Dayton resident Shelley Hulce led the charge to get a portion of East First Street from North Patterson Boulevard to Sears Street named “Mick Montgomery Way.”
The bar Montgomery owned near the intersection for 32 years was like home to music lovers, she said.
Battling health troubles, Montgomery sold the well-known music venue he founded and operated at 308 E. First St. last spring to South Park Tavern owner Bill Daniels.
Montgomery is no longer associated with the business now named Canal Public House.
“Everybody’s heart sunk when the Canal Street sign was taken down,” Hulce said. “Here was where I found my voice. This is where I lived for my entire adult life.”
She likened going by the building to a person driving by his or her childhood home once their parents have moved.
“You have this displaced grief,” she said. “You drive by there, but you know it it not your place anymore.”
With the support of most of the business owners and residents in the area, Hulce petitioned the city last spring for the tribute to Montgomery.
“Bill Daniels was the first to sign he petition and say ‘yes,’ ” Hulce said.
Her petition was approved by Dayton commissioners June 25 , and Mick Montgomery Way signs were recently hung.
The recognition will expire in two years. Hulce said she will likely reapply.
Montgomery will be present with a copy of the sign during the dedication Sunday — and there will be music.
A family-friendly potluck and “hootenanny party” will follow at The “Old” Yellow Cab Company, 700 E. Fourth St., Dayton.
Contact this blogger at arobinson@DaytonDailyNews.com or Twitter.com/DDNSmartMouth
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