There is a different theme each month, but each includes food, entertainment and shopping discounts. Also, each gathering provides a component that raises money for charity.
Various members of Heart of Centerville, a group comprised of downtown Centerville business owners, take part in each event.
This month, according to Heart of Centerville President Debbie Teeters, the theme is “Scavenger Hunt.”
“It will be like a ‘Where’s Waldo?’ except it will be ‘Where’s the heart?’ ” said Teeters, who owns Joli Boutique.
People can pick up a scavenger hunt card at any of this month’s participating businesses. The cards cost $5, which will be donated to Blue Star Mothers of America, an organization for mothers who have children serving or who have served in the military.
As of last week, 12 businesses were confirmed to be taking part in the scavenger hunt, including Joli Boutique, Unique Celebrations, Pieces of Style, Lorelei’s Boutique and Circa.
Shoppers who get a stamp from each business can enter their cards to win a gift basket full of items from each of the participating stores.
Last month’s event had the theme “Glam in the City,” and included a fashion show with items from downtown shops.
As part of the festivities, Heart of Centerville had the mayor and some businesses owners to the event in a limo.
“The concept was that it was kind of a glamour thing,” Mayor Mark Kingseed said. “It was a lot of fun.”
Kingseed reinforced that the idea behind Third Friday is to shine a light on downtown businesses.
“The best benefit (of the event) is to raise awareness of different opportunities for entertainment, dining and shopping in our downtown area,” Kingseed said. “Anything that supports local businesses is very important.”
Teeters, who founded Heart of Centerville eight years ago, said the group started with about 25 members and now has close to 70.
“In this day and age, this is the way to go. We work together, share ideas, market together and create our area as a true destination,” she said. “And it is coming to pass. This is the place to be.”
The final Third Friday After Hours event of this summer will be held Aug. 20. The theme is “Hot Summer in the City.”
Kathy Jablinski, who owns Unique Celebrations, and Laurie Smalley, who owns Lorelei’s Boutique, are the chairwomen of Third Friday.
For more information about the events or Heart of Centerville, visit www. heartofcenterville.com.
Contact this reporter at (937) 225-7325 or jikelley@DaytonDailyNews.com.
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