but not just any potato. Mike-Sell’s uses chipping potatoes. These organically grown potatoes are purchased from Florida to Michigan. (Yes, Michigan! Not Idaho, which specializes in baking potatoes.) Most potato chip manufacturers use chipping potatoes because of their round shape and density, which withstands the cutting process.

Waste not; want not. “Recycle, reuse and repurpose” has been the standard at Mike-Sell’s for decades. They do everything from giving potato peels to pig farmers for feed to selling the potato starch to paper mills for paper coating. Mike-Sell’s uses every opportunity to be an environmentally friendly company.

Hands off. The potato’s journey from the truck to the bag is, for the most part, a hands-off venture. Modern technology and machinery allow potatoes to be cleaned, peeled, cut, fried, seasoned, bagged and boxed with little human intervention. This method decreases food contamination and safety issues with workers.

The Big Give Back. Mike-Sell’s has given millions of dollars to support women’s causes, education, and community arts. Mike-Sell’s giving program is overseen by Mikesell’s granddaughter,  Martha Mapp.  Some of those organizations include Clothes That Work, a clothing resource for job seekers, and the Linda Vista Project, a transitional housing program for homeless women and their children.

Nominate a Daytonian Who’s Preserving History

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The Woman’s Club of Dayton Foundation, The Engineers Club of Dayton Foundation and the Friends of the Dayton Arcade are currently accepting applications for the Third Annual Jewels of the Gem City Awards. The awards honor those who have made a significant contribution to the historic preservation of Dayton through educational, financial, cultural, promotional or restoration contributions.  Nominee for the “Jewels of the Gem City” may be an individual/couple, a company/corporation or an organization that has made a significant contribution to the historic preservation of Dayton through educational,
financial, cultural, promotional or restoration contributions.  Nominations forms are available online or at the Dayton Metro Library, the Dayton Woman’s Club or the Engineers Club and are due Feb 1, 2012.

Winners in 2011 were included the American Veterans Heritage Center, Margaret Kruckemeyer, Curt Dalton and Wright-Dunbar, Inc. This years winners will be celebrated at the  Gala dinner awards ceremony will be on Saturday June 2, 2012 at the Dayton Woman’s Club.  For more information contact Susan Wheeler at 461-9921.

The Partnership of Arts, YPs and Rock and Roll

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What do you get when you pair a Pink Floyd rock tribute with the Philharmonic? Or a couple fun-lovin’ DPO Board members with two local YPs groups? Or great food and a backstage tour? Or prizes, a live radio broadcast and crazy discounted tickets?

Lest you think this is the beginning of a REALLY complicated joke, I’m here to tell you – it’s Encore Night at the Dayton Philharmonic!

On Thursday, February 9, make a night of it with fellow young professionals!

5:30PM – Start the night at Uno’s Downtown where there will be complimentary appetizers, cash bar, prizes, and on-air “audio tweets” during a live radio remote with WTUE’s Aaron Klauber. Last prize is raffled off at 6:45 PM (must be present to win) when we cash out and the group heads across the street because…

7:15PM – We’re heading BACKSTAGE at the Schuster Center for a special tour and briefing hosted by Brent Havens (Windborne Conductor).

8:00PM – Get to your awesome seats specially reserved in the loge to hear what happens when progressive rock meets classical orchestra. The program features the music of Pink Floyd performed by the amazing Windborne Music backed by the full DPO!

This is a special night (with a crazy great discounted price) specifically to introduce YPs to the great time that is the Dayton arts scene and the Dayton Philharmonic. Tickets are only $30  – that’s more than 1/2 off plus they are actually waiving the $4 processing fee. You MUST order your tickets through the special link below or call Madea Thompson at 937-228-7591 x3222. This deal is only good through February 4th – after that the seats will be released and sold for the face value of $66 (plus that service charge). Don’t miss out!

**This event is NOT limited to previous participants of Generation Dayton or JumpstART – all local YPs are encouraged to attend.**

PURCHASE SPECIAL OFFER ONLINE:
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Event hosted by jumpstART & DPO Trustees Lauren Hamer & Maha Kashani

Location, Location, Location… Workshop!

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No – this isn’t one of Teri’s articles about the housing market. Location is more than a real estate rule; it’s vital for film!

Are you interested in building your skill set for film? Are you an artist looking for a new perspective on architecture and environmental photography? FilmDayton offers a great class for beginners who are looking to break into the industry, photographers who are looking for a new perspective, or pros who want to strengthen their skill set.

In the beautiful setting of the Dayton Art Institute, students will get some practical knowledge and then be set loose to snap pictures (no flash) within the building and through the historic surrounding neighborhood. Great prep work for aspiring production/location coordinators and a lot of fun for creative photographers. Seats are limited, so early registration is encouraged.

We’ll provide an inside look at one of the major necessities for the film industry. There are so many questions: What makes a good location? How do you handle the production logistics? How do you snap the best picture to convey the feel of the location to the producer? And once you find that perfect spot, how do you get all the required permissions to film there? This workshop will answer those questions and so much more! And lest you think this workshop is JUST for photographers or aspiring location managers, oh no my friend. Indie filmmakers often have trouble getting great locations for their projects. This workshop will help filmmakers with the skills needed to find and secure fantastic locations, and how to get it all done when resources are limited.

Topics to be covered include:
Location Contracts and Insurance,
Film Permits,
Capturing the Best Picture,
Working with Individual Homeowners, Businesses and Government Agencies,
Location Scouting,
Location Responsibilities Before, During and After the Shoot

FilmDayton welcomes Kate Amer – a Location Manager / Production Manager with 25+ years of experience. Kate most recently worked on The Avengers, Journey 2: The Mysterious Island, and the FX hit Justified.

Talented location scouts are necessary in the industry – and very in demand. This workshop will get you started and help you make some great connections.

COST: $35 members; $45 non-members
DATE: Saturday, February 25, 2012
TIME: 9AM – 5PM (lunch included)
LOCATION: Dayton Art Institute
Seats are limited. Contact Megan at [email protected] to register.

Workshop in partnership with the Dayton Art Institute.

WHAT IS FILMDAYTON?

FilmDayton is the regional nonprofit dedicated to fostering the local film scene. We educate filmmakers with introductory workshops and professional development opportunities, advocate for the region as we support our local filmmakers and work to attract productions, and celebrate our success with the annual FilmDayton Festival (August 24-26, 2012).

2011 Best of the Best Beauty Product Winners

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When I sat down to complile the list for this I figured out that I could go on forever. I tried to narrow it down to the things that we use everyday. Most of my product favorites are affordable for the everyday woman and can be found locally at the drugstore, Sephora or Ulta. I love products so much that choosing favorites is never easy for me. Clients ask me daily what my favorites are and I always get that blank look on my face. Like a kid trying to choose her favorite stuffed animal I want to say I love them all but with anything there must be favorites….and here are my winner for 2011.

MAKEUP:

    • Lipstick: Chanel. All of Chanel lipstick formulations are incredible. Their colors are neutral, and classic. If you are looking for the perfect red lipstick you can’t go wrong.
    • Lipgloss: MAC Lipglass: I know everyone loves it but how can you not? It’s the perfect combination of gloss and color
    • Lip Pencils: Smashbox The Nude Lip Pencils: they glide on and go with everything!
    • Lip Balm: LUSH Mint Julips:Use the LUSH lip scrub before applying this gives your lips an instant makeover. You can also use it on cuticles as an added bonus and the flavor takes me right to Derby Day!
    • Cheek Stain: Benetint by Benefit: This stain gives an amazing (and insanely long lasting) flush to the cheeks. Sexy and Sultry perfection!
    • Powder Blush:Tarte Amazonian Clay Blushes:Highly pigmented, large pans, and bright sexy colors.  Blissful, Adorned, and Dollface are three favs….but honestly, they are all perfect.
    • Luminizer:NARS Illuminator: You can wear this light weight formula alone or with your regular makeup to give you an instant glow. I use this on the top of cheekbones, browbones, and the cupids bow right above the lip.
    • Eyeshadow: Dior 5 Color Eyeshadow: this was a tough decision since I am a huge fan of the “Naked” eyeshadows but in the end I had to choose the Dior. No matter which one you choose you can not go wrong with the perfectly pigmented shades.
    • Mascara: Dior Blackout: My favorite mascara ever! The color is rich, and thickens up your lashes to fake proportions and best all it actually washes off when you need it to!
    • Eye Liner: Lancome Artliners:I have the entire line of these liners for my professional kit.  The longevity is superb and they are actually shaped like a felt tipped pen which makes it super easy to apply.
    • Shadow Primer: Clinique Touchbase:I have tried every primer out there but this one that I discover in high school never creases on me and keeps my eyeshadows where they belong. Brightens up the eyes and can be used as nude eyeshadow as well.
    • Brows: Anastasia the Kit for Perfect Brows: This kit is all-in-one perfection. It has everything you need to shape, brighten, color and enhance your brows. Plus it comes in a super cute case.
    • Foundation: SmashBox High Definition:If you want flawless skin in a bottle look no further! Not only does it give you the perfect complexion but it wears up to 16 hours.
    •  Bronzers/Luminizer: SmashBox Fusion Soft Lights: This was one of my favorite finds of 2011!  I have always struggled to find a bronzer that would work for even the palest complexions and this was finally the one! I love this as a blush by itself or all over for an instant beachy glow.
    • Primers: Laura Geller Illuminating Spackle: Don’t let the name scare you. This is a soft focus filter, moisturizing, and glow enhancing potion.  So soft on the skin, and doubles as a light tinted moisturizer.
    • Concealers: Makeup Forever Camo Palette: You cant go wrong with this one. It covers you from you whitest days of winter to your beach glow in the summer. The bonus is it also comes with all the color correcting creams you need after a night out on the town.
    • Best Finishing Spray: Model In a Bottle:  Loved by models and makeup artists alike, this spray helps to keep your makeup in place under the harshest of conditions. I was a little hesitant when a fellow artist recommended it to me but now it is a staple that I don’t want to be without….EVER!

 

                                                                               SKIN CARE:

  • Body Wash: Aveda Rosemary Mint: Im not big on fragrance but I love how clean and soft this is. I can use it everyday and my skin never dries out.
  • Lotions: Bath and Body Work Cashmere: Not only is this a fantastic bargain, but it moisturizes the body like the richest of body butters. The best part is that it sinks into the skin quickly, without leaving a greasy residue.
  • Exfoliants: Dermatologica: This exfoliant saved my life after a serious sunburn. Made with rice powder it is super gentle and if used regularly can clear up some minor sun spots. Most exfoliants are too rough on my skin, but this is gentle yet effective.
  • Facial Cleansers: Loreal Gentle Cleanser: That’s right one of the best cleansers is also a bargain and it comes with a cute little scrubber pad. This takes off even the toughest of makeup, and waterproof mascara.  It is super hydrating, and leaves the skin clean without stripping the skins natural oils.
  • Toners: Prescriptives: This line has amazing skin care and although no longer in stores can be ordered online.
  • Moisturizers: Embryolisse: This is gold in a bottle. Perfect for all skin types (even acne prone), this cream helps with scars, uneven skin tone, and dry patches.  It instantly sinks into the skin, and is perfect for under makeup.
  • Eye Cream:  Crème de La Mer The Eye Balm: Nothing is better for making the eyes firmer, and more radiant.  This eye cream version of the cult moisturizer contains the magic broth, and makes even the most tired of eyes look awake.
  • Masks: Bliss Oxygen Mask:  I absolutely cannot be without this. I use it twice a week after exfoliating and it gives me an instant radiant glow. Honorable mention also goes to LUSH and any of there amazing all natural masks.
  • Sunscreen: Anything by Clarins.  Their sunscreens are the best on the market.
  • Self-Tanners: St. Tropez Bronzing Moose: Nothing compares. This is the only self tanner that I have tried on my pale skin that doesn’t turn me orange.  It gives a natural, brown, golden glow.  I always get compliments when I use this.  The application mitt also makes it easy to apply.

Do You Have A Flair For Design?

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RED – Reach, Empower, Dream of a World without HIV/AIDS – AIDS Resource Center Ohio presents the 2012 RED Table Design Gala – Oooh La ROUGE! – “A Magnifique Evening to help “ARC de TRIUMPH”.  To  be held Saturday, April 28, 2012, at the Roundhouse at The Montgomery County Fairgrounds, this biennial affair is the most anticipated and talked about gala in the entire Miami Valley.  Funds raised at this event  allow ARC Ohio to continue our prevention and education efforts, as well as providing  service to  thousands of Ohioans who are infected, affected, and at risk of HIV/AIDS.

The RED Table Design Gala highlights the talents, creativity and imagination of the area’s top designers.  This year, the gala will have 43 tables of ten all embracing a “French” flair as the unifying theme.  To pull this fabulous event off as we do every two years, ARC Ohio needs the help of inventive, original, clever and  over the top designers who are willing to volunteer their time and talents to produce a table for RED.  If you are interested please contact Lisa Grigsby, Special Events Director at ARC Ohio.

 

 

Home Values Up, Foreclosures Down, and What it Really Means for Dayton Real Estate

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This past week brought Dayton real estate into the national spotlight with some interesting news:

While home prices across the U.S. fell slightly in 2011, the Dayton metro area bucked the trend, posting the largest increase in home values among 50 major metros, according to a leading property valuation firm.

Median home prices rose 11.5 percent in the Dayton area to $72,000 last year, California-based ClearCapital reported Monday.

Local home prices appreciated nearly twice as fast as the next two strongest markets, and Dayton was the only metro to post a double-digit gain in home prices, according to the market report.

Before we break out the champagne and start singing Happy Days are Here Again, allow me to be the wet blanket. First things first, this report takes the entire Greater Dayton area into consideration, and as I say with every post, neighborhoods vary so what happens in Santa Clara is not what is happening in South Park which is not what is happening in Tara Estates or Carriage Trails. Okaythen, back to the news and what this means for us as a region. I think this means we are showing signs of some stabilization. We have likely reached the bottom and can now focus on stabilizing our real estate values as a region, although some neighborhoods are going to continue to be hollowed out with foreclosures, vacancies, and demolition. As I said last week, land banking and planned demolition will become a integral part of Dayton’s future for at least the next few years, but I think we can figure longer. I wish it were not so, but I’ve not seen any other way for cities to aggressively fight the combined problems of shrinking population and deteriorating and aging  housing stock. I also think that our first-tier suburbs like Huber Heights, Kettering, Trotwood, Riverside, should start developing plans to deal with some of these issues as well. Which brings us to our second bit of news:

Compared to 2010, the number of properties with foreclosure filings in Montgomery, Greene, Miami and Preble counties fell by about 31 percent to 6,131 last year, according to a RealtyTrac’s annual market report released today. On a month-to-month basis, the number dropped nearly 45 percent from November to 525 last month, RealtyTrac reported.

In Clark County, the number of properties with foreclosure filings fell 23 percent to 1,001 last year. In Champaign County, the number fell 71 percent to 74 properties. In Warren County, the number fell 18 percent to 1,481 properties in 2011.

By comparison, the number of properties in the state hit with default notices, auctions or bank repossessions declined 27 percent to 79,422 last year.

… But researchers were quick to point out that processing delays stemming from the so-called robosigning scandal, in which some big banks admitted processing foreclosures without verifying documents, stymied foreclosure activity across the country.

In other words, while we had a respite from mass foreclosure filings, we are still dealing with this mess and will be for a few years, even if it’s not at the levels seen in 2009. Again with the wet blanket: It’s an unpopular opinion, I’m aware, however, if you live next to a foreclosed home, it is in your best interest to keep an eye on the property. I realize it’s not your home, the banks might be the bad guys, etc. however, your property values are determined by the neighborhood and a buyer’s perception is affected by the neighboring properties. You do have an interest in how that property is maintained and cared for. It might not be your job, I get that, but it is your business. I digress…

Overall, these two pieces of news would indicate that the Greater Dayton area, which got slammed hard with foreclosures, declining home values, and shrinking population, appears to have hit the bottom, and the next few years should show continued signs of stabilization to the general area, if not the beginnings of recovery in real estate. Right then, cue-up some Gloria Gaynor for you oldtimers, maybe a little Destiny’s Child for the whippersnappers.

 

Photos: Teri Lussier

THE MADNESS STARTS HERE

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The Road to the Final Four begins in Dayton again this year with the NCAA Men’s First Four games on March 13th and 14th at the University of Dayton Arena. The Local Organizing Committee (LOC) charged with rallying community support for the games will begin promoting ticket sales during the first-half of the University of Dayton men’s home basketball game versus LaSalle, this Saturday, January 14, 7:00 pm at UD Arena.

To officially kick things off, informational announcements will take place at center-court, including the introduction of selected committee members and sponsors, key event partners, and an overview of community events, referred to as “The Big Hoopla.”  The announcement will include business, civic and local elected leaders, as well as supporters from the U.S. Air Force at Wright-Patterson AFB, representing Big Hoopla partners. The LOC plans to reinforce the important relationship between the Dayton community and the U.S. Air Force.

Don Donoher, legendary UD Men’s Basketball Coach will serve as an honorary spokesperson for this year’s event.  “We are honored to have someone of Coach Donoher’s stature join us in the community celebration of NCAA College Basketball,” said JP Nauseef, this year’s LOC Chair.

Updates on ticket sales and other events planned for this celebration also will be discussed. Tickets to get into the NCAA First Four games at UD Arena are going fast and some of the best seats have only limited availability at this point.

 

The NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament is one of the most widely watched, successful media spectacles in all of sports.  Last year, the NCAA expanded the field of participants and selected Dayton and UD Arena to host the inaugural NCAA First Four Games.  Because Dayton was successful in hosting the inaugural event, the NCAA selected UD arena to host again this year and next year (2012-2013).  Dayton has a strong track record hosting these events; in fact, the University of Dayton has hosted more NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament games than anywhere else in the Country, totaling 87 tournament games over the past 41 years, including the start of each championship since 2001.  Hosting this event provides Dayton Region with a tremendous economic development opportunity for national exposure.