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A Photographic Journey of Woodland Cemetary

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The 200-acre Woodland Cemetery and Arboretum in Dayton is one of the nation’s oldest “garden” cemeteries. Founded in 1840 by John Van Cleve (the Van Cleve family is one of Dayton’s “founding families”), this spacious, rolling area is the final resting place of many notable Daytonians including aviation pioneers Orville and Wilbur Wright, novelist and poet Paul L. Dunbar, columnist Erma Bombeck, inventor Charles Kettering, and John Patterson, the founder of National Cash Register.

Words don’t do this historic landmark justice.  So here are some pics:

Woodland Cemetary, located at 118 Woodland Avenue, Dayton, Ohio.

The Liberty Bell -- in Dayton?

Woodland has over 100,000 monuments.

James Ritty, inventor of the cash register, which he sold to John Patterson for $6,500.

Historic tours can be scheduled for visitors. Be prepared to walk uphill!

Living the good life...even in death.

I know Stroop Rd is in Kettering, but who was Stroop?

More striking memorials.

The Wright family plot.

Headstones of Orville, Wilbur and Katharine Wright.

The grave of Johnny Morehouse, a five-year-old boy who fell in the waters of the Miami & Erie Canal. Morehouse's dog jumped in the water, attempting to save him, but was too late.

Visitors to the Morehouse site leave toys and dolls.

Many of the trees at Woodland are more than 100 years old.

A beautiful angel.

A majestic monument watches over the resting souls.

The roads are suitable for walking or cycling

Grave site of Paul Laurence Dunbar. The tiny headstone is that of his sister Elizabeth, who died at age 2.

A 29,000 pound boulder marks the grave site of Erma Bombeck.

It’s a Different Kind of Summer Now

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University Hall

Where did ten weeks go? Oh that’s right, they went into writing papers, studying for tests and giving presentations. Another quarter is completed and it is time for summer. Summer doesn’t have the same traditional activities for college students as it used to. No more running in sprinklers and chasing down the ice cream truck, for some of us its time for graduation and off to the real world. For some of us it is time for a summer vacation, relaxing on a beach and sipping on margaritas. And for the rest of us, it might mean working or taking more classes. For some or most of the students at Wright State, our lives don’t change much from the rest of the year. We’ll continue to work, live in the same house or apartment, and go to class, whereas other students have to fight the complications of moving home with mom and dad, finding a job, and even finding things to do around the home town again.

I definitely find this an advantage to being a Wright State student, living locally, and having a secure job. I personally am not taking any summer classes this summer. I take 16 credit hours the other three quarters of the year and work part time. Summer is my freedom, it’s my time to travel and relax and save up that money for fall quarter’s books. But here are some summer plans of a few Wright State Students.

Lindsey Satterfield, Organizational Communications

“I plan on working at JC Penny to save up money, go to some music festivals, and travel to Florida to see my best friend. I also have signed up for one summer class to move things along.”

Joel Hangen, Management Information Systems major

“I’m just working full time this summer, have a couple trips planned to Canada and Vegas”

Nicole Anderson, Communication Studies

“This summer I have an internship, work and classes so I can graduate in March of 2011”

Alex Vanioukov, Business Management

“I work all summer unfortunately”

So it’s an array of plans for Wright State students this summer. We will be in and out of Dayton for the next three months. We’ll be working hard and saving that money for our schooling and of course, we’ll be soaking up the activities Dayton is offering this summer.

June 1: YP this Week

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With First Friday ending the week, there is a lot happening in Dayton.  Although this column highlights events specifically for YPs, I encourage you to check out all this weekend has to offer including First Friday , Paddle in the Park, or the kick-off to Pride Week.  We play well with others right?  It doesn’t HAVE to be all YP all the time.  But you have the DMM event calendar for additional events.  If you’re looking to socialize with the specifically under 40 crowd, here are some YP activities this week:

Tuesday, June 1: HYPE is hosting a membership meeting at The Caroline tonight at 7 PM to welcome new members and plan upcoming membership events. If  you’re looking for YP action in the Northern Miami Valley – stop by.

Wednesday, June 2: First Wednesday of every month is your time to check out the Dayton Ballet Barre/Associate Board Meeting – Want to know more about this great group?  Join them for their meeting and find out how you can get involved.  Meeting starts at 5:30, but come early for the social/happy hour at 5 PM and meet some new people.

Thursday, June 3: Calling all printers, designers, artists and anyone interested in the magic of 2D/3D imagining.  The Dayton Adobe Group (discovered through the Dayton Creative Syndicate) hosts Bart and Michael from EskoArtwork for a free meeting/demo from 6-7:30 PM.

Take your pick when to see Rent as performed by Encore Theatre Co.  Gen D will be going on Thursday, June 3 and Sunday, June 6 if you want to know that they’re be a bunch of other YP’s in the crowd.  Speaking of YPs – ETC is a young, vibrant and exciting theatre troupe based right here in Dayton.

Friday, June 4: HYPE is hosting a TGIF lunch at Tin Roof this Friday at 11:30 a.m. RSVP’s for this lunch are due to Nikki at [email protected] by noon this THURSDAY.

FIRST FRIDAY!!! Want a specifically YP way to check out First Friday?  Hook up with updayton’s Street Buzz and “Get Buzzed.”

Finally, this Sunday is the deadline to RSVP to the great DULYP event – National Day of Service.  Make a difference with other YPs by building a brand new playground in the East End neighborhood.  Event is on Saturday, June 12 – but RSVP deadline is this Sunday!

Hope everyone had a fantastic and meaningful Memorial Weekend and is ready to get out there and have fun in June!  As always – if I missed an event sponsored by YP group – post it in the comments.

This Zumba Queen Will Get You Lean: This ain’t sweatin’ to the oldies!

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Yvette Williams, aka "The Diva"

The old school method of getting a bikini ready bod for the summer used to involve breaking out a dusty old VHS tape, popping it in the VCR and listening to a poofy-haired, tiny shorts-wearing man scream positive affirmations at you through the television set.

But that was then.  If performing awkward, antiquated dance moves in your living room wearing day-glow leg warmers isn’t cutting it any more, then it might be time to switch your style up.

The “new” way, ladies and gentlemen, to sculpt a hot bod is zumba.

And zumba ain’t no joke.

To characterize zumba – a fitness regimen that blends Latin grooves and dance moves – as simply a health craze would be a transgression and an inadequate description of the art form.

Zumba is a lifestyle for enthusiasts who shake their hips to the slick sounds of salsa, merengue and other afro-cuban inspired international rhythms.  The popularity of zumba dance has exploded in recent years as many are discovering the numerous benefits of this fun, yet challenging, activity.

No one knows this better than Yvette “The Diva” Williams, a certified fitness instructor and sports nutritionist who has been leading high energy zumba sessions throughout the Dayton area for the last two years.

Williams, originally from Queens, New York, leads zumba workouts at DK & J Pump in Trotwood, Premiere Ladies Fitness in Kettering and Therapy Cafe in downtown Dayton.

Dayton MostMetro recently sat down with this mother of two for an honest discussion about zumba, music and machismo:

Dayton MostMetro:  When did you develop your interest in fitness?

Yvette Williams: I began bodybuilding late…at thirty!  I grew up always being unhappy with the way that I looked.  I’ve always been a very self conscious person, never really liking the way that I looked.  So, at thirty, I decided to do something about it.  I was watching the Olympics…and was looking at some videos of track and field.  [I was] looking at the bodies and how muscular [the women] were.  I saw how beautiful they were.  They were attractive and sexy.  They didn’t look like men – they looked like shredded, beautiful women.  I wanted to look like that.

DMM:  How were you introduced to zumba?

Williams:  I’ve always had a love for Latin music – especially from being in New York City for as long as I was.  I grew up with the authentic Latin music…Tito Puente, Celia Cruz, Mongo Santamaria, um…Ray Barretto, Willie Bobo.  All of them.  I grew up with this music!  It was a very strong influence in my family – in my household.

I was at a gym, and I heard the music and it was catchy.  I thought, “What are they in there doing?’  I ended up taking classes from an instructor named Christi Siler…and we had a ball!  I loved the music!  I loved how she moved!  I found that I already knew the moves because I grew up with this music.  I thought, “Oh my gosh. I can do this!”  I really did it for the love of the music.

"The Diva" in her element

DMM: When did you began teaching your own classes here in Dayton?

Williams:  I became certified and started teaching about a year later…The classes have just sort of taken off. I’m just appreciative – and very grateful – that people like what I do!

My style is very authentic.  Zumba is a Latin word.  It was developed by Alberto Perez, who is Colombian. So, in that spirit – it’s Latin.  It’s what I identify with.  It’s very authentic.  [It’s] heavy salsa!  Heavy meringue and reggae-ton!  I stick with the authentic Latin moves, rather than incorporating too many other things.  I’ve learned that the Latina population really appreciates that, because I’m not watering down anything…It is what it’s supposed to be.

DMM:  So, what’s so cool about the zumba dance routines?

Williams:  You’re working out without even feeling that you’re working out!  You just let the music takes you wherever it wants to take you…The music is very motivating.  It’s captivating and fun music.  It takes you somewhere else!

It allows you a chance to escape.  There’s whooping and hollering…clapping and cheering!  The zumba logo says  “Join the party!”  So, we treat it like a party!  It’s fun, and exciting.  Every class is different…I’m trying to get some more men in the class…

DMM: …Which brings me to my next question.  What was the inspiration behind your Zumba Men’s Challenges?

Williams: Diva is trying to gain more testosterone in her classes! [Laughs.] I’m not going to get the men in here by saying, “Would you guys please come to my zumba class?”  Because they’re going to say that zumba is for girls!  So I said, okay…How about if I challenge them?  And I find that if I challenge them it’s like, “Hold on, wait a minute! You’re not gonna challenge me…” [Laughs]

When I challenged them, they came.

DMM: So you had a favorable response?

Williams: We had a huge one the first time.  The entire dance floor was covered, and there were people going all the way to the back wall.  That was in February. At the second men’s challenge, the men outnumbered the women.

Everybody can Zumba!

DMM: What is the age range for zumba?  And are there any restrictions?

Williams: Before you start any fitness regimen, you should always check with your doctor.  There are different levels.  There’s even Zumba Gold, for the elderly or for people who have had injuries.  But it’s all ages [for zumba.]

My classes are very diverse — from ages 13 to 60.

DMM: Lastly, what would you say to anyone who may be on the fence about trying your classes?

Williams: For the ladies, it’s just an amazing way to get fit and toned for the summer.  I tell everybody, “Before you strut, you gotta sweat!”

For my men, I tell them, “Zumba ain’t sissy, it’s sexy!”

Williams is also a gifted vocalist who has performed on stage during Urban Nights

Mondays
DK&J Pump 1790 Shiloh Springs Rd Trotwood, OH
7:00pm $5 for non-gym members

Fridays
Therapy Cafe 452 E. 3rd St Dayton, OH
6:30pm $6

Saturdays
Premier Ladies Fitness, Kettering OH
1:00pm members only

Ms. Williams would like to give a special shout out to DJ Danny D for providing her with fabulous Latin music and remixes!

As We Go On, We Remember…

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The popular song “Graduation” by Vitamin C will be ringing in the ears of many Wright State students Saturday, June 12.

We go through many graduations in our lives. It beings when we are five, in kindergarten. We have just learned our alphabet and the colors and were advancing on to elementary school to learn how to add, subtract, multiply and divide. We make it all the way through to 8th grade after our awkward pre-teen years and step through the doors of high school. We learn more advanced math and English skills, learn to drive, and experience our first loves. For most of us, after four years and a bigger graduation celebration than the one we had as a kindergartener, it is off for more schooling. We all choose different institutions to go to depending on which area of study we want to pursue. Now for thousands of Wright State students, it is time for their biggest graduation yet: college graduation.

Senior Kim Collins will be amongst those graduating this year. She will receive a Bachelors Degree in Business Management and Human Resources Management. She will walk across that stage and whereas before, she would be more prepared for more schooling this time Collins has plans of getting an entry-level human resource job and an HR Assistant. This graduation ceremony is completely different than the others before. Collins feels that Wright State has prepared her for the upcoming adventure known as the “real world”. “WSU has prepared me for graduation in a few ways. First, in most of my business classes, we worked in groups, and I know in the business world teamwork is essential” said Collins. Not only was teamwork learned in Collins’ classes, she got hands on experience as well. “In one of my classes I was able to help make a human resources manual for a local business, so that gave me valuable hands-on experience”.

So as some say good bye to Wright State and hello to new experiences, Wright State will always have a close spot in us. It is and has been teaching and preparing us for what is outside of the walls of the campus buildings. The instructors and staff have been responsible for creating the future employees of local Dayton companies. The Wright State graduates will be entering the work force in Dayton. With many skills and accomplishments on their resumes, they are ready to shine their bright white smiles and give you what they have to offer. Any they will be ready to accept what this world has to offer them.

*Commencement is Saturday, June 12th at the Ervin J. Nutter center. The ceremony begins at 10 am and lasts about 2 hours and 15 minutes. Doors open at 8:30 am to the public but graduates are to report NO LATER THAN 8:30 am.

How 1,500 Vacant Dayton Lots Could Blossom into the Growth of Civilization

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There are 1,500 vacant lots in the city of Dayton. Fifteen hundred?!? Let that sink in for a moment. These aren’t boarded up homes, vacant homes, abandoned homes, these are vacant lots that the City of Dayton has to maintain, somehow. It’s staggering to think about. I see plenty of these lots, and you do too, but to think about 1,500? So the question of what we should do with these lots comes with some urgency behind it, but also some promise and potential. Dayton now has Jonathan Cain with the Lot Links program and several months ago he took some time to talk to me about Lot Links. Mr Cain, like Leah Werner, is a true champion of the potential in Dayton. He’s excited about the possibilities and the opportunities the Lot Links program could represent, if we really thought about it, and he’s open to discussion and willing to help, and looking for a chance to spread the word about this program to clubs, churches and any organization that wants to learn more about it.

You may know that Lot Links is an inexpensive way for Dayton residents to purchase vacant lots that are owned by the City of Dayton. Jonathan told me that most purchasers are neighboring home owners who want to expand their yard space to create a play area for the kids, or a garden, or to put up a garage. Useful purposes all, and those lots would fit well into an established neighborhood without much distraction or disruption in neighborhood aesthetics. You can purchase a lot for as little as $235.00, although a buildable lot is $635.00- still cheap land ownership and the city guarantees clean title without liens. The problem, as I see it, is that land ownership has to be profitable somehow. It doesn’t do any good to simply own a lot. Either you have a house and all the positives that can potentially come with home ownership: Freedom, independence, stability, or you have property with which you can create income: Food production, rental space of some sort, a business.

Ohio is often considered the “Mother of Presidents” with eight Presidents who thought of Ohio as their home (seven if you don’t count William Henry Harrison who was born in Virginia, but was raised and is buried here). Ohio has an extraordinary and rich history and no small part in shaping our country. One of my favorite quotes is from Ohioan and President William Howard Taft “Next to the right of liberty, the right of property is the most important individual right guaranteed by the Constitution and the one which, united with that of personal liberty, has contributed more to the growth of civilization than any other institution established by the human race…”

Back to those fifteen hundred empty lots? That’s a lot of property. But we also now have the opportunity to offer people, for dirt cheap, the chance to enjoy one of the most “important right(s) guaranteed by the Constitution”. How can we use this opportunity to its best advantage? I have a few ideas. We can, and probably should, have a community garden every few blocks- gardening is good for us, but that’s not likely to be an income-producing or highest and best use of land. Expanding your lot size adds value to a house, as does a garage, so for a neighbor to acquire a lot for their own use, that’s a good idea. We tend to think of these lots as either private residential, or some sort of community property, but I think it might be beneficial to start to consider business uses and allow room for developing the lots in profitable ways- I’ve begun to think of this as “micro-development”.

If we want to promote the “growth of civilization” in Dayton Ohio we might do worse than making room for unique uses for all these vacant lots: Allow someone to build a garage and rent it to a neighboring homeowner; pave an empty lot and rent out off-street parking; true urban gardening including chickens for income producing fresh eggs. In other words, we open the land for micro-development, for someone to use for a small business. It’s weird, perhaps. It’s certainly not what we signed on for when we decided to plant roots in Dayton, but the only constant in life is change, and the strong adapt. Momentum builds momentum and rethinking highest and best uses for what we have in abundance is a possible way out of our current situation.

We can flourish, if only in small ways at the start, by reveling in our right of property, which is one thing Dayton has plenty of right now- inexpensive and available property. San Francisco doesn’t have it, nor does Oakwood for that matter. Dayton has an opportunity to celebrate what President Taft understood was crucial, integral, part and parcel to what makes America such an extraordinary place- our right to own property. It would be a shame for us to ignore such strengths.

Photo: Teri Lussier

Correction: Initially this article stated there were 15,000 vacant lots; it has been corrected to 1,500.

This Week in YP: music, food and professional development

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YP Events coming up THIS WEEK:

Generation Dayton presents Next-Generation Consulting Webcast.  Tuesday May, 25 from 11:30-1PM.  You’re moving up in the world and got that promotion – this Webcast will give you the tips and hints you need to be an awesome manager.  Brown bag lunch – drinks and desserts provided.   RSVP by Monday!

JumpstART presents Jump into the DPO .  Not ready to spend a Saturday on the arts?  Join other YPs after work on Wednesday, May 26 for $10 tickets to see 24-year old wonder Jessica Hung perform in a 45-minute concert she designed.  After the show, meet Jessica at a private JumpstART reception with pizza and a beer tasting sponsored by Boston’s Bistro and Pub.  Call 228-3630 and mention the jumpstART deal.

Generation Dayton: Even More on the calendar for the group affectionately known as “GenD.”  Coming up, you can check out the regular Fourth Friday lunch on Friday, May 28.  Get together with other young professionals at El Meson at Noon to meet new people, check out a great restaurant, and have some fun that fits into your work schedule.

Post below if I missed anything or if you have plans to attend one of these great events!

Scene It: College Edition

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For each student the “college experience” is different, some live on campus, in an apartment or the dorms while others commute from home. Some students are fresh out of high school while others are coming back because life took them an alternative route after high school. Whatever the story might be, no way of college is the “right” or “wrong” way of doing it. I, personally, am a commuter student. I live at home, rent free, with my parents. I work at a restaurant and go to school full time. I wonder sometimes about how my college experience might be different if I had chosen to go to a big university and live on campus. But with Wright State in the Dayton area, it gives Dayton somewhat of a college scene, maybe not your “typical” college scene but it is a college scene.

There are students working in department stores and restaurants making money to pay for their books, tuition, or rent. But what makes the college scene different for the Dayton area is that we, the students, come from all different places. We all aren’t from the Beavercreek, Fairborn area. For sophomore Jessica Olson, it’s a twenty minute drive from Centerville, but commuting works out for her. “I guess I like that I can still go to school, but not be emerged in all the drama school can offer,” said Olson.

Working as a nursing assistant for Fidelity Healthcare four or five days a week, Olson says that her college experience would be “a lot different, a lot worse is my guess. I’m sure my relationship with God would suffer”. She feels this ways because she said she would probably have slipped into the partying if she weren’t maintaining such a busy schedule.

So Dayton, you do have a college scene. It’s just different than that of say, Oxford’s. You have students who go to school, work, take care of families, and still some how make time for leisure. Talk about time management skills! Having a smaller university around gives the students the opportunity to have the choice of such a school. It gives students who have chosen to come back to school after years down a different path the opportunity to do so. It also gives students who might just need that extra push to continue through college, the opportunity to go somewhere where they don’t feel so overwhelmed.

Your “Traditional” YP Groups: Contemporary and Fun

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When people think of YP groups, I think it’s organizations like DULYP, GenD, and HYPE that come to mind.  Groups of young people – whatever jobs or interests – in a certain region working together to advance professional development, volunteerism, and fun.  There are many YP groups that specialize in serving specific professions or interests, but the Dayton region is the proud home to a few of these comprehensive and more traditional YP organizations as well.  I spoke to Demarus Crawford-White (chair of the Dayton Urban League Young Professionals) and Shanon Potts (chair of Generation Dayton) to get their take on the YP situation in the region – and they had a lot to share.

Crawford-White is Dayton born and bred, and will tell you that she was “tricked” into becoming the chair of the DULYPs.  A friend invited her to a couple of events, asked for help with some event coordination, and before she knew it –  she was the marketing chair andthings have grown from there.  Although she didn’t know what she was getting into, Crawford-White will tell you that the “trick” was one of the best things her friend ever did for her.  Potts moved to Dayton for work from a small Ohio town after a stay in Columbus for college and law school.  She was referred to the Dayton Young Professionals Association (a group founded in 2004 when many YPs determined there weren’t enough networking opportunities) right before a merge with Generation Dayton created the current program affiliated with the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce.  Potts has been an active member of GenD since May 2006.

Both women tout the value that a YP org provides anyone who wants to get involved – professional networking, meeting new people,

A group of YPs enjoys YP@Play sponsored by the DULYPs.

and the value of being connected to something larger than the self.  Potts shared that her involvement with Generation Dayton opened the door for her to serve as the young professional representative on the Executive Committee for the successful Five Rivers MetroParks levy campaign in 2009.  Also, the chair of GenD holds a seat on the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Trustees.  Those external leadership opportunities have proved invaluable to Potts as she continues to expand her network and meet new people.  Crawford-White also spoke about the value the YP organizations provide for people looking to grow professionally; being a member provides an opportunity to showcase skills in leadership, management, relationship-building, andso many more traits that employers look for.  Beyond that, membership demonstrates a commitment to community, and that drive based on passion and not the paycheck is important to employers.  Crawford-White has seen many DULYP members receive promotions due in part to the skills they’ve demonstrated through community involvement.

And it’s so easy to get involved – many events for GenD, the DULYPs, and HYPE are open to both members and non-members.  And if you’re not really a “joiner,” the ladies have some advice for you as well.  Potts explains that the benefits received by membership in GenD far outweigh the individual investment.  But if you don’t want to lose that valuable “friend time,” bring your friends along, too!  Crawford-White knows that time is an issue for all of us, but she refers back to the old adage: “If you don’t stand for something, you will fall for anything.”  The DULYPs provide an easy way to stand with other YPs in the region and bring voices together to make a difference in the community.

Although their missions differ, members of both these organizations are working toward a better Dayton region for young professionals.  I asked both women why Dayton has such a negative stigma in the view of YPs.  Crawford-White knows there are valuable events happening in the region, but says it can be tough for YPs to filter- even though she has been here her whole life, she still is amazed by the great opportunities she learns about every few months.  Crawford-White believes it only takes visiting a couple YP groups and getting on some email lists until you find a group that you “click” with.  Potts agrees with the wide selection of YP opportunities in the region.  A downtown resident and frequent visitor around all parts of the region, Potts explains that Dayton is a very easy community to navigate once you are willing to become actively involved and engaged in an organization like Generation Dayton.  She expresses a specific gratitude to the many businesses and community leaders who are working to open doors to better involve and engage YPs.

A group from GenD enjoys networking and fun at a Dragon's game.

Although the passion these ladies demonstrate for their YP organizations are clear, they both demonstrate a similar passion for the region.  Potts picks Downtown Dayton as her favorite place to hang out, explore and experience.  She most enjoys walking to and from restaurants, Dragons games, the theater, art galleries as well as being at epicenter of the region’s growing system of bike paths with easy access to Yellow Springs, Xenia and Miamisburg.  Crawford-White highlights the MetroParks as her favorite Dayton spot(s) – from Riverscape to the 2nd Street Market, Cox Arboretum and Wegerzyn Gardens – she appreciates that the “the whole system is really a neat and wallet-friendly place to spend the day.”

Hopefully, this expanded highlight of a couple of the region’s most comprehensive YP organizations – and the women who are currently at the helm –  has demonstrated the ease and important value of getting engaged in the opportunities our region offers.  Whatever you’re looking for – social activities, new friends, professional development, volunteering, education or more – could be found with the programs sponsored by Generation Dayton and the Dayton Urban League Young Professionals.  For a final thought – Crawford-White reminds us that Dayton was made famous by individuals who thought outside of the box.  The Wright Brothers, Charles Kettering, Paul Laurence Dunbar, and Erma Bombeck all started their fantastic careers here in Dayton while they were “young professionals.”  She asks, “What potential does yet another Dayton YP have to make and impact?”

NOTE: Schedules didn’t work out and I was unable to speak with a representative to HYPE, but if you’re a YP in the Northern Miami Valley area and want to stay a little closer to home – check out this org that provides great opportunities. HYPE will be featured in the future.

Generation Dayton (YPs ages 21-40) is dedicated to connecting young professionals with one another and to the community so that together YPs can become integral components in the future of the success of the region.  GenD offers many unique opportunities  – popular ones include Generation Dayton Day (a community-wide volunteering opportunity), volunteer speed matching, an annual holiday party, and regular “Thirsty Thursdays” for business and social networking.

The Dayton Urban League Young Professionals (YPs ages 21-44) are the auxiliary association of the Dayton Urban League; the DULYPs work to further the five empowerment points of the League.   The DULYPs are affiliated with the National Urban League, and that partnerhsip provides great national experiences for members.  Popular local activities include the professional development series, the Next Level Entrepreneurship Conference, the monthly YP @ Play evenings, and opportunities to volunteer in the community.

Greater Downtown Dayton Plan Update

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The organizers of the Greater Downtown Dayton Plan unveiled “the plan” earlier today, and we’ll have more info to share soon – but for now check out the video that Dayton’s Kenny Mosher put together that sums up just how important Downtown Dayton is, and why the entire region should believe in its future.

The Downtown Dayton Plan from Kenny Mosher on Vimeo.

YPs This Week: Eggs, Merlot, Kites and Dancing!

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YP Events coming up THIS WEEK:

GenD hosts their monthly Business and Breakfast on Tuesday, May 18 from 7-8 AM at the First Watch by the Dayton Mall.  Everyone is welcome; the event is free to attend, but breakfast is at your own expense. 

HYPE:  HYPE stands for Helping Young Professionals Emergeand works to connect YPs in the Northern Miami Valley to great opportunities.  Thursday, May 20th is the One Year Anniversary Bash!  Have a great time with old and new friends and make new contacts with special features including a dj with music videos, year in review news and photos, and much more!  5:30 PM at Club 55 in Troy.

HYPE keeps up the fun on Friday, May 21 as they dispel the mystery of wine through our upcoming Wine Education Series.   Join the fun and education at The Piqua Country Club as they feature an amazing line-up of wine and culinary expertise. 

Dayton Creatives Syndicate: Looking for something fun do do? Why don’t you go fly a kite?  No, really — join your friends at the Dayton Creative Syndicate from 3-7 p.m. Saturday, May 22, at Possum Creek MetroPark for the Go Fly a Kite Regatta.  Everyone is welcome to participate or just enjoy!

The Dayton Ballet Associate Board/Ballet Barre is holding a recruiting event on Saturday, May 22nd @ Champs by the Dayton Mall at 5 pm.  Check it out for a casual and fun way to learn more about what this group is doing to get people under 45 engaged in the region’s arts.

Did I miss anything?  If you know of a specific YP event happening between now and May 23 – post it here!

In Celebration of AmeriCorps Week

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The following was submitted by DaytonMostMetro.com reader Caitlin Closser

With any revelation arises the need to announce it to the world, and I wish to announce that I am in love…with service.  This love is not without its challenges.  However, now that I’ve experienced the warmth, inspiration, and pure joy that serving creates, I know I’ll never be without it in my life again.

Service and I were mere acquaintances in the past.  Sure, we had met a few times, on various projects.  The response had been positive, but life, as always, got in the way.  With the need to earn a living, there just wasn’t enough time for it.  That is, until AmeriCorps came along.

Laid off unceremoniously from my last job, I found myself unemployed and stranded.  My previous company unleashed nearly 300 of us into an unforgiving job market.  The months following the layoff were bleak.  There was a shortage of jobs I was interested in, and I wasn’t qualified for any of them.  That was when I discovered AmeriCorps, a program that has existed since the Clinton administration, but was little known to me.  I pursued AmeriCorps for practical reasons: to build my resume, to gain the experience I lacked in the community development field.

AmeriCorps, the domestic cousin of the Peace Corps, is a year-long service commitment.  AmeriCorps members work in widespread fields, from community development to conservation to education.  In exchange for their service, members earn a small living stipend and an education grant upon completion.

This is just the part they tell you about.  The part that doesn’t fit so neatly into word packages is the assurance that for maybe the first time ever, you are doing something meaningful with your life.  It’s the smiles, the hugs, the thank you notes from the people you are helping.  It’s the ability to see the incredible progress volunteers can make towards repairing a home in a single day.

I currently serve with Rebuilding Together Dayton, a non-profit that performs home repairs and modifications at no cost to the low-income, elderly and disabled homeowners who live in them.  We are fueled by hard-working volunteers and generous sponsors.  Our mission is a safe, warm, and dry home for every Dayton homeowner.

The work can be tedious, tiresome, and downright filthy.  Just last week I had to dive into a dumpster from one of our project sites to try and retrieve stray tires before the trash could be picked up.  On a regular basis I talk with homeowners whose life stories that are so sad they would melt your heart.

As this is AmeriCorps week, I wish to celebrate by offering this homage to a program that has changed my life.  I encourage you to pursue your own love affair with service.  Visit AmeriCorps’s website.  Seek out serving opportunities near you.

Is it challenging to live near the poverty line?  Sure is.  Is the work difficult?  At times, terribly.  Does it feel like I am working towards an unachievable goal?  Sometimes it does.

Is it worth it?  Absolutely.

Dayton to Daytona: A time for celebration

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For the 2,500+ University of Dayton students who make the long journey to Daytona Beach, Fl., it can be the best week of their lives. The traditional trip was from May 4 – May 10 this year and did not fail to disappoint. The week-long party has been going strong since 1978 and is in the hearts of many as an important tradition and final send off for seniors.

Source: Ashley Laker

A room of five will run students $209 each, according to this year’s rates. Any additional information can be found here. This is a very competitive deal which averages to less than $30 a day for a beachfront apartment! The main hotel overlooks a large pool area where Budweiser provides free beer during a few precious hours of the day.

With all this free beer in mind, UD had to be concerned about student safety, especially after incidents at other schools that have been making national news. Because it is an unfamiliar city, students are highly encouraged to stay together at night, and to never go out alone. “You always need to have someone with you when walking to any other place in the area,” said UD student Ashley Laker. “I would never recommend walking alone.”

UD is well-known for having a feeling of togetherness among its students and it is one of the first things that visiting students and prospective students notice when they come to the campus. This feeling is emphasized during Daytona as a large part of the student population converges on Daytona Beach to have one last party and to be with their friends one last time before graduating to “the real world”.

Among the highlights of the trip (besides the free beer of course) are the live performances by popular bands and artists. With popular past performances by bands like Reel Big Fish, UD does not fail in bringing the bands we all like to Daytona. This year’s headliners were up-and-coming Hip-hop artist Mike Posner and Pop-punk band Boys Like Girls. A spirited 2009 performance from Mike Posner is here:

Hearing about all of this just makes me excited for my turn to join in and bask in the sun that is Dayton to Daytona. For all of you Dayton alumni, what were your favorite memories from Daytona? Please feel free to share them!

Come Celebrate a Victory for Dayton

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Written By DaytonMostMetro.com guest contributor Val Hunt Beerbower – PR Specialist at Five Rivers MetroParks

Cyclists celebrate a victory for Dayton during Urban Bikes @ Urban Nights this Friday!

Cycling is taking Dayton by storm, and this pedal-powered movement has captured national attention.

The League of American Bicyclists has honored Dayton, Ohio, with its bronze-level status for a bike-friendly city. “Communities from all areas of the country, climates and populations see bicycling as an integral component of building livable communities,” said League President Andy Clarke. “The Bicycle Friendly Community program is recognizing those leading the way.”

To celebrate this designation and highlight the emerging prominence of bicycling in Dayton, a special escorted group ride is scheduled in concurrence with Urban Nights. Urban Bikes @ Urban Nights, a group ride, kicks off festivities at 5:30 p.m. Friday, May 14, at Fifth Third Field. “This is a great way to bring cycling to the attention of Urban Nights patrons and raise awareness of bicyclists’ right to share the road,” said Andy Williamson, assistant outdoor recreation manager for the Outdoor Recreation Department at Five Rivers MetroParks, and spokesperson for the Drive Less Live More campaign. “It’s a bigger and bolder version of the regular Courteous Mass rides, in which we promote group cycling with an emphasis on learning the rules of the road. This is more of a parade – complete with local celebrities!” In addition to Dayton Police Department officers, Urban Bikes @ Urban Nights will host two Dayton City Commissioners.

There is much cause for celebration within the cycling community. The application process to become a BFC is rigorous; currently only 140 of the 359 total applicants have a BFC four-year designation. Communities vying for BCF status must establish records in two or more of the five categories which are known as the Five Es:

  • Education: Does the community have systems in place to train children and adult cyclists?
  • Engineering: Are bicyclists included in the city’s transportation plan?
  • Enforcement: Do police officers understand and enforce bicyclists’ rights and responsibilities?
  • Encouragement: Does the community participate in Bike Month, offer bike rodeos, host community bike rides, or otherwise encourage cycling?
  • Evaluation: Does the community have methods in place to ensure their bicyclist programs are making a difference?

Adding to the excitement of the occasion is the upcoming opening of the new RiverScape Bike Hub, part of RiverScape MetroPark’s latest development phase. The Hub will feature secured, patrolled areas with 40 bike lockers, four showers, 42 storage lockers, restrooms and food concession stand, making it convenient for bike commuters to head to work on two wheels as well as families in need of a pit stop while enjoying an afternoon on the recreational trails. “The Hub is only the third bike commuter facility to open east of the Mississippi,” says Five Rivers MetroParks Outdoor Recreation Director Greg Brumitt. “Washington, D.C., and Chicago are the other east coast locations, and we’re only the third in the Midwest (besides Chicago and Minneapolis) to open a hub. Certainly, we’re the first mid-size city to open a special bike hub, and that’s something to cheer about.”

Anyone who can ride a bike is invited to join the celebration at 5:30 p.m. Friday, May 14, at Fifth Third Field. Participants are encouraged to enjoy the rest of the sights and sounds of Urban Nights. Five Rivers MetroParks will have its own bike-friendly activities—free bike rentals and pedicabs will be available from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday.

Learn more about other cycling activities and opportunities by visiting the website www.metroparks.org/cycling or calling (937) 275-277-4374.

Rev. Cool Arkestra & Dance Ensemble * True Nature/FilmDayton After-Party

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RUCKUS ROBOTICUS, SCORPIUS MAX & THE REV. COOL ARKESTRA & DANCE ENSEMBLE provide a night of high energy dance music in a benefit for FILMDAYTON and an after-party for the film TRUE NATURE.

Although the Arkestra event begins at 10 PM there is an entire evening of dance party entertainment at Gillys as a part of the FilmDayton Festival. A Red Carpet reception takes place from 8PM to 10 PM with the famed Scorpius Max providing the beats.

Following the Neon showing of True Nature the after party goes into full blast with the internationally acclaimed Ruckus Roboticus.The boy robot has recently tour England and Korea, creates soundtracks for Nickelodeon and has played sold out crowds at clubs like NYC’s Mercury Lounge.

At 11PM the REV. COOL ARKESTRA & DANCE ENSEMBLE hits the floor with the most exciting show anywhere with live DJs, horns, drums, Afrobeat, House and Electronic Dance music as well as the most amazing hip-hop dancers in the Midwest. Scorpius will continue the dance party with you even after the professional dancers have left the floor panting.

At 10 the cover drops to a mere $5 or FREE with a stub from TRUE NATURE or a all inclusive FilmDayton pass.

WEAR YOUR DANCING SHOES — DON’T MISS IT!!!

Young Professionals in Dayton: Who, What and Why

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There are so many organizations that encourage involvement in the Dayton region – clubs and associations focused on topics from entertainment to networking to recreation to hobbies to philanthropy to professional development and more.  But there’s a certain niche of organizations that are specifically directed toward “young professionals,” and that’s what I’ll be sharing with you through DaytonMostMetro.com.

First, let’s get the *full disclosure* out of the way.  I’m on the team that put together the updayton “Young Creatives Summit,” so obviously this is something I feel passionately about.  I also volunteer as the co-chair of the Culture Works Associate Board that puts together deals and events to better connect young professionals to the many arts opportunities in the region.  I’ve been to events sponsored by DULYP, DCS, GenD, the Red Cross Associate Board, and more;  I like what’s going on in the region for YPs and I’m looking forward to keeping you in the loop.

Now for this term “young professional.”  Some people I’ve talked with have been turned-off by the stigma of the term “young professional” thinking that it still carries the negative Yuppie stereotype that it did in the 80s & 90s.  Others fear the term neglects those who love their careers and callings, but are not considered 9-to-5 “professionals.”  And people who are unemployed, in temporary positions as they search for their career, or doing amazing work as volunteers, may feel left out by not being “professional”  at all.  If you have better suggestions (remember, I’m part of the group who took a shot with “young creatives”) – leave them in the comments.  The term young professional is what we have, so that’s what you’ll see throughout these articles.  I’m talking to you if you’re in your 20s/30s – regardless of career choice or lifestyle.  And if there are any stipulations about the type of young professional you have to be to participate, I’ll let you know.

There are a lot of ways that people in their 20s and 30s are getting connected, making a difference, and having fun in the region.  And these organizations aren’t necessarily working against each other.  I’ve seen some true partnerhsips developing; just over the past year, a quarterly lunch has been held so that representatives from some of the local YP organizations can gather to coordinate schedules, cross-promote events, and share ideas and resources.  There is collaborration happening where groups are supporting one another and encouraging members to explore different events.  Although our region may appear super-saturated by YP organizations, I think it speaks to the critical mass of YPs in the region that so many unique organizations can exist and remain sustainable.

So, moving forward, I’m going to try and keep you up-to-date on opportunities specifically for young professionals throughout the region. For those who claim, “there’s nothing to do,” it’s because they’re not looking hard enough.  Lots of great YP organizations, events, and people making a difference will be highlighted in the future.   If there’s anything specific you’d like to see on these pages or if you’re interested in a certain topic, leave it in the comments.

Just a few events coming up this week for YPs:

Generation Dayton: May 11 at 5:30 at the Ohio Coffee Co. – Downtown Dayton: Present and Future– A great opportunity to hear about the role of YPs in changes happening downtown, learn about great opportunities to get active this summer through Five Rivers MetroParks, and talk about how DaytonMostMetro.com is working to bring the region together online.

United Way Young Leaders Series: Connecting Career with Community – Marketing yourself in the Dayton region
May 12th from 8:00 – 9:30 am at the Sinclair Ponitz Center

GenD keeps the week moving along with their monthly Thirsty Thursday.  On May 13 it’s at Brio at the Greene starting at 5:30 PM.

Dayton Urban League Young Professionals: check out the YP at Play night at Therapy Cafe on the second Friday of each month (May 14).  They pull out the old school board games, get active with Twister and Musical Chairs, and have an all out great time.

JumpstART:  JumpstART is the activity arm of the Culture Works Associate Board.  You know you’ve wanted to check out Urban Nights (Friday, May 14), but if you don’t know what to expect or where to go – they’ll take the mystery out with a hybrid art hop/pub crawl around the city.