Mrs. Turben shared that it is a privilege to talk about how the Oakwood Historical Society developed, evolved and flourished under the watchful eye of Mr. Ebeling. Mr. Ebeling was one of the architects who helped define who and what the society was and is today. He applied for and attained the Oakwood Historical Society’s designation as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. He believed the key to the Oakwood Historical Society’s success was education. He wrote several books about the city of Oakwood. He also impressed the importance of communication and wrote countless articles, not only for the Oakwood Historical Society, but for the Oakwood Register. In Mr. Ebeling’s memory, the Oakwood Historical Society is re-publishing a collection of articles that he wrote for the Oakwood Centennial. The articles will be consolidated into a single booklet. He established and maintained the only archival history and artifacts specifically for Oakwood. Under Mr. Ebeling’s leadership, the Oakwood Historical Society obtained a coveted spot for Schantz Park on the National Register of Historic Districts. The Long-Romspert Homestead is one of three properties in Oakwood that is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, which Mr. Ebeling supported. He encouraged the Oakwood Historical Society to partner with other organizations. Mrs. Turben shared that they are currently working with the City on a preservation database project to create a digital archive that will become a repository for historical data. The Oakwood Historical Society has also been a long-time advocate of the Wright Public Library, who is also recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. The Oakwood Historical Society partners with Wright Library on the Far Hills Speaker Series. With Mr. Ebeling’s guidance, the Oakwood Historical Society offers Walking Tours, Long-Romspert Homestead Tours for children, garden programs, and most recently a new series of programs called “Homemade at the Historical Society”. Mr. Ebeling’s legacy will continue to grow as the Oakwood Historical Society pursues new projects.
Proclamations – Mayor Duncan read a proclamation recognizing Saturday, August 11, 2018 as “Dorothy Lane Market Day” in Oakwood.
Mr. Jerry Post, Store Director for Oakwood Dorothy Lane Market, said that it has been an honor to work at the Oakwood Dorothy Lane Market for the past 26 years. He thanked City Council, City staff and the Oakwood community for their ongoing support. Mr. Post shared that there will be a 70th Anniversary Carnival at all three store locations from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, August 11. He invited people to come out and join the fun.
Mr. Norman Mayne, owner of Dorothy Lane Market, shared that is has been an honor to work with Oakwood City Council, City staff and the Oakwood community. He shared his memories of being eight years old when his family was offered the store at the corner of Dorothy Lane and Far Hills Avenue. He said that not only does the Oakwood community offer the best city services, but there are wonderful kids from solid families that have worked at DLM over the years. He closed his comments by saying that Oakwood is a treasure.
Mr. Alex West, Oakwood Dorothy Lane Market Front End Manager, shared that he has worked at Dorothy Lane Market since he was sixteen years old. Collectively, his family has worked for Dorothy Lane Market for over 40 years. He shared that it is a great place to work.
Mayor Duncan then read proclamations designating September as “Prostate Cancer Awareness Month” and “National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month”.
Dr. Sallie Wilson Luther thanked City Council and City staff, as well as Oakwood City Schools and Dorothy Lane Market for their support of the “Out of the Darkness Walk”. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention organizes nearly 400 local community walks each year to raise money and awareness for suicide prevention. The 5th annual “Out of the Darkness Dayton Walk”, in connection with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, will take place at 2 p.m. on Sunday, October 21 at the Oakwood High School. The 2017 event had over 1,100 walkers and raised about $69,000. Dr. Wilson shared that the walk is free, although fundraising is encouraged. She asked that people contact her if they are interested in volunteering or sponsorship.
Oakwood Pre-sale Property Inspection Program: Mayor Duncan shared that last month many Oakwood residents received two direct mail pieces from a group called Ohio REALTORS, which contained false information about the Oakwood pre-sale inspection program for residential properties. The Oakwood pre-sale program was established in 1968 and is especially important in a community like Oakwood, which despite its aging stock of homes, many of which are 75-100 years old, continues to be the premiere residential community in the Miami Valley. Oakwood property maintenance regulations are intended to provide for public health, safety and welfare. By ensuring the properties meet certain minimums each time they are transferred, the pre-sale inspection program helps to prevent homes from catching fire, collapsing or becoming unsightly or unsafe. City Council and City staff appreciates the numerous comments received from local realtors and citizens expressing support of this unique program to ensure that