Put a Little Love in Your Hometown
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Dr. Heidi Sprowls has been practicing dentistry in the Dayton area for over 20 years. She attended Indiana University School of Dentistry and completed a General Practice Residency at Indiana University School of Medicine. Dr. Sprowls has an amazing team working with her
Happy HeARTS Day!
February often calls to mind images of hearts and roses, but here in Centerville and Washington Township, love goes beyond the holiday—it lives in the support and enthusiasm we show for our neighbors, local organizations and creative talents. This month, we’re celebrating how a love for the arts can bring us together and enrich our community.
One organization that truly embodies love in action is We Care Arts, a grassroots nonprofit offering free art classes to adults with developmental disabilities, substance use disorders and mental health challenges. Their classes empower individuals to find independence and confidence through creativity—reminding us that art can be a powerful force for healing and connection.
Another key contributor to our thriving arts scene is the Centerville Arts Commission, dedicated to making visual and performing arts accessible to everyone. Meanwhile, Town Hall Theatre helps young performers thrive on and off the stage, fostering confidence and building life skills that will serve them far beyond the spotlight.
For those seeking a cozy Valentine’s celebration at home, we share ideas to transform any room into a festive retreat. Whether it’s setting up a sweet treat table for the kids or creating a romantic dinner for two in an unexpected spot, small, heartfelt touches can make the holiday memorable—no reservations required.
We hope this issue reminds you to show your love for all our community has to offer—today and every day. Happy reading and Happy Valentine’s Day!
ANDREA, PUBLISHER
February 2025
PUBLISHER
Mark Andrea | mark.andrea@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Amanda Stout | amanda.stout@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Karen Andrea
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Marie Kriedman, Nan Paraskevopoulos, Nina Weierman, Amanda Stout
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Janie Jones
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
A Place For Friendship At Bethany Village
At Bethany Village, residents like Mary nd connection, comfort, and community every day. Whether it's learning to embrace life's changes together or lending a helping hand, our community is built on trust and care. Discover a life enriched by friendship, wellness, and purpose at Bethany Village.
Scan the QR code to see how residents like Mary find purpose, joy, and support at Bethany Village — where aging is a journey shared together. (937) 888-3372
Mary Arnett
city scene
1: The Noon Optimist Tree Lot celebrated 56 years of holiday tradition in Centerville this December. 2: Visitors choose from a wide variety of trees, wreaths, sprays, roping and more. 3: Each year the lot is staffed by dedicated volunteers. 4: Candy canes for kids and dog treats make the tree lot a festive family experience. 5: Visiting the Noon Optimist Tree Lot has become a holiday tradition for many local families. 6: Proceeds from the tree lot fund scholarships, school donations and events in the local community. 7: The Centerville Noon Optimist Club is proud to be the world’s largest Optimist Club.
Photography by Centerville Noon Optimist Club Members
8: The Centerville-Washington Park District held its annual Luminary Walk on Friday, December 13. 9: Attendees enjoyed a candlelit stroll through Bill Yeck Park along the Purple Trail. 10: Hands were warmed by the fire circle and free hot cocoa at the Smith House. 11: The Centerville High School symphonic choir lifted spirits with seasonal songs. 12: A scavenger hunt made the Luminary Walk even more exciting for little ones. 13: Guests search for the right match on the scavenger hunt. 14: Illuminated forest creatures such as butterflies gave the Luminary Walk an enchanted feel.
JIM DANZI
GINGER CLARK
JIM DANZI
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15: The Dorothy Lane Market Champagne Soirée attendees toasted the season with champagnes and sparkling wines. 16: Alongside curated bubbly, attendees savored a delightful array of exquisite hors d’oeuvres. 17: The Champagne Soirée was an unforgettable evening filled with laughter and holiday cheer. 18: In November, The Institute of Holistic Leadership moved to a new location on Rahn Rd. 19: Elected officials gathered to celebrate this new chapter in their business. 20: At SICSA's Paw-liday Party kids read books to cats in Kitty City. 21: Adoptable stuffed animals with an adoption certificate were free for children at the Paw-liday Party.
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business monthly
Washington-Centerville Public Library Holds Genealogy Workshop
Anne Wachs, MLS, is a librarian at Washington-Centerville Public Library, a national conference speaker on genealogy and an excellent resource on the subject in our community. She will host a genealogy workshop on February 1 from 10 a.m.- 3 p.m. at Woodbourne Library. It’s perfect for people who have always wanted to explore genealogy research and don’t know where to start. This workshop will cover how to start researching and accessing the library’s free databases and provide hands-on practice. Registration is required. Events.WClibrary.info/Event/12849455
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Centerville Noon Optimist Club Recognizes Three Centerville High School Seniors
The Centerville Noon Optimist Club honored three Centerville High School students with the Youth Appreciation Award at the end of 2024. Seniors Cha’Miah Phoenix, Lexie Lehman and Madhav Verma were recognized for demonstrating exceptional leadership in academics and community service. Each of the students and their unit counselors, Josh Cabay, Beth Buck and Samantha Stingley, had an opportunity to speak during the Noon Optimist meeting on Dec. 3. Centerville.k12.oh.us; CentervilleNoonOptimist.com
City of Centerville Appoints New Assistant City Manager
City Manager Wayne Davis recently announced the appointment of Tyler Roark as the new Assistant City Manager for the City of Centerville. Tyler has been with the City since 2019 as Finance Director and has over a decade of public sector experience. He will retain his current position while taking on the additional responsibilities of Assistant City Manager. His new role will expand his duties to include assisting with strategic planning, managing key projects and working closely with city staff and community partners. CentervilleOhio.gov
Photography by Megan Suttles
Photography by Centerville Noon Optimist Club
Photography by City of Centerville
Anne Wachs, MLS, WashingtonCenterville Public Library
Left to right: Cha’Miah Phoenix, Lexie Lehman and Madhav Verma
With just your library card, you can:
• Access thousands of online resources: learn languages, watch concerts and music documentaries, get business information, and much more
• Borrow non-traditional items like jewelry-making kits, instruments, and bike repair tools
• Stream shows on a Roku
• Attend programs of all types for all ages and interests
• Print huge banners and large photo prints
It’s not the library of the past – it's a dynamic space for learning and creativity. We offer diverse programs
A PLACE TO GET creative
LOCAL NONPROFIT EMPOWERS HEALING THROUGH ART AND COMMUNITY.
ARTICLE BY NAN PARASKEVOPOULOS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
We Care Arts is a grassroots nonprofit with a mission to provide creative outlets for adults. Founded in 1982 in Dayton on Watervliet Avenue, We Care Arts moved to its current location in Kettering in 2004. They work with people with developmental disabilities, substance use disorders and mental health challenges.
Through their free classes, their artist clients are empowered to foster independence, confidence and joy through the transformative power of creativity. This community effort has evolved over four decades into a thriving organization where art and healing intersect to create profound impacts.
We Care Arts supports their artist clients by teaching art classes. These classes have an annual curriculum that includes painting, ceramics, jewelry making as well as mindfulness activities such as meditation and creating encouragement boards. Accessibility is top of mind when designing classes, intentionally ensuring that the creative process is available to each client and their unique needs.
“We believe art is for everyone,” says Executive Director Katie Neubert. “We provide tools like adaptive brushes and assistive devices, ensuring our artist clients can fully participate and express themselves.”
This commitment to inclusivity is bolstered by Individualized Service Plans (ISPs) and Individualized Art Plans (IAPs). That means that We Care Arts uses personalized lessons and objectives tailored to their artist client's needs and aspirations. This holistic approach nurtures both artistic and personal growth, fostering resilience, self-expression and community connections.
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We Care Arts Towne & Country Gift Shop
We Care Arts is one of the rare places where people who often have to ask for help are given the space to lean into their own choices. This environment helps foster a sense of personal agency. One artist client, who has been attending classes for two years, was used to relying on his support staff to know what he needed. However, since coming to We Care Arts and practicing these skills in a creative environment, he has developed the confidence and ability to articulate more of his needs. He is now independently navigating some of the challenges he previously would have relied on others for and becoming more resilient.
“Things that used to upset him no longer have the same influence over him,” Katie explains. “To me, not only is this a testament to the resilience of this particular person but also the dedication and skill of the We Care Arts staff and the impact of our curriculum and lesson plans.”
including renowned names like Mike Elsass, Ron Rollins and Bonnie Kuntz. Tickets are available for purchase online.
Donations are equally critical to sustaining We Care Arts. Financial contributions are always welcome, but they also accept in-kind donations, such as art supplies or items from the organization’s Amazon Wish List. Additionally, the We Care Arts Towne & Country Gift Shop sells handcrafted items created by clients, with proceeds directly benefiting the artists and programs.
“We encourage people to see the creativity and talent of our artist clients, not their diagnoses.”
— Katie Neubert
The lifeblood of We Care Arts is its strong community network. Volunteers and partner agencies play an indispensable role, lending their time and talents to assist in art classes, organize events and serve on committees.
We Care Arts is currently preparing for their signature event, the Black & White Gala: Together We Care on February 28. The fundraiser will feature an art auction, displaying works created by 30 artist clients in collaboration with local artists,
At We Care Arts the emphasis is on recognizing and celebrating abilities rather than dwelling on limitations. This philosophy extends to the entire organization, where staff and volunteers continuously seek innovative ways to enhance services and support artist clients more effectively.
“We encourage people to see the creativity and talent of our artist clients, not their diagnoses,” Katie says.
Supporting We Care Arts is a meaningful way to contribute to the community and make a tangible difference. Whether by volunteering, donating or simply spreading the word, community members can help individuals overcome challenges, unlock their potential and lead more fulfilling lives.
To learn more and get involved, visit WeCareArts.org
ARTICLE BY MARIE KRIEDMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
CENTERVILLE ARTS COMMISSION OFFERS HOMETOWN COMMUNITY ACCESS TO VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS.
ARTS FOR EVERYONE
Photo by Susan Willin, Snap Photography Contest Winner
The Centerville Arts Commission started in 1973 with the belief that the arts are for everyone.
The Centerville City Council created the commission to work closely with the community resources and
“IT
“We find artists through recommendations, exhibits we see elsewhere in the community and by artists themselves reaching out,” Kate Bostdorff, City of Centerville communications director tells us.
WOULDN’T BE SUMMER IN CENTERVILLE WITHOUT THE SOUNDS AND TERRIFIC TALENT AT STUBBS PARK…”
public works departments to provide art-related knowledge and expertise, represent Centerville community desires, review plans, make recommendations to staff, assist in implementation and oversee and provide staffing for art-related events and programs.
Jim Collins has served as the chair of the Centerville Arts Commission for the past 13 years. He explains that the main purpose is to provide the people of Centerville access to experience visual and performing arts in their hometown.
“The Centerville Arts Commission is heavily involved in all the city’s events and many art programs, such as the Centerville Police Department Gallery which hosts a new artist’s work monthly,” Jim shares.
Featured artists display their work for one month and are also encouraged to host a reception during the time their work is on display. Jim emphasizes that they are always searching for great artists to feature.
The Summer Concert Series at Stubbs Park is one of the commission’s most popular and well-attended events. The concerts were moved to St. Leonard’s CHI Living Communities in 2024 due to renovation work at Stubbs Park.
“We still received great crowds,” Jim notes. “We are excited that the park is reopening in May, just in time for the best bands ever. It wouldn’t be summer in Centerville without the sounds and terrific talent at Stubbs Park on Sunday nights.”
Jim believes the commission’s impact is seen in the summer concerts because they serve as a resource for arts programming by bringing in performers and artists who otherwise might never be available to families in the community.
This year, the commission partnered with the Miami Valley Community Concert Association (MVCCA) to host concerts at Sinclair Community College. They also initiated Friday night concerts each week, alternating between Uptown Centerville and Cornerstone Park.
“Grabbing an ice cream at Graeter’s or a glass of wine at Cooper’s Hawk and listening to great music is a boon to our city,” Jim expresses.
Other local favorites include the Fall Fest, Best of Centerville Art Contest and the Snap Centerville Photo Contest. Family-oriented pop-up events at Cornerstone Park are part of the commission’s seasonal activities.
“We had our first-ever Holiday Skylights drone show at Cornerstone Park in December with hot cocoa and cookies for all attendees,” Jim enthuses.
Although the commission’s focus is hometown events, arts commission member, artist and former Best of Centerville Art Contest winner Emily von Stuckrad-Smolinski recently expanded her creative reach to Washington, D.C. She helped decorate the White House for its 2024 holiday theme, “A Season of Peace and Light.”
Emily, who was notified that her application was accepted in October, focused on the blue room and China Room. Emily’s work included stringing nearly 2,000 paper doves, decoupaging ornaments, creating displays and decorating trees.
“It was an honor to be part of this historic event,” Emily said in an interview for the city’s website. “Sometimes, while decorating, I’d have these pinch-me moments, realizing I was standing where history was made.”
Some of Centerville’s hometown plans for 2025 will include the new event center at Benham’s Grove, which is slated to
Artwork by Emily von Stuckrad-Smolinski.
Artwork by Matthew Fritz.
“THROUGH PERFORMANCES, EXHIBITS AND EVENTS, THE ARTS CELEBRATE OUR SHARED HISTORY AND CULTURE…”
complete construction in May. The new event center will be a 6,000-square-foot building with a main event space, an outdoor terrace, a bridal wing, a groom’s area and a warming kitchen. Significant investments are being made in the historic part of the campus, including renovating the Gerber House, cottage and barn and rebuilding the gazebo.
The Arts Commission includes 15 members who serve three-year terms. Volunteers are needed to perform a variety of tasks, including driving a golf cart for guests with mobility challenges, parking cars as they arrive and depart and helping at the city booth and tents with programs and giveaways at a variety of events throughout the community. Volunteer applications can be found online.
Jim’s passion for art and community drew him to work with the commission. He notes that the arts are vital to enriching the quality of life, bringing a community together and fostering creativity.
“Through performances, exhibits and events, the arts celebrate our shared history and culture while providing opportunities for self-expression and connection,” Jim says. “They also contribute to the local economy, attract visitors and enhance Centerville's reputation as a vibrant, welcoming place to live, work and play.”
For more information, visit CentervilleOhio.gov.
THE TOWN HALL THEATRE HELPS YOUNG PERFORMERS THRIVE BOTH ON AND OFF THE STAGE.
Character Development
ARTICLE BY NINA WEIERMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DEBORAH SORTMAN & PROVIDED
“We create an atmosphere of acceptance where children can grow, develop life skills and build confidence.”
For more than 35 years, Town Hall Theatre has been a cornerstone of family-friendly performing arts. Offering productions, classes and workshops, the theatre is accessible and inspiring for young performers and their families. Housed in a building in the heart of Uptown Centerville that dates back to 1908, Washington Township Town Hall has undergone significant changes since its early days as a community gathering place. In 1989, the space was transformed into a theatre, and today Christie Cerio leads the theatre’s dynamic programming.
Over the past 14 years of working with the theatre Christie has worn many hats, from teacher and box office manager to choreographer and director, all of which have prepared her to lead the theatre’s operations as the Fine and Performing Arts Coordinator. “My favorite thing about working at the theatre is shaping the lives of the young people who perform, attend classes or watch the shows,” she shares. “We create an atmosphere of acceptance where children can grow, develop life skills and build confidence.”
This mission is woven into everything Town Hall Theatre does, from its productions to its tiered educational programs. “We pride ourselves on being a teaching theatre, so we continue to teach new skills every time an actor is in a production,” shares Christie. Classes, workshops and even internships are often based on the need to educate or continue the education of the actors in the program.
Classes start as early as age 4 with offerings such as Intro to Musical Theatre and Intro to Theatre, while older children can advance to Acting Level 1 and Level 2. These foundational skills open doors to performance opportunities in the theater’s two signature series: the Showcase Series and the Mainstage Series.
The Showcase Series serves as a launchpad for beginners, offering a limited time commitment and a gentler introduction to performance. Children rehearse twice a week for 12 weeks, culminating in
four shows over one weekend. The Mainstage Series represents a significant step forward, with rehearsals running five days a week for six to eight weeks and ten performances over three weekends. Here, young performers hone their craft alongside experienced directors and designers, bringing ambitious plays and musicals to the stage.
For Christie and the production teams, bringing a show to life is no small feat. The process begins almost a year in advance with careful show selection balancing audience appeal, technical feasibility and opportunities for diverse roles. Rehearsals require dedication and commitment similar to that of a sports team. “Many kids call this their sport,” Christie says. And similar to sports, kids come away with skills they will use for the rest of their life. “Parents often share how their child has become more outgoing or improved their speech, calling the theatre a safe space to grow and develop life skills,” shares Christie.
Kate Poeppelman, a parent of two children who participated in Town Hall Theatre programs and a performer herself, echoed Christie’s sentiment saying, “My kids gained confidence, learned how to do hard things and found a community where they were able to just be themselves in the theatre. I’m just so grateful for this Town Hall Theatre program, all the hardworking staff who make it happen, the community vibe and the thrill when it is time for lights up.”
Town Hall Theatre’s dedication to inclusivity is especially evident in its sensory-friendly performances, an initiative Christie holds close to her heart. Designed for individuals with sensory sensitivities, these shows feature adjusted lighting, softened sounds and a judgment-free environment where audience members are encouraged to move freely and enjoy the performance at their own comfort level. It’s yet another way the theater opens its doors to everyone, fostering a space where all families feel welcome.
For those who dream of getting involved on stage or behind the scenes, Washington Twp. RecPlex offers countless Town Hall Theatre opportunities. Young actors can enroll in classes to build foundational skills before auditioning for productions, while high school students and adults can join the Mainstage productions directly. Parents and community members with talents in sewing, tech or stage management are always needed to help with costumes, microphones and set pieces. As Christie says, “More hands make light work, and we need all the help we can get!” Kate adds, “I volunteered, got to see how wonderful it all is and Towne Hall Theatre became our second home.” She was also encouraged to audition for a role in a production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. “Theater parents also make great friends with each other, so a friend of mine said, ‘I have been in shows and it’s great, do it!’ So, I took a chance and decided to give it a whirl. Plus, I get to do this with my kids and fulfill a creative outlet for me too. It’s a win-win.”
At its core, Town Hall Theatre is more than just a performance space. It’s a place where children discover their voices and the community comes together to celebrate the magic of storytelling. Whether it’s the laughter of a child in the audience, the nervous excitement of a first-time performer or the quiet pride of a parent watching their child shine, the theater’s impact is undeniable.
Experience the magic in person from February 28 through March 16 when the Town Hall Theatre presents The Wonderful Wizard of Oz . While not a musical, the production promises vibrant sets, beloved characters and familiar melodies that will tug at the heartstrings.
Follow the theatre on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content. For more information about classes, productions or volunteer opportunities offered through Washington Twp. RecPlex, visit WashingtonTwp. org/Recreation/Town_Hall_Theatre
“My kids gained confidence, learned how to do hard things and found a community…” “ ”
VALENTINE'S DAY AT home
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD & AMANDA STOUT PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
KIDS SWEET TREAT TABLE
Surprise your children for Valentine’s Day with a sweet treat table. Keep it simple with a few favorite snacks and candies, or for a more extravagant display use fresh flowers and create a handmade centerpiece. To achieve this look, start by placing the largest greenery on the bottom layer in a circle around the table. Next layer varying types of greenery on top of the first layer in shorter widths to achieve the final look. Next add mini cupcakes, chocolate-dipped Oreos and Valentine's Day cookies on cake stands or plates for an inviting table of sweets.
For added fun, why not include a hot cocoa bar with unique toppings? Dorothy Lane Market (DLM) has everything you need to make gourmet hot chocolate with your kids including unique recipes for cocoa and chocolate spoons to inspire you! Try this recipe for Strawberry White Cocoa by Chef Carrie Walters: DorothyLane.com/Recipes/StrawberryWhiteCocoa
SURPRISE YOUR CHILDREN FOR VALENTINE’S DAY WITH A sweet TREAT TABLE. KEEP IT SIMPLE WITH A FEW FAVORITE SNACKS AND CANDIES, OR FOR A MORE extravagant DISPLAY USE FRESH FLOWERS AND CREATE A HANDMADE CENTERPIECE.
VALENTINE’S TREE CENTERPIECE
To create an easy and eye-catching centerpiece, collect fallen branches and paint them white. We repurposed a white ceramic jar as a base to assemble the branches. Use floral foam or clear tape crisscrossed to stabilize the branches and place moss at the top of the jar. Create heart-shaped ornaments or heart garlands for your tree using our tips below or make your own designs to adorn your tree. You can reuse this homemade tree for any occasion by hanging different decorations from the branches.
VALENTINE’S DAY TREE DECORATIONS
Create heart ornaments to hang on your Valentine's tree centerpiece. These ornaments can be used as clue cards for a kid's Valentine's Day scavenger hunt. Instruct children to find their picture on the ornaments and hunt for the hidden treasure written on the back. We used recycled shipping boxes to create the heart base and painted them red. We then used a hole punch to create a lace-like edge. You can also make a festive garland by gluing felt hearts in pink and red to rustic twine and stringing it around your tree.
ROMANTIC DINNER FOR TWO: THE ADULT TABLE
For this look, we set the table in a nontraditional, comfortable setting—the coffee table in the living room. Layer pillows and cozy blankets on the ground for cozy seating. We used two layers of fabric for the runner and added a handmade floral arrangement as the centerpiece. To achieve this look, use a two-tier serving tray and layer flowers and stems to adorn it. Add grapes or berries to give a fuller, textured look. For a romantic ambiance, add taper candles, a bottle of wine and jazz playing in the background.
For a no hassle dinner, serve your favorite takeout meal in the comfort of your own home. Or if you love to cook together, Chef Jasper Mirabile Jr. provides his go-to pasta recipe and DLM has all of the high-quality ingredients to create this dish and many others. Don’t forget to grab some freshly baked artisan bread at the bakery!
FOR A romantic AMBIANCE, ADD TAPER CANDLES, A BOTTLE OF WINE AND jazz PLAYING IN THE BACKGROUND.
CAPELLI D’ANGELO ALLA NANNI
Ingredients
• 8 oz. Barilla Capellini
• 2 tsp. salted butter
• 4 oz. prosciutto ham
• 4 mushrooms, sliced thin
• 12 oz. of your favorite marinara sauce
• 4 oz. heavy cream
• 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes, or more for extra spice
• 4 oz. Romano cheese
• Directions
1. Cook pasta al dente according to package directions. Cooking al dente keeps pasta from getting soggy or soaking up all of the sauce.
2. Melt 2 tsp. butter in a saute pan over medium-high heat. Add prosciutto and let it crisp, then add sliced mushrooms. Saute for 2 minutes.
3. Stir in marinara sauce, heavy cream, red pepper flakes and Romano cheese. Bring to a light boil. Add cooked pasta and toss. Serve immediately.
END ON A SWEET NOTE
Enjoy some sweets with your sweetie with a decadent selection of Killer Brownies®, delicate pastries and more from DLM. If you prefer to craft some treats together, try Chef Carrie’s Easy Chocolate Truffles recipe: DorothyLane. com/Recipes/EasyChocolateTruffles
BECAUSE.
CHOCOLATE.
Chocolate Fondue
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 pound premium semisweet chocolate (recommended: Lindt or Callebaut)
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon brandy
• Strawberries, bananas, pineapple, brownies, waffles, marshmallows, Oreos, pound cake, pretzels or any other dipping item of your choice!
Put approximately four inches of water in a saucepan and bring to a slow boil. Place a mixing bowl on top and pour in the heavy cream. Let heat. Or, use a double boiler. Meanwhile, break up or chop the chocolate into small pieces. When the cream feels hot to the touch, add chocolate and whisk until smooth. Whisk in vanilla and brandy (optional). Pour into the fondue pot and light the handy fuel underneath. Keep the flame low as not to burn the fondue. Arrange dippers on a platter and enjoy. For the grown-ups, a spiked chocolate drink from our friend, Martha Stewart.
The Spiked Jones
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup whole coffee beans
• 2 ounces semisweet chocolate (61% Valrhona), chopped
• 2 tablespoons Kahlua
• 1 teaspoon confectioners’ sugar
• 1 tablespoon dark chocolatecovered coffee beans, chopped
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, 1/2 cup cream, and whole coffee beans. Bring to a simmer, turn off heat, cover, and steep beans for 1 hour. Strain liquid and return to saucepan; discard beans. Bring the milk-and-cream mixture back to a simmer, add chocolate, and whisk until incorporated. Remove from heat; whisk in Kahlua. Whip remaining 1/2 cup cream and the confectioners” sugar until soft peaks form. Divide the hot chocolate between 2 cups and garnish each portion with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkling of chopped chocolate-covered coffee beans.
ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS
When my kids were little, we would address valentines to classmates, deliver flowers to neighbors and decorate the house with hearts and snowflakes (cut from white coffee filters). For dinner, I would make their favorite meal: dessert! Why not? I'd melt chocolate (the good stuff) and let them line up their dippers. They thought dessert for dinner was magical. Of course, I'd fed them a protein-packed after-school snack and served “dinner” early so they could get their sugar wiggles out before bed. Delightful! Happy Valentine's Day!
CHOCO OLATEC LATECH
FEBRUARY 9TH
Humane Society of Dayton Epic Pet Give-a-Thon
Humane Society of Greater Dayton | 6:00 AM
Join the Humane Society of Greater Dayton’s Epic Pet Give-a-Thon on February 9 from 6 a.m.–7 p.m. Donate hourly for prize giveaways. Watch ABC 22, Fox 45 or follow on social media for prize sneak peeks and updates. Every donation saves a life! HSDayton.org/Event/The-Epic-Pet-Give-a-Thon/
FEBRUARY 13TH
Couples Dinner Date with A Starry Stroll
Grant Park, Kennard Nature Nook | 6:00 PM
Join the Centerville-Washington Park District and Eat Pretty Darling’s Katie Blauser for a romantic evening. Together, you and your date will cook a salmon dinner with salad, roasted potatoes and dessert and then enjoy a luminary-lit stroll around Grant Park. Register by February 6. Sign up one person per couple. CWPD.org/Event/Couples-Dinner-Date-With-a-Starry-Stroll/
FEBRUARY 15TH
I Wuff You Valentine Hike
Bill Yeck Park | 11:00 AM
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with your four-legged best friend and the Centerville-Washington Park District! Enjoy some quality outdoor time on a self-guided hike through Bill Yeck Park, featuring special treats along the trail and stations designed to show your pup how much they mean to you. Participants can join anytime during the program, with the last hike starting at 1:30 p.m. CWPD.org/Event/I-Wuff-You-Valentine-Hike/
FEBRUARY 20TH
Job Seekers Networking
Woodbourne Library | 6:30 PM
Is landing your dream job your New Year’s resolution? Get personalized support for your journey with monthly group sessions at the Woodbourne Library, led by six job search mentors. Receive comprehensive guidance to advance your career, including tailored assistance in refining job targets, developing effective networking strategies, optimizing your LinkedIn profile, crafting compelling resumes and exploring industry best practices. Events.WClibrary.info/Event/12190456
FEBRUARY 23RD
Dorothy Lane Market Wedding Showcase
The Loft at DLM Springboro | 11:00 AM
Make wedding planning fun with DLM at their upcoming Wedding Showcase! In addition to inspirational design ideas, there will be several vendors on site and DLM is offering wedding cake consultations to help make your dreams come true. This is truly a wedding event unlike any other, featuring stunning themes and ornate cakes designed by Love Cakes by DLM designers. DorothyLane.com/Wedding-Showcase
FEBRUARY 28TH - MARCH 16TH
Mainstage Series: The Wonderful Wizard of Oz
Town Hall Theatre | 3:00 PM
Follow the yellow brick road to Town Hall Theatre for The Wonderful Wizard of Oz! From February 28 through March 16, this enchanting Mainstage Series production brings Dorothy’s magical journey to life with unforgettable characters and timeless lessons about courage, love and friendship. Perfect for audiences of all ages, it’s a show you won’t want to miss! WashingtonTwp.org/Recreation/Town_Hall_Theatre
