Dayton Original: Sheri Williams
The Wright brothers aren't the only Daytonians to excel at flight! Dayton native Sheri Williams soars gracefully across the dance stage, bringing abundant energy and athleticism to appreciative audiences around the globe. As a dancer with the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company for an incomparable 35 seasons, Sheri (known to many as "Sparkle") helped build the company's world-class reputation and repertoire. She has earned the JOSIE Award (an annual honor given to the brightest lights in Dayton's remarkable dance community) and the New York Dance and Performance Award (the Bessie), among other accolades. As for her hometown, Sheri appreciates that Dayton offers big-city arts quality, without big-city hassles. And this Dayton Original adds left-brain analytical power to right-brain artistic prowess, with a dual degree in systems and software engineering in progress. "Dayton is my home, and I say that proudly," Sheri sparkles. "I gravitate toward great people, and such people are clearly abundant here!"

Dayton Original: Smales Pretzel Bakery
Smales Pretzel Bakery is located in the heart of the Twin Towers neighborhood in East Dayton. This bakery has been family-owned and operated for over 100 years for an obvious reason – quality!  The Smales family has been making soft and hard Dutch oven pretzels the old fashioned way – using old world technology and old world recipes. Founded by the great grandfather of current owner Larry Smales, the bakery continues to produce some of the area's best pretzels, as well as Grandpa Chuck's homemade noodles.  For a touch of the past, pretzel lovers are welcome to visit the bakery, watch them hand-twist the pretzels, and select one hot right from the oven. Can't visit? Smales will ship anywhere. Smales is one of the tastiest Dayton Originals!

Dayton Original: Ruetschle Architects
Ruetschle Architects’ origins to the City of Dayton date back to 1940 with the firm Hart, Igleburger, Wurst. Over a 71-year span, it evolved into its current identity as a full-service firm focusing on educational, institutional, commercial, and religious architecture. In addition to boasting more than 50 design awards, Ruetschle Architects is also a regional leader on sustainable design (designed first LEED certified project in City of Dayton). They have a LEED Gold project under construction and a LEED Silver project in design. Some of the local projects the company has worked on include: EJ Brown K-8 school, the original Meadowdale High School, Dayton Christian Campus Renovation, University Hall at Wright State University, Montgomery County Juvenile Justice Center, Dayton Montgomery County Courts Building, City of Dayton's Fifth District Police Headquarters, Heapy Engineering Corporate Headquarters, Mike-Sells Potato Chip Company, and many others.

Dayton Original: Leslie Gonya
Leslie (Rosell) Gonya is a successful business owner who was born and raised in Dayton. She earned a degree in Secondary Education from the University of Dayton in 1994. Leslie is majority partner of Inn Port LLC, which is the parent company of Ideal Travel, Inn Port Guesthouse, and Inn Port D'Vino. After teaching for several years at Carroll High School, Leslie founded Ideal Travel. Leslie also operates two Bed and Breakfast properties in the Oregon District. Leslie and her husband Jeff purchased a home in the Oregon District in 2002. After a year of renovation, the original Inn Port Guesthouse opened in July 2003. After just three years of extraordinary success, a second property was purchased and Inn Port D'Vino opened its doors to guests in April 2007. With each passing year, the Inn Port reputation for first class accommodations and exceptional service has continued to grow. Guests from as near as around the corner and as far as Germany, England, Japan, and India have made Inn Port their choice for accommodations when working and playing in Dayton. From her birth at Miami Valley Hospital to her current home in the Oregon District, Leslie Gonya is a Dayton Original.

Dayton Original: Neldra Glasper
Neldra Glasper is the Director of Helping Hands Community Outreach Center, a non-profit organization she founded approximately ten years ago with one goal in mind--to help people in the community. The Center offers many services, including first-time homebuyers classes, foreclosure prevention programs, loss mitigation services, youth educational enhancement programs, economic stability classes, and human/service referrals. Because of her personal testimony, Neldra was extremely passionate about opening this Center. Instead of complaining about her situation, she decided to improve the lives of residents from Dayton and the surrounding community.

Dayton Original: Dayton Opera
The 2010-2011 Season will celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Dayton Opera, a true Dayton Original. The company currently produces three main stage operas and one Star Gala in the beautiful and acoustically perfect Marian and Benjamin Schuster Center. Dayton Opera produces "original" opera productions that add to the economic development of our community by employing local musicians, artists, chorus members, stage crew and behind-the-scenes personnel. Dayton Opera patrons support downtown restaurants and businesses. To bring our region the most promising up-and-coming singers from around the world, General and Artistic Director Thomas Bankston holds annual casting sessions in New York City. These singers leave Dayton with a flattering impression of our community, often returning for future productions. The organization makes opera accessible to everyone thru in-school educational programs for students and reduced-price seats for seniors, students and WPAFB personnel. Dayton Opera believes in collaboration with other local arts organizations to keep Dayton's arts heritage vibrant. Help celebrate 50 Years of Dayton Opera when the company opens their next season with The Gershwin's great American opera "Porgy and Bess" in October 2010.

Dayton Original: Esther Price
Voted the "Best of Ohio" chocolate company, Esther Price originated in Dayton and still uses many of the original recipes for candy-making in the original location near downtown. There is no other chocolate with the Esther Price flavor profile, and there are multi-generation employees doing the same jobs their fathers originally did at Esther Price. There's just something unique to Esther Price that keeps people coming back (or ordering on-line if they can't visit). Today, Esther Price Candies produces about one million boxes of candy per year and employs about 100 people during their peak season. The retail stores are open year-round, customers can place online orders 24 hours a day, and the wholesale department makes sure the chocolates are also readily available in Dayton-Cincinnati area grocery stores. When it comes to distinguishing yourself, you can’t be any more of a “Dayton Original” than Esther Price!

Dayton Original: Fitz Center for Leadership in Community
The Fitz Center for Leadership in Community at the University of Dayton is an addition to the long line of original Dayton innovations. No other center in the country, let alone in Dayton, puts together leadership and community building in the way the Fitz Center does. The Center's unique asset-based community development approach which focuses on relationships and shared vision achieved through adaptive leadership and balanced inquiry and advocacy has helped to bring many good things to our community. The Fitz Center's work includes Dayton's Neighborhood School Centers, the Genesis Project, CityLinks, the Rivers Institute, and the Dayton Civic Scholars. It was officially created in 2001 as the Center for Leadership in Community and renamed in 2002 for Bro. Ray Fitz, former president of the University and a Dayton Original himself, but the work that the Fitz Center continues to carry on began as early as 1974 with the Strategies for Responsible Development and 1979 with the Center for the Study of Family Development. Like the University of Dayton, the Fitz Center for Leadership in Community is in Dayton to stay.

Dayton Original: Rivers Institute at the University of Dayton
The Rivers Institute at the University of Dayton has taken on the mission of reuniting Dayton and its rivers. To accomplish this mission, the Rivers Institute brings together community members and leaders to discuss the future of Dayton's greatest natural resources - its rivers and aquifers. The Rivers Institute is unique both at UD and nationally because it is housed in the Fitz Center for Leadership in Community, making students the driving force. Finding students, faculty, administrators, and community leaders working together as part of one institute is extremely rare and thus extremely innovative and powerful.

Dayton Original: Rami Odeh
Rami Odeh, a 2009 Graduate of the University of Dayton, is flexing his entreprenuerial muscles in the Dayton region. His new business, 3 Course Delivery, is a visionary concept that embraces Dayton's legacy of innovation. With 3 Course Delivery, you can get a variety of meals delivered to your home, so you don't have to settle for "just pizza" anymore. Rami's strong commitment to the community is evidenced by his service on the executive board of the Dayton Ballet Barre. He is actively involved with Generation Dayton, an association of talented young professionals who live and work in the Dayton area. Rami is pursuing his dreams as a Dayton Original!

Dayton Original: Practice Yoga on Fifth
Practice Yoga on Fifth in the Oregon District is not the only yoga studio in downtown Dayton, but its business is driven by some of the most qualified teachers in Dayton. The instructors are experienced RYTs (Registered Yoga Teachers) certified by Yoga Alliance®, a national standards/accreditation organization, and have studied with some of the world’s leading yoga experts. They are dedicated to providing the safest, deepest, and purest form of yoga practice in the area. The philosophy of Practice Yoga is simple: Yoga makes people feel good, and the essence of yoga is practice. Practice Yoga offers a wide variety of classes and hosts special events for the yoga community. Each body, each practice is unique. Practice Yoga on Fifth is a Dayton Original!

Dayton Original: Daequan Cook
Professional basketball player Daequan Cook is a product of Paul Laurence Dunbar High School and participated in sports at Dayton's recreation centers, specifically the Northwest Recreation Center. As a junior, he led Dunbar to the Ohio Division II state semifinals. His senior year, Daequan led Dunbar to a Division II state championship! He was named onto the 2006 McDonalds All-American Team, scoring 17 points in the 112–94 win. Daequan went on to The Ohio State University, but cut his college career short to enter the 2007 NBA draft. He was selected in the first round by the Philadelphia 76ers, before ultimately finding a home with the Miami Heat. In 2009, Daequan won the NBA All-Star Weekend Three-Point Shootout in Phoenix. Daequan Cook took his game from Dayton to Miami, but he will always be a Dayton Original!

Dayton Original: Tom Keihl
As the original Appliance Doctor in Dayton, Tom Keihl represents the breed of good, honest repair people. He has been a staple in the appliance repair industry in the greater Dayton area since 1980. He takes pride in his work and satisfying his many customers. The Appliance Doctor is a proud representative of the Walnut Hills neighborhood and a Dayton Original!

Dayton Original: Ashley Cattran
Ashley Cattran is a member of the University of Dayton Women's Track and Field Team. On March 11, 2009, then sophomore Ashley's provisional 800-meter time of 2:06.37 earned her a spot in the NCAA Division I Women's Track and Field indoor championship. She became the first Flyer to ever compete for a national title in track. During her tenure at UD, in addition to the Atlantic 10 title, she competed in the USA Indoor Track and Field Championships and set six school records! Ashley broke several state records in high school prior to catapulting onto UD's track. Ashley is a pre-med student with a 4.0 GPA, proving that this Dayton Original runs circles around many of her counterparts.

Dayton Original: Jazz Central
For over three decades, Jazz Central has been the hot spot for live jazz, blues, R&B, and even rock at its East Third Street location. When Charles "Butch" Stone opened Jazz Central, his dream was to keep the spirit of jazz alive in our community for nostalgia and future generations to come. Famous names in jazz and up-and-coming entertainers have graced the stage. These include Piney Brown, the John Slate Quartet, Ronnie Diamond, Johnny Lytle, the Mario Abney Quintet, Albert Collins, the Dayton Jazz Orchestra, and of course, the Jazz Central Big Band. If only those walls could talk! This Dayton Original has been home to the greatest live entertainment in the region!

Dayton Original: Winter Guard International Sport of the Arts
Winter Guard International (WGI) Sport of the Arts is the world's premier organization producing indoor color guard and percussion ensemble competitions. A non-profit youth organization, WGI serves as the leading governing body of the winter guard and indoor percussion activities. It is called the "Sport of the Arts" because it brings music to life through performance in a competitive format. WGI is big business for Dayton and important to our economic vitality. Annually, over two weekends in April, WGI hosts the Color Guard World Championships and Percussion World Championships which bring nearly 40,000 people into the Greater Dayton area generating approximately $15 million in economic impact. The Championships bring young competitors (high school age-30 years), their families, and friends from across the nation and literally all over the world to Dayton. And, because WGI has its beginning roots in Dayton, there is a concentration of very strong WGI units here. Local high schools such as Kettering, Centerville, Springboro, Miamisburg, Northmont, Bellbrook, and Carroll are strong competitors in the Color Guard and Percussion competitions. WGI participants fill area hotels, restaurants, and retail outlets during the April competitions. The World Championships also utilize a variety of meeting venues ranging from the Dayton Convention Center, Trent Arena, Nutter Center, University of Dayton Arena, and numerous high school and collegiate gyms throughout the community. WGI has made a commitment to our community, and in late 2002 WGI moved their world headquarters to Dayton. They have also committed to hosting their World Championships in Dayton through 2014, even though they were heavily wooed by Indianapolis. Of the 33 years of competition, 2010 will mark the 24th year they've met in Dayton. WGI is a Dayton Original!

Dayton Original: Hamilton Dixon
Local metal sculptor Hamilton Dixon has his artwork displayed at various Dayton locations, including popular destinations like Pacchia’s, a Dayton Art Institute railing, and most recently, the Dayton International Airport.  His metal railing installation in the Airport’s Boston Stoker Coffee shop runs 30 feet in length, and it swoops and bows at a variety of heights and depths, complete with hand-forged interior components that seem to reflect an “Earth meets Sky” theme. The forging process Dixon uses is similar to that of an old-world blacksmith.  He begins his process with sticks of mild steel bar, either squared or round, and then places them in a forge until they are red-hot.  He then manually removes the heated stick, and with hammer and anvil, hand-forges the steel into its intended shape.  Each and every element of this one-of-a-kind railing was hand-forged by the artist.  Hamilton Dixon epitomizes Dayton Original.

Dayton Original: Urban Krag
A few years ago, the remnants of the Deutsche Evangelical Reform Church stood useless in the Oregon District. Despite its grand past, and over 5,000 Sunday services, its doors had been closed for years and it was slated for demolition. When experienced rock climber Karl Williamson happened upon the property at 125 Clay Street, he immediately thought it was a great place to construct an Urban Krag – a rock climbing wall. Williamson had been searching for over eight months for a place to create the next big indoor rock climbing facility, and the old church provided all the space necessary. Williamson’s passion and hard work, coupled with that of property owner Tim Patterson, resulted in the creation of Ohio’s premier indoor rock climbing facility. Featuring 8,000 feet of textured terrain and heights ranging from 28 to 56 feet, the Urban Krag is truly a Dayton Original.  Watch a brief video about the Urban Krag.

Dayton Original: Brother Raymond L. Fitz, University of Dayton
Brother Ray Fitz is a pillar of the Dayton community. Brother Ray first made his mark on the community when he was named president of the University of Dayton in 1979, a position he held for 23 years, making him the longest-serving president in UD’s history.  Brother Ray was instrumental in solidifying and expanding UD’s stature as one of the most distinguished Catholic universities in the country. He laid the foundation for the tremendous growth and success the university continues to enjoy today.
           
Brother Ray is the first Ferree Professor of Social Justice at the University of Dayton, where he teaches courses and coordinates community outreach efforts through the Fitz Center for Leadership in Community. Within the Dayton region, Brother Ray continues to  provide leadership through involvement on the Dayton Public Schools Assessment Committee, Preventing Homelessness Committee of the Homeless Solutions Policy Board, Greater Dayton Commission on Minority Inclusion, and the Catholic Education Collaborative.

Because of his remarkable commitment both to education and social justice, Brother Ray Fitz is truly a Dayton Original!

Dayton Original: Sean and Shawntay Fields
Sean and Shawntay Fields are the owners of Comtactics, a full-service marketing communications company located in downtown Dayton. This husband and wife team have been highlighted by major media outlets around the country, including Black Enterprise Magazine. Their strong commitment to the city is evident in all that they do. They work tirelessly to educate small business owners in the City of Dayton about social media and the power of the Internet. They are always willing to collaborate to assist others in learning ways to reach their markets. Their dedication and willingness to help others make them a great resource for the Dayton community. This couple is the essence of Dayton Original. Their innovative style is unmatched in the city!

Dayton Original: Queen Lynn B.
Queen Lynn B. is a motivational speaker, community advocate, and creator of 2 Young 2 Die - Dayton, which represents victims of violent, incidental, and accidental deaths in the Dayton area. Since 1996, Queen Lynn B. has been actively promoting non-violence, and often speaks at the home going celebrations and memorial services for victims of violence. Queen Lynn B. strives to see Dayton as the birthplace of the new nonviolent movement. It is her hope that peace and harmony begin in Dayton's neighborhoods.

Dayton Original: Jessica Goings
Jessica Goings is a hard working stay-at-home mom who often helps those in need. Although she has two disabled children to care for, she finds the time to put a smile on the face of many in her southeast Dayton neighborood. She devotes countless hours volunteering with her church. Jessica is a prime example that many Dayton Originals silently weave threads of kindness into the community fabric.

Dayton Original: Darryl Bohannon aka Ms. Demure
Most people have an idea or dream that they pursue briefly and then let go. Not Darryl Bohannon. His alter-ego, Ms. Demure, has offered comedy, grace and couture to our community for years through his cable access show "Harpers Bazzaroworld Presents The Ms. Demure Show," which many consider a local "cult classic." Darryl works tirelessly to make viewers’ lives a little brighter. He is a fiercely loyal Daytonian and can always be seen at local events, sharing his talents with others, and always laughing. Darryl is truly an "original."

Dayton Original: Mulligan Stew Academy
If you can remember, there was a time when a "good day care facility" was either too expensive, too far away or just totally unheard of in the late 60's, early 70's. For a minority owned and operated Dayton Care Center/School to have survived nearly 35 years is commendable. Mulligan Stew Academy has done just that! With a staff devoted to teaching and making a difference in the lives of students, Mulligan Stew Academy provides an excellent educational foundation for children in grades K-5. Their young minds are molded and their spirits are energized through the efforts of Carolyn Young and her family. Many of the young people who are doing great and wonderful things today had their start at Mulligan Stew.

Dayton Original: Litehouse 'Green' Homes
Dayton is going green! Litehouse Living, a Dayton-based collaborative is currently building green homes in Montgomery County. The three-story townhomes with garages feature green materials, energy efficiency, low water use, and amenities such as rooftop or terrace gardens. Townhomes are being built for the Canal Block Project, on Patterson near First Street, and the newest community will be in the Fairgrounds neighborhood, near Miami Valley Hospital and the University of Dayton. Special mortgage rates will be offered to qualified buyers, and down payment assistance may be available.

Dayton Original: CODE Credit Union
In 2010, CODE Credit Union will have served Dayton for 70 years. Originally named the "City of Dayton Employee" (CODE) Credit Union, the name was changed when membership was opened to all Dayton area residents. Currently CODE Credit Union is open for membership to all who live, go to school, work or worship in Montgomery, Preble, Darke or Miami Counties. CODE Credit Union services over 130 area employers.

Dayton Original: Miami Valley Hospital
Miami Valley Hospital is known as "the Region's Leader" for good reason: it serves the people of the Dayton area with the only local Level 1 trauma center, the only high-risk obstetrics and perinatal center in the same facility, the only adult burn center, the only organ transplant center, the only air ambulance service, the only comprehensive gynecological oncology program, and the only bone and marrow transplant unit. The hospital is served by more than 5,000 employees and 1,100 physicians in 50 primary and specialty medical practice areas. Miami Valley holds Magnet Status in nursing and is a 2009 recipient of the HealthGrades Distinguished Hospital Award for Clinical Excellence, placing it among the top five percent of the hospitals in the United States. MVH has been a Dayton Original since 1890.

Dayton Original: Lion Apparel
Lion Apparel is a true Dayton Original. In 1898, the Lapedes family began selling clothing and dry goods to farmers around the Dayton area from a wagon. In the early 1900s, they opened the Lion store downtown on Jefferson Street and began selling men's clothing. Over time the business evolved to selling service station and other types of uniforms. Now Lion Apparel is focused on personal protective equipment and services for first responders such as fire, police, EMS and military personnel around the world. Lion is now the world's largest supplier of structural fire fighting clothing. They are the industry leading innovator and continue to develop groundbreaking products and service offerings. Still family owned and operated with its world headquarters in Dayton, Lion has global customers and outfits seven of the top ten largest fire departments in the United States. Lion Apparel is certainly worthy of this distinction as a true Dayton Original!

Dayton Original: Westminster Presbyterian Church
Westminster is the present day descendant of Dayton's first church, organized in 1799 by the Washington Presbytery of the Synod of Kentucky. Originally it was named First Presbyterian Church. Worshiping in a small log cabin in the heart of what would later become the downtown, the congregation began with ten people. The church grew until 1838, when the "New School-Old School Controversy," a dispute regarding slavery, caused 72 of its 187 members to leave and form, as New School adherents, The Third Street Presbyterian Church. The pastor who preached at Abraham Lincoln's funeral, The Reverend Phineas Gurley, served First Church in Dayton from 1849 to 1854. For 81 years the two churches, only a city block apart, maintained their separate congregations. In 1919, however, their differences long forgotten, the two churches were reunited to become a congregation of 1,146 members. They had a vision of creating more than just a church. They also launched a Choir College and chose the name Westminster both for the church and the Choir College.

Dayton Original: Good Samaritan Hospital
Good Samaritan Hospital has been keeping the beat of Dayton residents alive for over 50 years. Since its founding by the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati in 1932, GSH has been providing healthcare to the city of Dayton with over 600 physicians and 3,000 employees. The 577-bed hospital handles 20,000 inpatient admissions and 450,000 outpatient visits annually and has been awarded more gold seal certifications from the Joint Commission than any hospital in Ohio. Heart care at Good Sam has had many "firsts" in Dayton, including the first open heart surgery and the first cardiac care unit in the area. Good Sam is continuing the tradition of being first and cutting edge for Dayton with the building of the Dayton Heart and Vascular Hospital, set to be completed at the end of 2009. Located on the Good Samaritan Hospital campus, the new Heart and Vascular Hospital combines advanced equipment and technology with board-certified staff to give patients the best care possible. With 75,000 square feet of patient rooms, operating areas, and diagnostic testing areas, the new facility will be the largest cardiovascular facility in Dayton.

Dayton Original: Marion's Piazza
Founded in 1965 and headquartered in Dayton, Marion's Piazza is a Dayton landmark, a tradition for Dayton area residents, and uniquely a Dayton touchstone for former residents returning for visits to Dayton. Marion's is not only a local enterprise, but also an independent one with just seven Dayton area locations. It's a great place to eat that is not part of a "chain." Marion’s Piazza has been voted the Dayton Area’s “Best Pizza” in 25 local surveys of newspaper and magazine readers! Marion's sponsored the "Kenley Players" in Dayton and its restaurants herald the creative and successful theatrical collaborations through displays of autographed photos of the stars it attracted to perform in Dayton for nearly three decades. Though Marion's may not be as old or as large as many other Dayton Originals, it is just as well-known as a uniquely Daytonian destination and experience.

Dayton Original: Paul Laurence Dunbar Java, Jazz & Poetry Series
The Paul Laurence Dunbar Java, Jazz and Poetry Series is an annual event held to showcase new and emerging talent in Dayton and the surrounding communities, while at the same time, raise funds for local arts organizations. Named for a Dayton Original and Harlem Renaissance poet, Paul Laurence Dunbar, this event recreates an urban renaissance, bringing together jazz musicians, singers, poets, and artists for a unique collaboration. The event occurs the third Fridays of October, November, and December each year. The Paul Laurence Dunbar Java, Jazz and Poetry Series is a prominent thread in Dayton's arts and entertainment fabric.

Dayton Original: Merle F. Wilberding
Merle Wilberding is a business lawyer and partner for one of Dayton's oldest and largest Dayton-based law firms, Coolidge Wall. Merle is an author of many books and publications as well as a community volunteer. Five years ago, Merle decided that he wanted to embrace the true spirit of Dayton, so he sold his suburban home and moved to the city of Dayton. His new location allows him to walk to his favorite restaurant (The Pine Club) and his downtown Dayton office. He is now also in walking distance to his favorite entertainment and recreation venues, including the Dayton Dragons. Merle has an extensive background that would allow him to live, work, and play anywhere, yet he prefers to embrace the contagious spirit of Dayton!

Dayton Original: Leslie Sheward
As the 2009 President of the Twin Towers Neighborhood Association, Leslie Sheward is leading residents to think and do things for themselves. Teams have been organized to mow vacant lots within the neighborhood, freeing up City workers from doing these tasks. Litter teams work to educate the youth and adults to take pride in the community. The Neighborhood Association focuses on Xenia Avenue as their Adopt-an-Area project. Residents have worked with Montgomery County to obtain the “Litter Cleanup” trailer, and they have sponsored mini alley cleanups. Leslie works in the community an average of 30 hours per week and is willing to help anyone in need.

Dayton Original: Vanisa Turney
Vanisa Turney, born and reared in Dayton, graduated from Belmont High School in 2000. After graduation, she attended Wright State University on a full academic scholarship, where she earned a bachelors and masters degree in Middle Childhood Education. Currently, she is enrolled in the curriculum and instruction program at the University of Dayton, and plans to obtain a doctorate certificate in Educational Leadership. Vanisa has a strong and positive connection with the students she works with. Even though she is a young teacher, her skills and accomplishments are impressive. She is well respected by her colleagues, students, and parents. The scores her students have obtained on the Ohio Achievement Test prove that Vanisa is truly original and has a compassion for the field in which she works. Vanisa reflects the spirit of the "Dayton Patented: Originals Wanted" campaign.

Dayton Original: Bill Furst Florist and Garden Center
Furst Florist has been part of the Dayton community since 1905, serving as Dayton's oldest florist. Furst Florist has always been owned by the Furst Family, with the fifth generation now operating the business. The flower shop is an anchor in Old North Dayton, having always been located at 1306 Troy Street. There are plenty of heartfelf memories attached to the Furst Florist history with the City of Dayton. Furst is a proud part of Dayton’s Legacy!

Dayton Originals: Mike Osgood and Art Nabinger
In the last 25 years, the Huffman Historic District has progressed from being partially rundown to one of the truly great historic neighborhoods in the Dayton area. Mike Osgood was one of the first people to see the neighborhood’s potential, and he opened many others to the same vision. Art Nabinger was one of the early "move-ins" in the newly expanding preservation effort and has since become one of the leaders.  He deserves much credit for revitalization efforts in the neighborhood in recent years and for the present quality of the neighborhood. Mike and Art are two truly unsung heroes in Dayton, and it is through their and other's passion and tireless dedication that Dayton will continue and thrive.

Dayton Original: Civitan of Dayton
Although the Civitan Club is over 85 years old and is one of the oldest civic clubs in Dayton, it is little recognized. Its membership is small (under 20), but its contributions to the community are out of proportion to its membership. Civitan members serve on the boards of the George Foster Home, Building Bridges, United Rehabiliation Services, and other civic and fraternal groups. Each year, the Civitan Club provides landscapping assistance to the George Foster Home and takes the boys to the Dragons games. The Duck Regata, a United Rehabilitation Services event, is one of many pet projects. The Civitan Club contributes regularly to Daybreak, Salvation Army, and the Red Cross. In addition, they donate valuable time and resources to the Junior Achievement and the World of Learning School. The Club has been awarded the Southern Christian Leadership Conference Dayton Chapter's Martin Luther King award for distinguished service to humanity.

Dayton Original: The Lorenz Corporation
Founded in 1890 by E.S. Lorenz and currently in its fifth generation, The Lorenz Corporation is one of the leading publishers of religious and educational music and has been justifiably proud of its record of service to the churches and schools of the United States, Canada, and countries around the world. They are a rare company that has the passion and creativity of an independent press yet the reach of a major publisher. The Lorenz Corporation is committed to recruiting, developing, and retaining the best talent in the industry, while cultivating an entrepreneurial spirit in their employees. The corporation's learning and development programs begin at the entry level and continue through to senior management. Reiff Lorenz, CEO, ensures this is not just a statement, but carried out through career development plans. "Without our team and their innovation and skills, we have no business," states Mr. Lorenz. "This is why our company is committed to developing our talent to its maximum potential and provides competitive compensation and benefits. Our people are our greatest asset." In recent years, the company has experienced high growth, providing many opportunities for employees. The employees are part of a family-owned business that has continued to grow and expand in many areas for over 100 years because of this ability to adapt to our changing world. What has never changed, however, is the company's continued commitment to producing quality products for musicians and educators. The Lorenz Corporation is proud to be a Dayton Original!

Dayton Original: Timothy R. Gaffney
Timothy R. Gaffney created AviationDayton.com, a free online news and information service about all forms of aviation in the 12-county Dayton region, from aviation heritage to aerospace technology and defense. AviationDayton is free to the public and requires no registration. Tim, a Dayton native, is a retired Dayton Daily News aviation writer. Tim is on the boards of the Dayton Air Show, the National Aviation Heritage Area (NAHA), and the Wright "B" Flyer.

Dayton Original: Jim Tarjeft
Artist and downtown resident Jim Tarjeft brings Dayton's spirit of creativity and innovation to his work and community projects. A communicator of ideas who began storytelling and entertaining by "talking very fast while exaggerating," Tarjeft has used his powers of persuasion and collaboration to help found and manage two artist cooperatives. Tarjeft appreciates Dayton's rich legacy of invention and believes there is much more to come. "Culturally, Dayton is fertile soil with a long history of people who have impacted the world," he says. "Dayton has a wide spectrum of possibility and potential. It is the environment that has made me what I am and I love it!" Tarjeft also works in Dayton's growing advanced manufacturing industry, as a controls engineer.

Dayton Original: Stivers School for the Arts
Stivers School for the Arts has been called the "Crown Jewel" of the Dayton Public School System. Stivers has been acknowledged as a school of excellence and a school of promise (no gap in ahcievement between race or gender). Despite the fact that more than 90 percent of Stivers students are considered economically disadvantaged, it is recognized as one of the Top High Schools in the country by U.S. News and World Report. Stivers offers programs in eight arts magnet areas: music (band, orchestra, piano, choir), dance, creative writing, theater and visual arts, as well as a full range of college preparatory academics. Special features of the Stivers programming include weekly individualized instruction, special seminars, master classes, and extensive opportunities for performance and creative expression.

Dayton Original: George A. Mikalauskas
For more than 50 years, Dayton's own George A. Mikalauskas has created Lithuanian inspired religious works in wood. Examples of his craftsmanship were displayed during the Lithuanian folk art exhibit, “The Passion in Wood and Straw, April 1-May 12, 2006,” in the Marian Library Gallery on the campus of the University of Dayton.The pieces (crafted from oak, walnut, butternut, cherry, pine, coffee wood, and linden wood) range in size from 3 inches to huge, ornate wayside shrines capping 16 feet tall. Born in Dayton to Lithuanian parents, Mr. Mikalauskas continues the arts of his ancestors, incorporating traditional Lithuanian designs and symbols into his handcrafted and carved crosses. Eight large wayside shrines have been erected across Dayton's landscape, as well as in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania; Kearney, New Jersey; New York, New York; and even Lithuania's own Hill of Crosses. His crosses represent themes of hope, love, peace, and forgiveness. Two of them recall his visits to the cities of Neringa and Palenga on the Baltic Sea of Lithuania.

Dayton Original: Ombudsman Office
The Dayton and Montgomery County Ombudsman Office was founded in 1971 through a collaborative initiative of the Montgomery County Commissioners, the City of Dayton Commissioners, and the Dayton Board of Education. The model of one Ombudsman Office serving the citizens of multiple jurisdictions is unique, and there is no other Ombudsman Office in the world with a similar structure, truly making this office a Dayton Original! The inclusion of the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program in the Ombudsman Office further expands the ability of the staff to resolve problems of residents of nursing homes, assisted living, and adult care facilities, as well as individuals receiving care in their private homes. The staff of the Ombudsman Office assists citizens of Montgomery County with concerns and complaints about government programs and services, and intervenes on behalf of those receiving long term care services. Their services are free and easily accessible, and participation of volunteers in all of the programs is welcomed. The longstanding existence of this office is truly a gift from the elected officials to their citizens - an innovative place where citizens' complaints and concerns can be heard and resolved.

Dayton Original: Eric Pierce
As a student attending Dayton Public School Valerie Elementary, Eric Pierce has already begun putting his talents and creativity to use at a young age. Inspired by the need to assist his grandparents, Eric ended up creating three award winning inventions:  the Chandelier Bulb Changer, a Salt & Pepper Passer, and the Yoke Hassock Footwarmer. Eric’s hard work and innovation even landed him a spot on the Ellen DeGeneres Show, as a featured guest to showcase his Salt & Pepper invention. This young man is successfully carrying the creative torch that has helped light Dayton’s innovative history.

Dayton Original: Boy Scouts of America, Troop #30
Troop #30 is the oldest African American Boy Scout Troop in Dayton, and one of the oldest in Ohio, continually providing service to the Dayton area since 1920. Some of the troop's service project include “Scouting for Food,” decoration of graves at the Dayton Veterans Medical Center Cemetery for Veteran's Day, assisting with community cleanups, and more. Members are called upon monthly for presentation of the colors at ceremonies and events in west Dayton and other communities. Troop #30 continues to be a beacon of light for generations of boys in the Dayton area.

Dayton Original: James Paul Browning
Paul Browning is a research engineer, urban activist, and loving husband. Paul has a pioneering, committed spirit that is the embodiment of a Dayton Original. Born and raised in Dayton, Paul has Bachelor's and Master's degrees in electrical engineering from the University of Dayton. At age 28, Paul has become an expert in radar technology. He currently works in the Sensors Directorate at the Air Force Research Labs, WPAFB. Paul travels widely for his work and is a member of several national and international panels. Paul is an urban advocate, and currently serves on the Historic South Park executive board. Paul has a tremendous amount of pride in his city and considers himself to be a "Flyer Fanatic." Paul shares a restored Victorian, the Cappel House, with his wife Hilary.

Dayton Original: Jonah Bull House
The Jonah Bull House at 2233 Wayne Avenue was built in 1872 in the Italianate architectural style.  This style was derived from countryside homes in Italy.  Sometime between 1920 and 1950 the Bull house was renovated to fit the classically inspired Colonial Revival style. The renovations added colonial features such as decorative interior moldings and plasterwork, a porch, and a large multi-panned window. Because of its local architectural and historical significance, The Bull House was added to the National Register in December of 2008.