Dayton, Ohio Events

Just a short drive southwest of Dayton, Germantown MetroPark feels like a true backcountry escape. With wooded hills, open meadows, wetlands, and the clear waters of Twin Creek, it’s a favorite spot for hikers, campers, and anyone looking to unplug in nature.

🌟 Park Highlights

🚶 Things to Do

• Hike the loops: Choose from shorter family-friendly circuits or longer ridge and creek trails.
• Explore the nature center area: Learn about local wildlife, habitats, and conservation.
• Picnic & relax: Use picnic areas and open fields for a slow afternoon outdoors.
• Connect to the TVT: Ambitious hikers can follow the Twin Valley Trail toward Twin Creek MetroPark for an all-day adventure.
• Watch the seasons change: Spring wildflowers, lush summer greens, and rich fall color all shine here.

🧭 Visitor Tips

• Wear sturdy shoes—some trails are uneven, with roots, rocks, and occasional mud.
• Bring water and a snack if you’re planning longer loops or exploring the Twin Valley Trail.
• Leashed dogs are welcome; please pack out pet waste.
• Arrive early on nice weekends for easier parking and quieter trails.
• Download or snap a photo of the trail map at the kiosk before you head out.

Best seasons: spring for wildflowers and flowing creeks, fall for colorful foliage and crisp hiking weather.

This comforting Tuscan-style chicken is baked in a creamy sauce with spinach, garlic, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes. It’s warm, rich, and absolutely perfect for early winter weather in the Dayton area. Serve it with pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread for an easy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt & 1/4 tsp pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3/4 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• Optional: red pepper flakes for a touch of heat

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Place in the baking dish.
3. In a bowl, whisk together cream, garlic, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes.
4. Pour the sauce over the chicken and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Stir in fresh spinach, place back in the warm oven for 2–3 minutes until wilted.
6. Serve hot with pasta, rice, potatoes, or crusty bread.

Rich, creamy, and full of flavor — a perfect comfort dish as temperatures drop in the Miami Valley.

December is here, and with it comes colder weather, holiday decorating, and more time spent indoors. These quick home tips will help your home feel warmer, safer, and more organized as we head into the heart of winter in the Dayton area.

🎄 1. Replace Worn Holiday Light Strings

• Check for cracked wires, loose bulbs, or frayed cords before hanging lights.
• Use LED lights for cooler, safer, and more energy-efficient decorating.
• Set timers so outdoor lights turn on/off automatically.

🔥 2. Test Your Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors

• Holiday cooking and increased heater use make this a crucial safety step.
• Replace batteries if it's been more than six months.
• If alarms are older than 10 years, replace them entirely.

🧣 3. Warm Up Drafty Rooms

• Use draft stoppers under doors and thermal curtains on windows.
• Move furniture away from vents to improve airflow.
• Seal small gaps around windows with removable putty or clear film.

🧹 4. Do a “Holiday Refresh Clean”

• Focus on main spaces guests notice: entryway, living room, kitchen.
• Dust vents, fan blades, and stair rails — these collect quickly in winter.
• Wash throw blankets and pillow covers for a fresh, cozy feel.

🧊 5. Prep for Sudden Temperature Drops

• Know where your main water shutoff valve is (in case of frozen pipes).
• Let a trickle of water run overnight if temps dip below 15°F.
• Wrap exposed pipes in unheated areas like garages or basements.

A little early-month prep goes a long way toward a safer, warmer, and more joyful December at home.